First of all, we are here to debate the bill. It does not call for the Prime Minister to issue another apology in the House. The bill aims to recognize the injustice done to Italian Canadians.
Moreover, there is no rule that says apologies must always be extended in the House. Two years ago, Prime Minister Harper issued a formal apology for the way in which Maher Arar was treated. That apology was not made in the House of Commons. Other governments have acted in a similar manner.
It's important to point out that the Prime Minister of Canada has already apologized on behalf of the people and Government of Canada. I can understand that some may be frustrated with the fact that the apology was not made by a Liberal prime minister. I'm sorry for Ms. Minna that a Liberal prime minister refused to take this step before Mr. Mulroney did, but that's what happened. In my opinion, it's important to learn from our past mistakes, as Mr. Mulroney did.