I want to reassure the provinces once again that we enjoy working with them.
The public is viewing that we have seen a trend, unfortunately, with many of the provinces not even using a growth indicator similar to the federal government's. In fact, the federal government has been increasing spending in the area of health by 6% every year.
In 2012, when we look at the provinces and territories, their increased growth was only 3.8%. In fact, in my home province of Manitoba, where we have an NDP government, increased health care spending by only 1.7%, when the federal government was giving them 6% increases every year. This coming year, according to their budget, they will spend only 4.5% in growth, while also charging extra for PST.
I have to say that I would like to see the provinces do their fair share. On this side of the House, we are providing more than our fair share, but we can only spend what is made, which is why it will go eventually to match what the economy is bringing in. That is fiscal responsibility. That is leadership. That is what is required to protect our children and our grandchildren from further and further debt in the future.
Thank you.