I am always happy to have the last word. I just wanted to clarify one point. I heard Mr. Lake say, on behalf of the Conservative Party, that, if we adopted this measure, there would be less money for social programs. That it is a choice we are making. But Mr. Lake's comment contradicts his government's plan to set up a Crown Corporation to administer a stand-alone employment insurance fund in order to ensure that money is not misappropriated. His argument does not, therefore, make any sense.
It is essentially a question of political and social ideology. This is something that we have already seen with the daycare program. A daycare program was getting off the ground across Canada, but the Conservatives chose to abandon it. That illustrates the sort of choice that they make. And they are entitled to make decisions as they see fit, Mr. Chairman. Our choices give expression to our values. What are the values that define them? Will they be remembered for their humanitarian values and their desire to help those who are currently paying premiums should they one day lose their job? Or will they be remembered for their pro-nuclear, pro-war, pro-oil company values? That is their right. However, those who vote for the Conservatives have to know who they are voting into power.
To my mind, Bill C-265 gives us the opportunity to improve the lives of workers using their own money. In doing so, we also help employers, as such measures often allow for a skilled workforce to remain close to businesses that have to lay off staff temporarily. That is something else that should not be overlooked.
That is the rationale behind my amendment and it reflects the spirit of the bill. I would once again urge my colleagues to vote in favour of the amendment.