I read a study done by the Canadian Association of Petroleum Producers that gave a three-year analysis of the impact of what I might call the entirety of tax breaks given to oil companies. In 2005, those tax breaks accounted for more than $5 billion. In 2008, they will account for $2,362 billion. Oil companies receive large gifts on a yearly basis. I think that such a measure is somewhat unreasonable, considering the strong position of the industry. I find this hard to explain to the constituents in my riding.
On June 11th, 2007. See this statement in context.