In Quebec, there is a certificate system for legal aid. No matter how many hours are involved, a set amount is provided. Earlier, the Hon. Sue Barnes said that in Ontario, the legal aid deficit was around $10 million. Do you know how it works in Ontario? In that province, there's an hourly system, whereas in Quebec, there's a certificate system, which is completely different. Lawyers in Quebec earn less than lawyers in Ontario. Might that explain in part the $10 million deficit? If we were to operate the way they do in Ontario, you would owe us $10 million.
On October 18th, 2006. See this statement in context.