The simple answer is that it stems from a close relationship between the cooperative sector and the government. The sector has a direct relationship and an ongoing dialogue with government officials, so that rules can be adapted swiftly in response to cooperatives' needs.
As for Quebec, it has a long history of cooperative development. Earlier I mentioned that Desjardins Group was celebrating 112 years in business. But beyond that, we have an ongoing dialogue with the government, and a perfect example of what that exchange can do is our newly acquired ability to issue capital shares. You need to consult with the government and the department, as well as the regulatory authorities.
The same applies to the protection of the cooperatives' reserve, since a cooperative's reserve cannot be shared in Quebec. What that means is control of those assets, which have accumulated over time, cannot simply be handed over to private financial interests, new members, newcomers or the cooperative's executives overnight.
What that does is ensure the stability and continuity of the entire cooperative movement. I would say those are the two main features. Since the issue is now under federal consideration, it should also influence property and casualty insurance mutuals, and—as far as the potential for cooperative bank development goes—even federal credit cooperatives. The issue of reserve protection will also have to be examined in that regard.