I'll first address the issue of pay equity. I know that the honourable member knows that I am not the lead on pay equity. You are more than welcome to invite Minister Toews to have a conversation about that. He is in charge of the collective bargaining process, and he is the lead on the legislation.
What I think is really important to point out is that it's time for a more modern approach. It is time for a proactive approach, and that is exactly what we intend to do. As to any suggestion that we don't have women and their best interests at heart in this process, I dare someone to suggest that, because we do have women's best interests at heart.
The last settlement took 15 years, and it was in 1999. Women are waiting 15 years, 10 years, to receive pay equity. I think it's important to note that the Supreme Court ruled and said that the fundamental right to collective bargaining is a fundamental human right, as well. Why wouldn't we negotiate at the front end as to what women should be paid from the very beginning going forward?
What I heard from women is that they want a more modern approach, and they'd like us to proceed with this, and we will proceed with this. If you want further conversations about this piece of legislation, I strongly urge you to speak with Minister Toews. I know that he'd be more than happy to talk to you about the progress we will be making on that.