Mr. Speaker, if there are specific programs or steps in place in the province of Quebec that touch upon the issues I have covered in my speech, I would be happy if the hon. member would let me have the particulars. I am not sure what programs in particular he is referring to, but I would be happy to give my assurance to work in collaboration with local authorities as we will across the country.
I recognize that crime prevention in particular will only work if it is driven at the local and community levels. It is for that reason that the municipalities and community groups are going to have a role of prominence in crime prevention.
The federal role must surely be one of leadership and co-ordination. This is the approach we are going to take, enabling communities across the country to work together.
The hon. member asked about funding for shelters and transition houses for spouses who are abused. Even in this fiscally challenging time this government is going to stand by the commitment it made in the campaign to provide that additional funding.
I do not have dollar amounts which I can give the hon. member today. I can say how it will be spent will be determined in consultation with the provinces and the local authorities and community groups which may know best how most value can be received for the money.
I do not have the dollar amounts at this point but I can tell the hon. member the commitment remains and as to where the money will go we will determine that in consultation with the groups we intend to benefit.