Yes, Madam Speaker. First, I would like to set the record straight. I was in this House and I did not speak in this debate.
Second, I think you were aware, as you were given the names of the speakers in this debate, that we were going to rise. Reform members had also given notice that they would rise.
I do not intend to continue and stir up a dispute. What you must realize, regarding our mutual co-operation in this debate, is that we in the Bloc did not quite understand the meaning of your announcement. This is why we are asking you to exercise your authority and your good judgment. We misinterpreted your remarks.
So if in the future we in the Bloc must alter our relationship regarding this co-operation, you must tell us clearly that sometimes you cannot make use of your good judgment to allow the debate to go on. And I think the party in power should consider that what is important in this part of House proceedings is to allow members to speak to get through the whole process in a democratic fashion. That is basically why we make speeches. It is a matter of democracy.
And if the party in power wants to muzzle us this morning, knowing full well that we had members ready to speak, Madam Speaker, I call on your good judgment and ask you for a ruling.