Mr. Speaker, there are rare occasions in the history of a nation when fate opens up a window of opportunity that can change the course of a country forever. Such an opportunity now exists.
The referendum process and subsequent results show Quebec to be a province that is deeply divided and have highlighted the intense desire for all provinces to deal with the problems that affect us all.
We must seize the opportunity now to move ahead to decentralize federal powers. The people must also be allowed to choose their representatives in the Senate and in the Supreme Court. However, let there be no mistake. These changes must occur for all provinces because when preferential treatment is afforded to one province over another it only creates divisions and resentment.
We must move ahead. The time now is for leadership. We must not look back in history and use past history to justify breaking the country apart. We must move ahead and heal the wounds that exist in the country today to bring all Canadians together in a strong and united Canada forever.