Mr. Speaker, the hon. member raises an important question, but I think the record ought to be cleared.
The Government of Quebec chose not to participate in various housing programs over a period of a number of years. For the benefit of the House, it should be noted that the first public housing program was available across the country from 1950 to 1985. Quebec chose not to participate. The second public housing program was available from 1964 to 1985. Quebec chose not to participate until 1968. Despite four lost years, the province still secured almost 25 per cent of the national units. The first rent supplement program was available from 1971 to 1985. Quebec chose not to participate until 1978.
The facts are very clear. The Government of Quebec chose not to participate in these national programs. As a result, the figures to which the hon. member refers are somewhat bogus in view of those facts.