Mr. Speaker, the hon. member raised a number of issues.
Let me set the record straight. I am not biased and I am certainly not confused. I have read the budget, I have scrutinized it and I am very proud to support the budget.
With respect to jobs and job creation we should not overlook the numerous job creation strategy programs the Liberals have implemented and are continuing with the budget. We have our youth service corps initiative and all our human resources development programs the people in my riding of Central Nova rely on on a very regular basis. They are creating jobs. I am proud to say we are now underway in implementing our youth service initiative program.
With respect to ACOA and its new role in terms of economic development in our area, we are very proud and pleased to have ACOA involved in economic and regional development and we are looking forward to working very closely with that agency.
We have our infrastructure program. Although there has been some reduction in the funding my riding has benefited significantly and created a number of jobs pursuant to this program and we are looking forward to future initiatives.
We also rely on small business in our area, which creates up to 85 per cent of the jobs in the country. The Liberals are being very active in terms of ensuring small businesses get the venture capital they need, ACOA will be taking a roll there, and also the measures they have taken in terms of ensuring banks recognize small business initiatives.
With respect to dairy subsidies, which affect my riding, there is only a 30 per cent reduction. There is equity in the budget. Every sector, every individual, every business, everyone has been affected by the budget. In terms of dairy subsidies for Nova Scotia there is only a 30 per cent reduction. It is time it became more competitive and cut its costs in terms of management and organization. It is not necessary for the 30 per cent reduction to be passed on to consumers. I trust it will not be in Central Nova.