Mr. Chairman, I think the hon. member from the Bloc Quebecois misunderstood me. First, let me assure the House that, as Minister of Labour, I personally read each and every report I receive. Have no fear, if a report is sent to me, I will read it.
I think the Bloc member did not understand the fact that I already have a report that was sent to my predecessor. We have already tried conciliation at a previous step in this process. There was a concilation commissioner who submitted a report, not only to the minister, but to both parties involved who took cognizance of it.
The conciliation commissioner did an outstanding job. He examined in detail all the problems involved and came up with some answers. His report was handed down not only to the minister, but also to both parties involved. The bill before us provides for the appointment of a mediator-arbitrator, that is to say that the emphasis will be put, first and foremost, on mediation.
This is in line with the wishes expressed by members of the Bloc Quebecois who demanded a mediation process. This bill will ensure that such a mediation process takes place. If the parties cannot reach an agreement, the mediator will become an arbitrator and will then act in such a capacity. So, in that sense, the bill before us addresses the concerns of both parties who, unfortunately, could not come to an agreement.
As I said earlier, a Minister of Labour is always reluctant to introduce back-to-work legislation. It is always better for the parties to come to an agreement by themselves, but since this was not possible, we must act to protect the entire economy of Western Canada.