Thank you very much, Madam Speaker, and colleagues in the House. I would like to address two items concerning this motion. I think it is of significant importance to get them on the books.
The first item is on the amendment to the motion. While it appears fairly innocuous and since virtually everyone in the House is onside on this, it is rather unseemly that it be introduced so late. It does not bind the government anyway because it is just a motion.
The other point I would like to raise concerns the income contingent loan repayment. Information today in the Globe and Mail says that Alberta, Ontario and New Brunswick have decided they are not able to participate as it is presently written. Therefore, whatever we do with the income contingent loan repayment, which is a very good idea, the important element we must bear in mind is to be flexible.
As my colleagues know, we are going into a very difficult time financially. The future of our country depends on the ability of our young generation to be educated so they can use that education as a springboard for opportunity. Therefore, it is important that we look at the income contingent loan repayment in a very flexible, malleable manner if we have to change it. For instance interest may not be chargeable and that might be something we would look at.
I ask hon. colleagues to consider this.