Mr. Speaker, I think the hon. member's question does not really put forward the fact that the new transfer payment gives the federal government a much greater and stronger ability to continue to ensure the basic principles of the Canada Health Act are maintained by consolidating the cash transfers under the three programs into one solid fund. It used to be given separately for health, education and welfare. We now have the continuing ability to ensure that leverage is exercised and to make sure the accountability under those five principles of the Canada Health Act and the residency requirements of the Canada assistance plan are maintained.
Contrary to what the hon. member is imputing in her question, the transfer payment strengthens the federal ability to ensure the responsibility of the provinces to live up to those national principles.