Mr. Speaker, yesterday, the Standing Committee on Transport submitted its report on the national marine strategy. Disregarding the principles of caution and prevention with respect to the environment, the committee questioned compulsory pilotage, particularly in the St. Lawrence and in the Seaway.
This proposal is contrary to the worldwide trend to expanding pilotage areas and raising safety standards. A catastrophe like that of the Exxon Valdez would be an environmental disaster for the St. Lawrence River and the Great Lakes.
The Liberal majority on the Standing Committee on Transport, with its concern for cost cuts and free competition, has completely set aside environmental concerns. We hope that the Minister of the Environment will use her influence with the Minister of Transport to ensure his decisions reflect the principle of sustainable development.