Mr. Speaker, where are the Atlantic Liberal MPs? Why will they not speak up for their constituents?
Last Friday I challenged all Atlantic Liberal MPs to sign a motion that would require the House to debate the new EI fisheries regulations. As of today, not one Atlantic Liberal MP has agreed to sign the motion that would allow proper debate.
These new regulations, which were quietly tabled, will see the employment insurance benefits for fisheries reduced by $33 million. The savings will come from lowering benefits, shortening the duration of benefits and penalizing repeat users.
Today I challenge my colleagues from all parties to rise above partisan politics, to preserve the quality of life and dignity of our fishing families. With these new EI regulations, the government is unfairly punishing our fishers.
I ask all my colleagues to sign. I only need about 30 signatures and it will be debated in the House. Atlantic fishing families are waiting for Parliament to do what is right, to stand up and protect their livelihood.