Mr. Speaker, the Government of Newfoundland has requested an amendment to the Constitution which would remove the protection of minority religious education rights. In my view such a constitutional amendment would constitute a dangerous political precedent that potentially could be used by other provinces bent on the destruction of denominational education.
Also, if such an amendment to the Constitution is passed other minority rights, including language or aboriginal rights, could be threatened.
A strong argument can be made that public hearings should be held before Parliament deals with the request from Newfoundland. Hearings would ensure a full and fair opportunity for all interested parties to speak to this important matter.
Whatever problems exist within the school system of Newfoundland should be resolved co-operatively by the people of Newfoundland and their leaders.
However, an attack on minority rights anywhere in Canada is an unacceptable threat to minority rights everywhere in Canada.
I call on the government to think very carefully before it acts on this vital issue. Any vote on this matter in the House should be a free vote.