Mr. Speaker, I had some very constructive discussions with Quebec's transport minister, Mr. Brassard. We spoke about the need to exchange information with regard to the transfer of airports to municipalities, the province or private interests.
We will continue with the program, but it is my hope that in future we will be able to continue to have, in a spirit of co-operation, discussions that are productive for both parties and for these airports during the transfer period. There are, I believe, $35 million set aside to help with the transfer, that is to improve the infrastructure of these airports before they are turned over to municipalities.
What I am waiting for from the province of Quebec is a decision on its part to allow the 12 municipalities who wish to enter into discussions with us to do so. In the province of Quebec, they cannot deal directly with the federal government without Mr. Brassard's permission. I hope to have this permission within a few weeks.