Mr. Speaker, I thank the hon. member for his questions. It seems to me I clearly indicated that there were a number of alternatives, such as a reference to the courts to determine whether the agreement already reached meets the conditions of Term 17, or an amendment that would meet the needs of all those involved, or bring in changes, as was done before, and use the amendment later on, if necessary.
These are at least three options. As for francophones in Newfoundland and the fact that they do not manage their own schools, I do not know. It must be recognized that progress can sometimes be very slow in some provinces. However, I do hope that the new premier, who made a commitment and who showed some openness, will be able to remedy the situation. I say this in all sincerity, and I applaud the efforts of Newfoundlanders in this regard. I am prepared, along with my French speaking colleagues, to try to help them.
With regard to the comment made about Ontario, this is what I have been told. That comment was from a public school trustee who thought some savings could be made by somehow merging or restricting the powers or the authority of catholic schools or school boards.
Let us not get carried away. I do not believe that, if the amendment is adopted, minority rights will completely changed, whether in the education sector or in any other one. I suggest that a lot of questions will be raised. Debates will take place and they will not necessarily promote unity, whether at the community, provincial or national level.