Mr. Speaker, we cannot comment on innuendoes or suggestions. We must deal with facts and we operate under the rule of law in Canada.
I thank the hon. member for Charlotte for his question concerning Summa Strategies and the divestiture of the port of Bayside, New Brunswick.
I must emphasize that the divestiture initiative under the national marine policy is going extremely well. In Atlantic Canada alone, 38 ports have been transferred, negotiations are concluded on a further six, and 10 additional letters of intent have been signed with negotiations presently under way. These ports are being transferred to provinces, community based groups and private companies.
Transport Canada is implementing this initiative under a set of guidelines and procedures developed by the department and approved by Treasury Board.
With regard to Bayside, New Brunswick, the officials from Transport Canada convened a public meeting on June 19, 1996 and provided a briefing on the national marine policy and the positive effect it could have for the stakeholders of a port like Bayside. Subsequent to that meeting, a local group of stakeholder representatives was formed and a letter of intent was signed with the group on July 29, 1996.
Charlotte County Ports Ltd. represented by Summa Strategies also came forward and expressed interest in the port. As with any other interested party, the process was explained to them and they were urged to make contact with the local negotiating committee. Charlotte County Ports Ltd. followed this advice and verbally withdrew their expression of interest in favour of working positively with the local port divestiture committee.
Specifically, the hon. member has questioned the involvement of Summa Strategies. Both of the individuals he has referred to are now private citizens and are free to carry out their business affairs as they see fit and in conformity to the rule of the law.
There exists legislation that addresses the lobby business in Canada. I am certain that both of these individuals are fully aware of the requirements surrounding their private business interests.