No, Mr. Speaker, we do not think they were excessive demands, absolutely not. What we would have liked to see first of all is for the mediator-arbitrator to be able to have the opportunity to negotiate all working conditions with both parties, including pay.
In the parliamentary game of procedures and amendments here today, however, it has been impossible for us to support this request. However we feel that what is in the bill is an acceptable minimum for both parties. It is a worthwhile basis for negotiation, which also reflects what is being done elsewhere, as well as reflecting the rate of inflation in this country.