Mr. Speaker, the current agreement on interprovincial trade does not work. A recent Canadian Chamber of Commerce statement indicated that all levels of government have been given a failing grade. Overall the report card review graded Canada a dismal D .
The federal government has failed to show leadership in improving trade between the provinces of this country. It persistently encourages trade relations with other countries but fails to improve trade between Canadian provinces.
This is costing Canadian jobs. Why can this government not recognize that one of the strongest incentives to reducing interprovincial trade barriers is the enormous untapped potential that would boost economic growth?
Knocking down the remaining barriers would create another 200,000 jobs. When is this government going to take real leadership and ensure that parties comply? Governments need to renew their commitment and get the process moving again on all fronts.
I remind this government that economic union and national unity are inseparable. The stronger the economic ties this government can nurture, the stronger Canada's national fabric.