Mr. Speaker, I rise on what I think is a very solemn occasion. I want to assure you, the electorate of my riding and all Canadians that I have nothing but respect for this place, what it stands for, for your office, for your position and for the duties which you bear.
When I have expressed myself on this issue I want to make it very clear that I have done so on principles which I believe in very strongly.
My parents came to this country to seek freedoms, the freedom of expression being among them. I am here to defend that.
I would also like to speak specifically to the motion which the member from the Conservative Party is proposing concerning the issue before us. He is calling for this to be an immediate point of privilege. I believe, Mr. Speaker, that there can be no immediate point of privilege since you have not yet brought your ruling. Therefore I think you need to rule against this being an immediate issue.