Mr. Speaker, I have been here for five years. I guess it is inherent in our democratic system or a tradition for the opposition to criticize the government and for the government to try to advance legislation and ideas. It would be refreshing from time to time to hear concrete ideas from all opposition members.
Far too often we hear criticism, criticism, criticism and never any concrete suggestions whatsoever to improve the system. We are constantly striving to improve the system. I recall several attempts by the government to improve the system. We are always confronted by Reform Party members in particular who vote against us. They have had a fixation on trying to solve a particular problem. They always invoke the memory of the Bernardos or Olsons of the world when we try to enact legislation. Section 745 legislation was a clear example of that.
Had we had the co-operation of the parties—and I know the Reform Party agreed but the Bloc reneged on its commitment—Clifford Olson would never have been able to have a section 745 hearing. The member knows full well that the amendments and changes we have put in place will prevent serial killers such as Clifford Olson from even applying under section 745.
There are other initiatives like DNA, for example. I wish we could evolve to a point where opposition and government members would work more closely together but I do not think that will happen. It is the duty of opposition to criticize and I guess it is our duty as government members to advance and to take the criticism.
In direct answer to the member's question, just because the administration of justice is the responsibility of the provinces does not mean that legislation is bad. The member has identified a problem in the area of funding. I reassure him that the Minister of Justice and our government are currently negotiating with not just the two provinces mentioned but with my home province of Quebec to make sure the provinces have the right tools to ensure the administration of the YOA act and other acts is adequate. I believe also, though, that the provinces have a very important role in this regard. It is not just the federal government.