The hon. member could not have said it better.
However, if members on the opposite side of the House think I am being unduly critical of their performance I would like to remind them that the changes proposed by this bill present the perfect opportunity for the government to show that it does care about the needs of farmers.
Certainly farmers in my riding and presumably farmers across Canada would be pleased to see the changes I am proposing. I would therefore implore all members of the House, but especially those members opposite, to give serious consideration to this bill. Although not votable by choice of the committee responsible to make that decision, it is my hope that this discussion has highlighted the gaps in the existing legislation.
It is also my hope that the government will take advantage of this excellent opportunity to pursue greater fairness not only for the flood victims in my riding but for all farmers across this country forced to sell or destroy livestock as a result of disease or natural disaster.