Mr. Speaker, I wish my colleague had been here in 1992. With those kinds of comments we might not have had the Tories impose the arbitrary freeze and reduction on municipal governments. Where were our friends in the Tory party in 1992? Unfortunately they were not here, but that is history.
I would point out to the hon. gentleman that the FCM was fully briefed two weeks ago. The president of the FCM will be at committee. There certainly will not be any ramming. I presume there will be full debate. I hope to take part in those discussions. Even though I am not a member of the committee, I intend to show up. This is obviously something that is near and dear not only to my heart but to all colleagues.
We are in agreement. I was very heartened to hear that the member will support this legislation. Unfortunately his predecessors were not as generous or enlightened as the hon. gentleman across the way. I thank him and look forward to his support.