That hurts them because, once again, Quebec is receiving not just its fair share, but more than its fair share. I would like to see it receiving less because, if Quebec received less, it would mean that its economy is in better shape.
The day Quebec receives less in the way of equalization payments under this bill it will be because the economy is improving, not because cuts are being made. This will be settled within three years with a provincial election, when the Parti Quebecois is dumped and we have Jean Charest as the premier of Quebec.
In the meantime, allow me to simply state that this bill is an essential one, because it will make it possible, despite the abominable administrative policies of the provincial government, in the hospitals and in all health services, to look after the interests of the population. We say to the people of Quebec, for as long as there is a Liberal government in Ottawa, and for as long as they have Liberal MPs in Ottawa to represent them, they are in good hands and we are going to look after their problems.