Madam Speaker, perhaps I was not listening correctly. I heard if not disparaging remarks about the equalization program, faint praise of that program.
The equalization program is one of all sorts of links and flows which make up this Confederation. In this case it is not some form of charity which is being given to provinces which at this moment under the formula are defined as being have not.
For example, with the case of the province of Saskatchewan, the flows back to the Confederation of the other provinces includes the wonderful health care system we have now. This is something which Saskatchewan has given to us. It was developed there and tried out there and the whole country was able to take it up. It has flourished in a sense.
The member mentioned oil in particular. I do not think he understands that the equalization part which has to do with oil is arranged so it reflects the price of oil, the cost of the production of oil in the province to which the equalization payments are directed. This is very clear on looking at the simulation I have here of equalization changes.
Is the member really saying that he does not like the equalization program? Also, does he not think that every five years there should be a thorough review of it so it reflects current conditions across the country?