Mr. Speaker, during the member's speech when he was talking to the bill on equalization he referred to the employment insurance system as being an example of other ways in which equalization can take place. He specifically said that in Alberta people had to wait a half year before they got employment insurance benefits whereas in the maritimes it was obviously much less and therefore that equalization was giving more to the maritime provinces.
Would the member like to reconsider his statement? It is important for Canadians to understand we have an EI system that is the same for all Canadians. There are some exceptions which reduce benefits and reduce claim periods, but in terms of eligibility for benefits it is the same for all Canadians.
I raise this matter because if the member is incorrect on this item, how many other items in his statements can we believe?