Mr. Speaker, as was only to be expected, yesterday's budget of the Quebec Minister of Finance was a highly partisan affair.
In particular, he claimed not to need the federal government's money. However, did anyone notice how quickly our cheque was cashed?
We are pleased that the $1.4 billion in equalization payments from the Canadian government will be put into such vital areas as health and education, both priorities for Quebeckers.
I would remind the sovereignists that Quebeckers are sick of the quarrels being stirred up artificially by the Parti Quebecois government. Quebeckers are calling on their government to work in close collaboration, so that they may gain maximum benefit from their share.
So, sovereignists, stop playing these prereferendum games. Quebeckers are calling you to order.