Mr. Speaker, at the beginning of the hon. member's speech I was surprised, extremely surprised, very pleased even, to see that a Reform member was showing an interest in Quebec. This was a surprise.
By the end, however, I had seen through his question to the cynicism that lay behind it. In fact, I find the way he presented it somewhat patronizing.
It is as if Quebec were not entitled to its share in this country. I would remind hon. members that Alberta once received equalization payments. According to the Reform's principle, the provinces are equal when that suits them, and unequal when it does not.
Quebec is entitled to the same treatment as all other provinces in this country, no more and no less. Like any other province in this country, moreover, Manitoba, Newfoundland, or whatever, it is entitled to respect.
The problem with Reformers is that, every time there is a minority somewhere, a province or group that is different from them, or what have you, they start saying “It's not right; they are getting preferential treatment”.
Quebec is taking its proper place, and may it be given the freedom to do so. Quebec, francophones, minorities, will most certainly not be able to take their proper place with the Reform Party, but thank goodness, that will never happen. Thank goodness, the Reform Party will never be in power.
This country is blessed. Proof of that blessing is that, in the next election, the Reform Party is likely to have far fewer seats than it does today. Quebec will take its place in an atmosphere of respect, and not of cynicism, particularly from the Reform Party.