Mr. Speaker, I followed the debate and accessed some of the research points, and I think this goes to what the member has been saying.
Let us consider some of the examples respecting the western provinces like federal funding for Tri-University Meson Facility in B.C., $166 million; $670 million in Alberta in infrastructure projects; $359 million in Saskatchewan for infrastructure projects and another $1.5 billion for an aerospace industry initiative; and another $224 million in Manitoba in federal assistance to the Red River Valley fund.
When we look at the different initiatives the federal government has taken with regard to the provinces I have just talked about, we recognize very clearly the diversity of Canada. Certainly Quebec has had its share of difficulties. The federal and the provincial governments have come together to address the needs of the people of Quebec, especially at times of need and natural disasters.
Would the member, in the brief time remaining, comment on the significance to him of the social union, and particularly the health accord to which the Premier of Quebec is a signatory? Would he view that as a sign of federal provincial co-operation which benefits all Canadians?