Mr. Speaker, I listened very intently to the words of my hon. colleague.
I think that everyone in Canada, certainly everyone in this place, is well aware that our two parties share the same sentiment toward the inappropriateness of the present structure of the other place. Where we differ is that my hon. colleague's party chooses to support the abolishment of the senate, while the Reform Party of Canada supports a triple E senate. I wear the triple E pin very proudly. I still support the concept that we need an equal, effective and elected senate.
I agree with my hon. colleague that the vast majority of Canadians do not believe the Senate as it is presently structured serves any useful purpose. It is a patronage haven for the old parties. With the dictatorial system we have in the House and the way in which the present government operates by ramming through legislation with closure, I ask my colleague how would we have a check and balance without having an elected, effective and regional Senate?