On September 12, 1995, an MP from B.C. who at that time was a Reformer said that MPs were still at the trough. Others did not think it was being at the trough. They thought they owed it to their offspring.
I have been hurt by the statements and comments made in the House about members of parliament. I cannot believe what some members said about those of us who have given over 25 years of our lives to make for a better quality of life for our people. I would never say that about any member of the House. I have never ever said it. I have never used that kind of language. I do not intend to use it tonight. I will quote what members of the official opposition have said about everybody else in the House, but I have never referred to any of them in that way. Nor will I do it tonight.
The member for Fraser Valley stated that all Reform Party members would opt out of the pension plan because they stand on principle and do not swim in gravy. I have never swam in gravy. I am pleased that I am known in my riding as someone of principle.
Last week I was asked to go to a Baptist convention in Moncton. I was the guest speaker for a pro-life meeting. Representatives from all across Canada were there. They did not ask others to do it. I was humbled and proud to be there. I am a person of principle. I take great offence at the statements that have been made by members of the official opposition about me, about others in my party and about others who sit on the government side. We are people of principle. Most of us would not even think of being here if it were not that we wanted to do something that was best for the people of Canada.
I think about why members would come here if they did not want to do something that was better for their people. Why would they want to be here and do and say the things they do? If members of the official opposition wish to come into the pension plan it is up to them. Fine and dandy. We have heard all kinds of rumours in the House about the large numbers in that party who want to have a pension. That is fine, but they should not say derogatory things about other people.