Mr. Speaker, the hon. member makes two very good points.
First, with respect to the air transport tax, that was eliminated some years ago when we commercialized NavCanada. NavCanada then charged back its fees through the airlines and the airlines did add that to the ticket price. However that covers the air navigation system. The airlines themselves were responsible for the screening and other security costs. We estimate that there will be savings of about $72 million for the airline industry.
On the second point the hon. member makes, he is absolutely right. We cannot have anyone, not just members of parliament but members of the public, believe that this charge will be used for other purposes.
Yes, it will go to the consolidated revenue fund. Yes, it will pay for all of the related security measures that are being introduced. However as the equipment is bought, and we are talking about $1 billion for EDS equipment alone over the next few years, obviously that charge will be reviewed. In fact I talked to the Minister of Finance about this during question period, between questions if members can believe that given today's question period. He acknowledged the fact that there absolutely will be a review.
This will not be a revenue generating device for the federal government. This really is something to pay for all of the security measures. It is something we felt--and I believe Canadians will support us on this--should be borne by the travelling public and not come out of general tax revenues.