Madam Chairman, I am surprised at what the hon. member said about union involvement in the discussions. They have been involved. There have been various meetings, town halls and seminars and the unions have been involved.
The president of the Union of National Defence Employees came to see me last year. He thought it was terrific. He said alternate service delivery had come a long way. Why did he think that? It was because the company offered employment for 100% of the current employees. It offered them a seven year guarantee at equal or better salaries than they have now, plus a wide range of benefits. It is a win-win situation. It means savings for the government and a more comprehensive and cost effective program all around.
Tibbet & Britten has established a Canadian company. It would be employing Canadian people, and 100% of existing employees is not something we see too often. However the union has been involved in discussions on the matter.