Madam Speaker, over a period of years we noticed that the Liberal government was using a confrontational approach with the provinces rather than a co-operative approach.
The government is also weak in its consultations with the provinces and with Canadians. It seems that it is not listening to Canadians. When it does not listen to the provinces and to Canadians it shows the arrogance of the government.
The money is the taxpayers' money. The federal government made the computer errors in calculations. The provinces over a period of time received their money, or transfers overpayments, whatever we call it. The provinces are already strapped for transfer payments for health care, education and social services. They have invested the money in providing services to Canadians.
Moreover, the provinces and Canadian taxpayers should not be punished for a mistake made by the federal government reaching back several decades.
As the hon. member quoted finance ministers from various provinces, it is urgent and necessary for us to look into the issue seriously. I point out that the Canadian Alliance believes that the federal government and provinces with tax collection agreements should hold a three year technical system audit to ensure compliance and to protect Canadians from being overtaxed or denied programs and services by either jurisdiction as a result of processing flaws.
I urge all members to vote in favour of the motion because this supply day motion is votable.