Mr. Speaker, I would like to congratulate my colleague from the industry committee on a very good speech. He is often very articulate, passionate and well researched. In fact, this is the most relaxed I have seen him, so he must have had a good holiday.
I have two questions. I understand that this is a good bill for workers and their families, but other employers in Ontario have come to me asking for the same type of standards or practices that could be enforced when they want to do the right thing for workers by investing in health and safety. They see their competitors who undermine that by taking shortcuts and not having any enforcement, and are able to get a competitive advantage.
I wonder whether members are hearing the same type of comments in Quebec because it is something I hear. It is not just about the workers. It is about employers who want to do the right thing and their business plans are undermined by those who want to take shortcuts.
My second question is in relation to fines. Currently, the government has a practice of fines on environmental matters which are allowed as a business expense and companies are able to recover a good portion of those fines through tax deductions.
Does the member think that is a good situation or a bad situation? Personally, I do not think that is right. I think there are ethical issues and the practice must be changed. I would hate to see this type of situation develop where a fine can be tax deductible. Does the hon. member agree or disagree with that?