Madam Speaker, as a Nova Scotian, I applaud my premier for trying to negotiate the best agreement possible for the province. I also recognize the responsibilities of the Prime Minister and the Minister of Health to negotiate the best deal possible for all Canadians.
Nova Scotia already receives 100% of royalties. The problem happens in the equalization formula. The problem is that as Nova Scotia receives the revenues they are calculated within the equalization formula as earned revenue and that reduces the equalization amounts we receive. I prefer we not have that. The Prime Minister and the Minister of Finance understand that and they are negotiating a deal which reduces that. I want that to happen.
I encourage the premier. I support that deal. We have a very good deal on the table now. However, I have to recognize as a Nova Scotian that what extra I get is not available for people from other provinces and the Prime Minister has to represent all Canadians. I support the premier in any improvements he can make to it.