Debates of Nov. 5th, 2004

Economic Development Agency of Canada for the Regions of Quebec Act

[David Smith, Liberal, Pontiac, QC]

Mr. Speaker, in my riding there is a roundtable of all federal and provincial stakeholders. There are anglophones, francophones and Algonquians working together for the good of the community. I encourage my hon. friend opposite to take part in this kind of working environment for the good of the community and of all Quebeckers.

With respect to the program before us, we are not creating a new structure. This structure already exists. We are just removing the Industry Canada shell and giving it its own identity.

[The Speaker]

The hon. member for Alfred-Pellan for a brief answer.

[Robert Carrier, Bloc, Alfred-Pellan, QC]

Mr. Speaker, my answer will be brief.

It is obvious that the same structure is being maintained. But the important point is that it will create a department, with a minister who is responsible, who, in any case, will politicize the whole federal approach even more, which will only complicate all negotiations and collaboration that may be happening with the various levels of government.

[The Speaker]

There are five minutes remaining for questions and comments on the speech by the hon. member for Alfred-Pellan. He may continue the next time this bill is before the House.

It being 2:30 p.m., the House stands adjourned until Monday, November 15, at 11 a.m., pursuant to Standing Orders 28(2) and 24(1).

(The House adjourned at 2:30 p.m.)