Madam Speaker, I thank the parliamentary secretary for his intervention this evening and for his emphasis on the non-political nature of this issue.
I too was somewhat disturbed by the comments of the member for Charleswood--St. James--Assiniboia which had a tone similar to the member for Kildonan--St. Paul, a partisan edge and a political spin that just does not seem to be warranted this evening.
I would like to draw on the strength of the words posed by my colleague, the member for Elmwood--Transcona, who urged us to rise above that kind of bickering and to realize that this was an issue of public interest. This is a matter that threatens all of our lives and it is something on which we have to fight together.
In fact, there is strong representation from all quarters on this issue, whether we are talking about Premier Doer's government in Manitoba or the efforts by members in this House from all sides, as well as the environment committee which came forward with an all party statement and plea to Condoleezza Rice.
My question for the member has to do with the urgency of this issue. Earlier this evening it was suggested that we might actually work toward a resolution adopted by this House that would be unanimous and sent to our counterparts in the United States. I would like the member to think about the following words and tell me if he thinks this would have the support of his colleagues. I would like all my colleagues to think about this overnight and come back tomorrow with a willingness to do this.
This is the suggested resolution:
That this House unanimously request the United States House of Representatives and Senate, pursuant to the Boundary Waters Treaty, to call for an immediate referral to the International Joint Commission for independent assessment and review of the Devils Lake diversion project.
I wonder whether the parliamentary secretary could give some indication of support or at least of seek the support of his colleagues overnight.