Madam Chair, the Minister of Fisheries and Oceans said that Brian Mulroney was in power 10 years ago. I would like to point out that it was closer to 20 or 22 years ago
In 1996, the government transferred money to the provinces so that they would be responsible for the workforce, but it also cut the employment insurance program. We cannot forget the cuts the Liberals made while the employment insurance fund was in a surplus situation.
There are workforce issues along with cuts to employment insurance. The money given to the provinces is meant for regular job creation each year and training, but something special has come up. The fishery is in trouble.
The government should show leadership in this file and help the provinces instead of washing its hands of the situation. It should admit that it is partly responsible because of the 63% cut. It should also admit that it needs to protect the fishery as well as support the provinces and communities.
There is a difference between regular programs and special circumstances. I would like to hear my colleague's comments on that.