Mr. Speaker, I must admit that I am somewhat disturbed and definitely very concerned.
The parliamentary secretary just said that his goal is to circumvent tendering rules because he wants to save six months.
We know that the government is dragging its feet. It is like pulling teeth trying to get it to replace the Champlain Bridge. Jacques Cartier and Champlain Bridges Incorporated has been asking Transport Canada for a replacement for 10 years, saying that it needs to happen.
The government knew that when it came to power. Reports have been released, including a Delcan report, that also say that the bridge needs to be replaced. Despite that, in the 2011 election, the government said that it would not replace it.
My concern appears to be justified: the government is deciding not to hold an international architecture competition and is opting to use the services of a company without a call for tenders so that the company will benefit.
This is yet another example of patronage that favours the government's friends. It is sad.