Yes, it wasn't important enough to trump character assassination. Members could say they see a problem with how it is affecting small business, but it was not important enough to trump character assassination.
There is an old saying, “If you live in a glass house, don't throw rocks”. The House of Commons is not a glass house, but we are engaging in rock-throwing instead of a constructive debate and critique of any one aspect of what is being proposed.
If opposition members see opportunities to improve the legislation, I strongly suggest they put them forward. They could put them forward in a constructive manner, and the government would be very open to considering any constructive feedback. This is what we have been engaged in for the last 75 days, and the finance minister continues to be open to hearing feedback on how to improve these suggested changes. I expect to see more changes being implemented.
If there are good ideas and suggestions, I would tell the opposition to put aside these silly motions of character assassination and put forward good suggestions for the finance minister to consider. I know he is open-minded. I know he is working hard for the Canadian economy, and I am certain he will listen to them.