House of Commons photoWon his last election, in 2000, with 56% of the vote.
Drinking Water November 5th, 1997
Mr. Speaker, obviously things are getting seriously diluted.
Everyone knows that it is becoming increasingly difficult for the Bloc Quebecois to justify its presence here in Ottawa. Every day, it looks for significant problems. Today, the focus is water. It is truly bizarre.
Krever Inquiry November 4th, 1997
Mr. Speaker, I think instead of anticipating the recommendations the judge will make, it is best to await the delivery of the report. It will be in our hands within a few weeks. We will make it public and then we can all have a look at it and go from there.
Environment November 4th, 1997
Mr. Speaker, this government recognizes that health is indeed one of the considerations that should figure in the development of environmental policy. It is for that reason that my colleague the Minister of the Environment has engaged me along with all of our colleagues in cabinet and caucus in developing the government's position.
The hon. member can rest assured that when this government announces the position, it will reflect not only the best interests of Canada but health considerations as well.
Drinking Water November 4th, 1997
No, Mr. Speaker. If the hon. member would care to read the bill, he would see that it is clear we have dealt only with matters of federal jurisdiction.
The details of the bill are clear. Provincial jurisdiction is respected. It is up to the provinces to deal with the other matters, and I hope they will.
Drinking Water November 4th, 1997
No, Mr. Speaker. The hon. member is completely mistaken. We prepared the bill with a view to honouring areas of provincial jurisdiction and to acting only within federal jurisdiction to achieve a national priority.
Drinking Water November 4th, 1997
Mr. Speaker, the hon. member should check with her colleagues in Quebec City, because we have the support of all the provinces to introduce this legislation.
We intend to proceed to protect the health of all Canadians.
Drinking Water November 4th, 1997
Mr. Speaker, in our actions, we have respected the jurisdiction of Quebec and of all the other provinces.
In fact, we discussed the details of this legislation with my provincial counterparts and their officials, and it is widely recognized that we took action to meet a challenge faced by every jurisdiction in Canada. It is a federal responsibility, but we are respecting provincial jurisdiction.
Drinking Water November 4th, 1997
Mr. Speaker, the position expressed by the hon. member is a somewhat odd one. Is he opposed to Canadians having safe water? Is he opposed to health standards for Canadians?
It is very odd to find a constitutional question in all this. I am extremely surprised and disappointed. It is our intention to act in order to protect the health of all Canadians.
Drinking Water November 4th, 1997
Mr. Speaker, that of course is quite untrue.
What the bill does is regulate a matter entirely within federal jurisdiction; that is to say, standards for the manufacture, sale and use of mechanisms and equipment used in connection with the transporting of drinking water.
Provincial jurisdiction is being fully respected. Our sole intent is to respect federal responsibilities.
Tobacco Act November 3rd, 1997
Mr. Speaker, we have not yet introduced the amendment. I intend to do so shortly.
I would like to advise the hon. member simply to wait. I will introduce the amendment when it is ready.