Ralph Goodale

[Transportation Of Plutonium, April 5th, 2000]

Mr. Speaker, on this side of the border we operate under Canadian law, not American law.

During the public consultation process regarding MOX, we received several public representations to consider air transportation. We took those representations seriously.

During all of our consideration of this matter, our questions were directed to whether this can this be done safely and legally in accordance with the Canadian Environmental Protection Act, the Canadian Transportation of Goods Act and the Canadian Atomic Energy Control Act as well as the International Civil Aviation Organization and the International Atomic Energy Agency.

The answers to those questions—

[Genetically Modified Organisms, March 31st, 2000]

Mr. Speaker, with regard to the safety of any food in Canada, the decisions taken by the regulatory agencies of the Government of Canada are based upon the best information available both in Canada and around the world, and the best available science. We will ensure not only that that science continues to be strong and sound, but also that all Canadians can have absolute confidence in their food supply.

[The Environment, March 31st, 2000]

Mr. Speaker, the answer is yes.

[The Environment, March 31st, 2000]

Mr. Speaker, as is always the case, the hon. member, the House and Canadians can be fully satisfied that any transportation of nuclear materials is in complete compliance with the regulations of the Atomic Energy Control Board, the regulations of the Department of Transport and where applicable, all international regulations such as those of the International Civil Aviation Organization and the International Atomic Energy Agency. All rules and regulations will be fully respected.

[Environment, March 30th, 2000]

Mr. Speaker, we had useful discussions with the provinces. Together we are moving beyond frameworks and strategies to produce specific business plans by this fall, dealing with matters like emissions trading and testing the concept of credits for prompt action.

The Government of Canada is going further. From our own federal operations we will reach an emissions reduction level that is not 6% but 20% below 1990 levels. We will reach that not by 2010 but by 2005. In addition, there was $625 million in the budget earlier this month.

[Questions On The Order Paper, March 29th, 2000]

Number of directors:

1994-95; 7 1995-96; 6 1996-97; 7 1997-98; 6 1998-99; 6 1999-2000; 6

On remuneration, each director receives an annual retainer of $3,000; plus $325 per diem for attendance at meetings of the board or any committee thereof; plus expenses.

Question No. 75—

[The Environment, March 29th, 2000]

Mr. Speaker, we are already in the process of implementing a system of baseline protection to give companies confidence about the future in terms of taking early action.

I might also say that with the European model the Quebec government is embracing it would find, based upon that model, a much higher target for Quebec than the national average. I am sure that is not its intention, but it should be careful about embracing models that do not apply in Canada.

[The Environment, March 29th, 2000]

Mr. Speaker, we regret Quebec's departure from the meeting a couple of days ago. We appreciate its desire to be proactive, but we all really need to work hard together as a team on this issue.

I might caution the Quebec government against embracing the European model as it did at the meeting. That model would mean, for example, a massive increase in costs in Quebec for truckers, farmers and consumers, directly contrary to the representations made two minutes ago by the member for Témiscamingue.

[Gasoline Pricing, March 22nd, 2000]

Mr. Speaker, I will quote from the Regina Leader Post of yesterday:

One of the industry's most persistent critics (the hon. member for Regina who has just spoken) praised the announcement by his Liberal counterpart. “The study is a good idea. I think there's some value in it”.

He called upon us to proceed with it right away. The member is talking out of both sides of his mouth at the same time.

[Gasoline Prices, March 15th, 2000]

Mr. Speaker, just to clarify the record, the Minister of Labour communicated with the Minister of Finance with respect to raising the fiscal question.

I should point out to the hon. gentleman that the excise tax on gasoline is about 10 cents a litre. The excise tax on diesel is about 4 cents a litre, and particularly with diesel where the concern is concentrated, that tax has not changed since we have been in government.