Outaouais Region  Mr. Speaker, in keeping with the Liberal government's promise to be open and transparent, on January 19, I joined my colleagues from the Outaouais region, the members for Hull—Aylmer, Pontiac, and Argenteuil—La Petite-Nation, to hold prebudget consultations with approximately 25 representatives of economic and social groups in the region.

Business of Supply  Madam Speaker, I thank my hon. colleague for his speech. As an MP from Quebec, like me, he has likely seen many situations where members have engaged in political pandering by calling national unity into question. That is what the Conservatives seem to be doing by bringing up the national energy policy and national unity in this debate.

Resumption of Debate on Address in Reply  Mr. Speaker, I was very proud to run in the election as part of the Liberal Party, which has promised to give Canadians a fair tax system that will give hope to the middle class and those who aspire to be part of it. I do not know where the hon. member gets his statistics with respect to TFSAs.

Resumption of Debate on Address in Reply  Mr. Speaker, as the member well knows, one of the great legacies among the many legacies of Liberal governments in this place is a strong competition framework. I know the Competition Bureau, which works at arm's-length from the government, will work hard and will keep its eye rivetted on gas prices across the country.

Resumption of Debate on Address in Reply  Mr. Speaker, before I begin, I would like to inform you that I will be splitting my time with my colleague, the hon. member for Rivière-des-Mille-Îles. As this is my first speech in this place, I would like to take the time to thank the people of Gatineau for putting their trust in me and electing me last October 19.

Public Service of Canada  Mr. Speaker, as the member for Gatineau, I know just how much our federal public service stands out for its professionalism. Like my colleagues, I have met thousands of our public servants who expect their government to respect them and value their contributions. This government is committed to negotiating in good faith with our public servants.

Resumption of Debate on Address in Reply  Mr. Speaker, I am honoured to be here representing the people of Gatineau. I congratulate my hon. colleague on his speech. I know him well. Considering his background, I wonder if he might comment on francophone minority communities and the French language and bilingualism in Canada in general.