Economic and Fiscal Statement  Mr. Speaker, we hear the member talk a lot about Canadians as though they were some big amorphous group. The reality is that Canadians represent a diverse range of groups, groups that are not represented in this fiscal update, and they are the reason we need to look at alternatives in terms of governing this country.

Economic and Fiscal Statement  Mr. Speaker, reference has been made to looking out for the benefit of Canadians. Much discussion has taken place on the issue of gender and how women suffer a great deal as a result of the government's agenda. Not only are we seeing the systematic roll-back of the battle related to pay equity, but we are also seeing threats to the more general area of the rights of workers, in which women are affected as well.

Aboriginal Affairs  Mr. Speaker, I rise today to recognize the tremendous work being done by young aboriginal leaders in first nations across my riding of Churchill. These young leaders point to the need for young people to be heard. They speak of the hardships they face: high rates of suicide, an overwhelming sense of hopelessness, and tremendous abuse.

Resumption of Debate on Address in Reply  Mr. Speaker, in response to my colleague's comments, I encourage him and his caucus to vote against the throne speech which fails to deal with the issues that we need to act on for the benefit of Canadians. We need to look at economic stimulus all across the region. In my speech I mentioned a number of areas, certainly in the area of infrastructure.

Resumption of Debate on Address in Reply  Mr. Speaker, people in the north need to deal with the serious issues of social and economic justice that they face. As I outlined in my speech, there is a serious lack of response in terms of the sheer inequality and, quite frankly, the third world conditions that first nations face in northern Manitoba and all across Canada.

Resumption of Debate on Address in Reply  Mr. Speaker, I will be splitting my time with the member for Hamilton Mountain. It is an honour to rise in the House of Commons and present my response to the Speech from the Throne. I would like to begin by thanking the constituents of Churchill. Having been born and raised in Thompson, Manitoba, I am truly honoured to represent my home region of Churchill.

Electoral System  Mr. Speaker, my fellow MPs told me not to expect an adequate answer but I expected at least an attempt. Canada's north has the youngest population in Canada. Young people often do not have ID when they turn 18. Under the current rules, aboriginal people, young people and our seniors were turned away at the polls at some of the highest rates.

Electoral System  Mr. Speaker, too many people were not able to vote in the last election because they encountered various problems. These are problems we cannot forget now that we have been elected. In my riding, not everyone was able to vote. Some people do not have driver's licences. There are no roads.