The Bloc Quebecois is proposing a much more flexible solution, which would make it possible to eliminate considerable overlap. They suggest transferring the GST to those provinces who request it, with an equivalent reduction in provincial transfer payments. Mr. Speaker, I rise in this House today to address a very serious issue, the current threat to freedom of speech in this Parliament. We are witnessing the decline of dialogue when a member in this House can be accused of hate mongering for expressing what she feels are the views of the majority of Canadians and which are rooted in her personal convictions. No member of this House should be afraid of expressing their point of view because of a threat of being labelled as a bigot.
Nothing shuts down dialogue and the freedom of debate more quickly than labelling.
It is extremely important to all Canadians that in the shaping of public policy alternate points of view must never be suppressed but must be allowed free expression. Members of this House must never fear to speak out in defence of the views of their constituents, the convictions of their conscience or on behalf of the concerns of Canadians. Our schools play an important role in teaching our youth tolerance and acceptance of individuals regardless of race or culture. All Canadians, regardless of their ethnic origin, religion or political affiliation have the right to have access to public institutions, including schools. The Parti Quebecois government must take the necessary action to ensure a climate of tolerance and harmony for all citizens of Quebec.