Thank you, Madam Speaker. Madam Speaker, today I want to talk about the review of the Liquor Act. First of all, I would like to congratulate the former Minister for undertaking a much-needed review of the Liquor Act.

One issue that was quite controversial this summer that hasn't been discussed in this House, and I would like to put across my views about, was the proposal to ban liquor sales to pregnant women. That, as Members are aware, was quite controversial, not only here but in other parts of the country. In fact, it was discussed on Peter Gzowski this morning.

I understand the deep concern. I understand the desperation that would lead groups to recommend such a harsh reaction to a problem. But I want to go on public record today to say that this particular proposal is absolutely unacceptable for a number of reasons. The first reason is I, for one, don't think it would pass any Charter test.

The second reason is what it really does is condemn women who don't have a drinking problem and put them in the same category with the women who do have a drinking problem.

Thirdly, it's very difficult to tell exactly when a woman is pregnant.

The fourth issue is more and more of the tests that are being done now say that much, if not all, of the damage that is done to a foetus is done in the first few weeks after conception, before a woman would even show that she is pregnant. I think we also have to recognize that a woman who is a problem drinker when she's pregnant does that for a reason, as all problem drinkers do. And that woman doesn't need to be publicly condemned and ridiculed. The woman needs the support of her family, of her community and of this government.

Later on today, I'll follow up with the Minister with some questions on this particular issue. But I just wanted to put it on the public record that I'm absolutely opposed to this particular proposal. Thank you, Madam Speaker.