Thank you, Madam Speaker. Madam Speaker, today I rise on an issue of very serious concern. I am referring to, Madam Speaker, the manner in which this government attempted to pass a number of bills through this House yesterday. Specifically, bills 9, 10, 11 and 12.

Madam Speaker, Members received copies of these bills in their binders just prior to sitting yesterday and in an effort to cooperate with this government, we agreed to give the bills first reading before reviewing them in detail. Members were then shocked to discover, Madam Speaker, that these bills contained a coming into force clause as of the first reading of the bill in this Assembly.

I am not sure why this was done, Madam Speaker. The results of this government's disregard for the process of this House has shaken the foundations of our unique consensus system of government. I am shocked by these events, Madam Speaker. There can be no excuse for such actions. Members of this House, whether they are Ministers or ordinary Members, have always tried to work together in an atmosphere of openness and mutual respect. Members trust the integrity of Cabinet in involving ordinary Members and, therefore, the public in all discussions that affect them.

We try to strive for and hope prior consultation takes place so Members are not surprised by the actions of the other party. I feel that this trust has been shaken. Thank you, Madam Speaker.

---Applause