Thank you, Mr. Chairman. Earlier on this afternoon I had asked a question of Mr. Todd, the honourable Minister of Finance, and it was ruled out of order. I feel that it's important that that question be asked again. I accept the fact that during Mr. Todd's presentation at the beginning, it was probably covered but I would specifically like to separate it because it has been brought to me by a number of my constituents and I believe it deserves clarification.
I will reread this again, if I may. This is with regard to Bill 2, An Act to Amend the Public Service Act. I understand that clause 3 revokes the articles in the three collective bargaining agreements which state that the agreements will stay in force, even after their expiry date, until new agreements are concluded. This has understandably lead to significant confusion and consternation among organized government employees. However, it is my understanding that even with the passage of this bill, the collective bargaining agreements will continue in force as long as negotiations are continuing. I would like the Minister to tell me whether this is so and clarify this issue for the benefit of all unionized government employees.