Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Yesterday evening, the Minister of Finance came to Fort Smith for a community meeting; the first community he was to visit to discuss this budget. I would like to thank Mr. Todd for making that effort.

--- Applause

As soon as the Minister is finished clapping for himself, I'll conclude my statement.

--- Laughter

There were about 30 people who showed up and there was a frank, far-ranging discussion. I would like to point out that Mr. Todd was neither hectored, vilified or pilloried by any of the people in Fort Smith.

--- Laughter

He would have been if Mr. Picco had been there.

I would like to thank the Minister, and I think it's important that we take that kind of information to the public and stress the need not only to cut the deficit, but to move forward in the area of employment and development, and to take the focus off of government and onto the private sector and economy. So, thank you.

--- Applause