Thank you, Mr. Speaker. I would like to speak to the conflict report and the process we are likely to use to debate this issue. Later today, I will move a motion to move the report into committee of the whole for debate and resolution. The conflict report has stirred up a great deal of public debate in the news and in the public media, call-in programs and so forth.

Our geography is very large, Mr. Speaker, but it is obvious our political world is very small. Our moves and comments are the subject of much scrutiny and controversy. Now it is our responsibility to deal with the report, to either accept it or to reject it. The report clearly states we must accept or reject the recommendations.

One part of the act states that nothing in this act affects the inherent power of the Legislative Assembly to control its own proceedings, privileges, or prerogatives, unless expressly provided for otherwise. In other words, there is no express provision limiting the course of action of the Assembly. Since it is the fundamental and inherent right of Members to run this Assembly, therefore, it is also our duty to determine what course of action we deem appropriate.

It is this Assembly's inherent right to punish its own Members in cases where there is guilt. In my mind, that means punishment as we see appropriate if there is guilt. This is a very unique responsibility. The act is there to promote and maintain public trust and confidence in the integrity, impartiality and objectivity of the Assembly Members and of the process of government.

The Conflict Commissioner saw eight terms of reference that disclosed adequate grounds for proceeding with an inquiry. The report sends a stern message that government must be conducted openly and transparently. Whatever the fate of the report, in my mind, that report is the result and the reasons why the inquiry came about: the lack of openness and transparency. All I can do is reflect back to the many questions I asked on the Lahm Ridge Tower to no satisfaction. No wonder we are at this today. Thank you, Mr. Speaker.

--Applause