Thank you, Mr. Speaker. In considering ITI in Committee of the Whole, a topic was discussed that left me thoroughly confused.
We have heard that no changes will be made to the Business Incentive Policy until extensive consultation with stakeholders has taken place. Even then, any changes proposed would not take effect until the 2009–2010 fiscal year.
These actions are curious on several fronts. I’m referring to the actions of the Department of ITI. First, we haven’t passed this year’s budget, let alone the 2009–2010 budget. Second, we don’t know what is going to happen to the BIP if we are sincerely embarking on a meaningful consultation with stakeholders. Third, I believe the employees associated with the BIP — and this was very confusing — have already received notification of positions being potentially affected. If we follow what has happened to other potentially affected employees and the premature implementation of redeploying these employees into new positions, this could create a very difficult situation.
The handling of this initiative to review the Business Incentive Policy has been completely inappropriate. Much unnecessary confusion and stress has been created for BIP-registered businesses and the employees in our public service charged with managing this program. This is just one of many demonstrations of this government’s seeming inability to manage the operations of this government.
What are we going to do? The program laid out by our Cabinet colleagues appears to be unfolding and marching ahead in spite of the calls for consultation and clarity from this side of the House. We are all looking forward to returning to our constituencies this summer, but given the actions of this government that took place immediately upon our departure after our last session.... Although I’m looking forward to going home, I’m afraid of what could happen in the ensuing months until we get back together in this House.