Human Resources committee  The program was run according to each province's recommendations. The province's proposals were submitted.

Human Resources committee  We will forward that information on to the committee.

Human Resources committee  As indicated in the budget, the government has undertaken to invest $2.9 billion. The costs are due to additional employment insurance investments.

Human Resources committee  The money is coming from the government's general revenue.

Human Resources committee  The minister and his staff held a number of consultations.

Human Resources committee  The current annual funding is $50 million. It used to be $30 million, but with the new investment, it's $50 million per year.

Human Resources committee  I'm not in a position to comment on the policy choices that were made between different measures, but I would indicate that, as noted in my remarks, the estimated cost associated with the extension of the five weeks is $1.15 billion over two years. That would be the amount of stimulus, if you will, that would be associated with that.

Human Resources committee  I think that you're referring to the initiative for the workers.

Human Resources committee  The budget contains a funding increase for the Targeted Initiative for older workers.

Human Resources committee  Thank you, Mr. Chair and members of the human resources standing committee. I'm pleased to have this opportunity to appear before you today. As noted, my name is Paul Thompson. I'm the associate assistant deputy minister for the skills and employment branch, Department of Human Resources and Skills Development.