Thank you, Mr. Chair.
I am really happy that we are talking about food waste.
I think it is very important to prioritize buying local. I do it every summer and whenever possible. During the summer, there are a number of public markets, which I also visit. This year, that gave me an opportunity to talk a bit about food policy.
At the NDP, we have been working on developing a food strategy for several years. In 2014, we developed and unveiled our food policy—our strategy and vision for agriculture. We were the only party to do so before the 2015 election, and I am really proud of that. I am happy that the Liberals are holding consultations and are creating their own strategy.
One issue that comes up often is food waste. During the summer, I had an opportunity to participate in a press conference held by Moisson Lanaudière. For some time, Moisson Lanaudière has been working with retailers from the region. IGA and Metro make donations to Moisson Lanaudière. In Mauricie, Moisson Mauricie/Centre-du-Québec has virtually the same program, and I know there is a similar program in Montreal. It is important to ensure that the poorest people who are in need have access to healthy food.
Last year, I introduced a bill asking the federal government to take action by planning the development of a national strategy to reduce food waste.
Mr. McLinton, you talked about the importance of funding to fill the gaps in infrastructure. Trucks and refrigeration systems are needed. Can you tell us more about the importance of making a recommendation on that kind of a program or on the support that must be given to food banks in terms of supply and transportation of food from retailers to aid organizations?