They're actually an immigrant company. They came here as a small group and started in Montreal. I guess it was over ten years ago. They have now grown to 3,000 employees. They are world leaders. It's amazing. They were here, and we learned a lot.
I'll read you a quote from Luc Duchaine, who is their communications director. He said:
When we talk about immigration, it's good to train newcomers, but at the same time, if we want to remain competitive, we need that critical mass of senior people.
I think we've reached a level right now, and I'll speak for Montreal at least, where it's starting to get difficult. They're not multiplying themselves.
You were commenting on all the young people who play video games. My son, who is 25 now, doesn't play so much anymore, but I watch, and the games are totally engaging. I don't think playing a game is the same skill as creating a game. The programmers are the ones; they have programmers they will try to bring from another country who can come in immediately, and everything revolves around the programmer, including actors, musicians, and everybody else to put together a project. They are the key ones.
A number of other witnesses who came before the committee consistently said that the entertainment software industry needs temporary foreign workers. However, as you know, some of the members of the opposition have suggested that we have no need for this program. Now I'm mystified.
Could you comment on whether this program prioritizes foreign nationals over Canadians and why the opposition would advocate a position that goes against what the industry leaders are telling this committee?