Madam Chair, small businesses play a fundamental role in the Canadian economy. In an article in La Presse, the Minister of Economic Development warned us that the economic crisis caused by severe lockdown measures could have more serious consequences in small municipalities than in large cities.
Based on discussions with the chambers of commerce in my riding, it is clear that federal government assistance will be essential for the reopening of the economy, specifically for the rural economy. In fact, I would like to acknowledge the work of the Prescott-Russell community development corporation (PRCDC), under the leadership of John Candie.
After announcing almost $57 million to help SMEs adopt e-commerce, how does the minister plan to help SMEs and the business community in our rural areas?