I call the meeting to order and invite our witnesses today to take the stand, so to speak.
The finance committee continues its hearings, as mandated by the House of Commons, on an annual basis, to consider and make reports on proposals regarding the budgetary policies of the government. This year the theme of our consultations is “Canada's place in a competitive world”.
We appreciate our witnesses being here today. We appreciate the briefs you have submitted to us already.
We'll now invite your testimony before the committee. It will be followed by questions. I think you've been notified of the format. You have only five minutes, which we don't apologize for, and it is true that your remarks will be limited to that. I will endeavour to interrupt you as little as possible. We'll leave maximum time for questions thereafter.
Thank you all for being here.
We'll begin with the National Anti-Poverty Organization. Debbie Frost is president. You have five minutes.