Mr. Chairman, I would like to ask our witnesses a question. Regarding the $1,200 payment for each child under the age of six, we had suggested to the Minister of Finance, before the budget was drawn up, that this $1,200 amount be transformed into a refundable tax credit. At that time, we pointed out that this measure would resolve three things. First of all, it would resolve any overlap between jurisdictions, since family policy is a provincial matter and an issue that comes under the jurisdiction of the Government of Quebec. Secondly, it would prevent provincial governments from using part of the money paid to families. Thirdly, we would really be able to target low and middle-income families, and even high-income families, who would benefit from a refundable tax credit higher than the $1,200 amount. By the way, this $1,200 amount also applies to families with very high incomes. If one of the two parents does not work, the money will still be paid, even for families with a family income greater than $250,000. Generally speaking, this measure would not be anymore costly than the $1,200 tax credit for children under the age of six.
So why choose cash payments rather than refundable tax credits which, in many respects, are more beneficial to the parents?