We'd simply like to conclude by re-emphasizing that it's our view that public infrastructure is a core business of government. That's not to say there can't be private sector involvement.
Infrastructure must be considered an investment, not an expense. Embracing a long-term strategic infrastructure investment plan to address our infrastructure shortfall will make Canada more competitive and, just as important, more resistant to economic downturns. It will enhance our social, economic, and environmental quality of life. It will help us reduce the capital, upkeep, and operational cost of infrastructure over its design life and create long-term jobs in multiple sectors.
However, as we mentioned, commitment to long-term funding strategies by all three levels of government has significantly waned since the sixties, and infrastructure investment has decreased by half.
Thank you very much for your time.