Thank you for the question.
We have been trying for years to gauge the return on investment in practical terms. The most recent studies we conducted, with other job-readiness groups in Quebec, have shown that every dollar invested has a return of approximately $2.80. The return on investment is considerable. As Ms. Ravon said, it not only pays for itself, but it also creates economic growth.
I would note quickly that it is often very difficult to demonstrate the return on investment of programs, such as in my sector of job-readiness. We are dealing with quantitative data, reports that organizations have to provide to government. So the provincial or federal government has some quantitative data. There is, however, a tremendous amount of qualitative data that also has to be considered in order to better gauge the return on investment and the benefit to society of helping people, who at first glance face barriers to employment, enter and stay in the labour market.
This is a challenge for many of our colleagues in other socioeconomic sectors. I think we must take the time to get a clear picture of the return on investment and then offer more targeted programs and services accordingly.