Thank you very much, Mr. Chair.
My first question is for Mr. Fortin and my second question is for Mr. Fortin and Ms. Spinks.
Mr. Fortin, given all the problems with the system that has been put in place and their impact on the cultural industries, do you think it would be easier for artists in Quebec and elsewhere if there were a universal benefit? That would avoid all the problems you just mentioned.
Second, regarding the banking system, credit card companies and banks are setting extraordinarily high interest rates, even though the Bank of Canada has lowered its key interest rate. So there are people who are paying 20% or 25% interest on their debts. Is that a problem for people in the cultural industry, such as musicians?
Should the government take steps to force credit card companies and banks to lower interest rates and allow people to defer mortgage payments?
Next, Ms. Spinks, could you tell us about the impact of financial stress on people's lives?
I'd like Mr. Fortin to answer first.