Thank you very much for the question. There are a couple of points I want to make.
Easing restrictions to get EI is so important. There's a long lag time between when you're laid off and when you actually get your first paycheque. That waiting period is a real challenge for construction workers. We applaud the government for that initiative, and we support the government for that. Anything to reduce the barriers to entering EI is very important.
Let me also touch on the EI sick benefits. We work with members who have substance abuse problems, mental health problems, and we don't have sick days. When we have problems like that, we don't get a chance to get help, or it's very difficult for us to get help. We often take painkillers or substances that help keep us on the job, and that can lead to big problems within the industry.
For the government to extend the period of sick days is very important, but again, make it easier to get sick days. I think that would go a long way to helping not only with our mental health but also with substance abuse.