Thank you, Mr. Chair.
I want to start by acknowledging all the guests who have come to speak. It's always very informative.
My questions are for Ms. Higgins from Oxfam Canada.
I'll pick up from where you left off in the discussion with Mr. Fraser.
In Quebec, we have a family policy with subsidized early childhood centres. Studies show that this pays off for the government. The investment in the early childhood centres and in the entire family policy results in a higher rate of participation of women in the labour market. These women then pay more taxes. This not only creates social change in the very structure of society, it pays off, even though it requires money up front.
If the federal government were to implement this type of program, we would ask for a right to opt out with full compensation for Quebec. This would enable Quebec to improve its system, which is already working.
I've said enough.
Ms. Higgins, I want you to elaborate on your request for changes to employment insurance.
In concrete terms, what are you suggesting and what can be changed?
Is it the waiting periods, the premium rates or the number of hours?
I'd like you to elaborate on the changes that you're asking for.