I call this meeting to order.
Welcome to meeting number 47 of the House of Commons Standing Committee on Finance. Pursuant to the order of reference of May 10, 2022, the committee is meeting on Bill C-19, An Act to implement certain provisions of the budget tabled in Parliament on April 7, 2022 and other measures.
Today's meeting is taking place in a hybrid format, pursuant to the House order of November 25, 2021. Members are attending in person in the room or remotely by using the Zoom application. As per the directive of the Board of Internal Economy on March 10, 2022, all those attending the meeting in person must wear a mask, except for members who are at their place during proceedings.
I'd like to make a few comments for the benefit of the witnesses and members. Please wait until I recognize you by name before speaking. For those participating by video conference, click on the microphone icon to activate your mike, and please mute yourself when you're not speaking. For interpretation, those on Zoom have the choice at the bottom of your screen of either “floor”, “English” or “French”. For those in the room, you can use the earpiece and select the desired channel.
I remind you that all comments should be addressed through the chair. For members in the room, if you wish to speak, please raise your hand. For members on Zoom, please use the “raise hand” function. The clerk and I will manage the speaking order as best we can, and we appreciate your patience and understanding in this regard. I request that members and witnesses mutually treat each other with respect and decorum.
I would now like to welcome today's witnesses.
As an individual, we have Pierre Laliberté, Commissioner for Workers. Welcome.
From the Canadian Federation of Independent Business, we have Corinne Pohlmann, who is the senior vice-president of national affairs and partnerships, and Jasmin Guénette, vice-president of national affairs. Welcome.
From the Quebec Council of Employers, we have Karl Blackburn, president and chief executive officer, and Norma Kozhaya, vice-president of research and chief economist. Welcome.
We will begin with Mr. Laliberté's opening remarks. You have up to five minutes, and the floor is yours.