Thank you, Mr. Chair.
We almost all agree that pension funds and pensions need to be protected. We feel very strongly about that. The government is there to ensure that the rights of workers and pensioners are respected.
In my view, we have a problem, not with all pensions, but rather with defined benefit pension plans. I note that there is already a decline in these kinds of schemes, except for the civil service, and I think that this decline is inevitable because of the risks that these schemes pose. However, that is another topic.
Mr. Lapierre, as you said, a pension is a negotiated and deferred salary. It is therefore important for the government to take the necessary measures to support the pension funds.
However, it is equally important not to accidentally create a situation that could be worse for workers and pensioners. I don't think anyone around the table wants that. I am concerned about one element of this bill. It could prevent the restructuring of certain companies. A company that is heading for bankruptcy can choose to restructure and thereby save current jobs and the pension fund. However, I have heard from witnesses this week that the bill could be problematic in that regard.
Mr. Lapierre, I think you have provided a solution and I want to make sure I understand it. I'm very concerned about the obstacles that might prevent a restructuring from going ahead. You are proposing to keep bank loans in the order of priority, just ahead of the pension funds. In this way, not only would the pensioners move up in the order of priority, but it would also ensure the continued survival of the companies, while also giving priority to the banks. Have I got that right?