Welcome to meeting number 36 of the House of Commons Standing Committee on Finance.
Today's meeting is taking place in a hybrid format, pursuant to the Standing Orders.
Before we continue, I'll ask all in-person participants to consult the guidelines written on the cards on the table. These measures are in place to help prevent audio feedback incidents and to protect the health and safety of all participants, including the interpreters.
I would like to remind participants of the following points.
Please wait until I recognize you by name before speaking. For those participating via video conference, click on the microphone icon to activate your mic, and please mute yourself when you are not speaking.
For those on Zoom, at the bottom of your screen, you can select the appropriate channel for interpretation: floor, English or French. For those in the room, you can use the earpiece and select the desired channel.
Pursuant to Standing Order 108(2) and the motion adopted by the committee on Monday, March 9, the committee is commencing its study of federal spending power.
I would like to welcome our witnesses.
As individuals, we have Jennifer Robson, associate professor at Carleton University, and Tammy Schirle, professor in the department of economics at Wilfrid Laurier University. From the Montreal Economic Institute, we have Daniel Dufort, president and chief executive officer, and Gabriel Giguère, senior policy analyst.
We will commence with you, Ms. Robson. Every witness has five minutes.
Thank you.