Madam Chair, the same principle applies with NDP-4, NDP-5 and NDP-6, under different categories. I will make the same argument as I previously did about the GST exemption date.
I hope committee members will reconsider this, because a lot of the people who, for example, enter into pre-sales would not qualify for this at a time when affordability is absolutely critical. This is not just about facilitating a process; it's also about creating housing that's affordable so people can get into the market.
GST is often applied at the time of closing. Let's say I buy a cellphone. At the time of purchase, when I go to pay the cashier, I pay the GST and then I take the phone home. That should apply for housing as well.
Regarding the notion that it will somehow be a cost to the treasury, it will be a minimal cost, if that. The concept of the application, whether it applies at the time of signing or at the time of purchase, is essentially the same.
In any case, if the Conservative, Bloc and Liberal members want to ensure affordability for homebuyers, applying the GST exemption at the time of closing will make a difference to the homebuyers.