As has been pointed out, companies in Quebec, Ontario and across Canada are making masks. Even though we need to set an example for the Canadian economy, we're using masks manufactured abroad and not at home. We aren't asking to change all mask supply contracts in Canada. At the very least, we're asking that our masks be made at home.
The masks that we make here help maintain jobs in a new time of uncertainty. They help protect people better because our standards are high, strict and recognized. I would be surprised if, in spite of this, a country decides to take us to court to ensure that we use masks made in China or in another country, masks that don't generate any economic benefits in our country, because we aren't manufacturing them. Ultimately, the truck drivers are the only ones who provide an economic benefit by transporting the masks.
However, masks manufactured in Ontario, Alberta, Quebec or other parts of Canada have direct, indirect and induced effects. We must take this into consideration in our decision‑making process.
We want to help our people, our economy and our economic recovery. We could do so by setting an example for everyone. Today, in Quebec alone, there are 2,800 new cases. Let's make sure that this rapid spread, which is worse than what we've seen in the past, doesn't keep increasing and doesn't become more serious. Let's use safe masks with recognized efficacy and manufacturing standards. That's what's required. I don't think that we need to call witnesses and officials so that they notice that the masks are made in China. In my humble opinion, we don't need to spend two or three meetings on this issue in January. It would delay our work.
Furthermore, the amendment that I read was drafted quickly and the notions are repeated. I'm criticized for wanting to include the two nations that currently make up Canada at this time, meaning the Quebec nation and the Canadian nation. I could also have added the first nations, which are also part of Canada. That said, the thing that I'm being criticized for is also found in the proposed motion.
For all these reasons, I can't support the proposals of my Liberal colleagues.