Thank you, Mr. Chair.
Thank you, Minister, for taking the time to join us today, and, of course, thanks to all of your department officials.
My question is regarding the construction industry and how it plays an essential role in Canada's economy, employing nearly 1.5 million people. As you know, the region I'm from—Richmond, British Columbia, and the greater Vancouver region—has a large segment of this construction industry.
In December of last year, PSPC introduced the Federal Prompt Payment for Construction Work Act. Can you briefly explain the importance of prompt payment for the industry and how this legislation will achieve that? I hear from a lot of construction industry associations on this matter. It's very important to them.