Minister, it would be difficult for me to express a greater level of disappointment than I feel on behalf of Canadians today.
First of all, this year we have a $40-billion deficit, and, as you know, I hold you personally responsible, as you are the one who signs the cheques, who releases the money from the Government of Canada.
Second, we received the report from the Parliamentary Budget Officer regarding the $500 million. The two greatest line items, Minister, are lapsed funds and departmental reserves—hardly new savings, hardly a safe place for Canadians, Minister.
Then, Minister, of course we know today that you released these guidelines because apparently your guidelines of October 5, 2023, didn't work. We also received in the media today the news of $5 million in the first wave—only the first wave—of fraudulent billing found in contracting. We know what's been going on with ArriveCAN scam and GC Strategies. We know what's been going on with Dalian.
I want you to tell Canadians today how many federal employees are also collecting contracts with the federal government. Give me that number, please. How many federal employees are also collecting contracts with the federal government? Do you have that number for me today, please?