Thank you very much.
Thank you very much, Minister, for returning to this committee.
Your opening is just beyond rich. I'm going to read some facts to you about your government, Minister, that I'm sure you're very well aware of. CEBA reported yesterday that $3.5 billion in funds were awarded to those who should not have received them. We've had the arrive scam scandal, and a $9-million NYC condo. This is the most expensive government in the history of Canada. You're coming here and accusing us of playing political games at a time when your government has been completely irresponsible.
As I've said repeatedly in this committee, you are the one, Minister, who holds the purse strings. I'm actually shocked that the Prime Minister gave you another job, considering the responsibility you hold as President of the Treasury Board. Your efforts should be entirely focused here, as President of the Treasury Board, on reducing the deficit. I will also remind you that from April to September of this year, the deficit was already $8.2 billion higher than it was the year before. The PBO, who we have coming in the following hour, said that you will miss the deficit target by $6.8 billion.
This is my first question for you: Is this number of $6.8 billion even accurate? Tell us today, Minister: How bad is the number? Tell Canadians.