Thank you for raising this matter. I'm very pleased to have the opportunity here to clarify the issue once and for all, because it has generated a lot of legitimate concerns because many libraries across the country depend on this program. None of the changes will affect postage rates for libraries or blind people. The program is staying in place.
The preferential rate for libraries has been in place since 1939, with or without legislative protection, and it will continue to exist even with these changes. There are no changes whatsoever. We understand the importance of this program for libraries, especially in smaller communities, where the program provides access to a greater network of libraries at a cost that makes financial sense. That will not change and there will be no change for blind people either. I want to be very clear about that. Canada Post has made that clear, and at Public Services and Procurement Canada, we have also made that clear repeatedly.
With respect to the blind people, and I know that this was not part of your question, but since I have the floor, I'd like to clarify something. Canada is a signatory to an international convention, and the exact name in French escapes me. Perhaps Mr. Ieraci has it but I'll find it later. Be that as it may, Canada is a signatory to this convention. The protection it offers to blind people in terms of Braille materials has been in place since 1898, which is more than 100 years. It was therefore there before there was statutory protection, and that will continue, because we believe it's an important public policy. This is also Canada Post's opinion. There will be no changes. I want to reassure the people in your riding and all Canadians who have expressed concern about this issue.