Mr. Chair, we're talking about older workers; those I saw who were between 55 and 60 years of age didn't consider themselves old. These people also want to work. They've done it all their lives. These are very proud people—and I'm talking here about Quebeckers in the regions. They still have a number of years ahead of them in which they can contribute to the development of Quebec and Canada. What they're asking us is that we help them. They want jobs and know that the forestry sector is changing and evolving. They want us to help them through programs that will enable them to continue working in their regions. That's what we're currently doing.
Last week, I went to Abitibi-Témiscamingue to make a contribution to the Cyclofor company from Regional Economic Development Canada. That company has developed equipment that can gather forestry biomass following cutting. That biomass goes back to the plant and its bark is stripped once again; white woods are separated from the biomass. A host of other products can be made from that. One million tonnes a year is equal to another 150 jobs for these people. This is a good example of leadership among workers in the forestry regions. The workers we saw were all people 55 years of age.
So these people don't necessarily want programs that will enable them to stay home until they're 65. They're in good shape, want to work and are happy to do so. That's why our government is making available a host of programs that will help establish a new economy in the regions. Developing new products is the future of the forest economy in Quebec and Canada. You yourselves are aware of that, and you agree with me.
The money that we invest in the program that is implemented soon will improve matters. In fact, existing programs have not been used to their full potential. We're open to all requests from workers and we're in all Quebec regions, whether it be Abitibi, Lac-Saint-Jean or the Gaspé Peninsula, and in all the forest regions most affected. Since we've been in power, Economic Development Canada has contributed to 1,300 projects. We're talking about more than two projects a day designed to help manufacturers and workers find new products. That's made it possible to create a lot of jobs. It's also having a snowball effect.
So, Mr. Lessard, I don't understand why you're asking for money so that 55-year-old individuals can sit around waiting to retire. These people want to work. I'm aware of that; that's the message I'm getting from all Quebec regions. These people say that Bloc québécois members want them to stop working. They say they want to work and that they're going to vote for the Conservatives in the next election because it's with them that they're going to be able to develop their country.
Thank you.