Michael Savage at the Human Resources, Skills and Social Development and the Status of Persons with Disabilities Committee

Thank you, Chair.

Thanks to all of you. Those were wonderful presentations on the issues of poverty here in New Brunswick.

Lillian, I had to laugh when you said something to the effect that you didn't feel qualified to give advice. I think you've given us good advice. Stepping in and doing work in the community is about as good advice as we can get. It indicates to us where the gaps are.

I have some short snappers this time. I just want to go through them based on your presentations.

I'll start with Phyllis.

I was surprised to hear you mention student loan debt right off the bat. I do a lot of work on the post-secondary side, and there are student loan organizations, such as the Coalition for Student Loan Fairness, and a fellow named Julian Benedict out in B.C. There are CFS, CASA, and all the student organizations.

I'm surprised to hear you indicate that education, and specifically student loan debt, is that important. But what is the solution to that? Is it to reduce student loan interest rates? Is it to eliminate interest? Is it to extend the grace period? Do you have any specific suggestions?