Thank you, Mr. Chair.
Thanks to Madam Minister, her staff in the room, and all those who are not here but are on the front line working diligently. I have to say that Service Canada employees in my riding of Kelowna—Lake Country have done a stellar job. Throughout our country I think all the staff are working 110% at the programs we have in place. The coming programs will be even more onerous on their time demands, so we thank them in advance for the work they will be doing.
A lot of good things have happened with the programs in place. In 2007 we saw a downturn in several sectors in communities across the country. In the manufacturing sector they've been working with the work share program. It's been well received, and the extension of 14 weeks is greatly appreciated.
Like my colleagues around the table, we had round tables in the community. The extension of EI and the work share program were front and centre. The Canada disability savings program was also well received by parents whose children have disabilities. They now have a chance to leave behind a legacy for them. I appreciate the empathy of Madam Minister and all her staff.
One of the concerns in my riding is a housing shortage. I have the highest demographic of seniors of any metropolitan area in the country. In both the supplementary estimates and the economic action plan there are references to funds being allocated to modernize and renovate our existing stock.
I have two quick questions. Can you expand on how these investments will help improve our country's housing situation for those most in need of social and affordable housing? How will these investments help with the economic stimulus that our action plan will deliver on the economy?
Thank you.