We would like to see structural change and long-term fairness. Some people believe that we are almost out of the financial crisis, but that is simply magical thinking. We are far from being out of it, despite what you hear. The economic crisis can be felt in every region, not only in the regions of Quebec, but throughout Canada as well. The country's economic situation will be such that in a few years, the poorest will need even more support from government.
Mr. Godin, as we speak, only one unemployed worker out of five is potentially eligible for benefits. This represents 571,469 unemployed workers who paid into the system, who have a valid reason for not holding down a job, but who have not accumulated enough hours to qualify for benefits. About 40% of workers who pay into the employment insurance system do not qualify. Therefore, in answer to your question, I would say that we need long-term structural changes. We cannot come back before the standing committee each year to discuss short-term solutions. I believe that job creation is linked to structural changes in the labour market, to a national employment policy, to a training policy and to the protection of those who are hardest hit, from coast to coast. However, as some people have said, Canada is one of the countries with the lowest benefits.