Good morning, everyone.
The clerk has advised me that we have a quorum.
Those appearing virtually have been sound tested except for one witness who we still haven't been able to contact.
With that, I will call to order meeting number 118 of the House of Commons Standing Committee on Human Resources, Skills and Social Development and the Status of Persons with Disabilities.
Before we begin, I will remind all those participating in the room to ensure that, when you are not using your earpiece, you put it face down on the assigned location. Please try to avoid touching the microphone boom while it is live in order to prevent any hearing damage to our interpreters, whom we need to conduct the meeting.
Our committee meeting today is taking place again in a hybrid format pursuant to House of Commons orders. Members are appearing in the room and virtually.
I will remind you all that you have the option to speak in the official language of your choice. In the room, interpretation is available through the microphone and the earpiece. You can select the official language of your choice. For those appearing virtually, you can click on the globe icon at the bottom of your screen and choose the official language of your choice.
If at any time during the meeting there is a loss of translation, please get my attention by using the “raise hand” icon if you're appearing virtually. For those in the room, simply raise your hand to get my attention. We will suspend while it is being corrected.
I will remind you all to please direct all questions and comments through me, the chair. Wait until I recognize you by name as we proceed.
We will begin with the first round. As I indicated, we are still missing one witness, but we will proceed. We will connect with that witness when we can.
Appearing virtually are Tony Irwin, interim president, Canadian Federation of Apartment Associations, and Parisa Mahboubi, senior policy analyst, C.D. Howe Institute.
Our third witness, who we still have not connected with, is Carolyn Hughes, director, Royal Canadian Legion.
We'll begin with Mr. Irwin.
Mr. Irwin, you have five minutes for your opening statement, please.