I do understand the separate contribution side. I think the problem with EI right now is that it all goes into general revenue and then it may operate as an individual program within the Department of Finance, but I do not believe it operates independently like the Canada pension plan.
If, in fact, we have this huge debt in EI and if the program does in some fashion operate somewhat independently with five-twelfths of the amount coming from workers and seven-twelfths from employers, if we're going to try to clear off that debt, we're likely to see what I would call another tax. If EI premiums go up for both employers and employees to try to pay off this debt, that's going to be a significant hit to both workers and businesses.
Would you agree?