Committee members, we'll reconvene the meeting for the second-hour portion.
Welcome to the meeting, Minister Gould. Before we begin, I'd like to make a few comments.
As you are aware, witnesses can choose to speak in the official language of their choice. If there's an issue with the translation, please get my attention and we'll suspend while it's clarified. I would also advise those appearing to direct their questions through the chair. We will later proceed with rounds of questioning.
Again, I want to welcome Minister Karina Gould, Minister of Families, Children and Social Development, and from the department welcome Lori MacDonald, senior associate deputy minister; Peter Simeoni, assistant deputy minister; and Evelyne Power, director general.
Welcome to the committee. I believe the minister will start with a five-minute opening statement, following which we'll open the floor to questions.
Madam Minister, you have the floor.