Thank you, Mr. Chair.
I'd like to propose a motion:
That, pursuant to Standing Order 108(2), the committee undertake a study on the difficulties that seniors face in rural Canada; that the committee invite experts and departmental officials to testify; that the committee hold at least five meetings; that the committee report its findings and recommendations to the House; and that, pursuant to Standing Order 109, the committee request that the government table a comprehensive response to the report.
Mr. Chair, I grew up on a 50-acre farm just outside of London, Ontario, and I know that the social network and support programs in rural communities are substantially different from those in urban areas. For that reason, I think this type of study would help level the playing field and provide some consideration to people who need support, particularly the support that's been identified as a result of the COVID pandemic. I think that has aggravated the situation and that it's an opportune time for us to take a look at how that can be righted.