Thank you for that very important question.
Let me say thank you, first and foremost, to this incredible committee, which I know did relentless work to make the Canada disability benefit legislation a reality. It is also because of the tireless advocacy of the disability community, which has been working extremely hard for many decades to make this a reality for so many Canadians.
Let me also be very clear: Getting the Canada disability benefit right, and getting it out as quickly as possible, is a top priority of mine in this mandate.
Mr. Van Bynen, as you know, since the Canada disability benefit received royal assent in June 2022, we have been doing extensive consultations with the disability community, particularly on the design and regulations of this benefit. I, myself, met with many persons with disabilities. As you can imagine, there is a lot of diversity in the group. It's about making sure we're looking at it with that intersectionality, particularly when we talk to women with disabilities, youth with disabilities and seniors with disabilities. It's very important that we get a diverse perspective and ensure we get this benefit right, in the true spirit of “nothing without us”.
As we speak, right now.... I want to say November 21 was the date when we launched the public online consultations, which are fully accessible. They are open right now. I hope all Canadians, particularly those with disabilities, will participate in this very important work. We need to make sure we can hear as many perspectives as possible, in order to get this benefit out right.
Tony, we remain absolutely committed to the original timelines. This act, as you know, must come into force by June 2024, and regulations must be in place by June 2025. I'm absolutely committed to getting this right, as quickly as possible.