I call the meeting to order.
Welcome to meeting number 95 of the House of Commons Standing Committee on Human Resources, Skills and Social Development and the Status of Persons with Disabilities.
Pursuant to the motion adopted on November 27, 2023, the committee is beginning its study of the subject matter of supplementary estimates (B), 2023-24.
Today's meeting is taking place in a hybrid format, meaning that people are participating in person in the room and virtually. You have the option of speaking in the official language of your choice. Interpretation services are available in the room using your headset. Those appearing virtually can click on the icon at the bottom of their screen and choose the language of their choice. If there is an interruption in interpretation, please get my attention and we will suspend while it is being corrected.
I also want to advise committee members to be conscious not to have their mic near their headset or their cellphone. As I found out at the last meeting, that can cause harm to the interpreters. Please keep your headsets and cellphones away from the mics.
I remind you to please direct your questions and comments through the chair.
Appearing this morning, in the first hour, is the Honourable Randy Boissonnault, Minister of Employment, Workforce Development and Official Languages. Welcome, Minister. It's always good to have you here.
We also have the Honourable Kamal Khera, Minister of Diversity, Inclusion and Persons with Disabilities.
As well, from the Department of Employment and Social Development, we have the deputy minister, the chief financial officer and senior assistant deputy minister, and the senior associate deputy minister.
I understand the ministers may choose to give opening comments.
We'll begin with Minister Boissonnault, for five minutes, please.