Thank you very much, Mr. Joseph. I welcome you to this committee, which is crucial to Canada's economy.
As regards Quebec, we are working closely with our counterparts in Quebec, but also with all MPs representing Quebec. I have travelled throughout Canada, including Quebec. There is also the Canada-Quebec Accord relating to Immigration and Temporary Admission of Aliens, which gives Quebec significant responsibilities in the area of immigration.
As regards collaboration with the Government of Quebec, it is for this reason that we have introduced a temporary measure that will allow a targeted number of foreign workers to extend their work permits and contribute to the Quebec economy. As I told you, we have worked extensively with the Government of Quebec and the Quebec Minister of Immigration, but also with Quebec's representative here at the federal government. I also organized a round table with many Quebec businesses, and we heard very clearly that such a measure was necessary. This was an exceptional but limited measure, reserved for temporary foreign workers who, as you said, are addressing labour shortages in essential sectors where employers have indicated they wish to work on a long-term basis. We will continue to listen and work with the Quebec government, as well as with employers and the people of Quebec.
I invite you to contact me if you have any needs in your regions as well.