I'm going to start.
Mr. Chair and hon. members, allow me to introduce myself. My name is Maxime Dorais, co-executive director of the Union des consommateurs. I am accompanied by William Courchesne, who is an attorney and consumer protection analyst with the organization.
I would like to point out that our participation in these proceedings is made possible in part by funding from the office of consumer affairs, which the government has announced will soon be abolished. This program has enabled us to publish a comprehensive study on connected cars and repair issues, which Mr. Threadgill has just discussed with the committee.
I would like to thank hon. Xavier Barsalou‑Duval for inviting us to appear before the committee to share our comments on Bill C‑267.
Allow me to briefly introduce Union des consommateurs. We represent 16 consumer advocacy associations, primarily in Quebec but also in Ontario. Our mission is to promote and defend the rights of Canadian consumers, with a special focus on low-income households.
In addition to conducting research and raising public awareness, particularly through the media, Union des consommateurs initiates class-action lawsuits to support consumers and advance their rights. For example, you may have heard about Air Canada, which appeared before the Supreme Court last Friday.
The organization supports the bill's overall objective. Electronics and essential household appliances represent significant expenses for households, particularly those with modest incomes. The manufacture and sale of appliances that last longer and can be repaired when they break down should be encouraged. That, in itself, is the starting point. Durability and repairability are economic, environmental and consumer protection issues.
I now turn the floor over to my colleague William Courchesne.