Of course, as I have said, the government made the decision to change the long questionnaires in order to protect Canadians who worry about the penalties provided for in this act.
Of course, I am aware that Statistics Canada recommended the status quo. It is true and it is important to acknowledge it. But our government chose an approach directed at striking a fair balance between the burden placed on Canadians and the needs of data users. In my opinion, it is a fine balance.
However, it is important to specify that the long questionnaire is no longer mandatory since the situation changed. That is why I asked Statistics Canada to weigh the options. We have chosen one of the options provided by Statistics Canada to address our concerns and those of all Canadians.