Thank you, Mr. Chair.
Mr. Lavoie, you talked about the difficulties some private companies could have in securing financing and the fact that the BDC and EDC could in part remedy that. Four years ago, Mr. Laurin talked about the same difficulties when he discussed the automotive product supply chain, among other things.
Of course, I can't help but think about other government decisions that could complicate matters. One of the things I am thinking of is the federal government's abandonment of the credit for labour-sponsored funds. Those funds, which are very important in Quebec, were rather effective, especially in terms of long-term support. However, long-term support for company activities is probably the most difficult approach.
The BDC will be able to invest in venture capital funds internationally, but that will absolutely not make up for the loss we may have to contend with.
Given the government's other plans, do you think the BDC's new plan would have been a worthwhile addition when it came to maintaining the credit for labour-sponsored funds? Do you think it will be possible to replace what we are losing in the short term?