Thank you.
Now, I just want to turn to SMEs for a moment if I may, Mr. Minister.
The Chamber of Commerce also pointed out, in their report, the shutting down of the virtual trade commissioner service, which was an online, streamlined, one-stop shop for the trade commissioner service.
I also have spoken to many businesses and exporters, who tell us that it's very helpful for them to have a one-stop shop, particularly for SMEs who don't have big departments. They don't have the staff, the time, or the resources to have a presence in other markets. They want our government to provide them with a streamlined location, preferably online, where they can get the information they need to access those markets. They say that this service, the virtual trade commissioner service, was crucial for SMEs, who find it “difficult to navigate the trade promotion ecosystem.”
The report of the Canadian Chamber went on to say:
Often, they have to visit multiple websites, and speak with several representatives in different departments, before finding the relative solution to their problem. This can be enough to deter them from seeking services in the future.
Can you give us a brief explanation, Mr. Minister, of why the virtual trade commissioner service was closed, if we really want to help SMEs to tap into export markets?