Thank you, Mr. Chairman.
Thank you, gentlemen, for being here via teleconference. I would have liked to have you here in person, but this is the way it is. In certain situations technology enables us to communicate.
As far as the funding of communications is concerned, I have noted some things which, in my opinion, are absolutely horrible. It is almost impossible to believe that communication was not included in the plan which was developed, given that the government bears significant responsibility for the vitality of francophone communities outside Quebec.
Further, I would like to point out that there is federal intrusion in areas of provincial jurisdiction. The government has chosen to fund areas such as health and education, which fall under provincial jurisdiction. Further, the funding given to companies such as Rogers and Transco, amongst others, is much more significant than the funding given to local organizations. These organizations have lost all of their subsidies.
Mr. Bélanger, you talked about how important stable funding was. That's quite understandable: it applies to every organization which receives funding. You also clearly stated that funding was the main problem. However, I would like to know whether you manage to find competent people for the positions you have been forced to fill with volunteers.