Thank you, Mr. Chairman.
First of all, I just want to express my deep appreciation to all of you for coming and sharing your stories, particularly those of you who have served time. It takes a lot of courage and I think it also shows Parliament and the Canadian public the success stories that occur in our corrections system. I think it's really important to hear from people like you who are doing so well in your lives. I commend you all.
One thing I've heard the government say quite often--and I might be paraphrasing--is that the best social security program is a job. I've heard the Conservative government say that on many occasions, and I think there's some truth in it. So I've already heard you talk about the importance of a pardon in getting employment, which I think is foundational. There are things, when you come out of prison, that I think you have to access. There's housing, there are mental health services, there are addiction services, there's connecting with community and family, and there are all sorts of really important things. But I think getting a job is one of the most critical pieces in helping to rebuild your life.
I'd like to hear briefly from each of you about how much difficulty you had getting a job and where a pardon fits in that process for you.