Thank you very much, Madam Chair.
Thanks to both of you for being here.
I have many questions. Some are from before, and some are on your representation, Ms. Laurendeau.
You commented at the beginning that it's sometimes difficult to read what's written for you, and I must confess that I'm having some difficulty understanding some of what's been written for you. I'll come back to that.
You talk about Manitoba, Ontario, and Quebec. From everything I know about those provinces, this legislation is not consistent with theirs. In the short time we have I'd like you to identify both the similarities and the differences.
We know there was no consultation prior to the implementation of this act and pay equity within the budget. You ended your comments by indicating that the regulations will be developed through a consultative process that will give greater definition and clarity to the terms. I'd like to know a little more about that.
There are a couple of points in here that I just don't understand, such as number 13, and particularly number 14. You cited in number 12 some studies that recommend pay equity through collective bargaining. Many studies and many of the presentations we've had here at the committee speak out against pay equity as part of the collective bargaining process. Were they considered when this matter was developed?
I have more, but I'll see how much time I have left.