Thank you, Madam Chair.
Madam Minister, you stated that several billion dollars had been allocated to women. If we take a closer look at Mr. Flaherty's budget, however, we realize that it does not actually contain anything new for women. Given the economic crisis that they have experienced in recent years, I don't think their needs are being adequately considered. Women were the first ones to feel the effects of this crisis and unfortunately, they are still feeling the effects of it more than anyone else today. In a move to streamline operations, the government is planning to cut all departmental budgets significantly.
Are you going to cut funding to women once again, when they have already endured significant cutbacks? A number of agencies have seen their funding slashed in recent budgets.
Furthermore, Madam MInister, would you agree that we need to invest in social structures if we truly want to see improvements on the employment front? In order for women to really have access to the labour market—and they deserve this as much as men—, they must have access to real daycare services.
There is also nothing in the budget for senior women. As I understand it, you have not made any demands in so far as they are concerned. Last December, however, the Standing Committee on the Status of Women tabled a report on women and pensions to the House of Commons. It contained several proactive recommendations regarding women, and in particular recommendations regarding senior women.
As Minister, do you intend to follow up on these recommendations?