There's no question that women's participation in the workforce is a win on all counts. When women are a part of the workforce, the economy grows stronger and economic gains are made. It's not just morally the right thing to do; it's the economically prudent thing to do.
Canadian women are among the world's most educated. Over the last 40 years, greater participation of women in the workforce has accounted for about one-third of Canada's economic growth. Canada could add an estimated $150 billion to the economy in the next decade by taking steps for greater gender equality in the workforce, so economically there's no question that this is an advantage.
It's also an advantage to women, in terms of providing them with equal pay for work of equal value. Employers, at the end of the day, are going to benefit as well. There's going to be increased productivity, increased retention and, as I just mentioned, increased growth.
This legislation is a win-win. I'm very happy that it's our government that has moved forward with this legislation, and I look forward to its full implementation.