I call this meeting to order.
Good afternoon, everyone.
Welcome to meeting number 38 of the House of Commons Standing Committee on the Status of Women.
Today's meeting is taking place in a hybrid format, pursuant to the Standing Orders. Members are attending in person in the room and remotely using the Zoom application.
If you wish to speak, please raise your hand. For those on Zoom, please use the raise hand function.
A reminder that all comments should be addressed through the chair. Thank you in advance for your co-operation.
Pursuant to Standing Order 81(4), the committee is commencing consideration of the main estimates 2026-27: votes 1 and 5 under the Department for Women and Gender Equality, referred to the committee on Thursday, February 26, 2026. The committee will vote on these motions at the end of the meeting.
I would now like to welcome our witnesses.
From the Department for Women and Gender Equality, we have the Honourable Rechie Valdez, MP, Minister of Women and Gender Equality and secretary of state, small business and tourism; Ms. Frances McRae, deputy minister; and Ms. Gail Mitchell, assistant deputy minister, who will be with us for the second hour.
From the Department of Industry, I would like to welcome Mr. Etienne‑René Massie, assistant deputy minister, small business, tourism and marketplace services.
The minister will be with us for the first part of today's meeting. The deputy minister and assistant deputy ministers will be with us for the full two hours.
Minister, you know the drill for our meetings. As you know, you will be given a maximum of five minutes for your remarks, after which we will proceed to a round of questions.
You have the floor, Minister.