Thank you, Mr. Chairman.
Minister, I thank you for appearing before our committee. You and I were both elected in 1993, so we have known each other for a few years. You know full well how committees operate. Given that I want to take full advantage of your presence, my questions will be brief.
I would like to ask you some questions regarding the infrastructure program because it can be said that, in terms of numbers, the problem is all the more glaring in Quebec. I think you can appreciate that. You presented the situation in the provinces, from west to east. On a number of occasions, in the House, I have asked you questions and you have responded that the shortage of pipes, contractors and labour are anecdotal.
What am I to garner from your most recent response to Mr. McCallum? If the Government of Quebec submits specific cases to you... In the House, in response to my questions, you talk of flexibility. I, unlike the Liberals, do not agree with a six-month extension of the program across the board, as I am not convinced that is what we need.
However, would your officials be prepared, if need be, to assess on a case-by-case basis the situation in municipalities that are having some difficulties completing the work? Perhaps it is a matter of one, two, three or even seven months. That is what I, personally, would consider flexibility.