Thank you, Mr. Chair and Mr. Bachrach.
I know this is yet another issue that you've demonstrated leadership on for a while. You and I have spoken about this, and you've raised this question, understandably so.
I agree with you on the principle that there are communities that are underserved today. There are many Canadians who depend on intercity bus services that, unfortunately, are not as available as they used to be before. That concerns me.
To answer your question on what leadership the federal government has taken in this, I have personally written to all of my provincial ministers. Let me step back. I know it's not always great to hear this, but as you know intercity bus transportation is a provincial matter. However, I've written and expressed the willingness of the federal government to work collaboratively with provinces on any initiative or projects they may have to address this gap. The Province of British Columbia had a project. We partnered with them. We provided support to address this gap.
I will repeat, while it is constitutionally the responsibility of the provinces, we are more than willing to partner and collaborate with provinces on addressing this gap. I've not heard back from any provincial minister about any ideas they may have.
I'll continue to work with you. I know you're reaching out to your provincial counterparts. Across the country I think Canadians should write to their MPP or MLA or MNA to express their needs.
I repeat that the federal government is willing to collaborate and partner with provinces in addressing this gap.