Mr. Speaker, the international day for the elimination of poverty provides an opportunity for all Quebecers to take a moment to reflect on the dramatic living conditions of some of our fellow citizens.
Nearly a million and a half Quebecers live below the poverty line. We live in a province that suffers from the highest rate of poverty in Canada, by far. Despite all the efforts of the Government of Quebec, one child in five in Quebec comes from a poor family. Quebec seniors continue to be much poorer than seniors anywhere else in Canada. We are struggling with a huge problem that is tearing us apart.
Quebec must become sovereign so its government will have the means to combat poverty effectively. This is why Quebecers will vote yes.