Mr. Speaker, we all know that small businesses exist throughout Canada, both in rural and urban centres.
In Atlantic Canada, small business is the backbone of the economy. It sustains the economy. The majority of small businesses, whether they are in Nova Scotia, New Brunswick or Quebec, is owned by local people employing young people and older people. The businesses have been there a long time, are part of the community and are sustainable.
My question is for the hon. member from Parry Sound-Muskoka. From his experience in the lending side of financial institutions and his experience with the Small Business Loans Act, could he elaborate on the value of small business to the Canadian economy to ensure the money stays in Canada for Canadians and provides a sustainable economy that supports our future?