Mr. Speaker, I would like to recognize and applaud the aggressive approach the city of North York is taking in establishing the North York Small Business Centre.
Canadians realize that the small business sector now accounts for over half of all private sector employment. They understand, as this government does, that the impact of small business on the
Canadian economy is profound. Small business will be relied upon for economic growth and job creation.
This government promised to focus on a jobs and growth agenda. The Minister of Industry's plan calls for partnerships among all Canadians and their institutions-businesses, unions, professional associations, interest groups and governments-to facilitate and create jobs and growth in the private sector.
The North York Small Business Centre realizes that growing new businesses is important, that new business people need help in marketing themselves and simply need some encouragement.
I would like to pay tribute to Mr. Lincoln Allen, the executive director, and all of the centre's staff and wish them success.
[Translation]