Mr. Speaker, I want to take this opportunity to point out that this is Quebec week for retail trade.
The retail industry is a key player in Quebec's economic development. It is currently estimated that over 500,000 Quebecers work in that very aggressive and competitive sector.
Annual sales in the wholesale and retail sector exceed $50 billion, or slightly more than 12 per cent of Quebec's GDP.
Over the last few days, various activities and events took place throughout the province to celebrate the week for retail trade. I join promoters, participants and customers in congratulating entrepreneurs who constantly strive to provide quality products to enhance the well-being of consumers.