Mr. Speaker, this government promised jobs, jobs, jobs. It has not delivered.
The unemployment rate remains above 9 per cent after three years of economic recovery. I blame this dismal record on the government's failure to deal with labour market problems.
Our employment insurance system subsidizes permanently seasonal industries. Premiums, known to kill jobs, are too high. Our high marginal income tax rates drive abroad the most skilled and entrepreneurial Canadians. Our high capital gains and corporate taxes push investment abroad.
Small business, the Canadian job creation machine, is held back by red tape and excessive taxation. Large business is discouraged from hiring labour by too much regulation and legislated wages.
High unemployment can be cured. The evidence from around the world is clear. Shame on this government for not acting.