Mr. Speaker, the secretary of state did not mention anything about EI even though it forms a part of today's opposition day motion. The opposition day motion calls for a reduction in premiums. I think the secretary of state knows that we would advocate an increase on the benefit side so that more people would be eligible.
I would like him to comment on the layoffs in the hospitality industry. In the province of Ontario, the prediction is that over 80% of all the employees in the hospitality industry in downtown Toronto will be laid off this winter and less than 15% of them will qualify for EI benefits.
Would the hon. secretary of state admit that the system is not working as it should for unemployed Canadians?