Madam Speaker, it is a privilege to rise again today in the House to talk about this important issue. As always, my colleague is very passionate in the House.
Since 9/11 we have seen a lot of things happen to the world. The aerospace industry in particular has been hard hit. Here are some simple facts. Over 35 major international airlines have gone bankrupt since 9/11, and those jobs in Canada have dropped by 13,000 to approximately 40,000, a drop of about 25%. We are looking at specific circumstances that have really made the industry capitulate in unusual ways. It is important to recognize that we need a specific plan that is transparent and accountable to the Canadian public. Similar to that with Ottawa, I have been arguing as well.
I have a question for my colleague. I believe this is an issue for Canada. My colleague has done a good job of talking about the effects on Quebec and how evolved this industry is there, but I know that in other parts of Ontario and also in the rest of the country there is very much a connectedness to this particular problem we are facing. We have to ensure that whatever we do we are going to roll out a program or changes that will be beneficial for all of Canada, because all the pieces connect to a healthy industry. As the member has demonstrated in his discussion, it is not just one area that is involved. We are facing the world with respect to competition.
I would ask the member to describe the industry's connection to Quebec but also to the rest of Canada.