Mr. Speaker, on January 11, I notified you in writing that pursuant to Standing Order 52, I would ask you to agree to an emergency debate today on the forestry and manufacturing crisis that, as we know, has been going on for many months in Canada and especially in Quebec. This debate would focus on the government's response to that crisis.
I am therefore making that request now. I am asking you to recognize that an emergency debate is essential today, because there is urgency. I will make four brief points.
There is urgency first because of the need to address an issue that is like a natural disaster, because all the people working in the forestry and manufacturing industries are in the same situation as people affected by ice storms, floods or forest fires. Here too, we are faced with human drama with disastrous, devastating consequences.
Second, the forestry crisis is affecting thousands of people across Canada.
Third, parliamentarians, who represent all Canadians, need to put targeted assistance in place for a targeted problem—today.
Fourth and finally, parliamentarians must hold a debate today and find a solution today for a problem that should have been dealt with months ago.
Thank you, Mr. Speaker, for listening to me. I hope you will grant my request.