Mr. Speaker, this week, Canadians all across the country are celebrating Small Business Week.
As I was an entrepreneur and business owner for many years before running for public office, I know the hard work, dedication and optimism it takes to succeed. I know that small businesses give much to Canadian society and they need government to do its part.
Right now, the Conservative government is not doing enough. Shops near the border are losing customers to the United States, thanks to higher duty-free limits. Hotels near national parks and tourism operators are struggling. The government's payroll tax increases are hurting many small businesses and discouraging them from hiring.
The government does not get it. Small businesses are the engine of our economy and they need government in their corner.
Today, I congratulate everyone who owns, runs or works in a small business for their immeasurable contributions to Canadian life.
I ask all Canadians to remember that if we all shop small it can make a big difference.