Mr. Speaker, as chair of the Liberal aerospace caucus, I would like to give a warm welcome to the Aerospace Industries Association of Canada, which is hosting aerospace day on the Hill, today.
The aerospace sector is one of Canada's most innovative, export-oriented sectors. It is made up of 700 businesses, and represents more than 180,000 quality jobs. It contributes over $29 billion to our GDP and the Canadian economy every year.
The Canadian aerospace industry is a large economic driver in our country. It includes engineering, manufacturing, and in-service support for everything from planes to helicopters to satellites, spaceships, and more.
The aerospace industry is not only a passion of mine, but it is an important part of the innovation agenda and an integral part of Canada's economy.
I thank the AIAC and welcome it to Parliament Hill today.