Mr. Speaker, I had the honour of meeting with firefighters from my hometown of Ajax today as firefighters met with parliamentarians from all parts of the country. The work they do protecting us, whether we are in Ajax or Fort McMurray or any part of this country, is deeply valued. We have some of the best trained, most dedicated firefighters in the world. We were incredibly proud to have them and talk to them today.
That is why, in the 2015 election, we promised to create a one-time payment for the surviving family of a fallen first responder, including firefighters. I am proud to say that after extensive consultations, in the 2017 budget we are making good on that promise and setting aside $20 million per year to create a tax-free benefit to support the families of public safety officers who have fallen in the line of duty.
It is an incredibly proud moment for us to see that happen today.