Mr. Speaker, I would say that the hard negotiations continue at the table and the federal mediators are there to support the parties as they work through these negotiations.
We really have to look at the economic impact that has taken place with respect to the work stoppages and the initiatives that have taken place with respect to the past two and a half years, the economic harm. It is reported that $600 million was lost with respect to the previous strike action that was taken.
In addition to this, it is the health and safety of Canadians. We are looking at workers who are impacted because their work relies on the supply chains, seniors who are waiting for medicines and medical equipment, farmers who are waiting for fertilizer and seed. Therefore, along the whole way we are examining all options. The situation now has come to the point where it is dire, and that is why we are taking this action, but of course we continue to encourage the parties to come to a negotiated agreement at the table, and we have continued to provide the support of a mediation service to do that.