Madam Chair, I would like to make a few opening remarks to emphasize how central today's process is to our political system.
Members will recall that the Patriotes fought for a truly democratic and accountable government, by virtue of which the legislative assembly grants the government credits, which it must justify before the assembly members.
Having served for over a dozen years, first in the Quebec National Assembly, then in the House of Commons, I know that the process is somewhat symbolic in nature here, in Ottawa, but this does not make it any less important. Also, I wish to thank the Minister of Foreign Affairs for being here today and for his comments so far.
If I may, I will start by saying that, since taking office in 2015, this government has consistently promoted multilateralism and international co-operation, and yet, curiously, the budget for development, peace and security programs is being cut to the tune of $783,280,420. Meanwhile, needs in these areas have clearly increased internationally and could grow further still over the next year.
How does the government explain this massive cut to international development?