Mr. Speaker, here is the proof that this budget fails to meet the needs of Quebeckers. Yesterday, the same day that the budget was passed, the Arbec forestry company laid off nearly 100 workers in Amos.
However, just three weeks ago industry representatives, including representatives from Arbec, were in Ottawa pleading for support. They were asking the federal government to advance them 50% of all future countervailing and anti-dumping duties payable. They also asked for a wage subsidy so that they would not have to lay off workers.
There was nothing for them in the budget and what happened? One hundred workers are losing their livelihoods. What is the government waiting for? When will it take action?