Mr. Chair, our government is working on developing new economic relationships with the United States, in addition to diversifying our economy through various partnerships around the world. On the issue of the United States, I believe that, yes, we need a new agreement with the U.S., but one that truly meets the needs of our industries and the interests of Canadians and workers. We must not sign an agreement at any cost.
In the meantime, our government is there for all workers and affected businesses. As I mentioned in my speech, we have set up a $5-billion strategic response fund that will enable affected sectors to pivot, adapt and diversify. We are here during this period of economic uncertainty to truly support the hardest-hit sectors, whether it be the automotive sector we are discussing tonight or the softwood lumber sector, which affects my riding of Madawaska—Restigouche in particular.