Mr. Speaker, today marks the beginning of Small Business Week, a time to recognize the entrepreneurs whose hard work and determination drive Canada's economy and strengthen communities across the country. As a former business owner, I know that running a business is also about giving back to the community. For eight years, I served as president of the White Rock Business Improvement Association, working alongside local entrepreneurs to build stronger, more self-reliant communities we all call home.
Small and medium-sized businesses account for 99% of Canadian businesses and employ approximately 64% of Canada's private sector workforce. Every dollar spent at a local business supports owners, workers and communities. Small businesses are the backbone of our country. Today they face unjustified U.S. tariffs designed to weaken our economy and undermine our independence. To the entrepreneurs of South Surrey—White Rock and across the country, I give my thanks for their determination and their resilience and for keeping Canada strong.