Human Resources committee  It is not appropriate for me to talk about recommendations. The government's fiscal policy is a matter for the Department of Finance.

Human Resources committee  The purpose of the measure to maintain the current premium level is to avoid an increase which may have an impact on the economy.

Human Resources committee  And labour.

Human Resources committee  Without the premium-freezing measure, employment insurance revenue would total an additional $4.5 billion. So there is a lot more revenue to fund the system.

Human Resources committee  The minister and his staff held a number of consultations.

Human Resources committee  I'm not in a position to comment on the policy choices that were made between different measures, but I would indicate that, as noted in my remarks, the estimated cost associated with the extension of the five weeks is $1.15 billion over two years. That would be the amount of sti

Human Resources committee  I think that you're referring to the initiative for the workers.

Human Resources committee  The budget contains a funding increase for the Targeted Initiative for older workers.

Human Resources committee  The current annual funding is $50 million. It used to be $30 million, but with the new investment, it's $50 million per year.

Human Resources committee  Thank you, Mr. Chair and members of the human resources standing committee. I'm pleased to have this opportunity to appear before you today. As noted, my name is Paul Thompson. I'm the associate assistant deputy minister for the skills and employment branch, Department of Human