Government Operations committee  There is no trend. There hasn't been a decrease, but there is no trend upwards or downwards.

Government Operations committee  Yes. We try to make it so that when the cheque is in the mail, it's actually in the mail. We're working with the Comptroller General at Treasury Board, who sets the policy framework for financial management, to drive home the point that we have to make our payments quickly. Ther

Government Operations committee  No, the program is managed so as to target small businesses specifically. Someone who phones to obtain information can also use the website. In fact, anyone can use it. The program is structured so as to reach entrepreneurs who don't have time to access our services during the da

Government Operations committee  I would simply like to add that the program is managed so as to have us be present in communities, and we conduct seminars there outside of business hours. The businesses are targeted by this program, which is structured to help small entrepreneurs who do not have the necessary t

Government Operations committee  No, we do not anticipate cuts in agencies that support SMEs. The cuts are in services that have run their course and are no longer used.

Government Operations committee  Certainly; but the Office of Small and Medium Enterprises is not affected by the strategic review.

Government Operations committee  In response to that question, I should say that we award close to 70% of contracts to SMEs. In fact, these contracts are lower in value and, for the most part, are worth over $1 million. Actually, the Department of Public Works and Government Services is spending $5.2 billion, f

Government Operations committee  Thank you, Mr. Chair. Good afternoon. I am pleased to appear before you today to discuss one of the programs within my organization, the Office of Small and Medium Enterprises. I am Pablo Sobrino, the associate assistant deputy minister responsible for the acquisitions branch