When our government took office in 2018, we inherited the most regulations of any jurisdiction in the world—380,000 regulations. Regulations are a necessary part of our society, obviously, but we also don’t want to overburden businesses and the health care sector.

We are currently proposing, in this bill, to streamline the submission requirements for generic drugs, to improve treatment options for Ontarians who rely on life-saving drugs. As it stands right now, when a company wants to get funding or have their product designated as interchangeable, they need to complete new clinical trials; even if these products have been approved in Canada by the federal government for decades, this could take years to do. People who need this life-saving medication don’t have the time to wait.

My question to the member is, as health critic, do you support this initiative to speed up life-saving medications that are already approved and safe in Canada and have been used in Canada for decades? Does that make sense to you?

I rise to recognize the importance of Small Business Week, celebrated from October 15 to 21. Even though that was last week, our small businesses should be remembered all the time, as they play a crucial role in driving our local economy.

I was once a small business entrepreneur.

In York region, more than 84% of our businesses are classified as small businesses, highlighting their contribution to the region’s prosperity. They are the heart and soul of our community, fostering job growth. It is the backbone of businesses in Richmond Hill.

I’m delighted to share the success of the fourth annual Entrepreneurship Finance Conference, hosted by city of Richmond Hill economic development on October 19. This virtual conference provided entrepreneurs with insight into capital and financial resources through interactive sessions and professional advice. The Honourable Nina Tangri, Associate Minister of Small Business, attended the conference.

Our government supports them and continues to cut red tape to save businesses time and cost.

Let’s continue to champion the over 400,000 small businesses in Ontario, ensuring they have the support and resources that they need to grow and thrive.

Thank you to the member from Niagara Falls. I understand and hear that you advocate for the winery business in Niagara Falls. Our government always supports all the businesses and that’s why we have this less-red-tape bill. This is the second bill that we are proceeding on and we know that this is a process and we know what you are asking for is getting there, as well.

But my question for you is, we’ve now achieved over $939 million in savings a year and we’re going to continue moving forward with the important work, and part of that is what you’ve just asked for. Would the member support these continued efforts to make it easier for people and businesses to work with the government?