Hon. Marc Gold (Government Representative in the Senate): Thank you for the question. The government understands full well that EI benefits must be fairer and better reflect the needs of the Canadian labour force, which is constantly changing. For that reason, it has made a commitment to overhaul Canada’s EI system. Although the temporary support measures implemented under the COVID-19 pandemic assistance program are drawing to a close, workers can continue to receive regular EI benefits, as was the case during the pandemic. The government is looking forward to launching its long-term plan to improve Canada’s EI system.

Senator Forest: Despite the low unemployment rate and the labour shortage in some sectors, the fact remains that certain regions and industries are known for the seasonal nature of their activities. For example, according to Action-Chômage Côte-Nord, 50% of jobs available on the upper and lower north shores are seasonal because of the nature of local economic activity. Does the government understand that by returning to the old EI rules, some seasonal workers, many of whom are mothers and fathers with children, will have no income for two months? What is it going to do to save these families from the EI black hole?

Senator Gold: Thank you for the question, and thank you for noting how important this program is for the well-being of workers and their families. The government is aware of the issue. As I just said, it is working on modernizing the EI system to ensure that it is not only available to those who need it, but equitable for all sectors of our economy.

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