Senator Plett, I think I was clear in my response the day after the question-and-answer exchange, and I’ll try to be clear again. I do not believe — it was certainly not my intent, nor do I think it was my words that cast disrespect or lack of sympathy or understanding to those who are facing challenges putting food on their table. I’m not going to continue to remind this chamber that, at least from my point of view, the government that I represent and myself personally are trying as best as we can to answer your questions, however you frame them, factually and on the basis of policy. In that respect, again, I stand by what I said and by the commitment of this government to help Canadians in need.

Senator Plett, again, you are stating what is not true. I have enormous respect, sympathy and empathy for each and every Canadian who is struggling, as too many are. I stand by that, and no amount of your innuendos changes how I feel and how this government is acting on behalf of Canadians.

Leader, as Senator Plett just mentioned, the annual HungerCount report from Food Banks Canada was released yesterday. According to this report, my province of British Columbia saw food bank usage increase by 15% over the past year, more than double the national increase of 6%. As well, over 23% of food bank users in B.C. are people with jobs. This is higher than the percentage of food bank users who are on social assistance, those on disability-related income supports or those who are jobless. Please think about that for a moment, leader. If your government’s plans are working, then why are a quarter of B.C.’s food bank users people who have jobs?

Senator, thank you for your question. The use of food banks has risen dramatically in my province as well. It is a problem across the country. This government has never denied it, nor have I in this chamber. This government has focused, in large measure, on concrete measures to help Canadians get through the affordability crisis. In addition to the provisions and support that it has provided for Canadians directly in regard to their pocketbooks, the government has also expanded significantly, and importantly, the social safety net which contributes to the well-being of families, with programs like the Canada Child Benefit, a National School Food Program, $10‑a‑day early learning and child care and national dental care. These are all concrete measures that contribute to help Canadians weather the challenging times that they face.

Yes, but the fact is your government has created this crisis. The report also shows that 67% of food bank users in B.C. over the past year are renters. As we know, rent has doubled under the NDP-Liberal government. It is heartbreaking that so many Canadians cannot afford food and housing at the same time. Even those with a job cannot make ends meet. When will Canadians get the carbon tax election that is so clearly needed?

We’re getting poorer.

The decision whether and when to have an election is largely in the hands of elected officials in the other place and the government. This government will continue to apply itself, whether it is to building — with serious policy — more affordable housing, continue to provide support to renters and continue to do its part, along with municipalities and provinces, to address the affordability issues that are plaguing this country.