Hon. David McGuinty (Ottawa South, Lib.): Mr. Speaker, my question is for the Minister responsible for the Federal Economic Development Agency for Southern Ontario.

Many business owners from my riding of Ottawa South had to close their downtown establishments in the face of the illegal blockades. The occupation carried on for more than 20 days and the cost to local businesses is simply staggering.

Could the Minister please update this House on what measures the government is taking to help these very hard-hit small businesses?