Thank you, Madam Speaker. Madam Speaker, my question is directed to the Minister of Health and Social Services. Madam Speaker, there is a general perception out there that because social assistance recipients are only allowed so much of the cheque to be cash, spousal assault has gone down; there is less gambling; school attendance is up and children are dressed better. I don't believe so, Madam Speaker. Maybe a small fraction of those who receive social assistance are, in fact, abusing the system.

Madam Speaker, I don't believe in blaming the poor people for this social problem. Is the Minister willing to give more autonomy and flexible decision-making to the local appeal committees and social workers who know best in the system? Thank you.