Senator Forest: I have a follow-up question. How do we distinguish between a slap out of love and a spanking? How do we define that?

[English]

Senator Forest: Senator Plett, we will agree that laws are made to protect the weakest individuals from those who might go too far.

The example you gave about your son demonstrates your thoughtful consideration because you explained to him why you wanted to give him a spanking. However, not every father is like you, and your son — who seems quite brilliant — put his arms around your neck knowing that would influence the outcome.

Don’t you believe, when we look at the population in general, that the bill we are studying wouldn’t protect children because action would only be taken if the punishment leaves a mark? There are times when a spanking leaves no mark, for example, when a child is wearing a diaper.

Don’t you think that this bill will end up protecting those who are not as level-headed as you are and don’t have a child as smart as yours?

There may be situations where the father loses his temper and things get out of hand to the point where the child suffers the consequences.

[English]

Hon. Éric Forest: First of all, congratulations on your speech, which is crucial for regions where industry relies heavily on seasonal work, such as fisheries and agriculture.

With regard to the spring gap, we are repeatedly being told that consultations are ongoing and that employment insurance is going to be reformed.

Don’t you think that the danger we’re currently facing — given the scarcity of resources and the fact that we’re competing for skilled labour — is that regions like yours and mine, where workers are tied to seasonal industries, will be taken over by other, more permanent industrial sectors? Don’t you think it is urgent to stop holding consultations and reform employment insurance to take these realities into account?

Hon. Éric Forest: Would Senator Plett agree to answer a question?

[English]