Thank you, Mr. Bachand.
I agree with you on what you say about negotiating power, but I think that this decision is not final. Still, this is not my decision to make but rather that of the Minister of Defense, and it will be presented to Cabinet.
I know, contrary to reports in the paper today, that there was a great deal of time and effort put into these procurement projects, and there were many who expressed interest. But you really would have to take this up with Minister O'Connor, as to the final decision. I'm not going to speculate on the contract itself, but ITAR's issue is one that has always been a factor.
We want to and we will maximize the benefits to Canada. We will ensure that Canadian jobs, Canadian technology, and Canadian innovation will be part of this procurement. To that extent, I know we have officials who had been specifically given that instruction as part of these negotiations and part of the bidding process. We'll make sure we get the best equipment possible for our troops. And just like you when you were buying your first car, we're going to check under the hood.