Thank you very much, Mr. Bernier.
Before I put some questions to the two witnesses, I would like to mention a few things.
Your work, your research and the role you play already help to ensure Canada's sovereignty in the Arctic. Your work is extremely important, and this is as true of the scientific research that you are carrying out with ArcticNet as it is of your efforts to set up a research and study centre in the High Arctic. This is much to your credit. The quality of your responses and the depth of your comments prove that your work will indeed be valuable to us.
My first question is for Mr. Poelzer.
Sir, of the three considerations, namely defence, the increase in regional capabilities and the sense of belonging and recognizing the North as a Canadian value, I want to focus on defence. I'd like to hear more from you about our requirements.
You spoke about being able to navigate in these waters and to ensure Canada's sovereignty in the High Arctic on a year-round basis. Somewhat more specific questions have been raised about the type of icebreaker Canada possesses.
Do you think it is important for Canada to have ships capable of navigating these waters twelve months of the year? What combination of vessels, of security, air surveillance and rescue services would you like to see in place?
I'll come back to Mr. Byers if I have any time remaining.