I really find it strange, Mr. Johnson, you would say that, since it was in the press that the minister was fully aware. I would think that if the minister didn't ask whether or not you ever were involved and let go from a major grain corporation, it is one question that certainly should have been asked, because you were going to be a director of a company that sells $4 billion to $6 billion on behalf of Canadian farmers to some 70 countries. That would certainly be a negative point on your ability to do the job.
The second question relates to the note the minister attached to his statement on November 1. It seems to have failed to include your attachment to FarmGro Organic Foods, which according to The Western Producer of January 9, 2003, went into receivership. A former board member of the company said, referring to you, “I don't think he was the man for the job.”
Did you inform the minister of your attachment to this failed company, of which you were a top executive, in his discussion with you on your ability to do this job?