I appreciate the kind comments of the committee, and I would just like to clarify and to have on the public record the fact that as the current executive vice-president and chief veterinary officer, I am extremely proud of and amazed at the level of professionalism and competency that our almost 7,000 staff bring to the task each and every day in what they do. Certainly in my responsibilities as executive vice-president or associate of the president, I can assure you that with any opportunity I have to review submissions on behalf of the agency, I undertake on the most dedicated basis possible to use every ounce of my professionalism and scientific understanding to ensure that we are providing our best advice on what we think is absolutely in Canadians' collective best interests to ensure that we can continue to meet the standards necessary to protect them and their families.
On August 18th, 2008. See this statement in context.