Thank you to the three of you for being here.
To put this in perspective, it is my understanding that the Grain Commission was created to protect farmers, obviously, as a result of abuses that probably took place in those days. We have now an institution that has been able to do that.
It would be important, if we make changes to the Grain Commission, to maintain this protection. Obviously, any changes should be good changes that won't potentially tarnish our reputation on the world stage. Also, there should not be a significant increase in cost for farmers, and farmers should not be more vulnerable. We want to make sure that we not only maintain the quality but that our farmers are protected.
You folks are on the ground. I'm still trying to wrap my head around this whole inward inspection thing. Currently, the law requires that the grain be inspected by government officials when it arrives at a terminal or a transfer elevator. If there's an infestation or something is discovered at this stage, it can be identified. The CGC alerts the elevators and growers and they try to isolate it. That is my understanding, and correct me if I'm wrong. Then it does not go any further.
If this inspection doesn't take place, is there not a potential for this infestation to go unnoticed? Is there not a potential for the ships being loaded to be loaded with contaminated grain, which would then be exported and would tarnish our image of quality? That is my question. I'm asking you folks on the ground to explain that to me.
Maybe, Richard, we can start with you.