Thank you to the witnesses for coming today.
My first question is for Robin and Tim. Robin, you alluded to it, and Tim, I'd like your comments as well.
We're all aware that the industry has come a long way toward bettering animal welfare voluntarily, and I am glad to hear you speak of enriched...as opposed to cages, and the movement towards that, Tim.
However, we know that not everyone plays by those rules. There have been significant cuts to veterinarians before, and now to government researchers, scientists, and biologists at government farms and research stations, and universities across Canada. It's close to 700 in total, with the announcement two weeks ago. When we need greater research, we're getting less research.
In fact, Jacqueline, you referred to science-based policy. I'm beginning to think that it's becoming policy-based science. That's not my quote; that's from somebody else. I'm quite concerned.
I want to know from Robin and Tim, with lack of research, how will industry fill the gap, notably at places like the Canadian poultry welfare centre in Guelph, or the completion of the codes of conduct that you talked about working on? Will this pose a difficulty for farmers?
I only have five minutes so I'm going to time you.