I can see that we're working quite well together.
The second motion concerns investments in the agri‑food sector:
That, whereas: 1. Consumer demand for locally produced or processed food has reached unprecedented levels, driven by greater attention to food safety, sustainability and the importance of supporting local economies; 2. According to the OECD, between 2011 and 2023, Canada fell from 37th to 44th place out of 47 countries in terms of capital investment in the agri‑food sector; [which explains the alarm that we want to sound today]; and 3. According to a report by Innovation, Science and Economic Development Canada, automation and digitization in the industry must be encouraged by the government in order for it to achieve its growth objectives; That, pursuant to section 108(2) of the Standing Orders, the committee undertake an in‑depth study involving at least four meetings with stakeholders in the sector to better leverage agri‑food in order to strengthen food security in the face of global instability, with a particular focus on: Creating value within the Canadian food chain by promoting investment and innovation and reducing barriers to economic activity in Canada; Strengthening local food production and processing, from northern and remote communities to urban centres, to reduce our environmental footprint and food cost inflation; and Supporting local purchasing initiatives.