Thank you very much. I appreciate Mr. Martin's segue into my questions.
I thank you, Mr. Friesen, for your testimony today and also for your pragmatic approach. I wish the existing directors of the Canadian Wheat Board were as pragmatic about reaching out and seeking to undertake the work that farmers across the western provinces wish they would undertake, which is to be pragmatic and responsible with the resources that farmers have entrusted to them as well as to undertake a plan for the future.
Mr. Martin just referenced smaller producers, and some of the most important smaller producers today in the market are younger farmers, people who are trying to break into the industry. I happen to represent a whole host of young producers who come and speak to me about this issue and their desire to break into new and innovative markets. Some guys want to start organic enterprises. Others want to produce wheat and barley that will be destined for a specific market within the world or will be for domestic consumption.
The word “obsessed” came up when I was speaking to some of my colleagues. I've become obsessed with this issue because my constituents are obsessed with this issue. They want to have maximum freedom and maximum capacity to go and seek new and innovative markets for their products so they can capitalize and get the best return for their smaller farms. Then they may be able to grow, and they may be able to raise their families on the family farm or break into the market as independent farmers.
You spoke specifically about assisting farmers in that enterprise, to seek additional and new innovative markets. I wonder if you could just say a little bit, in addition to what you've mentioned thus far, about your organization's plans to assist younger farmers specifically who know that there are innovative markets out there, who know that there are opportunities for them to create niche products. I think this is a partnership that's going to be very helpful.
What are you going to do for these smaller farmers, or how do you think you might be able to assist these younger and innovative farmers?