I'd like to call to order the Standing Committee on Environment and Sustainable Development.
We have with us today, from Ducks Unlimited Canada, Mr. James Fortune, chief operating officer. I was concerned for a bit. Even though it's Ducks Unlimited, and it's a very rainy day out there—perfect for ducks—I thought he wouldn't be able to arrive today because of the very wet weather. Appearing by video conference from Halifax, Nova Scotia, from the Ecology Action Centre, is Mr. Mark Butler, policy director. He will be giving his testimony by video conference. We welcome both of our witnesses today.
We'll begin with James Fortune, from Ducks Unlimited, for an opening 10-minute statement. Then we'll proceed to the video with Mr. Mark Butler. Following that, we'll have questions from committee members.
Mr. Fortune, please proceed.