Thank you, Madam Chair.
The panel shouldn't be offended, but immediately after finishing my questions, I have to run. I should be catching a taxi right now. My wonderful colleague from Saskatchewan, Sheri Benson, will then replace me and ask questions on the second round.
My first question is to Chief Erasmus. It's great to see you here. I'm glad to see you're continuing to advise on chemical controls.
You're probably aware that your colleague in Alberta, Melody Lepine, has also testified before us. She has raised very deep concerns for the northern-environment communities about deformed fish; rabbits with extra genitals; large fish kills; elevated metals such selenium, arsenic, and cadmium; PAH levels; and exceedances of CCME guidelines for heavy metals. The Mikisew Cree, the Athabasca Chipewyan, and the Fort McKay First Nation have for three decades been asking for the federal government to initiate a health study of the impacts of the oil sands. I know that the Dene people have also spoken out, because the Mackenzie Basin is impacted as well; all your waterways and airsheds are connected.
I'm wondering if you think it's time for the federal government.... The federal Minister of Health has a mandatory duty to look into health concerns that are brought to her attention. What do you think should happen in the law or practice to finally get the federal government to assert their responsibilities and initiate these health studies?