I now call this meeting to order.
Welcome to meeting number 102 of the Standing Committee on Environment and Sustainable Development. Pursuant to the order of reference of Wednesday, February 14, 2024, the committee is commencing its consideration of Bill C-317, An Act to establish a national strategy respecting flood and drought forecasting.
This is the first time I have chaired this committee. I would like to welcome Mr. Patzer, who is replacing Mr. Mazier for a few minutes as the latter is in the House and will be back soon. I will be happy to turn the chair over to him at that time.
I should remind you that today's meeting is taking place in a hybrid format, pursuant to the order adopted by the House on June 15, 2023. To ensure an orderly meeting, I would like to outline a few rules to follow. I believe that witnesses and members are now familiar with the Zoom application and know how to access the interpretation and that they must raise their hand to request the floor. All the sound tests have been completed, as agreed.
I therefore give the floor to an eminent member of this committee, Francis Scarpaleggia, member for Lac-Saint-Louis and, especially, the sponsor of Bill C-317, which we are considering today.
Mr. Scarpaleggia, the floor is yours for 10 minutes.