Thank you, Mr. Chair.
I want to thank the witnesses for joining us. I will speak in French.
I have several questions for you, Mr. Hazell, but I would like to begin by putting certain information into context. I think there has been a lot of misinformation in the discussions we have heard today and over the last few days.
Much has been said about efficiency, about saving money. People have said that it is impossible to associate saving money with sustainable development. However, the environment commissioner says the opposite, as do several experts, including yourself.
Wouldn't it be preferable to invest in environmental protection and prevention, instead of investing in healing and decontaminating sites?
You pointed out a paradox. It is constantly being mentioned that environmental assessments are too long and costly, and that there are many delays. However, you said that politicizing environmental assessments and giving the provinces responsibility will lead to more delays. Therefore, I assume this will lead to risks and higher costs.