I welcome our guests, who are here on time, on behalf of the committee. I appreciate your being here.
The House of Commons Standing Committee on Finance is mandated by the House of Commons on an annual basis to consider and make reports upon proposals regarding the budgetary policies of the government. This year the theme of our pre-budget consultation is Canada's place in a competitive world.
We appreciate the time you've taken to be with us today. We appreciate the work you've put into your briefs, and we look forward to hearing from you now.
You've been asked to keep your comments to five minutes, and if you were here during the last session you know I will cut you off at five minutes. I will, however, give you a visual indication of the time remaining, if you wish to make eye contact, to show that you have a minute remaining or less—just to give you a chance to wind up your presentation.
We will begin with the representative from the Association of Yukon Communities, Doug Graham, president.
Welcome, Mr. Graham. Five minutes are yours, sir.