We will reconvene and call the meeting to order. For the benefit of the audience and some new people on the committee, I will explain what the open-mike session really is.
This is the first time we've done an open-mike session in Ottawa. I think the main reason that they were designed is that when we are travelling the country and there is only space for about 12 witnesses, there are usually others who want to make a point. We open it up for usually half an hour before the formal meeting starts in order to give people an opportunity—a minute—to say what is on their mind. Their information gets on the record and is considered by the committee in terms of our pre-budget consultations.
We have 10 people here. Hopefully, you can hold it to one minute. We might stretch it a bit to a minute and a half, seeing as there are only 10 people. There are no questions from members, but certainly some members might have some questions for you afterwards on a personal level.
People can stand up or sit at the table, whichever makes them feel more comfortable.
With that, we will start with the first witness, Mr. David Al-Aidroos.
David, I may not have pronounced your name quite properly. Welcome to the table. Take your minute or a minute and a half and tell us what's on your mind.
Also, thanks to all of you for coming. We really do appreciate your interest.