Thank you, Mr. Chair.
Mr. Premier, thank you for making the large visit. I know that it takes a lot to get here.
I'd also like to thank my fellow members of the finance committee, because the openness to having you and other premiers come in to represent the views of people of the north I think is an excellent opportunity for all of us. When I first got involved in politics, someone said to me, “Dan, just remember that Ottawa may seem to be only a few thousand miles away, but for us back home it's like 30,000, because sometimes the decisions made are so remote.” I certainly appreciate your presence.
I'd like to talk a bit about the moratorium, because you did reference it in your opening statement. Obviously, the moratorium surprised many. Were you consulted ahead of time? Was your government consulted?