We are back. I call this meeting back to order.
Pursuant to the order of reference of Thursday, November 23, 2023, the committee is resuming its study on Bill C-56, an act to amend the Excise Tax Act and the Competition Act.
I would like to welcome our witnesses with us here today. We have the Minister of Innovation, Science and Industry, the Honourable François-Philippe Champagne.
Welcome, Minister.
Joining the minister is the Department of Industry senior assistant deputy minister, strategy and innovation policy sector, Mark Schaan.
Minister, you'll provide members with opening remarks, and then the members will have an opportunity to ask you questions over the next hour.
Minister, the floor is yours.