Thank you, Mr. Chair.
This is not a new situation. For many years, various Europeans have been making representations that, more often than not, are misleading. We have asked for expert opinions to ensure that the seals were being killed in a humane way and were not suffering too much. Obviously, when anything is killed...
Aside from a minor change in the hunt itself, all the arguments brought before the European Union referred to that situation and to these objections, and it was presented in that way. “Softening” a representation often signifies our backing down, a sense of guilt. I am putting the quotation marks because I am not sure that this is really a softer stance. However, we should not feel guilty about what has been done to us. We should not have to justify ourselves before our own citizens, who agree with us.
The motion being presented seeks to make known internationally that we intend to maintain our position and defend it. Furthermore, mention has been made of the fact that we want to file an appeal before the WTO and we are not alone: others want to intervene with us. To that end, we must maintain the attitude we have always had and continue to say that we are right in what we are doing and that it is acceptable. It is by demonstrating that we are sure that we are right that we will maintain our strength in international circles.
I am not directly opposed to Randy's motion, I think it is fine. I was already aware of the motion and I will continue to support it as it was originally introduced.
Thank you, Mr. Chair.