I call the meeting to order.
This morning we're pleased to have with us the Honourable Gail Shea, Minister of Fisheries and Oceans.
Minister, we appreciate your coming this morning to discuss the events leading up to the European Union ban on Canadian seal products.
At this point, I'm sure you're quite familiar with the proceedings of this committee and the time constraints we are accustomed to. If you have any opening comments, I would ask you to try to confine them to about 10 minutes. We have a timer that will indicate when time is expired. The members have time constraints around asking questions, and answers are within those same constraints. If you hear the beeping sound, I would ask that you please try to wind up your comments in a timely fashion.
Minister, I turn the floor over to you for opening comments. I would also appreciate it if you would introduce those accompanying you.