Thank you, Mr. Chair. Thank you to the panel for taking your valuable time to come and present to us today. We really appreciate it.
My question could be to anyone of the panel, and maybe specifically to Mr. Taylor, because his speech is more fresh in my mind.
I think all of you have mentioned that science and data collection are the key to understanding salmon and making sure that our practices will enhance and protect the species.
Regarding the announcement yesterday, I know that your association, Mr. Taylor, reacted very positively to it. As you stated, the last eight to 10 years have been very detrimental, in the sense that a lot of research money was reduced. You've quoted it going from a $24 million investment in salmon to $12 million. Also, there were a lot of scientists whom we've lost over that time. How important was that announcement yesterday of 135 new scientists being hired, and what does that mean for your efforts in conserving salmon in the future?