Thank you, Mr. Chair.
Mr. Poirier, the Magdalen Islands area is very special, as is its economy. The socio-economic balance of the islands is directly related to the fishery, based on what you've told us. Having been there several times myself, I can confirm that. All the islanders talk about fishing. Their lives are built around lobster fishing.
I would like you to comment on what would happen if DFO decided to maintain its 2023 deadline for the implementation of gear that hasn't been tested properly or that has given inconclusive results.
In the short term, for the next fishing year, what repercussions would this have on fishers and the entire economy of the Magdalen Islands?