Thank you, Mr. Chair.
Thank you for your presentation, Ms. Shadian.
You spoke at length about infrastructure. Historically, Quebec pursued development in the north because there was a financial interest in accessing natural resources. As is often the case, infrastructure is built in very northern areas for development purposes, whether it's ore or energy. I think that is the best solution in the short term for developing infrastructure.
I say that because, right now, the government is looking to develop the strategic critical minerals sector. We all know that Canada's north is home to many strategic critical mineral deposits, but what is sorely lacking is the infrastructure to get mining projects off the ground. We've had some discussions with first nations members, including representatives of a natural resource centre of excellence and a major project coalition.
I'd like to know whether you've looked into the infrastructure required for the development of natural resources, especially positive models involving first nations. Finding a proponent for this kind of infrastructure is a challenge. With some sort of financial support, first nations could become proponents for such infrastructure projects.
I'd like to hear, at the very least, your thoughts on the infrastructure needed to develop and deploy natural resource projects in the north.