Good morning. It is a pleasure to be here with you.
I apologize for the delay, which was caused by a snowstorm in Montreal. It would have been almost impossible for me to make the trip last night, so I left at 4:30 this morning and I got delayed a little on the way.
I am going to speak in French, but I will be able to understand questions in English perfectly well. To be sure to use the right words, I will answer in French.
I am pleased to be with you because I have nothing to feel guilty about. I am not aware of any situation relating to the contract that is the subject of the committee's study. Contrary to what the member for Bourassa has insinuated, I was not hiding. It was easy for the clerk to find me. I called him back immediately. We have spoken on several occasions. I am not engaging in any strong-arm tactics against anyone, and I have no connections in the construction industry. So I am very pleased that I am going to answer questions and thus dispel any malicious insinuation that someone who enjoys privilege might make against me.