Welcome, everyone.
I call to order the 167th meeting of the Standing Committee on Citizenship and Immigration. This is very likely our last meeting before Parliament rises, which is expected to happen this week.
I'd like to welcome a couple of new members to our committee today, temporary members Don Rusnak and Linda Lapointe.
Don, I'd like to thank you for your four years in Parliament. I understand you're not seeking re-election, but thank you for your service.
We'll begin with an opening statement by the departmental officials here to brief us today on the rural and northern immigration pilot, followed by normal rounds of questioning.
I understand there may be interruptions over the course of the next half-hour. We might be seeking unanimous consent to continue to pose questions to the witnesses until the time to vote, so that all parties will have an opportunity to participate in the debate.
Without further ado, I'd like to welcome Natasha Kim, Lara Dyer and Corinne Prince.
Ms. Kim, please proceed.