I call this meeting to order. Welcome to meeting number 23 of the House of Commons Standing Committee on Citizenship and Immigration.
Given the ongoing pandemic situation and in light of the recommendations from recommendations from health authorities as well as the directive of the Board of Internal Economy on Thursday, November 25, 2021, to remain healthy and safe, all those attending the meeting in person are to maintain two-metre physical distancing and must wear a non-medical mask when circulating in the room. It is highly recommended that the mask be worn at all times, including when seated. Proper hand hygiene must be maintained by using the hand sanitizer provided in the room. Please refrain from coming into the room if you are symptomatic.
I remind all members and witnesses that all comments should be addressed through the chair. When you are not speaking, your microphone should be on mute, and your camera must be on if you are participating virtually.
Today we are here to study the main estimates 2022-23 and to receive an update on application backlogs as requested by the committee. I would like to welcome the minister to this committee. He will be here with us for the two hours. Thanks a lot also to the officials who have joined him.
Today we are joined by the Honourable Sean Fraser, Minister of Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship, and also by officials from the Department of Citizenship and Immigration. We are joined by Caroline Xavier, acting deputy minister; Marian Campbell Jarvis, senior assistant deputy minister, strategic and program policy; Daniel Mills, senior assistant deputy minister, operations; Catherine Scott, assistant deputy minister, settlement and integration; and as well as Hughes St-Pierre, chief financial officer and assistant deputy minister, finance, security and administration.
Thank you, minister, and officials. I welcome you.
You will have five minutes for your opening remarks. Please begin.