RADARSAT was developed largely thanks to Canadian public funds. You have to understand that we want to ensure that we get our money's worth, as opposed to losing everything to foreign interests. Obviously, the contract has not yet been finalized—that is why we are asking questions today. We want to know whether we should oppose the sale; we want to know what the minister should do. We need to be fully informed.
Mr. Hugh Thompson, an engineer at MDA appeared before this committee on March 5, 2008. I do not know whether you had the opportunity to read his testimony. He said that, due to the U.S. program, Canada could lose access to all the new radar technology developed by MDA. And I would remind you that this is technology that was developed using Canadian taxpayers' money. Mr. Thompson said, and I quote:
Secondly, when ATK buys the systems division of MDA, they will be buying our intellectual property. When ATK bids new technology developed in Canada for U.S. classified projects, it seems highly likely that this technology will also become classified. Canada will lose access to technology that has been developed by Canadians in Canada for the benefit of Canada.
What are your thoughts on that assertion? What ramifications could this have for Canada?