Thank you, Mr. Chairman.
Thank you, gentlemen, for your presentations. They were interesting. As we've seen in many different panels before this committee, there certainly isn't unanimity on what might be the next steps, but every presentation certainly enlightens me and all of us on the committee.
Mr. Chairman, I had a series of questions, particularly directed to Mr. Schiller and the remanufacturers that he represents. It's been a concern of mine since the beginning of the whole softwood lumber dispute years ago. In my constituency there are a number of remanufacturers. I think I have some understanding of the rather unique circumstances in which they find themselves.
So I'd like to direct a number of questions to Mr. Schiller or to Monsieur Béland, alors c'est à vous de décider. And if there is time left on this round, Mr. Temelkovski has a question. If not, he'll do it after.
Mr. Schiller, my impression is that over whatever period of time one looks at, as a general concept exports to the United States have been at a record high in recent years, yet remanufacturers are telling me that their exports have diminished considerably. I'm wondering if that's accurate and, if so, why might remanufacturers have suffered a disproportionate effect, as Mr. Emerson admitted before this committee, although honestly trying to find a solution.
Why, in your view, is the injury disproportionate to other sectors of the industry? I'm interested if, in your view, remanufacturers are getting a fair share of the resources and of the consultation that the government is offering other industry sectors or provinces.
I know it's a complicated question, but do you feel included and adequately informed as the negotiations are proceeding? I'd be curious to hear what your views are on that.
Also, I've always thought there was some difference between remanufacturers that are tenure holders and remanufacturers who don't have tenure and simply buy low-grade lumber on the open market. I'm wondering if that distinction is real and can mean something for the government going forward.
My final question, Mr. Schiller, is what specifically can the government do to meet your association's concerns? What is the simple solution, if there is one, or what precisely would you propose to Mr. Emerson to solve some of the concerns you've outlined?
Thank you.