No independent lumber remanufacturers appear under the current framework and its list of exempted companies. This is a needless loss for Canada, and we hope it can never happen again. Canada's wins on lumber have always been incremental--the maritime exemption, the exclusion of the border mills. On this continuum, independent remanufacturers from across all provinces are the next to get out. We are Canada's next big win.
In conclusion, your committee can help us right now. In your study on softwood lumber, support Canada's independent remanufacturers and say yes to keeping these value-added jobs in your communities and constituencies.
Conclude that Canada's independent remanufacturers should receive fair treatment in negotiations, including delivering on the first mill tax rate for all products covered in the dispute and a clear exit strategy like that available to the Maritimes and the border mills.
Conclude that Canada must make up for the quota deficit experienced by remanufacturers over the dispute period, and establish a special quota set-aside.
Recommend that independent remanufacturers receive a proportionate and fair share allocation of all federal resources and funding going forward, on this dispute and any future disputes.
Finally, we would request that you write a formal letter to the minister confirming that the deal must include a level playing field for Canada's secondary manufacturers and must contain no unfair advantage for U.S. remanufacturers.
Thank you very much for your time. We'd be happy to take any questions you may have.