I agree with investment in technology innovation. Tolko Mills, in my riding, just put $13 million into their operation and it's one of the most efficient in the province in their area of expertise. I think that's where we're concentrating with our science and technology. Minister Prentice and his ministry right now are going through a review.
Also, the challenge is that all sectors will not benefit equally at the same time. In the long term, and thinking about the bigger perspective, you say not to rush into an agreement, but other than NAFTA and the European Free Trade Agreement, we haven't signed one since 2001. I'm not sure we've really rushed into anything.
Korea is our eighth-largest trading partner right now. They're signing all kinds of agreements with other countries. Of course, the United States hasn't ratified; it will depend on what happens with their election. But there are all kinds of rumours that if they sign there, then we're going to lose an opportunity.
Putting that into perspective, if you're looking at government, do you recommend that we just put everything on hold and not sign an agreement? Or should we sign an agreement that has benefits in the long term for all the economies in our country, while working with those that might be affected in the short term through incentives such as tax incentives and enhancements that we have in place right now, such as the $1 billion community trust fund that we're using during the downturn of our partners to the south and other global economies? We're still at the lowest unemployment in 33 years and continue to have a very successful economy, considering all the facts that are surrounding us.
Putting that question to the table, if you were sitting in my position, what would you do?