Thank you, Mr. Chair.
I represent a riding in the Quebec part of the Outaouais region. The forestry industry is the region's backbone and its foundation. As my colleague Mr. Lauzon and other colleagues said, the forestry industry is likely experiencing a crisis.
However, I find it ironic that we have gathered here to discuss a potential agreement or negotiations, given that those negotiations were not concluded before the agreement expired, last October. That forces us to negotiate under the gun during a U.S. election year. I can only express my sincere disappointment over the fact that no agreement was concluded with the United Stated before the previous agreement expired.
That said, I would like to start discussing matters with our witnesses, whom I thank for joining us today. I would like them to tell us, if they can, about the particular situation of the Outaouais, but to first comment on Quebec's situation. That province has taken measures to make its industry more compliant with the requirements of international trade standards and, of course, the standards related to trade within North America and the United States.
Could you talk to us about Quebec's position and any developments related to that province?