I call the meeting to order.
This is meeting number 28 of the Standing Committee on International Trade. Today’s meeting is taking place in a hybrid format, pursuant to the House order of June 23, 2022. Members are attending in person in the room, and remotely using the Zoom application.
I would like to make a few comments for the benefit of the witnesses and members, which I have to repeat every single meeting.
Please wait until I recognize you by name before speaking. When speaking, please speak slowly and clearly. For those participating by video conference, click on the microphone icon to activate your mike, and please mute yourself when you are not speaking.
With regard to interpretation, for those on Zoom, you have the choice at the bottom of your screen of floor, English, or French. For those in the room, you can use the earpiece and select your desired channel.
As a reminder, all comments should be addressed through the chair. For members in the room, if you wish to speak, please raise your hand. For members on Zoom, please use the “raise hand” function. The clerk and I will manage the speaking order as best we can, and we appreciate your patience and understanding in this regard. Should any technical challenges arise, please advise me. We will suspend for a few minutes to ensure that all members can participate fully.
Pursuant to Standing Order 108(2) and the motion adopted by the committee on June 6, 2022, the committee is beginning its study on potential impacts of the ArriveCAN application on certain Canadian sectors.
We have with us today Zain Chagla, as an individual, by video conference. From the Canadian Airports Council, we have Monette Pasher, president. From the City of Niagara Falls, we have Mayor Jim Diodati. From the Tourism Industry Association of Canada, we have Beth Potter, president and chief executive officer. Finally, from the Vancouver Airport Authority, we have Trevor Boudreau, manager of government relations.
Welcome to you all, and thank you very much for taking time out of your busy schedules to join us in person and by video conference.
Dr. Chagla, I invite you to make an opening statement of up to five minutes, please.