I call the meeting to order.
This is meeting number 50 of the Standing Committee on International Trade. Today's meeting will take 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'd like to make a few comments for the benefit of witnesses and members.
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 either floor, English or French audio. For those in the room, you can use the earpiece and select the desired channel. A reminder that 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. Please also note that during the meeting, it is not permitted to take pictures in the room, or screenshots on Zoom.
Should any technical challenges arise, please advise me, and we will suspend for a few minutes in order that all members can fully participate.
Pursuant to the order of reference of Wednesday, February 8, 2023, the committee is beginning its study of Bill C-282, an act to amend the Department of Foreign Affairs, Trade and Development Act.
In our first panel, I'd like to welcome the sponsor of Bill C-282, Mr. Luc Thériault. Mr. Thériault is accompanied by Mr. Marc-André Roche, researcher for the Bloc Québécois.
Mr. Thériault, the floor is yours, please, and you have five minutes.