I call the meeting to order.
This is meeting number 61 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 by 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. Those participating by video conference can click on the microphone icon to activate their mikes, and please mute yourself when you are not speaking. With regard to interpretation, those on Zoom have a choice at the bottom of your screen of either floor, English or French. Those in the room can use the earpiece and select the desired channel.
I'll give a reminder that all comments should be addressed through the chair. If members in the room 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. We appreciate your patience and understanding.
Please note that during the meeting, it's not permitted to take pictures in the room or take screenshots on Zoom. Should any technical issues arise, please advise me, and we will suspend in order to ensure that all members can participate fully.
Pursuant to Standing Order 108(2) and the motion adopted by the committee on Friday, November 25, 2022, the committee is resuming its study of non-tariff barriers in Canada’s existing and potential international trade agreements.
Today, from the Canadian Chamber of Commerce, we have Michael Harvey, vice-president, policy and international; from the Canadian Nuclear Association, we have George Christidis, vice-president, government relations and international affairs; from Global Automakers of Canada, we have David Adams, president and chief executive officer, by video conference; and from the Tree of Life, we have Lisa MacNeil, president.
Welcome to all of you on this rainy, miserable Monday. I hope you all bring a smile and some happiness to our outlook on today's schedule.
We will start with opening remarks and then proceed with a round of questions.
Mr. Harvey, I invite you to begin with an opening statement of up to five minutes, please.