I'm calling the meeting to order.
This is meeting number 83 of the Standing Committee on International Trade.
Today's meeting is taking place in a hybrid format, pursuant to the Standing Orders. Therefore, members are attending in person in the room and remotely using the Zoom application.
I need to make a few comments for the benefit of witnesses and members.
Please wait until I recognize you by name before speaking. For those online, please mute yourself when you are not speaking. As a reminder, all comments should be addressed through the chair. If any technical issues arise, please inform me immediately. We may need to suspend in order to deal with any issues. I ask that all participants be careful when handling the earpieces in order to prevent feedback.
I need to remind members, as well, that the deadline to submit amendments to Bill C-57 is this coming Friday by noon. Amendments must be submitted to the clerk in writing. The legislative counsel, Penny Becklumb, is available to assist members to ensure that the amendments are properly drafted.
Welcome to our witnesses. Thank you for coming in a few minutes earlier. It's very much appreciated.
Today we have, from the Canadian Pork Council, René Roy, chair, and Stephen Heckbert, executive director, by video conference. From Finica Food Specialties Limited, a friend of the committee who has been here before, we have Joe Dal Ferro, the president. From United Steelworkers Union, we have George Soule, legislative staff representative. Welcome to you all.
We will start with opening remarks of up to five minutes and then we will proceed with questions.
Mr. Roy and Mr. Heckbert, I invite you to make an opening statement of up to five minutes, please.