I call the meeting to order. Welcome to meeting number 85 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. If you are online, please mute yourself when you are not speaking. I ask all participants to be careful when handling the earpieces in order to prevent feedback. If any technical issues arise, please inform me immediately. We may need to suspend to deal with any issues.
I remind you that all comments should be addressed through the chair.
Pursuant to Standing Order 108(2) and the motion adopted by the committee on Tuesday, October 17, 2023, the committee is beginning its study on the 2023 strike at the port of Vancouver.
We have with us today, from the Department of Transport, Robert Dick, assistant deputy minister, supply chain office; Christian Dea, chief economist and director general, transportation and economic analysis; and Sonya Read, director general, marine policy.
Welcome to all of you. I apologize for starting late, but you know how things go when we have votes. Please keep to your points. You have up to five minutes, but if you prefer to use less time, please ensure you make the point you want the committee to hear in the time you have.
Mr. Dick, I invite you to make an opening statement of up to five minutes.