I'd like to call the Standing Committee on Justice and Human Rights to order. Pursuant to the order of reference of Friday, November 30, 2007, Bill S-203, an act to amend the Criminal Code, cruelty to animals, is under review and debate.
Before us we have a number of witnesses. I'd like to first thank all of those witnesses for appearing today.
Starting with the Canadian Federation of Humane Societies, we have Shelagh MacDonald, program director, along with Hugh Coghill, chief inspector.
From the Ontario Federation of Anglers and Hunters we have Mr. Greg Farrant, manager, government relations.
From the International Fund for Animal Welfare we have Barbara Cartwright, the campaign manager, and Kim Elmslie, campaigner.
We have representation from the Canadian Professional Rodeo Association, Jim Pippolo, acting general manager.
And from the Canadian Association for Humane Trapping, we have Mr. Don Mitton, project director.
Welcome all.
I will start with the list as noted on the agenda, with the Canadian Federation of Humane Societies, and the presenter will be Ms. MacDonald.