Thank you, Mr. Chair.
I would like to thank the three chiefs for being with us this morning.
My first question is for Chiefs Brian David and Steven Thomas, of the Mohawk Council of Akwesasne. The Akwesasne chiefs stated that they were concerned by the possible repercussions of mandatory minimum sentences on their communities, particularly on young people.
Chief David, you said that you are worried that heavy fines and prison sentences will turn young people, who smuggle tobacco because they have few opportunities for legal employment, into hardened criminals, and will force them into a life of crime. I would like both of you to comment on this statement.