Yes it is, it's a good deal for both taxpayers and the Canadian Forces. After the Department of National Defence worked out what it needed and discussed this with Treasury Board and my department, it was decided that there was probably only one manufacturer. So we had talks with Boeing and purchased the aircraft. We still issued an award notice. According to our sources, we got one of the best prices per aircraft in constant dollars ever paid for this type of plane. Canadian taxpayers will be getting their money's worth. So it's a good deal. I can understand that you may disagree with the choice of aircraft; I respect other people's opinions. However, given how useful this aircraft is and as it meets all the criteria developed by the Department of National Defence, we and Mr. Williston's team have gone and got ourselves a very good deal.
On February 20th, 2007. See this statement in context.