Without doubt, this is extremely important. The set of seismological data that we need is very difficult to obtain for Canada. It is absolutely crucial in order to justify our request to the committee. On the Russian side, the ice entirely disappears during two or three weeks in the summer, sometimes during six or eight weeks in recent years. All this ice tends to accumulate on the Canadian side, and this is a problem, because very few of our icebreakers are capable of doing the work. The Louis St-Laurent can do it, but it has to collaborate with the American ship called Healy. Moreover, the conditions are extremely difficult for us. Thus, we are at a clear disadvantage as compared to the Russians, who have already obtained enough quality data to support their application.
On June 3rd, 2009. See this statement in context.