It is of great concern from two perspectives. From an environmental perspective, it's almost a perverse way of dealing with an incentive that is meant to encourage the use of cleaner fuels. In a backwards way what is happening is that this black liquor is being mixed with diesel fuel in order to get access to the subsidy. And it is a significant subsidy. It qualifies mills for 50ยข per gallon of a refundable tax credit, and that helps the bottom line of those mills in the United States.
I have written to Secretary Chu on the matter and expressed our concern that in a time of global economic recession, when all industries are enduring much pain, this subsidy is working to render anti-competitiveness. Internally, we're discussing it with industry, DFAIT, and all the appropriate officials here in the government to see what we can do, taking a look at options, and moving forward on the matter.