We understand the importance of the competitive environment. We understand that Canada is an international player and an important one in the energy sector and that we have to be mindful of our national competitive position not only in energy, but all over the place.
For 16 years I was president of the Business Council of Manitoba. Every day we talked about Manitoba's competitiveness. Every day I learned from our province's leading entrepreneurs and risk-takers about the importance of certainty in the business climate. Competitiveness was driving almost everything that we recommended to governments, federal and provincial.
I believe as a member of Parliament, now as Minister of Natural Resources, that Canada's competitive position in an ever-changing international market is absolutely vital. I recognize that and I recognize its importance.