Thank you, Mr. Chair.
Recently we had a submission sent around by the clerk of the committee about proposed travel to Washington by the natural resources committee. There have been several committees and groups of parliamentarians who have travelled to speak with U.S. decision-makers on Canada-U.S. policy. I think I agree with the analyst's proposal and the relative significance of our travelling as a committee to the United States. Today, however, is the deadline and I think if we work collaboratively over the coming months we could come up with a travel plan and itinerary that suits the needs of committee members and reflects the importance of Canada-U.S. trade relations, especially as it pertains to our softwood lumber industry and the energy sector. I feel it's a great opportunity for us to collectively advocate on behalf of Canada's natural resource sector and represent our Canadian interests in the United States, and I would welcome open comments. I think we should proceed with that study trip.