I want to start by thanking Mr. Simard.
Thank you, Charlie, as well.
Mr. George, you spoke a bit about theatrics. I want to start by saying thank you to you and Chief Meguinis as well. I think what I've heard from both of you, throughout the last hour, is coming from your hearts. I think this place is better when we have that.
I also think, Mr. George, you asked a question of us in your testimony about our perspective. I want to start briefly on that.
I live quite far from the pipeline. I live all the way out in Ontario. For me, the decision to purchase the pipeline—days after this government affirmed that we were, in fact, in a climate emergency—is one of the reasons why I decided to run. It was devastating for me at that time, but I don't live near the pipeline the way you and your ancestors have for time immemorial.
I admire the advocacy that your nation has pressed for so many years. I'm also mindful that this committee heard, for the second meeting in a row—this time from oil and gas CEOs—their quotes, “this project is an undeniable win”. One of them wasn't sure if CO2 caused climate change at all, but he thought that Canada will enjoy the benefits of TMX for decades to come. It's a critical piece of infrastructure. Meanwhile, you've called it economic smallpox.
I was wondering, Mr. George, if you could reflect on what we've heard today from these CEOs. What does that bring up for you?