Thank you, Mr. Chair.
I would like to briefly discuss the 2 billion trees program.
Initially, I gathered that the program wasn't working because of concerns that the trees would be harvested. These concerns were perhaps more prevalent at Global Affairs Canada than in your department.
I know that negotiations are currently under way with the Quebec government and that this hurdle may have been avoided. However, I want to hear your thoughts on this. It seems rather nonsensical that people are worried about planting trees because they want to avoid violating current trade agreements, when they know full well that it will take 70 years for these trees to be ready for harvesting. I don't know about you. I personally believe that, in 70 years, our trade agreements will look inherently different from today's agreements.
I would like you to confirm or deny the following. Has the tree‑planting program been delayed because of a minor dispute with Global Affairs Canada, which expressed concern that some of the planted trees might be harvested?