Good afternoon, everyone.
I call this meeting to order.
Welcome to meeting number 12 of the House of Commons Standing Committee on Official Languages.
Today's meeting is taking place in a hybrid format, and members are attending in person or using the Zoom application.
Given the ongoing pandemic situation and in light of the recommendations from health authorities, to remain healthy and safe, all those attending the meeting in person should follow the directives of the Board of Internal Economy.
I thank members in advance for their cooperation.
A reminder to everyone, when speaking, please speak slowly and clearly. When those participating virtually are not speaking, their mic should be on mute.
Should any technical challenges arise, please advise me. Please note that we may need to suspend for a few minutes to ensure that all members are able to participate fully.
Pursuant to Standing Order 108(3)(f) and the motion adopted by the committee on Monday, January 31, 2022, the committee is resuming its study on francophone immigration to Canada and Quebec.
I would now like to welcome the witnesses. We have the Honourable Sean Fraser, Minister of Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship; Caroline Xavier, Associate Deputy Minister; Alexandra Hiles, Director General, Domestic Network; and Corinne Prince, Director General, Afghanistan Settlement.
A maximum of five minutes will be given to you, Minister, for your speech, after which we will proceed to a series of questions, as you know. I'll let you know when you have about a minute left.
Minister Fraser, you have the floor for five minutes.