We are now beginning the second part of the meeting.
I want to welcome the witnesses. Mr. Fortin, we will try to resolve all the technical issues so you can give your testimony.
For those of you not familiar with virtual meetings, I want to say that even though we can hear Mr. Fortin clearly, there is a problem at the console, between the transmission and the interpreters. That is where the sound has to be optimal.
So I would like to welcome Mr. François Vaillancourt, a professor who is appearing as an individual. Welcome also to Ms. Cathy Pelletier, general manager, not to say mother superior, of the Edmundston Region Chamber of Commerce, which as I said is the nicest region in Canada. I am in a conflict of interest here since I know Ms. Pelletier well. I also know Mr. Pelletier, who appeared earlier.
Finally, I want to welcome Mr. Roch Fortin, the owner of Maple Roch, who we hope will be able to join us soon despite the technical issues. Mr. Fortin, I understand you learned the maple syrup business in New Brunswick. I suspect it was in the area I come from.
As to how we will proceed, each witness will have a maximum of five minutes. You will then be asked questions by each political party. I am very strict with your speaking time to ensure that committee members can ask as many questions as possible.
We will begin with Mr. Vaillancourt.
You have the floor for five minutes, Mr. Vaillancourt.