Thank you, Mr. Chairman.
Madam Fraser, Madam Swan, I fully agree with my colleague from the NDP. Looking at this report, there is every reason to be concerned. It makes us wonder. We are talking here about invasive species, pests, diseases resulting from those and potential damage to our ecosystems both in Quebec and Canada. So this could have a major impact on the life of Canadians. If the committee did not look into these problems, it would fail to carry out its duty, unfortunately.
The report of the Auditor General clearly states that invasive species associated with the greatest risk are not given priority. The fact that 42 full assessments are on hold and that four assessments would require a large scale follow-up represents a huge failure.
The report of the Auditor General talks about elevated risks. So the Agency needs to provide clear answers, especially on its action plan. Do you require additional resources? We are being told that the present government provided some, but I get the impression that other needs are not being met. We are told that there is insufficient information management support and that there are breakdowns in information transmission. Do you have a business plan for this information network and, if so, could we get a copy?
Several aspects entail high risk and we must take a close look at these. So I would ask you to tell us what you intend to do according to your action plan. 1996 was a watershed. The program at the time was a responsibility of Agriculture Canada but it seems to me that things have not changed very much since then. Where are you now? Where were you in 1999, or 2001? I do not know, but these recommendations suggest that quick action is required. The Auditor General talks about a one-year backlog of assessments. I wonder how the Agency will be able under its action plan to become an agency for 2010 rather than an agency for 2000.