Thank you, Mr. Chairman.
To begin with, I would like to offer you all my sincere congratulations. Your opening statements were clear, as is your take on the problem. In addition, your suggestions with respect to the action that is required are extremely convincing. Of course, that is no surprise coming from the Canadian Coalition for Action on Tobacco, which exclusively represents organizations with no other interest than public health. Indeed, it was formed for that purpose.
I also want to commend the Canadian Convenience Stores Association. I understand that you have a certain interest to protect, but we all recognize as well that, in order for you to practice a legal commercial activity, you have to be protected—and that is our responsibility—against illegal competition. Your brief is generally objective and has convinced me of your desire to defend the public interest.
The one difference I note in your suggestions—and I would like you to talk a little more about this—is that the Coalition believes lower taxes will have no effect. In those provinces where taxes were very high, there was neither a decrease or increase in contraband. Basically, acting on the source is the most effective response.
I would be interested in hearing your comments. My question is addressed to the Canadian Convenience Stores Association.