I see thumbs up everywhere.
(Motion agreed to [See Minutes of Proceedings])
I would like to ask the committee to consider the adoption of a budget for the study of gun control, illegal arms trafficking, and the increase in gun crimes committed by members of street gangs. You have all received that by mail. It covers costs related to our meetings.
Do I have an agreement on the budget? I do. Thank you, everybody.
Pursuant to the order adopted by the House of Commons on Tuesday, December 7, 2021, the committee is resuming its study of gun control, illegal arms trafficking, and the increase in gun crimes committee by members of street gangs.
With us today by video conference from the Royal Canadian Mounted Police is Michael Duheme, deputy commissioner, federal policing; Stephen White, deputy commissioner, specialized policing services; Michel Arcand, assistant commissioner, federal policing criminal operations; Don Halina, director general, national forensic laboratory services; and Kellie Paquette, director general.
From the Canada Border Services Agency, we have Fred Gaspar, vice-president, commercial and trade branch and Scott Harris, vice-president, intelligence and enforcement branch.
From the Customs and Immigration Union, we have Mark Weber, national president.
From the National Police Federation, we have Brian Sauvé, president.
Up to five minutes will be given for opening remarks by each of these organizations, after which we will proceed to rounds of questions.
Welcome to you all.
I now invite the RCMP to make an opening statement of up to five minutes.
The floor is yours.