I'd like to welcome you all to meeting number five of the House of Commons Standing Committee on Science and Research.
As you know, the Board of Internal Economy requires that the committee adhere to health protocols, which are in effect until March 11, 2022. As the chair, I will enforce these measures and I thank you all for your co-operation.
Today's meeting is taking place in a hybrid format pursuant to the House order of November 24, 2021. There are a few rules. Interpretation services are available for this meeting. You may speak in the official language of your choice. At the bottom of your screen is the toolbar and you may choose to hear floor audio, English or French. The “raise hand” feature is on the main toolbar should you wish to speak. I would remind you that all comments should be addressed through the chair.
When you are not speaking, your microphone should be muted. The committee clerk and I will maintain a speaking list for all members.
We're delighted tonight to have from the Canadian Institutes of Health Research, Dr. Michael Strong, president. From the Natural Sciences and Engineering Research Council, we have Dr. Alejandro Adem, president. From the Social Sciences and Humanities Research Council, we have Dr. Ted Hewitt, president, and Dr. Dominique Bérubé, vice-president of research.
We will begin with our witness testimony, and we'll begin with Dr. Michael Strong for five minutes.