I call the meeting to order.
Welcome to meeting number eight of the Standing Committee on Science and Research.
Colleagues, the Board of Internal Economy requires that the committee adhere to health protocols, the same ones that have been in place, but they are now in effect until June 23, 2022.
If you have questions, please contact our clerk of the committee for further information on preventative measures for health and safety, but they are the same ones that have been in place.
As the chair, I will enforce these measures, and I really thank you all for your co-operation. We have a really lovely committee.
Today's meeting is taking place in a hybrid format, pursuant to the House order of November 24, 2021.
There are a few rules to outline. Interpretation services are available for this meeting. You may speak in the official language of your choice. At the bottom of your screen, you may choose to hear floor audio, English or French.
The “raise hand” feature is on the main toolbar, should you wish to speak. All comments should be addressed through the chair, and when you're not speaking, your microphone should be muted.
The committee clerk and I will maintain a speaking list for all members.
We are delighted to welcome our witnesses tonight. We are thrilled that you can join us.
As an individual, we have Dr. Ken Coates, professor, University of Saskatchewan.
Welcome.
We have Mr. Jim Balsillie, co-founder and chair of the Council of Canadian Innovators.
We welcome you.
From Evidence for Democracy, we have Rachael Maxwell, who is the executive director, and Farah Quaiser, director, research and policy.
We will now hear from our excellent witnesses. You will have five minutes. At the four-and-a-half minute mark, I will hold up a yellow card so you know there are 30 seconds left to go. I will make sure that it is fair and even for everyone.
With that, I would ask Dr. Coates to take the floor for five minutes.
Thank you.