Thank you, Madam Chair.
I'd like to welcome the witnesses who are with us today.
Ms. Murphy, the government announced $1.7 billion in funding to attract foreign researchers. I certainly saw how the University of British Columbia responded: It seemed to welcome the news quite enthusiastically.
In contrast, however, the government is cutting funding for its own research centres. Agriculture and Agri-Food Canada is closing seven research centres, including the ones in Quebec City, Guelph and Lacombe. It is eliminating 665 positions, and over 1,000 WFA notices have been sent out.
What I'm trying to do is understand your institutional perspective. How are we supposed to attract and retain the best talent when we're dismantling public research infrastructure right here in Quebec and Canada? Some of this research infrastructure has over a century of expertise, particularly in long-term trials.