I call this meeting to order.
Welcome to meeting number 36 of the House of Commons Standing Committee on the Status of Women. Today's meeting is taking place in a hybrid format, pursuant to the House order of January 25, 2021. Our committee is studying midwifery services across Canada.
Witnesses, I will recognize you by name. All your comments should be addressed through the chair. If you need interpretation, there is a button at the bottom of your screen where you can choose either your favourite language or the audio from the floor. When you're speaking, please speak slowly and clearly for the interpreters. When you're not speaking, your mike should be on mute.
Now I'd like to welcome our witnesses, who will each have five minutes for their opening remarks.
We have, from Laurentian University, Robert Haché, president and vice-chancellor, and Marie-Josée Berger, provost and vice-president, academic. From the Association of Ontario Midwives, we have Ellen Blais, director, indigenous midwifery.
We'll begin with Robert for five minutes.