Thank you, Mr. Chairman. Thank you, gentlemen.
First of all, Mr. Pelletier, on behalf of the Bloc Québécois, I'd like to congratulate you on your appointment as CEO of the Port of Montreal. I'd like to address my questions specifically to you. The Bloc Québécois supports the bill, but we have certain concerns, especially with regard to maritime traffic on the St. Lawrence River. In the early 80s, 130 million tonnes were transported on the St. Lawrence River. Right now, it's about 105 million tonnes. So there's been a reduction in traffic since the 80s, whereas there's been a phenomenal growth in maritime transport worldwide, an increase in the order of 600%. The Mississippi River has had an increase, from 450 million tonnes to 700 million tonnes over the same period. I'd like you to reassure me. Will such a bill work in our favour? Will it favour the St. Lawrence River?
I don't think that a loan is a problem for the Port of Montreal, unless I'm wrong. But this won't be to your advantage. I agree that you should have access to a financing program, but if you're penalized because you have fewer loans than others and you're told to borrow... I want to be comforted here. I don't want you to be penalized more than other ports. Am I wrong?