It's my pleasure.
To prevent disruptive and potentially harmful audio feedback incidents that can cause injuries, all in-person participants are reminded to keep their earpieces away from all microphones at all times.
As indicated in the communiqué from the Speaker to all members on Monday, April 29, the following measures have been taken to help prevent audio feedback incidents. All earpieces have been replaced by a model that greatly reduces the probability of audio feedback. The new earpieces are black in colour, whereas the former earpieces were grey. Please use only the approved black earpieces.
By default, all unused earpieces will be unplugged at the start of the meeting. When you're not using your earpiece, please place it face down on the middle of the sticker that you will find on the table, as indicated. Please consult the cards on the table for guidelines to prevent audio feedback incidents. The room layout has also been adjusted to increase the distance between microphones and reduce the chance of feedback from an ambient earpiece.
As always, these measures are in place so that we can conduct our business without interruption and to protect the health and safety of all participants, including the interpreters.
Thank you for your co-operation.
Colleagues, I'd like to now welcome our witnesses.
We have Sébastien Benedict, who is vice-president, public affairs and communications, at the Alliance de l'industrie touristique du Québec.
Welcome, sir.
From Gander International Airport Authority, we have Reg Wright, president and chief executive officer. He is joining us by video conference.
Welcome to you, sir.
From Northern Air Transport Association, we have Robert Kendall, chair, alternate runway materials.
Welcome to you as well.
I'd also like to point out, because it's very rare that we have guests, that we have Kandra and Beatrice from the University of Ottawa joining us in the back today.
Welcome. I hope you enjoy the committee.
We will begin with you, Mr. Benedict. You will have five minutes for your opening remarks.