Mr. Speaker, we all know how important the Pacific salmon treaty is for ensuring the proper management of the Pacific stock on the west coast. Unfortunately, the breakdown of discussions several months ago have led to a series of disputes.
I am very pleased to announce today that through discussions with the United States government, we have come to an agreement on the beginning of a new initiative. We are beginning new negotiations that will involve the major stakeholders at the regional level to deal with some of the crucial issues such as equity and conservation.
There is a very strict timetable between ourselves and the Americans. The meetings will begin February 10. We will review progress in the middle of March. This demonstrates what can happen when there is a constructive dialogue between two countries.