Mr. Speaker, regarding the work that Canada has done in this area, this is a good opportunity to give thanks to a group in the Canadian government that does not get enough of thanks. That is our missions in the United States. Everyone talks about the tremendous work the Canadian embassy and its staff in Washington have done, but we have missions across the United States. They have done some wonderful work on two major issues we have had with the United States recently. One is coming to a very crucial vote in Congress shortly, and that is the Arctic national wildlife drilling. Once again our missions across the United States have done great work in lobbying American congressmen.
On this issue, our missions in places like Washington State, Detroit and Buffalo have had sessions to educate stakeholders and to get people to comment to the United States government during the input period. In particular, the consulate very fond to me is the one in Anchorage right beside my riding. This morning I made the point that It sent out letters to over 100 state lawmakers, mayors, chambers of commerce, leaders and other stakeholders outlining the potential impacts for Alaska. It has encouraged them to consider joint responses.
I assume that the member would agree with me that we need all departments and arms of government working together, and compliment the Canadian consulate in Washington and our various missions right across the United States.