Transport committee  From our perspective, in public policy terms, I think you're absolutely right, it's a matter of leveling the playing field. It has become increasingly difficult for Bombardier, from our operations in Canada, to be able to export to other markets, particularly in the U.S., where there are local content requirements or the buy American provisions.

Transport committee  Certainly. As you mentioned, we always strive to be ahead of the innovation curve, and that goes to the core of our competitiveness as a global firm. Whether it's in the rail transit business or in the aerospace business, we're constantly thinking about the next products we should put in the marketplace that will make sure the company is always at the forefront of what customers need.

Transport committee  I have just a couple of points. We operate in many different jurisdictions with many different regulatory environments, so I think we're well positioned to adapt ourselves and offer options, regardless of the regulatory environment that is in place in countries in which we do business.

Transport committee  We would support the idea of better integration nationally and provincially. It depends on the type of technology we are talking about. For example, if we are talking about the public transit system in urban areas, what we see in Canada, as well as in other countries, is a lack of integration.

Transport committee  We don’t want to seem protectionist. Our company is export-driven. As a matter of fact, 93% of our revenue comes from markets outside Canada. We depend on exports. However, in the rail sector, you have to realize that there are ongoing challenges around the world. There are local content requirements everywhere.

Transport committee  I guess the bottom line is that it's up to the government to decide whether they want to commit public funding—to investment in increasing speed, for instance, or making rail transportation cleaner. I think you've heard that we have many options we can supply—not only us, but other manufacturers as well.

Transport committee  These were going to be part of my concluding comments, so I'm going to refer to my notes. First and foremost, from a stakeholder point of view—and it's not only us, but the government research institutions and universities—I think we need to sharpen our innovation reflex. We need to dedicate people, resources, and budgets to developing new ways to create, produce, and sustain passenger rail transportation solutions.

Transport committee  Thank you, Mr. Chair, members of the committee. It's a pleasure to be here to discuss rail transportation technologies with you. Thank you for inviting Bombardier. It's a pleasure to be here with you this morning to share our perspectives and views on rail technologies and innovation.