International Trade committee  I will try to address all of your questions. To begin with, I'd like to comment on the assertion that the softwood lumber agreement defines a framework for the industry. At first glance, one could say that it establishes a framework of sorts. However, we have strong reservations because in the past, particularly with the quota system, the situation has always ended up being called into question, something which had a direct impact on operations on the ground.

International Trade committee  I would just like to add that the softwood lumber dispute is certainly not the first dispute to bring us in conflict with the Americans. Unfortunately, we had to start all over again each time. We believed that would continue to be the case as long as there was no way of defining the future.

International Trade committee  I can't speak for the companies, but I presume that they are not happy with the settlement that is now on the table. I should say that our organization is present throughout Quebec and that thousands of Quebec workers are unhappy. The softwood lumber crisis has had serious consequences for many families and regional communities.

International Trade committee  Good morning, Mr. Chairman and members of the Committee. I am very pleased to have this opportunity to present our views on the July 1 softwood lumber agreement. The disputes between Canada and the U.S. with respect to softwood lumber go back a long way. History shows that they go as far back as the 18th century.