The Standing Committee on Foreign Affairs and International Trade met at 3:41 p.m. this day, in Room 237-C, Centre Block, the Chair, Bernard Patry, presiding.

Members of the Committee present: Colleen Beaumier, Rick Casson, Bill Graham, John Harvard, Francine Lalonde, Diane Marleau, Pat O'Brien, Denis Paradis, Bernard Patry.

In attendance: From the Library of Parliament: David Johansen.

Witnesses: From the Department of Foreign Affairs and International Trade: Frank Ruddock, Deputy Director, U.S. Transboundary Division; Giles Norman, Environment Law Section, Oceans, Environmental and Economic Law Division. From the Department of Justice: Jason Reiskind, Counsel, International Law and Activities Section. From the Environment Canada: John B. Cooper, Director, National Water Issues Branch, Ecosystems and Environmental Resources Directorate, Environmental Conservation Service.

Pursuant to Standing Orders 108(2), an Informal briefing by DFAIT Officials on Bill C-6, An Act to amend the International Boundary Waters Treaty Act.

At 4:04 p.m. the Chair, Bill Graham took the Chair.

Frank Ruddock made a statement and, with the other witnesses, answered questions.

At 5:05 p.m., the Committee adjourned to the call of the Chair.

Marie Danielle Vachon

Clerk of the Committee