Thank you, Mr. Speaker. Mr. Speaker, they had not given any written reasons to myself or any notice of the concerns they have had as environmental groups for the stress they signalled, and for pulling out of participating in this particular process. I believe that their fundamental reason was because Diavik was not at this time going to receive the full, more comprehensive type of a panel review that the BHP project received.
The federal government had decided to proceed initially with a study process. I understand that significant environmental issues were raised in the course of that process. It is possible that it could be elevated to the review process that the BHP project was subject to. It seemed logical to me that the environmental groups should stay involved, contribute their expertise and their views that would protect the animals and the trees and the environment as they are mandated to do should significant concerns be raised. It is their responsibility to work on that. It is unfortunate that they have decided to neglect their duties for political posturing. Thank you.