Mr. Greg Rickford (Kenora, CPC): Mr. Speaker, our government is determined to minimize the damaging effects this global recession has had on our forestry sector. The Kenora riding was delighted to hear today that our Conservative government announced new funding for Canadian pulp mills that produce black liquor to invest in new green technologies that will increase the environmental performance of their facilities.

    Can the Minister of Natural Resources tell us more about this exciting new program and how it will help our Canadian forestry sector and its workers?

Hon. Lisa Raitt (Minister of Natural Resources, CPC): Mr. Speaker, I would like to thank the member for Kenora for his work on the file and indeed all the other Conservative MPs who have brought this matter to my attention. He continues to serve his constituents in northern Ontario very well.

    As indicated, Canadian pulp mills will be eligible to access $1 billion in funding through our government's pulp and paper green transformation program. It will help ensure Canada has a pulp sector, both commercially and environmentally sustainable for years to come. Every dollar made available through this program will benefit forestry communities across Canada and provide them with a brighter future. By making a smart investment today, we are laying the groundwork for a greener, more secure future for pulp and paper workers and their families.