I really do want to address this SRM issue. I feel that we got sidetracked on this. We're trying to study young farmers, but there were concerted comments on this.
The reality of SRM is this. I believe I heard Travis say that the industry is very happy with what was in the budget. It's not just Travis who said that, but beef producers and other beef and cattle associations we've met with across Canada and here in front of the committee.
In terms of why money hasn't flowed yet, we're working with industry. I think this is crucial, because, for example, we just had a meeting last month with 50 people to ensure that the program that's delivered meets the expectations of the industry.
If you remember, when BSE hit, the Liberals delivered a program that was a complete fiasco. In fact, they had to conduct a full-scale investigation to find out where the money went, and they concluded that the money went to the wrong place. So this consultative process is key to ensuring that money is delivered effectively and efficiently and in the manner that will best help the industry.
The third point I want to make, Chair, before I sign off here is that, for all the interest that the opposition is expressing in terms of SRM, our last budget announced $75 million. In difficult economic times, we announced $75 million for slaughterhouses, for processing plants for beef over 30 months, and for SRM. These members, every single one of them, voted against that. What we've heard from the industry is that it needs financial support to help with this. What the opposition did was vote against it.
Chair, I'm glad you gave me the opportunity to clear the record. I'd like to now turn it over to my colleague Mr. Richards.