The Standing Committee on Agriculture and Agri-Food met in camera at 11:10 a.m. this day, in Room 371 West Block, the Chair, Paul Steckle, presiding.

It was agreed, — That the Committee proceed to sit in public.

David L. Anderson moved, — That the Canadian Wheat Board submit to the Standing Committee on Agriculture and Agri-Food all documents, including minutes of meetings, concerning grants and forgivable loans to the Farmers Rail Car Coalition .

After debate, the question was put on the motion and it was agreed to, by a show of hands: YEAS: 7; NAYS: 4.

It was agreed, — At 11:20 a.m., that the Committee proceed to sit in camera.

It was agreed, — That the Committee meet jointly with the Standing Committee on Health to discuss the activities of the Pest Management Regulatory Agency .

It was agreed, — That on Thursday, December 9, 2004, the Committee consider a draft report on the subject of grain transportation: the hopper car fleet .

It was agreed, — That the proposed budget in the amount of $ 49, 147, for the Committee’s travel to Abbotsford, B.C. on January 17 to 19, 2005 be adopted and that the Chair present the said budget to the Budget Subcommittee of the Liaison Committee.

It was agreed, — That the Canadian Vintners Association be invited to appear before the Committee on December 14, 2004 in order examine excise duty relief for Canada’s wine sector .

It was agreed, — That the Committee examine the Canadian Agricultural Income Stabilization (CAIS) and that a letter be sent to the Minister regarding the Committee's concerns.

It was agreed, — That the Chair respond to a letter from the Hon. Tony Valeri, Leader of the Government in the House of Commons, concerning prior parliamentary review of appointments .

At 12:00 p.m., the Committee adjourned to the call of the Chair.