Evidence of meeting #42 for Access to Information, Privacy and Ethics in the 39th Parliament, 2nd Session. (The original version is on Parliament’s site, as are the minutes.) The winning word was point.

A recording is available from Parliament.

On the agenda

MPs speaking

Also speaking

5:25 p.m.

Bloc

Réal Ménard Bloc Hochelaga, QC

I would invite Mr. Poilievre to get a hold of himself, Mr. Chair.

I will continue, Mr. Chair, by saying that we are dealing with a very disagreeable attempt that will, no doubt, not work. Ultimately, this is a diversionary tactic. The government knows that it has broken the rules and that there is an Elections Canada investigation. They would like to divert attention by broadening the scope of this committee's work through the motion that was initially tabled. Mr. Chair, this is shameful.

I remember that, when they were in the opposition, they presented themselves, through their statements in the House, day after day, saying that they wanted to restore moral order. These people wanted to embody integrity and ethics, Mr. Chair. I am using the word “ethics” in its etymological sense. What a disagreeable sight to find ourselves here still trying — my colleague Ms. Lavallée said so — after four meetings, to shed light on something. People with nothing to hide should agree to open those books. We are well aware that this is not the case.

Mr. Chair, we will not be the willing accomplices of those who do not want democracy to follow its course. This committee has extremely important work to do; it must do it.

5:25 p.m.

Liberal

The Chair Liberal Paul Szabo

Order, please.

Mr. Van Kesteren, on a point of order.

5:30 p.m.

Conservative

Dave Van Kesteren Conservative Chatham-Kent—Essex, ON

Mr. Chair, the Bloc member has repeatedly not only insinuated but blatantly stated that the intent of my amendment.... When he talks about the amendment it's directed right to me, and in my opening remarks and again today, I have stated that the intent was none other....

5:30 p.m.

Liberal

The Chair Liberal Paul Szabo

Order.

5:30 p.m.

Conservative

Dave Van Kesteren Conservative Chatham-Kent—Essex, ON

It's a valid point, and repeatedly I hear this.

5:30 p.m.

Liberal

The Chair Liberal Paul Szabo

Order.

Thank you, Mr. Van Kesteren.

I think we understand. I don't believe there was a personal issue here. I do appreciate your argument, though. It's directed at the motion, but since you're the mover, I do understand your concern. I don't think there's a personal matter here. I hope not. I hope that you members will talk about it.

Do I have a motion to adjourn until Thursday?

Depending on what the parties decide, a notice will come out about tomorrow. The meeting will either be Thursday at 1 p.m. or at 3:30 p.m.

The meeting is adjourned.