Thank you, Mr. Chair, and thank you to our officials for appearing before us today, both from here in Ottawa and from as far away as Chandigarh and Manila.
Before I begin with my questions, Ms. Nicoll and Ms. Bailey, I'd like to express our condolences to all of the people and the families who are affected by Typhoon Haiyan. Please express to everyone with whom you are in contact that our thoughts and prayers are with them at this difficult time.
I'd like to begin my questioning.
We've been studying this temporary resident visa program, starting back in the spring of this year. During this time, we have heard from some opposition MPs on this committee and some witnesses, particularly when a negative decision is brought forth, that the decisions are completely arbitrary and that no objective criteria are used.
That's a bit of a concern, so I wonder whether you can tell us whether that is true. If not, can you please explain what criteria are used and how they are applied?
Maybe we can start with you, Ms. Gawel.