I would like to call the Standing Committee on Justice and Human Rights to order.
Today is Tuesday, March 4, 2008. The agenda before the committee, pursuant to the order of reference of Monday, January 28, 2008, is Bill C-31, an act to amend the Judges Act.
Appearing as a witness is the Minister of Justice, the Honourable Rob Nicholson. Thank you, Minister, for appearing. From the Department of Justice we have Ms. Judith Bellis, general counsel, judicial affairs, courts and tribunal policy. We also have Mr. David Near, judicial affairs advisor, Department of Justice.
Welcome.
I believe I have one other individual here, Ms. Catherine McKinnon....