Mr. Chair, you just said that we cannot move any motions today. Therefore, you should know that I intend to give notice of motion to address the situation with Mr. Small and Ms. Morin. I will follow Mr. Holland's lead.
I do not have a problem with your calling these two individuals and attempting perhaps to convince them to appear. I'm sure that you can be quite convincing. WIth all due respect, I don't have a problem with that. However, should these persons turn down our invitation, then we will give notice of motion to compel them to appear.
You mentioned that it is impossible for some witnesses to come and testify and that we are used to this. I can understand why Joe Blow might not be interested in appearing before a committee. However, public office holders have a duty not only to act in a transparent manner, but also to answer to the people for their actions.
I think these individuals have a duty to testify before the committee about what happened during the G20 and about why a number of Quebeckers and Canadians were detained. The committee isn't asking to hear from Joe Blow. It wants to hear from people entrusted with very important responsibilities.
I agree with your decision to contact them. I'm a very courteous person and I'm very pleased to see that you will be calling them, but we still intend to give notice of motion.