Justice committee  If I may, I would just like to make a correction to my answer to Mr. Petit. In terms of contributions and the pension plan for judges, it is sections 50 of the act and following. I would like to correct or amend my answer, because I mislead you. Once a judge is appointed, the estate is entitled to a pension upon death, under the provisions of the Act.

Justice committee  The answer is no, in the unfortunate event of a judge dying within two months of being appointed to the bench. There would be a return of contributions. Up to a certain age, contributions are shared between employer and employee. There are all kinds of exceptions and provisions in the Act, but let's just say most people pay 7% of their gross salary over 15 years.

Justice committee  Thank you, Mr. Chair. I'll try to be brief. My name is David Gourdeau, and I am the Commissioner for Federal Judicial Affairs. I'm accompanied today by Mr. Wayne Osborne, the director of our finance division. I will be brief in my presentation, as the role our office plays in the process related to the Judicial Compensation and Benefits Commission and the ensuing drafting of the legislation is limited.