Evidence of meeting #8 for Special Committee on the Canadian Mission in Afghanistan in the 40th Parliament, 2nd Session. (The original version is on Parliament’s site, as are the minutes.) The winning word was kandahar.
A recording is available from Parliament.
12:10 p.m.
Conservative
The Chair Conservative Rick Casson
Well, I understand that, but as indicated, this is an open session, and we have to use caution here.
12:10 p.m.
Conservative
12:10 p.m.
Conservative
The Chair Conservative Rick Casson
It is. That's right, and it's part of what we said we'd do.
Is there anybody else?
Thank you for that intervention.
Ms. Golberg, I want to thank you very much. It was quite remarkable sitting here listening to you, and also when we visited with you in Afghanistan. We obviously at times get the right person in the right spot for the right job, and I truly believe that you fill all of those. Your commitment to Canada and to the people of Afghanistan is remarkable. To have somebody with your clarity come before the committee is very refreshing, so we thank you very much for that.
If you have any closing comments you wish to make, please do.
12:10 p.m.
Former Representative of Canada in Kandahar, Department of Foreign Affairs and International Trade
No, sir. Thank you very much for the opportunity to be here. I can tell you that you have a team of remarkable public servants who day in and day out appreciate the fact that they're representing you and representing all Canadians, and they're doing it to the best of their abilities.
12:10 p.m.
Conservative
The Chair Conservative Rick Casson
Could you just make one comment for us on how important it is, whether it's a defence committee or this committee or officials from Canada, to visit the area to interact with both the military and civilian people?
12:10 p.m.
Former Representative of Canada in Kandahar, Department of Foreign Affairs and International Trade
I have certainly always found it to be extremely valuable. I felt the committee members found it valuable as well. It gives you a better feel for the day-to-day work that's under way. I will say that it is logistically a challenge, so please don't underestimate that. In order for us to make sure you see the things you want to see, we have to make sure the right provisions are in place.
12:10 p.m.
Conservative
The Chair Conservative Rick Casson
Very good.
We thank you very much.
The committee will suspend for five minutes while we go in camera.
[Proceedings continue in camera]
