For the record, we've stated that we are not in favour of this bill, but we do believe in having the discussion. I think a proposal was put forward the other day that we would hold about four more hearings.
Alex has made it clear that we could get this discussed and before Parliament before the Remembrance week break, and I think that's fair. The last meeting this committee held was one of the most constructive we've had. We had good witnesses from both sides on this issue who outlined valid points that I think give us an idea of where we need to go forward in the future. Frank and Randy's proposal may be an area where we can deal with that.
So I don't see limiting the discussion. I hope we can get through this bill before the Remembrance week break and in the interim deal with the extremely important issue of government programs and the advance payment program. We need to have the department before us so we can answer some of the producers' questions. They are facing financial hardship and need some answers on where they may be able to go to stay in the industry and have some financial well-being.
So that's where we're at, Mr. Chair.