Thank you, Mr. Chair.
I wonder whether we might consider another work plan. As I recall, there was much talk of that during the discussion surrounding Canada's 150th anniversary. I think it is often reckless to approach work schedules with the idea that you will spend eight weeks on a given matter and then see how it turns out. Speaking of Canada's 150th anniversary, I have long suggested that we spend one meeting a month on the topic for the next five years, with the option of dealing with other subjects in the meantime.
In this case, could we not set a work schedule for the amendments? We would hear from witnesses during our 12 or so meeting hours a week, and we could decide to discuss amendment X or Y. That way, we could extend the deadline. Next week, we would hear from other witnesses.
I will not come up with the methodology. I haven't been an MP for seven years, just seven months. The fact remains, the need is there and so is the good will. Basically, I am wondering whether we could revisit how we extend the period allotted to our amendment debates, rather than always imposing a cut-off date on the whole matter and constantly having to push it back. I find that very restricting.