Mr. Finkelstein, I have a question for you. As you know, a whistleblower would be more comfortable appearing before independent judges than he would be appearing before a government body, which could be subject to pressure from the government. We know full well that such bodies do not have the same independence that superior court judges have long enjoyed.
Bill C-2 recommends that the tribunal comprise independent judges, such as Justice Gomery. Justice Gomery was chosen partly because he was independent of political power or influence. Relying on a government body, no matter which one it is, could create a problem. Take the example of somebody who is appointed for four or five years; when he reaches the end of his mandate, he could be offered a renewal of his contract, a higher salary, a bigger office, and so forth, on the condition that he toe the party line. A lot of pressure can be brought to bear on a government body. In Quebec, we experienced a similar situation with the administrative tribunals.
Have you reflected upon the fact that a whistleblower would undoubtedly feel more comfortable before superior court judges, given their long-recognized judicial independence?