We could rewrite Enron's history, but I do not think that is the purpose of your question. In the Enron affair, there are several accomplices. Last week, two of the corporation's most important executives were found guilty. The example comes from the top.
The printed copy of my text includes quotes from Warren Buffet who states that integrity is truly what is most important. Other associations, like ours, have stated that history alone will determine what Bill C-2 will resolve. Within the system, you need a good organizational culture that promotes dialogue and includes checks and balances, which often helps the Auditor General establish whether the mistake is attributable to internal auditing. The process was in place, but it was not in the right place, if I can put it that way. Will setting up independent autonomous internal audit committees for a department or a Crown corporation correct the mistake? In the corporate sector, much has been said about independent audit committees that have proven their worth. We are eager to see them established. The policy will only come into force in 2007, but we have been assured that several departments are already interested.
Many of our members throughout Canada, licensed general accountants, have a vast expertise and considerable experience in the corporate world and other areas. They would like to sit on these committees that would not just be committees of accountants. No one can say that it's the accountants or the auditor's fault, because they are an integral part of the system. You are aware that financial officers are in the hot seat. They are on the front line in this sector. In this situation, it was not clear that financial officers were present.
I am not sure that I have answered your question, Mr. Petit, that was my morning skating exercise.