At the time, I had just left the academic world. I had no experience of the federal apparatus and the political world. I was told that my name was on the short list of candidates for the position of commissioner, but I had never applied for this position. Nonetheless, I came to the hearing. I know that the parties had been consulted. I had to appear before a joint committee of the Senate and the House of Commons. I testified at my own nomination, and a few days later, my appointment was approved by the Senate and the House. It was an open vote, there was no roll call. I must tell you that I appreciated the fact that it was an open vote. When you set out on an adventure that will last seven years, you need to know that you have the support of the parliamentarians and the Parliament to whom you are accountable.
On May 11th, 2006. See this statement in context.