In fact, I just placed a call this afternoon to Mr. Sirman to congratulate him on his appearance before the committee. I thank the committee for your unanimous endorsement of Mr. Sirman. As you saw for yourself, he's highly qualified and very enthusiastic to take on his new role. I also had the opportunity over this past weekend to meet with Madame Karen Kain, who is the chair of the board of the Canada Council. I've asked Mr. Sirman that upon his confirmation we would meet and then start talking about the plans going forward.
So yes, I have met with Mr. Sirman. I am very supportive of him. I understand what his vision of the arts and culture is, and I also recognize his commitment to the arts and the cultural field.