Mr. Chair, I understand the intention behind the motion that Mr. Noormohamed is bringing forward today, and I don't disagree with the principle.
However, we're at day one of what's proposed in the motion. In other words, we're coming to the end of the first meeting that Mr. Noormohamed proposes be held on consideration of this bill. If we had had this proposal and discussion earlier, today's meeting might have been planned differently. Allow me to explain.
The Bloc Québécois attaches importance to consideration of the bill, and we intend to call very few witnesses. We've invited only two witnesses, whom I consider extremely relevant. We would like to have a chance to hear those two witnesses and to have them heard in committee. However, I can't confirm now that either of those witnesses or that the two witnesses invited by the Bloc Québécois will be available on April 30, the last date we have on which to hear witnesses.
It seems to me that precipitating matters in this manner will prevent us from doing a proper job. Once again, I don't disagree with the idea at all. We definitely have to work quickly. We have a lot on our plate between now and the end of our parliamentary business. However, I don't think it makes sense to allow only one more meeting to hear from witnesses before commencing clause-by-clause consideration. That shows a lack of respect for the parliamentary business we have to conduct.
I therefore move an amendment in the same spirit as that of Mr. Noormohamed's motion, but one that will at least allow the committee some time to do its work properly in the present circumstances.
I will read the proposed amendment:
That, notwithstanding the motion adopted by the committee on Thursday, February 1, 2024, with respect to the review of Bill C-316, the Committee schedule a minimum of three meetings with witnesses on April 18, April 30 and May 2 respectively, that the deadline for amendments be no earlier than April 30, 2024 and that the Committee begin clause-by-clause no earlier than May 7, 2024.
I have the written version here, in English and French, which I can immediately offer to our clerk so she can retranscribe it and circulate it to committee members.
Thank you.