In terms of “the grand inquest of the nation”, that has certainly been cited and included by the Supreme Court of Canada in recognition of the important work of the House and committees in holding the government to account and being able to do its work. The House itself, though, has said in Speaker's rulings that it is important for committees to look to the ambit and the mandate that has been given to them by the House, so it's up to the committee, and ultimately the House, to make those determinations and to do what they can so that they can get to their mandate and fulfill their mission.
