I think the bill contains that provision, which is very similar to the brief. That's what we call it. I think you can, in practice, file a complaint with the Commissioner of the Environment and Sustainable Development.
The opportunity to exert influence and participate doesn't exist in the Quebec legislation, but we think this is worthwhile and desirable. Environmental problems are extremely complex. We are dealing with problems associated with climate change that will be increasingly extreme. So we are absolutely going to need the wisdom of the public and the ability to discuss environmental protection policy with the public.
I think that governments are going to come out looking better as a result of this. These problems are very complex and environmental policy should have the support of as many people as possible. We hope that people will be consulted on broad policy, something that is not provided in the Quebec statute.
For example, there could be an Internet registry. I very much like the sound of what you're saying. It is very interesting. I think that Bill C-469 will open the door to measures, while not specifying whether it's on the Internet or not. It opens the door to suggestions from the public about policy and allows for public openness about these things. I welcome that aspect. That's in Bill C-469.
I would sometimes even like it to be taken further. When the provincial governments and the Government of Canada have to decide about doing oil or gas exploration, or are considering legislation about mines, for example, or how to exploit our natural resources, it would be a good thing if they could hold public consultations when policy is to be made. There could be public hearings bureaus on the environment or commissions that would allow for calm debate about the future of oil and gas resource exploitation development, and even for windmill and alternative energy development. If broad public policy is being made, it is important to seek out public wisdom.
In Quebec, there have been a few exercises relating to forestry, through the Coulombe Commission. It has been done for water and hazardous waste, and I think that improved environmental legislation enormously. That kind of commission can do an in-depth study of the issues and propose new policies to our politicians and officials, who often need those ideas themselves. Managing environmental problems is a culture of complexity. It is not easy.