That is debate, and I have ruled on this matter.
Colleagues, I can tell you that the first and most important matter I dealt with, with Mr. Mayrand, in making the arrangements for Elections Canada to appear before us was to give him my full assurance with regard to matters that may prejudice or compromise any court or judicial proceeding.
Notwithstanding others' opinions and arguments or references, I can suggest to you that my word is good, Mr. Mayrand, and that I made the understanding with Mr. Mayrand on the full authorization of the committee to go and make the arrangements with Elections Canada. If I've overstepped in terms of doing that, the members may want to deal with me personally. This has nothing to do with Mr. Mayrand. That was my word to him, it was confirmed in writing, and it was also laid out by Mr. Mayrand in his opening remarks. That was the purpose of his opening remarks, to remind us that there was this issue of other proceedings.
So I was clear with Mr. Mayrand and he was clear with me. I thought I was clear with the committee. I thought Mr. Mayrand was clear in his opening statement. I've reaffirmed all this and I've made a decision. That's my ruling.