So here's the concern, and it's up to committee members how we proceed. If the government members feel intent on having some witnesses prior to this mid-October date when the court case begins, given the majority they hold on the committee, they'll be able to do that. The concern I have--and it was read into the record by Mr. Angus--is a valid concern in terms of balancing our powers as a committee to not cause any harm and to not infringe upon the rights of someone who is before the courts. We've all heard this. This is a good precedent from the House and we must be mindful of this.
So I have a caution about what we're about to agree on. I know as chair that if calling upon witnesses would infringe upon their rights to defend themselves in front of a court, then doing so would be a terrible precedent for any committee to set. That being said, if the government is pursuing this course....
On a point of order, Mr. Del Mastro.