My understanding is that the changes that are being put forward in terms of a first cut at legislative proposals are in the mandate letters. My understanding is also that Minister Brison has suggested there could be additional significant improvements as part of the first package. This committee is reviewing this matter and is going to make recommendations to the government. The government has also started consultations.
In terms of what the landscape of the proposed legislation would be, I am not privy to this information at this point. There are many actors who are going to have a voice in this, including Canadians. This is first.
Second, I would hope that if there is a proposal to amend the act, there would be consultation with my office in terms of the financial implications, and that it would be brought forward at the same time as proposed legislation makes its way through cabinet. That would be the regular process.
I am hoping that we would be involved in that process and that there would be consideration of the financial impact, not just on my office but also on institutions. If the administration of Parliament, for instance—as is one of the proposals—becomes subject to access to information requests, there has to be an analysis of the cost for the administration of Parliament as well. All of these things will have to be factored into the cabinet process.