Before I begin, I would like clarify for Mr. Jeneroux that the budget was not a scoop. If he goes back to our platform, which he's quoted plenty of times, it's there fair and square. That's not a scoop to me, but I think the work of this committee can inform the government as it moves forward.
One of the things that really struck me last week, when we had Professor Drapeau here—and I'd like to have your take on it—is that he mentioned the role of ATIP coordinators within each department. In his remarks to this committee he said:
At present, they are subservient to the wishes and dictates of the mandarins, not the public or the ATI users which they are mandated to serve. These ATI Coordinators need the status, independence and authority which flow from a [Governor-in-Council] appointment in order to properly perform their [functions]....
I'd like to have, from the three of you, your take on an increased role and that specific recommendation by Mr. Drapeau to have them appointed by the Governor in Council.