It's actually a rather unusual situation, Mr. Chair. Thank you for inviting me.
I left my position in February 2023, so I've been retired for eight months now. When I was contacted late last week, I was pleased to accept the invitation, because I've always believed in the importance of the role that the House of Commons and parliamentary committees play in our democracy.
I'm here because I was still the Conflict of Interest and Ethics Commissioner during the preparation of the annual report currently being studied, as well as certain investigation reports that you may wish to discuss. That's why I'm here.
What's more, I worked with Mr. von Finckenstein at the Department of Justice a very long time ago. I thought it was a little unfair to expect him to be able to study the annual report and assimilate the investigation reports, so I gladly agreed to be here this afternoon to try to help him answer any questions you might have for him.
I'm all yours for any questions and any discussion you wish to have about my time as commissioner—five years altogether.
Thank you again for inviting me.