Thanks, Chair.
I would highlight one troubling trend that we see with the Liberals, and it's the disconnect between Parliament and executive government. I think it would be entirely justified for the President of the Treasury Board, as a minister of the Crown, to be the first meeting that takes place. I think it is incumbent upon the position...as the one in charge. It speaks to the necessity of accountability and the fact of where that the buck stops, and then, quite frankly, to the practical matter that if more information comes up, this committee could pass a motion to have that minister appear again.
The disconnect between what Parliament wants, says and in some cases even dictates is simply not respected by the Liberals. I think the ability for that minister to attend the first meeting and to kick off this study makes perfect sense. If there is nothing to hide, that minister should not fear the questions that will be asked and, hopefully, answered.
I certainly don't think we should support the amendment. I think that the President of the Treasury Board can start, and if it necessitates calling the President of the Treasury Board back, then so be it.