I would like to take advantage of the fact that we are talking about amendments, including those of the Green Party, to reiterate our strong opposition to the process imposed on the committee. This process takes away the traditional rights fundamentally acquired—and for good reason—by independent members of Parliament or party members not recognized by the House of Commons. Given the tradition and given that those members of Parliament cannot sit on committees the way we do, they do not have the same rights as us. They had acquired the right to introduce amendments in the House at report stage. However, their right was denied, and we strongly oppose that.
We condemn the initiative of the Conservative government. Furthermore, we are extremely surprised that the committee member representing the Liberal Party has also supported this government measure, which takes away a good number of the few rights independent MPs can still have in the House and in committees.
Once again, we will vote the way we have to vote unfortunately. However, I hope that the government does not make a habit out of this for future bills, or a habit that could be seen in other committees in terms of some of the other aspects we have discussed.
Each MP here in this committee also represents a riding. We have the right to represent our constituents. Unfortunately, this right has largely been taken away from those who represent the constituents of their ridings without their party being recognized by the House.
Thank you.