I won't belabour it. I will say three things in response to my friends who have spoken.
First, this police investigation could take years. We have no way of knowing how long it will take. I think that if years go by, the erosion of the trust Canadians have in their tax system could be a serious consequence.
Second, Mr. Keddy asserts that the CRA has done a good job. I have no way of evaluating that, and this committee is looking precisely for that, and to deal with the cultural issues that have been spoken of.
And third, I accept what Mr. Jean is saying from a criminal lawyer's perspective. However, I would have to say that even if matters were held in camera and treated with the respect and confidentiality they require, we could reassure Canadians, if we are satisfied that the work is done well, that the CRA has done a good job. We could give them that confidence that I think is desperately needed at a time when these allegations are swirling around. For that reason alone, I think it's important that we proceed.