Thank you, Madam Chair.
First off, Ms. Ryan, thank you for joining us today.
I'd also like to take a few seconds to thank the outgoing Parliamentary Budget Officer, Mr. Jacques, and his entire team. We often forget the Parliamentary Budget Officer is supported by a gigantic team. Actually, it's a small team, too small a team, but it's made up of very competent people. I'd like to take a second to thank them and to tell them how grateful we are for their work.
As you know, we've asked many questions about the appointment process. That's on the record. The Conservatives asked questions, as did we. We asked that Mr. Jacques be reappointed. Just to be clear, this had nothing to do with the quality of your candidacy, your résumé and your experience. I think that needs to be said. Looking at your résumé, there's no doubt you're highly qualified for the position. So is Mr. Jacques.
As you know, the Prime Minister himself appointed Mr. Jacques. He thought he was very competent, that he was the right person for the job. However, a few weeks later, here in committee, the Minister of Finance and National Revenue began undermining his credibility. In fact, he refused to say if he thought he was qualified for the job. We were told to invite Kevin Page to testify with him. Was that because the Parliamentary Budget Officer's word had apparently no value?
How do we know that two weeks after your nomination the Prime Minister will still find you competent?