Mr. McSweeney, I'd like to speak the truth and nothing but the truth.
The request to set up an environmental commission came late, in my estimation. That's how the judge ruled. This initiative is no longer in the project stage, it has become a reality. The request needed to be submitted earlier.
As far as substance is concerned, we didn't find an answer. However, a request was submitted by the then minister. It arrived several days before the elections. That's also a fact. Mindful that this was a very important issue in the Gaspé region, the announcement came only several days before the elections. It could have come six months, or even a year earlier, but it didn't. The truth needs to be stated. You weren't there, but I was, and I can attest to these facts.
Given the potential impact on the environment in general and on marine resources, I wonder if you would be open to an independent environmental assessment.