Mr. Chair, the original motion mentioned two potential witnesses, namely the department and Mr. Donnelly's clients. Mr. Donnelly admitted that he may have erred by asking for a study, rather than a hearing. Mr. Blais proposed an amendment to that effect.
The government seems to assume that a hearing will automatically result in a study and that we are prepared to look at a witness list. I disagree with the last point. The committee has to decide first if a study is warranted. I don't think it is appropriate at this time to consider a potential witness list. The witnesses have already been identified and all that's left is to hold a meeting and let them testify. Then we will see if we need to proceed further and undertake a study.
I agree with Mike that we should put the subamendment to a vote.