Thank you, Mr. Chair.
Good afternoon, Mr. Kingsley.
Fifteen days ago, our committee took a trip on which it visited a few countries. We went to see how countries were working to ensure democracy. You have worked with IDA. So we've heard about you. The comments on Canada's work for democracy was very flattering. I don't know whether my colleagues agree with me, but whatever the case may be, we were very proud of our electoral system and of the work you're doing.
On page 8 of your speech today, you refer to the way governmental and non-governmental organizations can best contribute to democratic assistance globally. You state the following:
It is useful to reiterate that Elections Canada is an independent agency of Parliament. This independence provides us with credibility and effectiveness on the international scene.
I sensed something in your voice when you read that sentence. As parliamentarians, we aspire to help parliamentarians of other countries. What do you think of the idea of establishing exchanges between parliamentarians in order to ensure democracy?