We have of course received information from Passport Canada. The way we see it is that the key problem with the passports is the distribution of volume. The urban regions are well-served by Passport Canada offices. The problem lies in the more remote or rural regions where there is to my mind an unduly high burden on members' offices.
During the meeting, Passport Canada was asked for data on volume, by postal code, for passports processed. That seems to be the key aspect for opening a new office. The office in Kelowna was opened based on volume. Data is currently lacking for Sudbury, Sherbrooke and in other offices. We do not have that data, but Passport Canada should be providing it.
If the committee wishes to make recommendations on adding new offices or service organizations, that should be based on volume data.