The services of the Translation Bureau are provided through a healthy mix of internal resources and external resources. As a result, we are close to achieving this balance. We are using internal and external resources.
As the minister said, we have achieved unprecedented levels of efficiency. We have invested in computer systems to process orders electronically. Going from paper to computers has enabled us to save $4 million. As a result, when you see a drop, you are also seeing a drop as a result of efficiency. We have managed to reduce our operating costs.
We have also just completed a rather innovating project, a language portal, for which we have received funding as votes. The language portal allows people across Canada and around the world to access our terminology and our documentation, which was not possible before.
This new electronic access supports the development of the private sector. We are always mindful of how our activities affect the private sector with which we work closely. We must also follow up on the requests of various government departments.
Finally, as you know, the Translation Bureau works on a cost recovery basis. It is an optional, not a mandatory, service. As the minister said, departments can also directly use the services of the private sector. They are not required to exclusively use the services of the Translation Bureau.