Thank you, Mr. Chair.
I've listened to all of my colleagues. I'll start by reiterating the purpose of the motion, then I'll move a subamendment.
The purpose of the motion is to allow members of the committee to see copies of contracts and the memorandum of understanding. During my career, I signed contracts, and I can tell you that I would be held accountable if I did not honour them. Many people here know exactly what I'm talking about. However, in the case before us today, we're not talking about $20,000; we're talking about billions of dollars.
You know I'm not being partisan with this. I'm interested in the committee's goal. We need to know. Earlier, someone said this is public information and we have to protect our commercial interest given the current crisis. That is very true. However, examining contracts signed with these companies is part of the mandate of the Standing Committee on Government Operations and Estimates. Colleagues who have been here longer than me can correct me if I'm wrong, but I believe that government operations and estimates are part of our job. Accountability is for the Standing Committee on Public Accounts to handle. However, the situation is critical.
For my part, I want the information that was requested to be provided to the committee, and I want it to be accurate. Some of my colleagues also want it to be protected. I am therefore moving a subamendment. I won't read the whole thing, but I'll send it to you.
The section I would amend is this one:
provided that these documents shall be deposited with the clerk of the committee within two weeks, in both official languages and without redaction.
I suggest replacing the words “without redaction” to indicate that the documents must be redacted by a House of Commons law clerk in accordance with applicable legislation.
That's how I suggest we come to a consensus because it is critical that we respond to the concerns of taxpayers who are very worried about their economic future and the status of our industry.