The nomination of someone representing any sector does not touch on the mandate of independence. The independence is there. I find it hard to believe that the presence of one person from one sector could derail the mandate of the governing council.
Once again, I have been asked to sit on the governing council as a citizen and as someone who brings experience. And that experience can be brought to the service of the public good.
I tend to take my cues from the international environment. As I said, when you look at the Medical Research Council, the United Kingdom is paying a lot of attention to issues similar to those here. And they have this as a standard practice. If you look at the similar body in Australia, it's the same. If you're looking at a similar organization in France, it's the same.
So the principle, if you like.... And I fully share your concerns. But we cannot have a situation where, when it comes to thinking strategically about the health of Canadians, we're creating some kind of intellectual apartheid, with some people not being asked to the table.
I find it extremely surprising. If there's one thing I pay attention to, it's the conflict of interest. I think it's important.
If you go into a private research institution and a public research institution, there is no difference. These people come from the same background. They have the same goals. They want to do good and they want to bring innovation to the service of patients. It's important to take that into consideration when you're looking at the appointment.
I understand the sensitivity, but it's really important for Canada and for CIHR to move forward and tackle--