That is a good question.
Firstly, I believe it is important to remember that all GC members have a conflict of interest since we are the ones who get the money from programs that have been developed. Consequently, he is not different in this regard. Furthermore, I can tell you that we are watching each other very closely to ensure that everyone adheres to the ethics code. That is the first thing.
Secondly, I know Dr. Prigent. Several others know him too and had an opportunity to work with him on various projects and were impressed by his abilities, his integrity and his ethical values. This is why we believe he has the qualifications we have been seeking for quite some time.
It is interesting to see that these two persons here ask us what we, in CIHR's GC, were looking for. As a member of the governing council, I know that we have been looking for a long time for the kind of skills that he possesses.
So we believe this person is honest and able, just as all other GC members are. He is not really any different. Finally, I can tell you that we are watching each other to ensure the best ethical practices possible.