Mr. Chair, the motion also mustn't be distorted by comments and requests for clarification. The motion calls for a minimum, not a maximum, of four committee meetings. In my estimation, we'll need a minimum of four meetings. We may be able to accomplish everything in just four meetings using the methodology proposed by my colleagues. However, the motion does say “a minimum of four meetings”.
We'll also be inviting people to submit briefs and show their desire to appear as witnesses. I'm not worried about whom we'll invite. Every committee member said that they wanted to hear all points of view. So all points of view must be heard, including the patients' point of view. Some of them have said that, if the guidelines were adopted as they stand, this could impede access to innovative drugs in the coming years. I'm very concerned about this.
People are reporting that their voices weren't heard throughout the Patented Medicine Prices Review Board process. They want to take the floor and provide input. The methodology is important. However, it doesn't matter to me, as long as we make it clear that each party can propose a witness, as we did with the other motion.
I think that this discussion can take place in a subcommittee and that we're certainly ready to vote on the motion today.