I believe my last question was broached either by my colleague Mr. Proulx or by Mr. Godin.
You mentioned that keeping the restaurant open as long as possible in order to welcome visitors presents some security concerns. Have you checked out how things are done at the Quebec National Assembly? Ever since the Lortie incident when gunfire erupted on the floor of the Assembly chamber, surely security at the National Assembly must be as tight as it is here in Ottawa. The situation is likely no different at other provincial legislative assemblies. However, I did visit the legislative assembly of Prince Edward Island, which is about the same size as this room and which totals 24 members. I saw how people moved about. Despite the events at the Quebec National Assembly, officials decided to make the operations of the parliamentary restaurant as cost-effective as possible. They offer regional and theme brunches as well as a lobster and oyster festival, to mention just a few events which generate revenues. The restaurant is open to the general public. They have established a solid business. Has anyone met with the chef or the women in charge of restaurant services? I believe the woman’s name is Violette. Has anyone looked at how the National Assembly’s restaurant managed to turn the situation around and become a profitable venture? You can understand that keeping the restaurant open to the public will allow our employees to work longer, even when Parliament is not in session.