Mr. Chairman, I would like to come back to my earlier question. Mr. Bard may be in the best position to give me the information I am seeking. Many times the purchase of computer equipment is problematic if we want to buy equipment that is not on the list recommended by the Information Technology Operations Service. I must say that sometimes, even though we may not be thinking bad thoughts, it is difficult not to conclude that one company is receiving preferential treatment, to the detriment of another.
One example would be digitizers. The only company you suggest we purchase from is Hewlett-Packard. Their price for a scanner ranges from $243 to $300. I personally bought a Cannon for $89. We are not talking about a local brand here; this is Cannon. IT technicians tend to refuse to install it for me if it is not on the list.
So this is what I am asking: if you want us to purchase equipment that is on your list—because you test these products and then make recommendations—you have to offer us a competitive price range. We can buy a good scanner with an extended warranty for less than $100. There is no reason why I should devote $300 from my budget to that. That is my first point. I referred to scanners, but the same applies to computers and all the other accessories.
Please answer that question, and if I still have time left, I will address one to Ms. Kennedy.