Evidence of meeting #130 for Procedure and House Affairs in the 42nd Parliament, 1st Session. (The original version is on Parliament’s site, as are the minutes.) The winning word was process.
A video is available from Parliament.
Calgary Midnapore, CPC
Thank you.
I want to return to selecting the established seven member advisory board to you. What processes were you considering to select these individuals? Again, I know that in your many roles, you've had opportunities where you've had to select both staff and advisers. What will you consider as you go to determine these seven individuals? Really, they will have the significant role of advising you in terms of determining the terms, the procedures, and the content of these debates.
Nominee for the position of Debates Commisioner, As an Individual
First of all, I'll go to the mandate in terms of how that advisory board is described. In fact, there are criteria there that indicate the kind of experience one is looking for.
The second is to consult thoughtfully and widely, beginning with this committee. Your views on more particular qualities beyond what is set out in the mandate would be most welcome. We would want to get at it expeditiously. There is some discussion that it will be done by spring. I would like to have it done before then. You know, spring is April, and October comes quickly. One wants to get on with not only the specific debates but all of the educational processes, and to consult beyond that, beginning with some of the 30-plus stakeholders who appeared before your committee and gave very thoughtful advice.
That would be the process we'd take. Obviously, you can't spend six months consulting. You have to get on with a job within a smaller time frame to be sure that you're getting a range of views, and then make a decision.
Calgary Midnapore, CPC
Thank you. I have tremendous respect for you, and I appreciate your being here today.
Liberal
Scott Simms Liberal Coast of Bays—Central—Notre Dame, NL
Mr. Chair, I have a quick point of order here. I think Dr. Johnston said earlier, quite convincingly, that every time we mention his former title, we owe his charity $10.
I think both Ms. Kusie and I are up at $10 each. I said with interest, too, so that's another $5....
Liberal
The Chair Liberal Larry Bagnell
That was a very good point of order.
I thank the committee for their thoughtful questions.
Mr. Johnston, as you can see, you have great respect from all the members here. You're a great man and a great Canadian.
Thank you.
Nominee for the position of Debates Commisioner, As an Individual
Thank you, Mr. Chair.