I have to express some surprise at that, in that the purpose of the bill, and we've heard this very clearly from the minister on a number of occasions, is to comprehend what we have to do as a country in order to ensure not only a safe election but a fair election, and an election where Canadians are able to vote.
Having scrutineers observe the process is a fundamental principle of not only Canadian democracy but of democracy in general. This is why parliamentarians go on trips to bear witness to other elections. That's why the United Nations facilitates election observation missions. It seems to me that if there were a situation where it was so dangerous to have a few extra people in a polling station in order to protect public health at that point, the CEO should be exercising another authority he has, which is to cancel the writ either in that polling station or in that riding generally until such time as a safe vote can be held.
I think it would be a mistake to proceed with an election without allowing the participants themselves, or their representatives, to observe the proceedings. For that reason, Madam Chair, again I have to respectfully dispute your ruling as to the admissibility of this. I think it's well within the scope of the bill, and I think it touches on a very important principle that we're grappling with about how you not only protect public health but protect democracy in the context of a pandemic election.
Respectfully, Madam Chair, I would challenge your ruling and ask for a recorded vote on the matter.