If you recall, as we headed into the session last year in September, a year ago, I indicated that there was the possibility of variants and that Parliament needed to remain flexible in the wake of that possibility. Very unfortunately, we got hit by omicron, and omicron shut down Parliament again. It forced us once again, not only in this Parliament but across the country, to return to a state of lockdown in our homes. In fact, most of us spent last Christmas—and I certainly hope it's not the case this Christmas—having to celebrate outside and meeting relatives outside.
That was the state of the world at that point in time. I sincerely hope that we don't face that again. I think we're using these provisions responsibly now.
I am not clairvoyant. I can't tell you whether there will or won't be another variant. It's my sincere hope there will not be, but these provisions are important to maintain flexibility in the event of another public health crisis.