Madam Chair, there are precedents for an independent public inquiry into extremely sensitive matters that sometimes involve issues potentially related to the safety of certain individuals in the event information is disclosed. That's why in camera meetings have been held in previous independent public inquiries in order to obtain that kind of information. That's the best way to shed light on a matter.
Three secret services from foreign countries were involved in the Maher Arar inquiry. Ultimately, an independent public inquiry was established, as was the case of the bombing of Air India flight 182. There are precedents.
Mr. Johnston says that the subject matter of an independent public inquiry has been discussed and considered but that certain factors prevent one from being held. I would very respectfully respond to him by saying that it has previously been done.
I'd go even further. Dan Stanton, former executive manager of the Canadian Security Intelligence Agency, gave compelling testimony on this point. He feels that Mr. Johnston is wrong in saying that a public inquiry is impossible. Mr. Stanton said that foreign interference is one of the easiest issues to explore through a public inquiry, and knows what he's talking about.
Mr. Johnston, I'd like to know your opinion of Mr. Stanton's statements and past experiences that show that an independent public inquiry is possible.