The amendments that I put forward basically relate to trying to ensure that the bill is inclusive of all of the demographics that we're trying to reach out to. One of the most important demographics in Canada is the aboriginal peoples, including first nations, the Inuit, and the Métis people. We heard from a number of different stakeholders from these respective organizations, who all had serious concerns in regards to the fact that they were not included in the original bill.
When we took a look at the Kelowna accord where there was an investment of almost $5.1 billion, we realized that within the accord, there was also a substantial investment to the tune of $345 million over a period of five years for first nations, in particular for early learning and child care. To ensure that this bill is reflective of the needs of many Canadians across this country, we must ensure that we include the aboriginal people, which would include first nations, the Inuit, and the Métis.
I think the hesitation of the AFN, one of the leading spokespeople organizations, to support the bill was in regards to the fact that they had been excluded. I think it's the responsibility of parliamentarians to represent our country, and we must ensure that they are included in this bill, moving forward.
I know the clerk has ruled it out of order because they have deemed it to be out of scope. But I hope that we would have the support of all committee members to have an inclusive bill and include the aboriginal people.
So I would request that the chair please rule it in order. If he is hesitant to do that, perhaps he can put a recorded vote to the committee.