You mentioned January 4. Normally, after January 4, you would know who is eligible, would you not? What problem would be solved if the bill were adopted on October 20? The government's heart is apparently in the right place regarding long-tenured beneficiaries. After having passed through Parliament, through the committee and through Senate before being adopted on October 20, would there be a problem with this bill if everything was scheduled for January 4?
On October 6th, 2009. See this statement in context.