Thank you, Mr. Chair.
I'd echo my colleague Madam Kusie's comments on this. I've been on committees now for almost 10 years. It is poor form to do this, particularly at the start of a brand new committee.
I want to make one additional point to all colleagues here. This is our committee. Committees are supposed to operate independently of the minister. If you're approached by a minister saying, “Hey, this is the only time I can make it”, think of your colleagues here. We're all here to do good work in Parliament and to say, “You know what, Minister? This is our committee. This is something where, collectively, we want to have a good rapport with everybody in this room.” I would just make that point.
I'd be fully prepared to see the minister here.
In the future, these are just words of advice to my colleagues on the other side.