Thank you. I have been a member of the committee since 2004. In the past, when the department had concerns about certain issues that it wished to deal with on a priority basis, it could send a letter setting out the most important viewpoints. The steering committee would subsequently take note of the letters and set priorities, if it deemed that appropriate.
I fail to see the relevance of having the parliamentary secretary on the steering committee. However, if the department wants to share with us its priorities, then the minister can request an appearance before us.