During our training we make sure that each decision-maker is able to fulfil his or her duties as skilfully as possible. That obviously means that they have to be able to express empathy with asylum seekers who are more vulnerable than other individuals appealing to the administrative tribunal. Rest assured that we will continue to ensure that each decision-maker, new or not, will continue to display the requisite empathy for asylum seekers.
With respect to the independence of these individuals, once again rest assured. All decision-makers are independent. Independence, from a legal perspective, means the absence of any undue influence. Whether the individuals are appointed by order in council or whether they are civil servants, we make sure that each decision-maker has sufficient independence to be able to make decisions that are consistent with the law.