Good morning, Mr. Clark.
In your opening remarks, you said that the outdated nature of the Indian Act was at the root of the unfortunate social situation in Attawapiskat. I would say that the Attawapiskat situation became a source of discomfort for your government only once it started receiving media coverage. I think this situation is the result of a utilitarian relationship that has gradually developed between first nations and a government whose policy is dictated by a corporatist agenda primarily focused on the mining of natural resources. I would like to point out that a diamond mine is located close to that community. Nothing is left to chance.
I have a question about the harmonization of the law and your initiative, as it is proposed. Like me, you heard the testimony of the department's representatives at our last meeting. There was clearly some discomfort over the nearly impossible harmonization of the law when it comes to certain issues, including wills and estates on reserves across the country. In Quebec in particular, there was a real problem with the application of provincial legislation. Another issue had to do with the harmonization of rules that apply to holographs, among other things, and the validity of such documents.
I would like to hear what you have to say about the studies you have conducted. I also want to know how much focus you—and the experts who helped you draft the legislation—have placed on the bill's legal aspects and its applicability on the ground.
Thank you.