Mr. Lemire, thank you for your question.
You won't be surprised to hear me say that I don't share the pessimistic view that we're on the verge of a change in government. I do not want that, as it would be a setback in terms of support for indigenous peoples, and not just when it comes to issues related to the administration of justice. However, I understand your sentiment. I'm teasing you, of course, but I would have rather talked about parliamentary timelines and the general election, which would take place in 12 or 15 months, after Parliament is dissolved.
Having said that, I am fully aware of the timeline. That is underpinning my current conversation with the national chief of the Assembly of First Nations. I also understand the objective of wanting a bill that clearly defines the essential nature and the recurrence of funding, as I said.
That said, your political party is very interested in matters of provincial jurisdiction. I will not hide the fact that it is quite a challenge to find the right way for the Parliament of Canada to legislate in this matter while taking into account the provincial justice systems and police services. I am still very optimistic following my conversations with my counterpart Mr. Bonnardel, who wants to be a partner. The Sûreté du Québec, which is showing a lot of good will, is also an important partner for us in this regard. I just need to find a way of doing things that meets the essential and important objective, but that doesn't put us in a position where we could be criticized in court for trying to legislate in an area of provincial jurisdiction.
I'm not saying this to provoke you. I admit that, in other cases, you may tell us that we are not sensitive enough, but—