Thank you, Mr. Chair.
The amendment proposes that Bill C‑61, in clause 39, be amended by adding after line 11 on page 19 the following:
(d.1) considering matters relating to water pollution on First Nation lands and making recommendations to the federal, provincial and territorial governments and First Nations in this regard by taking into account, among other things, existing frameworks and best practices related to pollution caused by certain dangerous substances discharged into the aquatic environments on First Nation lands; and
What we're aiming for here is a monitoring function and a review of best practices with respect to hazardous substances being dumped into aquatic environments. Water, as we know, is constantly evolving. I think the commission should have the necessary means to bring in competent people who can advise it and support first nations in the event of a disaster, such as a spill. This would allow the commission to make decisions that are tailored and based on the most modern science possible.