Thank you, Mr. Chair. Thank you to our witnesses for being here today.
I just want to take the opportunity to acknowledge that we did just have the second National Day for Truth and Reconciliation. I want to just acknowledge survivors and descendants from my riding, and of course, across Atlantic Canada and throughout the nation. I was fortunate enough to attend a ceremony. It was anticipated that 50 people would be there and there were hundreds of people. I think that speaks to the important work that's being undertaken and how effective it is at communicating just how critical it is for all of us to walk this road of reconciliation.
I want to point out that there have been several organizations and self-governing first nations who have voiced concerns about, perhaps, a lack of consultation for the legislation and the national council. They might feel left out of the process.
Could you please elaborate on the consultation process that the interim board undertook to advise on what the national council for reconciliation would look like and just how important it is to include indigenous voices every step of the way? Thank you.