Thank you, Mr. Chair.
Thank you to the minister and the officials for joining us here today.
I think that the minister is aware that I am Métis from the Northwest Territories, that I have been involved with land claims and self-government negotiations since the 1970s, and that we still haven't settled a claim yet. I've had a long history with all that is involved when it comes to negotiations.
I think everybody is aware that first nations are required to keep membership lists; at least, Indian Affairs keeps a membership list, and I believe it's the same with the Inuit. However, when it comes to the Métis, there is no list. With all three organizations, whether you're Métis, Inuit or first nations, if you're not on a list, it's hard to get onto a list.
During the study, I listened with real interest as this committee was presented with many witnesses who talked about the importance of the enumeration process for Métis governments. Many talked about parts of the enumeration and talked about requirements for independent audits, and some mentioned that this enrolment process is one of the strictest and toughest in Canada to go through, because you need a whole family history before you can get on the list.
I want to ask the minister to speak to the process used by the Government of Canada to ensure the integrity of the Métis governments' membership lists.