Thank you, Mr. Chair.
Minister, thank you for being with us. Thanks as well for mentioning in your opening remarks the mythic village of Clova, in your region, which was hit by the fires. We're in a similar situation in Abitibi-Témiscamingue, and I understand the feeling of being on alert. I offer all my sympathies and support to the people in your riding, particularly the forest workers and outfitting operators. An entire economic sector is being threatened.
I also want to re‑extend our invitation to meet with us again to discuss the 2023-2024 supplementary estimates in accordance with our order of reference. That's a meeting that committee members always appreciate, as you know.
First, I'd like to address a few points. Bill C‑42 would introduce a new social and environmental responsibility regime for business corporations. I want to emphasize that businesses would be required to consider environmental, social and governance factors in their business decisions and measures. The purpose of this provision is to encourage businesses to adopt a long-term vision and to make a positive contribution to society in addition to generating profits. In the Bloc Québécois' view, these are positive elements. I also want to note that you accepted our recommendation to increase transparency and to ensure greater shareholder accountability by increasing the responsibilities of corporate officers.
However, certain questions remain unanswered. Perhaps you can provide us with some clarification. For example, if business A belongs to corporation B, which in turn belongs to corporation C, is it possible to determine who is the beneficial owner, the one who makes the decisions, if the business is established in a less cooperative country, and if information isn't automatically disclosed to Canada? I am thinking of tax havens, for example.
Would Bill C‑42 help identify the actual owner of a business that has assets in Canada?