In recent years, the APT has been in contact with officials from the Government of Canada. Interdepartmental discussions are underway. It is true, however, that there is no regular contact. We are also wondering why the Protocol has not at least been signed. Perhaps it has something to do with the change of government in early 2006, and the fact that it is a minority government may also be complicating the discussions. As an international organization, we are not based in Canada. Consequently, we do not have detailed information about those discussions.
In fact, we note with regret that we are not asked for our feedback as often as we could be. A number of governments ask us for technical advice or to help them resolve certain issues. On many occasions, we have offered our assistance and said we are available to facilitate the process. The final decision as to whether Canada will ratify the Protocol and what form the national prevention mechanism will take here in Canada is obviously one to be made by Canadian authorities and, indirectly, by provincial authorities, given that Canada is a federation.
So, that is not really our role, as we are not in a position to apply pressure. But there is no doubt that we have a strong desire to see the situation corrected.