We have vacancies on a regular basis.
Again, I want to thank you for your comments, Mr. Murphy, with respect to the bona fides of the judges we have nominated. We take into consideration a number of things. One of your colleagues was talking about our sensitivity to people who speak both official languages, or to have individuals who can respond to the needs of a particular community across this country.
Since taking office, we've appointed 146 judges to this point in time. I expect vacancies will continue on a regular basis. With the amendments to the Judges Act--you will remember just before Christmas we had a considerable increase in the number of judges who either went supernumerary or retired, so that put added pressure. We have been very consistent in terms of not trying to meet any particular quota or timetable. We want to make sure we get the right people and we get qualified individuals who will do honour to their sovereign and their country in taking on this huge responsibility. It's a role we take very seriously.
Again, the 20 I'm talking about are over and above any existing positions or any vacancies. If there are two vacancies, for instance, in the province of New Brunswick, we tend to fill those vacancies as expeditiously as possible. Then, once this bill is passed, we will be in discussion with chief justices across this country in terms of the allocation from the pool.
I hope that answers your question.