I understand the importance of regional representation on the Supreme Court. In this process we have made it very clear that regional representation is something fundamental that the advisory board should consider in assessing candidates.
Likewise, in terms of our government commitments, the next Supreme Court justice, and all members of the short list that's put together by the board, must be functionally bilingual. We also want to ensure—and this is in the assessment criteria—that there is a reflection of diversity in terms of the candidates that are brought forward. The mandate letter that the Prime Minister wrote to former Prime Minister Kim Campbell states very clearly that on the short list of three to five candidates, there will be candidates from Atlantic Canada.
Again, I recognize that regional representation is important. So too is diversity. So too is ensuring that we have the most qualified jurist to fill the vacancy of Justice Cromwell. I have every expectation that there will be a significant number of qualified jurists from Atlantic Canada who will put their names forward.