I call this meeting to order.
Welcome to meeting number 37 of the House of Commons Standing Committee on Justice and Human Rights.
Pursuant to the order of reference of October 31, the committee is meeting to begin its study of Bill C-9, an act to amend the Judges Act.
Today's meeting is taking place in a hybrid format pursuant to the House order of June 23, 2022. Members are attending in person in the room and remotely using the Zoom application.
I'd like to make a few comments for the benefit of witnesses and members.
Please wait until I recognize you by name before speaking. For those participating via video conference, click on the microphone icon to activate your mike and please mute yourself when you are not speaking.
For interpretation, for those on Zoom, you have the choice at the bottom of your screen of either floor, English or French. For those in the room, you can use the earpiece and select the desired channel.
I will remind you that all comments should be addressed to the chair. For members in the room, if you wish to speak, please raise your hand. For members on Zoom, please use the “raise hand” function. The clerk and I will manage the speaking order as best we can. We appreciate your patience.
I also use elementary cue cards to tell you when there are 30 seconds remaining and when you're out of time. I don't like interrupting. Hopefully, you'll keep your eye out for that. This committee is actually really good at keeping time.
I'd now like to welcome our first witness appearing today. We have the good pleasure—
Go ahead, Mr. Fortin.