Thank you, Mr. Chair.
I would like to address the witnesses.
I have a problem. I do agree entirely with what my colleague Mr. Anandasangaree just said, and I agree entirely with what the witness tells us.
In fact, section 715.24 is entirely acceptable, since the court can allow the accused to appear by videoconference.
However, in section 715.241, it says “le tribunal peut permettre” and, in the English version, “the court may allow”, which does not present a problem, but it then adds “or require.” In French, it says “ou exiger la comparution”. Therein lies the rub. Section 715.241 incorporates this new way of proceeding, where the court may require the witness to appear by videoconference. It does not say “with their consent.”
First, it talks about allowing the witness to appear by videoconference if the witness requests or consents. In English, it says “the court may allow”, but it adds “or require”. I did not hear Mr. Anandasangaree or Mr. Taylor address that aspect of section 715.241.
Is it wise of us to allow the court to require an appearance?
I don't think so. That is also the opinion voiced by the representatives of the Barreau du Québec.
I would like to hear the witness's opinion about this subject, which presents a problem, in my opinion.