It's totally understandable, but we'll do what we can. We'll thank the second group of witnesses once we go to the bells, and people can be on their merry way, and we won't go past 6:30 p.m.
I will go quickly, given the time. I will stop the first round a little early so that we can get on to the second round.
For the first panel, we have with us, from the African Nova Scotian Justice Institute, DeRico Symonds, director of engagement and justice initiatives.
He is participating in the meeting by video conference.
From the Canadian Constitution Foundation, we have Christine Van Geyn, litigation director.
From the Ligue des droits et libertés, we have Lucia Flores Echaiz, lawyer and Lynda Khelil, spokesperson.
From the Canadian Bar Association, we have with us Kyla Lee, lawyer, who is participating in the meeting by video conference.
I remind you that each witness has five minutes to make their opening statement. I will be very strict about speaking time. We will then move on to the questions from the committee members.
I extend our welcome to our witnesses.
Without further ado, I give the floor to Mr. DeRico Symonds.
You have five minutes. Please go ahead.