Thank you, Mr. Chairman.
My motion reads as follows:
Pursuant to Standing Order 108(1), that the Standing Committee on Official Languages invite the Commissioner of Official Languages, Mr. Graham Fraser, followed at a later date by the Hon. Josée Verner, Minister responsible for La Francophonie and Official Languages, to appear before the Standing Committee on Official Languages to discuss the 2007-2008 estimates and Part III of the Report on Plans and Priorities.
Mr. Chairman, the motion was received two weeks ago, and I believe that it is important to discuss it. However, according to the work plan you have just circulated, it has been suggested that during week 22, on May 29, we invite the Official Languages Commissioner. I believe that the Commissioner is currently holding various briefing sessions with ministers. If the motion is adopted, I would suggest that we push up the date to meet with the Commissioner.
I am suggesting that we summon the Commissioner before hearing from the minister so that the Commissioner can provide us with some information. There are certain issues with which he may or may not agree. Hearing from him first will then allow us to ask the minister questions. We would be able to convey to her what opinions the Commissioner holds, and then ask her what she herself thinks of them. If we invited the Commissioner first, followed by the minister, we would receive a more solid opinion.