Thank you very much, Mr. Chair.
Good morning everyone. Thank you for being here today.
In 2005, we discussed Bill S-3 at length. We had long debates. At the time, I was the Chair of the Standing Committee on Official Languages. Ultimately, Bill S-3 was passed after having gone through all of the steps after several attempts. In my view, that piece of legislation is an important tool for protecting and promoting minority rights.
However, I feel that abolishing the Court Challenges Program, which means communities cannot defend their rights, goes against the philosophy of S-3, a bill that sought to do more for the communities.
Generally speaking, the government's action is incomprehensible, and it is all the more baffling because it runs counter to the development and defence of community rights. I don't know if you share this point of view.
Ms. Routhier-Boudreau, do you wish to reply?