Thank you, Mr. Chairman.
I'm going to start by wishing all the women here today a happy Valentine's Day. This is the day of kisses; we'll do that after the meeting. Happy Valentine's Day, Jean-Claude D'Amours.
I don't intend to debate this motion for long. It doesn't have to be debated. A series of witnesses have appeared before us. On a number of occasions, witnesses have said that the subject was not their responsibility. Others have said they could not talk about it since it wasn't their responsibility. The minister appeared before a Senate committee a few days ago. I believe she would like to appear before our committee to outline the position of the Department of Canadian Heritage, which is responsible for official languages. Out of respect, I think we can grant her that. At the same time, we have some questions to ask. I have questions to put to the minister to clarify certain aspects of the action plan and concerning the government's vision for the next action plan, and so on.
That's why I don't see in what way the motion would be negative. I'm certain the government doesn't want to prevent the minister from speaking before the Standing Committee on Official Languages. I'm sure the invitation to have the minister appear will be received with enthusiasm and joy so that we can question her. I have nothing further to say on that point at this time.