Thank you, Mr. Chairman.
In light of our discussions last week and based on the evidence we've received, we see that it is important to understand that the laws are not translated. They are in their original language, in the language in which they were drafted. It is therefore necessary that translation not be the only way to interpret the laws, whether judges are anglophone or francophone. As the Supreme Court is the court of last resort, it is necessary and important, in our view...
Like all my colleagues, I felt concerned by the remarks of Mr. Michel Doucet, Ms. Louise Aucoin and the Commissioner of Official Languages. That's why I asked that the Standing Committee on Official Languages recommend that the government ensure that the judges that they appoint to the Supreme Court are bilingual, and that the adoption of that motion be reported to the House. I will eventually be introducing a private member's bill to that effect.
Mr. Justice Bastarache will be ending his career in a few weeks. It is important that we send the message that we are fighting for respect for the official languages and that the Supreme Court must represent not only all cultures, but also the values that define our country. We have two official languages: English and French. This motion is not only timely; it also reflects the committee's work.
This motion speaks for itself. I would ask my colleagues to vote accordingly.