Part VIII gives him these responsibilities. I have discussed these recommendations with him since his appearance. I also had a discussion with Ms. Doré, the Head of Human Resources, who also appeared before you. The fact that the presentation on the new restructuring no longer mention official languages was somewhat of concern to us. However, we were assured that it was just a technical error. Needless to say this did not encourage me to withdraw the recommendation that he fully assume his responsibilities.
As I have already stated before you, there are advantages and disadvantages to these transfers of responsibility to Treasury Board. A transfer always means there will be some instability, but one must recognize that the fact that these responsibilities have been strengthened by placing them under a central organization does present some advantages. People are quicker to answer telephone calls coming from a central organization rather than one coming from an organization at the same level as they are. This issue of “horizontality” is dealt with in greater detail in last year's annual report. We continue to raise the issue.
I'll ask Ms. Tremblay to give you more details on part VIII.