I think that's unfortunate. This is the second time.
The motion concerns the study on the economic situation of official language minority communities. This is a major issue in Yukon. It's true that some local witnesses have appeared before the committee and that we cannot visit all the places we are invited to. However, this is the only region whose community situation has never been covered in a report tabled in the House of Commons.
When we travelled across the country—from Moncton to Vancouver—all the provincial communities appreciated our presence. When we went to Whitehorse, in Yukon, and to Yellowknife, the community was really appreciative. Those people are still waiting for the report to be published.
There may be another way to produce a report. That may even be possible with the new committee composition. Despite the time that has gone by, we still have the same analyst on the committee. She has all the information. If you are concerned about the report, she could perhaps show you what has been done on the ground to restore your confidence. This is not a report that criticizes the government, but rather a backgrounder on the trip made by the committee's former members.
During this study on the state of economic development, we heard some wonderful things, but it would be a good idea to go out into the communities.
It would be unfortunate if the government voted against this motion. Perhaps it could consider the report again. We spent over $100,000 on our visit to this region, and its people have the right to see their situation reflected in a House report. That was the reason for the trip. If the decision is based on the fact that most of the committee members are new, the solution is to go back to the region.
This motion is for a study on the economic situation of official language minority communities. If you refuse it, we could try again later by moving another motion for a comprehensive study, be it on education or other considerations.
That being said, I would appreciate it if the government would support this motion. We are talking about a remote region. Life is not easy for people living there. They work hard, as they said during their testimony. It would be a good idea to visit those people where they live.
I will definitely vote in favour of the motion, as this is an NDP initiative we truly believe in. We must treat all Canadians equally. We cannot ignore the great north. The people who live up there often feel ignored, as if they did not exist, and that's not right. We should visit them out of respect, and our trip would also contribute something to the House and the government. This would help show that the Standing Committee on Official Languages does not concern itself with only one part of the country, but with the country as a whole.
Thank you, Mr. Chair.