Mr. Chairman, I just want to begin by saying I take exception to the honourable member's comments accusing me of hiding behind things. In my role as a public servant, I had an obligation to the governments that I served to provide frank, confidential advice. It is not appropriate for me to reveal that advice.
With respect to the specific issue about national security issues and confidentiality, I point out for the record that the Federal Court of Canada determined that a number of the things that were redacted were in fact redacted appropriately.
With respect to the issues that we came to discuss today, Mr. Chairman, I just want to reinforce that I'm very honoured to be Commissioner of the RCMP. The RCMP is made up of thousands of women and men who provide exemplary service to Canadians. There are certainly shortcomings. I would say that there are more than a few weaknesses that we have to address, but even having said that, I would say that there is far more positive than negative about the RCMP. There is far more right about the RCMP than there are areas that need improvement. The areas that need improvement are numerous and they are very significant, and I am committed to do my best to work with the organization, to work with the task force, to work with the minister, to work with the government and parliamentarians to bring those improvements that are necessary and that the RCMP requires and that Canadians also require.
Thank you.