Thank you, Mr. Chairman, for inviting me to appear before you today.
As the members all know, I was one of you, so to speak, for many years. I sat in the cabinet for seven and a half years, including a period of approximately four and a half months as Minister of Public Works, specifically between January 15, 2002, and the end of May. In all probability it is because I was there during this short period of time that you want me to testify today. I am pleased to be here and answer your questions, to the extent that I am able, about an event that took place more than six years ago. In my case, this did not take place, because nothing happened during the period when I was in this position.