Mr. Chair, that's a great question.
If I was at events, meeting people.... You know, public officials are constantly out there speaking to a lot of people in different capacities. I would say, “Look, as part of the new government, it's important that we attract the best and brightest from across the country. There are a number of opportunities. Go to the website. Look at the opportunities.” These are the kinds of casual conversations you have with people when you meet them or talk to them. That's why I don't recall every specific conversation.
As I said, this was an appointment that took place over five years ago. I made over 100 Governor in Council appointments. I received hundreds of recommendations, probably. If you take, on average, four per appointment, that's over 400 names. I don't recall all of the names. I don't recall all of the conversations.
However, I think people can have confidence in the fact that these individuals had to apply. They had to put their name forward. There was a process to vet them. This process engaged our public sector, and these individuals had to meet certain criteria. I think that's the important take-away, if I may say so, Mr. Chair.