Public Accounts Committee on June 8th, 2023

[Edward Johnson]

Yes, it's Jesse Thistle, who wrote a very moving book on his rise, From the Ashes, having done prison time and having had a very rough ride through life. He turned himself around, got a B.A. and an M.A., and then was given a Trudeau Foundation scholarship. He has said over and over again that it changed his life. I think Canada has benefited hugely from his experience from all dimensions of his very textured life.

[The Chair, Conservative, John Williamson]

Thank you very much. That is our time.

Mr. Johnson, I do want to thank you.

[Nathalie Sinclair-Desgagné, Bloc, Terrebonne, QC]

On a point of order, Mr. Chair, I'd like to have one specific very important clarification from Mr. Johnson.

Will the tax receipts and bank statements mentioned in your testimony be included in the 160 pages that are to be sent to the committee?

[Edward Johnson]

The receipts are included.

What was the other item you mentioned?

[Nathalie Sinclair-Desgagné, Bloc, Terrebonne, QC]

I'm talking about the bank statements showing the gifts, where they are from, etc.

[Edward Johnson]

The foundation's bank statements are not included, but I could arrange to provide them.

[Nathalie Sinclair-Desgagné, Bloc, Terrebonne, QC]

I would appreciate that. Thank you very much.

[The Chair, Conservative, John Williamson]

Mr. Johnson, I appreciate your coming in today. Thank you. We might see you my way, if you're ever back for one of the meetings with the Atlantic Salmon Federation.

[Edward Johnson]

I expect good returns.

[The Chair, Conservative, John Williamson]

I will suspend this meeting for a few minutes. We're going to go in camera, and we'll take up a few points up there. I know there are flights. We're going to talk about that right off the bat.

Mr. Johnson, thank you very much.

We will clear the room of people who should not be here; otherwise, you're welcome to stay, and we'll start up in about two to three minutes. Thank you.

[Proceedings continue in camera]