Thank you.
The questions touch on a number of things. I don't see myself as being appointed for a very short period of time or to try to bring about quick fixes. I intend to be the commissioner of the RCMP for a good long while.
I have asked Deputy Commissioner Bill Sweeney to come to Ottawa. We did that initially, saying it would be for eight months, and we have decided to make it an ongoing role. Certainly the fact that I don't have a background or training as a police officer I think means that I don't have some of the experience and skill sets of the 20 men and one woman who preceded me, but I like to believe that I bring other experience that is helpful in my role and to the force.
With respect to my reception, I am very encouraged by the reception I have received. At the beginning, I think you are right, there was some expression of disappointment that someone from inside had not been appointed. But I would say that right from the outset the response has been quite positive. I have often cited communication that went something like, “Even though I was disappointed”--actually, the language was stronger than that: “Even though I thought your appointment was a slap in the face to me as a long-serving member of the RCMP, and an insult to the organization, that decision is behind us and we're here to support you. Welcome to the RCMP.” I felt that was a pretty encouraging message. Since then, the response I get is considerably more positive than that. In fact, I would say nobody has raised this issue with me for the last three months.