I call this meeting to order.
Welcome to meeting number 112 of the House of Commons Standing Committee on Public Safety and National Security.
Pursuant to the order of reference referred to the committee on Wednesday, May 29, 2024, and the motion adopted by the committee on Monday, May 27, 2024, the committee resumes its study of Bill C-70, an act respecting countering foreign interference.
Before we begin, I would like to ask all members and other in-person participants to consult the cards on the table for guidelines to prevent audio feedback incidents.
Please take note of the following preventative measures in place to protect the health and safety of all participants, including the interpreters in particular. Only use a black, approved earpiece. The former grey earpieces must no longer be used. Keep your earpiece away from all microphones at all times. When you're not using your earpiece, place it face down on the sticker placed on the table for this purpose. Thank you all for your co-operation.
Today's meeting is taking place in a hybrid format. I would like to make a few comments for the benefit of members and witnesses.
Please wait until I recognize you by name before speaking. I will remind you that all comments should be addressed through the chair.
I have specific comments to make on Bill C-70. I would like to remind members that amendments to Bill C-70 must be submitted to the clerk of the committee by 4 p.m., eastern standard time, on Friday, June 7, 2024. It is important for members to note that, pursuant to the order adopted by the House on May 30, the 4 p.m. deadline to submit amendments is firm. This means that any amendments submitted to the clerk after the deadline and any amendments moved from the floor during clause-by-clause consideration of the bill will not be considered by the committee.
I will also note, for all members of the committee, that the charter statement on Bill C-70 has been distributed, and you should find it in your inboxes.
I'd like to now welcome our witnesses for today.