Public Safety Committee on June 2nd, 2023

[Vincent Desbiens]

Yes, the commission should definitely have people with experience in organizations that work with refugee claimants and other vulnerable populations. Lawyers in the field who regularly represent this clientele could also be considered. I think it's essential to understand the reality these people face, what they've experienced. For that reason, the commission needs to have people who understand that reality and have personal experience working with these complainants.

[Peter Julian, NDP, New Westminster—Burnaby, BC]

Mr. Cappe, I'm going to ask you the same question. What type of person should we look for to do the work required of this new commission?

[Prof. Mel Cappe]

I don't have a straightforward answer for you.

I should tell you that I ended my report to the government on this issue by underscoring the importance of the quality of the people they appoint. I don't have a model in mind, but I would say that an indolent, too-relaxed chairman would not be helpful. It could be somebody who takes this seriously or perhaps has a background in law or law enforcement, but not necessarily. A member of the public could do this very well. In any case, I think the quality of the people is hugely important.

[Peter Julian, NDP, New Westminster—Burnaby, BC]

Thank you.

[The Chair, Liberal, Ron McKinnon]

Thank you, Mr. Julian.

Thank you to our witnesses. That wraps up our meeting for the day. We appreciate your time and your expertise. We're looking forward to your briefs, hopefully within the next week, as a matter of practicality.

Thank you, all.

We are now adjourned.