Thank you, Madam, for offering me the opportunity.
The bill contains disciplinary measures for members of the CBSA and RCMP. It seems to me that disciplinary measures for members of the RCMP, even the most severe ones, are still too lenient. You risk creating frustration among the general public. There will be some very good investigations, but weak disciplinary measures imposed on some members will frustrate the public. We know that the RCMP Civilian Review and Complaints Commission investigated certain members several times. That might require some looking into.
Another problem stems from the fact that staff members under investigation still get their salary during the process. Ontario and other jurisdictions have now implemented certain measures, according to which a member cannot receive their salary during an investigation. Indeed, it does not bode well for discipline when a member targeted by severe sanctions during a criminal investigation receives their salary for years at a time. I would therefore propose a measure according to which, if a staff member is found guilty, taxpayers can reclaim the salary, which is often paid out for years. Furthermore, staff members often get retirement benefits. Some measures are therefore required.
It's the issue of special constables, which is currently under debate in Ontario as to whether special constables do or do not fall under the regime and under what measures within that regime. I think that is also something that perhaps might need to be clarified either in law or in regulation.