Thank you, Chair.
I agree with Ms. O'Connell's explanation that generally matters of discipline would fall under both the RCMP and CBSA. During an investigation, it's their own protocols that set out whether the complaint is serious enough that the individual who is the subject of it needs to be suspended with or without pay, pending the outcome of an investigation.
I understand the RCMP's process a little better. It was the CBSA union that had some concerns.
Can CBSA explain to me what's going on inside the organization that these members feel that they want this language in the act? Do they not have recourse now? Is it a clumsy process?
If you have a six-month, eight-month or year-long investigation, they're without pay for that length of time, and they are found to be not guilty, the complaint is withdrawn or it's frivolous and vexatious—whatever the outcome is, if they're found not to be responsible—there should be an automatic reinstatement of their pay, back pay included.
I'm curious to know whether or not they have to go through a very litigious process to get back what they're rightly due. I don't know the answer to it.
Obviously, there has to be something for them to have this concern.