Thank you very much, Mr. Chair, and thank you, Dr. German.
We've lived parallel lives in some respects, although you've had a much more interesting experience in many respects. I started out as a parole officer and you made it to deputy commissioner, so well done.
Your work in policing and criminal law cannot be overstated. It's a real pleasure and honour. I also want to commend you for the fact that you observed Mr. Sauvé's evidence.
One thing we have dealt with at this committee that surprises me is the current role of students within CBSA. I'm not saying this as a partisan issue. I think everybody around the table should at least raise an eyebrow to this idea. Make no mistake, CBSA needs students. It's good for mentoring, and it's good for experience. I started out in corrections as a student, for instance.
I have no issue with that. The problem is that, at any given time—I'm not sure if you're aware of this—up to, I believe, 50% of the staff on the front lines at YVR, Vancouver airport, and other places are students. They are indistinguishable from somebody who's gone through the 20 weeks or whatever it is of training to be a CBSA officer. The student has three weeks, one of which is use of force, so that means there are two weeks of training. This is the principal point of entry for some of the people we are talking about today. I'm at a loss as to why this is permitted. I think it's all about money and staffing.
Could you comment on that, please?