Briefly, you rightly point out that some current first nations will be excepted from the application of this act. There are those that have concluded self-government agreements and they already have the power to enact laws with regard to matrimonial property. We have canvassed those that they have, and these laws are working perfectly well. They are in line with the rights that other women and other couples in Canada enjoy in case of a marriage breakdown or a death.
As to the ability of first nations to pass these laws, the act is clear about this. But what I think is more important is that the provisions are culturally sensitive. We know that first nations have different customs, different cultures, in regard to their day-to-day lives. They will have the power under the act to propose to their community members a law that is respectful of their customs, of their culture. We think this is an important aspect of this bill.
I share the concerns expressed by the opposition members, and I've also heard from our caucus members that the timeline during which they will be able to pass their own laws is a concern. That's where the centre of excellence comes in. We think they can do an enormous task in helping the first nations develop these laws so they can be in effect as soon as the first nation determine them.
Do you want to add something?