Thank you, Madam Chair.
Ministers Ambrose and Valcourt, thank you for participating in our committee's review of Bill S-2. This is a very important bill.
Minister Valcourt, I share your utter incredulity with the fact that this legal gap has existed for 25 years. If my colleague's husband was incredulous, I can't even describe the shock my 15-year-old daughter has that this is the law in Canada. So I'm delighted that you're helping us all to change this.
This legislation is quite unique because it's interacting alongside both provincial and territorial legislation, it has to take into account the first nations law, and the First Nations Land Management Act. Obviously, there are a few first nations that have been proactive and have changed this in their own communities, but the vast majority of first nations are not protected. There remains a legislative gap.
I have a few questions. Either minister, as you wish, can respond.
First of all, I'd like a little bit more information on how Bill S-2 is allowing first nations to enact their own laws on the topic of on-reserve matrimonial property rights. I'd like to add that notwithstanding the comments from the colleague from the Liberal Party, who indicated that shelters are preferable, they really aren't in my view as a mother. I think in the case of a marriage or a family breakup, it's always preferable for the child to stay in the home, regardless of which parent stays with them.
To the other question, could you describe how this bill will apply to first nations, including those that are already under the first nations land management regime and the self-governing first nations?