Mr. Chairman, in addition to the ideas, we also have to consider how the committee operates. I have a hard time following my colleague Mr. Fast, for whom I have a lot of respect. He thinks that we had systematically filibustered the committee earlier, but that was not the case. Three colleagues, each from different parties, disagreed and shared their speaking time. Each of us spoke for five minutes. You cannot say that speaking for 10 or 15 minutes amounts to filibustering.
Opposition members are now asking you to give them until Wednesday to find common ground. The parliamentary secretary himself has suggested such a timeframe. You have already won support from the Liberals and are in a position to pass the motion. Colleagues are also telling you that if we do not reach an agreement by the start of next Wednesday's meeting, you can set a time limit for debate. It is as simple as that. I checked with the clerk: it can be done on Wednesday. At the start of the meeting, you can table a motion to limit debate to three or four hours, as you wish, with the support of your Liberal colleagues. That would be in order.
I fail to understand why you do not trust people who are reaching out to you. If we were all opposed to you I would understand, but that is not the case. Some colleagues are supporting you and proposing a solution, which you dismissed. The worst thing that can happen today is that we pass a motion to suspend debate. If that were to occur, you would have only yourself to blame. The problem is you do not control the committee. In one way or another, you have to negotiate with your colleagues.
Earlier, Mr. Bélanger talked about the fact that minority governments change. Today, the opposition is reaching out to the government, but it is not taking up the offer. I learn new things every day. Allow me to say that I am thoroughly enjoying myself with you today.