I would just like to clarify what you said somewhat. I am aware that it was you—I read it in the minutes—with the support of some of your colleagues who took part in the discussion, including, of course, Mr. Stoffer, who insisted I appear before this committee. I greatly appreciate the committee’s invitation. I think you have fulfilled your functions very impressively and I congratulate all of you.
An ombudsman has to have the courage of his convictions. He has to make decisions that are not always popular. In my case, I was appointed during good behaviour. I reported to the Minister. However, there was an opening for the position of Ontario Ombudsman in December 2004. I applied for the position and left my former position. My position as Ombudsman at National Defence was not supposed to end until June 2006. It was a political appointment and, at that time, a different party was in power. Although some generals didn't like me, that did not necessarily mean that their decisions would have had an impact on the new government.
In any case, I just want to say that I agree with you that it's not a popular position. You have to have the courage of your convictions. Recognizing that, you have to be able to provide the structure required for the office to be able to work and succeed, right from the start. You must not pull the rug out from under it.