I know that Mr. Côté had a difference of opinion, but I can't stress enough my belief that the ombudsman should have as much independence as possible. One of the recommendations that I'll be looking for--I'm not married to this; I just throw it out there. I'd love to have a consensus from this committee so we can have a unanimous recommendation go to the minister. And I will do everything I can to achieve that, working with my colleagues here. The only real thing I would look for is that the ombudsman report to Parliament like the Auditor General does. And I'm not married to that. If there are contrary views, I'd like to hear from my colleagues--not now, but later on--because I just think that way it eliminates any discretionary political nonsense that may occur because of it.
I understand Mr. Côté said that it's an opportunity for the ombudsman to work with the minister in order to achieve this.
And on the hiring practice, Michel, you have to help me again. Who actually hired Mr. Marin and Monsieur Côté? Was that by order in council?