Mr. Speaker, I have listened to the debate and I think that all members are in general agreement that the legislation is necessary. I am just hoping that the government will take this as a lead to enact some sort of hearings for this legislation.
I have had a number of personal experiences with people reporting abuses. I do not find that even for a member of Parliament there is a satisfactory way to address these issues. Public servants are intimidated by talking to members. Often in a department one public servant will not even meet with a member alone. They want someone else there with them as a witness to protect themselves in case the member makes a complaint. They want their own jobs protected.
I have been a public servant. We have some of the most dedicated, hard working people in the public service of Canada. Unfortunately, the only things ever reported in the news media are the abuses long after they have occurred. I do not think it is fair to the public service to be tarred with the same brush by the perception being created out there by these odd stories.
I would like to encourage the government to proceed with fulfilling its commitment.