Madam Speaker, as I mentioned in my remarks, perhaps the preference might have been to look at amending the old Emergency Measures Act or perhaps look at ways in which we could insert a greater degree of scrutiny within the legislation. My friend is correct. When one is prepared to sacrifice civil liberties on the altar of protection for all, one must be very careful when wielding that sword.
The lack of accountability, transparency and the scrutiny by outside bodies, and I am particularly talking about the courts and a greater degree of accountability in this place, the highest court in the land, give me reason for concern, concern that has been expressed by others. We know that lack of accountability can lead to great corruption. Lack of scrutiny and transparency can lead to some grave injustices.
I believe we have to go through the legislation with a fine-tooth comb to flesh out in detail the practical, solid impact that it will have on areas of civil liberties. I fully expect that my hon. colleague and other members of the House will do just that.
I thank him for his question. This is a very important issue for the House.