Mr. Speaker, I am pleased to table a petition concerning mining companies in this House today on behalf of a number of citizens of the riding of Lévis—Bellechasse and Les Etchemins.
Canada is currently a world leader in mining exploration. A Canada-wide consultation was held, in an effort to improve social responsibility.
This petition calls for the creation of an ombudsman's office, which would receive complaints, investigate and propose measures to ensure that Canadian mining companies respect human and environmental rights. It also calls for this ombudsman to be independent.
I would like to congratulate the members of Development and Peace in my riding, who drew up this petition.