Mr. Speaker, I think it is fair to say that is an outrageous misquote.
We at Environment Canada are very proud of our scientists. We make them available for many hundreds of interviews every year, and they are available even today in Montreal at the polar conference.
My friend should know that communications management is a widely respected and essential tool of any large organization. Our scientists are free to address questions regarding science. My friend should remember that when it comes to policy issues, ministers speak for the department.