Mr. Speaker, I thank the hon. member for Prince Edward—Hastings for his thoughtful question and for his concern for this issue.
The development of the bill was a direct result of collaboration and partnership with first nations. We are simply responding to a process that was started in 2008, five years ago. The bill is based on the recommendations of the Manitoba chiefs and the Atlantic Policy Congress of First Nations Chiefs, following extensive consultations. This is something that has been led by first nations. They are asking us to pass this portion of the motion and pass it back to committee as soon as possible so that we can get on with the important work of delivering an option for first nations that want more stability, more clarity, and a better election system.