Madam Chair, on that point of order, I would encourage all members to stay and hear my response on points of order.
The issue I am raising is of tremendous importance to the House. The timing of this item being referred to the House is directly dictated by the government. First, the government sets the agenda of the House. Second, this was the first available opportunity that I had to rise following the tabling of the report by the committee chair, which contained the report back from him that these witnesses had failed to appear.
With respect to the importance of this versus the importance of the item the member wishes to debate, this item deals with an order of the House passed by a majority of members that ordered witnesses to appear. It was not complied with.
I will continue, with the Chair's permission, to make the case as to why it is an affront to parliamentary democracy when an order of the House is defied. I have not been repetitive in what I have offered. I have not deviated from the subject at hand. As I have said, I raised this at the first available opportunity and did notify you, Madam Speaker, at least one hour prior to my rising on this point. I appreciate your consideration.