Madam Speaker, we are unable to change any agreement, although we may be able to understand its implications. That is the main problem, the issue. Treaties are quite lengthy. Last week, when we were debating Bill C‑228, some members said that it would be hard work. Sorry, but that is our job.
International agreements may be complicated and complex, but they have a profound impact on the day-to-day lives of our constituents. I find it scandalous that we are voting on only a few sections of an implementation bill that is rarely more than 15 pages long, while agreements sometimes contain 1,500 pages and 5,000-page annexes. That is where the crux of the matter lies.
At the very least, we should be consulted early on to establish mandates. We might be less particular when it comes time to study the final version if we had been consulted before the negotiators were sent out. Before they even get on a plane, we could tell them what we want and what we do not want.