Citizenship and Immigration committee  I believe so. I have a passport.

Citizenship and Immigration committee  You're quite right to ask the question.

Citizenship and Immigration committee  Are you certain?

Citizenship and Immigration committee  This is not something that you will find in the documents of the Institute for Canadian Citizenship. We have not had any discussions on the definition of citizenship. I have written a great deal on the subject and my views are stated clearly in my writings.

Citizenship and Immigration committee  I think that could be part of an interesting debate. In Canada, we must always be careful not to debate semantics rather than the fundamental issue. Obviously, the danger of that happening arises each time we debate words. That's a very interesting and very important debate.

Citizenship and Immigration committee  I read about the case. This is where you're entering into an area where—I'm somebody who believes very strongly in justice; I think justice should be done. I am not a lawyer. I read the different arguments, but it sounds as if you're very much on top of arguing the situation regarding that case.

Citizenship and Immigration committee  As I stated at the outset, this is not one of the areas on which the Institute has really focussed. We're in the process of bringing in other programs, for example, the Best Practices program, because some things work extremely well in one community, but are virtually unknown in others.

Citizenship and Immigration committee  No, I haven't read it.

Citizenship and Immigration committee  It would be impossible to argue that acts should not be in compliance with the charter. I would find it impossible to argue that, at any rate. As I said at the beginning, my impression is you're working your way towards a solution. As a citizen, I've always looked at cabinets and thought there were certain jobs that needed a long time in occupancy.

Citizenship and Immigration committee  Absolutely.

Citizenship and Immigration committee  Thank you, Mr. Chairman. It's a great honour to have been invited to appear before your committee. I must say that since I first visited one of these three buildings, at the age of 14 or thereabouts, to attend Question Period, each time I return, I am overwhelmed to find myself at the centre of Canadian democracy.