Public Accounts committee  It was launched in 2018, so—

Public Accounts committee  We are in touch with that department. I know that it's actively looking into this. It's looking at the indigenous business directory. Maybe it's reviewing some of the rules. I know that it's quite seized with the question these days.

Public Accounts committee  Thank you. You have to remember that GC Strategies did not pop up out of nowhere. It was qualified under supply arrangements. So it had met certain criteria as to its financial capacity and prior experience. The company did not just pop up suddenly. It had experience and had carried out contracts in the past.

Public Accounts committee  That's an excellent question being raised, but unfortunately, this question would have to be directed to Indigenous Services Canada. They're the ones responsible for establishing the criteria for—I know there's a 51% ownership requirement—making sure that there are economic implications for the communities.

Public Accounts committee  I don't think we have further information to share right now. I would just be careful—

Public Accounts committee  Yes.

Public Accounts committee  No, that's fine. I just wanted to say that we have to be careful not to paint all suppliers with the same brush as these three companies. Some of them are—

Public Accounts committee  I'd say we have three companies that have been under the radar. We have to be careful, because we have legitimate suppliers that truly provide added value to the Government of Canada. I would be careful, before we have all the evidence. Basically, it's systemic. Don't paint all suppliers with the same brush.

Public Accounts committee  I fully agree with the deputy. Ultimately, Canadians wouldn't get the service they deserve from the Canadian government. It would stall the entire machine.

Public Accounts committee  Very good points have been raised. In addition, we want to make sure that we stay away from broad general task descriptions and ensure that the required skill set is not too wide. This is also in response to Auditor General recommendation 1.73, formulated to PSPC, on improving the evaluation requirement.

Public Accounts committee  As to what is said in front of committee, we have to be careful with that so that it does not necessarily.... Can we transpose that and use it? Again I would say that we start with the suspension and the desired effect is accomplished. Basically, the company can no longer secure any government contracts, can no longer do business.

Public Accounts committee  To my knowledge, they're not being paid by PSPC for any contract being done.

Public Accounts committee  There was a call-out done by TBS and it did not indicate that there were any outstanding contracts with them or payments being made.

Public Accounts committee  That is my understanding, and I would be pleased to validate that with the committee.

Public Accounts committee  I'm happy to add very quickly to that. They are currently suspended for 180 days. At the same time, we are seriously looking at termination. Basically, we want to make sure that those decisions are not made lightly. I want to make sure that I receive evidence, eventually, from my colleagues.