Citizenship and Immigration committee  I'd also like to suggest that at least 50% of board members be member lawyers of a bar association of at least 10 years standing.

Citizenship and Immigration committee  We're now talking about the country of origin designation rather than the safe countries of origin. That's one indication and it allows a lot of discretion. The wording as such had to be reformed.

Citizenship and Immigration committee  I simply want to conclude with the humanitarian applications because this is an important point. The one-year ban on humanitarian applications is a concern for the Barreau. The Barreau wishes to recall that humanitarian grounds exist for the purpose of addressing situations not provided for by law.

Citizenship and Immigration committee  Mr. Chairman, ladies and gentlemen, first I want to thank you for your invitation. My name is Catherine Dagenais, and I am a lawyer with the research and legislation service of the Barreau du Québec. The Barreau du Québec has slightly more than 23,000 members. It main mandate is to protect the public.