Indigenous and Northern Affairs committee  Thank you for the question. In terms of who determines credibility, again, obviously for applications for registration, it is my area, so through policy we would definitely define it based upon existing case law and definitions.

Indigenous and Northern Affairs committee  Well, I don't have an answer at the moment, but I take into consideration all the evidence I have when I consider an application. My decision is based on a balance of probabilities whereby a reasonable person can believe that someone is eligible for registration or not.

Indigenous and Northern Affairs committee  For now, yes.

Indigenous and Northern Affairs committee  If I understand your question, Mr. Saganash, I would say that DNA testing is indeed a credible source if the institution performing it is accredited, and we can guarantee— the chain of custody to make sure that the person who provided a sample is really the right person. The affidavits or testimonies of community elders are also considered credible evidence.

Indigenous and Northern Affairs committee  I won't confirm they would receive status, because again, it depends on all of the information submitted. But I will say, in regard to anyone who will apply, for example, or who may be affected by any of the proposed amendments under this bill, they can reapply, and either they will be determined to be eligible for entitlement and therefore be registered, or they will be eligible for a category amendment.

Indigenous and Northern Affairs committee  Yes. The chain of custody in an accredited institution for the individual who is seeking to have their DNA to confirm, for example—

Indigenous and Northern Affairs committee  That's right. The individual shows up personally, their identity is confirmed through various pieces that are submitted at the accredited institution, and there the swab is taken by a professional who has confirmed their identity. Then it's sealed.

Indigenous and Northern Affairs committee  In regard to the processing of new applications that would be coming in under Bill S-3, there has been money set aside to establish a unit, and we're currently staffing it. The unit will be composed of 54 individuals to do intake and to assess applications, so if the bill receives royal assent, we will be starting to process applications that are already in the queue.

Indigenous and Northern Affairs committee  Yes, the 54 individuals are specifically for the purpose of applications that will be received under Bill S-3.