Senator Gold: Thank you for the question. As I suggested in my response, it is clear that given the magnitude of the fires you describe, Canadians need more resources to respond to these environmental disasters. Again, I will share your suggestion with the government.

[English]

Senator Plett: I did have a question, although between Senator Black and Senator Omidvar, they took care of it.

I wanted to say, for the record, that when we were the government a few years ago in the good old days, former senator Joan Fraser was in opposition. Senator Fraser never let one of these committee trips happen without her asking a question. Her question was usually very similar to what Senator Black’s was. Since you have already answered it, I will just leave it at that, Your Honour. I certainly encourage you and wish you well.

Senator Omidvar: Thank you.

Senator Moncion: My question is about our role in the Senate. Although it has been approved by four different committees, does it necessarily have to be approved by the Senate?

Senator Black: Absolutely.

Senator Black: Having spent only five years in this august chamber, I would expect that the Senate does have the right to not approve of the expense.

Senator Moncion: Agreed; I might not have been clear in my question.

Is there automatic approval? Since it is a travelling expense, does the Senate have the privilege of voting against the report at the end of all this?

Senator Dupuis: What is the reason for this amendment and why are you moving it today?

[English]

Senator Martin: Yes.

Hon. Jane MacAdam, of West St. Peters, Prince Edward Island, introduced between Hon. Marc Gold, P.C., and Hon. Elizabeth Marshall.

Senator Plett: Of course, did both the Subcommittee on Senate Estimates and, subsequently, the Internal Economy Committee approve and endorse this trip?

Hon. Senators: Hear, hear!

Senator Cardozo: Thank you for that. I share your view. This is an important bill, and that $4,000, while a good step, is certainly something we need to be considering. Thank you for your work on this bill.

[Translation]

Senator Black: My understanding is that all reports have to be approved by the Senate.

Senator Black: You are correct. Thank you for the question.

[Translation]

The Hon. the Speaker having informed the Senate that there was a senator without waiting to be introduced:

The following honourable senator was introduced; presented His Majesty’s writ of summons; took the oath prescribed by law, which was administered by the Clerk of the Senate; and was seated:

The Hon. the Speaker: Honourable senators, there have been consultations and there is an agreement to allow a photographer in the Senate Chamber to photograph the introduction of a new senator.

Is it agreed, honourable senators?

The Hon. the Speaker: Honourable senators, I have the honour to inform the Senate that the Clerk of the Senate has received a certificate from the Registrar General of Canada showing that Beverly Jane MacAdam has been summoned to the Senate.

Senator Housakos: Health care —

Senator Gold: Thank you, senator, for raising this issue; I certainly will raise this question, and pass on your considerations and recommendations to the relevant minister.

Senator Gold: Thank you, senator, for raising this issue; I certainly will raise this question, and pass on your considerations and recommendations to the relevant minister.

[Translation]

Senator Black: I would never turn down a question from you.