Senator Housakos: I do take the recommendations very seriously, senator. I wholeheartedly agree that it is an essential element that needs to be looked at carefully. We need to study this in a very robust manner so that we don’t fail a second time when it comes to implementing this legislation, and I do agree that the more you hear from stakeholders the more likely we are to get it right. I will take it to our steering committee and I will take your recommendations; feel free to email me with specific witnesses and ask our steering committee to acquiesce to this demand. I think there is enough time and a willingness to be able to study Bill C-18 and simultaneously look at this important issue before we rise.

Senator D. Patterson: Thank you.

Senator Housakos: Senator Woo, I know you’re more preoccupied with the machinations of leadership in this place. I’m preoccupied with democracy and making sure all stakeholders are heard.

I can assure you, as chair, that all Canadian stakeholders who want to express themselves freely on any side of the debate will have an opportunity to do so. If you feel otherwise and you want to put parameters or leadership wants to put parameters, of course, the committee is at the whim of this chamber.