I think the Member is having difficulty, because I am not getting any answers to some of my questions, Mr. Chairman. I believe that is my right as a Member to ask whatever I want to ask, as long as I am within the rules and guidelines of this House.

Mr. Chairman, the Minister stated that he has faith, and that is probably why traditionally native women have been having difficulty acquiring equality, whether it be within the band council or politically. Ms. Kuptana stated yesterday, that Mary Simon and Ms. Cournoyea were the only women at the table, and that is probably why women were absent in the minds of politicians, and not taken into consideration when this accord was developed.

I would like to ask the Minister what type of assurance does he feel should be given in regard to, particularly, when a band council does not use the not withstanding clause, to override the gender equality rights in the Charter? What assurance can he indicate that, that band council will not use that not withstanding clause, Mr. Chairman? Thank you.