Thank you, Mr. Chairman. The Standing Committee on Government Operations has reviewed Bill 2, Write-off of Debts Act, 1995-96. Committee Members discussed the bill. After considering the detailed information provided on the debts proposed for write-off, Members agreed that there were no major concerns and the bill should be moved into Committee of the Whole for further discussion and action. The total number and amount of debts to be written off is quite small compared to amounts written off in previous years.
This was the first time this committee has reviewed bills relating to forgiveness and write-off. The committee would like to thank the Minister of Finance for providing background information on the purpose of the two bills and the processes and policies which lead to write-off and forgiveness of debts.
Members may take this opportunity in Committee of the Whole to raise any specific questions they may have. Thank you, Mr. Chairman.