In Mr. Henry's return to a written question, he states "Although a number of northern and southern firms were considered, as Med-Emerg was the only one that was able to obtain the range of expertise required in the time frame, they were the only company asked to submit a proposal."
This is very double-speak and contradictory to each other, Mr. Chairman. As we have just heard, the Minister just stated they did not ask a northern firm to submit proposals. Yet northern firms were considered, according to his letter. But they were not asked to submit a proposal. So if they were considered, obviously they considered they may be capable of performing the job. To me, he is contradicting himself right there.
I would like the Minister to explain to me why northern firms were not telephoned, were not written to, were not consulted period. If he could explain that to me again, please? Thank you.