I do recognize the seriousness of the issue and I know that it is serious with a number of Members for a variety of reasons. Let me try to not defend it, but to give some clarity. There are close to 6,000 contracts that we give out, I understand Public Works and other departments do on an annual basis. All of our government employees including our government officers who are authorized to award contracts, take an oath of office that they will faithfully and honestly fulfil the duties that they are assigned. In addition, the contract employees authorities must follow the Financial Administration Act, the contract regulations and the applicable government policies and procedures in awarding contracts. Now we have people in the government that have been with us for years that understand that.

If there is a problem here, let me say again today, yesterday I was asked by Mr. Picco about how many waivers have come across my desk, I have to tell you today not a single waiver has come across my desk. I checked that with one of my staff last night. It is important that you understand that because no waiver has come across my desk, to me anyway, it is obvious that there is no dispute in terms of understanding the rules and regulations, the contractual authorities that the people have and the manner in which the civil service applies them to awarding the contracts. I hope that explains it. Thank you.