Thank you, Mr. Chairman. Bill 13, the Forgiveness of Debts Act, 1997-98. The standing Committee on Government Operations had an opportunity to review Bill 13, the Forgiveness of Debts Act, 1997-98, at our meetings on February 22nd and 24th. The committee would like to thank the Minister of Finance and his officials for presenting the bill. As usual we had some good discussions. There were some questions answered and asked. As reprinted, this bill would authorize the government to forgive approximately $62,000 in debts. The committee noted that this is a significantly smaller amount, Mr. Chairman, than has been forgiven in recent years.

Mr. Chairman, committee members may have additional comments or questions on the bill during the review right now in committee of the whole. That is about all I have to say on Bill 13, Forgiveness of Debts Act. This would conclude the report of the Standing Committee on Government Operations on Bill 13, Forgiveness of Debt Act, 1997-98. Thank you, Mr. Chairman.