Thank you, Mr. Chairman. The issue of reviewing the budget and the programs and where issues are heading I think is crucial. In our system, we have assigned Members of the Assembly to committees because it helps Members to specialize and to become more aware. For instance, on social programs. Members of the Social Programs Committee have become more aware of social issues and have spent more time examining what alternatives and options might be. Other Members have sought membership on the Governance and Economic Development Committee, perhaps because their interests lie in a different area, with a focus on economic development or a focus on monetary issues.
It seems to me a little backwards to have this under the wings of a department that does not therefore come automatically for examination before the Social Programs Committee.
I have to say that I have not been persuaded by the Minister on his argument that it best resides in the Executive. I think we have to look for some way to make sure that in fact, there is some relationship set up with the Members who are on the Social Programs Committee, rather than just on GED. I think otherwise, you are missing some potentially valuable input. Thank you, Mr. Chairman.