Senator Kutcher: Certainly, Your Honour, if that would please the chamber.

The Hon. the Speaker: I’m sorry, Senator Kutcher, but your time has expired. Are you asking for more time?

The Hon. the Speaker: Senator Plett, did you want to ask a question? There are 40 seconds left. In order to have time to answer, Senator Kutcher would have to ask for five minutes.

Are you asking for five minutes to answer questions, Senator Kutcher?

Senator Kutcher: Thank you very much for that important question, Senator Plett.

I understand that the legislation is not focused on closing zoos. You’re absolutely correct about that. You may want to make an amendment to it — thinking about it.

It is, however, focused on the protection of animals held in captivity and ensuring their well-being.

First of all, the bill will phase-out harmful practices. Second, it will encourage responsible relocations of animals. They won’t die in place. There are opportunities for responsible relocations. In my understanding, some zoos have already identified that they would be willing to take these relocations. Therefore, it’s an important consideration, but I think it’s one that zoos have thought about in preparation for this. It’s a good point that you make.

The bill also provides a mechanism of enforcement that will, over time, protect animals. I think that’s a good thing, and I think you would agree with me that’s a good thing as well.

The Hon. the Speaker: Senator Plett, did you want to ask a question? There are 40 seconds left. In order to have time to answer, Senator Kutcher would have to ask for five minutes.

Are you asking for five minutes to answer questions, Senator Kutcher?

The Hon. the Speaker: I’m sorry, Senator Kutcher, but your time has expired. Are you asking for more time?