Hon. Donald Neil Plett (Leader of the Opposition): Government leader, last week during Question Period with Minister Miller, my colleague Senator Housakos and I asked a simple question, not once, not twice, but three times, and yet the minister helplessly tried to finesse his way out of answering the question. I do not believe he fooled anyone present with his bizarre attempt to portray that he didn’t understand the question posed to him three times.

On June 21, 2021, the United Nations Declaration on the Rights of Indigenous Peoples Act received Royal Assent, leader. That law was put forward by the Trudeau government as an important commitment. When it was debated in the chamber, many here will remember that I raised concerns about the legislation. Nevertheless, UNDRIP became law. It incorporates a constitutional duty to consult Indigenous people when considering measures that might potentially adversely impact established Aboriginal or treaty rights.

Senator Gold, did your government consult the Aboriginal Peoples Television Network before introducing Bill C-11?

Senator Plett: If you check the record, I think the minister said that information may be available. He didn’t promise to make it available. I’m asking that it be made available.

Those unserious answers and empty promises are putting into question the authenticity and genuineness of the Trudeau government. It’s no wonder that Canadians are losing hope.

Senator Gold, will you commit to providing a detailed list of Indigenous organizations that your government consulted with before Bill C-11 was tabled? May I remind you, Senator Gold, that this is a bill that you want passed? We need answers. The Indigenous communities have not been consulted. If they have been, before this bill becomes law and before we are asked to vote on it, will you provide us with a list of the Indigenous organizations that were consulted as per UNDRIP?