Hon. Senators: Yes.

Senator Plett: No. 

Some Hon. Senators: Dispense.

The Hon. the Speaker pro tempore: Those opposed to the motion and who are in the Senate Chamber, please say “nay.”

The Hon. the Speaker pro tempore: Is there an agreement on a bell?

An Hon. Senator: Do it, Don.

Senator LaBoucane-Benson: Yes.

Some Hon. Senators: Suspend.

Senator LaBoucane-Benson: Would the honourable senator take another question?

Senator Plett: Only to answer that question.

The Hon. the Speaker: Is leave granted to answer the question?

Senator Tannas: Absolutely.

Hon. Marc Gold (Government Representative in the Senate): Senator Tannas, would you take a question?

The Hon. the Speaker: Honourable senators, before calling upon the next senator, I should point out that we are debating Motion No. 42, the substance of which is whether or not there should be a pre-study of Bill C-11, not the substance of Bill C-11. We have a fair amount of leeway when it comes to speeches and questions and answers, but, please, we’re debating Motion No. 42.

(2040)

Senator Simons: Thank you very much, my friend. Yes, of course, I’m well aware of the excellent work that the Standing Senate Committee on Aboriginal Peoples did. Was it both the languages bill and the child welfare bill?

Senator Simons: Of course, I would.

Senator Simons: With pleasure.

The Hon. the Speaker: Senator Simons, I’m sorry, but before you answer, your time is expired. Are you asking for five minutes to respond?

Senator Simons: I very much hope it’s us.