QUESTION PERIOD — Finance
Appearance of Minister Before Committee
February 3, 2026
My question is for the Government Representative in the Senate.
I have been trying to keep a closer eye on any disparities between the Senate and the House of Commons ever since Prime Minister Trudeau refused to allow Senate leaders of the various groups to read the report of the National Security and Intelligence Committee of Parliamentarians regarding foreign interference, even though he let the leaders in the House of Commons read the report.
I noticed this week a notice of meeting for the House of Commons Finance Committee. They have the Minister of Finance and the Deputy Minister booked for two hours on the budget bill, Bill C-15. If asked by the Senate Finance Committee, will the minister also appear before the Senate Finance Committee for two hours rather than the normal one hour? Could you inquire about that?
I will certainly inquire about that.
I know Minister Champagne is quite available to come here to the Senate. As a matter of fact, I believe he will be here in the next few weeks. I will raise the question with the minister directly because I am not responsible for his agenda, but I will certainly follow up on your question.
Thank you. I appreciate that.
As you know, the normal appearance is one hour. The House of Commons has been able to double that. I think the same courtesy, if asked for by the Senate Finance Committee, should be extended to the Senate and senators. I look forward to hearing what you find out.
I understand that the Senate Finance Committee is willing to have a conversation with the minister for two hours. I will provide you with the answer as to whether that is possible as soon as I raise the question with him.
