Honourable senators, I seek leave of the Senate that motion No. 520 on the Notice Paper be brought forward and called now and, if leave is granted, I move the motion that would allow the committee to meet during the summer, as well as table the following three reports with the Clerk of the Senate: The final report on the human rights of federally sentenced persons, an interim report on coerced and forced sterilization of persons in Canada, and an interim report on the Passenger Protect Program.

Is leave granted, honourable senators?

I hear a no. I’m sorry, Senator Bernard. Leave is not granted.

Can I give an explanation as to why I’m asking for leave?

You can, Senator Bernard, if you want to. I heard a number of noes, but if you want to give a quick explanation, please do.

Honourable senators, the final report on federally sentenced persons is over 200 pages as it covers evidence from over two years of collecting information. The committee received testimony from 155 witnesses, held 30 public meetings, including public meetings in all regions of Canada, and conducted 30 site visits to federal institutions, healing lodges, community-based facilities and two provincial mental health institutions.

Members from all parties were present for site visits, for testimony and contributed to this substantial report. The committee has considered the draft report and needs more time to complete this important work, including the preparation of a report with images and tables and a communications strategy.

The short study on coerced and forced sterilization of persons in Canada was intended as a scoping study to examine this as one of the human rights violations currently faced by Indigenous women. The scope was conducted with the objective of recommending a further study. The committee held three hearings with 14 witnesses and has reviewed the draft report.

Finally, honourable senators, the draft interim report on the Passenger Protect Program remains to be considered by the committee. The committee conducted a short-term study on the impact of the provisions of the Passenger Protect Program and possible solutions to minimize the number of false positives. The committee held two meetings with 11 witnesses.

Thank you for your comments, Senator Bernard.

I will ask again. I’m sorry, Senator Plett, there is really no need for debate. I’m being very lenient by allowing Senator Bernard to explain.

I’m going to ask again. Is leave granted, honourable senators.

I hear a no. I’m sorry, Senator Bernard, but leave is not granted.