Pursuant to notice of February 8, 2021, moved:

That the Standing Senate Committee on Social Affairs, Science and Technology be authorized to examine and report on the government’s response to the COVID-19 pandemic, including the impact of the pandemic on vulnerable groups and the scientific research on COVID-19;

That, in particular, the committee examine the specific effects of the pandemic on Indigenous peoples, racialized communities, and people with disabilities;

That the papers and evidence received and taken and the work accomplished by the committee on this subject during the First Session of the Forty-third Parliament be referred to the committee; and

That the committee submit its final report no later than June 18, 2021.

She said: Honourable senators, this is a fairly straightforward motion that has been on the Notice Paper for some time now, calling on the Senate to authorize the Standing Senate Committee on Social Affairs, Science and Technology to examine and report on the government’s response to the COVID-19 pandemic, including the impact of the pandemic on vulnerable groups and the scientific research on COVID-19.

As you may recall, the Standing Senate Committee on Social Affairs, Science and Technology undertook a preliminary study from May 13 to June 26, 2020. This motion seeks your support for the committee to continue and complete that study.