Procedure and House Affairs

The Procedure and House Affairs committee held its first meeting of the session to elect its chair and vice-chairs. Tim Louis nominated Chris Bittle as chair; Blaine Calkins nominated Michael Cooper as first vice-chair; and Élisabeth Brière nominated Christine Normandin as second vice-chair. All were elected by acclamation.

The committee then proceeded to adopt a series of routine motions moved by Arielle Kayabaga. These covered the delegation of authority to whips to act as a striking committee, the composition of the Subcommittee on Private Members’ Business, the retention of Library of Parliament analysts, the establishment of a Subcommittee on Agenda and Procedure, rules for meetings without quorum, travel procedures, witness opening statements and questioning time, document distribution, working meals, witness expenses, and access to in camera meetings. Christine Normandin moved an addition to the in camera access motion requiring the chair to inform members of any substitutions; after discussion, it was accepted. She also moved a motion affirming the chair’s prerogative to suspend a meeting to maintain health and safety, which was supported.

The committee then turned to committee business. Christine Normandin moved a motion for a study of changes needed in the electoral process and the Canada Elections Act following the 45th general election, with a list of witness categories. Arielle Kayabaga moved an amendment to add “and interpretation” and to narrow the scope to “when casting a ballot,” but after debate she withdrew the narrowing language and agreed to keep the original witness list. The committee did not conclude debate or vote on the motion before the meeting ended. Several members also gave notice of motions for future meetings.