HAFF Committee Report

Conclusion

After hearing the testimony and examining the information, the general view regarding the submitted proposals is that they should contribute positively to the improved reporting to Parliament.

However some reservations have been expressed about the proposals contained under the theme 3 - Reviewing and Strengthening the Parliamentary Review Process. Some witnesses feel that the proposals do not go far enough and to better engage parliamentarians in the review process, some fundamental change has to occur in the respective relationships between Parliament and the Government.

Some rethinking of committee culture has to occur. Perhaps a new contractual arrangement among all Parliamentarians with regard to the setting of priorities, the allotment of funding and accountability.

Another area of reservation regards the move towards full accrual budgeting and appropriations. Although the general consensus that has emerged is that such a move should be made, the Sub-Committee members feel that Parliamentarians should be provided with the opportunity to provide their input in the consultation process as they are supposed to be the direct beneficiaries of these financial and budgeting reforms.

Overall, we believe the time has come to move forward and complete the process of improving reporting to Parliament.