Hon. Marty Klyne: Honourable senators, I rise today to acknowledge the important contributions of Madam Fortin and Mr. Plamondon, the two external members of the Standing Committee on Audit and Oversight.

Your Honour, I thank you for recognizing their presence here in the gallery, and I’m pleased to speak to you about the work they do as committee members.

As senators know, the Audit and Oversight Committee was established in October 2020, with a mandate to provide oversight on the Senate’s internal and external audits. At first glance, it may look similar in function and appearance to other standing committees. However, this committee is unique because it includes two external members who are not senators. It’s the first time in the Senate’s history that non-senators have been included as members of a committee, and I’m pleased to tell you that their wealth of knowledge has been a great complement to the work we do as a team.

Madam Fortin and Mr. Plamondon are both highly qualified Chartered Professional Accountants who have accumulated decades of valuable experience during their respective careers, and their input into the committee’s work has been of tremendous benefit to me and my fellow committee members. Their business experience and expertise have helped us shape how the Senate’s audit process should function — a topic that is of interest to everyone in this chamber.

As chair, I have benefited greatly from the knowledge and unique insights that they bring to the table. These two external members add integrity and highly skilled competency to the committee’s work, which is of the utmost importance, and their valued contributions benefit everyone in this chamber.

The Standing Committee on Audit and Oversight plays an important role in protecting the reputation of the Senate of Canada, which is strengthened by the engagements of Madam Fortin and Mr. Plamondon.

On a personal note, I hold them both in high regard, and I look forward to continuing the work we do together. I thank them again for their contributions, and I ask all senators to join me in saluting their service. Thank you.