The Senate resolved into a Committee of the Whole in order to receive Annette Ryan respecting her nomination to the position of Parliamentary Budget Officer.

Senator Miville-Dechêne: Welcome, Ms. Ryan. As a former ombudsman for Radio-Canada, I am particularly interested in your commitment to not accept a second term as Parliamentary Budget Officer. Could you tell us a bit more about the risks of a second term? I haven’t seen a commitment like yours very often. First of all, let me congratulate you on that. Second, what are the risks for a Parliamentary Budget Officer or any independent officer to accept or seek a second term?

Ms. Ryan: Thank you, senator. I see two risks. First, I see the risk that the PBO might tone down or alter the nature of their analysis in order to seek the favour of the government in power so as to obtain a second term or other benefits. Second, the mere perception of such a dynamic is inherently harmful.

Senator Miville-Dechêne: Should the rule be changed so that another officer cannot be offered a second term?

Ms. Ryan: That’s up to you, but I can tell you that I will not accept a second term.

Senator Miville-Dechêne: Thank you.