Quebec.

• Position: ASSEMBLEE NATIONALE - Report

At the request of Premier Jean Charest, the President summoned the National Assembly for an extraordinary sitting on October 18, 2010. This sitting, held in compliance with the exceptional procedure provided for in Standing Order 182, focussed on the examination and passage of Bill 115, An Act following upon the court decisions on the language of instruction.

On November 24, 2010, a debate was held on a want of confidence motion moved by the Official Opposition. This motion, which concerned the construction industry, the awarding of public contracts, permits and subsidies, and the financing of political parties, was defeated by a vote of 61 to 57.

In accordance with the parliamentary calendar, the National Assembly adjourned its proceedings on December 10, 2010 and is scheduled to resume on February 8, 2011.

Directive from the Chair

On November 11, 2010, the Official Opposition House Leader, Stephane Bedard notified the President of his intent to rise on a matter of privilege or contempt. In his notice, he alleged that Hydro-Quebec had been in contempt of Parliament by failing to comply with an order of the Assembly adopted on September 29, 2010 in reference to the production of documents. The President heard Members' arguments at a subsequent sitting and took the matter under advisement.

The ruling on this matter was rendered on November 23. President Yvon Vallieres indicated that the terms of the Assembly order are clear. Hydro-Quebec has no other choice but to transmit all of the information requested. However, the concerns expressed by the Crown corporation, particularly regarding trade and security issues, are well founded. Hydro-Quebec is therefore asked to identify the information it considers to be of strategic importance. The Assembly will then determine in what manner Hydro-Quebec's concerns will be taken into consideration. Even if the facts set forth allow us to believe that there is, at first glance, a breach of privilege or contempt, an additional delay is hereby granted. Consequently, Hydro-Quebec was given until December 2, 2010 to transmit to the Assembly all of the documents requested.

Hydro-Quebec did comply with the order given and forwarded the requested documents. Following a meeting with the House leaders of the parliamentary groups and the independent Members, it was agreed that the procedure relating to the complaint of breach of privilege or contempt should be suspended to allow the Members to analyze the...