HON. ANNE MCLELLAN, P.C., M.P. Edmonton Centre Dec. 14, 2004 Dear Mrs. Davidson: Thank you for your correspondence dated November 14, 2004 regarding the status of Bill S-18, An Act to Amend the Statistics Act. I support the facilitation of genealogical research by those who wish to exploretheir roots and family histories, and contribute to the understanding of our national heritage. I am also sensitive to the privacy issues that arise with respect to personal records. As you will no doubt appreciate, it is essential that the integrity of the census process be protected. I can tell you that I will give Bill S-18 my careful attention when it reaches the House of Commons, and I will discuss the matter with my caucus colleagues. I am confident that a thorough debate in both the Senate and the House of Commons will result in legislation that best meets the needs of Canadians. I trust that I have been able to address your concerns, and again, I thank you for writing. Yours sincerely, [signature] A. Anne McLellan