mr. goodell, whoever is in charge -- >> i would not presume to interpret the remarks -- >> but you are incharge of this -- >> the conversations -- >> minister blair you are in charge and i'm asking you questions. welcome to committee. >> may i respond? >> mr. blair, was that an official extension of an invitation to the united states to enter into negotiations with yourself to close the loophole on the safe third country agreement? >> i can advise this committee i've had the opportunity to speak both ministers goodell and skin about conversations theyed have had with their counterparts and it might be better if the minister was able to speak for himself. >> i'm asking you, you're in charge now. you're ostensibly in charge. >> it has been communicated those conversations have been taking place with our counterparts in the united states and there is a process and you cannot unilaterally change an international agreement, we certainly can't do it by changing law -- >> mr. blair -- >> it's a conversation. >> mr. chair it is my time. mr. chair. >> and we will continue to undertake. >> minister