Publications Mail Agreement #40068926 C T but anew visiondocumentin the many oftenantsover theyears, New vision for National Press Building requested after years ofdecline Alvin Fiddler (Ontario) national chief for AFN candidates the seven word: Meet is the Change p.m. (ET). ballot resultsexpectedaround 4 phone onJuly 7, withthefirst Votes willbecastonline orby General Assembly July 6to8. three-day Annual the AFN’s of virtual, takingpartinthemiddle all—gets onevote. of theassembly—634chiefsin of thevotes wins. Eachmember to gainamajorityof60percent each round, andthefirstperson fewest votes isdropped offafter ballots; thecandidate withthe candidates through aseriesof elected from the poolofseven to asecondtermin2018. since 2014, having beenre-elected who hasledthe organization the outgoingPerry Bellegarde, national chiefon July 7toreplace Nations peopleacross Canada. the assembly, andchangeforFirst it’s timeforchange—changewithin Aski Nation (NAN) since2015, BY ALICECHEN BY LAURA RYCKEWAERT NEWS NEWS THIRTY-FIRST,NO. 1836 Resources policy So, who’s running? This year’s event isentirely The national chiefwillbe The AFN willelectanew Grand ChiefoftheNishnawbe once asocialhub, haslost he National PressBuilding, Assembly ofFirst Nations say andidates lookingtoleadthe Continued onpage12 briefing Natural pp. 13-26 Hill Climbersp.30 sees moves bureau research Liberal T Block, theNational PressBuild- St., justacross from the West lery executives say. future, Parliamentary PressGal- works aimstorevitalize itfor the month. as caucuscolleaguesMarilynGladuandConservativeLeaderErinO’Toole reflectedontheLondon,Ont.,attack this then-minister ofstateformulticulturalismTim Uppal, whohassincesaidit‘alienatedMuslimCanadians.’Itcomes her party’s proposedniqabbanamidthe2015electioncampaigntrailwas‘wrong.’Thepolicy’s spokespersonwas Conservative MPMichelleRempelGarner, picturedatleft,appearedtobethefirstwithinherpartypubliclysay NEWS campaign trail, say observers attack, but proof will beon welcome in wake ofLondon rhetoric from Tory MPs Reflections on anti-Muslim strategists andonlookers. line upwithreflective words, say Canadians toevaluate how actions post-parliamentary puddingfor but theproof willbeinthe shows “progress” and“self-growth,” deadly attack onaMuslimfamily past positionsinthewake ofthe BY PALAK MANGAT Located at 150 Wellington cians to publicly account for cians topubliclyaccountfor he attempts by somepoliti-

The HillTimes photographsbyAndrewMeade,andSamGarcia

CANADA’S POLITICS AND GOVERNMENT NEWSPAPER on connectivity Canada cancashin Taylor Scott p.5 leased outtomedia organizations from thenonwards ithasbeen ment tookownership ofitand 1918. In1954, thefederal govern- Building, and was constructedin ing starteditslifeastheNorlite grandmother, TalatAfzaal. The Afzaal, andher74-year-old daughterYumnah15-year-old old partnerMadihaSalman, their Salman Afzaal andhis44-year- killed intheattack; 46-year old of Muslimfaith. Four peoplewere as ahate crime targeted at those street inwhat policearetreating Ont., was mowed down onthe run, afamilyoffive inLondon, In atargetedJune 6hit-and- p. 3 a bustlingmedia hub, in recent and Procurement Canada). Services (now PublicServices Public Works and Government while staying underthecare of attempted murder. degree murder andonecount of charged withfourcountsoffirst- man, 20, who hasalready been charges againstNathaniel Velt - 14 they willpursueterrorism Prosecutors confirmed on June recovering from seriousinjuries. nine, was thelonesurvivor andis couple’s son, Fayez Afzaal, aged However, despiteoncebeing Continued onpage28 North in the health for mental Go further WEDNESDAY, 16,2021$5.00 JUNE A Le Devoirandthegallery itself of itstenants. years ithashemorrhagedmuch NEWS pledge despite G7 advocates, rates, say vaccination boost global moredo to Canada can (Papineau, Que.)haspledged100 offering 500millionvaccines. Biden isspearheadingtheeffortby billion doses. U.S. PresidentJoe group haspledged morethanone Leaders’ SummitinFebruary, the and purchases. SincetheG7Early 870 millionvaccines indosages ber states agreed toofferat least 2022. To reachthegoal, themem- will bevaccinated by theendof he hopestheworld’s population Prime MinisterBorisJohnson said place between June 11and13, U.K. in Cornwall, England, which took increased manufacturing. ditional vaccines andfacilitating vaccine effortby distributingad- should beputontheinternational go farenoughandmorefocus holders say thepledgedoesn’t ple around theworld faster, stake- BY NEIL MOSS Currently onlyjournalistswith Prime MinisterJustin Trudeau Leading uptotheG7summit pledge tohelpvaccinate peo- s CanadasignedontoaG7 p. 4 p. 4 Continued onpage 27 Continued onpage29 Bitchy Bad+ p.10 2 THE HILL TIMES | WEDNESDAY, JUNE 16, 2021

Alice Chen Heard On The Hill

tainly, the media seems to be pushing that Eastern stalwarts Jack Harris, rumour. On the off chance that an election Wayne Easter not running for is held before then, I want to give others MP Dzerowicz’s ample time to consider representing my re-election party in the riding of Malpeque.” On June 11, NDP MP Jack Harris an- First elected in 1993, Mr. Easter has nounced that he will not be offering for served nearly 28 years as an MP, winning re-election in the next Parliament. nine elections and sitting in Jean Chrétien’s In his statement, he noted that he has cabinet as both solicitor general and the min- foray into Reddit been considering the decision for weeks ister responsible for Prince Edward Island. and that he was thankful to the people of In recent years, Mr. Easter has made his his riding for their support over the years. mark as the chair of the influential House Finance Committee and has been a driving Jack Harris force in Canada-U.S. relations as chair of hits a few snags won’t be the Canada-U.S. Inter-Parliamentary Group, running for where he has forged relationships with re-election key U.S. politicians that helped grease the Liberal MP as an wheels during contentious NAFTA renego- Julie Dzerowicz NDP MP. tiations. participated in The Hill Born and raised on a P.E.I. farm, Mr. an open Ask Me Times file Easter began his life in public service as a Anything thread photograph National Farmers Union youth president at on Reddit. The the age of 23. results were mixed. Photograph courtesy of the Canada Day on the Hill to office of Julie remain virtual for second year Dzerowicz in a row “It has been a pleasure to work with all For the second year running, Canada the communities … I am very grateful to Day celebrations will not be happening my wife Ann Martin, who has shared this physically on Parliament Hill. journey with me,” it reads. Instead, in light of the ongoing CO- He’s ending his political career after 25 VID-19 pandemic, reads a June 11 press years. Mr. Harris has sat in four federal Parlia- release, the event will be held virtually, in a ments since 1987 and five general assemblies choice meant to keep Canadians safe. of the Newfoundland and Labrador House of “Canada Day will bring all Canadians Assembly, starting in 1990. He was also the together and allow them to express their leader of the provincial NDP for 14 years. national pride and honour for others in a virtual environment,” it continues. Longtime While the full day’s programming has iberal MP Julie Dzerowicz (Davenport, She was also asked about a now- Liberal MP yet to be released, Canadian Heritage did Ont.) took to popular social media site deleted tweet where it seemed she was L Wayne Easter share the plan for the evening program. Reddit on June 9 to host an AMA, short for mocking a constituent for asking why announced On July 1, at 8 p.m., “the spotlight will Ask Me Anything, wherein random users the government is fighting Indigenous his retirement be on those whose job it is to bring beauty are allowed to ask questions and get hope- residential school survivors in court over in the House to our lives and make our culture shine.” fully cogent answers. compensation. In the tweet, she wrote, on June 14. Titled “Lights on Canada Day,” this However, the internet mob did not go “kindly send me the list of lawsuits of the The Hill Times program will bring together artists and easy on Ms. Dzerowicz. One point of par- fed govt (sic) fighting indigenous rights photograph by artisans in the entertainment industry from ticular note was a tweet that she had sent that you indicate is ‘many.’” Andrew Meade across the country to share and highlight out about the Port of Montreal being on To that she replied she meant to get a the beauty of their work. It will feature strike for 2.5 years, despite the strike hav- more comprehensive sense of the cases people from each province to “share this ing only gone for three days at the point that may be out there. great Canadian stage that will shine across she tweeted it out. Redditors were not particularly pleased, the country,” reads the press release. When asked about this she said that downvoting (meaning expressing their dis- she has an “unbelievable team” and that approval) the response to zero points. And “there are times when I am responding too a particularly upvoted response said “your He leaves behind a significant legacy. quickly and do not read things properly.” constituents deserve He’s covered portfolios from public safety, better than to endure to justice, and most notably, national mocking or incorrect defence. In the latter, he pushed for greater comments only for you support for injured military personnel, the to backtrack and spin it reopening of Veterans Affairs offices across differently later.” the country, and better search and rescue She fared better with services. several questions about In the House, Mr. Harris spearheaded a the affordable hous- motion specifically to institute 30-minute ing problem, pointing response teams in this area, while also towards a need for fighting against the elimination of Canada more funding and basic Post home delivery and against the decision Canada Day 2017 featured a stop on an official income, though com- to delay Old Age Security pensions to 67. tour by Prince Charles, pictured, and Camilla, menters were quick to Previously, Mr. Harris announced he was Duchess of Cornwall. The Hill Times file photograph say that Trudeau has being treated for cancer back in March of promised a lot and 2020, after discovering a lump in his neck. “delivered very little.” Treatment seemed to go well, with what he The two-hour program, to be broadcast She was also accused of said was good progress then, making his on CBC television, ICI Radio-Canada Télé, of spouting the govern- way back to public events just a few months and YouTube, will feature names like Jann ment line. later. His health wasn’t mentioned in his re- Arden, JP Saxe and Major Funk, with She didn’t respond to cent statement. For now, he’ll be continuing hosts Jully Black and Véronic DiCaire. questions about the CRTC what he’s always done, while also planning Commercial breaks will feature a behind- wholesale internet rate to help with the campaign of the next NDP the-scenes tour of the studio and process reversal or the backing candidate in St. John’s East, N.L. for preparing for the event. away from electoral re- Whoever steps in for him will have big The weight of the pandemic doesn’t seem form of the Liberal party. shoes to fill, as will the next federal repre- to be lost on the event organizers either. She concluded her post sentative for Malpeque, P.E.I. “This year, more than ever, Canada Day with a push to pay atten- Liberal MP Wayne Easter rose in the presents an opportunity to show solidarity, tion to her private mem- House on June 14 to announce he would be understanding and resilience. It invites Ca- ber’s bill C-273, looking to retiring as an MP come the next election. nadians to come together from coast to coast enable a national strategy “As Members know, the election is to coast to reflect on our history and culture.” for guaranteed basic in- scheduled for October 2023, but rumours [email protected] come in Canada. abound there may be one before then. Cer- The Hill Times WEDNESDAY, JUNE 16, 2021 | THE HILL TIMES 3

Opinion Canada’s future depends on connectivity

deployed across Canada, 5G will enable Once you cut through the a wave of innovation, create an estimated 250,000 new jobs by 2026 and contribute an rhetoric and focus on the additional $40-billion in GDP over the same period. Achieving these 5G benefits will re- facts, it is clear that the quire an estimated investment of $26-billion only form of competition by facilities-based service providers. Despite the negative impact of COVID-19 that can deliver the on their businesses, Canada’s facilities- based service providers continue to make right balance of network significant capital investments that will serve Canada well. This commitment to growing quality and coverage and enhancing Canada’s digital infrastruc- as well as affordable ture is aided by two recent developments. First, we are seeing unprecedented prices is facilities-based collaboration between governments and facilities-based service providers when it competition. comes to investing in connectivity. By joining WE’RE HERE FOR YOU, CANADA! forces to connect communities that are hard- est to serve, governments and the private Thanks to support from the Government of Canada, Government of Robert sector can close the digital divide faster. Second, the CRTC has issued two long- Saskatchewan, City of Saskatoon, and private donors, the Vaccine Ghiz awaited decisions related to the mobile wireless and fixed broadband markets. and Infectious Disease Organization (VIDO) at the University of While we do not agree with all aspects Saskatchewan is becoming Canada’s Centre for Pandemic Research. Opinion of these decisions, the fact that the deci- sions have been made removes some of This National Centre will ensure Canada is at the forefront of scientific the uncertainty that made the planning of s Canada begins to emerge from the third, long-term investments difficult. Canada is research and vaccine development and will help protect Canada and Aand hopefully last, wave of the COVID-19 already seeing the benefit of this increased the world from emerging infectious diseases like COVID-19. pandemic, there are many lessons that have regulatory stability with some network op- been learned over the past year and half. erators announcing that they will acceler- Together we are building a healthier world. Among these lessons, the pandemic has fos- ate their capital spending to advance fibre, tered a greater appreciation for the fixed and wireless and rural network buildouts. wireless broadband networks that allowed Ca- While critics have reacted to these deci- nadians to stay connected, conduct business, sions with a mix of exaggeration, hypocrisy NOUS SOMMES LÀ POUR VOUS, CANADA! learn remotely, and receive critical services. and, regrettably, personal attacks on decision- That our digital networks were able makers, their insistence that resellers should Grâce au soutien du gouvernement du Canada, du gouvernement de to support an incredible surge in data be given access to facilities-based service consumption and a massive shift to remote providers’ networks at rates that, in some la Saskatchewan, de la ville de Saskatoon et de donateurs privés, la work and learning was no stroke of luck. cases, would be lower than the true cost of It was a result of the CRTC and Canadian building and maintaining these networks, is Vaccine and Infectious Disease Organization (VIDO) de l’Université de la government’s longstanding recognition of entirely self-serving. Such a policy would also Saskatchewan devient le Centre Canadien de Recherche sur les Pandémies. the importance of sustainable competition have devastating impacts for Canada. amongst those companies willing to make For example, by the estimation of TD Se- Ce centre national garantira que le Canada est à l’avant-garde de la the massive investments necessary to curities, had the 2019 wholesale broadband deploy, maintain, and continually upgrade access rates proposed by the CRTC been recherche scientifique et du développement de vaccins et aidera à protéger the physical networks that enable Cana- upheld, the investment capacity of facilities- le Canada et le monde contre les maladies infectieuses émergentes comme dians to connect to the internet. This is based service providers would be reduced referred to as facilities-based competition. by 22 per cent, or more than $1.68-billion, la COVID-19. This preference for facilities-based com- per year. Similarly, PwC estimated that had petition has served Canada well. Facilities- the CRTC granted broad-based wholesale Ensemble, nous construisons un monde plus sain. based service providers of all sizes have access to wireless networks as part of its invested more than $220-billion in building review of the wireless industry, 5G coverage networks while competing for custom- in Canada by 2030 would be reduced from ers and trying to outperform one another 95 per cent to 75 per cent of Canadians, Sincerely/Sincèrement, by offering the highest speeds and most and the Canadian economy would suffer a reliable connections. As a result, despite cumulative loss over this period of at least the immense challenges in building across $57-billion in GDP. Importantly, this gap Canada’s large territory and extreme in investment would not be made up by climate, a vast majority of Canadians have resellers as their business model is based access to digital networks that are consis- on arbitraging access rates while making tently ranked amongst the best performing minimal upfront capital investment. Volker Gerdts and farthest reaching in the world. Once you cut through the rhetoric Facilities-based competition has also re- and focus on the facts, it is clear that the VIDO Director and CEO sulted in lower prices. While the cost of most only form of competition that can deliver other goods and services continues to rise, the right balance of network quality and the three government agencies that track coverage as well as affordable prices is the cost to consumers for mobile wireless facilities-based competition. Those who services have all observed a steady decline discount this balanced approach and argue in prices. For example, the Statistics Canada in favour of one-dimensional policy-mak- Cellular Services Price index has fallen by ing willingly ignore the impact it would almost 20 per cent over the last year. have on Canadians’ access to the internet But there is more work to be done. The and their ability to participate in the digital COVID-19 pandemic has underlined the world. They also ignore the lessons learned imperative of continuing to invest in the during the COVID-19 pandemic. Canada’s expansion of network coverage to reach future depends on connectivity. Canadians who are without access. Invest- Robert Ghiz is president and CEO of ment in 5G, the next generation of wireless the Canadian Wireless Telecommunica- www.vido.org technology, is also crucial to maintain- tions Association. ing Canada’s competitiveness. If widely The Hill Times 4 THE HILL TIMES | WEDNESDAY, JUNE 16, 2021

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Similarly, Julie Green, the North- Community-centred, west Territories minister of health and social services, said they have a guiding document—called “Mind and Spirit”—and government-to- Indigenous approach needed government approaches used with Indigenous governments. “I would hope that the federal government would pay attention for mental health in the to what we are doing there.” Also important, Ms. Crawford said, is investing early. By putting money into education and early in- North, say territory denizens The North faces dual issues of higher tervention, as well as generally giving need and less access, says CAMH’s people “a good start in life,” protective Allison Crawford. Photograph courtesy factors are created, ameliorating chal- Problems in the region of Allison Crawford lenges that may be faced later in life. ‘It’s not an academic This good start, according to pursuit anymore. These stem from remoteness, said, along with exposure to Ms. Qaqqaq, might stem from historical factors: experts abuse of many kinds. a holistic approach. This means are real stories of real Calling the mental health “If you are not raised in a lov- tackling the basics of Maslow’s situation in the North a crisis, Ms. ing environment and you are not hierarchy of needs, she said. people,’ says Yukon Atwin pointed to the remote loca- exposed to loving parenting, the Premier Sandy Silver, tion as one factor. only parent you have is residen- “Think about inadequate tial school. What you’re going to who notes the current housing, you think about poverty, do is treat your children kind of because there’s a lot less job op- in a way that you were treated.” per-capita approach portunities, less job recruitment, Ms. Atwin and Mr. Silver both affordable housing, food insecuri- said that one way the federal gov- ‘does not work,’ and ty … all of those things contribute ernment can address the problem to in general a lower health index, is to increase the health transfer makes them ‘scramble a lower life expectancy,” she said. to the territories. There’s also issues with a lack Another focus, according to Kate to do more with less.’ Community organizations should of counsellors who can be seen on White, NDP leader in the Yukon, is be a focus of funding for the a regular basis, Ms. Qaqqaq said, on just making services available. BY ALICE CHEN NDP MP Mumilaaq Qaqqaq says government, says Tiffanie Tasane, and many of those that are there “We can do all we want to des- she's disappointed with government executive director of CMHA Yukon. don’t speak the appropriate Indig- tigmatize saying that you need help, lthough the recent federal efforts in the area of mental health Photograph courtesy of Tiffanie Tasane enous languages. Overcrowding, but until we make sure that help is budget included some new in the North and pointed to the need A meanwhile, leads to people being available, then we’re doing our- provisions for mental health in for a holistic approach, encompassing stuck inside with their abusers selves a disservice,” she said, specifi- It could include then, she ex- Canada, it fell short in addressing housing and basic necessities as a and learning unhealthy ways of cally pointing towards funding for plained, having a safe place to live, the pressing needs in the North, good area of focus. The Hill Times being, she said. longer clinic hours and analysis of having access to clean water, and to says Nunavut’s representative in photograph by Andrew Meade The remoteness, Yukon what the needs in the area are. the resources needed to feed them- the House of Commons. Premier Sandy Silver said, This sort of insider knowl- selves and their family, all of which NDP MP Mumilaaq Qaqqaq “It’s pretty hard for anyone also means its tough to provide edge is most accessible through should be done before even starting (Nunavut) said she’s less pleased not to have known someone that services with the poor infrastruc- community organizations, said to talk about mental health. with broader efforts outside of the had a mental health issue at some ture and difficulty travelling, so Tiffanie Tasane, executive director And talking about it is important. “bare minimum” of government time in their life,” he said. the current per-capita approach of the Canadian Mental Health “We want to do whatever we can apologies. Budget announcements have “does not work,” and makes them Association, Yukon. to help people to reach that goal of “They keep patting themselves been made to redress these mental “scramble to do more with less.” “They are more connected to mental wellness, to address their on the back for things that are health inequities, most notably, This is coupled with a higher the people … that’s where they’re historic trauma, to put them in a po- historic that are really not worth the Mental Health Commission need for services owing to higher going to go first,” she said. “And the sition of being not just healthy but mentioning,” she said, referring to of Canada said in a press release, mental illness rates and a reduced community resources know the role models and facilitators in their the housing investments—an area the $45-million given to develop access to services, said Allison people, they know what they need, communities,” said Ms. Green. she says is tied to mental health— national mental health standards, Crawford, chief medical officer they know they can identify gaps.” Audibly tearing up, Mr. Silver of $25-million for Nunavut, a targeted funding for groups like for the Canada Suicide Preven- “We can’t have government said the issue affects everyone, sparse quantity compared to the the Indigenous, and the creation of tion Service at the Centre for Ad- services, government programs, especially during a pandemic. $500-million that is needed. a suicide prevention crisis hotline diction and Mental Health. that don’t work collaboratively “It’s not an academic pursuit “[We] would ask for $5 and the and an online web portal for men- “I think there are also strengths with community organizations or anymore. These are real stories of feds gave [us] a quarter.” tal health resources. in those local regions that aren’t First Nations organizations, the real people.” The northern territories gener- Green-turned-Liberal MP being tapped into to promote left hand needs to know what the [email protected] ally rate relatively poorly for Jenica Atwin (Fredericton, N.B.) mental well-being,” she said, refer- right hand is doing.” The Hill Times mental health outcomes. Accord- said she was “pleasantly sur- ring to the potential leadership ing to 2013 data from the Confer- prised,” in an interview with The of Indigenous organizations and ence Board of Canada, they are on Hill Times before she crossed the more cultural ways of healing. the bottom scale of self-reported floor on June 11. ‘A light at the end of the tunnel’: “Mental health services specifi- mental health status, with Nuna- “Housing choices did address cally … have been underfunded or vut clocking in at around 55 per some of the issues that will be part Qaqqaq on why she’s leaving politics there may be long wait lists or may- cent of residents reporting good of this conversation. I do think be they lacked services entirely,” said or excellent mental health, while that we put too much on telemedi- NDP MP Mumilaaq Qaqqaq (Nunavut) announced on Twitter on May 20 she would not be reoff- Karla Thorpe, interim vice-president the Yukon and the Northwest Ter- cine and virtual care and websites ering in the next federal election. of organizational performance and ritories score slightly more than and hotlines—just speaking from public affairs with the Mental Health 65 per cent. Nunavut has a suicide experience, speaking for a local “I’m very happy and relieved to have an end in sight and a light at the end of the tunnel. Be- Commission of Canada. rate that is nearly 10 times the context, that’s not the answer.” cause the federal institution is a very toxic place, it’s not one that’s built for racialized individu- Also relevant, Mr. Bagnell Canadian average. Mr. Bagnell said that three- als,” she told The Hill Times, pointing to how often she would be stopped by security and how said, is the higher rates of alcohol The situation hits close to digit suicide hotline would be a she felt at a disadvantage compared to her colleagues. addiction and the cultural issues home for Ms. Qaqqaq, whose benefit, and easy to access. stemming from a lack of con- hometown of Baker Lake has a “I’m quite happy that the fed- “I took the opportunity to do the best to my ability, show people you can do whatever you set nection to their roots in remote your mind to. But I think that what I came in to do [was to] hopefully start things that have a high rate of suicide. eral government has invested in Indigenous communities. trickle effect.” “We’ve definitely had years that,” he said. This is all compounded by where we’ll have three, four suicides He also pointed to past funding, the issue of intergenerational She said that she’s been selfless her whole life and the for the “first time” she wants to find in less than two months. So a whole like a 2017 budget announcement trauma resulting from a history of what she truly enjoys and brings her passion. If she had had a right to self-determination, she community now goes through the of $5-billion nationwide to improve colonization, said Josephine Tan, would’ve pursued fashion or design of interior decorating, she said. situation of losing someone over mental health service access and psychology professor at Lake- and over again,” she said. 2018 bilateral provincial and territo- head University. “I’m definitely going to back to what brought me excitement when I was a child or in my early Liberal MP Larry Bagnell rial agreements that doled out more Starting from the residential teens … What do I want to do? What brings me happiness.” (Yukon) said that everyone knows money for mental health and addic- schools and the Sixties Scoop, someone who has struggled with tion services as “huge investments” — by Alice Chen their culture was torn apart, she mental health issues. that are just starting to roll out. WEDNESDAY, JUNE 16, 2021 | THE HILL TIMES 5

Comment

Memo reveals Iraq prophecy come to fruition

sent to train. The Canadian trainers were also told When asked by journalists how Cana- Scott That incident occurred back in Septem- that in the future, they should abstain dians could properly vet the Iraqi recruits, ber 2018, and, according to the internal from watching such videos, and for God’s Fortin confidently replied, “I think we have Taylor report, the Canadian trainers immediately sake, not to take possession of any such a pretty good vetting process in place to informed their superiors of these war evidence. screen out those potential [Iraqi] instruc- crimes and requested guidance on how to When the mission concluded without tors to ensure we have quality people, that Inside Defence proceed. the Canadian trainers having seen any they the Iraqi government feel confident At least seven Canadian non-commis- action taken against the Iraqi perpetrators, with.” sioned officers had viewed the videos. As the NCOs continued to ask questions to One month later, our trainers on the n June 9, the Canadian Press reported professional soldiers, they realized that the their senior leadership after their return to ground in Iraq viewed the video evidence of Oon a memo which they had obtained acts committed by their Iraqi recruits vio- CFB Petawawa in Ontario. war crimes and reported it up their chain of from the Department of National Defence lated Article 50 of the Geneva Convention, One of the Canadian witnesses wrote to command. From this latest memo released under the Access-to-Information law. which prohibits acts of “willful killing, tor- his superior “we remain uncertain whether to the Canadian Press news service, we now The memo was dated Jan. 16, 2020, and ture, or inhuman treatment” of prisoners. this appropriate action was effectively taken. know that more than one year after the top was written by Lieutenant-General Mike Included in the eagerly offered video I am an ethical man and I believe in our mor- brass knew that our troops were training Rouleau, who was the commander of Cana- evidence was footage of Iraqis “raping a al doctrine and the [Law of Armed Conflict]. war criminals, they still lacked the ability to dian Joint Operations Command at that time. woman to death; torture and execution of a I am bothered by the fact that my assigned properly screen any incoming Iraqi recruits. The recipient of the memo was then-chief of line of bound prisoners whereby they were duties allowed me to train and enable people On Sept. 5, 2018, I wrote a column the defence staff General Jonathan Vance. beaten to death with what appeared to be who in my mind were criminals.” about the then-impending training mis- The gist of Rouleau’s message to Vance rebar steel bars; the execution of prisoners More than three years later, and after sion entitled “Clueless in Iraq.” I included a was that the “identifying and vetting” of by shooting; and the execution of a man the Ottawa Citizen broke the story cit- side note to Maj.-Gen. Fortin, which read: Iraqi recruits to participate in the Cana- by hanging him from the barrel of a [Main ing 2018 DND briefing notes, we are told “I cannot wish you success in your mis- dian-led NATO training mission in Iraq Battle Tank],” according to a Canadian that the military police are conducting an sion because you are embarked on a fool’s “lacked the sufficient depth required.” Forces briefing note. investigation into the CAF’s leadership’s errand. Training more Iraqis to kill in the Taken in isolation, this warning from Understandably the Canadian NCOs handling of this incident. Note that no one name of a corrupt regime is insane.” Rouleau may seem at first glance to be had some serious qualms about teaching seems willing to pursue the original Iraqi Little did I know that our soldiers would rather innocuous. However, it is important such sadistic killers in order to provide war criminals. be knowingly training war criminals how to note the timeline here. them with enhanced military skills. Also important to the timeline of events to better kill in the name of a corrupt In May, David Pugliese at the Ot- Faced with this dilemma, the senior are the statements made in August 2018 regime. tawa Citizen broke the story of Canadian leadership in-theatre assured the NCOs by Major-General Dany Fortin. He had just Fool’s errand indeed. military trainers in Iraq having witnessed that this matter would be dealt with, but in been appointed to command the overall Scott Taylor is the editor and publisher video evidence of war crimes committed the meantime, training of these war crimi- Canadian-led NATO training mission in of Esprit de Corps magazine. by the very Iraqi soldiers whom they were nals was to continue unabated. Iraq. The Hill Times 6 THE HILL TIMES | WEDNESDAY, JUNE 16, 2021

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or relate to an ongoing crimi- nal investigation, be protected. Providing unredacted documents to NSICOP is the appropriate and reasonable approach,” he said, noting it was created by “an act of Parliament by Parliamentarians.” Mr. Gerretsen said the Public Health Agency of Canada has provided copies of the unre- dacted documents to NSICOP and informed the House of Commons law clerk on June 4. The current question of privilege has similarities to the decision made by then-Speaker Peter Milliken in 2010 during the Afghan detainee issue. Mr. Mil- liken ruled that the House has the right to order unredacted docu- ments from the government. Mr. Gerretsen said the gov- ernment’s solution to have the documents reviewed by NSICOP is a similar resolution to what Mr. Milliken requested. At the time, House Speaker Anthony Rota is currently reviewing Conservative House Leader Gérard Deltell's question of privilege over the government's refusal to abide by Mr. Milliken requested a group of an order of the House to release unredacted documents related to the firing of two scientists from Winnipeg's National Microbiology Laboratory. The Hill Times MPs and former justices look over photographs by Andrew Meade and Sam Garcia the documents to see what should be redacted and what should not. Veteran Liberal MP Larry Bag- nell (Yukon) said he has long sup- ported the creation of a committee of Parliamentarians like NSICOP, As Liberals trumpet merits of which was formed in 2018. He said prior to its creation, Parliamentarians didn’t have access to the most serious cases NSICOP, opposition MPs want related to national security. He said with the majority of the committee being composed ‘supremacy of Parliament’ respected of non-government MPs, nothing will be “swept under the rug.” “The problem with having of Ebola and Henipah viruses to the Commons, but a majority vote asking for a seat on NSICOP “for people that have not passed The government the Wuhan Institute of Virology that gave an order to hand over a while.” national security [reviews] is that in March 2019.” The documents documents. “We don’t have any idea of there can always be leaks,” Mr. failed to abide by an were ordered after the passage of He said if the order isn’t when we’ll be appointed to the Bagnell said. “I’m not sure that we order of the House to a Conservative motion on June 2, followed, it will mean that any committee, but at this rate, it should entrust our national secu- which had the support of the Bloc future prime minister can do would be really surprising to have rity to that. In fact, I would think turnover unredacted Québécois, the NDP, the Green whatever they want when facing any news before the summer Members of Parliament might be Party, and two Liberal MPs. an order of the House. break,” spokesperson Julien Cou- one of the groups of people that documents related The Liberal government Bloc Québécois MP Mario lombe-Bonnafous said in an email would be targeted to try [to] infil- maintains that the documents Simard (Jonquière, Que.) told the before the new appointments were trate national security issues.” to the firing of should only be seen by MPs and House on June 7 that MPs need to announced. “As we highlighted it Carleton University professor Senators on the National Security see unredacted documents to per- in the House, we’ve been waiting Philippe Lagassé, an expert on the two scientists at a and Intelligence Committee of form their parliamentary duties. long enough and now need to see Westminster parliamentary sys- Winnipeg lab leading Parliamentarians (NSICOP). But “If we do not have all the the government act.” tem, told The Hill Times last month opposition parties have objected relevant information, it is impos- NDP MP Jack Harris (St. that having NSICOP examine the to a Conservative to the idea because it is under the sible for us to act as the watchdog John’s East, N.L.) told the House documents means that the issue of purview of the executive branch. we are meant to be and properly on June 8 that providing the un- seeing unredacted documents isn’t question of privilege. Mr. Deltell told The Hill Times represent our constituents. The redacted documents to NSICOP addressed as NSICOP releases that the main problem is that democratic process is based on is “clearly inadequate” and “quite redacted reports. Prime Minister Justin Trudeau the information we have at our wrong in law and fact.” “It’s not to say that NSICOP BY NEIL MOSS (Papineau, Que.) created a body disposal,” he said. “How can people “The National Security and couldn’t do it, but it may not be of which he is “the owner.” get a sense of the process of Intelligence Committee of Parlia- satisfactory to [MPs] who feel ith the House Speaker de- “We have members there, but deliberation that happens and the mentarians is not a committee of their job of holding the govern- Wliberating on a question of those members can say nothing,” issues we deal with here if they do Parliament and does not report to ment to account isn’t being privilege after the Liberal govern- he said. “I don’t have the right to not have all the information?” Parliament, except by way of filing fulfilled because NSICOP’s job ment refused to turn over ordered ask them questions. They don’t Mr. Simard added that there documents that have been vetted by is not really to hold government documents to the Commons, MPs have the right to give me informa- were no members of the Bloc on the prime minister. This is explicitly to account, it is to oversee the are questioning whether an ex- tion. Based on that: what does that NSICOP. stated in its legislation,” he said. intelligence community,” he said, ecutive branch committee of Par- mean to have those [Parliamentar- “I do not know why it is taking Mr. Harris said the govern- adding that its mandate doesn’t liamentarians is the appropriate ians] there if they cannot speak?” so long for a member of the Bloc ment should “recognize the extend to cabinet as a parliamen- body to review documents that Mr. Deltell said Mr. Trudeau Québécois to be appointed to the supremacy of Parliament” in its tary committee does. may contain sensitive national has the veto on “each and every committee. I do not know whether ability to order documents. Mr. Deltell said a quicker deci- security information. aspect of debate” and “each and this is typical of the Liberals, but, Responding to Mr. Deltell’s sion on the question of privilege Conservative House Leader every aspect of the recommenda- at the very least, it is yet more question of privilege, Liberal MP is better, but added that it is not a Gérard Deltell (Louis-Saint- tions” and “each and every fact.” evidence that this government’s Mark Gerretsen (Kingston and the time frame issue. Laurent, Que.) raised his question “If we find a true, strong, clear track record on transparency Islands, Ont.) told the House on “It’s a very important issue of privilege on June 7 after the breach of national security [in the could be better,” he said. June 14 that NSICOP was created based on the responsibility of parliamentary law clerk notified ordered documents] … we cannot Following Mr. Simard’s com- for the type of situation in question. the House of Commons and the the House that the federal govern- know that. The only one that can ments, Mr. Trudeau announced on “It is critically important respect we all should have to the ment refused to adhere to an or- say that is the prime minister June 15 the appointment of a new that there be an appropriate order of the House,” he said. der of the House to turn over un- himself,” he said. “So this commit- group of MPs to NSICOP, includ- mechanism in place to ensure He said he hopes a decision on the redacted documents concerning tee, as far as I am concerned, is ing Bloc Québécois MP Stéphane information that may be injuri- question is made before the House the firing of two scientists from his personal body.” Bergeron (Montarville, Que.). ous to Canada’s interests, could rises for the summer on June 23. Winnipeg’s National Microbiol- Mr. Deltell said an order of the A Bloc spokesperson told The compromise national security or [email protected] ogy Laboratory and the “transfer House is not a wish or desire of Hill Times that the party has been the privacy rights of Canadians, The Hill Times Protect Nature and Environment like We Protect Our Eyes

anada has a beautiful natural environment and people here have a extraordinarily hard efforts from China. The targets of carbon peak and carbon strong awareness of environmental protection. The Montreal Protocol, neutrality have been added to China’s overall plan for ecological conservation. which aims to protect the ozone layer, was signed in Montreal. The China is now making an action plan and is already taking strong nationwide Chinese side and the Canadian side have a lot in common in environ- actions toward carbon peak. Moreover, China has decided to accept the Kigali Cmental protection. Amendment to the Montreal Protocol and tighten regulations over non-car- Lucid waters and lush mountains are invaluable assets. Ecological advance- bon dioxide emissions. China’s national carbon market will also start trading. ment and conservation have been written into China’s Constitution. China will China is firmly committed to putting multilateralism into action and pro- adhere to a green and low-carbon development path that prioritizes ecological moting a fair and equitable system of global environmental governance for conservation and promote the integration of climate change response and envi- win-win cooperation. China will host the Fifteenth meeting of the Conference ronmental protection into all aspects of economic and social development. In line of the Parties (COP15) to the Convention on Biological Diversity this October with the “Green Olympics” concept, all the Beijing Winter Olympics venues will and looks forward to working with all parties to enhance global governance be powered by 100 percent clean energy —a pioneering effort in the history of on biodiversity. China will support COP26 of the United Nations Framework the Olympics. China has accounted for about a quarter of the global increase in Convention on Climate Change (UNFCCC) in achieving positive outcomes. As green area since 2000, and the Three-North Shelterbelt Forest Program has been of the end of 2020, China had carried out international cooperation and ex- acknowledged as a global ecological economy demonstration zone by the United changes on ecological preservation with over 100 countries, and signed about Nations Environment Programme (UNEP). Home to more than half of global new 150 eco-environmental protection cooperation documents with more than 60 energy vehicles, China is also the largest renewable energy investor in the world. countries, and international and regional organizations. China has also made China has never been absent in tackling global climate change. By the end ecological cooperation a key part of the Belt and Road cooperation. A number of 2019, China’s carbon dioxide emissions per unit of GDP had decreased by of green action initiatives have been launched, covering wide-ranging efforts 48.1 percent compared with that in 2005, equaling a reduction of more than in green infrastructure, green energy, green transport and green finance, to 5 billion tons of carbon dioxide emissions. China has made clear to the world bring enduring benefits to the people of all Belt and Road partner countries. its determination to help deal with climate change on many international oc- How to achieve economic recovery, protect the environment and meet the casions, including the General Debate of the 75th Session of the United Na- challenge of climate change in the post-pandemic era has become a promi- tions General Assembly, the Climate Ambition Summit, as well as the Leaders nent issue of common concern that the international community must face. Summit on Climate. China will strive to peak carbon dioxide emissions before China stands ready to exchange in-depth views with other countries, including 2030 and achieve carbon neutrality before 2060. At the recent Leaders Sum- Canada, on climate change, to discuss ways to tackle this challenge and find a mit on Climate, Chinese President Xi Jinping stressed that China has com- path for man and nature to live in harmony. mitted to moving from carbon peak to carbon neutrality in a much shorter time span than what might take many developed countries, and that requires Cong Peiwu, Ambassador of the People’s Republic of China to Canada

For more information please visit http://ca.china-embassy.org/eng/ 8 THE HILL TIMES | WEDNESDAY, JUNE 16, 2021

Editor Kate Malloy Managing Editor Charelle Evelyn Deputy Editors Peter Mazereeuw, Laura Ryckewaert Assistant Deputy Editor Abbas Rana Digital Editor Samantha Wright Allen Publishers Anne Marie Creskey, Jim Creskey, Leslie Dickson, Ross Dickson Editorial Andrew Morrow General Manager, CFO

Editorial Letters to the Editor

Safety is key: why we should not pursue the new Delayed action not helping put nuclear option to meet climate change goals an end to CAF culture clash e: “Diversity is key: why we should goes bad, the waste will be irretrievable. Rpursue all options to meet climate change In 2017, the Anishinabek First Nation and goals,”(The Hill Times, June 7, p. 27). Iroquois Caucus outlined a management s if it wasn’t already abundantly truth. For this I am sorry,” he said in a While industry insiders like AECL’s Fred model for nuclear waste, with a halt to new Aclear, the country recently got statement. Demarkar spin Natural Resources Minister nuclear. In New Brunswick, the Wolastoq another glimpse into just how tightly The lack of forward-thinking and Seamus O’Regan’s line, “there is no path to First Nation is against SMRs and DGRs. knit the “old boys’ club” of the Canadian judgement for this to happen shouldn’t net zero without nuclear,” Mark Z. Jacobson Perhaps our settler government could let First Armed Forces is. be a surprise at this point, as the seem- out of Stanford University has a peer-re- Nations take the lead? On June 12, the Globe and Mail and ingly weekly revelations, accusations, viewed plan for 139 countries to get to, “80 per New nuclear proponents tell us that in Global News reported that a pair of very and allegations against military leaders cent conversion by 2030 and 100 per cent by “recycling” (monetizing) that waste for SMRs, senior military officials had been out golf- for supposed bad behaviour, kept under 2050” based entirely on wind, water and solar. they are “closing the nuclear fuel cycle.” It is ing, apparently clandestinely, with former wraps for years, can attest. The long- Canada is under attack. The push for new not a cycle, it is a chain that leaves radioac- chief of the defence staff Jonathan Vance. standing theme in subsequent reviews of nuclear is coming from the nuclear weap- tive waste at all stages—mining, processing, The military’s second-in-command, military culture is that it is one in which ons industry. Companies like BWXT, a U.S. transporting, burning, and storage. New Lieutenant-General Mike Rouleau, and those with authority can act with rela- nuclear arms giant that also manufactures nuclear reactors not only add to our radioac- head of the Navy, Vice-Admiral Craig tive impunity, and if you’re in the inner fuel for nuclear reactors, are pandered to by tive waste profile, but magnify the risk by Baines, have both apologized for their circle, you enjoy the benefits that brings. the Canadian Nuclear Safety Commission extracting plutonium. actions, with Lt.-Gen. Rouleau, who was In a statement, NDP women and gen- (CNSC). For no stated reason, the CNSC Some Canadians think the taxpayers’ already on his way out of his role, swift- der equality critic Lindsay Mathyssen changed the licensing period from four to 10 $50.5-million gift to Moltex Energy to extract ly hastening his departure. Vice-Admiral said: “We are seeing a revolving door of years, then granted a licence to the BWXT weapons-usable plutonium from the waste is Baines has taken a leave of absence. senior officials step in and out of leader- plant in Peterborough, Ont., in blatant great, but concerned scientists and officials The retired Gen. Vance is currently ship roles with the Canadian Armed disregard of a fundamental radiation safety told our prime minister it will lead to a new under investigation by the Canadian Forces over the past months. Replacing principle—no exposure should be allowed nuclear arms race. This is something Pierre Forces National Investigation Service these people isn’t enough. It’s clear that without justification (the processing plant is Elliott Trudeau cared about, and banned dur- for allegations of inappropriate behav- there is a total lack of leadership from 25 metres from a Peterborough public school ing his tenure on the Hill. iour, which he has denied. the minister and the prime minister—ul- playground and routinely emits radioactive Perhaps more insidious than Chalk River, The service—the military police— timately, the buck stops with them.” dust into the air). Pinawa, Point Lepreau, and Darlington, are reports directly to the vice-chief of the “Let me be clear with Canadians and While Citizens Against Radioactive the plans to dot the remote north with mini defence staff. maybe particularly Canadian women: Neighbourhoods appeals that licence, can SMRs, ringing in a new era of mining pollu- Lt.-Gen. Rouleau said in a statement there needs to be a real change in we rely on the CNSC to keep us safe when it tion and poisoned watersheds. the outing was made as a check on the culture in the Canadian Armed Forces,” is inundated with a dozen or more proposed Beware our leaders calling new nuclear well-being of a retired CAF member Deputy Prime Minister Chrystia Free- designs for small modular reactors (SMRs)? “clean”: funding dollars in “clean energy” and that nothing about the investigation land said on June 14, stating she was It’s an expensive mess, Ontario’s radioac- portfolios will be stolen from renewables or circumstances surrounding it were “very disappointed and very surprised.” tive waste—particularly the high-level waste we need now, for the expensive, slow, dirty, discussed on the links. So far, only piecemeal actions have on our shorelines. Many research dollars dangerous distraction known as SMRs. “However, I understand how such been taken to address this. Canadians have gone to an estimated $23-billion Deep Oh, Canada, our true north strong and an activity could lead some to perceive are waiting on the government to stop Geological Repository (DGR), which is an free, who will stand on guard for thee? a potential conflict of interest and feigning shock every time the pattern experiment: not one operating DGR for this Sarah Gabrielle Baron controversy, given the current context, repeats itself and to finally act to stop it. kind of waste exists in the world, and when it Manitoulin Island, Ont. but nothing can be further from the The Hill Times Put tax dollars where they’ll actually work, not into nuclear energy: letter writer e: “Diversity is key: why we should pur- ly lower carbon emissions—and in poorer Rsue all options to meet climate change countries, nuclear programs actually tend to goals,”(The Hill Times, June 7, p. 27). associate with relatively higher emissions.” Should we pursue all options, including Fred Dermarkar is disingenuous when nuclear, when we need to lower emissions as he claims that nuclear power is “emissions quickly, as substantially, and as effectively free.” All nuclear power plants emit radioac- as possible? Should we pursue an exorbi- tive gasses routinely, tritium (radioactive tantly costly and entirely experimental tech- hydrogen), and extremely small amounts of nology that cannot deliver quickly, which other radionucleotides. Even if the nuclear has a very heavy carbon cost in the set-up industry doesn’t like the results, the Kikk phase, and which produces waste for which study in Germany established increasing we still, after 70 years, have only the costly rates of leukemia in children the closer they prospect of deep underground storage? were to the nuclear power plants. The University of Sussex Business Let me predict that there will not be School and the ISM International School of “important economic opportunities” in the Management analyzed 123 countries over marketing of SMRs. Who are the buyers? 25 years and concluded that “nuclear energy Let me further predict that this most recent programs … tend not to deliver sufficient “nuclear renaissance will also fizzle and die. carbon emission reductions … to be consid- My tax dollars should be put immediately ered an effective low carbon energy source. into things that actually will work and further The researchers found that countries around research into conservation and sustainability. the world with larger scale national nuclear Dale Dewar attachments to not tend to show significant- Wynyard, Sask.

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Committee. From agriculture to artificial intelligence, Easter has Parliament will be a little lesser of had his hand on things. While he has always been a team player, he wasn’t afraid to offer gentle cri- tiques of his own government on matters of concern. Current P.E.I. a place without Harris and Easter Premier Dennis King recently called Easter “a friend and ally to the next federal election is moving they already pos- our government since 2019,” who Harris and Easter closer to reality. NDP stalwart Jack sessed those genes. has worked collaboratively in the Harris from Newfoundland and Lab- True, Canadian best interest of Prince Edward have demonstrated rador and Prince Edward Island Lib- politics will still have Island. Former Newfoundland and throughout their eral veteran Wayne Easter have both lots of older white Labrador premier Danny Williams been around politics long enough males hanging about would have said the same of Har- careers you can to read the writing on the wall. So, in elected office and we ris. Collaboration: another skill set after both these septuagenarians do most certainly need of both. play a long game in called time on their career this past Outgoing NDP MP Jack Harris, left, and Liberal more diversity. A little Harris and Easter have dem- week, a writ of election seems all but MP Wayne Easter. When a new Parliament lament for these two onstrated throughout their careers politics governed by a certainty. eventually settles in, it will be a little lesser of is not a clarion call to you can play a long game in poli- Harris and Easter deserve to a place without these two characters, writes resist change, rather an tics governed by decency, dignity, decency, dignity, and be, and are, far more than foot- Tim Powers. The Hill Times file photograph and acknowledgement that and commitment to service that commitment to service notes to the “2021 vote” narrative. photograph by Andrew Meade they made a difference. isn’t just about you. They have Each has more than 25 years of Harris served feder- always had cool heads and the that isn’t just about you. elected political service. Each has matic, as opposed to dogmatic, ally and provincially. common touch. While they may be served numerous political lead- and won plaudits for fighting for While never the federal leader of the in their 70s, I am sure they will still ers and had sustained political their home regions. They have New Democrats, he always held top find a way to keep doing things in Tim success. When a new Parliament also not embarrassed the people critic portfolio positions; a recogni- their communities to make a dif- eventually settles in, it will be they have represented and have tion not just of his geography, but ference. Ottawa’s loss is the gain of Powers a little lesser of a place without been guided by their Atlantic also his ability. He was a person Newfoundland and Labrador and these two characters. Canadian wit and wisdom. Canadians, not just Newfoundland- Prince Edward Island. They’ll be While both Harris and Easter God forbid, but “decent” is a ers and Labradorians, could connect home more often, and they deserve are proud partisans, they are also word you might throw around with. He came across as steady that. Thanks, Jack and Wayne, na- Plain Speak a breed of politician that isn’t when you talk about Jack and handed and thoughtful—not some tional politics was better because as common these days. They are Wayne. They are legitimately raving mad person of the left. of you both. TTAWA—When two hardened reasonable, guided by common approachable, aren’t walking talk- Easter has nearly 28 years of Tim Powers is vice-chairman Opolitical veterans announce their sense, and not obsessed with ing-point machines, and appear service as an MP. He was a senior of Summa Strategies and manag- pending retirements, their “intention social media stardom through to have genuine interests beyond cabinet minister under Jean Chré- ing director of Abacus Data. He is not to run in the next election,” you polemic posturing. Yes, they have themselves. Some whiz-bang po- tien, when he was the solicitor a former adviser to Conservative can be pretty sure that the rumoured played the game of politics well, litical marketing guru didn’t have general, and now is the chair of political leaders. late summer or early fall call of but because they have been prag- to make these fellows authentic, the House of Commons Finance The Hill Times

In order for this idea to de- velop credibility, Canadians who The notwithstanding clause has support the Charter will have to speak up. For those who say all articles of the Constitution can be used, I note the power of disal- lowance still exists in the Consti- long passed its best-before date tution. This is Ottawa’s capacity to prevent a provincial bill from standing clause, which offended on the Constitution, worked out ble wrap Bill 96, its new language becoming law. But it has not been Section 33 threatens Trudeau. a deal that included the notwith- legislation, with Section 33. The used since 1943, as it became The clause, which reads in standing clause. The one restraint clause would cover every section obsolete. the even application of part, “Parliament or the legisla- was the clause’s validity was of the bill if it becomes law. In the United States, when new the law, it undermines ture of a province may expressly limited to five years and had to be The clause has once again tak- concepts of law emerge, there is declare … that (an) Act or a provi- renewed. en Ontario Premier Doug Ford’s open debate, and opinions devel- individual rights and sion thereof shall operate not- It came to be known as the fancy. Having come close to using op, sometimes taking into account withstanding a provision included “nuclear option,” to be applied it to limit the number of council the 18th century drafters’ intent. In freedom of expression, in Section 2 or Sections 7 to 15.” in the most extreme of circum- seats in Toronto a few years ago, Canada, many of the people who Section 2 is known as the “fun- stances. When it was invoked in he now wants to extend a limit on were at the constitutional negotia- and it handcuffs the damental freedoms” clause, as it 1988 by the Quebec government third-party advertising from six tions are still alive, and most are encapsulates freedom of expres- of Robert Bourassa in response months to a year. disgusted by the cavalier use of judiciary. sion, religion, thought, peaceful to a Supreme Court judgment Every time Section 33 is used, Section 33. assembly, and association. on bilingual signs, the backlash the Charter is diminished. Bit by We need knowledgeable Sections 7 to 14 take in indi- resulted in the eventual failure bit, cut by cut. Canadians to speak out and urge Andrew vidual legal rights, such as life, of the Meech Lake Accord. Five There may be a way to stop justices to declare Section 33 liberty, and security of the person, years later, in 1993, the Quebec this nonsense. Section 1 of the null and void. It threatens the Caddell while Section 15 prohibits certain government quietly rescinded its Charter “guarantees the rights even application of the law, it forms of discrimination. use. and freedoms set out in it subject undermines individual rights and Taken together, these sections Fast forward to today, and only to such reasonable limits freedom of expression, and it With All are a powerful bulwark against the cavalier invocation of Sec- prescribed by law as can be de- handcuffs the judiciary. It is time Due Respect abuse of power. However, in 1982, tion 33 in Quebec’s “secularism monstrably justified in a free and it was tossed into the dustbin of Alberta premier Peter Lougheed law,” Bill 21, which prevents democratic society.” history. AMOURASKA, QUE.—“An and Manitoba’s Sterling Lyon the wearing of religious attire The clause was meant to Andrew Caddell is retired Kabject failure.” would not sign the new Constitu- (hijabs, turbans, yarmulkes) in allow governments to restrain from Global Affairs Canada, These were the words Pierre tion unless provinces could avail public service jobs. In his recent Charter rights, and is subject to where he was a senior policy ad- Elliott Trudeau used to describe themselves of a “safety valve” decision on the law, the judge a test of proportionality and the viser. He previously worked as an the new Constitution and the to ensure legislatures remained complained he could not touch minimal impairment of rights. adviser to Liberal governments. Charter of Rights and Freedoms, supreme. There was a fear the some of its more discrimina- One could argue the arbitrary use He is a fellow with the Canadian when asked for an assessment by courts would overturn provincial tory aspects, because they were of the notwithstanding clause is Global Affairs Institute and a reporters in November of 1982. legislation and undermine their shielded by the notwithstanding not a “reasonable limit” in a free principal of QIT Canada. He can He did not elaborate, but many authority. clause. and democratic society, and the be reached at pipson52@hotmail. experts speculate it was the inclu- Jean Chrétien, who was justice And as a follow up, the CAQ impairment of rights is unaccept- com. sion of Section 33, the notwith- minister and Trudeau’s point man government has promised to bub- able. The Hill Times 10 THE HILL TIMES | WEDNESDAY, JUNE 16, 2021

Comment

TTAWA—There is a direct line lid in 2017, which sought to “con- Ofrom the political and policy demn Islamophobia and all forms The consequences responses following 9/11 to the of systemic racism and religious murder of the Afzaal-Salman fam- discrimination.” One would think ily; there is a cause and effect when that such a low bar of humanity politicians spread state-sanctioned could be cleared by nearly anyone, hate through policies and the except the Conservative Party, of Islamophobic rhetoric required to sell them to the which callously used free speech as public. It is at this point of reckon- a wedge to vote against the motion. ing that Canada once again learns As I wrote in my May 5 column, that it’s performative in its multicul- “Those in power continue to wea- turalism. ponize free speech for their own Following the United States’ ends that have nothing to do with Conservative passing of the Patriot Act in 2001, preserving the rights and freedoms Canada passed the Anti-Terror- of all Canadians,” and this display ism Act of 2001, known as Bill of U.S.-style Republicanism, which C-36. In critiquing this bill, the bathes in white supremacy, was a Canadian Centre for Policy Alter- tactic racialized and non-racialized policies are coming natives (CCPA) pointed out that Conservative MPs were happy to “Bill C-36 creates far-reaching use when they felt they could attract powers with major implications votes. But then, the world changed. for civil liberties. It provides a And now the consequences of these sweeping definition of terrorism chickens are coming home to roost, home to roost that risks capturing legitimate po- and they’re perched on O’Toole’s litical dissent. ... It empowers the ledge. Solicitor General to recommend If he doesn’t attempt to make that groups be put on a public amends for his part, good luck with terrorist list without any advance that election win he seeks. notice or an opportunity for O’Toole had a seat at the table response prior to listing.” Nothing that spawned the Islamophobic could go wrong here. rhetoric and campaign platform of The definition of who is and the hate-filled 2015 federal election, who isn’t a terrorist is at the heart but it is Harper whose Islamophobic of Islamophobia today, and is the policies got the ball rolling. In 2014, reason domestic terrorism wasn’t the Harper government passed Bill on the radar of federal officials C-24, the Strengthening Canadian (which should make one wonder Citizenship Act. As explained by the about the return on investment for Library of Congress, the act “gives all the resources sunk into national the Minister of Citizenship and security). We have defined Muslim- Immigration the power to revoke Canadians as the enemy—effective- the Canadian citizenship of dual ly “othering” them—derided their citizens and those eligible for dual religion and cultures, surveilled citizenship when such persons are them, weaponized our immigration convicted of terrorism, high treason, system against them, while still treason, or espionage.” Suffice it to engaging in the vanity project that say that excludes white, domestic is diversity. Behind the scenes, how- terrorists. There are a lot of layers ever, the Canadian state, supported in that bill that make assumptions by a willing public and a voracious about who is and isn’t a Canadian, media complex, marginalized and the “loyalty” of those with dual terrorized a group of people based citizenship and the second-class on religion and skin colour—much citizenship of immigrants or chil- of what Quebec’s Bill 21 does. dren of immigrants, who are most The irony is that Quebec in 2019 likely of colour. The message that succeeded where the Conservatives the Harper Conservatives sent with failed nationally in 2015. this bill is that those who aren’t “old It is within this context that stock Canadians” are suspect and Stephen Harper tweeted out the their loyalty must be questioned at following on June 8: “Canada is all times to prove they’re not “the a place of tolerance and plural- enemy.” ism. Cruel acts of racial and faith Next was Bill C-51, an update based hatred must be unequivo- to the Anti-Terrorism Act of 2001, cally condemned by us all. Laureen passed in 2015, which fundamen- and I join our fellow Canadians in tally restructured national security, praying for the Afzaal and Salman so much so we are only beginning families during this unfathom- to see the ramifications. This bill: ex- ably difficult time.” What a dick panded the no-fly list, criminalized move, particularly because policies promoting terrorism, allowed court that sanctioned and normalized proceedings to be sealed (including Islamophobia were enacted under deportation), lowered the threshold his watch. In addition, instead of for arrest (and we all know how writing statements of regret like his transparent and fair the Canadian Current Conservative Party Leader Erin O'Toole, pictured left during an October 2020 press conference, and former fellow caucus members, Tim Uppal justice system is), lengthened the leader Stephen Harper, pictured during a 2015 campaign stop in New Brunswick. If O'Toole doesn’t attempt to make and Michelle Rempel Garner, the period of “preventive” detention, amends for his part in Islamophobic Conservative policies, good luck with that election win he seeks, writes Erica Ifill. current Conservative Party leader and a myriad of other police-state The Hill Times photograph by Andrew Meade and file photograph deflected responsibility by claiming, tactics. “all parties need to do better.” Note that the alleged perpetra- The party of “personal responsi- tor of the London attack is only 20 bility” elected a man who engages years old. It is his generation that O’Toole had a seat at the table that spawned Erica in deflection better than Wonder was born into the post-9/11 era of the Islamophobic rhetoric and campaign Ifill Woman’s Bracelets of Submission. Islamophobia, so it’s not surprising This isn’t good enough con- if he’s been radicalized by a Cana- platform of the hate-filled 2015 federal sidering that Erin O’Toole was in dian state with far more reach and Harper’s cabinet and signed onto conversion than any social media election, but it is Harper whose Islamophobic Bad+Bitchy the “barbaric cultural practices” tip platform could boast. line, the niqab debate, and refused Erica Ifill is a co-host of the policies got the ball rolling. to vote in favour of M-103, a motion Bad+Bitchy podcast. introduced by Liberal MP Iqra Kha- The Hill Times WEDNESDAY, JUNE 16, 2021 | THE HILL TIMES 11

Comment

Prime Minister Justin Trudeau, left, was present in Britain on the weekend as G7 leaders and others—European Council President Charles Michel, U.S. President Joe Biden, Japanese Prime Minister Yoshihide Suga, U.K. Prime Minister Boris Johnson, Italian Prime Minister Mario Draghi, French President Emmanuel Macron, European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen, and German Chancellor Angela Merkel—turned the lights on again after wandering around for years in the confused darkness cast by Donald Trump, writes Les Whittington. No. 10 Downing Street photograph by Simon Dawson

a position to argue Canadians have gotten past COVID and are ready to take a leap into a more environmentally attuned and With Trump left behind and COVID innovative future, where a greater portion of wealth is spread beyond Bay Street and the wealthy. In the campaign, Trudeau will likely have a substantial advantage over easing, Trudeau can soon test his the Conservatives, who are stuck with an unconvincing leader and doomsday pan- demic posture that can only be described as alarmist and non-constructive at a time standing and vision with voters when Canadians were looking for leaders to pull together and offer hope. In addi- tion, Conservatives can’t seem to shed their Trudeau was present in Britain on the to be part of a constructive summit that social conservative bent. If, as expected, Trudeau weekend as G7 leaders turned the lights lent a measure of dignity to his and other Still, Trudeau is vulnerable on numer- on again after wandering around for years leaders’ roles on the world stage. ous fronts, from ethics allegations to manages to prompt a fall in the confused darkness cast by Donald And Trudeau can look back with some the lack of early border closures during election, the Liberals are Trump. Even with all the G7’s shortcom- satisfaction on his brush with Trump the pandemic to military sex scandals, ings, the renewal of what you might call on NAFTA. While it has been obscured U.S.-Canada problems, the disappear- in a position to argue good-faith efforts of this powerful group of by the pandemic, Trudeau and Finance ing middle class, China, resistance to rich countries to try to find consensus on Minister Chrystia Freeland, who oversaw carbon taxes, and unfulfilled Indigenous Canadians have gotten pressing global issues is a much-needed the NAFTA renegotiations demanded by reconciliation promises. But the prime breakthrough. Trump, saved Canadians from a huge eco- minister did manage to sidestep the trap past COVID and are ready The U.S.’s Joe Biden, president of the nomic setback by keeping the protection- laid on the Bloc Québécois’ behalf regard- country to whom other G7 leaders have ist U.S. leader from significantly damag- ing Quebec’s constitutional standing, and to take a leap into a more traditionally looked for critical support, ing Canada-U.S. bilateral trade. Landing some polls show prospects for a Liberal environmentally attuned moved to put the Trump era of American NAFTA 2.0 in the face of the over-the-top majority. By September, most Canadi- nihilism to rest at the meeting in a resort demands for concessions by the Trump ans will probably be vaccinated and the and innovative future town in Cornwall. “Everyone at the table vandals preserved Canada’s economic government will be nearly two years old, understood and understands both the seri- potential for the foreseeable future. time enough for a minority government to ousness and the challenges that we are up COVID, which of course is what Trudeau decide to roll the dice. Les against and the responsibility of our proud will now have as a legacy, is finally show- What will be important to watch in the democracies to step up and deliver to the ing signs of not being the denominator of campaign is whether voters are ready to Whittington rest of the world,” Biden said afterwards Canadians’ day-to-day existence. Despite buy into Trudeau’s and Freeland’s ambi- in reference to the challenges of China’s everything, the Liberals appear to be enjoy- tious vision for the future. Will their call for power and the spread of illiberal govern- ing solid support in the polls as more and Canadians to see the pandemic as a point ments. more people have a second vaccination in Need to Know of demarcation and jettison traditionally This year’s G7 was a far cry from the sight. The country is poised for a rebound in parsimonious, cautious political notions in time Trump had nursed hopes of using his the second half of the year and Trudeau and favour of extensive government-supported TTAWA—Prime Minister Justin year as host of the prestigious summit to Freeland used the 2021 budget to put a full- efforts to transform the country along OTrudeau evaded the Trump menace and promote one of his golf resorts or the 2018 scale strategy in place for the recovery and more equitable, greener socio-economic is now on the verge of politically surviving meeting in Charlevoix, Que., when in a fit years ahead, with an emphasis on better lines be persuasive? It will be an historic the worst public health crisis in a century. of diplomatic road rage, Trump instructed social supports, tech-based growth, im- juncture, and we’ll likely get the answer Taken together, those developments likely U.S. officials not to endorse the stan- proved training and education, and a green sometime between now and November. signal an attempt sooner than later by the dard wrap-up communiqué and insulted economic revolution. Les Whittington is a regular columnist Liberals to try to reclaim the parliamentary Trudeau as “dishonest and weak.” On this If, as expected, Trudeau manages to for The Hill Times. majority forfeited in 2019. past weekend, Trudeau was clearly happy prompt a fall election, the Liberals are in The Hill Times 12 THE HILL TIMES | WEDNESDAY, JUNE 16, 2021

News

busy with contract work, most Change is the word: Meet the seven recently working with chiefs across Alberta’s three treaty ar- eas for the First Nations Informa- tion Governance Centre, which supports First Nations in taking candidates for AFN national chief “ownership, control, access, and possession of our data informa- quotient” for funding to police, Mr. Hart said he brings a Jodi Calahoo- tion,” he explained. The Assembly of First health, and education services; “wealth of experience,” in poli- Stonehouse. Along with other past roles and its Choose Life initiative. tics and in life, to the table. His Photograph with Tsuut’ina First Nation (man- Nations will elect a Asked his priorities if elected, parents were brought up in the courtesy of ager of infrastructure, director of new national chief on Mr. Fiddler said from conversa- residential school system, and in Jodi Calahoo- public works), Mr. Crowchild is a tions he’s had, he thinks “there is turn, Mr. Hart was raised by his Stonehouse’s former member of APTN’s board July 7. Four men and definitely a need to transform our grandparents. campaign or directors and a past chairman national organization—the As- “I came from a very impover- of Making Treaty 7 Cultural Soci- three women are in sembly of First Nations—to make ished family, no running water ety’s board. it more inclusive and safer for and such, left home at an early He told The Hill Times he the running, coming everyone, especially for women age because it was one less mouth made the decision to run for and girls … while respecting the to feed, became homeless on the national chief in October, after from First Nations sovereignty of our nations.” streets in Winnipeg. If it wasn’t for the thought “kept coming back” communities in Mr. Fiddler said his platform friends and family … I could have during his private meditations. comes down to three things: easily slipped and went into those “I thought long and hard about Alberta, Saskatchewan, “our land, our children, and our dark areas where I could have this and the direction that leader- ship of the Assembly of First Na- future.” Along with a long-term very well been a statistic, been bly, which is about innovating and tions needs to go,” said Mr. Crow- Manitoba, and Ontario. roadmap for future generations to dead by now, or I could have gone being transparent and accountable child. “They’re doing the right follow, he said he wants to create to jail,” he told The Hill Times. to our chiefs in assembly.” things, they just need … a little Continued from page 1 a post-COVID “recovery frame- “It’s those humble things “We’re entering a new era bit of a course adjustment. Now work” for First Nations to address that I, with each day, that I rise of post-pandemic recovery,” Ms. Alvin Fiddler said as recently really, what AFN needs—and I the costs—in terms of money and and I think about why I’m here Calahoo-Stonehouse said. “We as December, he thought “for think I’m really good at this—is mental health—incurred over the and why I’m fighting for these need to be ready to come forward sure” he would seek re-election a voice of real strong leadership past 16 months. He also spoke changes and why I’m fighting for with innovative solutions.” this coming August. That month, based on tradition.” of desire to put a “strong focus these investments.” She spoke of the importance, he took his snowshoes out, and Mr. Crowchild said the AFN’s on women’s issues,” beyond the If elected national chief, he as national chief, of amplifying began “going into the bush,” con- true mandate is to take direc- calls of the national inquiry into said he would establish a “100- the voices of the chiefs in assem- tinuing his long walks through tion from chiefs and help them missing and murdered Indigenous day action plan” with various bly and consulting “with every January, February, and March, as “open those doors” in dealing with women and girls (MMIWG), benchmarks, among them: getting single First Nation” on issues calls began to come in from re- external governments: “We have including how the Indian Act a commitment from the prime impacting them: “My role as the spected leaders across the county to step away from a one-size-fits- “continues to oppress Indigenous minister to review all laws and national chief is to ensure that asking him to consider running all approach that the government women and girls,” and the dispro- legislation affecting First Nations that communication process is for national chief. likes to use.” The organization is portionate number of Indigenous people and interests (laws which there and that no nation is left meant to support rights holders, women in jail across Canada, he feels “are very racist and detri- behind.” She cited the “tension and asserting treaty rights and among other things. mental”), calling a special chiefs around Bill C-15” as evidence that First Nations sovereignty is key, assembly to discuss the direction that’s been lost in recent years. he said. and mandate of the AFN (“it’s While the AFN officially endorsed Kevin Hart (Manitoba) If elected, he wants to create an apparent that there are changes the United Nations Declara- As a Manitoba Regional Chief advisory council of women chiefs— that are needed,” he said), asking tion on the Rights of Indigenous for the last six years, Kevin Hart there are around 160 currently the federal government “to quit Peoples Act, it has faced opposi- has been responsible for a range across Canada—to advise him as fighting our children in court,” tion from a number of chiefs of social development portfolios, national chief. “That brings back demanding an apology from the across Canada. including housing and infrastruc- balance to the way we tradition- Pope, and sitting down with the Ms. Calahoo-Stonehouse said ture, child welfare, early learning ally ran our leadership,” said Mr. commissioners of the Truth and “unity” among the “sovereign First and childcare, and food security. Crowchild. “Women were always Reconciliation Commission to Nations chiefs in assembly” would He’s also held the women’s coun- the backbone of our nations.” work with the government to be her top priority, followed by cil and MMIWG portfolios and He also spoke of the impor- implement its 94 calls to action. using “evaluation tools, outcome co-chaired the AFN’s COVID-19 tance of an economic strategy for tools, and data” to review resolu- National Task Force. First Nations in different regions, tions passed by the assembly “to A former Manitoba MLA for Jodi Calahoo-Stonehouse green and cleaner energy, hous- Grand Chief Alvin Fiddler. Photograph see where we are making sys- La Pas (and a former staffer at ing, and clean drinking water, courtesy of Alvin Fiddler’s campaign (Alberta) temic change, where it’s working, the legislature), last year he be- along with the need for First Jodi Calahoo-Stonehouse has and where we need to improve Nations to generate and manage been executive director of Nat- our efforts.” To inform this, last “[My parents] used to tell me data about themselves for them- amoowin, Yellowhead Indigenous week, her campaign launched a that when people ask you to do selves, not rely on information Education Foundation since 2019 national well-being survey, with something, no matter how dif- compiled by the federal govern- and last year was appointed hopes of creating annual well- ficult it is, you really have to think ment via Statistics Canada or to the Edmonton Police Com- being assessments by the AFN. about it and reflect on it,” he said. mission. She’s also currently a Health Canada. “It became a community decision, steward with the Edmonton Shift a community process … in early Lab. She previously served two Lee Crowchild (Alberta) May, that’s when we made the Lee Crowchild served as a Cathy Martin (Quebec) three-year terms on the Michel With 20 years of political expe- decision to put my name forward.” third-generation chief of the First Nation’s council, her home rience, Cathy Martin is currently A former deputy chief of his Tsuut’ina First Nation from 2016 community, and is founder of Mi- serving her fourth term as a home community of Muskrat to 2019, and since then has been yo-Pimatisiwin Productions and member of the Listuguj Mi’gmaq Dam First Nation, Mr. Fiddler producer of the radio program, Nation’s band council. is also a former health direc- Acimowin. Up until COVID hit, she trav- tor at NAN, served three terms Asked why she decided to run, elled from community to com- as NAN’s deputy grand chief in Chief Kevin T. Hart. Photograph Ms. Calahoo-Stonehouse said as munity as an education specialist all, and was manager of Ontario courtesy of Chief Kevin Hart’s campaign a teenager, she dreamed she’d with the First Nations Health regional liaisons for the Truth and become national chief and was Management Association. With a Reconciliation Commission. introduced to the assembly by came the first Indigenous person doctorate degree in educational During his time as grand her grandfather: “My time spent to be inducted into the Football leadership, she’s also led curricu- chief, Mr. Fiddler said NAN has with elders and learning from the Manitoba Hall of Fame. lum development for the British “led in different areas,” including grassroots people, learning from Originally from the Nisicha- Columbia Health Directors As- through its involvement in the leaders, observing the assembly, wayasihk Cree Nation, Mr. Hart sociation, through her work for Canadian Human Rights Tribu- and as well as my time spent now lives in his wife’s community Gevity Inc., and workshops for nal case launched by the First studying and learning about sys- of Sagkeeng First Nation (with the Aboriginal Financial Officer’s Nations Child and Family Caring tems and design thinking, as well Lee Crowchild, wearing a shirt in his in-laws, since 2019, when his Society’s Cindy Blackstock; its as in innovation, has prepared me support of LGBTQ people. Photograph home burned down). Continued on page 30 development of the “remoteness to bring a new lens to the assem- courtesy of Facebook The Hill Times | June 16, 2021 NATURAL RESOURCES O’Regan will need energy to tackle challenges in ‘super- sensitive’ natural resources portfolio pp. 14, 25-26

Forestry’s bright future cannot resemble a bygone era Some inconvenient truths in the race to a renewable p. 18 energy transition p. 22 How to achieve balance between environmental Diamonds can still play a stewardship and the role in Canada’s future resource economy p. 24 p. 21 14 THE HILL TIMES | WEDNESDAY, JUNE 16, 2021

ing to a recently released report by David Hughes, a veteran earth scientist and former research manager at the O’Regan will need Geological Survey of Canada, which is part of Natural Resources Canada’s earth sciences sector. While the oil and gas sector “alone” will cause Canada to miss its emissions-reduction targets, royalty energy to tackle revenue retuned to government “has plummeted and employment in the sector has also been declining,” wrote Mr. Hughes in his paper on Canada’s energy sector, co-published by several groups, including the Canadian Centre challenges in ‘super- for Policy Alternatives. “Direct employment, which peaked at over 226,000 workers in 2014, was down by 53,000 in 2019, although pro- duction was at an all-time high due to sensitive’ natural efficiencies adopted by the industry.” Also in 2019, the energy sector contributed about nine per cent of Canada’s gross domestic product, “a share that has been declining even though oil and gas production has resources portfolio been increasing.” One way for Canada to stanch the emissions bleed is to cancel the Replenishing “taxpayer-funded” Trans Mountain forests, pipeline expansion project, which Mr. balancing Hughes said would save almost the competing federal government’s entire cost as- sociated with the expansion ($12.6-mil-

Policy Briefing Policy interests in energy sources lion) “that could be spent on aggressive and keeping emissions-reduction measures.” Canada on In an interview with The Hill Times, a path to he said “the existing pipeline is needed reduce carbon because it supplies fuel for the Lower emissions is a Mainland,” but tripling the amount of formidable task oil with the expansion project “is defi- that Natural nitely not needed.” Resources However, Mr. Hughes is “convinced” Minister that Canada, with its cold winters, will Seamus still need to rely on fossil fuels “at some O’Regan seems level for the foreseeable future.” As a to handling result, the net-zero emissions-reduction well, says target is “a fantasy within existing poli- former Liberal cies.” A more realistic goal for cutting adviser Scott emissions would be to use “a lot less en- Reid. The ergy” through government-incentivized Hill Times home green retrofits, reliance on public photograph by transit, and alternative and renewable Andrew Meade sources of energy, such as solar and wind, he said. Mr. Hughes said he believes that one way of cutting oilsands emis- sions is also by reducing the export of oil and natural gas, along with the higher than what the federal govern- production associated with it as well as ‘Seamus has been quiet in the portfolio, but it appears ment committed at U.S. President Joe lowering domestic consumption. Biden’s climate summit of world lead- Ms. Paul said she believes Prime that he has concentrated on working with industry ers in April. Minister Justin Trudeau (Papineau, and stakeholders, and building those relationships,’ Given Canada’s current direction, Que.) was provided with a pause to Ms. Paul said she believes the 60 per consider the future of pipelines when says former Liberal adviser Scott Reid. cent goal will be an elusive one. President Joe Biden, just hours after “We continue to bring online new taking the oath of office in January, pipeline projects, continue to allow signed an executive order revoking BY CHRISTOPHER GULY examine Canada’s climate action plan, gas to be fracked and do off-coast oil his predecessor Donald Trump’s 2019 much like the assembly of all Members exploration,” she said. “There is simply presidential permit for the Keystone n the natural resources file, of Parliament that was struck last year no way we can do those things and at XL 1,947-kilometre pipeline. OCanada’s Green Party parts ways to deal with the COVID-19 pandemic. the same time get to that goal.” On June 9, Calgary-based TC with the federal Liberal government The special COVID-19 Pandemic More than one-quarter of Canada’s Energy Corp. announced that it had on several key issues, from promoting Committee provided a “proof of con- greenhouse gas emissions originate in terminated the Alberta-to-Nebraska pipelines to pursuing nuclear power as cept” in taking a united front in dealing the oil and gas sector, “which is why pipeline project. energy sources. with an international human-health Canada is one of the top five worst Conservative Leader Erin O’Toole But Annamie Paul, the federal crisis, said Ms. Paul. As a global threat emitters in the world,” said the Green (Durham, Ont.) released a statement Green leader, said she would rather to the entire planet, climate change is leader, noting that the country’s year- calling the cancellation “devastating” Natural Resources Natural focus her party’s efforts on finding “as existential as it gets, and it’s going over-year emissions have increased and “a culmination of the Trudeau common ground with the Liberals and to require rapid, decisive, and co-or- since Canada signed the Paris Agree- Liberals’ failure to recognize the im- the other opposition parties in taking dinated action with all hands on deck ment in April 2016. portance of pipeline projects and the a climate-friendly-only approach to from all parties,” she underlined. In fact, Canada is only one of two need to secure Canadian jobs in the manage the country’s natural resourc- Her party has called for a Canadian G7 countries where emissions have resource sector.” es in a way that reverses the upward greenhouse gas emission-reduction increased over the past five years. But On pipelines, Canada’s Greens are trend of greenhouse-gas emissions. target of 60 per cent from 2005 levels with a 3.3 per cent rise, Canada has aligned with U.S. Democrats beyond Her idea is to have a special com- by 2030 to limit the global tempera- outpaced the emissions increase in the mittee of the whole established to ture rise to 1.5 C, or 15 to 20 per cent United States at 0.6 per cent, accord- Continued on page 25 Canadian wood is a renewable resource. Trees provide us with carbon-storing wood products that are beautiful, use less energy in production, and help us build lower-carbon neighbourhoods.

Canadian forestry is sustainable. It also provides family-supporting jobs to over 230,000 Canadians. Our sector plants 400-600 million seedlings every year to keep our forests as forests forever.

We can make household products that are better for the environment. Textiles, cosmetics, and paints can be manufactured by breaking wood into its component parts (cellulose, hemicellulose, and lignin) to further lower GHG emissions and green our homes.

Powering Green Growth and a Lower-Carbon Economy

Forests that are managed sustainably, together with the carbon-storing forest products they provide, are among the most powerful tools to support Canada’s move to a net-zero carbon economy by 2050.

As we focus on a green, post-pandemic recovery, Canada's forest sector and its people are ready to do more. Learn more about Canada’s forest products sector, our communities, and our people: www.forestryforthefuture.ca B:21.75" T:21.75" S:21.75"

Bell for Better Every day, we work to advance how Canadians connect with each other and the world. Our business is communications, but our reach goes far beyond that. With our connectivity commitments in remote communities and the largest cities, as well as investments in mental health initiatives, environmental sustainability, and an engaged workplace, we look to create a thriving, prosperous and more connected world.

Better world B:13.5" S:13.5" T:13.5" Bell is committed to reducing greenhouse gas emissions by 2030, in line with the Paris climate agreement and the Science Based Targets initiative. Our first milestone is to achieve carbon neutral operations by 2025. And through Bell Let's Talk, we are dedicated to supporting mental health initiatives with our commitment of $155M by 2025.

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Policy Briefing Natural Resources Virtue-signalling is not a viable path to net-zero

that the government is serious projects that would have helped Even when it comes to proven tion have been flowing south of Punitive policies, about combatting climate change. reduce Canadian and global methods of decarbonization, like the border instead. Yet when the By false virtue alone, it chooses greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions. carbon capture, storage, and uti- Liberals introduced a CCUS tax wishful thinking that to avoid the Canadian oil and gas Bill C-69’s hostile regulatory en- lization (CCUS), this government credit in the recent budget, they industry’s proven commitment to vironment has led to the cancel- prefers symbolism over sound explicitly excluded enhanced oil ignores global energy environmental advancements. lation of the Kitimat LNG project, policy. CCUS is the only avail- recovery (EOR) projects from the needs, and regulatory Unfortunately for the Liberals, which would have displaced GHG able technology that can remove credit. While this signals the Lib- the road to achieving Canada’s emissions equivalent to those carbon from the environment, eral government’s disapproval of hurdles that discourage climate goals is not through push- produced by the entire province and one of the most important the oil and gas industry loud and ing the energy sector—and an of British Columbia, setting a new tools we have to decarbonize our clear, it ignores the significant innovation and entire region of Canada—under potential for EOR to reduce the the rug. Canada’s energy needs emissions intensity of the oil and investment only serve are not going away, and the en- gas we use every day. Ultimately, to handicap the energy ergy sector has a central role to excluding EOR from CCUS incen- play in decarbonizing Canada’s tives makes Canada less attrac- sector, and ultimately economy. In fact, the greatest tive as a jurisdiction for CCUS threat to Canada’s environmental investment than the U.S.—damp- set Canada back. goals and our energy sector alike ening the potential impact of this is a government more focused tax credit. on the appearance of progress In the fight to decarbonize Conservative than on supporting real solutions our economy, Canada’s energy to Canada’s environmental and sector is not the enemy; it is our MP Greg energy challenges. The world’s most valuable asset. Punitive McLean energy needs are “supply-agnos- policies, wishful thinking that tic,” and by promoting policies ignores global energy needs, and Opinion which hamper Canadian energy regulatory hurdles that discour- development, this government By false virtue alone, the Liberal government chooses to avoid the Canadian age innovation and investment is choosing to provide the world oil and gas industry’s proven commitment to environmental advancements, only serve to handicap the energy o the casual observer—and with fewer—and less environmen- writes Conservative MP Greg McLean. Photograph courtesy of Pixabay sector, and ultimately set Canada Tperhaps, to many Canadian tally advanced—options moving back. When virtue-signalling is voters—this government seems forward. the strategy, everyone loses. The to be saying all the right things Take, for example, Bill C-69 global standard for the lowest economy. For months, I’ve been sooner we have a government about making headway in the from the last Parliament, the emissions intensity of any large- calling on the government to in- that understands the energy fight against climate change. It Liberals’ misguided attempt to scale LNG facility. Likewise, the centivize CCUS through my own sector and its role in harnessing has made sweeping feel-good overhaul Canada’s environmental implication of “no more pipelines” private member’s bill and through solutions to achieve our decar- promises to achieve net-zero regulations. The bill was designed means that Canada is transport- pressure to include a CCUS tax bonization goals, the better off emissions by 2050, though its with such a dense web of regula- ing more oil by rail, with vastly credit in their 2021 budget. This is we’ll be—in Canada, and around record of accomplishing any real tory burdens and uncertainty for greater environmental impacts a smart move; Canada has been the world. domestic reductions is far less potential energy projects that it and risks. The reality is that Ca- a leader in CCUS technology Conservative MP Greg reassuring. Meanwhile, it seems is colloquially known as the “No nadians and our trading partners development and adoption, but McLean is his party’s natural content to ignore the headwinds New Pipelines” bill. And while it need energy for our everyday since the U.S. introduced their resources critic, and represents facing the energy sector in Al- may signal the government’s vir- lives; the only path forward is to own CCUS tax credit in 2018, Calgary Centre, Alta. berta, as if distancing itself proves tue, it has already stymied energy decarbonize our energy supply. investments in carbon reduc- The Hill Times

products we produce from the The recent protests in and Forestry’s bright future harvested timber are all critical around Fairy Creek on the west parts of that process. If we can coast of Vancouver Island have implement harvest practices that generated a huge outpouring of minimize soil disturbance, use support for the preservation of cannot resemble a bygone era forestry waste for renewable old-growth forests, and the B.C. natural gas, pulp and paper or government has made it clear it he forest sector is facing ficulties facing Canadian lumber other new products, and produce will honour the request from the Forestry will continue Tunprecedented challenges in producers in terms of softwood more durable building materi- Pacheedaht, Ditidaht, and Huu- Canada, but with those challeng- lumber tariffs, but it is unclear als such as mass timber, we can ay-aht First Nations by deferring to provide good es come opportunities to build a how long they will remain higher maximize the climate benefits of old-growth harvesting for two strong industry based on truly than normal. forests while benefitting from a years in their territories while the jobs for thousands sustainable harvesting practices All this upheaval is happening strong forestry economy. First Nations create a resource of Canadians from that can provide long-lasting, at a time when many analysts are Healthy, intact forests are also stewardship plan for the land. dependable jobs, preserve biodi- examining what the role of the for- critically important to maintain- These types of agreements will coast to coast, but the versity, protect our watersheds, est sector could or should be in our ing biodiversity and ecosystem become more common across and cushion the planet from the efforts to reduce carbon dioxide services that we rely on, including Canada and will help to bring cer- diversity of those jobs, impact of climate change. emissions around the world. For- clean, reliable water supplies, and tainty to the long-term planning So how is the industry coping ests generally absorb about one- flood protection. Old-growth for- horizons that forestry demands. the skills needed, and with these challenges, and what third of our global carbon emis- ests are particularly biodiverse, There is a bright future for might be the best path forward? sions, but increasing deforestation, and many species are only found forestry in Canada. But it will not the products they In the short term, catastrophic forest fires, and insect outbreaks in forests more than 200 years be the forest sector of 50 years produce, will be as fires and insect epidemics have have reduced that contribution in old, much older than current ago, when access to fibre and lowered the available timber recent years. Large fires can turn managed forest rotations allow. lumber was inexpensive and easy. diverse as the forests harvest in Canada. The initial forests into net emitters of carbon More and more, conversations Forestry will continue to provide months of COVID-19 produced dioxide, and in some years that net around forest management are good jobs for thousands of Cana- themselves. uncertainty in the lumber sector amount can be huge—up to 200 focusing on values other than dians from coast to coast, but the and prices plunged. Things looked megatonnes in British Columbia maximizing fibre output. The diversity of those jobs, the skills very dire a year ago. alone in both 2017 and 2018. British Columbia government re- needed, and the products they NDP MP But construction, particularly If managed properly, forests cently announced that it is devel- produce, will be as diverse as the Richard the benchmark U.S. housing can play an important part in our oping a new forest management forests themselves. starts, rebounded strongly last fight against climate change. How framework, which, among other NDP MP Richard Cannings, Cannings summer, and that soaring demand we harvest the trees, what we do things, would provide a greater who represents South Okana- helped create an unprecedented with branches, small trunks, and involvement of First Nations in gan–West Kootenay, B.C., is his Opinion surge in lumber prices. These other debris that are normally forest management decisions and party’s natural resources critic. prices have ameliorated the dif- left unused or burned, and what tenures. The Hill Times REIMAGINING THE FUTURE OF ALBERTA’S ENERGY RESOURCES

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Learn how albertainnovates.ca 20 THE HILL TIMES | WEDNESDAY, JUNE 16, 2021

Policy Briefing Natural Resources Sustainability starts with natural resources

Canada is at a The Green Party joined the Current resource crossroads. We Anishinabek Nation and all U.S. can continue federally recognized Indigenous extraction continues to invest in and tribes in Michigan to support this subsidize extractive shutdown in defense of Indig- at unsustainable industries, with enous sovereignty. Indigenous levels, and we must limited job peoples have stewarded Canadian creation and land for millennia, and we must act quickly to protect growth potential, support their efforts to prevent or we can embrace energy extraction from threaten- our land and waters a new vision ing our natural resources. Despite for responsible the Anishinabek’s support for and to mitigate natural resource shutting Line 5 and Whitmer’s de- climate change. stewardship and a cision, the Canadian government sustainable energy has sided with Enbridge against supply, writes Michigan in court to keep it open. Green Party Leader Annamie Paul. Environmentalists and Unsplash photograph Indigenous peoples welcomed Annamie by Einar Storsul the cancellation of the Keystone Paul XL pipeline that ignored treaty obligations and has left Alber- Opinion tans on the hook for $1.3-billion. However, construction continues on the Coastal GasLink and Trans ne of Canada’s greatest Mountain pipelines, even though Oriches is our wealth of natural most, that means keeping as much ing history of oil spills that have Line 5 rupture far exceeds the they infringe on Indigenous sov- resources. From the Great Lakes oil in the ground as possible. polluted the environment and cost jobs supported by the pipeline. ereignty and bring work camps. to old-growth trees, our land and Last month, Michigan Gover- billions to clean up. In 2010, the And while additional independent Greens also support a ban on waters have supported people liv- nor Gretchen Whitmer fulfilled company’s Line 6B leaked more research is needed to assess the hydraulic fracturing (fracking), a ing in Canada for generations. Yet a campaign promise by ordering than three million litres of oil full impacts of closing Line 5, it process that contaminates drink- current resource extraction con- the shutdown of Enbridge’s Line over 17 hours near the Kalama- appears that capacity exists in ing water and emits methane, a tinues at unsustainable levels, and 5 crude oil pipeline to protect the zoo River. Despite 16 high-pri- other pipelines to weather the highly potent gas that contributes we must act quickly to protect our 20 per cent of the world’s fresh- ority alarms sounding, Enbridge shutdown without significant to rising carbon pollution, and a land and waters and to mitigate water stored in the Great Lakes. restarted the pipeline twice. The shortages or higher prices for climate change. First and fore- Enbridge has a long and devastat- number of jobs at risk from a people in Canada. Continued on page 24

renewable resources being harvest- Canadian standards keep forestry ed at a time when Canadians are being urged to focus on renewable resources rather than resources that are depleted when used. It is widely believed that renewable industry towering above the rest resources are closely related with the sustainability of resources. northern hemisphere and encom- “logging scars,” and deforestation Privileged urbanites living in Privileged urbanites must become mindful of passing seven time zones. Due to more generally. prosperous neighbourhoods, far the vastness of this land, Canada Yet, when we examine em- removed in distance from and demanding unsustainable forestry practices far is home to nine per cent of the pirical, evidence-based data from understanding of the forestry in excess of the very high sustainable forestry world’s forests while 90 per cent of Statistics Canada and Natural industry, must become mindful of those forests in Canada are on land Resources Canada, we learn that demanding—ironically—unsus- standards that have been adopted in Canada. owned by governments or Indig- approximately only 0.2 per cent tainable forestry practices far in enous peoples, strongly suggesting of Canada’s forests are being excess of the very high sustain- centrality of transportation and com- this is no “ordinary industry.” harvested. In empirical terms, able forestry standards that have Ian munications—to acquire a deeper Indeed, the resources of the for- 779,000 hectares of a total 347 been adopted in Canada, as this and more complete understanding estry industry employs more than million hectares of forests were could render forestry harvesting Lee of the development of Canada. 300,000 people (direct and indirect), harvested in 2015. And Canadian unsustainable in Canada. At a very early stage of including approximately 12,000 In- law requires that every tree that There are significant numbers Canada’s evolution, forestry and digenous peoples, and contributes is harvested must be replaced. of Indigenous people and work- Opinion lumber products became a very $33-billion in Canadian exports. This points to why more than 600 ing-class people in hundreds of important export. The forestry industry is especially million seedlings are planted an- rural communities across Canada According to the Canadian En- critical to the well-being of 300 nually across Canada. In addition whose very livelihoods depend on n any discussion of the Canadi- cyclopedia: “Wood was the staple communities, mostly in rural and to this, a very small amount—less the forestry industry and the jobs Ian forestry industry, we should of Canadian trade for much of the often remote parts of Canada, due than half of one per cent of Cana- provided. Greater sensitivity is re- recognize that Canadians stand 19th century. Fuelled by European to the $11-billion in wages earned da’s forests—are being deforested quired by the privileged towards on the shoulders of two giants, in demand, the timber trade brought by workers in this industry. for non-forest use. less-affluent, ordinary Canadians any serious understanding of the investment and immigration to Moreover, the industry gener- What is more remarkable is in rural and remote communities historical evolution and impor- eastern Canada, fostered eco- ates almost $2-billion annually that Canada’s forest sustainability in Canada working in critically tance of this staple to Canada. nomic development, and trans- in tax revenues to provincial and policies are widely considered to important renewable resource Firstly, Queen’s University formed the regional environment territorial governments, which be at the leading edge of countries industries. economist W.A. Mackintosh taught far more radically than the earlier is critical, as we move into an in the world. Indeed, while only 10 Ian Lee is an associate profes- us the importance of incorporating exploitation of fish and fur.” unprecedented era of a rapidly per cent of the world’s forests are sor in the Sprott School of Busi- geographical and historical factors But some hard data is necessary aging population with consequent independently audited and certified, ness at Carleton University. He has in the analysis of an economy to illuminate the continued impor- lower long-term average GDP Canada is far ahead of any other no financial interests—direct or instead of the traditional focus on tance of the forestry industry and growth rates, which will yield country in the world, including indirect—in the forestry or natural individuals, politics and ideology. lumber products to Canada today. significantly lower federal and Sweden, Finland, and Australia, in resources sector. However, he grew And secondly, University of Canada occupies the second- provincial revenues. independent audits and certification up on a 200-acre farm with 125 Toronto professor Harold Innis de- largest geographic footprint of any However, in recent times, some of its sustainable forestry practices. acres of old growth forest that he veloped two extraordinarily power- country in the world, spanning activists have criticized this in- Most importantly, the forestry explored throughout his youth. ful ideas—the staples thesis and the approximately 25 per cent of the dustry for logging of “old forests,” industry and lumber products are The Hill Times WEDNESDAY, JUNE 16, 2021 | THE HILL TIMES 21

Policy Briefing Natural Resources How to achieve balance between environmental stewardship and the resource economy

Since the arrival of these explorers, In Canada, whether or not “civilizing” Indigenous peoples because they didn’t practice neoliberalist ways of we like to acknowledge it, marketing and individualism was a com- mon excuse to justify the assimilation and this balance rests between insubordination of Indigenous peoples. resource extractive People argue that history should remain in the past, but it cannot. This country’s companies and Indigenous traditions, philosophies, and justifications have shaped the land and its peoples; ac- communities. There is no complished through the actions of partisan politics. way around this discourse. Will we ever get past the discourse of jurisdictional issues that exist between provinces and First Nations? They were Independent delegated what was our jurisdiction—how Senator Mary do you reconcile what was stolen? Partisan politics cannot think long-term NEED CRITICAL Jane McCallum and therefore cannot plan long-term. Prov- inces and their unilateral inheritance of Opinion treaty rights surrounding childcare, natural resources, health care—all matters that MINERALS FROM are deeply ours. It places the country into ndividuals, corporations, and govern- a deep and abiding social division. Why is Iments all want an easy solution to our country so intent on division? MINERS WITH finding a balance between responsible What are the root causes that have environmental stewardship and a pros- led to this imbalance in the relationship perous resource economy. These are two between a responsible environmental A LEADING mutually exclusive concepts—or are they? stewardship and a prosperous resource In Canada, we never give up hope. economy? Only after society, at its various We know it is a long road back to jus- levels, has had this uncomfortable con- tice that we all have to traverse, together, versation will it start to find its way back SUSTAINABILITY without the resources—natural, human, to ensuring that our future generations and environmental—that we had in the will inherit clean land, air, and water. The past. When we talk about finding bal- initial conversation has to be between STANDARD? ance now, we can no longer go back to Indigenous women and resource extrac- the abundance of the past. This is because tive companies. actions of man, in the pursuit of wealth, “Truth.” Such an easy word to say and have contributed to so much destruction. so very difficult to practice. “Nothing ex- We must be cognizant of what has been ists in isolation.” Such an easy concept to done to our lands in the name of profit understand but also easy to ignore. From EVs to wind turbines and what we do now to ensure our gen- How, then, do we move from a climate erations to come will remain safe in the of destruction through resource extraction Canada has the supply of future. to one that strives to live in harmony with In Canada, whether or not we like to all living things, while respecting their acknowledge it, this balance rests be- environments? critical minerals and metals tween resource extractive companies and In the CBC opinion piece entitled, “Our Indigenous communities. There is no way colonial history, the colonial agenda and around this discourse. As First Nations, Bill C-15,” Wendy Lynn Lerat, a professor you need, and the credentials, we have been unilaterally relegated to at the First Nations University of Canada, provincial jurisdiction despite our federal states: treaties. As First Nations, we struggle “UNDRIP provides hope for a more like Towards Sustainable to find stability through protection of just, sustainable, and decolonized future ® the Canadian government in our own at a time in history when ecosystems are Mining , you can count on. homeland. Why is that? Especially when collapsing as a consequence of global Canada has unilaterally given itself the over-exploitation of Creation. Some call sacred responsibility of being entrusted this ‘development,’ but in reality, it’s a to care for Indians and Indian Lands time of human-caused climate change mining.ca yet has never adequately fulfilled that unprecedented in its magnitude and Learn more at responsibility. reach.” Canada acknowledges that Indigenous How do we bring the proponents of peoples and their legal traditions and colonialism and capitalism to the table societies dominated this country before to take accountability for what they explorers arrived—explorers who would have wrought? That is the main problem; not have survived without the help and thoughts take their own form of being— compassion of the Indigenous peoples. colonialism and capitalism—but they will These explorers then laid claim to what not come to the table for discussion and was not theirs once they were learned the resolution. lay of the land. Independent Senator Mary Jane McCal- CANADIAN We still have these explorers on our lum represents Manitoba and is a member MINING lands today; those who continue to lay of the Senate Energy, the Environment, waste to the land and our lives. They con- and Natural Resources Committee. tinue such actions to this day. The Hill Times 22 THE HILL TIMES | WEDNESDAY, JUNE 16, 2021

Policy Briefing Natural Resources Some inconvenient truths in the race to a renewable energy transition

Shifting to Mining is big business renewable energy is a critical component for Canada. With of curbing global greenhouse gas this influence, emissions, however academics and provincial and federal policy makers governments have a are focusing too narrowly on the unique opportunity technical and cost- benefit dimensions to create supply of managing global supply chains, write chain regulations that Teresa Kramarz, Susan Park, and protect everyone in Craig Johnson. the new clean energy Photograph courtesy of Unsplash economy. Tessa Kramarz, Susan Park, & Craig Johnson

Opinion

ast month, the traditionally Lconservative International Energy Agency dropped a bomb- shell on the international fossil fuel community by calling for a “net-zero” energy system by the year 2050. The report is but the latest in a series of court deci- sions, shareholder movements, and investment trends that point to a serious shift away from fossil fuels. But how will the world meet its (still growing) energy needs without fossil fuels? Switching to renewables is considered one of the most effective ways of getting to net-zero emissions by 2050. But sions, investor protection agree- 3. Displacement through and the unsafe disposal of toxic tainability rules are already creat- producing the solar panels, wind ments, and state regulations that dependent development. Argu- and hazardous waste. ing some pressure on businesses turbines, and long-life lithium- favour multinational mining firms, ably the most insidious form Shifting to renewable energy is a to carry out due diligence checks. ion batteries that are so critical solar panel producers, and wind of displacement occurs when critical component of curbing global We argue for a fuller accounting to renewable energy is driving a turbine manufacturers. In India, powerful states and multinational greenhouse gas emissions, however of the harms involved in the shift commensurate surge in demand for instance, sand that is extracted corporations are able to establish academics and policy makers are to renewable energy and a reap- for raw materials like copper, co- and exported for the production trade and investment agreements focusing too narrowly on the tech- praisal of the governance gaps that balt, zinc, lithium, and rare earth of wind turbines has displaced that effectively lock raw material nical and cost-benefit dimensions of need to be urgently addressed in metals. Prices for these and other numerous local communities. exporting economies in the global managing global supply chains. The this energy transition. energy transition materials have 2. Displacement by degra- South into long-term patterns of socio-economic and environmental Teresa Kramarz is associate been soaring, but the processes dation. Beyond the process of unequal environmental exchange. effects of onshore wind, solar pho- professor and co-director of the by which they are extracted, pro- losing one’s land, another form Global supply chains for copper, tovoltaics, and lithium-ion batteries Environmental Governance Lab at cessed, transported, and discard- of displacement occurs when lithium, cobalt, and other transi- on communities that are already the Munk School of Global Affairs ed entail severe social, economic, ecosystems are polluted and tion minerals are changing rap- vulnerable are notoriously underex- and Public Policy in the University and environmental harms. degraded as a result of extract- idly, but the pattern that is begin- amined in the global conversation. of Toronto. Her work focuses on To better understand these ing minerals, dumping pollutants ning to emerge in China, North To be clear, we are not diminishing environmental accountability and “inconvenient truths,” we outline a from production, transportation, America, and Europe is growing or rejecting the laudable aims of extractivism. Craig Johnson is typology of displacements that in and disposing renewable energy consolidation and control within the decarbonization agenda. On the professor of political science and our view needs to be incorporated waste products. Taking the case the sector. If the history of min- contrary, we are offering a frame- director of the Guelph Institute and addressed in any discussion of lithium extraction required for ing can teach us anything about work that can be used to ensure a of Development Studies at the about net-zero energy transitions. batteries, national regulations for the future of the new economy, more just and sustainable energy University of Guelph. His work Specifically, we identify three closing and managing brine and the current surge in demand for future for everyone. focuses on the politics of transi- forms of displacement that are tailings ponds are generally inef- transition metals will create new Mining is big business for tioning to a just and sustainable generated by the shift to renew- fective or non-existent. Lithium cycles of boom and bust that lock Canada—both at home and abroad. future. Susan Park is a profes- able energy: extraction has been shown to poor countries like the Demo- With this influence, provincial and sor of global governance in the 1. Displacement by disposses- deplete land and water sources, cratic Republic of Congo, where federal governments have a unique Department of Government and sion. Lacking strong and effective exposing human populations to many minerals for renewables are opportunity to create—manda- International Relations at the land rights, local and Indigenous a wide range of health problems, located into destructive develop- tory—supply chain regulations that University of Sydney working on communities are often displaced including damage to the nervous ment dependencies comprised protect everyone in the new clean how to make global governance from their land and sources of system, thyroid and kidneys for of primary extraction for export, energy economy. While Canada greener and more accountable. livelihoods by mining conces- future generations. land expropriation, elite capture, lags in this respect, the EU’s sus- The Hill Times WEDNESDAY, JUNE 16, 2021 | THE HILL TIMES 23

Policy Briefing Natural Resources

But in all cases, they will ultimately reach a point where they are no longer useful. A life-cycle view essential on EV Given the potential volume of end-of- life batteries that will eventually become available, they could pose significant long-term hazards and waste management battery opportunities and risks problems. At the same time, they could also be important sources of components and materials for the manufacturing of spread adoption of electric vehicles (EVs), permanent landscape disruptions and the new batteries, displacing or reducing the Mining key battery might offer Canada have drawn a lot of generation of high-volume legacy wastes need for high-impact primary extraction to attention. The issue of Canada’s potential which will require very long-term, if not obtain these resources. components is inevitably a contributions to EV supply chains, espe- perpetual, management to safeguard the Unfortunately, current approaches to cially batteries, from the mining of primary environment and human health and safety. recycling EV batteries carry significant process that involves major components like lithium and other metals, As part of an NSERC-funded research problems of their own. Dismantling to environmental and social through to design and manufacturing, has network on energy-storage technologies, extract useful components and materials is been at the centre of these discussions. we have been examining the emerging generally regarded as the lowest impact and impacts, including major The opportunities are potentially large, question of the other end of EV battery life most desirable approach. Yet disassembly given that global EV sales are expected to cycles. What happens to EV batteries when is becoming increasingly difficult, as bat- and permanent landscape expand into the hundreds of millions over they reach the end of their useful life in a tery manufacturers move in the direction the next decade, as governments provide vehicle? EV batteries are typically expect- of using welding and advanced adhesives disruptions, and the subsidies for purchasing EVs and develop ed to have useful lives of about seven to in battery construction. The other two generation of high-volume charging infrastructure. Some govern- 10 years. This means, among other things, major options are placing batteries in high ments are moving towards phasing out the that with the growth in EV sales, there is a temperature furnaces to burn off non-metal legacy wastes. sale of internal-combustion-engine-pow- downstream tsunami of waste EV batteries components, and eventually recover useable ered vehicles. looming in the not-too-distant future. metals (pyrometallurgy), or using acids to At the same time, these developments End-of-life EV batteries contain hazard- leach metal components out of the batter- Mark Winfield & could entail some potentially significant ous chemical and metal components, and, ies (hydrometallurgy). Both processes are environmental trade-offs. While EVs offer depending on their condition, can pose fire associated with substantial environmental Sumeet Sooch an important mechanism for decarboniz- and other physical risks as well. Their safe impacts: air emissions and contaminated ing transportation, careful attention needs management requires specific levels of waste slags in the case of pyrometallurgy; to be given to the life-cycle dimensions of training and management at specialized fa- or wastes that are liquid, acidic and hazard- Opinion EV battery systems if these trade-offs are cilities. Batteries in good condition may be ous with hydrometallurgy. to be avoided. The primary extraction (e.g. able to be used in secondary applications, Within the European Union, there mining) of key battery components, like such as providing energy-storage services have been major initiatives to establish ver the past few months, the economic lithium and other metals is inevitably a in support of intermittent renewable energy extended producer responsibility regimes Oopportunities that the electrification process that involves major environmental sources like wind or solar, and even as com- of transportation, particularly the wide- and social impacts, including major and ponents of household level energy systems. Continued on page 26

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Policy Briefing Natural Resources

Sustainability Diamonds can still play starts with a role in Canada’s future natural Diamond mining is among resources the least environmentally Continued from page 20 damaging of all types of shift to investment in green energy tech- nologies which produce far more jobs per mining-based resource dollar invested than the fossil fuel sector. The case is clear: the benefits far outweigh extraction, especially the costs when it comes to moving away from oil and gas. operating within a highly The Canadian forestry industry is not regulated country such as sustainable either. This is obvious in British Columbia where more than 97 per cent Canada. of original high-productivity old-growth forests have been logged to oblivion, and 75 per cent of the little that remains is cur- Graham Pearson, Thomas rently slated to be logged as well. Canada’s forests are one of the best carbon sinks on Stachel, & Sasha Wilson Earth, and these trees hold immense value to Indigenous peoples. They are also essen- Most predictions for the demand for high-quality natural diamonds range from good to very tial for salmon and watershed health, draw optimistic, in part due to the under-investment in exploration in the last decade and the recent tourism from around the world, and hold so or pending closure of key deposits elsewhere, write Graham Pearson, Thomas Stachel, and Opinion much water that they are a line of defence Sasha Wilson. Unsplash photograph by Edgar Soto against increasing forest fires. n the late 1990s Canada went from We must recognize the precious assets I“zero-to-hero” on the stage of global in old-growth and borealis forests that are diamond production—a $17.5-billion per vast positive impact for provinces, territo- Moreover, finely crushed kimberlite has at risk from exploiting Canadian forests. year industry—thanks to the discovery of ries, Indigenous communities, and busi- an appetite for atmospheric carbon dioxide, Timber can be a more sustainable build- major diamond resources in the Northwest nesses. For instance, by 2017, following 20 giving diamond mines an opportunity to off- ing material than concrete or steel, but Territories by Canadian geologists Chuck years of diamond mining activity, the N.W.T. set part of their greenhouse gas emissions. we must be careful about what forests Fipke and Stewart Blusson. government cites some staggering statistics: The Intergovernmental Panel on Climate we use for timber and what practices we Since that time, until the current eco- • $14.6-billion spent by diamond mines Change, which advises the world’s govern- employ to do so. Canada has 10 per cent of nomic crisis, Canada has maintained a on northern business since the incep- ments on climate change mitigation and the world’s forests, a source of enormous position in the top three global diamond tion of diamond mining. adaptation, concluded that all pathways that national pride and economic value—econo- producers in terms of production and • 70 per cent of the total procurement by limit global warming to 1.5 C require on the mists estimate the value of carbon stored value. In 2019, 18.6 million carats were NWT diamond mines was spent with order of 100–1,000 billion tonnes of CO2 to be in Canada’s boreal forest at $3.7-trillion. mined valued at $2.2-billion. local companies. actively removed from the atmosphere within These forests are arguably priceless. The With some of Canada’s mines now • $6.5-billion spent by diamond mines on the 21st century. As such, the rocks produced by Green Party of Canada has called for at in the final stages of production and the northern Indigenous businesses. Canada’s diamond and minerals industries can least half of all boreal forests to be legally world in the grip of a major health and eco- • $324-million spent on northern Indig- be conscripted to help fight climate change. protected and for policies that balance the nomic crisis, what role can diamonds con- enous businesses in 2017 alone. forestry industry with ecological integrity. tinue to play in Canada’s resource sector? This type of investment generated a The future? When we talk about natural resources, surge in the creation of Indigenous compa- especially in the context of the climate Pre-pandemic assessments of supply nies in the N.W.T. and played a fundamen- emergency, we cannot overlook the sec- Why diamonds? Why Canada? versus demand such as that produced by Bain tal role in developing a local highly skilled ond-largest domestic source of greenhouse Despite current market lows, most & Company in 2019 predict that by 2030 there workforce and in establishing a wide- gas emissions: the transport sector. Twen- predictions for the demand for high-quality will be production shortfalls of between 35 spread locally based service sector. These ty-five per cent of Canada’s emissions natural diamonds range from good to very and 75 million carats per year. To put that into developments led to the empowerment of come from our transportation. Greens optimistic, in part due to the under-invest- context, 75 million carats is the entire predicted Indigenous governments and communities, support the sustainable mining of neces- ment in exploration in the last decade and lifetime production of the world-class Fort à providing them with the means to influ- sary materials within our borders with the the recent or pending closure of key depos- la Corne deposit in Saskatchewan. Even if all ence and participate in the development of understanding that we must not exploit its elsewhere. diamond projects currently at advanced stages the region’s natural resources. any more of these resources than is neces- The closure of the Argyle and El- actually become mines, as little as 10 per cent sary, and local mining must be done with lendale mines in Australia, formerly the of this additional demand might be met. accountability and long-term planning for predominant suppliers of pink and yellow What about the environment? There is also a serendipity in mining toxic mine pollution. And while there may diamonds, respectively, means a shortage We must acknowledge, as a resource-based that shouldn’t be overlooked. In 2007, in still be room for increased sustainable of these goods going forward. Canada’s society, that most of our resources come from part due to exploration for diamonds, the mining of these materials, we must also in- Ekati mine in the Lac de Gras region of mining-based activities. That includes the raw world-class Ring of Fire chromium de- crease investment in zero-emissions mass the Northwest Territories supplies some materials needed to harness renewable energy posit—worth upwards of $50-billion—was public transit to minimize the need for yellow stones and they are also evident in such as photovoltaics for solar energy and discovered in northern Ontario. private electric vehicles in the long-term. kimberlites from the De Beers Chidliak new-generation battery storage. There will be continued demand for Public transit is a crucial option for acces- project on Baffin Island, the North Arrow Before a mine is approved, it must also high quality natural diamonds, the ques- sible transport for many communities that Minerals Naujaat project, also in Nunavut, have a detailed closure plan that lays out tion is who will fill that need? There is have been underinvested in for decades, as well as from Star-Orion South mine in how the land will be rehabilitated and the general agreement that the best way of including Indigenous communities, rural Saskatchewan. natural ecosystem restored. meeting these needs is by an industry communities, and for low-income people More tantalizing still is the presence of Diamond mining is among the least operating in a society that is both environ- across the country. so-called “super-deep” diamonds in some environmentally damaging of all types of mentally responsible and upholds ethical Canada is at a crossroads. We can Canadian kimberlites, such as those from mining-based resource extraction, espe- labour practices. Canada is ideally placed continue to invest in and subsidize extrac- Alberta’s Buffalo Hills region. The world’s cially operating within a highly regulated to satisfy these requirements. tive industries, with limited job creation largest and most valuable gem diamonds— country such as Canada. The process uses Graham Pearson is a Canada Excel- and growth potential, or we can embrace a some valued in excess of $50-million— few chemicals, and the byproducts consist lence Research Chair Laureate in Arctic new vision for responsible natural resource come from this category of diamonds. exclusively of the crushed, locally mined Resources at the University of Alberta. stewardship and a sustainable energy rock called kimberlite. Kimberlite is not Thomas Stachel is Canada Research Chair supply. The Green Party has proposed bold Broader economic and societal only sufficiently benign, it is also so rich in Diamonds at the University of Alberta. changes for a better future. That future is in nutrients needed for plant growth that Sasha Wilson is Canada Research Chair in now. gains it has been proposed that diamond mine Biogeochemistry of Sustainable Mineral Annamie Paul is the leader of the Green The socio-economic agreements that wastes could be used as a component of Resources at the University of Alberta. Party of Canada. accompany new mining activity can have a agricultural fertilizers. The Hill Times The Hill Times WEDNESDAY, JUNE 16, 2021 | THE HILL TIMES 25

Policy Briefing Natural Resources O’Regan will need energy to tackle challenges in ‘super-sensitive’ natural resources portfolio

For instance, he explained that sive wildfires and beetle infesta- has concentrated on working with effective, economic way,” Mr. Reid Continued from page 14 replacing natural-gas produc- tions, and to a lesser degree, slash industry and stakeholders, and said. the White House to Michigan, tion in Ontario would require burning associated with logging— building those relationships—and “We used to think of Environ- where they join with Democratic six 15,000-megawatt electricity the latter of which has sparked you see it in some causes that ment’s job as advocating for clean Michigan Governor Gretchen projects, “and every one of those recent protests at Fairy Creek on he is championing more vocally, water and air, and the job of Nat- Whitmer in opposing Line 5. projects will have a serious envi- southern Vancouver Island and re- such as the potential for nuclear ural Resources was to advocate On May 11—a day before she ronmental footprint.” quests to halt old-growth harvesting and SMRs.” for industry. But I don’t think that ordered Calgary-based Enbridge Mr. McLean would rather from First Nations. SMRs, or small modular reac- construct is operable any longer Inc. to shut down its pipeline that focus on “decarbonizing what we On June 9, B.C. Premier John tors, are capable of generating up in a government that committed runs through Michigan to Sarnia, already have,” and referred to Cal- Horgan announced that his gov- to 300 megawatts of electricity itself so clearly to climate action Ont.—the federal government gary-based, oil-and-gas producer, ernment would defer the logging and could replace the need for and a real carbon tax.” filed an amicus curiae (“friend Canadian Natural Resources Ltd., of 2,000 hectares of old-growth installing large diesel-powered “As a consequence, I think of the court”) brief in the U.S. which he said has reduced its forest in the area for two years. generators in remote locations. that increasingly Environment District Court for the Western greenhouse gas emissions by 18 If forestry-related carbon In his speech to the 2020 is going to have to think about District of Michigan in support of per cent over the past four years. emissions were considered, they Canadian Nuclear Association how it tackles emissions targets “continued mediation” between NDP natural resources would have exceeded B.C.’s total conference, Mr. O’Regan said and renewables and support the Enbridge and the state of Michi- critic Richard Cannings (South 2018 emissions by a jolting 249 his government “understands the provinces, and the job of Natural gan, Natural Resources Minister Okanagan –West Kootenay, B.C.) per cent. importance of nuclear energy Resources is going to be how to Seamus O’Regan Jr. (St. John’s said that while Mr. O’Regan is to meeting our climate change best stickhandle and manage that South-Mount Pearl, N.L.) said in a “responsive” to requests from goals,” and “to help northern and massive sector transition.” statement. his New Democrat counterpart, remote areas move off less clean Both departments must col- “Line 5 is essential to our the minister and his department sources of energy, such as diesel.” laborate given the reality that energy security … [and] does not are “unresponsive enough to the “If there is a future for nuclear Canada is also “an energy-produc- just affect one province or one realities of climate action” and the beyond the status quo, it is most ing nation,” said Mr. Reid. “To add region—it supports our entire future of energy use in Canada. likely to be in SMRs,” Mr. Reid a very fine point, it would be the country,” he said. “Their continued promotion said. job and obligation of any federal The pipeline, which transports of pipeline expansion doesn’t government in power in 2021 to about 540,000 barrels of Canadi- match up with industry projec- Opposition critics advocate for Line 5. an crude oil and other petroleum tions that Canadian oil exports Ms. Paul still holds fast that products from Western Canada, will quickly plateau and decrease disagree over who in the green dream of a climate- and supplies about half the fuel in the coming decades,” said Mr. cabinet holds more sway friendly future for Canada is one Cannings, who cited a November that all Parliamentarians share, 2020 report by the Canada En- Though the country needs to curb its on resource issues regardless of their political affili- ergy Regulator that came to that emissions, Canada will still need to Mr. O’Regan was unavailable ation. conclusion. rely on fossil fuels ‘at some level for for an interview. However, opposi- “If we are serious as a coun- the foreseeable future,’ says earth tion MPs weighed in on his place in try about climate action, the use scientist David Hughes, making the the pecking order of government. of fossil fuels for energy has to net-zero emissions-reduction target Bloc Québécois MP Monique decline to such a point where we ‘a fantasy within existing policies.’ Pauzé (Repentigny, Que.), who can mitigate what little use there Photograph courtesy of David Hughes serves as her party’s environment is for them to bring us to net-zero critic, recently told The Hill Times emissions by 2050,” said Mr. Can- that within the federal cabinet, nings. He noted that residential Minister O’Regan ‘reliably the minister of natural resources and commercial buildings release has more clout than the environ- Green Party Leader Annamie Paul says between 25 and 40 per cent of safe hands’ on resources ment minister. But Conservative she wants to see a special committee carbon emissions through such file, says former Liberal MP McLean said he believes of the whole established to examine ways as heating and lighting. it’s the other way around, with Canada’s climate action plan. The Hill “It’s going to cost money and adviser Reid the environment portfolio even Times photograph by Sam Garcia political will to get us there, but Replenishing forests, balanc- eclipsing “finance, which used to we know what we have to do, said ing competing interests in energy be the pinnacle of departments as used in Ontario and Quebec, Mr. Cannings, who worked as a sources and keeping Canada on a far as input on cabinet decision- path to reduce carbon emissions making.” and 55 per cent of Michigan’s biologist prior to his election to Conservative natural resources critic is a formidable task—and one “I think the bureaucrats at statewide propane needs, “is a Parliament in 2015. Greg McLean says he believes the that Mr. O’Regan appears to be Environment and Climate Change critical energy and economic link Industry has to be fully—and environment minister has more clout handling well as natural resourc- Canada are running the shop between Canada and the United properly—on board with Cana- in cabinet than the one in charge of es minister, according to Scott now,” he said, suggesting the States,” Mr. O’Regan said. da’s emissions-reduction strategy, the natural resources portfolio. The Reid, who served as director of department’s influence figures Conservative MP Greg he added. Hill Times photograph by Andrew Meade McLean (Calgary Centre, Alta.), For Ms. Paul, the days of communications to former prime largely in last year’s Throne his party’s natural resources looking to oil and gas to fuel minister Paul Martin, who led the Speech and in this year’s budget. critic, said that Canada faces the Canada’s future are over. But that last Liberal government before Mr. McLean said that envi- If not a special committee of challenge of moving “beyond the sector, which contributed 26 per Mr. Trudeau’s. ronmental focus is also a result the whole to bring the Commons realm of cheap energy in the form cent of Canada’s greenhouse gas Mr. O’Regan is perceived as of Deputy Prime Minister and together to tackle climate change of hydrocarbons,” or fossil fuels, emissions in 2019, is not the only “reliably safe hands” and as not Finance Minister Chrystia Free- on a united front, she reiterated to renewable energy alternatives, culprit in holding back the coun- courting controversy within cabi- land (University-Rosedale, Ont.) to The Hill Times a call made such as wind or solar power, try’s fight against climate change, net. “He’s a strong communicator; “leaning towards the agenda of” during the 2019 federal election which require greater costs to set according to Mr. Hughes. he’s a likeable, personable indi- Environment and Climate Change campaign by her predecessor up and maintain, and will ulti- “Emissions from B.C. forests vidual,” said Mr. Reid, a founding Minister Jonathan Wilkinson and current Green Party par- mately release significant carbon were triple the emissions of Al- partner of strategic communica- (North Vancouver, B.C.) and his liamentary leader in the House, emissions when setting up the berta’s oilsands in 2018,” he said. tions firm, Feschuk Reid, who department “in their disdain for Elizabeth May (Saanich-Gulf required infrastructure. “B.C. forests haven’t stored any worked with Mr. O’Regan on elec- the natural resources industry in Islands, B.C.) to establish a “It takes a lot of financing in net carbon since 2002.” tion coverage when the latter was Canada, and have support from cross-party inner cabinet to deal order to make wind power and According to B.C. government co-host of CTV’s Canada AM and the Prime Minister’s Office.” with the issue. solar power with their backups data, net forest emissions in B.C. has known the minister since he For Mr. O’Regan, “the hard “What we’re missing at the mo- make sense in the real world,” exceeded oilsands emissions in worked as a senior policy adviser work lies ahead in managing the ment is a comprehensive, coher- said Mr. McLean, who prior to 2018 by 183 per cent. and speechwriter in the late 1990s transition for the energy sector in ent plan and vision to get us to a being elected as an MP in 2019 Mr. Hughes explained that West to former Liberal Newfoundland the country and support work- glorious future we could have as spent 20 years in the financial Coast forests have not served as premier Brian Tobin, a former fed- ers through the $17.6-million set a country,” said Ms. Paul, relying industry with regular contact “carbon-emission sinks” for the past eral Liberal cabinet minister. aside in this year’s federal budget on a message oft-used during the with Alberta’s oil-and-gas sec- two decades, the result of global “Seamus has been quiet in the toward a green recovery, and to tor. warming that has generated mas- portfolio, but it appears that he bring renewable energy on in an Continued on page 26 26 THE HILL TIMES | WEDNESDAY, JUNE 16, 2021

Policy Briefing Natural Resources

O’Regan will need energy Ottawa’s fixation with to tackle challenges in trees and climate: what ‘super-sensitive’ natural exactly are we planting? resources portfolio Governments around the world, Canada’s included, Having the Greens on board with the tend to focus narrowly Continued from page 25 government’s climate strategy would pandemic. “It would signal to the public that provide the Liberals with a natural eager on the carbon benefits we’re all in this together.” ally on the environmental file. Could Mr. “We don’t really have time to play any O’Regan make that happen? associated with tree- partisan games with the climate,” she He has a personal pipeline to the planting while largely, or added, noting that is exactly what has prime minister. They are longtime friends, The considerable carbon debits associated with happened with Bill C-12, the Canadian holidaying together at the Aga Khan’s completely, ignoring the wildfires, logging, and wood pellet burning are Net-Zero Emissions Accountability Act, private island, and Mr. O’Regan was in Mr. left largely unaddressed by Ottawa, casting which is now under review by the House Trudeau’s wedding party in 2005. debit side of the ledger. serious doubts on claims that planting two Environment and Sustainable Develop- And in cabinet, Mr. O’Regan holds a billion trees will lower Canada’s greenhouse ment Committee. “super-sensitive” file not seen in the area gas emissions, writes Ben Parfitt.The Hill Times Ms. Paul said the Greens proposed an of natural resources in decades, argues Mr. photograph by Andrew Meade amendment, “identical to a Liberal motion, Reid. Ben which was rejected by the Liberals and the NDP.” In 1980, Mr. Trudeau’s father, Pierre, Parfitt against which its “progress” on climate The Greens’ offering was to set Cana- appointed his longtime trusted advisor change is measured. da’s next emissions-reduction target to 10, and cabinet minister, Marc Lalonde, to Canada is not alone in excising the sub- not five, years. She explained that the NDP take over the helm of energy, mines and Opinion stantial emissions from wildfires from its proposed to change the timeline to “10 resources, a predecessor to today’s Natural official greenhouse gas emissions invento- years plus one day,” and it passed. Resources Canada. “It was the most impor- ries, on grounds that wildfires are largely Ms. Paul said the committee also reject- tant file in the government,” said Mr. Reid. y two significant measures, last year’s beyond its ability to control. But there’s no ed the Green Party’s call to hear from cli- Mr. Lalonde was tasked with instituting the Beffort to plant 300 million tree seed- denying the substantial emissions associ- mate scientists, Indigenous witnesses and National Energy Program with price controls lings in Canada’s most forest-rich province ated with wildfires, and their contribution youth climate activists, further illustrating and taxes on domestic oil production, which was a remarkable achievement. to the unfolding climate crisis. how “partisanship has trumped serious contributed to the Pierre Trudeau-led Liberals Not only was it a record for a single Underscoring the risks associated consideration of climate legislation.” losing popularity in the West. Now the Justin year in British Columbia, but it was with planting trees, some of the federally The then-three Green MPs (there are Trudeau-led Liberals face a similar test with achieved in the early throes of the first funded efforts last year were on forest- now two following the June 11 departure to a climate strategy that includes emissions- lockdown associated with the then rela- lands that had burned only years earlier. the Liberal caucus of Fredericton, N.B., MP reductions milestones impactful on industry— tively new COVID-19 pandemic. Also on the debit side, are forest prod- Jenica Atwin) voted against C-12 at second and a carbon tax. And Mr. O’Regan takes the The planting effort was also notable ucts that are deliberately burned on the reading. Unless significant changes are lead in advancing that agenda. because a tiny percentage of trees planted spurious grounds that wood-burning is a made to the “deeply flawed” and “wholly in- As Mr. Reid explained: “I don’t know were courtesy of the federal government, climate friendly alternative to coal, wood adequate” bill, the caucus will not support it that there is, over the course of this com- which typically doesn’t stray into the pro- being a “renewable resource.” at third reading either, said the Green leader. ing decade, a portfolio that’s more impor- vincial jurisdiction of forest management. In 2021, the Wood Pellet Association of “That is incredibly rare for the Green Party tant than natural resources.” As part of a suite of initiatives charac- Canada published a map showing a total of to vote against any bill related to the climate.” The Hill Times terized as “real solutions to help tackle the 47 wood pellet mills in Canada, 14 of which climate crisis,” the federal government has are in British Columbia, the most of any committed to pay for two billion trees to Canadian province. Most of Canada’s pellets be planted across Canada in 10 years. go to Europe, where companies like Drax Ottawa claims that once those trees are burn them by the millions of tonnes to gen- planted and have grown sufficiently, Can- erate heat and spin turbines. The resulting A life-cycle view ada’s greenhouse gas emissions will be re- electricity is deemed carbon neutral because duced by 12 million tonnes per year by 2050. the trees the pellets originated from will But even at the best of times, such theoretically be replaced by new trees. claims are dubious given the incredibly Canada’s pellet industry initially essential on EV battery dynamic events at play in our forests. emerged to utilize the excess waste wood Governments around the world, chips from sawmills. Canada’s included, tend to focus narrowly But disturbing evidence has emerged of opportunities and risks on the carbon benefits associated with pellet mills using massive amounts of logs tree-planting while largely, or completely, to convert directly to pellets. And that’s ignoring the debit side of the ledger. bad news from a carbon perspective, be- The electrification of transportation This does not mean we shouldn’t plant cause logging results in carbon emissions, Continued from page 23 carries significant potential to reduce trees. But it does mean that if govern- which are only counteracted over time by for waste EV batteries. These make post- greenhouse gas emissions, and the poten- ments want to harness the carbon-storing planted or naturally reseeded trees. consumer management the responsibility tial for the development of new industries potential of trees in their climate action In addition, plans have surfaced to of the manufacturer, providing strong in Canada. However, appropriate regula- plans, they should be compelled to fully build the largest wood pellet mill in Can- incentives for design to facilitate reuse tory frameworks are needed to avoid im- and transparently account for all the ways ada in Fort Nelson B.C.; a mill that would and recycling. portant environmental trade-offs around in which forests and forest products can feed from Day 1 not on “residual” chips The situation in North America is far the process. The development of a national be significant carbon sources. from sawmills, but on whole trees. less advanced. As part of our research, extended producer responsibility regime One of the biggest items on the debit The considerable carbon debits associ- we made inquiries about the status of for end-of-life EV batteries, clarification side of the ledger is wildfires, which ated with wildfires, logging, and wood pel- EV batteries in relation to existing waste of their status under waste management federal scientists long ago predicted will let burning are left largely unaddressed by battery management regimes, and for regulations, and the establishment of basic increase as a result of climate change. In Ottawa, casting serious doubts on claims the purpose of federal, provincial, and reporting requirements regarding their 2017 and 2018, wildfires in British Colum- that planting two billion trees will lower state rules regarding hazardous wastes fate would be important places to start. bia burned the equivalent of two Prince Canada’s greenhouse gas emissions. or recyclable materials, dangerous goods. Mark Winfield is co-chair of the Edward Islands of forest. In the absence of true accounting that The answers throughout Canada and U.S. Sustainable Energy Initiative at York In each of those years, the greenhouse itemizes both the credit and debit sides of were that regulatory regimes for post- University. Sumeet Sooch completed his gas emissions associated with those the forest ledger, Ottawa’s tree-planting ef- consumer management were essentially Master of Environmental Studies Degree wildfires were estimated to be three times forts amount to planting seeds of doubt. non-existent. The same basic answer ap- at the Faculty of Environmental and more than all of the province’s officially Ben Parfitt is a resource policy analyst plied to questions about publicly available Urban Change at York University and is a counted sources combined. Yet, magically with the B.C. office of the Canadian Cen- data on the volume and fate of end-of-life research associate with the Initiative. and conveniently, the wildfire emissions tre for Policy Alternatives. EV batteries. The Hill Times are not part of Canada’s official tally, The Hill Times WEDNESDAY, JUNE 16, 2021 | THE HILL TIMES 27

News

much like to work with that New vision openness and with Public Works and our members to try to come up with some vision of what the building could look like in the future,” Ms. Thompson said. “But for National there are a lot of unknowns in all of that as well. What’s your pre- diction for what the field is going to look like in 10 years?” Press Building Specifics of the agreement will depend on consultations, she noted, but this still stands as an opportunity to envisage what a requested after future National Press Building could look like. But Mr. Quinn isn’t convinced that news organizations will break their long-term leases to years of decline come back, especially when the details of the vision document are yet to be locked down in stone. “The way that Public Works In terms of what could help at- After years of bleeding was handling the rent, the leases, tract and retain tenants, Ms. Wat- they wouldn’t renew them for son said that financial incentives media tenants a very long period. And they should be offered or even event also insisted on having clauses space for specialty shows. due to short-term in leases that said you could be For Allan Thompson who worked leases, rent hikes, asked to leave on … a very short for a decade at The Star’s Parlia- turnaround,” she said. ment Hill bureau, the main concern and limited space, This short period was one of is the future of the Hot Room. the reasons Bloomberg left, she “That is really, really critical Parliamentary Press said, while La Presse left recently that we keep that space, even if because of a “very significant” most news organizations have Gallery members want rent increase. other premises away from Parlia- Joël-Denis Bellavance, La ment Hill. I think there needs to be a new, collaborative Presse’s Ottawa bureau chief, a foothold for journalists,” he said. relationship with the confirmed that this was an issue The Hot Room is expected to along with the issue of short-term return to the Centre Block after building’s federal lease contracts. Though, he noted, The National Press Building in Ottawa has seen busier days, dropping off from renovations are done. PSPC did eventually say the rent its role as a central media hub to a space that is now inhabited by government Mr. Robertson agrees that it’s landlord. increase and reduction of lease officials and a few remaining journalists.The Hill Times photograph by Sam Garcia important for “to have a presence time would be cancelled, this was for media on the Hill.” Continued from page 1 after they had already signed a He said he thought the Press new agreement. tice, implying that this has been a nothing’s broken,” Mr. Quinn said. Building was such an option for have office space in the build- From the media organiza- long-running issue. Still, while the situation isn’t media outlets. ing. The fifth-floor Hot Room, tion’s perspective these types of This has led to the perception, great right now according to “I think a lot of us see a sym- an interim location while Centre changes were “untenable,” Ms. Winnipeg Free Press Ottawa bu- those interviewed, Ms. Thompson bolic importance [in the building] Block is being renovated, mean- Vastel said. reau chief Dylan Robertson said, was optimistic that things would especially at a time when the while houses journalists filing for She did note that some left to that PSPC is trying to convert change in the future, with the un- media is going through so much a few other remaining outlets like merge with sister organizations, the building to a “generic public veiling of a new vision document turbulence,” he said. Blacklocks Reporter, The Chron- like The Toronto Star’s decision servants’ space.” and collaborative relationship Mr. Alboim also said that the icle Herald, and Winnipeg Free to merge offices with its sister While Colette Watson, presi- between the gallery and PSPC. space has significant historical Press, and a few freelancers. publication iPolitics in the By- dent of the Cable Public Affairs In the April 26 gallery execu- meaning, even if the old social Even the oft-frequented bar, a ward Market. Channel, who was in the building hub “disintegrated” over time. part of the National Press Club, prior to 1992, didn’t get this im- Michael Raine, “I think it’s important to is no longer in service after the CPAC president pression, Ms. Vastel said similar Western remind people that journalists group shut its doors back in 2007. Colette Watson things. Producer are part of our system of govern- “It used to be a room where says that the “I don’t know what the motive editor, says ment, we have to be there. And people could buy beer and social- Press Building is, but they can’t pretend that having access so any time there’s a significant ize after a long day’s work or at doesn’t have they don’t know about what the to the Press change to the space that is made lunch,” Marie Vastel, Le Devoir’s enough space consequences of their actions Building available to journalists to do their Ottawa correspondent said. for joint offices. have been.” offers value work, it’s worth asking questions The reasons for the slow Photograph There are also some structural to journalism. about it,” Mr. Thompson said. draining of the building are courtesy of Dan issues with the building. Photograph The question remains then, Ms. manifold, with some external and Vandil Ms. Watson said there wasn’t courtesy of Watson said, of how to preserve the management factors playing into enough space and that the ceil- Michael Raine space and bring it to 2021, but she the current scarcity of journalists. ings were too low. said she sees it more of an auxilia- It’s a longstanding issue, with “The floor plan of one floor ry perk than a need for journalists. the press gallery having sent a isn’t big enough to have your edi- “We’ll figure it out … it’s a nice letter to the federal government torial team and a studio,” she said. tive meeting minutes, the board to have, but we’re very resource- in 2009 to “draw the attention of Greg Quinn, an economy Mr. Bellavance pointed to- said it was encouraged with ful,” she said. the Department to the importance reporter with Market News In- wards things like ugly carpets recent conversations. Specifically, On the other hand, Michael of preserving and promoting ternational who has worked out and a general state of disrepair there was the confirmation of Raine, editor of the Western Pro- the journalistic function” of the of the Press Building, said that with a clear need for a retrofit, future renovations and the ask to ducer, which used to have an office National Press Building and the some of the moves may have been though he did cut the government create a vision document to out- in the top floor of the Press Building neighbouring Booth Building. because of “media convergence.” some slack for the huge portfolio line how the building could meet until 2017, said the building makes a The press gallery executive It’s the idea, he said of putting of buildings it has to take care of. journalist’s needs. difference in the amount of coverage recently discussed the issue at an reporters in the same room for “It was just a standard office This would essentially open available. April 29 meeting, with the minutes “synergies,” hence the need to building from the 1920s or 30s … up discussion and consultation on “You’d be on the Hill often reading that many member organi- consolidate in bigger offices, like it just felt very dated,” said Elly the Press Building, with the press repeatedly and filing and back on zations have left over recent years with the CBC’s decision to move Alboim, former CBC parliamen- gallery as a notable entity in these the Hill, it’s one thing to bring a “because of unreasonable and un- all of its offices into the Sparks tary bureau chief who worked in conversations. While it would be laptop but there’s lots of materi- fair conditions imposed by PSPC.” Street broadcast centre in 2004. the building from 1970 to 1993. broad strokes at first, there would als and things that don’t come In practice, this is because of However, even in 2009, the “I don’t think anything was be the option to add amendments back and forth … there’s a huge issues with rent costs and leases, aforementioned letter made out-and-out completely broken and come to agreements on things amount of value that often trans- said CBC senior reporter Eliza- mention of these lease issues, that I’ve really seen, but that’s a like lease contracts. lates to more stories.” beth Thompson, treasurer for the including the ability to terminate pretty low minimum for a federal “There is an openness at the [email protected] press gallery. contracts with three months no- government building to say that moment, and we would very The Hill Times 28 THE HILL TIMES | WEDNESDAY, JUNE 16, 2021

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“rhetoric” and campaign tactics minister Amarjeet Sohi with were not used, he added. 50 per cent of the vote to the Reflections on anti-Muslim Still, Mr. Achampong said it’s incumbent’s 33 per cent (after Mr. unclear if the party’s past record Sohi took the riding in a nailbiter using rhetoric that targets Muslims, contest in 2015.) directly or indirectly, will plague Jeff Bennett, a former 2014 rhetoric from Tory MPs Mr. O’Toole on the campaign provincial candidate for the trail. The leader should frame his Progressive Conservatives in the outreach efforts as attempting to riding of London-West, Ont., took “publicly make amends” or risk to Facebook on June 8 to detail welcome in wake of London being perceived as “playing into the the subtle instances of hate he media” cycle, he added. encountered while campaigning at “As time goes by and we head the doorstep. From being told by attack, but proof will be on into a campaign, he’s going to try volunteers that the campaign of- and shore up his base, and part of fice from an election before, where that base we know would not be the party stood up Ali Chahbar, happy with some of these ideas, that “felt like the Middle East” to a local campaign trail, say observers Islamophobia is real” and needs to talk radio show where “the word be tackled, the strategist said. Over ‘Sharia’ was tossed around,” Mr. time, as the emotion of the tragedy Bennett wrote he was “partially to in 2017,” she was told that “the that would signal a shift not just fades, he predicted some will return blame” for contributing to a “racist Continued from page 1 term Islamophobia was prob- within the caucus of sitting MPs, to “political positions that are advan- city that pretends it isn’t.” Since the attack, a slow trickle lematic because it had differ- but to party strategists and volun- tageous” to them. of MPs, specifically Conserva- ent mean[ing]s to many.” Upon teers on the ground as well,” said Mr. Achampong said if he Public pressure needed tives, have expressed remorse further reflection now, the MP Ms. Dwivedi. was advising Mr. O’Toole, he’d over their past decisions while in first elected in the fall 2015 vote Mr. O’Toole, who joined MPs urge the leader to “say some- to drive change in office. Conservative MP Michelle added, “I see that the nuance of recently in unanimously support- thing” sooner rather than later, attitude: Bennett Rempel Garner (Calgary Nose the politics behind these motions ing a non-binding NDP motion to strike a reflective tone about Speaking to The Hill Times, Hill, Alta.) appeared to be first was lost, and that the Muslim calling on Ottawa to host an past election campaigns. In the Mr. Bennett said one of the “big- out of the gate, writing in a June community felt I was against emergency summit on Islamopho- CBC interview, Ms. Vecchio was gest challenges” in Canada’s 8 post that one of her “biggest them. I deeply regret this.” As a bia by July’s end (a call initiated asked about critics decrying Mr. business, political, and corporate regrets” was “being silent” on the more “seasoned politician, I would by the National Council of Cana- O’Toole’s leadership campaign worlds is that “too many of our 2015 election campaign trail “on vote in favour of the motion if it dian Muslims), said “all parties slogan from last summer—“Take leaders operate in little circles of the wrongness of the barbaric were brought today.” need to do better” when asked on Back Canada”—as rhetoric that ignorance,” leading to a lack of cultural practices tip line, and June 14 if his party owed an apol- can allow anti-Muslim sentiments understanding and empathy for to fester. She defended the slogan, the proposed niqab ban.” Such CPC MP statements ‘a ogy to the Muslim community others’ experiences. policies were wrong, she added, over its past policies and stances. saying the party was “referring to He pointed to current Ontario noting politicians have for too good first step’: Dwivedi “We have to build trust with more the economy.” PC candidate for London West long debated what a woman Political commentator Supriya and more Canadians before the “I think every single time you and a chief operating officer should wear, or “how those who Dwivedi, a senior counsel with next election, and I’m committed have a slogan, we have to be very with Western University, Paul are oppressed can be protected communications firm Enterprise to do that,” he said, adding he’s cautious because there’s going Paolatto, who tweeted on June 9 from themselves, as opposed to Canada, said such reflections are “proud” of his MPs for “reaching to be lots of individuals that are he “took exception to anyone who enacting real change.” a “good first step” that should be out” to the community. going to take that and that they’re … characterizes the entire city of Conservative MP Tim Uppal encouraged, but it boils down It’s a reality Kofi Achampong, going to twist it. Let’s not kid #LdnOnt, my city, as a racist city.” (Edmonton Mill Woods, Alta.), to the obvious question of “now who has advised several Liberal ourselves. When we have political Amid public backlash, Mr. Paolat- then-minister of state for multi- what?” Ontario cabinet ministers in the foes, they like to take anything to on June 13 said it was “clear” culturalism, was the spokesper- “Words are good but actions past, said he can’t appear to and twist it,” she said. his comments “hurt people” and son for the proposed bill to ban are obviously better,” said Ms. “divorce” himself from. “There According to Najib Jutt, an said he didn’t intend to “deny or women from wearing the niqab Dwivedi, adding MPs should are many folks in and around the Edmonton-based political strate- diminish the lived experiences of during an oath of citizenship—a show that action “ideally not too Conservative caucus in particular, gist with Statecraft Partners with racialized Londoners.” He invited move he admitted in a June 13 far down the road, because we’re as well as some within the Bloc, expertise in communications and those “troubled” by his comments Facebook post “alienated Muslim in the throes of this national who hold certain sentiments that branding for political campaigns, “to meet so that I can hear you Canadians and contributed to the tragedy.” indicate they don’t really under- “that’s a bunch of horse shit.” and better understand how we get growing problem of Islamophobia In an interview last week, stand or appreciate the singling “You know a lot of thought, to a better place.” in Canada.” That followed after before Mr. Uppal released his out of Islamaphobia as a genuine especially for a major message like “Yes, it’s not a racist city, to he spent “considerably more time statement, Ms. Dwivedi said and unique threat to the Muslim that, has gone into it. They definitely him,” said Mr. Bennett. “He doesn’t [since the campaign] talking to she didn’t expect other MPs to community,” he said. understand all the double entendres see it … you don’t see it because Canadians outside of the partisan reflect on their roles given how That some are coming out now and suggestions,” said Mr. Jutt, not- it’s not in your face … you can’t political bubble,” he added, noting much time had passed since the “is a sign of progress,” but it is not ing parties vigorously and frequent- relate, but for millions of people, he should have used his “seat at attack. The Hill Times reached lost on him that “there is poten- ly focus-test their messaging with this is a daily reality, and I think the table to push against divisive- out to the more than 60 MPs tially a campaign on the horizon” their base ahead of elections. that’s a major problem.” ness that promoted the notion of who voted against M-103, and amid the minority Parliament, It’s “deceptive” to try and plead He said he hopes to see more the other.” (The bill hit the floor of still have a seat in the House, but which could fall at any time. ignorance, especially “coming on politicians come out and try to the House in the dying hours of few responded. Those who voted the heels of slogans like ‘Make reconcile with their past, which st America Great Again.’ That’s what the 41 Parliament, introduced at against the motion were mostly As leader, O’Toole’s “the public has to push first,” as first reading on June 19, 2015.) Conservative, with five from the you’re trying to leverage,” he said. public pressure could “nudge” Days before Mr. Uppal’s Bloc Québécois caucus. outreach should That was an example of “irrespon- them to do so. That’s in part why remarks, local Conservative MP But, she said it helps when ‘publicly make amends’: sible campaigning and we need he’s been fielding media requests Karen Vecchio (Elgin-Middlesex- established politicians make their to call it out and show people it’s after his post took off on social London, Ont.) told CBC News she regret public. Achampong intentional,” he added. media. “I think we need to keep regretted not voting for a 2017 “When you have somebody Mr. Achampong added the Mr. Jutt noted only some these realities in the media and at Liberal motion, M-103, which that has the respect and the recent public statements from MPs have offered public reflec- the forefront … I don’t think it’s condemned Islamophobia. At the standing within the party, the way some within the Conservative tion, often ranking among the going to be internal reflections time, the party argued the term Ms. Rempel Garner does, I think caucus could signal “an effort to more well-known and veteran from the politicians that’s going was unclearly defined and coun- it opens the door for other MPs or try to rebrand [the party] a little politicians. “They feel like they’re to drive [this reckoning].” tered with its own motion that hopeful MPs to voice their view of bit with Mr. O’Toole,” who has extremely popular so they can be Mr. Bennett, who said he does called on the feds to “condemn how their past actions could have multiple links to the Harper era vulnerable. And nowadays, being not plan on running for office all forms of systemic racism, reli- contributed to some of the latent and himself briefly served as ‘vulnerable’ also wins you some again, agreed that from a strate- gious intolerance, and discrimina- and not so latent Islamophobia minister during that time. But it favour; every politician is trying gic standpoint, Mr. O’Toole pub- tion of Muslims, Jews, Christians, that exists in this country,” she is too early to evaluate how that to be authentic,” he said. licly reflecting on his past would Sikhs, Hindus, and other religious said. rebranding strategy squares up, The thrice-elected Ms. Rempel help him appear more authentic communities.” Ms. Vecchio admit- Ultimately, such sentiments he said, adding many are rightly Garner handily took her rid- to voters. “All of our politicians ted a vote on that motion did not “need to come from” Conservative wondering about the “genuine- ing again in 2019, with nearly are so fearful of being themselves, preclude her from voting on the Leader Erin O’Toole (Durham, ness” of the statements as MPs 70 per cent of the vote to the and they’re lost in this zone Liberal one. Ont.), which would “go a very “are only coming out because of Liberal challenger’s 15 per cent. between their true authentic self In a June 10 email to The Hill long way” given he, a leader- this particular episode.” The party The twice-elected Ms. Vecchio and their politician self,” he said. Times, Conservative MP Marilyn ship contender at the time, voted would be in a better position to be took her riding by 50 per cent to “That’s not where this reflection Gladu (Sarnia-Lambton, Ont.) against M-103 too. “The leader trusted if it had multiple elections the Liberals’ 23 per cent, while is going to happen.” said as “a relatively new MP is the leader. Him signalling under its belt where unwelcoming Mr. Uppal bested then-cabinet The Hill Times WEDNESDAY, JUNE 16, 2021 | THE HILL TIMES 29

News

Prime Minister Justin Trudeau is pictured with U.K. Canada can Prime Minister Boris Johnson on June 11 during the G7 Summit in Cornwall, England. Mr. Johnson do more to wants the world vaccinated by the end of 2022. No. 10 Downing Street photograph by boost global Andrew Parsons vaccination

rates, say far more vaccines than we need While welcoming the “gener- able so there is less opportunity for our country,” he said. ous” commitment of the G7, WHO for the virus to mutate,” she said. While Canada had made “sig- Director-General Tedros Adhanom She said Canada needs to nificant contributions” towards Ghebreyesus said more vaccines are address an intellectual property global vaccine access, Mr. Moyer needed and they are needed quickly. waiver, which could potentially said the world is a “far cry” from “We are in the race of our lives, increase vaccine productions. advocates, getting vaccines to everybody. but it’s not a fair race, and most Despite the U.S. announcing in “We’re glad to see Canada’s countries have barely left the May that it was supporting a World engagement and contributions starting line,” he told the G7 on Trade Organization’s Council for of, as it’s packaged, 100 million June 12, adding that the short term Trade-Related Aspects of Intellectual doses, but the fact is we need goal is to vaccinate 10 per cent of Property Rights (TRIPS) waiver that more and the world needs more,” every country by September and was originally jointly forwarded by despite G7 he said. “[We] certainly believe the 40 per cent by the end of 2021. India and South Africa last October, G7 was a missed opportunity to “To truly end the pandemic, our Canada has yet to say whether it do even more and [we] are hope- goal must be to vaccinate at least 70 would support or reject the idea. ful that more is yet to come from per cent of the world’s population Ms. McPherson said Canada the world’s leaders. by the time you meet again in Ger- has lost eight months of “opportu- pledge Mr. Moyer said that to avert the many next year. This can be done nity” due to delaying a decision on worst outcome, political leaders with the support of the G7 and G20, the TRIPS waiver. in Canada and around the world together,” Dr. Tedros said. “To do that, Stuart Trew, the Canadian Cen- “We have been very clear that need to “invest early and upfront.” we need 11 billion doses.” tre for Policy Alternatives’ senior Canada’s pledge of as excess doses are available we “If the world continues to drag Ms. Gould told the CBC that with trade researcher, said that the would be donating them,” Ms. its feet, then we will have the long more vaccines becoming available vaccine pledge won’t take those 100-million vaccine Gould said. “These 13 million drawn-out version of this crisis in Canada, there is “very much a pos- countries who have not supported would be excess to the needs that that continues on for many years sibility” that Canada will be donating the waiver “off the hot seat.” doses won’t come we have in Canada right now.” to come,” he said. “even more vaccines” in the future. “There’s a lot of pressure on at the expense of Mr. Trudeau has said the Julia Anderson, CEO of the NDP MP Heather McPherson these countries,” he said. “They pledge won’t affect the domestic Canadian Partnership for Women (Edmonton Strathcona, Alta.), her are all more or less opposed to its domestic supply. supply of vaccines. and Children’s Health (Can- party’s international development the idea. And so what do they do? According to an Angus Reid WaCH), said it is unknown what critic, called the G7 pledge “disap- They announce a billion vaccines ‘Canadians may Institute online poll, 72 per cent of impact the pledge will have. pointing.” instead. It’s nowhere near what’s Canadian respondents said they “We don’t have the manufac- “I’m happy it was on the needed, but it does create a bit of a switch from vaccine want to see domestic vaccinations turing capacity. Health systems agenda. I’m happy they were talk- splash. If they were really serious envy to vaccine guilt,’ finish before shifting to focus are not strong enough to deliver ing about it. … But it is incredibly about vaccinating the world, they on at-risk locations around the the current vaccines we have that disappointing. The announce- would be getting out of the way.” says Nicolas Moyer. world. meaningfully gets them from ments do not address the urgency He said the commitment at the Nicolas Moyer, president of vaccines being produced into vac- that the crisis demands,” she said. G7 was a “poor showing” and a Cooperation Canada, said Canada cination going into arms. We don’t “We still have no plan to get “drop in the bucket.” Continued from page 1 needs to do more to help the have the world trade system that doses to people urgently. It’s the “Most of these countries are global vaccine push. allows for the rapid reduction of urgency that is going to save us. It still interfering with [TRIPS waiv- million vaccines, with 13 million “It’s going to be increasingly trade barriers that would allow is the speed that will save us from er] efforts at the WTO,” he said. surplus doses and the procure- untenable to say that we’ve vacci- us to increase production capac- variants developing,” Ms. McPher- “We need to take seriously the ment of 87 million doses through nated 12-year-olds in Canada, but ity that makes sense,” she said. son said. “The fact that it is too need for rapid technology transfer, previous contributions to the that frontline workers in other “There’s so many pieces of this slow, it is too little, it is too late, is which has been part of the whole World Health Organization’s countries still haven’t had a vac- script that we just don’t have.” of course a problem.” TRIPS waiver discussion.” ACT-Accelerator. The surplus cine,” he said. “People understand Ms. Anderson said Canadians She said Canada needs to view Mr. Moyer said there needs to doses were purchased through vaccine equity. We were con- have an interest in helping to vac- the pandemic globally. be a plan to both bolster vaccine COVAX and will be returned cerned in Canada about getting cinate the world to stop variants “The challenges facing human- production around the world and to the program. According to access to the vaccine in the first coming into this country. ity are global in nature now. They to provide for the increased distri- a Canadian Press report, they place, but I have reason to believe “This is an opportunity for are not national,” she said, adding bution of vaccines. include more than seven million that Canadians may switch from the overall G7 to make a case that, at this point, the government “We really should take a position Novavax doses, which has yet to vaccine envy to vaccine guilt in for global solidarity that is not a doesn’t have a capacity to think and we should take a position in be approved in Canada, as well the face of how many people so charitable case,” she said. “This is in a global manner and beyond support of the TRIPS waiver,” he said. as Johnson and Johnson and desperately need this vaccine not about helping poor countries. the political realities in Canada. “It’s hard to understand why that de- AstraZeneca. around the globe.” This is about solving a collective “We need to make sure that cision hasn’t been made because it’s International Development “I certainly understand why the action challenge that Canadians there are vaccines [around the really not a financial cost to Canada Minister Karina Gould (Burl- Canadian government has chosen need us to solve.” world] through sharing our stock, and it’s really one that seems like ington, Ont.) told the CBC that to prioritize Canadians’ access to She noted that the G7’s lan- through intellectual property an obvious decision to make, given “closer” to four million vaccines vaccines first—any government guage was more “morally focused” waivers, through ramping up 100 countries around the globe have will be shared “immediately.” She has a responsibility to protect its and “charitably focused,” but she manufacturing. All of these things already supported this waiver.” noted that providing vaccines will own citizens first. But we’ve really said that’s not what the current need to happen so that more vac- [email protected] be “contingent” on production. reached a point that we’ve bought moment calls for. cines are getting out to the vulner- The Hill Times 30 THE HILL TIMES | WEDNESDAY, JUNE 16, 2021

Laura Ryckewaert News Hill Climbers

Chief Reginald Change is the Bellerose. Photograph New caucus services, courtesy of word: Meet Facebook communications heads the seven candidates tapped for the LRB Members of the Liberal announced his intent to run for AFN national caucus are pictured during for AFN chief at the Federation of Sovereign Indig- the party's January 2020 enous Nations’ spring assembly in late May. winter caucus meeting. The “It’s a very critical time and the most im- LRB's new communications national chief portant thing is we need to unify our chiefs. director, Cole Davidson, is We need to find one agenda. We need to pictured top left; Tina Derak, have a unified vision,” he said in announc- Ontario regional adviser, ing his official candidacy on June 3. bottom left; Mike Cavanaugh, Continued from page 12 The FSIN has endorsed his bid for AFN top right; and Matthew national chief. Mr. Bellerose, who (like Mr. Kirkeby, special assistant Association. In 2019, she published her first Bellegarde) comes from Little Black Bear for research, is bottom right. book, Strengthening Canadian Indigenous First Nation in Saskatchewan, is also a The Hill Times photograph by Relations and Decision-Making Processes. former chair of the Saskatchewan Gaming Andrew Meade and photographs Long involved at the community level, Authority. courtesy of LinkedIn in recent years, she told The Hill Times, In an interview with The Toronto Star, she’s found herself “gravitating more and he spoke of his desire to “focus on jurisdic- more towards national issues involving tion and rights, economic sovereignty, and ulie Dewolfe marked her last day as di- sistant to Ontario Liberal MP Bryan May, racism: racism with justice, racism with health and wellness.” Jrector of caucus services and operations and before then spent two years working health care.” After contemplating a run for in the Liberal research bureau on June 11, in then-Ontario premier Kathleen Wynne’s Member of Parliament—which she ruled and soon, Linda Campbell will join the of- office, starting as an intern over the sum- RoseAnne Archibald (Ontario) fice to replace her. mer of 2013, after which he was hired on as Cathy Martin. Ontario Regional Chief RoseAnne Also known as the LRB, the bureau is over- a social media co-ordinator. He ended his Photograph Archibald ends her first term as a regional all run by managing director Melissa Cotton, time in the premier’s office with the title of courtesy of chief this year. Elected in 2018, she’s the and supports all Liberal MPs, helping to pro- special assistant for digital media. Dolly Martin, first woman to hold the role. vide communications products, bill kits, and Ms. Lee has been working in the LRB Listuguj A former chief of Taykwa Tagamou other research. For 2021-22, it was allocated a since 2017 and has been its head of com- Mi’gmaq First Nation, her home community, Ms. budget of $3,118,840. munications since August 2020. Nation Archibald has also served as deputy grand Ms. Dewolfe had been head of caucus ser- Stay tuned to Hill Climbers for an chief for the Nishnawbe Aski Nation and vices and operations in the LRB since March update on what Mr. Davidson’s exit means as grand chief of the Mushkegowuk Coun- 2016. Before then, she’d been working at for the health minister’s team. cil. Queen’s Park, including as a communications Tina Derak joined the LRB last month as She launched her campaign in May, adviser to Bob Chiarelli during his turn as its new regional affairs adviser for Ontario. saying she, “like so many,” believes “it’s time minister of energy, and as a special assistant She fills a void left by Stephanie Claxton, who for real and evolutionary changes within to the Ontario Liberal MPP during his time recently left to do the same for Ms. Hajdu. the AFN.” as minister of infrastructure and transporta- Ms. Derak is a recent graduate of Queen’s out, as she doesn’t speak French—she talk- tion. She also spent a few months as a special University, where she earned a bachelor’s ed to other chiefs, and last year, decided to Chief assistant in then-Ontario premier Dalton Mc- degree in political science and government. run for national chief of the AFN. RoseAnne Guinty’s office before joining Mr. Chiarelli’s She’s previously volunteered for the Liberal Ms. Martin said her top priority would Archibald. infrastructure team at the end of 2012. Party, including on Kingston and the Islands, be to target the “macro-umbrella of sys- Screenshot Ms. Campbell starts work in the LRB on Ont., Liberal MP Mark Gerretsen’s success- temic racism,” and within that, community courtesy of June 21, joining straight from Heritage Min- ful 2019 re-election campaign. wellness, with a “dream that First Nations Facebook ister Steven Guilbeault’s office, where she’s Special assistant for research Mike Cava- people will once again be first.” been serving as director of operations and naugh bid the LRB farewell in May and has “When we look at underfunded pro- outreach since January 2020. since started on the job as manager of field grams, when we look at the justice system, She’s been working on the Hill since organization for the Ontario Liberal Party, as when we look at the health-care system shortly after the 2015 election, spending her noted on his LinkedIn profile. and the treatment of our people—it all first two years here as a legislative assistant Another former Gerretsen volunteer, Mr. stems from systemic racism,” she said. “It is time for the right woman to be to B.C. Liberal MP Joyce Murray. In the fall Cavanaugh first began working on the Hill one Ms. Martin said chiefs she’s spoken to the national chief, and it is not just about of 2017, she moved over to then-small busi- year ago, fresh from Queen’s University, where have raised concerns that “when you start gender, it is about the approach,” she said ness and tourism minister Bardish Chag- he studied for a bachelor’s degree in political turning the AFN into a legislative body, in her announcement. “I believe the healing ger’s office as a policy and Western and science and government. He started out as you’re going to start losing some of your and strengthening of our nations will hap- Northern regional affairs adviser. After the an assistant to Liberal MP Sonia Sidhu and autonomy as an individual First Nation.” pen when actions are taken as a result of July 2018 cabinet shuffle that saw Mary Ng moved over to the LRB last November. In turn, she wants to bring the AFN back women’s voices being heard, understood, take over the rejigged small business and Already, Matthew Kirkeby has been to its original charter: “We should respect and respected. I am committed to address- export promotion portfolio (international hired to replace him as a special assistant the chiefs for each individual nation and ing the calls for transparency and account- trade has since been added), Ms. Campbell for research. Mr. Kirkeby—another class allow them to make the decisions for their ability of the AFN, while also addressing stayed on, adding senior to her title. of 2020 political studies grad from Queen’s nation. I think at the regional and national issues related to gender-based discrimina- Along with Ms. Campbell’s addition, University—has spent the last seven level, it [the AFN] should remain an advo- tion and lateral violence.” Dylan Bissonnette, who’s been a training and months as a platforms support agent with cacy [organization], unless there’s an issue Ms. Archibald also spoke of the impor- policy adviser in the LRB since 2017, has been Data Sciences. He previously interned in that addresses everyone,” like residential tance of First Nations rights recognition promoted to manager of caucus services. He’s the LRB over the summer of 2019, with his school compensation, in which case the and her plans, if elected, to create a na- also a former assistant to Liberal MP Francis work focused on outreach, and went on to AFN should work “by consensus.” tional consensus-based agenda for action, Scarpaleggia, who has served as the party’s work for the federal Liberal Party leading Ms. Martin also wants to extend the draft updated protocols for consultation national caucus chair since 2011. into the October 2019 election. While at AFN’s membership to traditional chiefs. and the co-development of legislation, and The LRB’s director of communications, Queen’s, he served as communications di- “I equate it to sweetgrass,” she said. have “community-driven solutions that feed Allie Lee, started parental leave last week and rector for the university’s Liberal associa- “Like sweetgrass, we all come from the into regional approaches that then form a has been replaced by Cole Davidson, who’s tion. He’s also been a volunteer instructor same land, yet when we braid sweetgrass national response,” among other things. spent the last year and a half as press secretary with the Royal Canadian Army Cadets, as … it creates strength, not only physical Ms. Archibald faced allegations of to Health Minister Patty Hajdu. noted on his LinkedIn profile. strength but spiritual strength.” harassment related to her role as regional It’s a return to the research bureau for Wrapping up recent LRB staffing news chief earlier this year, which she has Mr. Davidson, who previously worked is special assistant Elisabeth Paul’s recent Reginald Bellerose disputed. She has criticized the AFN’s there as a communications adviser from exit. As reported by Hill Climbers last week, investigation process as unfair and “riddled September 2017 until he joined Ms. Hajdu’s Ms. Paul is now a special assistant for ap- (Saskatchewan) with conflicts of interest.” office at the beginning of 2020. pointments in the Prime Minister’s Office. Chief of the Muskowekwan First Nation [email protected] Mr. Davidson first began working on [email protected] for almost two decades, Reginald Bellerose The Hill Times the Hill after the 2015 election as an as- The Hill Times WEDNESDAY, JUNE 16, 2021 | THE HILL TIMES 31

Laura Ryckewaert Hill Climbers

Minister Gould hosts conference on Venezuelan refugees and migrants on June 17

International Development Minister Karina Gould will host a high- level International Donors’ Conference in Solidarity with Venezuelan Refugees and Migrants in collaboration with UNHCR, the UN Refugee Agency, and the International Organization for Migration, on Thursday, June 17. The Hill Times photograph by Andrew Meade

WEDNESDAY, JUNE 16 7-9 p.m. ET. Tickets available through and Mail‘s Asia correspondent, who University of Ottawa professor Colleen Gazan will take part in a webinar: Eventbrite. will discuss the changes that Xi Jinping Flood will discuss her recent IRPP study “Guaranteed Liveable Income: House Sitting—The House is has introduced in China, and what on the potential advantages of cash-for- Pathways towards a just transition,” sitting in a hybrid format during the THURSDAY, JUNE 17 these mean for the country and its care benefits for improving long-term hosted by The Jesuit Forum for Social pandemic, with most MPs connecting neighbours in the region, based on care in Canada. She will be joined by Ito Faith and Justice. Other participants International Donors’ Conference in remotely. It’s scheduled to sit every his eight years based in the region. Peng, professor of sociology and public include Jessie Golem, a recipient and Solidarity with Venezuelan Refugees and weekday until Wednesday, June 23, Thursday, June 17, 7 p.m. Register via policy, University of Toronto; and Isobel facilitator of the Ontario Guaranteed Migrants—International Development and will then break for three months, Eventbrite. Mackenzie, seniors advocate of British Livable Income Pilot Project; Dr. Ev- Minister Karina Gould will host a high- until Monday, Sept. 20. In the fall and International Solidarity Now—The Columbia. Monday, June 21, 3-4:15 elyn Forget, professor of economics at level International Donors’ Conference winter, the House is scheduled to sit Canadian Foreign Policy Institute hosts p.m. Register at irpp.org. University of Manitoba Medical School in Solidarity with Venezuelan Refugees for 11 weeks over September, October, “International Solidarity Now: A gather- and author; and Sr. Elizabeth Davis and Migrants in collaboration with UN- November, and December. It will sit ing for a more just Canadian foreign RSM Th.D., Congregational Leader HCR, the UN Refugee Agency, and the MONDAY, JUNE 21— Sept. 20-Oct. 8; Oct. 18-Nov. 5; and policy,” a virtual event featuring pre- of the Sisters of Mercy, and former International Organization for Migration WEDNESDAY, JUNE 23 Nov. 15-Dec. 17. sentations from organizations including commissioner of the Royal Commis- on Thursday, June 17. Memory Institutions as Equitable, Di- COVID-19’s Impact on Canada: Our MiningWatch, Project Ploughshares, sion on Renewing and Strengthening After the Islamic Republic: Demo- verse and Inclusive Places—Library and Post-Pandemic Reality—A webinar and Canadians for Justice and Peace Newfoundland and Labrador’s Place in

Parliamentary Calendar Parliamentary cratic Solutions for the Iranian People— Archives Canada hosts the third edition discussion with Paul Smetanin, in the Middle East highlighting how Canada. Tuesday, June 22, 5-7 p.m. The Macdonald-Laurier Institute of the LAC Forum with University president of the Canadian Centre for they are helping to build a more just Register via Eventbrite. hosts a webinar on “After the Islamic Partners: “Memory Institutions as Eq- Economic Analysis (CANCEA), will Canadian foreign policy. Thursday, June Republic: Democratic Solutions for the uitable, Diverse and Inclusive Places.” happen on June 16, 2021, at 12 noon 17, 7 p.m. Register at foreignpolicy.ca/ Iranian People,” a discussion about LAC’s university partners and a wide WEDNESDAY, JUNE 23 to 1 p.m. Join grassroots and CANCEA gathering. for a webinar discussion on the con- recent efforts by dissidents and Iranian range of participants will discuss the Breathing Easier—The Canadian society at large to articulate unified question of equity, diversity and inclu- Lung Association and Abacus Data sequences and impact COVID-19 will FRIDAY, JUNE 18 have on Canadian society. Topics will demands for the peaceful transition sion, including current EDI issues and invite you to a panel discussion to include: rise in mental health issues, to democracy. Panellists will discuss International Finance as a Key to challenges facing libraries, archives address the growing concern of air implications of working from home; the path forward, and whether a return Fight Climate Change—The Montreal and museums. Register by June 20 at quality and climate on the health of latent financial distress. Please visit to a dovish approach to Iran—as the Council on Foreign Relations hosts a bac-lac.gc.ca. Canadians. The event will present new the Zoom event page to register. Don’t U.S. Biden administration appears to French-language discussion on the polling data on the impacts on lung wait – space is limited! prefer—is actually in the best interests global economy with Mark Carney, UN TUESDAY, JUNE 22 health and what Canadian’s feel is of the Iranian people. Thursday, June Special Envoy on Climate Action and important to make a difference. A dis- Global Vaccine Inequity: A Tale of Finding the Right Balance: Equaliza- 17, 11 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. Register at Finance Vice-Chair and Head of ESG tinguished panel of experts across a Two Pandemics—The Group of 78 hosts tion in Canada—The University of The Parliamen- macdonaldlaurier.ca. and Impact Fund Investing, Brookfield variety of fields and industries will a webinar, “Global Vaccine Inequity: Saskatchewan hosts a webinar on tary Calendar is Asset Management. Friday, June 18, discuss how we can move the dial A Tale of Two Pandemics.” Dr. Peter Lessons Learned From COVID-19— “Finding the Right Balance: Equaliza- a free events list- 12-12:30 p.m. Register by June 17 at to create real change for a Canada Singer, special adviser to the Director The Canadian Medical Association tion in Canada,” a panel discussion on ing. Send in your corim.qc.ca. where we can all breathe with ease. General, Dr. Tedros Adhanom Ghebr- hosts a webinar, “Lessons Learned the history, formula, and policy around political, cultural, June 23, at 12 p.m. EST. To register eyesus, and assistant director general From COVID-19: How Do We Close Canada’s equalization plan. Partici- diplomatic, or of the World Health Organization, Canada’s Health Gap?” Former federal MONDAY, JUNE 21 for the free event go to: https:// governmental pants include Mary Janigan, journalist, will discuss how COVID-19 vaccine health minister Dr. Jane Philpott will Canada’s Foreign Policy Priorities— us02web.zoom.us/webinar/register/ event in a para- historian, author of The Art of Sharing: sustainable equity and regional security explore the lessons learned—both good WN_f_Dcei0uTHivgVeFfNxrgw graph with all the Foreign Affairs Minister Marc Garneau The Richer versus the Poorer Provinces will depend on domestic production and bad—from the pandemic. She will relevant details will take part in a French-language since Confederation; Haizhen Mou, be joined by palliative care physi- THURSDAY, JUNE 24 under the subject supported by sharing of technology, discussion on “Canada’s Foreign Policy professor at the Johnson Shoyama cian Dr. Naheed Dosani and patient line ‘Parliamen- know-how, and intellectual property. Priorities” in a webinar hosted by the Graduate School of Public Policy; and A Conversation with Stephanie tary Calendar’ Wednesday, June 16, 2-3 p.m. Register advocate Nicole Nickerson for a panel Montreal Council on Foreign Relations. Trevor Tombe, associate professor of Kusie—Conservative Shadow Minister to news@ at group78.org. discussion on how to ensure health eq- Monday, June 21, 12-12:30 p.m. economics, University of Calgary, and for Transport Stephanie Kusie will hilltimes.com by Voices For Peace 2021—NDP MP uity for all Canadians. Thursday, June Register at corim.qc.ca. research fellow at The School of Public discuss the current status of the Wednesday at Leah Gazan will explore Canada’s 17, 6-8:30 p.m. Registration available Filling Gaps in Canada’s Ailing Long- Policy. Tuesday, June 22, 10:30 a.m. regional transportation sector and the noon before the response since the Truth and Recon- at cma.ca. Term Care System with Cash-For-Care to noon, CST. Register at schoolofpub- potential issues affecting businesses Monday paper or ciliation Commission published its Recent Changes in China—The Ca- Benefits—The Institute for Research on licpolicy.sk.ca. in a webinar hosted by the Halifax by Friday at noon report, part of a webinar “Voices for nadian International Council’s National Public Policy hosts a webinar on “Filling Guaranteed Liveable Income: Path- Chamber of Commerce. Thursday, June for the Wednes- Peace 2021—Radical Hope, Radical Capital Branch hosts a conversation Gaps in Canada’s Ailing Long-Term Care ways Towards A Just Transition—ISG 24, 2-3 p.m. AT. Register at business. day paper. Resistance.” Wednesday, June 16, with Nathan VanderKlippe, the Globe System with Cash-For-Care Benefits.” Senator Kim Pate and NDP MP Leah halifaxchamber.com. POST-COVID THE ROADMAP TO

RECOVERYPOLICY BRIEFING

ISSUE #1: HEALTH, INNOVATION & TECHNOLOGIES, July 12 What innovative ideas and technologies in health, biotech, and mental health were developed during the COVID crisis and will continue beyond the pandemic? Was government funding spent wisely?

ISSUE #2: INFRASTRUCTURE FOR REBUILDING, August 25 COVID showed us the divide between rural and urban connectivity for business, education, and online learning. Where are we with increased rural broadband? The crisis is changing the way we travel, recreate, and work. Is it a time for make-work projects or major legacy projects for Canada? High-speed rail? Highways? Ports and airports? Pipelines? Transit?

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