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QUARTERLY MAGAZINE DECEMBER 2018

Governor General on exploring — and space Bank of ‘this one’s on me.’

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APPROVALS PRODUCTION PATRICIA LACROIX INSERTION TYPE ---

COMMENTS SPECS INSERTION DATE --- CONTENTS DECEMBER 2018 | HOLIDAY SEASON

Christmas dinner: Cooking with cannabis 9

Governor General Julie Payette on exploring Canada — and space 1

Gifts from the leaders 10

Books for the political iPolitics 2018 junkie on your list 7 Naughty or Nice 19 CONTENTS

PUBLISHER Alexandria Shannon

DEPUTY PUBLISHER Heather Bakken

EDITORS Letter to Santa Catharine Fulton 12 Larissa Liepins Marco Vigliotti

WRITERS Kelsey Johnson Holly Lake Kady O’Malley Charlie Pinkerton Christmas fashion ... Marieke Walsh and a few faux pas CONTRIBUTORS 14 Chloe E. Girvan L. Ian MacDonald

PHOTOGRAPHER Matthew Usherwood

DIGITAL & DESIGN Sarah West The holiday songs BUSINESS TEAM you love to hate Adam Burnett 25 John Butterfield Emily Emberson Callie Sanderson

IPOLITICSINTEL Marguerite Marlin (Editor) Savannah Awde Rafaa Chehoudi Sam Chilton Merry mixing: Felixe Denson Brendan Edge holiday drink guide Rachel Emmanuel 26 Dana Hatherly Lisa Johnson Albert Kaprielian Anik Laferriere Codie Mitchell Sarah Nixon Christian Paas-Lang Curtis Rafter Madison Ranta Christmas season Vincent Rocheleau Kevin Smith on the Hill 31 201-17 York Street Ottawa, ON K1N 5S7 Canada Office: 613-789-2772 .ca | [email protected] iPolitics is Canada’s top digital source for independent, up-to-the-minute coverage of Canadian politics and the business of iPolitics 2018 Quiz government. 34 Chloe Girvan - GG Interview

Photo: Sgt Johanie Maheu, Rideau Hall © OSGG-BSGG, 2017

All the articles and folding chairs surrounding a worn Governor General YouTube videos in the world could wooden desk. not have prepared this writer for She is warm, soft-spoken and a Julie Payette on meeting Governor General Julie natural storyteller who frequently Payette in person. punctuates her answers with exploring Canada Inside an empty yoga studio at questions like, “Would you like me Ottawa’s Southminster United to tell you more?” — and space Church, which was borrowed Before becoming Canada’s 29th for the interview, Payette blends Governor General in October BY CHLOE E. GIRVAN in easily with other enthusiastic 2017, Payette built an impressive supporters of the local arts scene. career as an engineer, computer Here tonight for a concert by scientist, and military jet captain. the Ottawa Baroque Consort She was also the first Canadian — featuring fellow soprano female astronaut to board the Ellen McAteer, who recently International Space Station. accompanied her as a delegate on a trip to Africa — Payette For her, the decision to accept the tucks herself into one of the Governor General appointment

DECEMBER 2018 IPOLITICS MAGAZINE 1 GOVERNOR GENERAL JULIE PAYETTE ON EXPLORING CANADA — AND SPACE

Photo: Sgt Johanie Maheu, Rideau Hall © OSGG-BSGG, 2017

was almost instantaneous. “When breadth of things required, often to come from a scientific and the prime minister and the country with zero preparation. This new technological background, and calls, there is only one answer,” career did not come with the delight in being able to encourage she said. “My son said, ‘Let’s go!’ instruction manuals, procedures, excellence and careers in STEM and we didn’t hesitate.” process and training of my past (science, technology, engineering Noting that Rideau Hall isn’t job, but brought with it the same and math).” the easiest place for a teenager importance, responsibility, and Payette also firmly believes to grow up, especially given its knowledge that failure is not an Canada must continue to invest in isolated location, Payette has option.” science and innovation. “Science nothing but praise for her son. “He Calling the constitutional duties of is so important, as it describes the is really a good guy, who, when her role her greatest responsibility, world that we live in and is the accompanying me to events, takes Payette chooses the “unbelievable reality we experience every day. It his role very seriously, and I am experience of being able to is our understanding of how things very grateful for that.” When later honour and recognize work and how to use what we asked to name her greatest life excellence” as the aspect of the know to go further.” accomplishment, she replies, “I am job she feels most privileged to As the commander-in-chief of a very proud mom.” have. “We get to reward folks Canada, the Governor General also Payette also endured challenges all the time, and partner with plays a major role in recognizing of her own during her first year organizations to help them reward and supporting Canada’s military as Governor General. “For me, it others in their particular field. I and their families both in was the absolute diversity and am also the first Governor General Canada and abroad. This year’s

2 IPOLITICS MAGAZINE DECEMBER 2018 GOVERNOR GENERAL JULIE PAYETTE ON EXPLORING CANADA — AND SPACE

Remembrance Day ceremonies and commemoration of the 100th anniversary of the Armistice of the First World War was another opportunity for Payette to witness and engage in powerful discussions about war. “This year, we talked a lot about war and what it represents, both in Belgium and … at the Silver Cross Mother luncheon that we hold right after the Remembrance Day ceremony. This is such an important time, because there we have with us a mother who has lost her son, a member of the , in dire circumstances, and who represents all mothers who have lost a child. I think we have concluded that war is what happens when we collectively fail, when we fail to resolve our differences, to find a compromise, or just reach across. “The First World War stands as an example of the destruction that can happen when things go too far and when egos take over from rationality. Unfortunately, wars still happen, and that is where the effort of remembrance is so important. To honour those who have fallen, those who have been injured, the families, loved ones and civilians who have their lives destroyed, but also to teach the young ones to strive to get along.” Born and raised in , it was the years she spent working and living outside Canada that cemented Payette’s patriotism. “When you go abroad — and I think this is true for every nationality — home is home, Photos: Sgt Johanie Maheu, Rideau Hall © OSGG-BSGG, 2017 and it means something. It made me very much appreciate what makes Canadians who they are. I think we are a young country, full of excitement and optimism. Would you like to hear

DECEMBER 2018 IPOLITICS MAGAZINE 3

GOVERNOR GENERAL JULIE PAYETTE ON EXPLORING CANADA — AND SPACE my completely unscientific and unproven theory on why I think we are optimistic?” With encouragement to proceed, Payette says, “Every three months, we become hopeful for the next season. We are now enjoying the first snow of winter, but in three months, we will be done with snow and ice and looking forward to the crocuses and daffodils of spring, to taking a chair outside, even though it is 10 degrees, and to the smell of the air when it starts to get nice and the days get longer. And then we look forward to summer and swimming in the lake, festivals and vacations. Autumn next arrives with brightly coloured leaves, apples, back to school and new beginnings. And soon, we are looking to the first snow again.” After travelling the country extensively over the past year and before, Payette says the North is the place she wishes every Canadian could visit. “Canada is an Arctic nation, with its geographical centre located in Baker Lake, Nunavut. The North is incredible to see, part of us, and truly magnificent.” In images taken before boarding the Space Shuttle Endeavour, and after piloting a Canadair CT-114 Tutor jet (also flown by the Snowbirds), Payette appears calm and happy, prompting the question: Is she afraid of anything? She responds with a quote by Nelson Mandela. “I learned that courage was not the absence of fear, but the triumph over it. The brave man is not he Photos: Sgt Johanie Maheu, Rideau Hall © OSGG-BSGG, 2017 who does not feel afraid, but he who conquers that fear.” To this, she adds, “I strongly believe that everybody has a spark or two or many, an interest burning in one’s heart that makes us want GOVERNOR GENERAL JULIE PAYETTE ON EXPLORING CANADA — AND SPACE to go further. Me, I had always space. So perhaps, if there is any mom.” With no offence to Elvis, a wanted to fly airplanes.” surprise, it is how true that is.” lifetime of performing in choirs has When asked if anything about Back on Earth, her home is also made Handel’s Messiah Payette’s space surprised her, she smiles. inhabited by Yuri Gagarin ultimate holiday soundtrack. “We aren’t too surprised by space and Valentina Tereshkova, named Listing education, children, by the time we get there, which after the first man and woman to fairness, equity, diversity and equal is a good thing; surprises mean go to space. An athlete who stays distribution of riches as some of that we didn’t prepare well! We healthy with daily exercise, Payette the issues she feels passionately are eager to go and execute the also finds joy at rest in “lots of about, it’s likely that Payette’s mission, and if we look calm things,” such as spending time and holiday gift to Canada this season prior to takeoff, it is because we sharing laughter with her family. will be her continued advocacy for, have been very well trained and The holidays are also a time to and commitment to, the people prepared. We are the very lucky gather and celebrate. Calling and country she holds dear. ones that get to fly, but there herself a “gourmand,” which “I always say to every person from are thousands of people behind loosely translates to “a person Canada that there is no reason us that work at the planning, who loves good food and drink,” why you cannot fulfill your wildest organization, construction and she’s unable to choose a favourite dream here, and that is why we are management of all of these holiday dish. “We always do a so lucky. They have to believe me missions. As a junior astronaut, Christmas tree and hang the when I say, ‘You can trust me on you spend years listening to ornaments to Elvis Sings Christmas this one: The sky is not the limit.’ ” your colleagues speak of the Songs, a tradition started by my magnificence of the Earth from EAT THE RICH! the brig pub 23 york st. / byward market ottawa, / 613-562-6666 Books for the political junkie on your list

With the Yuletide nearly upon us, it’s a safe bet that if you’re flipping through this magazine, you likely have at least one Canadian political obsessive on your shopping list this year.

BY KADY O’MALLEY

While there’s no shortage of books that if book sales are sufficiently robust, it might just documenting the psychodrama spark a matched set of sequels in which Harper offers playing out south of the border — “brief and candid essays” from his time in office, with Michael Wolff’s Fire and Fury, Bob Chrétien weighing in on the populist phenomenon. Woodward’s Fear: Trump in the White There’s also former House, and ’s Trumpocracy, governor general David just to name three — it would be a Johnston’s Trust: Twenty shame not to include a little CanCon Ways to Build a Better when stuffing stockings this year. Country — which, we In that spirit, we’ve put together a list of books, should note, has earned movies and television series to please even the a nod of approval pickiest of partisans from reporter Kelsey on the Canadian Johnson’s mom. political spectrum. For a lighter touch that For starters, why nevertheless conceals not bundle two very a razor-sharp edge, different offerings wraps up from two very his tenure as Canada’s different prime ranter laureate with the ministers for the aptly titled Final Report. ultimate cross-aisle reading experience: Jean Chrétien’s My Stories, My Times and ’s Right Here, Right Now. We can only hope

DECEMBER 2018 IPOLITICS MAGAZINE 7 BOOKS FOR THE POLITICAL JUNKIE ON YOUR LIST

Meanwhile, on the DVD front, Other book suggestions: while it may not be Canadian, Yes Minister: The Complete Collection is at least set against the comfortingly familiar • For the poetry-lover: The backdrop of Westminster-style Flame, a collection of parliamentary democracy, and poems and other selections is, after all, still among the most from the notebooks of the note-perfect political comedy series ever made. Although we late . must admit it’s gotten a run • For the inner child: John for its money in recent years, Oliver’s A Day in the Life of thanks to both the original Marlon Bundo or Stephen The Thick of It and its American Colbert’s Whose Boat Is This counterpart, Veep. Boat? Just to be sure, why not pick up all three and hold a do-it- yourself viewing marathon on Boxing Day? • For an actual child: The Finally, if for one reason or another one of the names left on Wonky Donkey by Craig your last-minute to-buy-for list happens to belong to Prime Smith and Katz Cowley will Minister , we have it on excellent authority that leave you in stitches. his personal wish list includes: Tanya Talaga’s All Our Relations, • For the sore loser: Patrick which explores youth suicide in Indigenous communities, and Le jeu de la musique, a collection of short stories by Brown’s Takedown: writer Stéfanie Clermont. We’re also told he’s hoping to get The Attempted Political the new seasons of Kim’s Convenience and Fugueuse. Assassination of Patrick Meanwhile, Leader Brown or ’s ’s suggested stocking Doing Politics Differently: My stuffers include Star bureau Vision for Canada chief Susan Delacourt’s ahead-of- • For the fiction-lover: its-time Shopping For Votes: How Politicians Choose Us and We Choose Washington Black by Esi Them, as well as Peter Russell’s Edugyan, winner of the Two Cheers for Minority Government 2018 and Turning Parliament Inside Out, • For the local historian: The a collection of essays edited by former New Democrat MP Kennedy quirky, yet lovable, Lost Stewart that offers “practical ideas Ottawa by David McGee is a for reforming Canada’s democracy” solid choice. from contributors across the ideological spectrum, including current Commons denizens , and May herself. (While we requested similar intel from the offices of the other party leaders, not a single one got back to us by deadline, so if you happened to wind up with in your Secret Santa exchange, you’re on your own.)

8 IPOLITICS MAGAZINE DECEMBER 2018 There will be an extra spark to Christmas dinner this year. Don’t panic; government regulations haven’t reached into your kitchen to mandate that turkey must be served instead of roast beef (yet) — but there’s a special something in the air this year. Can you smell it? Christmas The Liberals’ long-awaited campaign promise to legalize cannabis was delivered on Oct. 17. Yet by setting the date just days after Thanksgiving, the government made Christmas dinner the first holiday meal that Cousin Eddie-like relatives will get the chance to slip a little extra somethin,’ somethin’ into. But because the Liberals don’t yet want you smoking your weed and eating it too, dinner Canadians can’t yet buy pot in food form; they have to wait till next Oct. 17 for producers of gummy bears and chefs alike to unleash their edible creations on the COOKING WITH CANNABIS country. For this year’s feast, your guide to getting high off Christmas dinner is brought to you by the combination of the wonders of the Internet and the mind of a 23-year- BY CHARLIE PINKERTON old who, at his own family feasts, tends to be relegated to cranberry-sauce duty. We’re not reinventing the wheel here. There’s a reason why Christmas dinner never changes, and that’s because it’s unbeatable. These pot-infused recipes will keep that holiday taste you know and love, while adding the perfect touch of potency.

The Bud Bird Canna-berry sauce Ingredients: Ingredients: • 1 cup water • 1 cup water • 2/3 cup unsalted butter • 1/2 cup olive oil • 8 grams cannabis • 6 grams cannabis • 12-lb turkey • 2 cups cranberries, fresh or frozen • salt • 1 cup sugar • pepper Directions: • additional herbs (optional) Grind cannabis, but not so fine that it goes through Directions: your strainer. Make cannabis butter: Grind cannabis to small, but Combine oil and cannabis in a slow-cooker set to not fine, bits. Bring one cup of water to a boil in a low heat for six hours. Stir occasionally. Don’t let oil medium saucepan. Add 2/3 cup unsalted butter. Once temperature exceed 240 F. Heating at slightly below melted, add ground cannabis. Leave on low heat for this temperature will allow the THC in the cannabis to two hours, stirring occasionally. Do not let this mixture transfer into the oil without burning. come to a rolling boil. Strain and store oil. Discard excess cannabis. Strain cannabis and butter mixture through a cheese- In a medium saucepan over medium heat, combine cloth into a bowl, squeezing the cloth of the liquid sugar, water and cranberries. Stir occasionally until before discarding the substance left in the cloth. sugar dissolves and cranberries are soft, about 10 Refrigerate the product in the bowl until the butter minutes. Increase heat slightly and cook until cranber- separates from the water. ries burst, about 10 minutes. Strain again, this time keeping the substance inside Add cannabis oil and let simmer for a minute. Add the cheesecloth. Put aside. additional sugar to flavour. Turkey time: Preheat oven to 350 F. Put turkey in large roasting pan and spread cannabis butter over the bird. Add seasonings — salt, pepper and other herbs — to your liking. The Ontario Cannabis Store offers various strands on its website, Cook turkey for 13 minutes per pound (a 12-pound so the marijuana of choice should be left to the chef, although products like “Moon,” “Harmonic” and “North Star CBD” sound turkey means it should be cooked for two hours and too good to be true for Christmas time. Take care when venturing 36 minutes). Baste turkey with cannabis-butter runoff into high-THC territory; you don’t want to be calling it quits every 30 minutes. before sugar cookies are served, now, do you. Proceed as usual with the rest of your typical sides and fixings — and voilà! You’ll have a delicious, packed-with-pot Christmas feast for the whole family (except members below the age of 18 in Quebec and and under 19 in every other province and territory). Hallelujah, and please enjoy responsibly.

DECEMBER 2018 IPOLITICS MAGAZINE 9 Keeping with the spirit of the season, we asked each federal leader what they would like to gift other leaders for Christmas. Here’s HolidayFROM what they came up with. THE BY KELSEY JOHNSON Gifts LEADERS

Prime Minister Justin Trudeau is leader of the . Maxime Bernier is a former Conservative cabinet minister who left the party this year Andrew Scheer: a climate plan! to form the People’s Party of : a “JagMeet & Greet” with Canada. His gift list has been Roch Voisine translated from French to English. Elizabeth May: matching friendship bracelets Justin Trudeau: A pipe to smoke pot that say “I pricing pollution.” Andrew Scheer: A copy of my autobiography, Maxime Bernier: a gift basket of world-class Doing Politics Differently: My Vision for Canada Canadian dairy products. Elizabeth May: The Politically Incorrect Guide : for ideas on how to bring to Climate Change by Marc Morano people together, a signed copy of Common Mario Beaulieu: A real leader Ground by Justin Trudeau Jagmeet Singh: A seat in the House of Commons

Andrew Scheer is leader of the Conservative Party of Canada. *Editor’s note: Mr. Scheer did not get back to us by press time, so the iPolitics team came up with some suitable gift ideas.*

Justin Trudeau: A one-way ticket to India, since he enjoyed the last trip so much Jagmeet Singh: A handmade knit tie to add to his collection Elizabeth May: Earplugs — so she doesn’t have to listen to the yammerings of her seatmate, Maxime Bernier Mario Beaulieu: A loudspeaker — so he can actually get people’s attention Maxime Bernier: A gift card for his local party-supply store

10 IPOLITICS MAGAZINE DECEMBER 2018 Mario Beaulieu is of the Bloc Jagmeet Singh is leader of the New Québécois. His list was Democratic Party of Canada. *Editor’s translated from French to note: Mr. Singh did not get back to us by English. press time, so the iPolitics team crafted this list on his behalf.* Justin Trudeau: We wanted to buy a hanger for his clothes, considering all his Justin Trudeau: Bollywood dance lessons travels, but our credit card is full. Andrew Scheer: a stuffed dinosaur and the movie Ice Age Jagmeet Singh: A mirror. Convenient to watch his back. Elizabeth May: an honorary NDP membership Andrew Scheer: A subscription to the Mario Beaulieu: A lifetime supply of Quebec cheese . Finally, an objective Maxime Bernier: Leadership for Dummies newspaper! And a subscription to the National Enquirer, so he can read credible and serious news. Elizabeth May: A giant cork-stopper for the Trans Mountain pipeline Maxime Bernier: Can you buy a Christmas present for the Grinch? Coal is full of CO2, so it must be good for the trees. Elizabeth May is leader of the . Justin Trudeau: A “Build your own pipeline” LEGO set (all the fun and none of the dilbit) Jagmeet Singh: A seat in the House of Commons Andrew Scheer: A subscription to the eminent journal Nature Climate Change, to fill a gap in his education Mario Beaulieu: A permanent leader for the Bloc Québécois Maxime Bernier: A lifetime supply of good, Canadian, supply-managed milk

DECEMBER 2018 IPOLITICS MAGAZINE 11 SANTA CLAUS NORTH POLE H0H 0H0 CANADA

Dear St. Nick,

We’ve never met before, but that’s generally the case with these letters, isn’t it? While I’m technically the oldest building here on Parliament Hill — and have been around the “block” more than once, so to speak — in a few weeks, I’m really going to have my moment. I’ve got company coming in a big way. As you might have heard, the House of Commons will be shuffling sideways on the Hill to make itself at home in my halls for a few years.

As you’re also probably aware (since you’re in charge of the naughty-and-nice list), some of these House guests can be a bit of a handful. Some can be rowdy, making decorum a challenge when they’re all in the same room, hollering across the aisle. So in preparation for the move, I’ve pulled together a list of items I think would help me prepare for any brewing brouhahas headed my way.

From one imaginary being to another, could you help a sista’ out?

FOR THE MPS:

• Leak-proof travel mugs: While coffee isn’t technically allowed in the new chamber, there’s no guarantee my new residents will abide by the rules. My fancy lime-coloured lining thanks you in advance.

• A talking/sharing stick for the Speaker: No stick, no talking. It’s as simple as that. Maybe two, actually; one that’s cane-like for professional banter, and another that’s pink and fluffy for especially middle-school-esque: question periods. House of Commons Procedure and Practice • New copies of O’Brien and Bosc’s This is for MPs who can’t seem to remember the rules. (We know who you are — and you do, too!)

• Power-filled desks: That way, all phones, computers and tablets can be tucked out of sight so that MPs can focus on the debate, as we know they really want to. But this way, they’ll still be -ready as soon as QP is over.

• Heavy-duty furniture pads: The building’s new roof is made of glass. To protect it from shattering when the noise levels escalate, it’s probably not a bad idea to have furniture pads on hand — just in case MPs decide to use their desks as percussion instruments. Not that that’s ever happened, but you never know.

• Parliament-approved sun-proof hats: Because this new House comes with natural light, we’re probably going to need something to prevent sunburned heads. We don’t need to tell you that some members have less natural, umm, coverage than others.

• Foam rollers: MPs will need them to relieve the pressure points caused by giving themselves all those standing ovations, as well as the strain of midnight voting marathons. It’s not easy sleeping on the floor.

12 IPOLITICS MAGAZINE DECEMBER 2018 FOR SENATORS:

• A Hill tunnel and/or reliable bus services, since, you know, they’ve been relegated to the Government Conference Centre all the way down the street. Extra snow removal, salt and gravel during the winter months would also be welcomed; we don’t want anyone falling and breaking a hip! Extra-grippy winter boots are another good option.

• Sunglasses, to protect their eyes from being blinded by the — how shall I put this —colourful, Canada-inspired carpet motif.

As a working man yourself, you know it takes a village to govern a nation — at least, that’s what the elves have told me. So in the spirit of giving, I’ve come up with a few other items for those special folks who help keep Parliament ticking.

• For the Parliamentary Press Gallery, a physical work space that has functioning Wi-Fi, charging stations, lots of access to hot coffee and enough desk space for all. I’m sure journos wouldn’t say no to a new “Hot Room” when Centre Block renovations are done, either. And if you want to throw a mini-bar into the mix, well, let’s just say you’d be on the “nice” list next year. And the year after that.

• For the library/cafeteria/cleaning/security staff, as many friendly “hello”s and “thank you”s for their work and service as your elves can muster. Seriously, the building wouldn’t function without them.

• For my friend, Centre Block, an on-budget and on-time renovation that is as painless as possible. May he soon be asbestos-free!

• For all: Detailed maps, maybe even in Google Maps form, of the new building, since I know everyone is going to get lost.

If you have any spare workers, I’m sure Public Works wouldn’t refuse the help — but please beware: With Ottawa’s public service still caught in the Phoenix pay-system debacle, there’s no guaranteed they’ll be paid. It might be worth slipping a few mitts-full of $20s in their stocking to hold them over. I can’t promise the absence of red tape — even if you do send us the North Pole’s best ribbon-cutters — but I know you’re fond of the colour red, so maybe that’ll make things easier?

Yeah, I know. That’s a stretch.

And, finally, on a more personal note: Please, please Santa, don’t let them bring the gold curtains over from Centre Block. Those things are ghastly and all they’re going to do is block out my new natural light. Secretly, I would not be sad AT ALL if they happened to get caught by the Eternal Flame as they made their way over — by accident, of course — and went down in a blazing ball of glory. They’ve had a good run, after all.

With that, may the year 2019 be as exciting for you as I know it will be for me.

Your friend, West Block

DECEMBER 2018 IPOLITICS MAGAZINE 13 Chantal Schad and Chloe E. Girvan. Photos: Matt Usherwood/IPOLITICS.

Is this Santa hat a great way to accessorize an outfit? Is there a better option? Christmas fashion ... Your Santa hat is ideal wear for volunteering at a children’s holiday party or while ringing a bell to raise money. Alternatively, big earrings are the and a few faux pas number 1 accessory of the moment. The bigger BY CHLOE E. GIRVAN the better, and a pair with sparkle, light or feathers will transform an office look to cocktail chic.

Chloe Girvan Thank you for meeting with me What’s a good gift to impress anyone on your today. Do you like my outfit? list? Chantal Schad No. Cashmere is such a luxury item for both men and women. A cashmere throw is lovely for (lengthy awkward silence devoid of eye contact) women and can be worn over the shoulders, as a scarf, or to stay cozy while travelling. Men love Cool. What are some current holiday and winter receiving a nice cashmere scarf, too. fashion musts? Sparkle is huge this year, and not just for the Are there any festive or winter trends for men? holiday season. It looks great for day or evening Of course! We’re seeing a lot more colour and under a blazer or in a puffer jacket, like one we pattern in men’s collections. A neutral suit with carry by Montreal designer Nicole Benisti. We’re a patterned shirt, either bright or subtle, is a hot seeing a lot of gold, silver and other metallics. look into the New Year. Lurex is also perfect for adding a bit of shimmer. Do men need to wear a tie? Can I wear sneakers with an evening gown? It’s always good to start the evening wearing a tie I wear sneakers almost every day, but not for and transition to open-neck halfway through the evening. If you have sore feet, a beautiful flat night. will do the trick. Pay attention to your footwear, as the wrong shoe can easily wreck a gorgeous How about wearing an extra-long tie with a outfit. Never purchase shoes that you can’t walk mushroom-shaped tip? in, and invest in a quality shoe bag for winter. This is Canada, be polite.

Visit schad on Sussex Drive or online to find these looks and more. Contact Chloe E. Girvan to borrow light-up Christmas-tree slippers and motorized angel wings.

14 IPOLITICS MAGAZINE DECEMBER 2018 It’s not all work in the precinct ... The House Warming Party attracted people from all parties and political stripes to celebrate the return of the . Guests raised a glass to Canada’s parliamentarians and raised more than $1,200 for tornado victims.

Policy, Prudence & Prosecco was the theme at the last Budget Party. & What’s it going to be this THE BUDGET PARTY coming year? SOSORED Join us at the Metropolitan Brasserie to find out. Stay tuned for post-budget chatter & bubbly in early 2019.

Photos: Fred Chartrand

DECEMBER 2018 IPOLITICS MAGAZINE 15

iPoliticsLIVE is the events wing of iPolitics. iPolitics bespoke events provide newsworthy and in-depth discussions that raise the visibility of important policy issues within leaders and decision-makers in the political community. iPoliticsLIVE brings together experts and leaders from various backgrounds and perspectives to deepen understanding of vital topics, advance innovative solutions to major challenges and facilitate dialogue.

In-house events are salon-style gatherings in an intimate setting and atmosphere that inform, educate, engage and entertain.

Lead the conversation: [email protected] / 613-789-2772 2018 naughty & BY HOLLY LAKE

Nor do we envy the position now finds So, it’s that time of year again. himself in. The parliamentary career of the longtime Tory MP and party stalwart burst into flames late this No, not for overindulging at the office party and taking year after his penchant for messaging young women the Christmas tree for a seductive spin across the dance late at night on social media came to light — as did floor — though if that does happen somewhere, we attempts to extort him as a result. Not exactly the best wouldn’t say no to the photos! situation for a member of the secretive National Security ’Tis the season to break out our annual “Naughty and and Intelligence Committee of Parliamentarians to Nice” list. Santa’s not the only one keeping track, you find himself in. But as noted in the know! National Post, “When it comes to lust, brains are the first thing to go out the window.” Naughty The former cabinet minister was booted from the As you may (or likely don’t) recall, Phoenix topped Conservative caucus when it became clear the one-time last year’s Naughty list. The federal government’s incident he initially revealed was anything but. He’s problematic payroll system deserves to hold onto its title probably not faring much better on the home front; again this year. It’s truly a gift that keeps on giving that there are bound to be some awkward family dinners in way. The problem is, it’s not so inclined to give people the Clement household over the holidays. the pay they’ve earned. In that regard, it’s certainly giving Scrooge a run for his money. Of course, Clement isn’t alone in the bad-behaviour books. But hey, we’ll give a shout-out to those working to try to fix it. We don’t envy you. In February, allegations of harassment landed on MP . He was kicked to the caucus

DECEMBER 2018 IPOLITICS MAGAZINE 19 PDF/X-1a:2003

The future is on board

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Ottawa Toronto Up to 20 450 km 4 h 23 min 4 h 34 min $467 $44 $423

Ottawa Montréal Up to 12 198 km 1 h 55 min 2 h 27 min $227 $33 $194

Ottawa Québec City Up to 8 482 km 5 h 23 min 4 h 39 min $488 $44 $444

Toronto Montréal Up to 13 541 km 5 h 25 min 5 h 30 min $562 $44 $518

Government of Canada employees enjoy a 10% discount on personal travel booked directly with VIA Rail. employees can take advantage of specially negotiated rates for business travel available through the Shared Travel Services HRG Portal. The discount does not apply to Prestige class or Escape fares. * 30 minutes was added to the total travel time by car in order to account for traffic and bad weather en route. ** The total cost to the taxpayer of travelling by car is calculated based on the following formula: $ cost of travelling by car (Treasury Board kilometric rate for Ontario of $0.55/km for car travel by a government official X total distance travelled) + $ employee-related cost (average hourly rate of $48/h for a government employee, based on a salary of $100,000 per year including employee benefits X travel time) = $ total cost to taxpayer. *** The value of travelling by train is calculated based on the following formula: $ cost of travelling by car – $ cost of travelling by train = $ taxpayer savings. Fares and conditions are subject to change without notice. TMTrademark owned by VIA Rail Canada Inc.

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Ford said Kimber “lasted about a minute” after his office found out about the accusations. In both cases, the said the complainant asked to be protected. Most recently, in his new book, former Progressive Conservative leader Patrick Brown accused Finance Minister Vic Fedeli of sexual misconduct, which Ford has dismissed as a “disgusting smear campaign.” Of course, Brown himself stepped down as in January amid allegations of sexual misconduct, which he has repeatedly denied. He’s now the mayor of . NDP Leader Jagmeet Singh. iPolitics/Matthew Usherwood That same month, Jamie Baillie was forced out as leader of ’s Progressive Conservative Party following curb in May after an investigation found the allegations an investigation into “allegations of inappropriate to be credible. NDP Leader Jagmeet Singh said it was behaviour.” clear Weir was unwilling to take responsibility for his Sheesh. actions, which meant “any rehabilitative approach” was “untenable.” That didn’t stop Weir from fighting to get back in, insisting his reinstatement “constitutes the only On to things that stank. We’re looking at you, just outcome.” By September, Weir was looking for an #ClamScam. While we think Dominic LeBlanc did a lot of external review of the investigation into the allegations great work as fisheries minister, what went down when against him, but Singh panned that idea. All is not well in he issued a lucrative Arctic surf clam licence to the Five the NDP family as a result, especially in Saskatchewan, Nations Clam Company earlier this year was beyond where some 67 key members of the party have called fishy. And in September, Ethics Commissioner Mario for Weir’s reinstatement. Dion agreed, finding that LeBlanc violated conflict-of- So, needless to say, nothing about this situation is Nice. Neither was the one that Quebec NDP MP Christine Moore found herself in. After an injured veteran accused her of sexual harassment and inappropriate conduct as an elected official, she was cleared by a third-party investigation in May. The NDP had launched the investigation and suspended Moore’s caucus duties as a result of allegations that surfaced belatedly of an inappropriate sexual encounter — and subsequent interactions — with Glen Kirkland after his appearance at a House of Commons committee in 2013. Dominic LeBlanc. iPolitics/Matthew Usherwood Meanwhile in Ontario, the first real scandal of ’s new government came in November when interest rules. The move was awash in controversy from Ontario Trade Minister Jim Wilson stepped down the moment it was announced in February. Five Nations suddenly. He originally said it was to seek treatment had partnered with Premium Seafoods of Nova Scotia, for addiction, but it soon came to light he was facing which is run by Edgar Samson, the brother of Liberal MP allegations of sexual harassment. It would be days . Later, another former Liberal MP, Todd before Premier Ford acknowledged what was really Russell, now president of NunatuKavut, was brought going on. on as a partner. iPolitics confirmed in May that Five Nations had initially been led by Gilles Thériault, who Around the same time, Ford’s director of issues is the first cousin of Jolène Richard — LeBlanc’s wife. management, Andrew Kimber, also resigned in the wake LeBlanc denied the family connection played any role, of a separate harassment complaint. telling the House of Commons that Thériault was one of About Kimber and Wilson’s exits, Ford said: “They’re his wife’s 60 first cousins. But in politics, like elsewhere, done, they’re gone, see ya later.” perception is reality.

DECEMBER 2018 IPOLITICS MAGAZINE 21 NAUGHTY & NICE

While new Fisheries Minister issue and important story of our time, and May sounds insisted in August there was nothing fishy about it the alarm accordingly at every opportunity. Some all, his department has scrapped the whole plan and dismiss her as alarmist, but we think she’s spot-on in her announced the process would start again from square assessment of the attention this warrants. one. And she always returns our calls, so there’s that.

Moving on to Mad Max and the Peeps. As a nod to We think it was awfully nice of Foreign Affairs Minister Gladys Knight and the Pips, that’s what we’ve dubbed to invite U.S. Trade Representative Maxime Bernier and his newly formed People’s Party of Robert Lighthizer to dinner at her house in October, Canada. (It amuses us and that’s what counts.) once a new NAFTA was agreed to. As sources told CBC News’ Katie Simpson, theirs was a difficult relationship for a long time, which was certainly not helped by the fact that Lighthizer is known to be moody. Over the course of more than a year of testy trade talks, Canadian officials never knew if they’d be met with “SpongeBob or cranky Bob” when they arrived at the table. Those of you who watch SpongeBob SquarePants will appreciate the difference!

MP Maxime Bernier. iPolitics/Matthew Usherwood

We have Mad Max at the bottom of the Naughty list, because we think he belongs on the Nice list, too. As a vocal lot ourselves, we’re all for speaking one’s mind and taking a stand. Frankly, there’s not enough of it in politics. So while we don’t always agree with what shoots from Bernier’s mouth, we appreciate someone who has the gonads to express their opinion — and who marches to the beat of their own drum, even when it means Official White House Photo/Evan Walker breaking with the Conservative band and going off to find new bandmates. There was yelling and name-calling by some, but, with an even-keeled approach, plenty of maple candy But lord, some of what he says stops even us in our (Lighthizer’s a fan), and Freeland’s unfailingly chipper tracks at times! At the very least, he keeps it interesting. demeanour at the helm, the Canadian team managed to keep the good ship USMCA (as U.S. President Donald Trump eventually named it) on course. Nice So our kudos to the entire team. “Nice” is a Canadian Let’s start with Elizabeth May, as she stereotype, but sometimes it serves us well. Also, a now shares a bench in the House with shout-out to the reporters who were stuck on the trade- Mad Max. An odd couple, yes, but so deal beach in weather hot and cold. far, they seem to be getting along. We include the Green Party leader We’ll also always tip our hat to standing up and saying on our Nice list because we see “sorry.” That’s what Prime Minister Justin Trudeau did her as one of the few politicians in November when he delivered a federal apology to on Parliament Hill who see the big the survivors and families of 900 German Jews whose picture — and how everything the Green Party Leader pleas for asylum were ignored by Canada during the government does is part of that. Elizabeth May. iPolitics/ Holocaust. Matthew Usherwood Climate change is the most pressing

22 IPOLITICS MAGAZINE DECEMBER 2018 NAUGHTY & NICE

It was 1939 when the captain of the MS St. Louis tried in and sent thousands of troops to America’s southern vain to find homes for his passengers looking for refuge border to meet a caravan of migrants walking across in Cuba and the United States. They were turned away Mexico — men, women and children who’ve walked there, and again when they tried to dock in Halifax. more than 4,000 kilometres from Central America to Then-prime minister King flee persecution, poverty and violence in their home rejected their request for a safe harbour, forcing the countries of Honduras, Guatemala, and El Salvador. ship back to Europe. More than 250 people on that ship would later die in the Holocaust. The decision to turn the country’s back on European Jews was “unacceptable then, and it is unacceptable now,” Trudeau said, adding the federal government “failed” a test of its humanity. “Their cries for help were left unanswered, for Canada deemed them unworthy of a home, and undeserving of our help.” The sentiment was echoed by every party in the House of Commons that day. Conservative Leader Andrew Scheer said it’s “a sign of a healthy society to be able to look at history clearly Photo: Pexels. and see both the light and the dark, to celebrate our achievements, but to also mourn our failings.” He added: ”There is no shame as a country in acknowledging We’ll also give a shout-out to the Senate for finally shameful acts in our past. The real shame would be in voting to send the Free Willy bill to the House. Despite forgetting them.” Conservative Sen. ’s attempts to sink it using every procedural stalling tactic in the books, the support NDP leader in the House of Commons, , said was there to set the whales and dolphins free from the the passengers were fleeing anti-Semitism, unaware it Red Chamber after nearly three years of being beached. had crossed the ocean before them. Free Willy made his leap to the upper house in October.

Now, some may say this belongs on the Naughty list. This now-infamous jaunt by our prime minister to India in February was a gong show of epic, embarrassing and international proportions. Trudeau even poked fun at the debacle during the Parliamentary Press Gallery dinner in May (as did every other party leader, and several U.S. late-night TV hosts). But god, we had some good laughs about it in the newsroom. The bhangra dancing! The outfits! The photos! It was Evening Brief gold. In October, Andrew Scheer hopped a plane to India to “repair” the relationship he said Trudeau had “damaged,” promising there’d be no dancing or celebrity chefs. What fun is there in that, we ask? Whatever you’re doing, there should always be dancing! NDP leader in the House of Commons, Guy Caron. iPolitics/Matthew Usherwood On that note, we hope your holidays are happy. Our advice is to eat, drink, and be merry — and of course “Intolerance has no place here, yesterday, today and spend time with family and friends, even if some of tomorrow,” he said. them also deserve to be on the Naughty list! The statements were in stark contrast to what was While we hope there were lessons learned, anyone who playing out south of the border, where 11 people can have fun at their own expense gets a pass on a lump had been killed just days before at the Tree of Life of coal from us. synagogue in Pittsburgh. They also came in a year when Trump drove a policy that separated migrant children from their parents and held those children in cages,

DECEMBER 2018 IPOLITICS MAGAZINE 23 In 2019, I will ... Channel my zen at yoga. Skip the tanning bed and check out the Aga Khan’s private island instead. Increase my shirtless- selfie game. Taste-test a Montreal Do less canoeing and more power-boating! microbrew. Help take down Andrew Scheer. Up my “ethnic costume” game. Never mention inclusionary zoning in a televised leaders’ debate. Be less “for the people” Shotgun a buck-a-beer. and more “for the peoplekind.” Tell Gerry to take a Twitter break. - Doug Ford Send Catherine McKenna and Rod Phillips to couples therapy.

BY MARIEKE WALSH

24 IPOLITICS MAGAZINE DECEMBER 2018 Ahh, the holidays. ‘Tis the season of special smells, family traditions — and, yes, those festive ear worms you either love to hate or hate to love. holiday As you brace yourself for weeks of endless holiday music blasted over the mall’s sound system, we asked MPs to share with us their songsYOU LOVE most-hated holiday tunes. They did not TO HATE disappoint. Allow us to present a holiday playlist that’s fit for the office Grinch.

BY KELSEY JOHNSON & CHARLIE PINKERTON

Track 1 Track 4 Who: Conservative MP Bev Shipley, Liberal MP Darren Who: Green Party Leader Elizabeth May Fisher and NDP MP Cheryl Hardcastle Song: Jingle Bell Rock Song: Grandma Got Run Over by a Reindeer by Randy Reason: “No Christian could hate a Christmas Carol; Brooks, performed by The Irish Rovers Christmas carols are hymns,” May told iPolitics. The Reason: For the record, Shipley still loves this song. The same rule does not apply, however, to “idiot commercial same can’t be said for his family. holiday music,” which May said “can be very painful.” A retired dairy farmer, Shipley says he used to get up early on Christmas morning and head to the barn to do Track 5 the morning milking. Upon his return, at around 6 a.m., Who: Liberal MP Ken McDonald he would load up the family’s record player and blast Song: The Hat I Got for Christmas Is Too Beeg by Mel Blanc the tune at full volume to wake up the rest of the house. Reason: McDonald doesn’t actually hate the song, but his It’s a tradition he continues today — even if he no longer wife does, he told iPolitics. “I like it. I torment her with it,” milks cows. He loves it. “I can’t say the same for some McDonald said. “I actually sing it. I don’t think I’ve heard members of my family,” he chuckled. a Christmas song that I don’t like. I love Christmas — Fisher says he hears the song too much and consider it from being a child until now, it’s a big event and it’s great sacrilegious. “I was going to say (I hate songs) like ones family time for us and we try to keep the traditions alive.” that have had multiple remakes, like by Bon Jovi or Bruce Springsteen, but I actually don’t mind all those,” Track 6 Fisher said. Who: Liberal MP Robert-Falcon Ouellette Grandma Got Run Over by a Reindeer is too “unpleasant” Song: Ave Maria, a classic performed by many artists, for Hardcastle’s liking. “It just gives you an unpleasant many times visual,” she said. Reason: Ouellette says Ave Maria reminds him of being a child and hearing the same songs over and over again. “It’s not very exciting. I’d like to hear a rock version or a Track 2 heavy metal version; I think that would be kind of cool.” Who: People’s Party of Canada Leader Maxime Bernier Song: O Come, Divine Messiah, a traditional carol Track 7 Reason: None given. Who: Liberal MP Song: Jingle Bells, the “Batman Smells” rendition Track 3 Reason: “Pure annoyance.” Who: Conservative MP John Barlow Song: Christmas Don’t Be Late by Alvin and the Track 8 Chipmunks Who: the iPolitics newsroom Reason: “It’s really annoying.” (Fair enough.) Song: Silent Night Reason: It’s seriously depressing. Need we say more?

DECEMBER 2018 IPOLITICS MAGAZINE 25 ‘Tis the season for Secret Santas, holiday get-togethers and season’s greetings. We reached out to some of the many embassies located in Ottawa and Canada’s missions abroad for their tips for infusing some liquid holiday cheer M into the weeks ahead. erry mixing While some will keep their HOLIDAY DRINK GUIDE celebrations classic with, in the BY IPOLITICS words of the French embassy, “CHAMPAGNE!!!” others will indulge in traditional tipples and creative cocktails. Here is what embassy staff will be sipping this season.

Posada Punch Submitted by the Mexican Embassy • 1 kilogram diced guavas • 1 kilogram apples, cut into six slices Damrak Gin & Tonic • 1 kilogram peeled and sliced sugarcane Submitted by the Embassy of the Kingdom of • 500 grams peeled, diced and pitted tejocote the Netherlands • 1.75 oz Damrak gin • 250 grams prunes • 5 oz tonic water • 250 grams raisins • 1-2 orange slices • 1 cinnamon stick Fill a copa glass with ice cubes. Pour in the • Sugar, as desired Damrak gin and top with tonic. Garnish with • 1 bottle of red wine two orange slices and a cinnamon stick. Stir • Rum or brandy, as desired briefly. Place all fruits, cinnamon and sugar in a pot with enough water to cover them. Simmer, covered, for 1 hour. Uncover and pour in the wine, let boil for 10 more minutes. The better the wine, the better the punch will taste. If it’s too cold outside or if you enjoy a strong punch, try pouring some rum or brandy into it; your Posada will be an even greater success, we guarantee it. Serve hot in clay jugs. Serves 16. Bohemian Cocktail Submitted by the Embassy of the Czech Republic Recipe from the book Recetario del Cine • 1 part Becherovka bitters Mexicano by Marie-Pierre Colle Corcuera, • 0.5 part freshly pressed lemon juice 1996, p.19. • 0.25 part elderflower cordial • 0.75 part fresh pineapple juice Shake all ingredients and strain into ice-filled glass. Garnish with a slice of cucumber.

26 IPOLITICS MAGAZINE DECEMBER 2018 MERRY MIXING

Arctic Fizz Submitted by the Embassy of Canada in Iceland • 45 mL Ungava gin • 30 mL lemon juice • 15 mL simple syrup • 90 mL soda • Garnish: orange zest and a cherry Load all ingredients (except soda and garnish) into a Boston shaker. Shake well and strain over ice in a highball glass. Garnish with Orange-plum Glühwein orange zest and cherries and finish with soda. Submitted by the Embassy of Germany • 2 litres sweet red wine • 200 mL orange juice • 400 grams plums • 1 cup white sugar • 1 tsp dark rum Winter Pimm’s punch • 1/2 tsp cinnamon Submitted by the British High • 2 star anise Commission in Ottawa • 3 cloves Think Pimm’s is just for summer? • 1 vanilla bean Christmas — and the folks at the British Pour the sugar into a pot and heat over High Commission in Ottawa — beg to medium heat until it caramelizes and differ. becomes light brown. Add the washed • 500 mL Pimm’s and pitted plums and stir them together • 500 mL brandy with the caramelized sugar for a minute • 1½ litres apple juice (on high heat). Deglaze the sugar and • 2 cinnamon sticks plums with the orange juice and add all • apple, sliced the spices (vanilla bean, star anise, cloves • orange, sliced and cinnamon) at the same heat. • ice Let everything boil for about 2 minutes. There’s nothing fancy involved in making this punch. Just toss it all into a jug, stir, Add the red wine and turn down to and pour. Keep it simple — not bad medium heat again. Do not let the wine advice for the holiday season. boil or the temperature in the pot to exceed 75 C. Let everything simmer for 10-15 minutes, checking the temperature regularly with a thermometer. Remove the pot from the stove, add the dark rum and pour everything through a sieve. Two tablespoons of honey can be added if extra sweetness is desired. Don‘t let the mulled wine cool down, since it’s supposed to be enjoyed hot! Serves 10. By Christian König, chef

DECEMBER 2018 IPOLITICS MAGAZINE 27

MERRY MIXING

Irish coffee Gemmer Bier (Ginger Beer) Submitted by the Embassy of Ireland Submitted by the High Commission of South Africa • 1 cup freshly brewed hot coffee South Africa’s Christmas beverage of choice • 1 tbsp brown sugar is ginger beer, which is best enjoyed with • 1 jigger Irish whiskey (1 1/2 ounces or 3 tbsp) homemade scones. Since Christmas falls during • Heavy cream, slightly whipped the summer season in South Africa, ginger beer Fill a mug (it should be footed if you’re going is the best way to cool down in the extreme for the real thing!) with hot water to preheat it, heat. “You will find it in almost every household,” then empty. Add 1 tbsp dark brown sugar into said the South African High Commission’s third the mug. Pour hot coffee into mug and stir to secretary of administration, Puleng Mbinda help dissolve the sugar. Blend in Irish whiskey. Here’s how to make a 20-litre batch. Carefully spoon whipped cream onto the top of • 20 litres water the coffee. Ideally, you want to do this by pouring • 250 mL ground ginger it gently over the back of spoon. Serve hot. • 2.5 kilograms brown sugar Michael Hurley, deputy head of mission at the • 20 grams instant yeast Embassy of Ireland, says adding the cream is the • 15 mL bicarbonate of soda critical step: “It’s meant to sit on top. If you’re not • 15 mL tartaric acid gentle enough with the cream, it will gloop in • 40 mL lemon essence (optional) there. It tastes the same, but it doesn’t look the • 250 grams raisins same.” Bring 10 litres of water to a boil before adding the ginger and boiling for another five minutes. If you’re under the weather over the holidays Pour that mixture into a bucket that holds 20 and forgoing festivities, the Embassy of Ireland litres. Then add the sugar and stir until it dissolves has your back with a recipe for hot whiskey before adding the remaining water. Once that will have you back on your feet in no time: lukewarm, sprinkle in the yeast and continue Simply pour whiskey in a glass and top it up with stirring. Then add the bicarbonate of soda, tartaric hot water, but put a spoon in first to prevent acid, lemon essence and raisins. Mix this well breaking the glass. before covering and brewing to mature for 12-24 Toss in some brown sugar and a handful of hours. After brewing, strain, then gradually pour cloves, and you’ll be feeling better in no time. into sterilized glass bottles to refrigerate. Serve chilled on a sunny South African Christmas Day.

Swedish Glögg Submitted by the Embassy of Sweden This recipe for glögg is served at the Swedish Ambassador’s residence during the holidays. It goes well with gingerbread and blue cheese. • ¾ cup vodka • 1/2 cinnamon stick • 1 slice of ginger • 5 cloves • Seeds from 8 cardamom pods • 1 strip of orange peel (use a potato peeler) • 1 teaspoon vanilla sugar • 1 ¼ cup granulated sugar • 1 bottle of red wine • Blanched almonds • Raisins Crush the spices and let them soak in the vodka for 2 days. Add the orange peel and vanilla sugar and let sit for one more day before straining out the spices. Pour the wine and vodka mixture into a pot, add the sugar and heat it to 70 C. (It must not boil!) Serve in small cups with peeled almonds and raisins. Skål!

DECEMBER 2018 IPOLITICS MAGAZINE 29

Christmas season on the Hill

BY L. IAN MACDONALD

On Parliament Hill, Christmas truly is, in the lyric of the seasonal song, “the most wonderful time of the year.” It starts with the lights, of some 400,000 Christmas lights along Confederation Boulevard, comprising Wellington, Elgin, Mackenzie, Sussex and Confederation Square. Directly across from Parliament, Confederation Square is the single best vantage point for seeing the entire spectacular show. It officially begins (began) with the Illumination Ceremony on Dec. 5, and runs through Jan. 7. It’s the 34th edition of Christmas Lights Across Canada, with simultaneous illuminations at provincial capital buildings across the country.

DECEMBER 2018 IPOLITICS MAGAZINE 31 CHRISTMAS SEASON ON THE HILL

Heritage department, the rink was meant to be open only the last three weeks of December, when it was supposed to host a pee wee hockey tournament that was moved to an indoor arena because of a cold snap. In the event, the rink stayed open until the last week of February, but there was no hockey, figure skating or speed skating allowed. People waited weeks for their numbers to be called for a very short free skate. The cost of the rink turned out to $8.2 million, or $100,000 a day, with each skate costing $53 per person. In this holiday season, the focus is back where it belongs, on people flocking to the Hill, as they have since 1985, to see the Centre Block aglow with Christmas scenes. Just to indicate the passage of time, It’s a time for a spectacular light show reflected off the was 11 years old when she attended the first Centre Block, with music and the famous bells of the Illumination Ceremony with her parents and brothers Peace Tower ringing out with Christmas carols. in 1985 and now, at 44, she’s the attorney general of There was something of a distraction last year when an Ontario. Justin and Sophie Grégoire Trudeau, and their outdoor hockey and skating rink was set up on the lawn three kids, are marking their fourth season of lights on in front of the East Block. A Canada 150 project from the the Hill.

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Contact: [email protected] or 613.505.0864 32 IPOLITICS MAGAZINE DECEMBER 2018 CHRISTMAS SEASON ON THE HILL

Services and Procurement Canada completes its biggest job ever—a $3 billion restoration project with $1.8 billion already spent, more than $750 million on the West Block upgrade alone. Well, it’s the biggest at least since the original Centre Block was razed by a fire in Feb. 1916, in which only the Parliamentary Library at the back of the building was spared by iron doors which thwarted the blaze. The new Centre Block was still a work in progress when it opened in 1920, and the Peace Tower was dedicated on July 1, 1927, the diamond anniversary of Confederation, by Governor General the Viscount Willingdon. So, a decade-long construction project is actually the historical precedent rather than the exception for renovation and “rehabilitation”, as PSPC puts it, of the Centre Block. Among other things, the walls are full of asbestos. And the copper roofs will be replaced by new ones, which could take decades before they turn green. The Centre Block rehab is already costed at $760 million, but no one would be surprised if the final number is closer to $1 billion. It’s taken seven years just to fix up the West Block, where a glass-roofed chamber built in its courtyard will serve as home to the House of Commons for at least the next decade. Prime ministers may come and go who never serve in the Centre Block. As for the Senate, the Red Chamber is moving to the Government Conference Centre, formerly the main railway station, down on Wellington Street by the Rideau Canal. So, in addition to being the normal Christmas period of celebration on the Hill, it will also be a season of But 2018 will likely mark the last such light show on the farewells. Hill for years, at least on the present scale, as the Centre Block is closing for renovations and repairs expected to It will be a decade before another splendidly decorated last at least a decade. Christmas tree stands sparkling in the Hall of Honour, with smaller trees, wreathes and trinkets down the In other words, if you want to see Christmas on the Hill hallway to the foyers of the House and Senate chambers. as we’ve come to know it, you’d better get there this year. And don’t think the kids aren’t aware of the closing There will be no caucus Christmas parties in the Hall of the Centre Block. of Honour, and no staff parties in MPs’ and Senators’ offices upstairs. What will parliamentarians do without On a visit to Ottawa last summer, my nine-year-old their sixth-floor dining room? For generations the daughter was asked what she wanted to see. “Inside the Parliamentary Dining Room has been the lunch hub of Centre Block,” Zara replied, “otherwise I won’t see it until the Hill before question period, and a social gathering I’m finished college.” We went to the Parliamentary Press point for MPs and Senators in the run-up to Christmas. Gallery to get her an accreditation. Off the Hill, the season to be jolly began the last week of The Gallery Secretariat kindly gave her a credential as November throughout the Parliamentary Precinct, and an honourary member, and we spent the afternoon carries on after MPs leave town for their ridings at the joining tours of the Senate and House chambers, the end of the sitting in mid-December. Hall of Honour and the Parliamentary Library. (“I’m the youngest honourary member of the Gallery,” she It’s Ottawa’s version of the 12 days of Christmas. Only declared, and wouldn’t take her pass off for days.) longer. There will be none of that for the next decade, as Public

DECEMBER 2018 IPOLITICS MAGAZINE 33 The iPolitics 2018 Holiday Quiz It has been another busy year in Canadian politics. Have you been keeping up with the headlines? Test your attention span and your endurance with iPolitics’ Holiday Quiz. If you’re looking for the answers, though, you’ll have to go to ipolitics.ca. Sharpen your pencils…

Eleven countries, including Which Canadian was elected to On March 22, MPs on the Canada, finalized a reformed the top spot of the International Commons ethics committee 1 version of the Trans Pacific 5 Democrat Union in February? 10 agreed to study the privacy Partnership during a two-day meeting a) implications of Cambridge Analytica in Tokyo in January. What is the trade b) Andrew Scheer harvesting the profiles of millions of deal’s new name? c) Stephen Harper Facebook users without their consent. a) Comprehensive and Political Trans d) Tony Clement What prominent figure linked to the Pacific Partnership scandal testified before MPs? b) Comprehensive Economic Free Prime Minister Justin Trudeau a) Facebook CEO Mark Zuckerberg Trade Agreement embarked on a now-infamous b) Canadian Prime Minister Justin c) Comprehensive Pacific Rim Trade 6 tour of India in February. What Trudeau Pact was he criticized for doing during his c) Suspended Cambridge Analytica CEO Alexander Nix d) Comprehensive and Progressive trip? d) Former Cambridge Analytica Trans Pacific Partnership a) Wearing traditional Indian clothing in too many photo-ops employee and whistleblower Christopher Wylie On Jan. 29, Liberal MP Jean b) Inviting a convicted Sikh extremist Yip enjoyed her first day as a to a reception Beth Bell, an IBM Services 2 c) Misspelling “Gandhi” in a tweet member of Parliament. Why is it vice-president and partner, sent from the revered Indian leader’s 11 notable that she won a Toronto-area addressed the Senate finance ashram seat in a December 2017 byelection? committee on March 27 about the d) All the above a) She replaced her husband as MP in Phoenix pay system. What was IBM’s the riding a few months after he died message to the committee? from cancer. How much money did the a) We’re sorry Phoenix is such a mess. b) She defeated a well-know 7 federal government set aside b) Don’t blame us for Phoenix’s Conservative politician to win the in the budget on Feb. 27 to failures. riding. support news media in under-served c) It’ll all be fixed soon. c) She was a well-known actress before regions? d) Something’s wrong with Phoenix? running for politics. a) $350 million a year d) She is an Afghanistan war vet. b) $10 million a year Which popular Canadian TV c) $75 million a year show aired its final episode on The Senate passed a bill on the d) zero 12 April 10? evening of Jan. 21 that changed a) 3 one line of . In what After nearly eight years, b) Vikings year did the song, written in 1908, 8 Suzanne Legault retired from c) Master Chef Canada officially become Canada’s national what job in February? d) Rick Mercer Report anthem? a) Information Commissioner a) 1908 b) Chair of the CBC Why did thousands of b) 1939 c) Commissioner of Official Languages 13 Canadians wear their hockey c) 1967 d) Librarian of Parliament jerseys and place hockey sticks d) 1980 on their front porches in April? U.S. President Donald Trump a) To mark the start of the NHL playoffs The lyric change is designed imposed tariffs on Canadian 9 b) To pay tribute to the Humboldt to make the anthem gender- steel and aluminum on May 31. 4 Broncos bus-crash victims neutral. What lyric replaced “in What was his official reason for the c) To encourage more Canadians to all thy sons command”? tariffs? play hockey a) together we all stand a) National security b) Strong-arming NAFTA negotiations d) To protest the poor performance of b) all genders hand in hand Canadian hockey teams this year c) in all of us command c) Sticking it to China d) in all people command d) Because he feels like it

34 IPOLITICS MAGAZINE DECEMBER 2018 Whose grandchildren were Federal NDP Leader Jagmeet Under the USMCA, on what members of Prince Harry of Singh announced in August 25 did Canada not make a 14 Wales and Ms. Meghan Markle’s 21 he was running for a seat in concession? wedding party? Parliament. In what riding is he a) Dairy a) running? b) Chapter 19 b) a) c) Pharmaceuticals c) b) Heritage d) Copyright d) Jean Chrétien c) d) Papineau In which Canadian city is pot What did Donald Trump’s top 26 the most expensive, according 15 trade adviser, Peter Navarro, What did Maxime Bernier say to a survey say to Fox News on June 10 about the Conservative Party released in October? after Trump’s departure from the G7 22 of Canada when he announced a) Regina meeting in Charlevoix, Que.? in August he was leaving the party to b) Nanaimo a) “There’s a special place in hell” for start his own? c) Toronto PM Justin Trudeau. a) Instead of leading as a principled d) Halifax b) “What we’ve got here is a failure to communicate.” Conservative and defending the c) “Keep your friends close, but your interests of Canada and Canadians, According to a poll conducted enemies closer.” Conservative Leader Andrew Scheer is 27 by the Angus Reid Institute d) “Never go in against a Sicilian when following the Trudeau Liberals. on Nov. 1, what percentage death is on the line.” b) I am now convinced that what we of Canadians support the Trudeau will get if Andrew Scheer becomes government’s carbon tax? This year, Canada became the prime minister is just a more a) 44 per cent 16 second country in the world moderate version of the disastrous b) 54 per cent to legalize marijuana. Which Trudeau government. c) 64 per cent country was first? c) I have come to realize over the past d) 74 per cent a) Peru year that this party is too intellectually b) Holland and morally corrupt to be reformed. Ousted Tory MP Tony Clement c) Uruguay d) All the above. said in a statement Nov. 6 d) Tonga 28 he had sent sexually explicit Which Liberal MP crossed photos of himself to what he What did PM Justin Trudeau call 23 the floor and joined the thought was a “consenting woman” 17 Ontario Premier Doug Ford’s Conservative Party on Sept. 17? online. Instead, the recipient was scrapping of the province’s cap- a) of Scarborough North an extortionist. What was the and-trade system? in Ontario extortionist demanding? a) Unfortunate b) Frank Baylis of Pierrefonds—Dollard a) 50,000 euros b) Stupid in Quebec b) Documents from the National c) Short-sighted c) of Aurora—Oak Security and Intelligence Committee of d) Ill-advised Ridges—Richmond Hill in Ontario Parliamentarians, on which Clement sat d) of South in c) Clement’s resignation as an MP Where did the prime minister d) $1 million 18 celebrate Canada Day? a) Leamington, Ont. What announcement did Natural As part of its fall financial b) Regina c) Dawson City, Yukon 24 Resources Minister Amarjeet 29 update, Doug Ford’s Progressive d) All the above Sohi make about the Trans Conservative government Mountain Pipeline on Sept. 21? announced it will axe three of the What was not included in the a) The government has deemed the province’s watchdogs. Which office is first speech from the throne expansion project unfeasible and is not on the chopping block? 19 delivered by Ontario Premier putting it on hold indefinitely. a) French Language Services Doug Ford’s government? b) The (NEB) will Commissioner a) A timeline for balancing the be conducting a 22-week review of the b) Environmental Commissioner province’s books impact of increased tanker traffic on the c) Information and Privacy b) A reference to Indigenous Peoples marine environment. Commissioner c) French c) The federal government will appeal d) Provincial Advocate for Children and d) All the above the unanimous Youth ruling that found the NEB’s approval Who was elected national chief of of the expansion to be fundamentally 20 the Assembly of First Nations in July? flawed. a) Perry Bellegarde d) A buyer has been found for the project b) Katherine Whitecloud and the government will be selling the c) Sheila North pipeline and all associated assets. d) Russ Diabo

DECEMBER 2018 IPOLITICS MAGAZINE 35 We congratulate the federal government on measures to support a strong and stable Canadian media. Facts matter, fact checking matters. Journalism and public broadcasting must be supported by any government that does not believe in anything other than self preservation. Happy Holidays From

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