Nicholls p. 9 Where Make Opioid politics will p.4 Leslyn CBC TV Lewis relevant run? again p. 17 p. 6 O'Toole's ghost problem

Gwynne Dyer p.18

THIRTY-FIRST YEAR, NO. 1758 Canada’s Politics and Government Newspaper MONDAY, AUGUST 31, 2020 $5.00

News News Ontario MPP New Statscan data ‘indispensable’ Baber, former senior staffer for understanding systemic anti- Lantsman, and former candidate Willson said Black racism, says professor to be eyeing StatsCan has released a number of large-scale, disaggregated studies on the Black population Conservative in Canada since early 2019. nomination in York Centre BY AIDAN CHAMANDY Thousands gathered on BY ABBAS RANA ata released by Statistics Parliament DCanada over the past year Hill for a he yet-to-be-scheduled byelec- and a half could help to dispel the rally to call Ttion in York Centre is shaping myth of a single, uniform Black attention to up to be a high profile contest population in Canada, and will be anti-Black with prominent Conservative and “indispensable” for researchers racism and police studying systemic racism in the Continued on page 14 country, say professors from three violence universities across the country. against Statistics Canada has released Black people a spate of data on the Black popu- on June 5, News lation in Canada in stages since 2020. Prof. February, 2019, to honour the In- Afua Cooper ternational Decade of Peoples of said symbolic 29 of 92 African Descent, which runs from action, like 2015 to 2024. The studies span a the prime Conservative 15 year period beginning in 2001 minister and use data from the census, the kneeling at general social survey, academic the rally, MPs failed to studies, and more. is not good The data shows the diversity enough. The deliver their of the Black population is often Hill Times “obscured” by anti-Black racism photograph by own ridings to Andrew Meade and stereotypes that lead to a view their endorsed Continued on page 10 leadership

Publications Mail Agreement #40068926 News candidate BY ABBAS RANA ‘He’s not exactly a household name:’ Erin O’Toole’s oughly one-third of Conserva- Rtive MPs who endorsed a can- didate for the party’s leadership ‘well-funded’ team ready for a fall election, say strategists couldn’t deliver enough votes in their riding to put their choice on BY MIKE LAPOINTE into a campaign if an election is Fred DeLorey has put together Erin O’Toole was announced top, according to an analysis by triggered by the government’s a leadership organization which the winner of the months-long The Hill Times. onservative strategists say the upcoming Throne Speech, and can be quickly converted for a Cparty is in good shape to jump that national campaign manager Canada-wide campaign. Continued on page 15 Continued on page 16 2 MONDAY, AUGUST 31, 2020 | THE HILL TIMES

planning to run candidates in B.C., Sas- katchewan, Manitoba, and Alberta. Heard on the Hill Docs ‘game’ to join TikTok Could Canada’s two top doctors be coming to TikTok? In a moment of lev- by Palak Mangat ity during a briefing on the county’s fight against COVID-19 earlier this month, chief public health officer Dr. Theresa Tam and her deputy, Dr. Howard Njoo, were asked by CBC national politics reporter David Thurton about that possibility. Speaking about the need for Ottawa to better reach Longtime Edmonton advocate Salma Lakhani ‘Campaigns do younger audiences in their messaging about was sworn in as Alberta’s first Muslim-Canadian the virus, especially as schools reopen and lieutenant-governor last week. Photograph Canadians adjust to living under the “new courtesy of Nicholas Milliken’s Twitter normal,” neither doctor ruled it out. “To your question, or maybe a challenge earned herself the vice-regal role on top of matter’: Wexit’s at the end, I’m pretty game for all sorts of accolades like the Queen’s Diamond Jubi- things,” smiled Dr. Tam. lee Medal. Among the politicos on hand for the ceremony were Calgary Mayor Naheed Nenshi, his aide Zain Velji, Alberta Premier Jason Kenney, Conservative MP Matt Jen- Jay Hill votes in eroux, and Liberal MP Dan Vandal. CTV’s Molly Thomas eyes move to Toronto Hillites learned last week that they will Conservative lose Molly Thomas, a national correspon- dent who joined CTV’s Ottawa bureau last year, to the network’s investigative W5 program. What’s a loss for Ottawa will be a gain for Toronto, as Ms. Thomas takes leadership race, Canada’s chief public health officer, Dr. her passion for social justice stories to The Theresa Tam, and her deputy, Dr. Howard Njoo, Big Smoke, where she will be aided by are both game to be featured on TikTok if it CityNews alum Avery Haines in her new helps the government reach younger audiences. role as investigative correspondent. “What a whirlwind year and a half in The Hill Times photograph by Andrew Meade resigns CPC Ottawa! Fed election, minority mandate, global pandemic, largest $ programs in “I think if people think I’m the kind of [Canadian] history, race realities,” tweeted person that they would want to see on Tik- Ms. Thomas on Aug. 26. “BUT…it’s time to Tok, absolutely. But I’ll also depend on my move on.” communications experts [and] colleagues Ms. Thomas previously worked with membership to tell me [that]. Dancing is probably not CPAC and CTV in Regina, and has cov- something that I would engage in, but who ered stories in Somalia, Bangladesh, Haiti, knows. I don’t have coordination, but other France, and Iraq. Though she joined the Veteran politician exercise, yes.” Hill fairly recently in 2019, she will be re- Jay Hill, pictured Dr. Njoo noted he and Dr. Tam had al- membered (by this rookie reporter, at least) in 2012, says he ready done outreach videos for the Public for always sporting a smile and willing to supported Erin Health Agency of Canada in the earlier offer a helping hand at committees. O'Toole early on in days of the pandemic. “Both of us are the Conservative game,” he laughed. It wouldn’t be the first time TikTok has Choquette joins Crestview leadership race but Crestview Strategy scooped up experi- was 'convinced' made its way onto the federal scene; NDP Leader Jagmeet Singh used it extensively enced Liberal strategist Jackie Choquette to put another last week, the firm announced in an Aug. contender as his during the 2019 election campaign in a bid to pull in younger voters. 27 release. “Jackie is a proven strategist first choice. Now who understands how to build and lead interim leader of the successful public affairs engagements on Wexit Party, he said Lakhani sworn in as first both a national and a local level,” said Gin- he will resign his Muslim-Canadian lieutenant ny Roth, the group’s national practice lead CPC membership for government relations, in the release. as it would be governor 'unethical' to be In a historic move, Alberta welcomed its a member of two first Muslim-Canadian lieutenant-governor parties. The Hill last week when Salma Lakhani was sworn Times file photograph in on Aug. 26. A small, COVID-friendly ceremony marked the beginning of her olitical veteran Jay Hill, interim leader by the constant negativity of the O’Toole five-year term in the post, which was previ- Pof the newly emerged Wexit Party, left campaign directed at Mr. [Peter] MacKay.” ously filled by Lois Mitchell. his former party, the Conservatives, with Mr. O’Toole, who was named the victor “I have been passionate about women’s one last hurrah by voting in its recent lead- last week after a six-hour delay because health, education relating to human rights ership race. of glitches with the ballots, asked the and, in particular, making higher learning Speaking to CBC’s West of Centre pod- police to investigate the alleged hacking accessible to newcomers and others who cast, Mr. Hill said he did so “for my grand- of private campaign information from Mr. have been marginalized by life’s unpredict- children and the well-being of Canadians MacKay’s team during the race. He took 57 able challenges,” Ms. Lakhani said in her in general.” per cent of the votes on the third and final address. “Helping those in need take that “I felt, in fact, it was a civic duty, hav- ballot to Mr. MacKay’s 43 per cent. first step up the ladder to better opportuni- ing been involved in the Conservative Mr. Hill, who served in the House for 17 ties is one way of making a lasting dif- Liberal strategist Jackie Choquette is joining Party from its very birth when [there] years (1993-2010) under the Reform Party, ference in the lives of so many. It ensures Crestview Strategy, the firm announced last was a merger between Reformers and the the Canadian Alliance, and then Conserva- that these individuals become even more week. Screen capture courtesy of Hill and Progressive Conservatives; that I owed it to tive Party as MP for Prince George-Peace productive members of the community and Knowlton Strategies the past and future to participate and cast River, B.C., was tapped to lead the separat- much better able to provide for their entire a ballot,” he said. ist Wexit Party in June. The party is looking families going forward.” Ms. Choquette, now a vice-president Mr. Hill confirmed he will be resign- to run candidates in the next election, In 1977, Ms. Lakhani came to Edmonton with the group, was previously vice-presi- ing his CPC membership “because of which could come in the fall if all opposi- from her hometown of Kampala, Uganda, dent of public affairs with Hill and Knowl- course I feel that going forward, it would tion parties vote against a Throne Speech after all Ugandans of Asian background ton Strategies, and served as chief of staff be unethical, to say the least, to belong to that will be delivered upon Parliament’s were expelled from the country. She to Ontario Liberal cabinet minister Yasir two federal parties.” While he noted that return in September. planned to only stay for a couple of years Naqvi from 2014 t0 2016. She has advised he announced early on in the race that he Prime Minister Justin Trudeau pro- with her partner, Zaheer Lakhani, an ac- premiers, ministers, and CEOs, and has was supporting Erin O’Toole, “all I will say rogued Parliament until Sept. 23 amid the complished cardiologist who was named help run more than a dozen campaigns, is my opinion changed. Campaigns do mat- government’s ongoing WE Charity contro- a member of the Order of Canada in 2006. including former Dalton McGuinty-aide ter, and I was convinced to choose some- versy this month, framing it as a decision But 43 years later, the pair have two daugh- John Fraser’s successful 2013 provincial one else as my first choice.” He did not to reset his agenda in an updated response ters, Ms. Lakhani has proven her entrepre- run in Ottawa South. directly say who he supported, but when to COVID-19. Peter Downing, Wexit’s neurial chops by owning and operating an [email protected] pressed, added he was “a bit turned off former leader, said in 2019 the group was early childhood education centre, and she’s The Hill Times THE HILL TIMES | MONDAY, AUGUST 31, 2020 3 Opinion

of public servants, particularly senior ones where there’s been recent work on a par- like Mr. Poloz. In addition to COIA and ticular file. But this is the governor of our Poloz appointments the Lobbying Act there is the Values and nation’s central bank we’re talking about. Ethics Code for the Public Service and, as A former Bank governor hardly needs to required by that Code, an organization- have had “direct and significant official specific code of the Bank of Canada. But dealings” on a specific file to have undue again, as elaborate as the rules are, in this clout if he or she raises that file with their prove need to fill situation there seems to be a significant former employer. oversight. And what about the spirit of the rules? The existing post-employment rules The public service code requires that pub- work through a mix of cooling-off peri- lic servants “[act] at all times with integrity gap in ethics rules ods, recusals, and reporting and trans- and in a manner that will bear the closest parency. They aim mainly at managing public scrutiny, an obligation that may not two risks: one, that a public servant’s be fully satisfied by simply acting within work might be influenced by the prospect the law.” If Poloz did, in fact, negotiate his of future employment, and two, that any appointment while governing the Bank of confidential information or influence that Canada, then it hardly seems to meet this a former public servant might have could standard. be misused for the advantage of a new There is a potential pitfall in legislating employer. ethics regimes in the first place, since a The Bank’s code explicitly addresses legalistic approach can encourage narrow both risks. It provides for the possible adherence to the letter of the law, which removal of an employee from a file where will always have loopholes. In the end an offer of future employment has been there is no substitute for a culture of pro- accepted. It also disallows representations priety. Still, this is a case where a change by a former employee on behalf of anyone to the rules, starting with the Bank’s own with whom the employee had “significant code, would likely do some good. In the dealings” in his or her final year. meantime, the stature of high office is Even more on point, the COIA says that vulnerable to private appropriation from Mr. Poloz can’t accept employment from too hasty a transition to the corporate any organization with whom he had “direct boardroom. and significant official dealings” in his Karl Salgo is the executive director last year with the Bank. One year is not a public governance and David Murchison is long time, although in fairness conflict of the senior vice-president, international, at interest rules are not meant to prevent the the Institute on Governance. The authors cross-fertilization of talent. are former senior officials in the govern- The problem is that both the Bank’s ment of Canada. rules and the COIA address situations The Hill Times CAREERS

Stephen Poloz was appointed to the boards of Enbridge and CGI within a week of leaving his post Coordinator, Government as the governor of the Bank of Canada in June. The Hill Times photograph by Andrew Meade Relations and Parliamentary Affairs General as an employer and as a steward No one can claim that of public resources. JOIN OUR TEAM! The former finance minister is gone, but Stephen Poloz broke officially it’s because he wants a job at the OECD. And the GG, who swore in his suc- Canadian Canola Growers Association (CCGA) is currently looking for a Coordinator any rules by accepting cessor the next day, seems unlikely be the in the Government Relations and Parliamentary Affairsto join the Government appointments to corporate subject of an uneasy (and unprecedented) call to The Palace. Indeed, by agreeing to Relations team and complement and enhance the work currently underway by the boards right after leaving prorogue Parliament the GG has ensured Vice President and Manager, Government and Industry Relations. that the PM himself will not face any the Bank of Canada. No parliamentary music at least until after Her As the Coordinator, Government Relations and Parliamentary Affairs,you will be Excellency delivers the Speech from the primarily responsible for monitoring legislation and key policy developments, analysis cooling-off period applied Throne in early fall. And so, for at least the of policy files, and act as the key interlocutor between the offices of Parliamentarians to his situation, and therein time being, these matters remain alive and and government officials and CCGA. in the public eye. lies the problem. But there is one important ethical issue As an ideal candidate, you have relevant educational and work experience in a field that hasn’t gotten the attention it deserves: related to politics, parliamentary process, public administration or trade association. the appointment of former Bank of Canada You have a great understanding of Canadian government and regulatory structure governor Stephen Poloz to the boards of and ability to communicate effectively with internal and external audiences, liaise and two well known private sector firms, an en- coordinate with officials and stakeholders on external relations matters. ergy company and a technology company, only days after his retirement earlier this CCGA, with offices in Winnipeg and Ottawa, is the national voice for Canada’s 43,000 summer. Given the timeline, it’s reason- canola farmers. Our main business functions include: delivering the Advance Payments able to surmise that the appointments were arranged while Mr. Poloz was still with the Program – a federal government financing program – to approximately 10,000 Bank. farmers across western Canada each year; conducting agricultural policy development This is just too soon. It gives rise to research; advocating on issues, programs, and policies that impact canola farmers. the apprehension that a sitting governor Karl Salgo & David Murchison parlayed his position into lucrative employ- If you have the experience, skills, and drive to excel in this role and would like to join our team, please by visiting CCGA career web site at www.ccga.ca/about/careers by Opinion ment and creates a risk of undue influence should these companies have near-term September 10, 2020. We look forward to hearing from you! dealings with the Bank. ooner or later every government runs The difference between this case and the We thank all applicants, however only those selected for an interview will be Sinto ethical controversy, and there is ones that have garnered public attention, contacted. no shortage of high-profile ethical issues aside from the profiles of the protagonists, on the prime minister’s plate these days. is that no one can claim that Mr. Poloz If you may require accommodation in They include the former finance minister’s broke any rules, or even protocols. Abso- completing the application process, failure to recuse from the WE decision, the lutely no cooling-off period applied to his please email [email protected] . PM’s own failure to recuse from the WE situation. Therein lies the problem: there’s a Information received by us relating to decision, and the somewhat dubious prov- gap in the rules that needs to be filled. any accommodation needs of enance of the WE proposal. There is also Admittedly there are plenty of rules applicants will remain confidential. the alleged misbehaviour of the Governor governing the post-employment activities

THE HILL TIMES | MONDAY, AUGUST 31, 2020 5 Opinion Parliament failing to oversee Canada’s military

Failure to act on several important pieces of legislation gives the impression that the Canadian Forces generally, and the military justice system specifically, are not concerned with fulfilling the will of Parliament in a meaningful way.

Defence Minister Harjit Sajjan has not yet called for an independent review of the National Defence Act, despite the fact that such a review is legally-mandated and long overdue, write Michel Drapeau and Michel Drapeau & Joshua Juneau Thomas Juneau. The Opinion Hill Times photograph by Andrew Meade

arliament is supreme, limited Ponly by the Constitutional separation of powers and the international. Throughout, the if the Canadian Forces waits long Forces generally, and the military be to superintend the military Charter of Rights and Freedoms. (then) judge advocate general was enough, they can undermine the justice system specifically, are justice system, and to help Par- But when it comes to the defence directly involved; his staff seem- will of Parliament. In our view, not concerned with fulfilling the liament maintain accountability file, you wouldn’t know it. ingly stood an unending vigil on this is exactly what may be hap- will of Parliament in a meaning- over the military, to ensure that Parliamentary supremacy its parliamentary development. pening concerning Bill C-15, and ful way, or in following through the military remains subordi- begets tremendous responsibil- On June 19, 2013 Bill C-15 this affront represents an undis- to ensure that critical enhance- nate to parliamentary authority. ity, and demands that Parliament received her Majesty’s approval, guised challenge to the suprema- ments are made for the better- An inspector general could also exercise its oversight function, at and the following year several cy of Parliament. ment of our men and women in provide independent oversight, least from time to time. How- JAG officers received Meritorious Bill C-77 is another example. uniform. With 200 or more full review and coordination of com- ever, Canada’s Parliament has, Service Medals (Military Divi- It received Royal Assent on June time JAG lawyers on the payroll plaints made under the grievance for years, largely been absent in sion) from the Governor General 21, 2019. This was supposed to be with the Canadian Forces, it process and would provide a office and unwilling to meaning- for their work on Bill C-15. At the another welcomed transforma- should not be such a daunting means for conducting inquiries fully engage in matters that affect time, it was widely recognized tional piece of legislation for the task for the Office of the Judge into the non-battle deaths of sol- the Canadian Armed Forces. as important and transforma- military justice system. Among Advocate General to put into diers, where the death appears Sometimes the will of Parliament tional; yet for reasons unknown, other significant reforms to the place supporting regulations. Yet to have arisen out of, or in the is completely ignored, without a central and important legisla- military justice system, it sought the delays continue to astound course of the members’ military consequence. tive change, which has already to provide rights to members of and the will of Parliament is service. Disappointingly when Par- received the Queen’s blessing, has the military who were victims of again playing second fiddle. Parliament needs to exercise liament does chose to engage, been left to dangle in the wind. crime and abolished the ancient A third example: under section its supremacy over the Canadian legislative changes are slow to For example, Bill C-15 was and most unfair summary trial 96 of Bill C-25, an independent Armed Forces, by calling for materialize, if at all. meant to improve the broken Ca- process. review of the National Defence an independent review of the On June 19, 2013, more nadian Forces grievance process, Disappointingly, in the year Act must be conducted every five National Defence Act. More- than seven years ago, Bill C-15 by giving the chief of defence since receiving Royal Assent years. The last review, conducted over, Parliament should create received Royal Assent. Despite staff the power to “reinstate” a none of this bill has come into by retired Justice Patrick LeSage an office of the Canadian Forces this exaggerated passage of time, member as a grievance remedy. force. None. The reason: JAG offi- was tabled in Parliament on June Inspector General, that would some of the amendments have yet This would allow the chief to cers are busy developing support- 8, 2012—more than eight years enable in-house expertise to to come into force, many of which place an aggrieved member in a ing regulations. This means that, ago! This begs the question: why maintain oversight and account- involve strengthening the military position they would have been in the interim, members of the hasn’t Defence Minister Harjit ability over Canada’s military, justice system. had an injustice not occurred— Canadian Forces are still being Sajjan ordered an independent regular and reserves. It could also As with all pieces of legisla- akin to a tort remedy. Yet, this made to face archaic and uncon- review in the past three years? provide serving members and tion, Bill C-15 went through straightforward improvement has stitutional summary trials, where It is incumbent on Parlia- military families with access to extensive consultations, includ- yet to be put into force, and for no their rights to legal counsel and ment to exercise its oversight an independent body to address ing multi-day debates before the apparent reason. right to a fair trial do not exist, all over the military justice system, the current desolate military Standing Committee on National When it comes to legislation the while facing the possibility of a role that they are failing to grievance system and to conduct Defence, the Senate Committee coming into force, timelines are true penal consequences, includ- fulfill. Parliament should con- inquiries into non-battle deaths of on National Defence, parliamen- important. Under sections 2-3 ing a loss of liberty and criminal sider establishing an Office of soldiers. tary hearings, multiple written of the Statutes Repeal Act S.C. record. the Inspector General, which is Michel Drapeau and Joshua submissions by high ranking 2008, any parts of an Act not put Failure to act on this impor- common among our allies such Juneau are administrative law- officials, academics and experts into force after nine years will be tant piece of legislation gives the as Australia, Germany and the yers in Ottawa. in military law—national and repealed. In this way, troublingly, impression that the Canadian U.S.A. The principal duty would The Hill Times 6 MONDAY, AUGUST 31, 2020 | THE HILL TIMES Opinion

CBC has the professional production capacity and, most Make CBC television relevant importantly, the delivery mecha- nism to make this possible in a seamless way. Programming will be produced locally and shared on a rotational basis to promote by helping the performing arts intra-Canadian understanding. This could dovetail neatly with CBC’s emerging digital capacity. ans, helping to build our brand Heritage Minister It would make far more sense CBC television on the world stage and keeping Steven Guilbeault than piecing out tiny sums to indi- an important part of our com- has been assigned by vidual groups. The aggregated ef- has been a lame mercial infrastructure healthy by the prime minister to fort would pack a powerful punch using the network to support the strengthen the CBC’s on the Internet. duck for many hardworking (and largely small-c regional mandate With planning and development, years; broadcasting conservative) performing arts. and have it broadcast this programming can be sold to In the Broadcasting Act of more local news. The audiences in burgeoning economies Canada’s performing 1991, the mandate of the CBC broadcaster should be of Southeast Asia and others. states that “the Canadian Broad- providing a platform for Government, which has been arts will give the casting Corporation, as the na- local performing arts as generous with other industries, tional public broadcaster, should well, writes former MP should be expected to pitch in to corporation new life. provide radio and television ser- Dorothy Dobbie. The help the companies weather the vices incorporating a wide range Hill Times photograph by losses that the spring shutdown of programming that informs, Andrew Meade imposed on all of them. This enlightens and entertains.” should be looked at as an invest- The mandate lists three ment, not a handout. of its seven priorities as: “be Professional digital/television predominantly and distinctively and operational business spheres. away. If they do open, it will be won’t end live performances; Canadian, reflect Canada and its They also offer opportunities for with sharply-curtailed revenues people need to be with people, regions to national and regional the development of trades and from audiences sticking to social and the live performances will audiences, while serving the skills, employing people to build distancing codes. return. But CBC television has special needs of those regions; sets, make costumes, create and CBC television can become an been a lame duck for many years, actively contribute to the flow repair musical instruments, and important vector for recovery, and thinking of itself as in competi- Dorothy Dobbie and exchange of cultural expres- so on. The talent and enterprise by doing so the broadcaster can tion with the private broadcast- Opinion sion; and contribute to shared they nurture and the atmosphere regain much of its original man- ers. It is not. national consciousness and their presence creates in our com- date. Each individual company Becoming the broadcaster for identity.” munities encourage innovations will devise ways to stay safe and Canada’s performing arts will give ongratulations to Erin O’Toole Nothing is more in tune with that extend to other business avoid spreading the virus—they the corporation new life. It will Con his recent ascension to the these values than the performing pursuits. are generally run by very intel- give Canadians new options. And Conservative throne. Now comes arts in Canada, particularly, the COVID-19 has hit them as ligent people—but the gigantic it will bring Canadian art into the the hard part—facing the reality regional symphony orchestras, hard or harder, on a proportional resources of CBC television can homes of many who cannot afford of promises made in the heat of the various theatre companies basis, as any other sector, includ- be put at their disposal on a re- to attend concerts or plays. battle. and the ballet and opera compa- ing the airlines, and certainly gional basis. Prime time viewing Dorothy Dobbie a former Erin has promised to “Defund nies, all of which serve the CBC harder than summer sports. It hours would be turned over to Progressive Conservative MP for the CBC,” but I have a better idea mandate in uniquely Canadian won’t be easy for them to recover this very important expression of Winnipeg South, as well as the for him, and one that could ulti- ways. until there is a vaccine for the CO- our Canadianism. (Daytime could former president of the Winni- mately be an investment with fis- These companies not only VID virus. Meanwhile, thousands remain as it currently is, basically peg Symphony Orchestra and a cal payoffs in the future. Instead provide for the expression of of artists, arts administrators, and devoted to kids, but here again former chair of the Canadian Arts of defunding CBC television, Canadian culture, they produce trades people are unemployed be- are opportunities for Canadian Summit 2015. let’s put it to work for Canadi- countless jobs in both the creative cause audiences are forced to stay culture). The Hill Times

ment has spent on other matters, Grey Cup: will iconic symbol of to say nothing of WE Charity. As we have seen with the return of baseball, hockey and basketball, sports can provide an outlet for Canadian culture be shuttered for good? those stuck at home as a result of the pandemic to fantasize or dream of better times. Experts House Committees aren’t in-depth, coherent business plan Grey Cup stories are legend- talk about the effect of COVID-19 The CFL would have meeting as a result of proroga- and the league returned to the ary. Canadians from across on mental health and wellness. tion, and opposition parties are drawing board. the country came together to Sports can be a helpful contribu- been a reminder working their way through piles A request for a $30-million celebrate Grey Cup traditions, tor to some form of normalcy. The of documents related to the WE loan from the Feds was turned whether their team was playing CFL could have helped. of kinder times for Charity controversy. The Con- down Aug. 17. That rejection or not. Through experience the John Hufnagel, long-time CFL Canadians isolated servative Party of Canada has proved to be the final nail in the league has learned that, for the quarterback and current presi- selected its new leader, Erin coffin of the 2020 CFL season. most part, teams with local com- dent and general manager of the by the COVID-19 O’Toole, who is now setting out to Without it, the bubble in Win- munity ownership, particularly in Calgary Stampeders, says the define himself before others do it nipeg within which teams would Western Canada, or local private CFL “has a great history in this pandemic. for him. play had to be cancelled. This ownership can prosper on and off country and has provided for so Given all of this perhaps there means the streak of awarding the the field. But in a time of a pan- many people.” He hopes the CFL is time to return to an issue that Grey Cup each year since 1909, demic, financial help was needed can “learn from it and become a received scant attention: that the except from the years 1916-1919, to carry on. better league for it.” Grey Cup, emblematic of suprem- comes to an end. None of this Under Commissioner Randy As Postmedia sports writer acy in Canadian football, will not bodes well for the CFL’s future. Ambrosie, expansion to Atlantic Scott Stinson pointed out, the be awarded this year. Which of The CFL, which came about Canada with the Atlantic Schoo- league has had shaky finances course prompts the question of in 1958 with the merger of the ners was being considered but is even in good times, but it is too whether the Canadian Football Big 4 and the Western Interpro- now on hold. bad the Trudeau government League will survive. vincial Football Union, has had a For the 2020 schedule, the missed this opportunity to pro- The CFL’s application for rocky history. But it has survived league had arranged a bubble vide support to an iconic symbol a $30-million federal loan the through years, both good and environment in Winnipeg, an ap- that lies squarely at the inter- Bruce Carson league needed to pursue this bad. It has brought together proach that has worked well for section of sports and culture in Canada. The question now is, will Opinion COVID-19 season was rejected. Canadians from coast to coast to both the NHL and NBA. All that The league first approached the coast once a year, enduring frosty was needed was the loan from Ot- the league return in 2021? Commons Finance Committee, winds and snow to participate tawa to make it all come together. Bruce Carson worked in the he dust has settled on a num- setting out a request for $150-mil- in what the late Globe and Mail It may have been a surprise offices of Brian Mulroney and Ste- Tber of issues as we wait for lion to keep it in business in 2020. sportswriter Dick Beddoes con- at least for some that the request phen Harper and is an unabashed Prime Minister Trudeau’s Sept. 23 Unfortunately we are told that stantly referred to as Canada’s was rejected, especially given the CFL fan. Speech from the Throne. request was not supported by an Grand National Drunk. amounts of money the govern- The Hill Times THE HILL TIMES | MONDAY, AUGUST 31, 2020 7 Opinion A new O’Toole for the main event

There is an explanation for Erin O’Toole’s ideological versatility: politics, like the Olympics, is comprised of many events.

Michael Harris Harris

ALIFAX—Has anyone else Hnoticed that counting votes has suddenly become more com- plex than quantum mechanics? The species can land a space- craft on Mars, but is dumb- founded by counting 175,000 votes at a leadership convention. For seven, miserable hours, the CPC gaslighted Canadians with a pathetic explanation: the machine designed to open the envelopes containing ballots ate their home- work. After campaigning for the party The story was that the paper, leadership as a 'true blue' the envelopes and the electronic conservative, Tory Leader Erin envelope opener quarrelled. O'Toole is promising to make the So thousands of ballots were party more welcoming to non- defaced, and had to be either traditional conservatives. The Hill repaired by taping them back Times photograph by Andrew Meade together, or remarked. This was all done at CPC of- fices, not the convention centre. There were few in attendance there, and as in 2017, there was pears that as humankind masters Erin O’Toole used to be known makes room for and respects the party to make more room in the no formal audit of the result by super-computers and the stars, as a moderate when he was a pro-lifers that assisted in get- tent—just like Peter MacKay Deloitte. Thousands of ballots simple arithmetic has become cabinet minister in Stephen ting him elected as leader….As wanted to do. There is more than may have been shredded. an inscrutable riddle. A modest Harper’s government. He also ran the results show, pro-lifers who a little sucking and blowing go- Are Canadians really to be- prediction about this November’s as a moderate in the 2017 leader- supported both Leslyn Lewis and ing on here. The Harper cabinet lieve that the CPC went in front presidential election: if Ameri- ship race, where he came in third. Derek Sloan were influential in minister who voted for the Zero of a national television audience cans vote by the millions using It must be remembered that when getting Mr. O’Toole the support Tolerance for Barbaric Cultural to choose, and then to showcase, mail-in ballots, the result may talking about the CPC, “moderate” needed to win.” Practises Act, now wants Canadi- their new leader without ever not be known for weeks, if not does not mean what it means in What the group would like ans to believe he is a champion of performing a test-run on their months. It could easily end with other contexts. from the new leader is public sup- tolerance. envelope-opening technology? Trump-stacked courts, not voters, This time around, O’Toole port for the four principles laid There is an explanation for A child going into a local music picking the president. apparently changed his spots, out by candidate Leslyn Lewis to O’Toole’s ideological versatil- festival practises his violin before Think of all the oddities about portraying himself as a “true-blue” guide party policy on the abortion ity. Politics, like the Olympics, the big day. Did the Conservatives the CPC leadership result. For Conservative, as opposed to Peter issue: banning sex-selective and is comprised of many events. actually feed that first envelope starters, if it had been an exercise MacKay’s pinkish progressivism. international abortions, an end to O’Toole adopted one pose for into the machine at Show Time? in first-past-the- post democ- By kicking off his campaign last coercive abortions, and more sup- the party leadership, “true blue” The old normal was much racy, Peter MacKay would be the January in Calgary, the Ontario port for pregnancy care centres. conservatism, realizing that it was simpler: on election night, mil- leader today, just as Maxime Ber- MP served notice that he was Some of that is contained in an exercise in playing to the pas- lions of votes were counted and nier would have been the leader playing to the party’s social con- Bill C-233. That is the private sions of the base. the result was announced. Now, in 2017. servative base, stinking albatross- member’s bill put up by CPC MP Having won that event, with technology that borders on By using a ranked ballot sys- es be damned. Cathay Wagantall, which called O’Toole now faces an eventual the magical, Elections Canada tem, tiny CPC riding associations But after winning the leader- for an end to sex-selective abor- federal election in front of a far says they might have to hold the got exactly the same number of ship, O’Toole delivered the speech tion. wider audience. In that event, his next federal election over a two- points as others with thousands of one might have expected from Whether pro-life groups get leadership persona is actually day period. If millions of people members. It made for strange out- Peter MacKay had he prevailed. what they want depends on which a liability. So now he has found vote by mail-in ballot, you will be comes in 2017 and again in 2020. Again sounding like a moderate, Erin O’Toole turns out to be the his compassionate conserva- able to grow a beard awaiting the A unilingual anglophone, he talked about being pro-choice real person. The man who ran in tism. Erin O’Toole has not grown results. Leslyn Lewis, was somehow able in the abortion debate, and willing the leadership campaign was very more inclusive, just ambitiously Florida in 2000, the CPC to get 10 percent of the points to march in gay-pride parades. much the kind of politician who pragmatic faced with a different national leadership in 2017, the assigned to Quebec. Picture a A bit of a curve-ball. One of his could support Bill C-233, the one political event. Ontario PC provincial leadership unilingual francophone picking first congratulations came from who vowed to fight lefty cancel It remains to be seen how the in 2018, the Iowa caucuses in up 10 percent of the points as- a group that made their expecta- culture, and vanquish Justin hard core social conservatives 2019, and now in 2020, the CPC signed to Alberta, and the point is tions of the new leader crystal Trudeau. in his party will judge the new national leadership again—all delivered. Weird. clear. The pro-life group We Need But the guy who won the race leader’s political flexibility. shit-shows. But nothing was as weird as a Law wrote this to O’Toole: now wants to be described as Michael Harris is an award- From hanging chads to ballot- the winner’s victory speech trans- “Mr. O’Toole needs to ensure more inclusive, someone who winning journalist and author. eating envelope openers, it ap- formation. that the Conservative Party plans to move the pegs of the The Hill Times 8 MONDAY, AUGUST 31, 2020 | THE HILL TIMES

EDITOR Kate Malloy MANAGING EDITOR Charelle Evelyn PUBLISHED EVERY MONDAY AND WEDNESDAY BY PUBLISHERS Anne Marie Creskey, DEPUTY EDITORS Peter Mazereeuw, Laura Ryckewaert HILL TIMES PUBLISHING INC. Jim Creskey, Ross Dickson ASSISTANT DEPUTY EDITOR Abbas Rana 246 Queen Street, Ottawa, Ontario K1P 5E4 GENERAL MANAGER, CFO Andrew Morrow DIGITAL EDITOR Beatrice Paez

Editorial Letters to the Editor Canada needs We need Canada to help more from Bill Blair strengthen vulnerable uch has been asked of Bill Blair, according to reporting from The Canadian MCanada’s public safety minister, Press, some of the gun control measures communities, says reader who has been entrusted with many of the enacted into law in 2019 won’t come into Liberal government’s most delicate files. effect until 2022, including expanded back- So far, little has been delivered. ground checks for those who apply for Mr. Blair is ultimately responsible for en- firearms licences. Mr. Blair’s most recent suring that Canada’s national police agency, foray into gun control was a confusing the RCMP, makes real changes to eliminate mess: the weapons barred under the gov- police abuse of Black and Indigenous people ernment’s “assault rifle” ban seem to have by some of its officers. Prime Minister been selected arbitrarily, and a promised Justin Trudeau pronounced in mid-June buy-back program has yet to materialize. that “reforms need to happen quickly,” but The government has yet to meaningfully we’ve seen little evidence that any signifi- address Canada’s problematic Safe Third cant changes to the force have been made. Country Agreement with the United States, Certainly not enough to satisfy Carleton another file in Mr. Blair’s portfolio. The gov- University’s Institute of Criminology and ernment hasn’t resolved the loophole in the Criminal Justice, which announced on Aug. agreement that treats asylum seekers who 11 that it would no longer be arranging cross between border points better than placements for its students with the RCMP those who present themselves at an official and Correctional Services Canada, as well crossing. The Federal Court ruled on July 22 as the Ottawa Police and Ottawa-Carleton that the agreement violated Canada’s Char- Detention Centre. The Institute’s announce- ter of Rights and Freedoms, but rather than ment pointed to comments from RCMP fixing it, the government has challenged brass denying that system racism existed in that ruling in court. the police force, and said Canadian police Mr. Blair also had to be lobbied hard forces did not have the “leadership capacity” by members of his own Liberal caucus to to live up to their promises to change. reverse his decision to launch an indepen- Mr. Blair is responsible for making dent review into this spring’s mass-shoot- good on the government’s promise to end ing in Nova Scotia, and instead proceed solitary confinement for prison inmates; with a more transparent public inquiry as Vice reported last week that Correctional Nova Scotia’s Liberal MPs, the province’s Services Canada hadn’t been tracking Senators, and scores of its citizens had any information about its use of solitary demanded. confinement for prisoners, according to an These are not trivial files. Mr. Blair is, independent panel struck to monitor those by all accounts, a competent and capable reforms, which said Mr. Blair’s office had leader and administrator; it’s time he ignored its attempts to discuss the matter. delivered some of the positive changes he Mr. Blair is the point person for the has promised. government’s gun control agenda; yet, The Hill Times

Karina Gould is Canada's minister of international development. She announced $159.5-million in funding for international efforts to fight the COVID-19 pandemic on April 5. The Hill Times photograph by Andrew Meade

esults Canada’s #LeaveNoOneBehind much harder to come by at the best of Rcampaign is about removing the bar- times. With COVID-19, these are obvi- riers that prevent people living in poverty ously far from the best of times. We from accessing the opportunities they need to ensure that those most vulner- need to thrive. Issues like health inequity, able have the same access to COVID-19 climate change, emergencies, economic health innovations as everyone else: inequality, and now the COVID-19 access to technologies, medicines, di- pandemic are evidence of the inequali- agnostics, treatments, and vaccines. We ties that cause vulnerable populations to need Canada to help strengthen vulner- suffer the most. With the deadline of the able communities. Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) Canada should invest at least one per and the ambition to end extreme poverty cent of its COVID-19 response in new and less than 10 years away, we need to try additional aid towards a global response, harder to ensure that no one is left behind along with a permanent increase in Cana- as we strive for equality for all. dian aid, official development assistance Humanitarian emergencies adversely (ODA). This aid will not only positively impact health services, water, sanita- impact the most vulnerable but also help tion, hygiene services, education, and keep us safe. In the world today, we are food security. Malnutrition is increasing. only as strong—and safe—as our weakest Disruptions in education are increas- links. ing—even here in Canada. Think about Marnie Shaw places in the world where education is Calgary, Alta.

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often stealing Scheer’s limelight. Hence, poor Scheer was compet- Erin O’Toole’s ghost problem ing not only with the Liberals, but with his party’s own past. At any rate, now it’s O’Toole’s Former collection of right-wing factions turn to be compared to Harper. Erin O’Toole has prime and tribes who uncomfortably Will he fare any better than to prove he can minister co-inhabit the same political club. Scheer? I think he will. Stephen So inevitably, the post-Harper With his blunt blandness and unify conservative Harper still Conservatives faced a personality the military toughness of his looms large crisis. What were they? What did persona, the new Conservative factions and lead over the they stand for? Where were they leader is somewhat reminiscent Conservative going? of Harper, at least on a superficial pragmatically if he Party that To answer those questions, the level. That should help. he founded Conservatives needed another Yet, if he wants to assume wants to move the with Peter Harper. Yet, finding someone to the Harperian mantle, he still Conservative Party MacKay in fill Harper’s shoes, someone who has much to prove. Like Harper, 2003. The possessed his skills, would not O’Toole needs to show he can past the ghost of Hill Times be easy. Certainly, his immedi- unify his ideologically-diverse photograph ate replacement, Andrew Scheer, party, even if that means impos- Stephen Harper. by Andrew seemed to suffer in comparison to ing savage discipline; like Harper, Meade his predecessor. Whereas Harper he needs to prove that he can lead seemed tough, Scheer looked pragmatically, while at the same weak; whereas Harper seemed time keeping his base energized; determined, Scheer looked inde- like Harper he needs to demon- cisive, whereas Harper had a repu- strate that he possesses a “killer tation for having a serious intellec- instinct” when waging political tual gravitas, Scheer just seemed campaigns. like a nice middle-class dad. That’s a tall task to be sure, Harper still wanders the halls of vative Party—into a well-disci- Nor did it help Scheer that the especially when you consider the Conservative Party, relent- plined election-winning machine. passing of time and the onset of a federal election could come lessly haunting his successors. But more than that, Harper also nostalgia was boosting Harper’s sooner rather than later. Gerry Nicholls Or to put that in more pro- imprinted his personality on this reputation. Ignoring Harper’s Mind you, the prospect of a Post-Partisan Pundit saic terms, long after Harper’s new entity. flaws and forgetting how he got quick election also gives O’Toole departure from the mortal coil of In a real sense, the Conserva- drubbed in the 2015 federal elec- a golden opportunity to exorcise politics, he is still the standard by tive Party was the Harper Party; tion, many Conservatives, disil- his Conservative party once for AKVILLE, ONT.—I don’t which Conservative leaders are his goals were the party’s goals, lusioned by Scheer’s lackluster all, ridding it of any ghosts that Owant to scare anybody out judged. his ideology was the party’s ideol- leadership, began pining for the might undermine his leadership. there, but newly-minted Conser- How could he not be? After all, ogy, his vision was the party’s vi- good old Harper days. All he has to do is beat Justin vative Party Leader Erin O’Toole Harper is basically the founding sion. And woe be to anybody who And it’s not as if Harper had Trudeau and the Liberals. has a serious ghost problem. father of the modern Conserva- challenged his authority. This is vanished. In fact, even in retire- That’s a feat even the great It’s true. According to an urban tive Party, as he miraculously why, after Harper left politics, the ment, he was writing books, Harper couldn’t achieve. legend (which I just made up a few forged together two erstwhile Conservatives lost their guiding giving speeches, appearing on Gerry Nicholls is a communi- seconds ago) the leadership spirit ferocious enemies—the Canadian and unifying force; Harperless, news shows, acting as the voice of cations consultant. of former prime minister Stephen Alliance and Progressive Conser- the Conservative Party is just a conservatism and, in the process, The Hill Times

Erin O'Toole, pictured speaking outside of the House of Commons alongside O’Toole’s dilemma Conservative MP Pierre Paul-Hus in 2018. Mr. O'Toole The longevity of a local politi- and his opposition to reopening was elected as the If Erin O’Toole really cian is still in the double digits. the abortion question. new Conservative Just ask Ottawa mayor Jim Wat- But O’Toole will also have to Party leader on Aug. wants to appeal son how many ministers on the stickhandle the demands within 23. The Hill Times federal and provincial level that his own party, as the radical right to non-traditional he has outlived. But party politics gained strength and visibility photograph by Andrew Meade Conservatives, he will is one place where the more ex- during the Conservative leader- perience you get, the more people ship race. have to cut ties with want to get rid of you. Tory pundits were lauding the Sloan had a 12-point plan on the first ballot, was directly Just look at how many people fact that a Black woman sur- on the issue. His first commit- attacked by her for claiming that social conservatives rabidly despised Hillary Clinton, passed Peter MacKay’s support ment was to promise to work social conservatism was like a even though she had more experi- in all western provinces. They with party grassroots to revoke “stinking albatross” around the and the far right. ence than any other candidate claimed that the support for Les- Conservative Party policy No. 70. neck of party in the last election. at the national and international lyn Lewis was testament to Tories’ That policy, slimly endorsed at At some point during the race, level. She wore her husband’s openness to diversity. their 2018 Halifax policy conven- one-third of Tory voters cast a warts, and then some. Hogwash. Lewis was a stalk- tion, states that “a Conservative ballot for Lewis. Clinton was also suffering ing horse for the anti-choice government will not support any Lewis, who has four degrees from the same swathe of sexism movement, which continues to legislation to regulate abortion.” including a master’s in envi- that came to the fore when Chrys- grow deep and strong roots in the Lewis was ranked No. 1 on ronmental science, opposes the tia Freeland was recently named Conservative party. the voter’s list recommended by carbon tax. She also received sup- finance minister. Multiple journal- The fact that a candidate for the anti-choice group RightNow. port during the race from the gun ists attacked Freeland’s lack of leadership, who could not speak Sloan was ranked second. O’Toole lobby. She and Sloan both oppose financial credentials. These same French, would get 20 per cent of was ranked third, and MacKay Canada’s current immigration journalists never questioned the the party’s vote on a first ballot came dead last. policy and Lewis promised to roll Sheila Copps bona fides of lawyers cum finance is truly frightening. When you RightNow describes itself as the back legalization of marijuana. Copps’ Corner ministers, like Jim Flaherty and couple her party support with political arm of the pro-life move- If O’Toole elevates her to a Ralph Goodale. Freeland, like that of Derek Sloan, the pair of ment and promotes a mandate to senior party position, he will be ministerial colleague Catherine proudly evangelical politicians work full-time to secure nominations playing right into the hands of TTAWA—It would be a McKenna, was dished up a partic- garnered 40 per cent of the Con- and elections for candidates who RightNow, whose stated intention Omistake to underestimate the ularly vitriolic dose of misogyny. servative Party’s 174,404 voters. oppose abortion. No surprise that is to re-criminalize abortion. electability of Erin O’Toole. O’Toole has a chance to shape That is scary. Lewis was their chosen candidate. During his victory speech, He has many things going for his brand, and in his early morn- Lewis is now being touted as Like Sloan, she does not sup- O’Toole promised to reach out to him, the first of which is that he is ing victory speech last week, he a new leading light in her party. port abortion and is opposed to a broad coalition of Canadians. To a relative unknown. These days, hit all the right buttons. He spoke That blows up O’Toole’s shoutout a government ban on conversion do so, he needs to visibly cut ties the shelf-life of a politician is at length about how to broaden to inclusivity on election night. therapy, a controversial practice with his own party’s radical right. generally one election. It used to the party base and invite those Her leadership transcendence to modify the sexual orientation Sheila Copps is a former Jean be that if you were doing a decent who have never voted Conserva- was driven by those who would of gays and lesbians. Chrétien-era cabinet minister and job, voters might keep you around tive to join him. He outlined his like to turn back the clock on is- MacKay, who ran behind a former deputy prime minister. for a second term. support of the LGBTQ community sues like abortion. Lewis in all western provinces The Hill Times 10 MONDAY, AUGUST 31, 2020 | THE HILL TIMES THE HILL TIMES | MONDAY, AUGUST 31, 2020 11 News News

Members of the Justice for Abdirahman New Statscan data group address thousands gathered on Parliament Hill in June ‘indispensable’ for a Black Lives Matter rally. The Hill times photograph by Andrew for understanding Meade systemic anti-Black

University of Calgary political racism, says professor science professor Malinda Smith helped Malinda Smith, professor of political science observed over a longer period of time, said StatsCan StatsCan has released a at the University of Calgary and the vice- Carl James, professor of education and se- gather and provost of equity, diversity, and inclusion at nior advisor on equity and representation at interpret Source: Statistics Canada: Canada’s Black population: Education, labour and resilience number of large-scale, the school. York University. the data in disaggregated studies on the Prof. Smith served on an advisory council “It would be good to look at this again the studies. created by Statistics Canada to help interpret five years from now, so we can see if there Photograph Black population in Canada the data. The data, Prof. Smith continued, “is have been changes. What accounts for courtesy of indispensable for understanding systemic those changes if there are changes? How Prof. Smith since early 2019. racism. What it helps you to see is the dis- can we know the extent to which issues we proportionate impact of a certain practice on identify now have been addressed? We can specific groups.” only know that if the data exists,” said Prof. Continued from page 1 Both the “breadth” and “depth” of the Sta- James, who was also a member of the panel. of a “single” Black community in Canada. tistics Canada studies make them particular- Statistics Canada began releasing the That belief exacerbates the effects of systemic ly valuable, said Afua Cooper, an historian, first set of data during Black History Month racism, and leads to policies and practices sociology professor at Dalhousie University, in February 2019. Titled “Diversity of the that fail to account for the unequal effect of and the coauthor of the university’s report Black population in Canada: An overview,” certain policies or practices, say Canadian on Lord Dalhousie’s history on slavery and the study focused primarily on demographic researchers. race. Prof. Cooper also served on the Statis- characteristics and sought to “highlight the “This data…is really important for us to tics Canada advisory panel. diversity of the Black population in terms of see the implications of racism and stereo- “I’m going ‘wow’ all the time,” Prof. Coo- their ethnic and cultural origins, places of types on the life chances and outcomes for per said, adding that the studies have been birth and languages,” the document reads. the Black Canadian population. Regardless incorporated into her teachings The studies collected data from people of background, educational achievement, The breadth of the new data allows for who self-identified as Black on Statistics who they are, the stereotype prevails,” said change, or lack of change, to be accurately Canada surveys. The first study shows that the Black popu- “There’s a lot of negative stereotypes of lation in Canada doubled in size between Black people as angry or violent. The find- 1996 and 2016, to 1.2-million people—rough- ings of the resilience study was that Black ly 3.5 per cent of the population. The Black people were more likely to be optimistic population is about a decade younger, on about the future. They thought about the average, than the population as a whole, with potential for change,” Prof. Smith told The a median age of 30. It also showed that just Hill Times. more than half of Black adults in Canada “Black youth have desires to get into were born in another country—170 different university, however they didn’t think it was countries in total. going to happen because of discrimination The second release came a year later, also and bias. But they have the highest aspira- during Black History Month, on Feb. 25, 2020, tions. I don’t think many Canadians think of a few weeks before COVID-19 lockdowns Black youth as having high aspirations for were imposed. It included two studies, both education,” she continued. focused more on socioeconomic factors such The study also said that “challenges fac- as education, employment, and income. ing the Black population may present them- The first study, titled “Canada’s Black selves differently within specific groups” Source: Statistics Canada: Diversity of the Black population in Canada: An overview population: Education, labour and resilience” such as differences between immigrants and said that “compared to the rest of the popula- non-immigrants in terms of postsecondary tion, employment rates remain low and the education. Black women born in Canada socioeconomic and family characteristics. The most recent Statistics Canada Despite the clear political incentive, Prof. prevalence of low-income is more common were more likely than women in the rest of Other factors not measured by the Census of release came on Aug. 13, and looked at the Cooper said these data sets show that Cana- among the Black population. the population to get at least a bachelor’s Population could be the source of these dif- changes in socioeconomic outcomes of the dian politicians and other institutions have “Despite these challenges, Black individu- degree, but Black immigrant women were ferences,” the study reads. Black population by generation, immigrant a duty to “ensure that Black people may be als have high rates of job satisfaction and significantly less likely than women in the “The education system was designed status, sex, and country of origin compared brought into the Charter.” high rates of resilience,” the study reads. rest of the population to get a postsecondary for particular kinds of students in particu- to the rest of the Canadian population “How are we going to make this data The study showed that from 2001 to 2016, degree. lar ways. It was not designed in a way that between 2001 and 2016. It provided many work and matter? It has to matter in the day- the Black population had unemployment The second study focused on the socio- would address, welcome, and make inclusive of the same findings as the previous studies to-day material life of Black people in this rates about four percentage points higher economic outcomes for Black youth. It found the experiences of Black students,” Prof. but was disaggregated to include more in- country. [Statistics Canada] has built a won- than the rest of the population. The find- that Black youth were as likely as other James said. formation, such as immigrant status, on the derful document. What kind of commitments ing was the same for both men and women. youth in the rest of the population to have For Prof. James, the explanation lies in same questions. do the federal government or other Cana- Even when an individual had postsecond- a high school diploma, but that Black youth the fact that Black youth tend to have worse Taken together, Prof. Cooper said, these dian institutions [have] to ensure that Black ary education, in 2016 the rate for the Black were less likely to have a postsecondary di- educational outcomes the longer their family studies send a message to Canadian political people may be brought into the Charter? population was 9.2 per cent compared to 5.3 plomas or degrees. It also found second- and has been in Canada. leaders and gives them a base of evidence to In criminal justice, in health, in education, per cent in the rest of the population. third-generation Black youth were less likely “That means those who have gone work from. [which] we have not experienced,” she said. Prof. Smith wrote on Twitter that the than a first-generation Black child to have a through the education system and have been “The 2016 census tells us that there’s “Is this just going to be another report resilience finding “does not surprise me. It postsecondary degree. socialized in Canadian society do not do as 1.2-million Black people. That’s a voting that sits on the shelf? It has to matter in the might surprise those inclined toward deficit “The gap between postsecondary gradu- well. That tells us something must be dealt bloc. In terms of political survival, you have lives of Black people,” said Prof. Cooper. stereotypes. There’s a fierce optimism among ation rates for Black youth and other youth if we’re going to address the issues of Black to take the Black population seriously,” she [email protected] Source: Statistics Canada: Unemployment rates among population aged 25 to 59 years, 2011 to 2016 the Black community in Canada.” remained after accounting for differences in students,” he said. said. The Hill Times 12 MONDAY, AUGUST 31, 2020 | THE HILL TIMES Opinion

Any policies Finance Minister Chrystia Freeland introduces to put Canada’s economy back on track must demonstrably improve economic and social well- being. This is no time for political pandering by throwing money at favoured groups, writes David Crane. The Hill Times photograph by Andrew Meade

confidence in Canada. Over the past nine months, he says, non- residents have sold $37-billion of Canadian equities while “bricks Canada’s economy is stalled, and mortar” foreign investment is “drying up as well.” This, he argues, “is not very encouraging for a country that has been run- ning current account deficits for and old-fashioned corporate 11 years running, meaning that Canada is reliant on foreign capi- tal and foreign confidence.” Over the past five years, he argues, “the country’s economic handouts won’t help us leadership has been cannabis (average annual growth of 10 per cent), condo construction (three But how do we get to a new, recovery we need? This is the new Is our system of carbon pricing per cent) and government (two It is time for our post-pandemic economy that cre- focus of the U.S. Federal Reserve, too low to drive investment in per cent).” Obviously cannabis ates opportunities for good jobs, with a now-extended period of zero-carbon projects? and condos are not a stable path business groups and the wealth creation needed low interest rates. Economist David Rosenberg, for future growth. and universities to to support the public goods and Or should we look to govern- who heads his own firm (Rosen- So what next? The good news kind of society we value? This is ments to run even bigger deficits, berg Research), is known as one is that it seems there is fiscal come up with serious the biggest challenge—to identify, when public debt is piling up? of the country’s more bearish room available to help the re- design and implement the poli- And will such spending spark a economists, but also as one of covery. In July the rating agency ideas rather than just cies that will be most effective in recovery? So far the government the most respected. So a recent S&P Global Ratings confirmed rolling out a national economic has been better at sustaining con- commentary of his on the weak Canada’s AAA rating (Germany lobbying for more recovery plan to relaunch our sumption than it has in boosting state of the economy should raise is the only other G7 country with economy. investment. And will the govern- serious concerns and deserves an AAA rating), arguing Canada’s favours or money. This will be the big test for the ment have the discipline to apply attention. international creditworthiness Trudeau government—and the tough tests of effectiveness on Over the past five years real was not at risk. opposition parties—as well as new spending or tax policies? per capita GDP has actually But we need much better dis- policymakers and the business Or should the focus be on ac- declined, as has business capital cussion of what to do next, and it community. For Finance Minister celerating structural changes in investment in new productive should be open. Rather than giv- Chrystia Freeland, it means the the economy to foster business capacity, while industrial produc- ing secret advice to the govern- policies she proposes must dem- investment and innovation and tion has shown little growth and ment, for example, Mark Carney onstrate how they will improve upgrade worker skills, while ad- export growth has been “stag- should enter the public discus- economic and social well-being. dressing the challenges of climate nant.” Meanwhile productivity sion. Parliamentary committees This is no time for political change, an aging population and growth, the source of sustained should seek the most insight- pandering by throwing money at workplace changes due to new income growth, has barely ful witnesses, not for partisan favoured groups. digital technologies, as well as budged, Rosenberg argues. endorsement but for the national David Crane Unfortunately, there is no easy building a new social contract Canada is also vulnerable due interest. It is time for our business Canada & the 21st Century answer on the most effective way that enables the bottom 20 per to a high level of household debt, groups and universities to come to relaunch the economy. Econo- cent in income and wealth to bet- what Rosenberg calls “a house- up with serious ideas rather than mists and policymakers are di- ter participate in what should a hold credit bubble of historic just lobbying for more favours or ORONTO—“This is a crisis vided on what to do. What we do fairer and more inclusive society? proportions.” A major correction money. Tlike no other and will have know is that the economy was in If we want to do these things, in housing prices with a weak We have to work our way out a recovery like no other,” warns trouble even before the pandemic do we know what will work recovery could have a domino of a major economic crisis where Gita Gopinatch, the head of hit and that the post-pandemic best? For example, how will we effect on the economy. Likewise, there are few obvious answers. research at the International economy will almost certainly be retrain workers to move from Canadian business is “a debt If we were fighting a war the Monetary Fund. The loss of output quite different from the pre-pan- one industry to another? There’s bubble of its own” but “instead of country would come together worldwide this year will run to demic economy. little analysis of the effectiveness this money going into business for the common interest. That is about US$12-trillion, with the So should we continue to rely of existing training programmes. investment to bolster productiv- where we are at today—we have global economy declining 4.9 per on the Bank of Canada and other The Trudeau government likes to ity, the proceeds went to buy back a shared interest in an economic cent in the worst downturn since central banks to keep on print- boast about its innovation strat- stock and provide the illusion of and social relaunch that works. the Great Depression, the IMF ing money to sustain ultra-low egy, but is it working? Business an earnings cycle.” David Crane can be reached at says in its most recent economic interest rates—and can low inter- has cut back on research, and At the same time, Rosenberg [email protected]. forecast. est rates even bring about the slowed investment in innovation. claims, foreigners have lost The Hill Times Be the first to know the day- to-day details of Canada’s wireless industry

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Contact Darryl Blackbird for a trial. Tel: 613-232-5952 ext. 263 • Email: [email protected] 14 MONDAY, AUGUST 31, 2020 | THE HILL TIMES News

Whoever becomes the MP for York Centre and Toronto Centre may have to win three campaigns Ontario MPP Baber, former within the span of a few months; a nomination contest, a byelection, and the next general federal elec- tion. There has been considerable speculation about the possibility senior staffer Lantsman, and of a snap fall election after Mr. Trudeau brings his Throne Speech to the House in September; it is also possible that the next general former candidate Willson election is still months away. A general election can be triggered at almost any time in a minority Parliament. The average life of minority governments is about 18 said to be eyeing Conservative months; the last federal election was held 10 months ago. Ms. Willson responded to questions from The Hill Times in writing, saying she expected the nomination in York Centre Conservative race in York Centre to be a “hotly contested one.” She said she would announce her future plans about running for the ‘We expect this to nomination in a few weeks. be a hotly contested “The nomination date has not yet been announced by the Con- nomination race, the servative Party, and I have not publicly announced my decision reason being that York regarding a subsequent run,” said Ms. Willson. “I am deeply hum- Centre is far from bled by the support I have found amongst Conservative Members being a “safe Liberal across the riding and will be seat,”’ says Rachel making an announcement in the coming weeks.” Willson, the most She described York Centre as “far from safe” for the Liberals. recent Conservative “Throughout nearly two years of door knocking to meet voters candidate in York Former senior Conservative Hill staffer Melissa Lantsman, left, Ontario PC MPP Roman Baber, and former Tory across York Centre, I spoke with Centre. candidate Rachel Willson are said to be considering a run for the Conservative nomination in the recently opened GTA thousands of committed Con- riding of York Centre. As of deadline last week, the party had not announced publicly when the nomination will be held. servative voters. Perhaps more Photograph courtesy of twitter, LinkedIn, and Wikipedia promising however, are the count- Continued from page 1 less voters I met who strongly communicator. She’s on television reverted back to being the third cent of the vote, Ms. Willson won dislike Justin Trudeau and his Liberal figures testing the waters a lot. She’s on CBC on regular party in the House after 2015. 36.7 per cent, NDP candidate Liberal government.” for seeking their party’s nomina- basis. She was my director of Currently, the NDP is the fourth Andrea Vasquez Jimenez won 9.8 She said the last federal elec- tion in the GTA riding. communications. She’s a success- largest party in the House, after per cent, and Green candidate tion result was mainly a reflec- In interviews with The Hill ful professional. She represents a the Liberals, Conservatives, and Rebecca Wood won 3.2 per cent. tion of Mr. Levitt’s popularity in Times, Conservative sources modern voice.” Bloc Québécois. As of last week, no party had the riding, and now that he’s not mentioned the names of former Ms. Lantsman is currently In 2015, Mr. Levitt bested Mr. fixed a nomination date for the running, the next election, will senior Conservative Hill staffer working for Enterprise, a gov- Adler by a margin of only 2.9 per riding. be a “prime” opportunity for the and media pundit Melissa Lants- ernment relations company as cent of the vote. Mr. Levitt won Toronto Centre also recently Conservatives to pick up this GTA man; former York Centre federal vice-president of national public 46.8 per cent of the vote while Mr. opened up after the resignation riding. Conservative candidate Rachel affairs. Prior to joining the com- Adler got 43.9 per cent. The third of former finance minister Bill “I believe that with the right Willson; and rookie PC York pany, she served in senior roles place NDP candidate Hal Ber- Morneau in mid-August. It is not candidate, we are likely to take it,” Centre MPP Roman Baber as at the provincial and federal level man garnered 7.3 per cent, and clear when the byelection will she wrote. among those who are consider- in the Stephen Harper govern- the fourth place Green candidate be called for that riding either. If Liberal politicians attacked ing a run in the byelection. Other ment and in the 2018 Ontario PC Constantine Kritsonis received byelections are called before the Ms. Willson in the 2019 election well known Conservatives are campaign that brought Doug Ford campaign over her public op- also expected to seek the party’s to power. Former senior position to abortion. Liberal MP nomination in this riding. After the 2019 federal elec- Conservative and minister Carolyn Bennett Former Stephen Harper-era tion, she co-wrote an article ministerial Hill (Toronto-St. Paul’s, Ont.) tweeted finance minister Joe Oliver, who along with another former senior staffer Melissa a video of Ms. Willson promising represented the neighbouring Conservative staffer, Jamie Lantsman, to try to advance anti-abortion riding of Eglinton-Lawrence, said Ellerton, chastising her party pictured with legislation. that York Centre is a winnable for failing to evolve on LGBTQ former finance Mr. Baber declined to com- riding for the Conservatives in the rights issues. minister Joe ment when reached by The Hill next byelection. In order to win The riding has opened up Oliver. Ms. Times last week on whether the riding, he said, the Conserva- after the resignation of two-term Lantsman is said he’s considering running at the tives need to field a top quality Liberal MP Michael Levitt, who to be considering federal level. He represents the candidate, and he described Ms. announced early last month that a run for the riding provincially, and the rid- Lantsman, his former director of he was stepping down to serve as Conservative ing boundaries federally and communication when he was the the president and CEO of Cana- nomination in provincially are the same. Mr. finance minister, as someone who dian Friends of Simon Wiesenthal York Centre. The Baber is the chair of the House could steal the riding from the Center, a Jewish Human Rights Hill Times file Justice Committee in the Ontario Liberals. organization. His resignation will photograph Legislature. Mr. Oliver said he did not be effective September 1. On the Liberal side, veteran know if Ms. Lantsman would run. York Centre was created in the Liberal political insider Bobby Another Conservative source told early 1900s. The Conservatives Walman and Gary Gladstone told The Hill Times that the former won the riding three times before The Hill Times they are seriously Hill staffer is considering throw- 1962, and only once after, in 2011. considering entering the nomina- ing her hat in the ring. By dead- In all other elections, the Liberals 1.8 per cent of the vote. Mr. Adler next general election, it is likely tion contest for their party. line last week, Ms. Lantsman did have carried the riding. did not seek re-election in 2019. that byelections for both York Mr. Walman is the former not respond to interview requests In 2011, Conservative Mark Rachel Willson, a director at a Centre and Toronto Centre will president and chief fundraiser from The Hill Times. Adler won the riding, but he lost national non-profit working to take place at the same time, given of the Ontario Liberal Fund, and “One name I think who would to Mr. Levitt in 2015. The 2011 increase youth involvement in that both ridings became vacant Gladstone is a former Liberal be terrific is Melissa Lantsman,” election was the worst election Canadian politics, ran as the at almost the same time. candidate in 2019 in the riding of said Mr. Oliver. “I’m just men- for the Liberals in their party’s Conservative candidate in the last According to Elections Cana- Thornhill, Ont. Other high profile tioning her name, I don’t know history, and they were reduced election. da, Prime Minister Justin Trudeau Liberals are also expected to whether she would run or not, but to third party status. The NDP In 2019, Mr. Levitt was re- (Papineau, Que.) has six months enter the contest. I would hope she would, should succeeded the Grits as the official elected by a margin of 13.5 per after a riding officially becomes [email protected] consider it because she’s a great opposition party after 2011 but cent of the vote. He won 50.2 per vacant to call a byelection. The Hill Times THE HILL TIMES | MONDAY, AUGUST 31, 2020 15 News ‘He’s not exactly a household name:’ Erin O’Toole’s ‘well-funded’ team ready for a fall election, say strategists

‘Canadian voters will Erin O’Toole will lead the Conservative need some time to get Party back into Parliament on to know him and feel Sept. 23 when the comfortable with him, government returns with a Speech from not only as the leader the Throne. The Hill Times photograph by of the opposition, Andrew Meade but as the leader of an alternative government,’ says strategist Geoff Norquay.

Continued from page 1 Conservative leadership race on Aug. 23. Addressing Canadians in the early hours of Monday, Aug. 24, the new leader said the Con- servatives are ready if an election is called for the fall, saying Prime Minister Justin Trudeau “may be trying to trigger an early election.” Mr. O’Toole did not directly ad- dress a reporter’s question as to whether or not the Conservatives intend to vote against the Throne Speech, potentially triggering an election. “I’m here to fight for the well- being of Canadians across the country, and for better solutions, faster response, and excellence in government and ethical govern- ment,” he said. “We will assess the govern- ment going forward in all those criteria,” said Mr. O’Toole. “If Mr. Trudeau thinks he can play take place,” said veteran conser- they have no debt overhang— would to pull the plug himself, some games with a new leader vative strategist Geoff Norquay, a but, while the four leadership then I think we’ll be ready.” Spring election the best and force an election, we will be consultant at Earnscliffe Strategy candidates have been busy trying Mr. Coates said that in addi- option: EDA president ready, but I will also hold him to Group. to win, the party has been doing tion to having a good campaign Many Conservative Electoral account.” “We all know the Bloc wants very little to expand its appeal organization at the ready, the District Associations did not re- Mr. O’Toole said he raised the an election, they’ve been very and grow its base.” Conservative Party is well-funded spond to requests for comment issue of Western alienation with clear about that. The NDP is in a “Another factor is that provok- and will have “the financial re- from The Hill Times, but the presi- Mr. Trudeau during an Aug. 24 different position. They’ve been a ing an election while the country is sources to do what it takes.” dent of the Richmond Hill associa- discussion because the Liberals relatively reliable dance partner in the middle of a pandemic could The Conservatives, like every tion, Ted Leider, said they are in are planning a Throne Speech with the Liberals over the first provoke quite a negative reaction other party, would like to have good shape financially and could and an economic rebuilding plan. year of this minority, and they from Canadian voters,” he said. 338 candidates nominated before jump into a campaign quickly. “And if they continue to leave obviously want to continue to do “The final consideration for an election date is set. “We’re going to be putting that out the ability for our resource what they’ve been doing so far, Mr. O’Toole is that he needs some Carleton University Profes- same team together, and our cam- sector to get Canadian resources which is to negotiate, to trade off time to introduce himself to the sor Paul Wilson, who previously paign office is an old house that to market, we’re going to see their support for the government Canadian people—he’s not exact- worked for Stockwell Day and the landlord said he’ll keep for us more Western alienation, we’re for policy changes and policy ly a household name, and that’s Stephen Harper, told The Hill for the next election.” going to see less jobs and oppor- improvements that they would not a knock against him, that’s Times that “uncertainty is really “Not to boast, but we could tunity for Canadians in Ontario, like to see.” just the reality of the situation… significant—you have to assume start off tomorrow, and I think so we need to make sure that “I would expect that they Canadian voters will need some there’s going to be an election, we’d be in great shape from an Canada’s strength in natural would do that again,” said Mr. time to get to know him and feel and yet you don’t know, and you organizational point of view.” resources is part of that economic Norquay. “We haven’t seen what comfortable with him, not only could be consuming resources Eric Meinsner, president of the plan.” the government is intending to as the leader of the opposition, for something that doesn’t hap- West Nova Conservative Associa- “We can do that while reduc- propose on Employment Insur- but as the leader of an alternative pen.” tion, said a spring election would ing greenhouse gas emissions, but ance Reform, for example, so government.” Mr. Wilson was in Stockwell serve the Conservatives and the we have to be proud of what we based on that, the NDP may say The Conservative Party is in Day’s office in 2000 when he country best. produce here in Canada.” ‘we’ve taken a look at this and good shape, said Mike Coates, was first elected. Former Liberal “I think that it’s probably be On Aug. 25, Fred DeLorey was we’ll support you.’” who is corporate director and prime minister Jean Chrétien had best for Canadians and everybody appointed national campaign “More likely, they’ll say ‘good executive chairman of Rubicon a majority government, and it if we waited till spring,” he said. manager by Mr. O’Toole. try, but not nearly enough,’” he said. Strategy. wasn’t clear at that time when an A spring election would “A fall election is by no means “As for the Conservatives, the “Fred [DeLorey] has put election would be called. give the party time to make Mr. a foregone conclusion—there party is in really good shape,” said together a national organiza- “And we started all of our O’Toole more well known outside are a host of considerations and Mr. Norquay. “The upped their tion which I think can be quickly preparations, which were going of Conservative circles, he said. negotiations that might take seat count by 19 seats in the last converted into a campaign team,” on before he was elected leader,” [email protected] place, and indeed will have to election, the budget is balanced, said Mr. Coates. “But if Trudeau said Mr. Wilson. The Hill Times 16 MONDAY, AUGUST 31, 2020 | THE HILL TIMES News

behalf,”said Mr. Lake. “So there was kind of that interesting con- 29 of 92 Conservative MPs failed to versation we had, which I thought kind of strengthened the unity aspect, and we were running a campaign centred around Peter deliver their own ridings to their as a unifier of the country—uni- fier of the party and unifier of the country.” Mr. Lake also pointed out that endorsed leadership candidate his riding association members had access to him and it was public information that he had Conservative endorsed Mr. MacKay. Caucus endorsements MP Erin Ms. Gladu said that when MPs O'Toole won endorse a specific leadership in a leadership the party's candidate, there’s always an ex- leadership pectation that they will get a high election only serve election on profile position in the shadow as a public relations Aug. 23, cabinet. But, at the same time, besting she said, Mr. O’Toole has to bring tool to suggest second place the party together, and will likely candidate accommodate MPs who did not momentum, says Peter support him or were in his rival’s MacKay. Mr. camp during the leadership. As of veteran Conservative O'Toole had deadline last week, Mr. O’Toole received the had not announced his shadow political insider Tim endorsement cabinet. Powers. of 38 “In politics, when you support Conservative somebody, you expect that you’re MPs and going to be given something in Continued from page 1 three return, and so I would expect that the people that did support New leader Erin O’Toole (Dur- Senators. The Hill him [Mr. O’Toole) would have ham, Ont.) scored a come-from- a role in shadow cabinet. And behind victory over Peter MacK- Times photograph that’s politics. [At the same time] ay, who had the endorsement of a he needs to make sure that they majority of the caucus members by Andrew Meade [Conservatives] can have unity in who backed a candidate. the party. And for that, he’s going “Caucus endorsements don’t to reach across to some of those necessarily translate to leader- who supported Peter MacKay ship wins,” said Conservative MP [and other candidates]. And obvi- Marilyn Gladu (Sarnia-Lambton, ously, we award on merit in the Ont.) in an interview. Conservative Party. So that’ll be a “If you can’t do that [deliver consideration, and there are some your own riding] then there’s not who didn’t endorse anyone, and much point [in endorsing a lead- the award there will be on merit ership candidate].” and focused on keeping the party Ms. Gladu also ran for the Lewis. Conservative MP Derek which means the leadership can- able to swing the contest; if it has united.” party’s top job, but dropped out Sloan (Hastings-Lennox and Add- didates signed up about 100,000 1,000, perhaps not. [email protected] because she was not able to ington, Ont.) failed to secure the new members, a significant “You have to look at the size The Hill Times meet the party’s required condi- support of any caucus colleagues. number considering the country of the membership to complete tions—3,000 endorsements, and The Conservatives used the has been dealing with COVID-19 that analysis,”said Mr. Lyle. “So $300,000 in fundraising—to enter preferential-ballot or ranked for months. if an MP had a low membership Erin O’Toole MP supporters the contest by the March 25 dead- ballot method of voting for their For strategic reasons, no can- number in the riding and then who did not deliver their ridings line. The pandemic forced her to leadership election. To cast their didate publicly announced how lost, that really says they’re lazy, cancel more than two-dozen of vote, party members ranked the many members each had signed honestly. …But if it’s big num- 1. Michael Barrett (Leeds-Grenville-Thousand her fundraising and campaign candidates from one to four, in up during the campaign. bers against big numbers and Islands-Rideau Lakes, Ont.) events, she said. She did not order of preference. No one was Mr. Mackay was heavily fa- you tried but you weren’t able to 2. Marc Dalton (Pitt Meadows-Maple Ridge, B.C.) endorse any candidate after drop- able to win 50 per cent-plus-one voured by Conservative insiders make the right connections, that’s 3. Robert Kitchen (Souris-Moose Mountain, Sask.) ping out of the race. of the votes on the first ballot, to win at the beginning of the a sort of different story.” 4. Brad Redekopp (Saskatoon West, Sask.) There are currently 121 MPs in so the candidate who received leadership campaign. By the time Conservative MP Mike Lake 5. Warren Steinley (Regina-Lewvan, Sask.) the Conservative caucus. Ninety- the fewest first-place votes —Mr. of the election, the contest was (Edmonton-Wetaskiwin, Alta.) 6. Gerald Soroka (Yellowhead, Alta.) two endorsed a candidate in the Sloan— was dropped, and his expected to be a nail-biter. In the endorsed Mr. MacKay, a Nova 7. Corey Tochor (Saskatoon-University, Sask.) leadership race. ballots were diverted to the can- end Mr. O’Toole won by a double- Scotia native, but he came in third 8. David Sweet (Flamborough-Glanbrook, Ont.) According to the riding-by-rid- didate they had ranked second digit margin. place in that Alberta riding. In 9. Tako van Popta (Langley-Aldergrove, B.C.) ing first ballot leadership election place. This process continued Political insiders and strate- an interview with The Hill Times, 10. Brad Vis (Mission-Matsqui-Fraser Canyon, B.C.) results, 28 of the 47 MPs who had until Mr. O’Toole—the winning gists said that caucus endorse- Mr. Lake said that he did not endorsed Mr. MacKay were able candidate— won 50 per cent-plus- ments are a good indication campaign for Mr. MacKay in the Peter MacKay supporters who to deliver their ridings for the for- one of the vote on the third ballot. of momentum in a leadership riding, and that not doing so was did not deliver their ridings mer Stephen Harper era cabinet The party members voted only contest. They also said that these a strategic decision. minister, while 18 failed to do so. one time, but ballots continued to endorsements show which leader- The riding has about 2,300 1. Scott Aitchison (Parry Sound-Muskoka, Ont.) Conservative MP Tony Baldi- be redistributed by dropping the ship candidate could lead a party members, said Mr. Lake, and was nelli (Niagara Falls, Ont.) had 2. Dean Allison (Niagara West, Ont.) last-place finisher until a clear to victory in a general election. worth the same in the contest as 3. John Barlow (Foothills, Alta.) endorsed Mr. MacKay, but in his winner emerged. The key to win is to sign up the ridings with far fewer members. 4. Blaine Calkins (Red Deer-Lacombe, Alta.) riding both Mr. MacKay and Mr. All 338 ridings across the most members, organize well, and Instead of making calls to 2,300 5.Colin Carrie (Oshawa, Ont.) O’Toole received exactly the same country were weighted equally have a good ground game. members, he chose to reach out 6. Michael Cooper (St. Albert-Edmonton, Alta.) number of votes—267 each— and were worth 100 points each, “It’s more to try and demon- to Atlantic Canada ridings where 7. Todd Doherty (Cariboo-Prince George, B.C.) while second place candidate Mr. whether they had one member or strate that, you know, you have the riding association member- 8. Randy Hoback (Prince Albert, Sask.) Sloan received 164 votes and Ms. 1,000, for a total of 33,800 points people who’ve won supporting ship numbers were lower, he 9. Matt Jeneroux (Edmonton Riverbend, Alta.) Lewis garnered 159 votes. to be captured. The leadership you, it’s about persuading some- said. 10. Mike Lake (Edmonton-Wetaskiwin, Alta.) Another 14 Senators had also contest winner needed at least body else,”said veteran political Campaigning in Atlantic rid- 11. Tom Lukiwski (Moose Jaw-Lake Centre- endorsed Mr. MacKay, giving 16,901 points, or just more than insider Tim Powers, vice-president ings helped build bridges between Lanigan, Sask.) him a total of 61 caucus endorse- 50 per cent of the maximum of Summa Strategies. “It’s not his party and the people living 12. Dave MacKenzie (Oxford, Ont.) ments. Senators are not elected points available. Mr. O’Toole won about expecting delivery on the in that region, he said, which is 13. Kelly McCauley (Edmonton West, Alta.) and don’t represent specific elec- by garnering 19,271 points, while ground, or certainly that’s been important because the Conserva- 14. Phil McColeman (Brantford-Brant, Ont.) toral ridings. second place Mr. MacKay ended the experience.” tives have not done well in the 15. Karen Vecchio (Elgin-Middlesex-London, Ont.) Thirty-eight MPs endorsed Mr. up with 14,528 points. The size of the party’s mem- Maritimes in the last two elec- 16. Kevin Waugh (Saskatoon-Grasswood, Sask.) O’Toole, and he won the most first About 270,000 party members bership in a riding should be tions. He said when Conserva- 17. David Yurdiga (Fort McMurray-Cold Lake, Alta.) 18. Bob Zimmer (Prince George-Peace River- place votes in 28 of those ridings. were eligible to vote in the leader- taken into account when evalu- tive Party members in Atlantic Northern Rockies, B.C.) Three Conservative Senators ship election. The deadline to ating the effort of an MP who Canada learned that an MP from also endorsed Mr. O’Toole. recruit new members to cast their couldn’t deliver a win there for Alberta was calling them, they Leslyn Lewis Supporters who Seven MPs endorsed Leslyn vote in the contest was May 15. their preferred candidate, said loved it. Lewis, and the Toronto lawyer When the leadership election offi- pollster Greg Lyle of Innovative “They thought it was really did not deliver their ridings won all but one of those MPs’ rid- cially started in January, the party Research. If a riding only has cool that an Albertan was phon- Scott Reid (Lanark-Frontenac-Kingston, Ont.) ings. No Senators endorsed Ms. had around 170,000 members, 50 members, the MP should be ing them on Peter MacKay’s THE HILL TIMES | MONDAY, AUGUST 31, 2020 17 News

earlier this year that incumbent their provincial majority—was MPs would be protected from chal- extinguished when he ruled out lenges if an election were called campaigning for the new leader, before June 2021. A nomination saying he’s “swamped” with CO- contest in those ridings would only VID-19 duties. be held if they fail to raise a certain That doesn’t preclude mem- amount of money by a set date. bers of Mr. Ford’s staff or cabinet Prof. Thomas added that local from lending support, the former members usually jockey for prime candidate said, noting the nearby consideration as a candidate ridings of Ajax and Pickering are when they sense an incumbent held by Ontario cabinet ministers may be ready to retire. Rod Phillips and Peter Bethlen- Ms. Ambler agreed that party falvy. membership, and local dynamics, Jaime Watt, executive chair- may influence her options. Asked man at Navigator and Conserva- if Ms. Lewis may face a contested tive strategist, said Mr. Ford has nomination, she said it was un- “picked a lane of co-operation” likely, given the strong show of in his decision not to “antago- support she garnered during the nize” the Liberal government Conservative Party members are pictured awaiting the results of the party's last leadership convention on May 27, leadership race. by campaigning for the Conser- 2017. Leslyn Lewis, top right, says she intends to run in the next election. Her campaign manager Steve Outhouse “She just has so many support- vatives, along with striking a says a riding in Ontario is the 'most likely option.' The Hill Times file photograph and courtesy of LinkedIn and Twitter ers now in the party, that I would friendly relationship with Deputy have to think that most people Prime Minister Chrystia Freeland would step away, and reconsider (University-Rosedale, Ont.) and if it meant having to run against being effusive in his praise of her. Leslyn Lewis,” she said. He said Mr. Ford may not want to upset that dynamic by giving his Leslyn Lewis has ‘earned’ Ford-friendly ridings a cabinet free rein to campaign for Ms. Lewis or his party’s federal possibility cousins. In 2015, Ms. Lewis ran unsuc- He said Ms. Lewis’ perfor- shot at solid blue riding cessfully as a replacement can- mance in itself has given her a didate for the party in Scarbor- national profile, suggesting she ough-Rouge Park, Ont., losing to may not necessarily need a boost Liberal MP Gary Anandasanga- from Mr. Ford, who has been en- after remarkable leadership ree. She was parachuted in at the joying high polling numbers amid last minute after the candidate, the pandemic. Jerry Bance, a service technician, “Her best bet is to try to run in was forced to drop out after he a solid Conservative riding that run, say party members was caught on camera peeing in a would … cause her the least grief. mug in a client’s home. She’s earned the right to have a Though she works as a lawyer good shot at a good riding,” he Almost any riding association Ms. Lewis is considering a run in Toronto, Ms. Lewis lives in said. “She’s established a national Leslyn Lewis’ team, that is serious about winning in out West, with an eye on a “safe Ajax, a swing seat in the 905 area profile, so that gives her a little bit the next election would be happy seat” in Calgary, her campaign that Conservatives will hope to of flexibility.” and the party, will to have her, said Ms. Ambler, a manager for the region told The win in the next election, said a Ms. Lewis ran as an unapolo- likely have to tread former MP, who ran for the Con- Western Standard. former 2019 Conservative candi- getic social conservative, and servatives in 2019 in the battle- The party holds all but one date, who spoke to The Hill Times anchored her campaign with the carefully to avoid ground riding of Mississauga- seat in Alberta, with the NDP on background. The riding is held slogan “no hidden agenda.” She Lakeshore, Ont. hanging onto Edmonton-Strath- by Liberal Whip Mark Holland, staked her position on social con- undermining the If Ms. Lewis is intent on secur- cona, so the province would be who had previously lost it in 2011 servative issues, outlining areas ing a seat immediately, she could friendly terrain for a Conserva- to the Conservatives’ Chris Alex- where she would seek to limit autonomy of the run in York Centre, Ont., said tive. ander, a former cabinet minister. support or measures on abor- riding associations Ms. Ambler, one of two seats for tion, including ending foreign aid which byelections could be called, New for health services that support and local volunteers or in Haldimand-Norfolk, Ont., Conservative abortion. which longtime Conservative MP Leader Erin Prof. Thomas said that Ms. who may already have Diane Finley will be vacating in O’Toole beat Lewis presented herself as the next election. York Centre has out Leslyn more than a “one-dimensional” candidates in mind, been a solidly red seat, but, in Lewis, who candidate, pointing to her ef- says Paul Thomas, 2011, went blue. dropped off forts to flesh out policy stances “At this point, no one really the second on the environment and the adjunct professor at knows if those byelections will ballot. The economy. Though the pandemic happen, or if they’ll be folded into Hill Times has eclipsed all other potential Carleton. a subsequent general election,” photograph election issues, he said, Ms. Lewis’ she said. by Andrew social conservatism may find Parliament is prorogued until Meade resonance in the GTA, particu- BY BEATRICE PAEZ Sept. 23, and a looming vote on larly in ridings that are racially the Throne Speech could trig- diverse and home to first-gener- eslyn Lewis’ remarkable ascent ger an election if all opposition ation Canadians or newcomers Lwithin the Conservative Party parties—the NDP, in particular— from the Chinese, Caribbean, or after her failed leadership bid oppose the Liberals’ agenda. At the same time, her team, The former candidate said the African diaspora. means she likely has a wide range Elections Canada is bracing for and the party, will likely have to leadership ballot results would “The Bible Belt is presumed to of ridings to choose from as she a general election, with plans tread carefully to avoid under- be a “poor proxy” for determin- be in Alberta, but there is a strong pursues a seat in the House, say underway for a two-day week- mining the autonomy of the ing which ridings would be a proportion of new Canadians who strategists and party members. But end vote, if the government riding associations and local safe seat for Ms. Lewis to pursue, Dr. Lewis might resonate with— support from local members on the collapses with the pandemic still volunteers who may already have since those ballots reflect a small but it all depends on what issues ground will be key in her run. raging. candidates in mind, said Paul slice of the broader electorate she are important,” he said. Ms. Lewis, who put in a head- A day after the race, Ms. Lewis Thomas, adjunct professor at must appeal to in a general elec- Ms. Lewis’ “no-hidden-agenda” turning performance as a relative reaffirmed that she intends to run Carleton University. tion. The 2019 electoral results, pitch, even among those who unknown, was knocked off the for office, but said she has yet to “It never leaves a good taste and those of other past elections, don’t identify as social conserva- ballot after the second round, but determine which riding she will with local activists if they feel offer a better indication. tives, gives her broad appeal, said not before she won more support be vying to represent. [the party is] pushing a candi- “Looking back at the elec- Ms. Ambler. than Erin O’Toole (Durham, Ont.), Steve Outhouse, her campaign date,” said Prof. Thomas. “I’d be toral results, the 905 seems to go “She said, ‘Look, here’s what now the leader, and former cabi- manager, said while Ms. Lewis looking at the dynamics on the in a bloc, one way or the other,” I stand for.’ She acknowledged net minister Peter MacKay in the has yet to rule out a run outside ground to make sure not to alien- the source said. “Ajax would be that Liberals always try to tell four western provinces. She also of Ontario, her home province is ate or aggravate the local party a good place to start; it’s one of voters that Conservatives have a captured one-third of the votes on the “most likely option.” establishment, given that a candi- those swing ridings, where she hidden agenda,” she said. “‘Here’s the second ballot. “We’re very flattered that date nomination is one of the few most likely has some establish- my agenda, read about it, listen to With the party abuzz about people have been reaching out [places of autonomy left].” ment in the community.” me talk about it.’ She’s just gonna her strong finish, Ms. Lewis and talking to her about running The party system also favours Any chance of a lift from continue doing that. I don’t think doesn’t have to limit her options in different places,” he told The incumbents, who typically have to Ontario Premier Doug Ford in she has to downplay or hide any- to a riding where she has roots, Hill Times on Aug. 26. “We want meet specific requirements to run the province—where Toronto and thing about herself.” said Stella Ambler, principal at to hear what their thoughts are; uncontested in their riding. For ex- the Greater Toronto Area handed [email protected] Earnscliffe Strategy Group. we’ll look at it riding by riding.” ample, the Conservatives decided the Progressive Conservatives The Hill Times 18 MONDAY, AUGUST 31, 2020 | THE HILL TIMES Opinion ECOWAS a model for regional problem-solving

A collection of West African So ECOWAS sent a delegation led by CLASSIFIEDS former Nigerian president Goodluck Jona- countries, each with their than to Mali to help restore constitutional order. (Nigeria, which has half the popula- Information and advertisement placement: own problems, have banded tion of ECOWAS, cannot give orders to 613-232-5952 • [email protected] the other members, but it is definitely first together to protect human among equals.) and civil rights. They At first Jonathan tried to persuade the military to put Keïta back in office, but the HOUSES FOR RENT FINANCIAL SERVICES FINANCIAL SERVICES BUSINESS OPPORTUNITY succeed more than they fail. elected Malian leader was already in their COZY HOME AWAY ATTN: ONTARIO INVENTORS!! hands and had agreed to renounce the FROM HOME Need Inventing Help? Call Davison!! presidency. Besides, the street in Bamako ONE BEDROOM HOME in Ideas Wanted! CALL DAVISON would not tolerate his return. At that point, Chelsea, QC. 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CALL Toll-Free 1-800- The Economic Community of West African frequently gets asked to help (Ivory Coast 947-0393 / 519-853-2157. !! WE ARE HERE TO HELP !! States (ECOWAS) doesn’t just work for in 2003, Liberia in 2003, Guinea-Bissau economic integration; it tries to defend in 2012, Mali in 2013, and The Gambia in democracy and prevent war among its 2017). Indeed, ECOWAS has become the member states, and often it succeeds. second most effective regional organiza- Right now it is trying to deal with a tion in the world. recent military coup in Mali, a country with Second, because the European Union If you washed your hands devastating poverty, runaway population definitely comes first. In a continent that growth, an Islamist insurgency, and a long has seen more destructive wars and more record of military take-overs: four since dreadful regimes than any other, the EU and your hand bled independence in 1960. Intervention is al- has brought its citizens two generations of ways a tricky business, because the tangled peace, considerable prosperity, and even a You would think ethnic and political details are different for common identity. each of the fifteen It has its flaws, member states. of course. The Pol- The Mali coup ish and Hungarian “THIS IS SERIOUS STUFF” of 18 August was governments are driven partly by not really friends Why are bleeding gums when frustration among of democracy, the military, who but it’s their EU you floss any different?? are taking heavy membership that casualties in the holds them back war against the from more extreme jihadi groups and actions. often go unpaid, The United but also by the Kingdom walked soldiers’ awareness out in a fit of Little that there would ECOWAS President Jean-Claude Kassi Brou Englander nation- be some civilian addressing the UN Security Council in New York in alism, but that support for a coup. 2018. The Economic Community of West African just shows that President Ibrahim States has become a beacon of hope for regional Charles De Gaulle Boubacar Keïta stability in the world, writes Gwynne Dyer. Photograph was right to veto won re-election by Evan Schneider, courtesy of the United Nations British member- Call to consult • 613 234 5758 last year in a fairly ship twice in the honest vote, but only because the opposi- 1960s. As he said, the English don’t have [email protected] • [email protected] tion parties were so badly split. a “European vocation”, and they probably Keïta did not get a majority of the vote, shouldn’t be allowed back in even if they and he got very few votes in the capital, ask. (The Scots, and maybe the Welsh, are Bamako, where the corruption of his a different matter.) entourage is most visible. Massive demon- It’s hard to build regional organizations strations against him began in the capital that defend democracy and prevent war, in June, and by last month ECOWAS was because they inevitably infringe on the ab- trying to mediate between him and the solute sovereignty of the state. The Associ- protesters. He dug his heels in; the soldiers ation of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) Have a house to rent or sell? saw their opportunity; and they acted. can’t bring itself to condemn genocide in The crowds in Bamako rejoiced at the coup, Burma, and the Organisation of Islamic but the fourteen other ECOWAS countries, Cooperation doesn’t even criticize China’s aware of how vulnerable they are to similar oppression of Muslim Uyghurs. Items or products to sell? events, took a different view. Almost every one The Organization of American States is of them has seen a coup or a civil war, and now still too much under US influence, the Af- that they mostly have elected civilian leaders rican Union is only a modest improvement Advertise them in The Hill Times their priority is to defend democracy. on the old Organisation of African Unity, Their concern deepened when Colonel and the Arab League is a joke in poor taste. Assimi Goita, leader of the National Com- ECOWAS often fails, but it is a beacon of mittee for the Salvation of the People – the hope. For information contact Kelly: coup leaders always choose names like Gwynne Dyer’s new book is Grow- that – announced that the military would ing Pains: The Future of Democracy (and [email protected] • 613-232-5952 stay in power for three years to carry out Work). ‘reforms’ before holding elections. The Hill Times THE HILL TIMES | MONDAY, AUGUST 31, 2020 19 Parliamentary Calendar Queens prof Kathy Brock breaks down the role of Parliament during a crisis

Prime Minster Justin Trudeau, House Leader Pablo Rodriguez, Procurement Minister Anita Anand, and Seniors Minister Deb Schulte pictured in the House of Commons for a meeting of the Special Committee on the COVID-19 Pandemic on May 13, 2020. Queen's University is hosting a webinar on how Parliament could have operated more effectively during the pandemic on Sept. 1. The Hill Times photograph by Andrew Meade

TUESDAY, SEPT. 1 from the first mid-mandate prorogation leader of the federal Green Party begins on Oct. 30, 2020, at the Ritz-Carlton, theme of “Bridging divides in the wake of a called by Prime Minister Justin Trudeau on today and will continue until Oct. 3. Toronto, hosted by Rick Mercer, former host global pandemic.” The forum will draw on Action, Accountability, and Good Gover- Aug. 18. The government will lay out its of The Rick Mercer Report. The CBC’s Anna emerging trends and lessons learned from nance During COVID—Queen’s University priorities in a throne speech. SATURDAY, OCT. 3 Maria Tremonti will be honoured. Tables the COVID-19 pandemic through biweekly hosts a webinar on “Action, Accountability, Politics and the Pen 2020: Digital Green Party Leader Announcement—The are $7,500 and tickets are $750. For more webinars. For more information or to regis- and Good Governance During COVID,” part Edition—Politics and the Pen will hold a Green Party of Canada is set to announce its information on tables and sponsorship ter, visit www.victoriaforum.ca. of its Contagion Cultures Lecture Series. virtual event on Wednesday, Sept. 23. Poli- new leader in a virtual event at 8 p.m. EST. opportunities, contact Josh Gurfinkel at Kathy Brock, professor and senior fellow, tics and the Pen is a highlight of political [email protected] or 416-955-0394. TUESDAY, JAN. 12, 2021 School of Policy Studies, will discuss the Ottawa’s social calendar and an important THURSDAY, OCT. 15 65th Commonwealth Parliamentary Confer- two roles of Parliament in supporting and TUESDAY, NOV. 3 annual fundraising event benefiting the PPF Testimonial Dinner and Awards—Join ence—One of the largest annual gatherings scrutinizing government action, and how Par- Writers’ Trust. The in-person event regularly the Public Policy Forum at the 33rd annual U.S. Presidential Election—The U.S. presi- of Commonwealth Parliamentarians will liament could have operated more effectively attracts 500 guests from Canada’s political event to network and celebrate as the dential election is scheduled for Tuesday, take place in August 2021 at the 65th during the crisis had the parties followed and literary circles. The 2020 digital event Public Policy Forum honours Canadians Nov. 3, 2020. U.S. President Donald Trump Commonwealth Parliamentary Conference a model similar to the one outlined in the will feature a special presentation of the who have made their mark on policy and is the Republican candidate and former (CPC) hosted by the CPA Canada Region in Emergencies Act. Tuesday, Sept. 1, from 4-5 20th Shaughnessy Cohen Prize as well as leadership. Anne McLellan and Senator vice-president Joe Biden is the Democratic Halifax. The annual flagship event will bring p.m. Registration is required, via queensu.ca. memorable moments from past galas. To Peter Harder will take their place among a candidate. The winner is scheduled to be together over 500 Parliamentarians, par- WEDNESDAY, SEPT. 2 date, Politics and the Pen has raised more cohort of other stellar Canadians who we’ve inaugurated on Jan. 20, 2021. liamentary staff and decision makers from than $4.5-million to support the programs honoured over the last 33 years, people across the Commonwealth for this unique 43rd FIPP World Media Congress—Susan of the Writers’ Trust. This year’s finalists who have dedicated themselves to mak- THURSDAY, NOV. 12 conference and networking opportunity. Goldberg, editor-in-chief of National Geo- are: Canada on the United Nations Security The conference will be hosted by the CPA ing Canada a better place through policy Liberal Party National Convention—The graphic and editorial director of National Council: A Small Power on a Large Scale, President (2019-2021), Hon. Anthony Rota, leadership and public service. The gala Liberal Party of Canada announced the Geographic Partners, is the latest speaker by Adam Chapnick; Peace and Good Order: MP, Speaker of the House of Commons. All event will be held on Thursday, Oct. 15, at 2020 Liberal National Convention will be to be confirmed for the 43rd FIPP World The Case for Indigenous Justice in Canada, eligible CPA Branches will be contacted with the Metro Toronto Convention Centre, 255 hosted in Ottawa, from Nov. 12-15. For Media Congress, which will take place by Harold R. Johnson; Claws of the Panda: further information and invitations. Front St. W., Toronto. more information, please contact: media@ online from Sept. 2-30. To find out more, Beijing’s Campaign of Influence and Intimi- The Parliamentary Calendar is a free liberal.ca, 613-627-2384. www.fippcongress.com and online here. dation in Canada, by Jonathan Manthorpe; SATURDAY, OCT. 24 events listing. Send in your political, TUESDAY, SEPT. 15 Truth Be Told: My Journey Through Life and FRIDAY, NOV. 13 cultural, diplomatic, or governmental event the Law, by Beverley McLachlin; and Cana- Parliamentary Press Gallery Dinner—The in a paragraph with all the relevant details International Day of Democracy—According dian Justice, Indigenous Injustice, by Kent Parliamentary Press Gallery Dinner happens on Bridging Divides in Wake of a Global under the subject line ‘Parliamentary Cal- to the United Nations, the International Day of Roach. For information and sponsorship, Saturday, Oct. 24, in the Sir John A. Macdon- Pandemic—The University of Victoria (UVic) endar’ to [email protected] by Wednes- Democracy provides an opportunity to review contact Julia Yu, events manager, at jyu@ ald Building on Wellington Street in Ottawa. and the Senate of Canada are bringing day at noon before the Monday paper or by the state of democracy around the world. writerstrust.com FRIDAY, OCT. 30 together change-makers at the Victoria Friday at noon for the Wednesday paper. We WEDNESDAY, SEPT. 23 SUNDAY, SEPT. 26 Forum to help generate solutions to some can’t guarantee inclusion of every event, CJF Awards Celebrating 30 Years of of the world’s most divisive problems. The but we will definitely do our best. Events Return of Parliament and Speech from the Green Party Leadership Online Voting Excellence in Journalism—The Canadian two-day virtual forum will be held Nov. can be updated daily online, too. Throne—The House of Commons will return Begins—Online voting to choose the next Journalism Foundation Awards will be held 13-14 to examine issues that fall under the The Hill Times

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