Publications Mail Agreement #40068926 possible,’ says Treasury Board President Jean-Yves Duclos. not only allow, but encourage teleworking whenever and wherever ‘The government ofCanada will beasflexible aspossible and will THIRTY-FIRST YEAR, NO.1712 Climbers F W at homeinthefaceofCOVID-19, work-from-home confusion COVID-19 contendwith as feds, unions,public service ‘changingSituation hourly’ Feature News outbreak, Parliamentarians who and calmfor those most at-risk with COVID-19 ‘Together we will beat this’: MPs urgecare BYSAMANTHA WRIGHT ALLEN BY MIKE LAPOINTE Mentalmatters: health Block4 p. heritagelist BOIE land onCentre not touch’: ‘Thou shalt est riskamidsttheCOVID-19 or theCanadiansat thegreat- minister for to stay minister forCanadianstostay ith callsfrom theprime Hill Coronavirus p.11 Public service

government departmentsaround confusing messagingfrom some federal publicservants regarding of someconcernsbeingraised by union leaderssay they areaware be positive, andbevery, very careful. listen tohealthprofessionals, try to of encouragement: trustthescience, once beforehave pragmatic words have beenimmunocompromised

C anada time for actionon three-digit suicide hotline ’ s P oliti sury Board asthey comeup. they’re raising issueswiththe Trea- telework conditions, andthat Hill Times cer survivors who spoke with The Though noneofthefourcan- c s

Diplomatic Diplomatic and felt they were person- Circles Continued onpage 12 Continued onpage13 G p.15 overnment Andrew Meade photograph by The HillTimes March 16. pandemic on the COVID-19 response to government’s update onthe to givean press conference Theatre fora National Press is picturedatthe Jean-Yves Duclos Treasury Board President ofthe

N #WorkFromHomepocalypse ews C I News Parliament late into the night hammered out deal to close how MPs andSenators ‘Decisive action was required’: News Relations Committee appearance at -China ambassador onpossibility of me to be there,’ says Chinese ‘They have noright to ask tal functionsofthelegislature sight—one ofthemostfundamen- sion withoutparliamentary over- spend money duringthesuspen- the government thepower to dinary pieceoflegislation togive Parliament, and anotherextraor- rushing two supplybillsthrough the nextday, onethat included single motionpassedintheHouse the growing COVID-19 pandemic. deal tosuspendParliament amid of MPsandtopstaffersstrucka see “more positive energy” being 12, CongPeiwu saidhewanted to at theChineseEmbassyonMarch the body. right” toaskhim to appearbefore lations Committeedon’thave “a on theSpecialCanada-China Re- BY PETER MAZEREEUW BY NEIL MOSS of March 12when asmallgroup t was about10:30onthenight That dealwas laidoutina The Hill TimesSpeaking withThe says MembersofParliament hina’s topdiplomat inOttawa p a p Legislation Canada-China relations er WEDNESDAY, MARCH18,2020$5.00 position ofdeliberately stalling often accusemembersoftheop- by allcaucuses. Government MPs ployed regularlyintheChamber from thepartisan tacticsem- ment were amarked departure bills andthesuspensionofParlia- following day. ately by theUpperChamber tion were passedalmostimmedi- where allfourpieces oflegisla- agreement through totheSenate, tion billforthenew NAFTA trade system. under Canada’sparliamentary sion, that’s good. Butifit’sjust take partinaroundtable discus- committee members. a possibilitythat’s beenfloated by hearing- committeemeeting, against theideaofappearingina by oppositionMPs, but hespoke struck inDecemberafterapush put intothecommittee, which was Surviving the Surviving the Lisa Van Dusen p.10 The speedy passageofthose It alsopushedtheimplementa- “I thinkifthey invite meto Continued onpage 6 Continued onpage7 p. 3 p.

2 WEDNESDAY, MARCH 18, 2020 | THE HILL TIMES

1:39 p.m. on March 16 to speak ‘Still have a few columns left in me’: Neil Heard on the Hill to reporters, 39 minutes after the speech was set to begin. Macdonald still has some writing to do “The PM’s press conference, by Neil Moss currently almost half an hour late, is characteristic of his govern- Neil ments response efforts thus far,” Macdonald tweeted Conservative MP Dan has more Albas. than 40 Mr. Trudeau is known to years of frequently run late for most press experience conferences as he and his team covering iron out last minute details. Coronavirus hits politics. “The PM has always been late The Hill for news conference. Maybe, in Times file this time of great destabilization photograph and anxiety, he is trying to main- home for the Hill tain some sense of normalcy,” tweeted the CBC’s Aaron Wherry. In the mean time on the public broadcaster, CBC’s Rosemary Barton and Vassy Kapelos had to fi ll the air as they waited for Mr. Trudeau to appear. “What possible excuse is there to start a pandemic press confer- ence 15 minutes late and counting …. especially after announcing it late yesterday afternoon,” Con- servative Senator Linda Frum Just because he left the In light of Sophie Grégoire chimed in. CBC, Neil Macdonald isn’t Trudeau testing positive for Cabinet min- done writing columns. He an- COVID-19 on March 12, he wrote isters hinted nounced on March 15 that he in terms of health care, “privilege on March 15 has started a blog on his per- has its privileges.” that there sonal website. “At the same time—and here would be an- “Still have a few columns left comes the kicker—I am not at nouncement in me. So I’ve added a blog to my all certain that, if I or any of my on tougher website,” Mr. Macdonald tweeted. aged relatives come down with barriers to The longtime CBC columnist the disease in the uncertain and travels enter- left the public broadcaster at the increasingly terrifying weeks to Assunta Gerretsen, the mother of Liberal MP , pictured here at ing Canada start of this year. In the past, he come, there will be ventilators for a House Committee meeting in 2016, recently tested positive for COVID-19 coming the covered Parliament Hill, as well us,” he wrote. after a cruise vacation. The Hill Times file photograph next day. as serving as a correspondent in “So the big question—the cru- Earlier Washington, D.C., and the Middle cial, life-or-death question as this fter returning to Canada retirement in 2018. The former To- on March 16, East. virus tears through the popula- Afollowing a cruise vacation, ronto mayor has held numerous Mr. Trudeau His fi rst blog post asked: “So. tion—will very quickly be this: Assunta Gerretsen, the mother cabinet fi les including minister held a tele- Who gets the ventilators?” who gets the ventilators?” of Liberal MP Mark Gerretsen, of defence, infrastructure, and conference tested positive for COVID-19. international trade, as well as the was nearly 40 with other Ms. Gerretsen returned to Can- president of the Treasury Board. minutes late G7 leaders ada last week. She and her hus- As of now, the ship is heading to a March 16 where he band, John Gerretsen, a former north on its way to Miami. Ear- press conference. briefed them Mike Rouleau named new vice chief of the MPP and Kingston mayor, lier this month, Canada’s public The Hill Times on the chang- were subsequently quarantined at health offi cials warned Canadi- photograph by es Canada defence staff CFB Trenton after disembarking ans against taking cruises. Andrew Meade would be on March 9 from the Grand Prin- making to try to prevent cess cruise in California, which Replacing outgoing Lieuten- the spread of COVID-19. During had more than 21 people test posi- ant-General Jean-Marc Lanthier his speech, Mr. Trudeau an- tive on a previous voyage. What’s keeping the PM? as vice chief of the defence staff nounced that Canada is restrict- “Mom has tested positive for will be Lieutenant-General Mike As Canadians waited for Jus- ing air travel to Canada from all COVID-19. She remains in quar- Rouleau. tin Trudeau to deliver one of the countries except for Canadian antine at CFB Trenton and has Lt.-Gen. Lanthier announced most consequential speeches of citizens, permanent residents, been moved to a new area and last week that he will retire in the his fi ve years in the Prime Minis- diplomats, and Americans, as well separated from Dad (he will not summer. ter’s Offi ce on the latest measures as a few others such as pilots. be tested unless he shows symp- Lt.-Gen. Rouleau has been the to respond to COVID-19, politicos His press conference the next toms),” tweeted Mr. Gerretsen, commander of the Canadian Joint wondered where the PM was. day had a more punctual start— who represents Kingston and the Operations Command (CJOC) Islands, Ont., on March 16. Mr. Trudeau walked down starting less than 10 minutes late. the front steps at since 2018, which oversees and “Other than a cough she has anticipates the operations of the no other symptoms and is in Rideau Cot- tage at Armed Forces. great spirits. Unfortunately this Replacing him as the com- has reset the clock on Dad’s 14- mander of CJOC will be Lieuten- day period and Mom will remain ant-General C.J. Coates, who is until she repeatedly tests nega- attempts to hold the deputy commander of Norad. tive,” he added. Lt.-Gen. Rouleau made Meanwhile, another Hillite pop-up St. Patricks Day headlines in 2016 when he pled is trying to get back to guilty for mistakingly fi ring a Canada while on a cruise concert ‘for the shut-ins’ weapon while deployed in Iraq, vacation. for which he was fi ned $2,000. Former Liberal As St. Patrick’s Day celebrations were He is Canada’s sixth vice MP and Senator Art muted in order to contain the spread of CO- chief of the defence staff Eggleton and his wife, VID-19, NDP MP Charlie Angus tried to hold a since 2017. The turnover in Camille Bacchus, are remote concert for those stuck at home. the post started during the on a South American “You have to supply your own Guinness,” investigation into then- cruise that is unable Mr. Angus tweeted on March 17. vice chief Mark Norman, to fi nd a port willing “For all those who can’t get out to St. who was replaced by Ron Lieutenant-General Mark Rouleau to accept the ship, Patrick’s Day celebrations I will be host- will be the sixth vice chief of the The Lloyd and Alain Parent— according to ing a Charlie Angus NDP Facebook Live defence staff since 2017. U.S. Air both of whom served in . The celebration of Irish music this afternoon,” NDP MP Charlie Angus took out his the position in an acting Force photograph by Philip Carter vessel doesn’t have he wrote, noting that he would be performing guitar on March 17 to bring some role—, and any cases of corona- songs from the Dubliners, the Clancy Broth- cheer to those in isolation. Photograph then Lt.-Gen. Lanthier. Liberal MP Andrew Leslie, who is virus, the former MP ers, and Christy Moore. courtesy of Twitter/Charlie Angus “An outstanding of- a retired lieutenant-general in the told the newspaper. The MP who since 2004 has represented fi cer who would make an . Mr. Eggleton was Timmins-James Bay, Ont., plays in a band, the Grievous Angels. In the past, he was a excellent CDS [chief of Lt.-Gen. Rouleau is the sev- a Liberal MP from member of L’Étranger, with Peter Duffi n and former NDP MP Andrew Cash. the defence staff]. Just like enth vice chief that Gen. Jona- 1993 to 2004, before However, technical diffi culties derailed the show. “Sorry folks. My computer has each of his six immediate than Vance has had as chief of the joining the Red Cham- COVID-19 and a safari server. It is not allowing me to go live. Gonna have a [Jame- predecessors as Vice Chief defence staff. ber in 2005 where he son’s] and get my life together,” Mr. Angus wrote on Facebook, later saying of the Defence Staff over the [email protected] sat until his mandatory he would make another attempt. last 5 years,” tweeted former The Hill Times THE HILL TIMES | WEDNESDAY, MARCH 18, 2020 3 Opinion

Suicide prevention was Canada’s not mentioned in the mandate letter Health Minister Patty approach Hajdu received from the prime minister in the fall, and Canada to suicide needs a national strategy, not just a suicide prevention prevention framework, writes Kathleen Finlay. The Hill Times photograph by is broken Andrew Meade

We need a new conversation, and phone number, to fi nd solutions and build a national strategy to save lives.

essential for combating suicide. The U.S., health advocates, and clinical experts, and Since I began my campaign to bring 988 to U.K., Australia, New Zealand, and dozens leaning heavily on virtual technology and Canada, I‘ve heard from dozens of people who of other countries have one. Canada does social media, the roundtable would engage have lost loved ones to suicide. I am one myself. not. In fact, Canada is the only member of Canadians in a frank and robust discus- We all want to see Canada become what it the G7 without such a strategy. Richard sion across the country. Its mission would should be: A world leader in preventing suicide Ramsay, one of Canada’s most respected be to raise awareness about the mental and a champion for a more healing and com- experts in suicide prevention, told me health crisis of suicide in Canada, seek passionate approach to mental health issues. advocates have been calling for a made-in- out the best prevention ideas at home and It’s time for our politicians to show the Kathleen Finlay Canada national strategy for more than 30 around the world, like 988, and produce the leadership to make that happen. Suicide prevention years. schema for a world-class suicide preven- Kathleen Finlay is a sexual trauma and Having a national strategy has been tion strategy that sets out national goals, mental health advocate and founder of The shown to be an indispensable building timelines for achievement, and reliable 988 Campaign for Canada. he ceaseless beat of suicide and the block in suicide prevention. In 2016, the funding commitments. The Hill Times Ttragedy it unleashes echo across United Kingdom set a national goal of Canada day after day. Every 24 hours, 11 reducing suicides by 10 per cent over the Canadians take their own lives. Four thou- next four years. In 2018, its suicide rate sand die by suicide, and another 100,000 was the lowest on record. attempt suicide every year. And here’s True, Canada has something it calls another shocker: If Nunavut were a coun- a federal framework for suicide preven- try, it would have the highest rate of male tion. But it’s missing so many essential suicide in the world. components that the framework is little Canada should be doing everything it more than a faint hologram of what a real can to prevent suicide. But the fact is we’re strategy looks like and does. not doing nearly as much as many other One of the benefi ts of a national strat- countries. And the status quo is simply not egy is that it typically refl ects a strong po- acceptable. litical will to combat suicide. On that front, That reality has come into sharp focus you have to really wonder about Canada’s for me in recent months. I have been cam- commitment. During the two English party paigning for a new idea that can make it leaders’ debates of the 2019 federal elec- faster and easier for those facing a mental tion, the subject of suicide was not raised health crisis to get help. It’s a new, easy-to- even once. remember three-digit number, 988, for the Nor is the word suicide mentioned in national suicide crisis hotline that would the mandate letter for the federal minister replace Canada’s existing 11-digit hotline. of health, which was issued following the Think of it as 911 for the brain. election. By contrast, the United Kingdom That new three-digit hotline system is has formally recognized the urgency of about to be rolled out in the . suicide as a public health crisis in that The move has the full support of the men- country by designating a minister of health tal health community and, surprisingly, whose responsibilities include suicide pre- the blessing of the U.S. Congress on a rare vention in her title. bipartisan basis. Experts like the idea be- Other shortcomings stand out. The cause it will get help to people faster when Public Health Agency of Canada, the fed- seconds count. The American Psychiatric eral body that has been given the lead for Association says it will also help reduce suicide prevention, doesn’t even display the the stigma that too often prevents people in number for Canada’s existing 11-digit sui- crisis from coming forward. cide prevention crisis line on its website. In But, in stark contrast to the strong sup- fact, you have to really dig to fi nd suicide port of U.S. politicians for 988 in that coun- mentioned anywhere on the agency’s site. try, Canada’s federal leaders don’t seem the Even then, the one and only reference is to least bit interested in it. Over the past six a study published 16 years ago. months, I’ve repeatedly reached out to the We have to do better. prime minister, the minister of health, and Canada should immediately set in mo- key cabinet ministers with responsibility for tion the process that will lead to the transi- Indigenous communities and other popula- tion to the 988 national suicide prevention tions at disproportionately high risk for sui- hotline. But beyond that, we need a more cide. Even after CTV National News anchor comprehensive approach to preventing Lisa LaFlamme called 988 “three numbers suicide. that could make all the difference,” they’ve That’s why I’m calling for the cre- been completely silent on the subject. ation of a national roundtable on suicide Dig a little deeper and you’ll discover prevention with funding from the federal that Canada is off-side on a lot of practices government. With representation from key other countries have adopted. stakeholders, including suicide survivors, The World Health Organization said families of loved ones taken by suicide, In- a national suicide prevention strategy is digenous and First Nations leaders, mental 4 WEDNESDAY, MARCH 18, 2020 | THE HILL TIMES News Centre Block renovation BOIE settles on reno feedback forum, initial list of sacred Centre Block spaces to preserve The Board of Internal Public Services Affairs Committee during the last and Procurement Parliament, said he was not con- Economy’s initial Canada’s assistant sulted specifi cally in the lead up to deputy minister the March 12 BOIE meeting, but list of spaces where for parliamentary said he’s encouraged that some infrastructure, Rob MPs at least have had a chance to it doesn’t want to Wright, centre, give input on construction plans. is pictured with “MPs, whose workplace it is see major overhauls Jennifer Garrett, and who know what might be includes the House PSPC’s director needed, had virtually no input into general for the renovations at West Bock, so this Chamber, the Hall Centre Block is miles ahead of that,” he said. renovation project, at Mr. Bagnell noted that in pre- of Honour, and La a House committee vious discussions, MPs have been meeting in May “pretty sensitive” to the impor- Francophonie room. 2019. The BOIE tance of heritage in renovating wants Mr. Wright, Parliament Hill: “I’m sure that BY LAURA RYCKEWAERT or his designate, to they would not have a hard time act as a liaison for convincing a large number of efore it adjourned amid its newly established MPs about the [importance of] BCOVID-19 precautions, the subcommittee. The heritage value.” House of Commons’ Board of Hill Times photograph Ms. May said that, following Internal Economy struck a new by Andrew Meade the March 12 meeting, a member subcommittee to oversee Centre of her staff was briefed on the Block renovations and ruled out BOIE’s decisions and current the possibility of expanding the design options—having been existing House Chamber, among The new group will make rec- assuming that happens before ’s (Oakville, Ont.) unable to attend herself due to a other things. ommendations to the BOIE, which 2041—the Chamber will need press secretary, Cecely Roy, said time confl ict. Only representatives from will then take them to the House to accommodate an estimated the department is “thrilled” to Ms. May highlighted further recognized parties in the House— administration, which is working 375 MPs, with 460 MPs expected have Mr. Wright act as a liaison spaces she thinks need to be add- those with at least 12 sitting in close co-ordination with PSPC within 50 years. Already, some and “encouraged by the bi-par- ed to the “thou shalt not touch” list, MPs—were involved in those and construction planners, includ- rows of fi ve fl ip seats had to be tisan collaboration that is being including the Reading Room and decisions. In turn, Green Party ing in a shared, open-concept added to accommodate 338 MPs established through this new the Railway Committee Room— parliamentary leader Elizabeth workspace at 150 Slater St. in the existing Chamber. working group.” the large committee rooms which May (Saanich-Gulf Islands, B.C.) “The intention, really, of doing Mr. Holland confi rmed with “We are also encouraged by fl ank the Hall of Honour—as well is now seeking a seat at the table. this is ensuring that we don’t offi cials on March 12 that these the decision from BOIE to move as the Library of Parliament. “I’m concerned about a num- have multiple different channels directions remove “some of the forward in streamlining the pro- The library, it should be noted, ber of aspects” related to Centre for the House administration to time pressure that was previously cess on several key decision points was renovated in 2007 and is not Block’s renovation, she said, be dealing with,” said Mr. Holland. discussed,” and that “the urgency is including maintaining the heritage expected to get another overhaul as including “what we preserve in The Board also agreed to some lifted a little bit,” giving the BOIE’s and footprint of the House of part of Centre Block’s renovation. terms of heritage, what we do in specifi c directions for the new new subcommittee more time Commons Chamber. In moving Ms. May said she’s written terms of modernization to ensure group, including that heritage to decide “how best to comport ahead with this streamlined deci- to the House Speaker asking energy effi ciency and conserva- preservation should be the “over- itself and how best to come to the sion making process, this will help “for a role in that [sub]commit- tion, and beyond that, of course, riding principle” in Centre Block’s conclusions its going to come to, to deliver construction timelines tee as Greens.” But overall, she what we do to make sure that renovation, and a list of “thou shalt to come to the recommendations and to stay on budget,” she said. said that after the complete lack MPs, as a group, are consulted.” not touch” spaces in the building The BOIE, of MP consultation on the West On March 12, the House Board to guide the new subcommittee which acts as Block’s renovation, she “really of Internal Economy (BOIE) and PSPC. the govern- appreciate[s]” that there’s now unanimously agreed to establish Mr. Holland said the “thou ing body of “more opportunity for Members a seven-member subcommittee to shalt not touch” list is intended to the House of of Parliament to have a say on the oversee and make recommenda- give “specifi c direction to restore Commons, is renovations for Centre Block.” tions on plans for Centre Block’s these elements of heritage and a nine-mem- While not consulted in the lead- renovation. The group will have not contemplate any amendments ber group. up to the BOIE’s decision, Ms. May three Liberals, two Conservatives, or potential destruction of these Chaired by said she agrees with its direction to one Bloc Québécois MP, and one elements of heritage.” the House not change the footprint of the ex- NDP MP. “[There are] some immedi- Speaker, it isting Chamber, saying she thinks Liberal Whip ate ones that we’ve [the BOIE] includes Mr. it’s possible to “accommodate more (Ajax, Ont.) said his caucus plans already agreed to as a group in Holland, Lib- MPs within the space we have,” and to fi ll its membership slots with our conversations that should not eral House moreover, that she thinks it’s time MPs from the Procedure and be touched” and can be stated “cat- Leader Pablo Canada reconsider the current Liberal Whip Mark Holland, pictured at the BOIE’s meeting House Affairs Committee (PROC), egorically today,” said Mr. Holland, Rodriguez representation formula. “At some on March 12. Screenshot courtesy of ParlVu which has previously been seized adding that ultimately the list “will (Honoré- point, we have to stop expanding to with oversight of the project. certainly be more expansive.” Mercier, more and more MPs.” The BOIE has requested that On the current list of spaces they’re going give to this body.” Que.), Deputy Liberal Whip Ginette At the Senate’s most recent Public Services and Procurement the BOIE has explicitly said it does “One of the biggest concerns Petitpas Taylor (Moncton-River- Internal Economy Committee on Canada’s assistant deputy minis- not want touched is the House of was the decision on the size of view-Dieppe, N.B.), Privy Council March 12, it did not discuss Cen- ter for parliamentary infrastruc- Commons Chamber, the Hall of the Chamber, as an example, and President Dominic LeBlanc (Beau- tre Block renovations or plans for ture—currently Rob Wright—or Honour, La Francophonie room, that’s impeding with the ability to séjour, N.B.), Conservative Whip a briefi ng from PSPC offi cials on his designate, act as a liaison for and the main entrance to the build- proceed with construction,” noted (Chilliwack-Hope, design options developed during the working group to “make sure ing for Parliamentarians. The BOIE Mr. Holland. B.C.), Conservative House Leader the brief public portion before it there’s that connection between asked PSPC for a list of all heritage Michel Patrice, deputy clerk of Candice Bergen (Portage-Lisgar, went in camera to discuss CO- the ministerial side and the work spaces within Centre Block to the House administration, said di- Man.), Bloc Whip Claude DeBelle- VID-19 measures. of the parliamentary group,” ex- consider at its next meeting, with rectives like this are “very helpful feuille (Salaberry-Suroît, Que.), and The Senate—like the House of plained Mr. Holland. a view to potentially adding to its in a way of going forward.” NDP House Leader Commons—has now adjourned The new subcommittee will “thou shalt not touch” list. “Taking off, for example, the (New Westminster-Burnaby, B.C.). until April 21. Manitoba Conser- operate separately from the Sen- This effectively gives direc- footprint of the Chamber, if we Asked about caucus consulta- vative Senator Don Plett, leader ate Internal Economy, Budgets, tion to PSPC to rule out the don’t look at that and we keep the tions in the lead up to the March of his party’s caucus in the Upper and Administration Committee’s possible expansion of the House same footprint, then we can focus 12 meeting and decisions, Mr. Chamber, confi rmed that the subgroup on the Long Term Vi- Chamber’s footprint, a possibility on other elements,” he said. Holland told The Hill Times that Senate Internal Economy’s LTVP sion and Plan (LTVP), “but where included in some of the options PSPC has targeted late spring he’s had “informal discussions” subcommittee will “defi nitely not there was overlap then those two presented by PSPC on Feb. 18 in or early summer to fi nalize the with Liberal colleagues “over the meet until the end of April.” bodies could meet jointly and try order to accommodate a future, schematic design plans for Centre last year” on the subject. Mr. Holland said he expects to fi nd a way to get on the same larger, Parliament. Block’s renovation and construc- “There was unanimity in the the BOIE’s new subcommittee will page,” said Mr. Holland. Previ- The question of how to fi t in tion of the fi nal phase of the Visi- belief that the heritage shouldn’t meet “as soon as possible” once ously, the idea of creating a joint more MPs is one of the biggest tors’ Welcome Centre alongside it. be altered,” he said. Parliament is back in business. [email protected] process with Senators had been challenges facing planners. By In response to questions from Liberal MP The Hill Times fl oated. the time Centre Block re-opens— The Hill Times, PSPC Minister (Yukon), who chaired the House THE HILL TIMES | WEDNESDAY, MARCH 18, 2020 5 Comment Remembering Tracey Hubley: a straight-talking, life-loving, humble girl from the Island loving, humble girl from the Island who Tracey leaves behind her mom, Bert, her Part of all of us will feel a never lost track of who she was. A testa- sister, Tammy, and her partner, Woody. Spare bit empty because she is ment to that is few of her school buddies more than a thought for them in the days knew what an icon she was in and ahead, because fi lling the Tracey void is not not around. If she knew in Canada. Tracey didn’t talk about herself going to be easy to do. She is now getting her much, as she was most often interested in eternal rest in her beloved P.E.I. Sleep well, my that, she’d tell us all to you not in broadcasting her bio to you. friend, you deserve it. We will never forget you Tracey Hubley was truly one of a kind. and will try to properly honour your memory get the ‘F’ on with it. My life and that of many others have been whenever we can. We’ll get the “F” on with it. forever bettered for the time she lent us. Tim Powers is vice-chairman of Summa Part of all of us will feel a bit empty because Strategies and managing director of Summa Strategies president Tracey Hubley, she is not around. If she knew that, she’d tell Abacus Data. He is a former adviser to who died March 5, was truly one of a kind, us all to get the “F” on with it. Strap on your Conservative political leaders. writes Tim Powers. Photograph courtesy of big-girl pants and get shit done. The Hill Times Twitter/SummaStrategies

Tim Powers Plain Speak Inside

TTAWA—Last week, my work wife, Ofriend of 20 years, and the president Inside of Summa Strategies, Tracey Hubley, died Directories unexpectedly. Many have already shared Ottawa wonderful memories of Tracey, the leader, Directory mentor, and top professional. She was all those things, and more. Tracey got a six-month head start on me 2020 Edition at Summa and never looked back. Hired by Doug Young, Paul Zed, and Ken Whit- ing because of her smarts, entrepreneurial know-how, and obvious potential, she Inside quickly established herself as a premiere Keep your clients and government relations advocate in Ottawa. Ottawa A mere six years after joining the com- pany at the young age of 40, she became members in the loop Directory our president. At that time, having a female leader of a Canadian lobbying business was a rare thing. But that was Tracey—a with a custom cover rare gem from Prince Edward Island who 2020 was making it big in the nation’s capital. But Tracey was so much more than a Inside Directory corporate star. Upon hearing of her death The ubiquitous little last week, my 15-year-old niece burst into pocket guide to tears. She remembered Tracey as the nice Parliament Hill woman who always had a treat for her when she visited Summa, took the time to play with her, and always had a keen Associations, GR and PR interest in her life. Tracey herself never had children, but she leaves an army of young fi rms can now order Inside fans who all shared a deep fondness for her affection of them. Ottawa and Canada Directories Tracey’s kindness and tender-hearted nature was the stuff of legend. When my with a customized cover.: dad died nearly seven years ago, she was one of the fi rst people to get to Newfound- land to help our family out. Some 15 years ago, it was Tracey who helped pulled me • Both useful and professional these guides off the fl oor when I was in a deep, dark depression. Somehow, she got through to keep your brand center stage. me when others couldn’t. Like in any relationship, Tracey and I • 100 Copies of Inside Ottawa and 100 Inside had our ups and downs. We had periods Inside of struggle, but I truly believe we never Canada customized with your logo. stopped our deep love of friendship for Canada each other. For me, and for many, she will • 100 Copies of either Inside Ottawa or never really be gone from our lives. Directory This past weekend, many of Tracey’s Inside Canada customized with your logo. Summa family and many of her friends from Ottawa travelled to P.E.I. to say a tem- porary goodbye to her. It was a magnifi cent 2020 send-off, attended by three former premiers Order Now of Prince Edward Island, numerous Mem- bers of Parliament, and a massive sandbox hilltimes.com/the-hill-times-store The complete of Tracey’s fans from childhood to now. Legislative directory Talking to Tracey’s friends from her [email protected] • 613-688-8821 by Province early years, a common theme emerged: she remained effectively the same person they grew up with. A straight-talking, life- 6 WEDNESDAY, MARCH 18, 2020 | THE HILL TIMES News Canada-China relations

“I would imagine that if the committee does call the represen- ‘They have no right to ask tative of Taiwan to give evidence that it’s likely that they will des- ignate that he is speaking as an individual, and not as a represen- tative of the Republic of China,” me to be there,’ says Chinese he said. “I don’t see any barrier to a parliamentary committee call- ing anybody to give evidence.” Mr. Saint-Jacques said the is- sue isn’t something for Mr. Cong ambassador on possibility to comment on. Mr. Cong said he hopes that both the Canadian government and Parliament would “make a right decision, because they are of appearance at Canada- aware of the importance of up- holding the ‘One China’ principle.” “I think, whether it’s [the Cana- dian] government [or] it’s Parlia- ment, [they] should always abide by China Relations Committee the foreign policy of Canada and for the foreign policy of Canada, one part of that is to make sure to follow Guy Saint-Jacques, who served voice is being heard in Canada,” Canadians that are working on the ‘One China’ principle.” ‘One would have as Canada’s ambassador to China adding that he wants to see China,” said Mr. Dade. Mr. Cong wouldn’t answer thought that if the from 2012 to 2016, told MPs on the “more sensible and rational when asked if a committee ap- Canada-China Relations Committee voices” being heard about the Committee should follow pearance from a Taiwan represen- Chinese government that Canada should act in “reciproc- relationship. tative would fl out that principle. ity” to the actions of the Chinese “I do hope that this committee ‘One China’ policy: Cong Parliamentary committees are feels that they are government, and said cabinet minis- will be serving as an additional Liberal MP John McKay (Scar- distinct from the government and ters should not accept invitations channel for the Canadian people borough-Guildwood, Ont.), who are controlled by the committee in the right in the for lunch or dinner at the embassy. and the Members of the Parlia- doesn’t serve on the special com- members, and not the executive. Although Mr. Cong cannot ment to have a better understand- mittee, told The Hill Times earlier “Of course, the Chinese am- current downturn in be compelled to appear before ing of China and the importance this month that he would like to bassador has a diffi culty to make the committee, Prof. Burton said of the Canada-China relation- see the committee hear testimony the difference between govern- relations [between] there shouldn’t be anything to ship,” he said. from Taiwan’s perspective. ment and Parliament because in Canada and China stop MPs from inviting him or The committee was formed “If I had anything to say about China it’s one thing—it’s the same embassy offi cials to give testi- through an opposition motion to it, I would like to see the repre- thing,” Mr. Saint-Jacques said. that the ambassador mony to the committee. look at the status of the relation- sentatives of Taiwan,” Mr. McKay Ron MacIntosh, who served “One would have thought that ship between the two countries, said. “They seemed to have man- as the executive director of the would welcome if the Chinese government feels as tensions have continued to aged the relationship reasonably Canadian Trade Offi ce in Taipei from 2006 to 2009, said committee an opportunity to members should be “pragmatic” explain,’ says former Cong Peiwu says when dealing with a Taiwanese he wants to see representative. Canadian diplomat more ‘positive “If I were giving unsolicited, energy’ put into unpaid advice to the committee Charles Burton. the Special House leadership, I suggest that they Committee on might be able to get away with Continued from page 1 Canada-China it and have less consequences Relations and have for Canada’s other interests like a hearing, simply they have ‘more sensible with China if they made this as no right to just ask me to be there and more rational informal as possible and not part like a business,” Mr. Cong said. voices’ being of their formal committee hearing He said it is not the practice heard. The Hill structure,” said Mr. MacIntosh, a for foreign diplomats to appear Times photograph senior fellow at the University of before Canadian parliamentary by Sam Garcia Alberta’s China Institute. committees. Mr. Cong confi rmed “Having said that, China still on March 12 that he had not yet will not like it. It’s just a question of received a request to appear. fi nding out at what point will there Given Mr. Cong’s diplomatic be consequences that will fl ow immunity status, the Chinese am- from such an experience,” he said. bassador cannot be compelled to Taiwan is a “core” concern for appear before the committee. the Chinese Communist Party, Former diplomats told The Hill added Mr. MacIntosh, and no signs Times that Global Affairs has histori- of “weakness” can be tolerated. cally been reluctant to have Canadi- “They’re taking it further, an diplomats appear before external that consequences will fl ow from legislative committees, preferring that they are in the right in the deteriorate since the December well, and they’re much closer and perceived departures from ‘One that ambassadors develop informal current downturn in relations 2018 arrest of Huawei executive more tied to us.” China’ policy and they may be relationships with foreign legislators. [between] Canada and China, that Meng Wanzhou, and the sub- Mr. Cong wouldn’t directly an- manifest in the area of trade and But in the last Parliament, the ambassador would welcome sequent Chinese detention of swer what the Chinese government’s exchange activity,” Mr. MacIn- numerous foreign diplomats ap- an opportunity to explain,” he Canadian citizens Michael Kovrig response would be if the committee tosh said. “I think under [Chinese peared before House committees said. and Michael Spavor in apparent invited a representative of the Tai- President] Xi [Jinping] there’s including the ambassadors from Earlier this month, Liberal MP retaliation. wanese government to appear. generally even thinner skin on Latvia, Finland, and Moldova, Robert Oliphant (Don Valley West, Some witnesses who have ap- “Taiwan is part of China, and what constitutes a departure.” among other embassy offi cials. Ont.), a member of the committee peared before the committee have I think when it comes to Taiwan Prof. Burton said if China pun- Brock University professor and to raised concern with the line of the ‘One China’ principle has to be ished Canada for a representative Charles Burton, a former counsel- the foreign affairs ministers, told questions being asked, calling it followed,” he said. of Taiwan appearing before the lor at the Canadian embassy in The Hill Times that one perspec- McCarthyite-like. Mr. Saint-Jacques told The committee, it would be a “gross Beijing, said the Chinese govern- tive that the committee needs to Committee witness Carlo Hill Times that when Canada and violations of the norms of interna- ment would want more control hear about is China’s approach to Dade, a director with the Canada China began diplomatic relations tional diplomacy and trade.” over any interactions it has with the world. West Foundation’s trade and with the People’s Republic of “It could end with a similar Canadians offi cials. “We may need to get that from investment centre, in particu- China in 1970, Canada took note situation as we’ve had when “I think that certainly he the Chinese,” he said in a March lar criticized the way in which of the Chinese position on Taiwan. Canada leaders have met with doesn’t wish to be placed in a 2 phone interview. “I often think Conservatives MPs questioned “We never recognized offi cially the Dalai Lama, which is a lot position where he is asked direct that when you are trying to un- Canadian ambassador to China their view on Taiwan, and I think of threats followed by no actual questions that he would prefer derstand people it’s best to talk to Dominic Barton and University of it’s something that we have to substantive action in the wake of not to answer,” Prof. Burton said, them. So we have to fi nd a way to professor Yves maintain this ambiguity,” he said. it,” he said. adding that typically the Chinese do that and to do it in a construc- Tiberghien. Prof. Burton said there is no —with fi les from Samantha ambassador invites MPs to the tive way.” “What I’m hearing from the basis in Canada’s diplomatic rela- Wright Allen embassy to discuss the relation- Mr. Cong said he will “do Conservatives is just attack, and tionship with China to not call a [email protected] ship over a meal. whatever I can to make sure our not just attack China, but attack representative of Taiwan. The Hill Times THE HILL TIMES | WEDNESDAY, MARCH 18, 2020 7 Legislation News

‘We were able to have frank ‘Decisive action conversations where we trusted each other,’ says was required’: Liberal Whip Mark Holland, left, of his negotiations with how MPs Conservative Whip Mark Strahl and other members and Senators of the Board of Internal Economy. The Hill Times photographs by hammered out Rachel Aiello and Andrew deal to close Meade

Parliament late hamstrung for an even longer the government power to spend was the bill’s sponsor in the Sen- period of time if the virus began new money would have been ate. to spread among MPs and staff, meaningless without approval by Sen. Plett criticized the gov- said Mr. Strahl. the Senate. ernment for not advancing the into the night “We also recognized that the On the afternoon of March NAFTA bill through Parliament government couldn’t simply lose 12, when MPs were still hours earlier, both in the Chamber and its ability to respond” to the crisis away from fi nalizing their deal, later in an interview with The by losing spending power with the Senate had already adjourned Hill Times. The Conservatives ‘We are in der which they would suspend Parliament shut down, he said. until March 24. Senate lead- supported the bill and the trade Parliament amid the COVID-19 Instead, the MPs agreed to ers and Senate Speaker George agreement, but wanted more time unprecedented times,’ crisis. They continued to work what became Bill C-12, giving Furey (N.L.) were informed that to call attention to its defi cits— into the evening following that the government the ability to the House negotiations were for example, challenges it could says Conservative meeting, periodically gathering in spend money “where a payment underway. pose to dairy producers and other Whip Mark Strahl. the offi ce of Government House is urgently required for the public A little more than an hour farmers, and the aluminum sector. Leader Pablo Rodriguez (Honoré- good,” with approval from the after the Senate adjourned, “We had no choice but to pass Mercier, Que.) to discuss terms, Governor General. Conservative Senate Leader it,” he said, adding it would have Continued from page 1 then breaking off, with Conserva- “We are in unprecedented Don Plett (Landmark, Man.) sent been “unfair” to hold onto the bill the government’s bills to hold up tive, NDP, and Bloc Québécois times,” he said. out an email to members of his until Parliament returned. its legislative agenda and shorten members of the Board returning The NAFTA implementation caucus, asking any who had not “We don’t know if we’re going its list of accomplishments; oppo- to their own House leadership bill was thrown into the deal yet caught a fl ight to their home to be back in four or fi ve weeks,” sition MPs accuse the government offi ces to discuss their next steps. because MPs expected to wrap up province to stay in Ottawa until he said. The Senate is, for now, of ramming legislation through Not all of the Board members their debate on the legislation the the following day. suspended until April 21. Parliament with no regard for participated in all of the face-to- following day anyway, and then Sen. Plett said he spent much Giving the government ex- meaningful debate or study. face meetings. of the night talking traordinary powers to spend amid Conservative For the opposition, giving the The deal was to Conservative the crisis was “something that had Board of Internal government a temporary carte negotiated out of Leader Andrew to be done,” he said. Economy blanche to spend money was the public eye—and Scheer’s (Regina- “This is almost like a war mea- members Candice an exceptional concession amid under the usual Qu’Appelle, Sask.) sures act. They need to be allowed Bergen, left, what has become a national cri- condition of confi - offi ce to receive to operate.” and Mark Strahl. sis—one that was made only after dentiality—so that updates on the sta- The Senate negotiations weren’t Members of the the government agreed to allow a the MPs from the tus of negotiations especially diffi cult, he said. Board negotiated retroactive study of government four recognized par- in the House, and “Was there a lot of arm-twist- a deal to keep spending during the suspension ties would have the attending meetings ing? No. We were all of the mind- the government by a House committee when MPs freedom to propose in the offi ces of set that we needed to do exactly running while return to work, and additional ideas without fear Sen. Furey and the what we did, so that we could Parliament is scrutiny from Canada’s auditor of having their government’s rep- keep ourselves, our families safe, shut down amid general. words thrown back resentative in the but also so we could keep the rest the COVID-19 “Decisive action was required” at them later by Senate, Sen. Marc of Canadians safe.” crisis. The Hill said Conservative MP Mark their adversaries Gold (Stadacona, [email protected] Times photograph Strahl (Chilliwack-Hope, B.C.), for political pur- Que.)—both in the The Hill Times by Andrew Meade his party’s whip in the House. poses, said Liberal sprawling new Prime Minister Justin Trudeau MP Mark Holland downtown Senate (Papineau, Que.) said on March (Ajax, Ont.), the Building—as Sen- Members of the House 16 that the government was put- chief government whip. hold a vote on the fi rst day back ate leaders worked out their own ting together a spending package “We were able to have frank following the regularly scheduled deal for suspending the Upper of Commons Board of to help Canadians weather the conversations where we trusted break week, said Mr. Strahl. Chamber. Internal Economy crisis, caused by the new virus each other,” he said. “I think all parties recognized “There was constant commu- that has spread rapidly across the The members of the Board that the USMCA, NAFTA 2, was a nication going on by phone and Chair wanted the parties to act “in world over the past few months. hugely important piece of legisla- in person as the evening pro- Liberal MP (House On March 17, Mr. Trudeau told unison” as they responded to the tion for the economic interests of gressed,” he said. speaker) reporters he had asked House spreading virus, and closed Par- Canadians,” said Mr. Holland. The Senate leaders reached leaders to negotiate a brief recall liament until April 20—and per- The cross-partisan deal did not a deal around the same time as Members of Parliament to pass legislation haps longer—said Mr. Holland, to include the passage of Bill C-7, MPs fi nished off theirs on the Liberal MP Pablo Rodriguez (govern- that would enable the govern- avoid adding to public confusion the government’s move to expand evening of March 12, he said. The ment House leader) ment to provide some of that about the crisis. the assisted dying law, as ordered Red Chamber was recalled the Liberal MP Mark Holland (government aid, including changes to Em- The negotiations on March 12 by ’s Superior Court. The following day, and 38 Senators whip) ployment Insurance. Later that followed two weeks of informal government has a court-ordered showed up to move all four bills Liberal MP day, NDP Whip discussions between the parties deadline of July 11 to change the through every stage in quick suc- (deputy government whip) (North Island-Powell River, B.C.) about how Parliament should existing assisted dying law. The cession before suspending until Liberal MP Dominic LeBlanc (president told The Hill Times she expected respond to the growing crisis, he Conservatives have argued that April 21. of the Privy Council) it to reconvene in smaller num- said. the Liberal bill goes beyond what Sen. Plett, Conservative Sena- Conservative MP Candice Bergen (op- bers “some time next week.” “Over those two weeks there is needed to comply with the tor Larry Smith (Saurel, Que.), position House leader) Members of the House Board was just a lot of trust built,” he court’s order to change the law. and ISG Senator Peter Boehm Conservative MP Mark Strahl (opposi- tion whip) of Internal Economy met behind said. “Everybody had their self- The House’s move to approve (Ontario) all took a few min- NDP MP Peter Julian (NDP House leader) closed doors for more than four interest take a back seat.” two supply bills—authorizing utes to deliver speeches about MPs felt an obligation to Bloc Québécois MP Claude DeBelle- hours during the day on March pre-planned government spend- the NAFTA implementation bill feuille (Bloc whip) 12 to negotiate the terms un- protect Parliament from being ing—the NAFTA bill, and to give before it was passed. Sen. Boehm 8 WEDNESDAY, MARCH 18, 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 MPs give parting words on House suspension

On March 13, the House of Commons unanimously agreed to suspend its sitting for fi ve weeks, until April 20, in a bid to not contribute to the spread of the novel corona- Feds, provinces should speak virus, COVID-19. Here are some of their parting words: with one voice on COVID-19 hese are extraordinary times. With da’s management of this pandemic. While t’s time for the federation to work if someone was so inclined to ignore “Tthe World Health Organization we understand that COVID-19 does not re- Itogether. As efforts to stop the spread of pleas to stay home. declaring COVID-19 a global pandemic, it spect borders, the government can consider the novel coronavirus, COVID-19, ramp Prime Minister Justin Trudeau and is incumbent on everyone to exercise the measures to further contain the virus from up, the disparate approaches taken by members of his cabinet have faced ques- highest degree of caution. My colleagues spreading, such as more vigorous screen- various provinces and territories have tions in the past couple of days about the and I, in direct collaboration with our ing upon entry, mandatory quarantine for potential to sow confusion. differing messaging. friends across the aisle, have come to an those who enter from high-risk countries On March 15, Quebec Premier Fran- Co-ordination is happening among the arrangement to suspend Parliament while and potentially stopping incoming and çois Legault announced the closure of public health authorities, Health Minister ensuring the government continues to outgoing fl ights from high-risk areas. The bars, clubs, concert halls, and a plethora said during a March 16 press have the authority and capability to pro- government’s relying on Canadians to have of recreational sites in his province, after conference. vide our country with necessary fi nancial enough supplies to weather the pandemic invoking emergency measures in Que- “There are baseline guidance provisions supports. is simply not enough.” bec’s Public Health Act the day prior. at all different levels, at technical guiding “There continue to remain signifi cant — Conservative House Leader The provincial government had already levels for hospitals and practitioners, a va- questions about the Government of Cana- Mark Strahl banned visits to hospitals and elderly riety of other considerations including pro- care homes, and recommended that its curement of professionals that are working residents over the age of 70 stay indoors. across jurisdictions to make sure we have t is also my wish that we deal with this to the interests of Quebec. The Bloc will Next door, in Ontario, Premier Doug a scope of the knowledge about what’s “Ichallenge before us swiftly, wisely, continue to offer proposals to better serve Ford announced a provincial state of emer- needed, where the gaps are,” she said. and carefully. I ask that we restrain our those interests. gency on March 17, ordering the closure of Deputy Prime Minister Chrystia propensity for playing politics and instead “In light of how vigorously and quick- most public businesses, with the excep- Freeland said a plan is now in place to become protectors of the common good. ly the coronavirus is spreading, numerous tion of grocery stores, convenience stores, have “regular calls” with fi rst ministers “to That is what the Bloc Québécois will do. possible responses have been proposed. pharmacies, manufacturing facilities, co-ordinate our national response.” “Nevertheless, the suspension of Time will tell which responses were ap- public transit, important public services, On March 17, Mr. Trudeau said that Parliament should not mean and will not propriate. We will have to learn from this construction sites, and offi ce buildings. while various recommendations will mean that the Bloc Québécois will be experience.” In British Columbia, which has been come from different jurisdictions, the less present or less vigilant with regard — Bloc Québécois Leader hit with the greatest number of corona- message from all orders of government to anything that might be detrimental Yves-François Blanchet virus-related deaths (four, as of fi ling is “very, very similar,” which includes the deadline on March 17), public gatherings call to “stay home as much as you possi- of more than 50 people were banned, and bly can” and engage in social distancing. casinos were closed on March 16. Res- “Right now, we must all work together,” n this place, Canadians often see “Unanimity is rare, but it is important taurants and bars were not specifi cally Mr. Trudeau said. “Ihow our parties differ, and the dif- when we face a challenge that affects all ordered by the government to close, but That’s absolutely true and should ex- ferences we have. They see the ques- of Canada. It is important that Members many shuttered as they wouldn’t be able tend country wide. Premiers of provinces tions we ask each other in Question come together and confi rm that we will to keep to the less-than-50-person limit. and territories have no problems getting to- Period. What Canadians often see is the work collaboratively. Much like the U.S.-Canada border, gether to call on the federal government for variety of opinions within this House of “Canadians come together when there interprovincial borders are not closing, so money and other asks. They should use that Commons. are challenges. That has always been the even though the situation on the ground same energy to collaborate so that every “Today, however, we see all parties hallmark of our character. Today, as we in terms of the spread of the virus may province and territory is moving in lockstep and all Members of Parliament coming know, public health offi cials told us that it is differ from province to province to terri- with each other, and the feds, to ensure that together with the same mission. That important for members of Parliament, like ev- tory, it wouldn’t take much for lax rules in Canadians are as safe as possible. mission is to confront the challenge of eryone else in Canada, to maintain the social one province to have an affect on another, The Hill Times coronavirus in Canada and to do our part distancing that is so important to assure we to minimize the dangers of this virus go- do not see a rapid multiplication of the virus.” ing further in the public sphere. — NDP House Leader Peter Julian

e cannot tell moment to moment we have to stop our work in this place. “Wwhat lies ahead with the spread Hopefully it is only for fi ve weeks, so of COVID-19. I want to express thanks we again can take on the business of to the Canadian public health authorities the nation. I think it is fair to say that as at every level and in my own province much as we travel on airplanes, we do not … who have taken strong precautionary want to fi nd, when history looks at what action. happened with COVID-19 in Canada, that “I have confi dence in our health members of Parliament were vectors of authorities. I have confi dence in Canadi- disease. We need to take on board our ans. We gather in groups, and goodness responsibilities.” knows, as Members of Parliament, we — Green Parliamentary Leader gather in groups and travel on airplanes. It is incumbent upon us to accept that

ur action today demonstrates that “To Canadians, workers, and families; “Owe take this challenge seriously. I to children concerned for their parents; to want to thank all of the health care work- sisters and brothers concerned for loved ers and professionals. ones and friends, we are all united. We “From the bottom of my heart, I want will face this together, and we will get to thank all health care professionals, through this together.” who are going through tough times at — Government House Leader work as they help us through this crisis. Pablo Rodriguez

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three coalition personnel and the U.S.-trained and -equipped Like the sign says in wounding a dozen others. Iraqi government army had No Canadians were reported simply melted away the minute the china shop, ‘if you injured in the attack, but Cana- Daesh appeared on the battle- dian military trainers are based fi eld. break it, you bought in Taji. For security reasons, the Now Rouleau is saying that Canadian Major-General Jennie Carignan officially assumed command of the it.’ Canada did not Department of National Defence our erstwhile allies in the suc- NATO Mission Iraq on Nov. 26, 2019. Scott Taylor asks: when did Canada does not identify exact numbers cessful battle to defeat Daesh authorize our troops’ participation in an inter-factional civil war in Iraq? DND break Iraq. of personnel deployed to Iraq. are Canada’s biggest threat. The photograph courtesy of Cpl. Ryan Moulton It was believed that the rocket question begs, when did Canada attack was perpetrated by an authorize our troops’ participa- things out in Kuwait until the dust man named Tawfi q Allwai was set Iranian backed Iraqi Shiite militia tion in an inter-factional civil war settles. The DND website assures to form a government and serve known as Kataib Hezbollah. in Iraq? us that these personnel “remain as prime minister. Internal dissent This incident supports the In addition to an ill-defi ned ready to return to their mission collapsed those plans on March 2, March 9 testimony made by Cana- role for Canadian Special when conditions are right to do extending the power vacuum. dian Lt.-Gen. Mike Rouleau before Forces personnel in Iraq, Cana- so.” At present, the most powerful a House of Commons committee. dian troops are deployed to that Even if rooted in blind op- fi gure in Iraq is the Shiite warlord Rouleau told the National Defence country to assist in a NATO-led timism, that statement runs in Muqtada al-Sadr, who leads the Committee that Iranian-backed, initiative to train Iraqi govern- stark contrast to reality of the coalition of Shiite militia. Iraqi Shiite militia are his No. 1 situation on the ground in Iraq. If they are now the biggest Scott Taylor ment forces. concern in Iraq, because “Daesh This initiative involves approx- The Canadian-led NATO train- threat to Canadian military per- Inside Defence has been defeated militarily.” imately 250 Canadian soldiers, ing mission is tasked with train- sonnel, it is time we walk away Astoundingly, Rouleau’s and the overall NATO mission is ing an Iraqi government army. from this confl ict. statement caused not a ripple of commanded by Canadian Maj.- The problem with that equation is The U.S. does not have the TTAWA—Almost completely response despite the magnitude Gen. Jennie Carignan. that Iraq does not have a func- luxury of walking away from this Oforgotten amidst the ava- of what his words mean. Carignan and the majority of tioning government. When last mess because they set it in motion lanche of news concerning the Canada fi rst deployed troops those trainers have been relo- summer’s parliamentary election in 2003 when they invaded Iraq worldwide COVID-19 pandemic is into Iraq in September 2014 to as- cated to Kuwait since early Janu- failed to produce a verifi able under the pretext of securing the ongoing confl ict in Iraq. sist in the U.S.-led coalition effort ary following the U.S.’s targeted result, it was determined that a non-existent weapons of mass Canadians should be aware to defeat Daesh (a.k.a. ISIS, ISIL, killing of Iranian General Qassem recount be conducted. Before that destruction. Like the sign says in of the deteriorating situation or IS). At the time, our soldiers Soleimani. could happen the warehouse con- the china shop, “if you break it, because we still have some were employed as trainers to Iran vowed revenge, and this taining the ballots burned down. I you bought it.” skin in the game to the tune assist Kurdish militia in the fi ght sentiment was echoed by the Iraqi kid you not. Canada did not break Iraq. of approximately 850 military against Daesh. Shiite militia which Soleimani Last November, interim prime Bring our troops home now. personnel. Allied with us in that effort once commanded. minister Adel Abdul-Mahdi was Scott Taylor is the edi- On March 11, as many as 18 were a large number of Iranian- It was considered best to forced to step down following tor and publisher of Esprit de Katyusha rockets slammed into backed, Iraqi Shiite militia. One suspend the training in Iraq and nation-wide violent protests. In Corps magazine. the Allied base in Taji, Iraq, killing of the reasons for this was that have Carignan and company sit recent weeks, it appeared that a The Hill Times ‘Safari Arie’ is the new Man in Motion

in a wheelchair in the 1990s, he is As a result, he changed his the coastline of .” As At every stop, he is asked if In this time of fear a man in motion. route through Nova Scotia to a truck driver travelling the con- he is undertaking the ride for a The bike riding part sounds travel around the province from tinent, he is accustomed to long charity. So, he polled his social and isolation, it daunting enough, but consider Halifax to Yarmouth before hours of solitude. But he admits it media followers on raising money this: he left St. John’s, N.L., in late embarking on the ferry to Saint is hard to be lonely, “when people for a cause. A resounding major- is nice to hear of November and continued through John, N.B. Then across New are always recognizing me and ity was against it, preferring the someone who beats the winter. He spent most of De- Brunswick to Quebec City, Mon- taking me in.” theme of “one human against the cember crossing Newfoundland, treal, and Ottawa. He plans to go He should be in Tuktoyaktuk elements.” So he will talk about the odds. then on to Nova Scotia and Prince south to Hamilton before heading by summer; from there he plans tree planting, and see if the op- Edward Island for Christmas. to Northern Ontario in April. to head south to Vancouver, portunity presents itself to raise Then New Brunswick and Que- Paradoxically, Arie doesn’t like the United States, then Central funds for the campaign as the trip bec, before arriving in Ottawa on winter, but he was nursing a bro- and South America. He owns a continues. March 12. He has faced withering ken heart after his fi ancée split 40-acre property in the Central To some, the tall, thin, goateed snowstorms, freezing rain, and up with him last May, and needed American country of Belize, cyclist might be seen as an ec- heavy headwinds over his 4,560 something to take his mind off where he has planted trees. This centric, or even somewhat crazy. kilometre journey. the hurt. His past experiences led to considering reforestation But he set an objective to ride a The 46-year-old long-haul with long-distance biking in on a grander scale, and his sec- bicycle through cold, snow and truck driver has camped overnight various parts of Canada inspired ond project kicked in. ice, and the kindness he received dozens of times, often sleeping in him to do this marathon, and for “I have always been passionate has warmed his broken heart. For the shadow of a local Tim Hor- an extra challenge, to begin in about planting trees for a better many long distance cyclists, his Andrew Caddell ton’s. Photographs of his little tent winter. environment. I felt, as an unem- story is one to admire, and his With All Due Respect covered with snow in small towns As someone who cycled across ployed truck driver, I could not cause a good one. In this time of have touched his more than 2,000 Canada in the warmer months, get much attention from the pub- fear and isolation, it is nice to hear followers on social media. So I can attest to it being diffi cult lic or sponsors to plant a million of someone who beats the odds. TTAWA—Arie Hoogerbrugge much so they have reached out to enough in 25 C. And even though trees. But I thought I might have Andrew Caddell is retired from Ois a man on a mission. Two offer shelter. “I did not foresee the I winter biked for my commute some credibility after cycling Global Affairs Canada, where he missions, in fact: fi rst, ride his response I received,” he admits. “I in Ottawa, cycling 100 kilometres 55,000 kilometres.” Arie’s proj- was a senior policy adviser. He bicycle to Tuktoyaktuk in the expected to camp most of my time, a day in -30 C is hard to fathom. ect should resonate with Prime previously worked as an adviser Arctic Circle, and then to the but Maritimers were very gener- Still, “Safari Arie,” presses on, Minister Justin Trudeau and the to Liberal governments. He is a southern tip of Argentina, for a ous.” People stopped him on the pulling a small trailer with 185 Canadian Forestry Service, which fellow with the Canadian Global total of 55,000 kilometres. And road, took them into their homes pounds of gear. has been tasked with the govern- Affairs Institute and a principal of once that’s done, he intends to and fed him, gave him money and His impressions? “In win- ment’s throne speech promise to QIT Canada. He can be reached plant one million trees. Not unlike generally encouraged him along ter, there is not a lot of pretty plant two billion trees in the next at [email protected]. Rick Hansen’s tour of the world the way. landscape, with the exception of decade as a carbon sink. The Hill Times 10 WEDNESDAY, MARCH 18, 2020 | THE HILL TIMES Comment Splendid isolation: A crisis defi ning survival tips for leadership #workingfromhome around the world From avoiding the home- office hunch The economic and social whole thing contributed to the heedless to finding demeanour exhibited by Americans who cat-video-sized repercussions of this have refused to get serious about the need distractions, to slow the spread of COVID-19 by cutting Lisa Van Dusen historic struggle will likely back their social life. offers insight Local and state governments have for the work- be felt for years. But in taken the initiative. New York City closed from-home its schools and many state governors have amateurs. Canada, as elsewhere, the shut bars, restaurants, and casinos. “The Photograph legacy of leaders at all levels time for persuasion and public appeals is courtesy of over, the time for action is here,” Illinois Pixabay will be shaped by their Gov. J.B. Pritzker said as he imposed re- strictions in his state. ability to rise to this event. British Prime Minister Boris Johnson, another populist more accustomed to pulling things down than fi xing anything, has been slammed for his laid-back ap- proach. It didn’t help that, in his usual scatterbrained fashion, Johnson mused on TV that “one of the theories” on fi ghting COVID-19 was that “perhaps you could Working from home is not come back. Whatever you do, don’t touch take it on the chin, take it all in one go your face, or you’ll get coronavirus. I’ve and allow the disease, as it were, to move for amateurs. It requires a taken to wearing a goalie’s mask, which through the population, without taking is just one of the many things you can as many draconian measures.” This led knack for troubleshooting do while working from home and not get to a situation where Health Minister Matt Les Whittington reported to HR. Hancock last weekend had to publicly and a few handy props. 4. Beware the iHunch: If you don’t Need to Know disavow the concept of herd immunity as have an ergonomically sound desk-chair government policy. arrangement or you can’t be arsed and Canada, too, has been slow off the have taken to working on the couch all day TTAWA—Given U.S. President Donald mark. It’s not that Prime Minister Justin because that’s why couches were invented, OTrump’s seemingly congenital in- Trudeau’s government and the provinces you will develop a stoop that makes you ability to confront the potential size of the haven’t taken action. But the virus has look like a First World War soldier living coronavirus catastrophe, it’s been left to proved too contagious and fast-moving for in a trench, perpetually braced for incom- U.S. governors and mayors to take decisive political leaders steeped in cautiousness ing artillery fi re, or Richard III with carpal action in hopes of slowing the spread of and concerned about being accused of pan- tunnel syndrome. Every two hours, yank the pandemic among Americans. icking or over-reacting. Finance Minister your copy of Infi nite Jest off the shelf you Trump’s legacy will be defi ned by his has been unable to convey slammed it back onto halfway through confusing, uninformed, relentlessly clue- much of a sense of urgency or confi dence. Lisa Van Dusen page 729, place it on your head (don’t less response to COVID-19. Unlike most As for the offi cial opposition, it wasn’t What Fresh Hell forget to take the goalie’s mask off fi rst) of the issues confronting the president, until late last week that the Conservatives and walk around the coffee table 10 times the virus was not susceptible to bluster, switched from berating the Liberals over like a superannuated debutante rehearsing propaganda, and the magician’s trick of the defi cit to pressing hard for answers on aving worked from home as an editor for an imaginary cotillion. Next thing you misdirection. Since January, when news the coronavirus emergency. Hand columnist for years, I welcome know, it’s 5 o’clock and time for a shot of of the coronavirus outbreak in China Containment in Canada failed as mea- to the club those who, due to the public tequila. became well known, Trump has played sures that might have kept the disease in health demands of the pandemic currently 5. Two words—Howard Hughes: No down the risk to Americans, suppressed check such as closing borders, reducing stalking humanity, suddenly fi nd them- matter how much time you spend alone, scientifi c warnings, and accused the U.S. public gatherings, and stepping up airport selves telecommuting. Hereby, a list of don’t go cybermonk and start skipping media of “doing everything possible to screening appeared too little and too late. helpful tips for adapting to a home offi ce showering or stop trimming your toenails make coronavirus look as bad as pos- As of early March 16, for instance, Ontario, environment: or start working naked just because there’s sible.” And he totally misled Americans despite bringing in a range of useful mea- 1. The glass half-full rule: For days when nobody around to see it—that’s a very slip- about the almost criminal failure of the sures, was still hesitating on shutting down you feel the tug of nostalgia for a work- pery slope. Think of it as splendid isolation, federal government to provide enough restaurants and bars. As confi rmed virus place full of human beings, have a carousel which, by the way, is more than a War- virus testing that would be needed by one cases shot up, Trudeau decided to close of creative visualization moments to play ren Zevon song or a house in the title of small town, let alone the entire U.S. Asked Canada’s borders to those with COVID-19 back, representing the downside of meat an Edna O’Brien hostage novel. The term about this, the president said, “I don’t take symptoms and those who are not Canadian space professional life: that time your boss was actually coined in 1896 by Canadian responsibility at all.” citizens, with some exceptions, including told you unironically that he wanted more MP Sir to describe Trump’s fi rst national address on the for trade. stories about cannibals on the wire, or that Britain’s political distancing from Europe issue fl opped, leading to a historic stock With the outbreak changing all the time your other boss suggested bikram under Lord Salisbury—a timely contrast market sell-off. He recovered somewhat time, it’s impossible to say how bad the goat yoga as a team-building exercise. to deeply un-splendid Brexit isolation. It a few days later, declaring a national situation will get here. Earlier this month, 2. It’s all about alchemy: For every—in didn’t last as a doctrine because it was emergency and freeing up $50-billion in Canadians were giving Trudeau a pass- my case Donald Trump news conference, in stupid, but don’t let that deter you from federal resources. But he still speculated ing grade on his crisis-abatement efforts. yours, perhaps Power Point of the second embracing it as a euphemism. that it might all blow over. And on March But if the curve of mounting cases is not quarter regional sales fi gures—10 minutes 6. No cheating: As tempting as it may be 15, as confi rmed cases in the U.S. passed effectively fl attened, there seems little spent processing soul-shrivelingly dull, to acquire imaginary friends while #work- 3,000 and one expert said hundreds of doubt that the medical system will be over- dispiriting, horrid, or regional sales fi gures ingfromhome, there’s a fi ne line between thousands of Americans could die, Trump whelmed as in the desperate conditions in content, counter-program with 20 minutes sniping at the television during a Trump repeated his long-held view that “it’s Italy’s hospitals. And that’s not to mention of Aretha Franklin, cat videos, soaring po- newser and asking Wolf Blitzer whether something we have tremendous control the accompanying recession. litical eloquence, or other positive, uplift- these jeans make your ass look fat. of.” The economic and social repercussions ing, hilarious content to pre-empt a slump 7. In case of cabin fever: Go for a walk, In Trump’s case, fully recognizing the of this historic struggle will likely be felt in morale. Next thing you know, it’s 11 carefully. onrushing disaster would mean candidly for years. And a great deal more than o’clock and time to watch The View. Stay well, everyone. accessing the growing risks it poses to politics is at stake. But in Canada, as else- 3. The scourge of inertia creep: Don’t Lisa Van Dusen is associate editor his central re-election messaging about a where, the legacy of leaders at all levels sit for longer than two hours without tak- of Policy Magazine and was a Washington strong economy. At this point, about half of will be shaped by their ability to rise to ing a stretching or cardio mini-break. Do and New York-based editor at UPI, AP, and the U.S. public, particularly Republicans, this event. fi ve jumping jacks. Touch your toes twice, ABC. She writes a weekly column for The have been receptive to his “What-Me-Wor- Les Whittington is a regular columnist wherever they are, then go put the kettle Hill Times. ry” message, a recent poll showed. And you for The Hill Times. on, then come back, then go make tea, then The Hill Times have to think Trump’s casual attitude to the The Hill Times THE HILL TIMES | WEDNESDAY, MARCH 18, 2020 11

Celina Caesar-Chavannes and to Crown- trade minister. She’s a former Ontario Indigenous Relations Minister Carolyn Liberal staffer, including having been a Bennett in her capacity as the Liberal MP special assistant for policy and execu- for -St. Paul’s, Ont. tive assistant to the principal secretary in Rosalyn Stevens, who was previously then-Ontario premier Kathleen Wynne’s hill climbers a special assistant for digital media and offi ce. outreach in Ms. Monsef’s offi ce during the Kendra Wilcox is working under Ms. last Parliament, is now a senior special as- Williams as a policy adviser. She was by Laura Ryckewaert sistant for communications and planning. previously a special assistant for Atlantic A former assistant to Liberal MP Sonia regional affairs to then-rural economic Sidhu, Ms. Stevens is a former reporter and development minister , editor with EMC Community Newspapers, and an assistant to Ms. Jordan as the among other things. Liberal MP for South Shore-St. Margarets, Christopher Evelyn similarly remains N.S., before that. Former MP Bossio in place as director of operations. A former Laurence Harvey is now a policy and policy adviser with the Canadian Air Quebec regional affairs adviser in the of- Transport Security Authority, Mr. Evelyn fi ce. A former special assistant for policy has been working for Ms. Monsef since in Prime Minister Justin Trudeau’s offi ce now working for December 2015, starting as a policy adviser from 2017 to 2018, she went on to work as in her offi ce as democratic institutions a project offi cer with the Canadian Part- minister. After following the minister to nership for Women and Children’s Health the then-named status of women portfolio and ran as the Liberal Party’s candidate in 2017 as a policy and Ontario regional against Conservative incumbent Steven Gender Equality affairs adviser, Mr. Evelyn was promoted to Blaney in Bellechasse-Les Etchemins- his current role in March 2018. Lévis, Que., last fall. Ultimately, she placed third behind the Bloc Québécois’ candidate and Mr. Blaney, who was re-elected with Minister Monsef roughly 50.1 per cent of the vote. Laurence Harvey has Pictured in the joined Ms. West Block Monsef’s on Dec. 6, team as a 2019, Women policy and and Gender Quebec Equality and regional Rural Economic adviser. Development Photograph Minister Maryam courtesy of Monsef's offi ce LinkedIn includes a number of Christopher Evelyn continues as director of familiar faces operations to Ms. Monsef. Photograph courtesy from her team of LinkedIn last Parliament, and new Matthew Pollesel is now Ms. Monsef’s additions to her director of parliamentary affairs. He joined team include the minister’s offi ce in December and was Skye Wolff has been promoted and is former MP Mike previously part of then-families minister now Ms. Monsef’s Ontario regional affairs Bossio as senior Jean-Yves Duclos’ offi ce, starting in June adviser. She fi rst joined the minister’s team adviser for rural 2017 as a special assistant for media and in May 2017 as executive assistant to the chief of staff. affairs. The Hill ending as a senior special assistant for Times photograph issues management and parliamentary Harry Burton, a former assistant to by Andrew Meade affairs. Ms. Monsef as the Liberal MP for Peter- He’s also a former digital engagement borough-Kawartha, Ont., has joined her specialist with the U.S. Embassy in Ottawa, ministerial offi ce as a special assistant for a former assistant to then-Progressive Con- operations and Atlantic regional affairs servative MP —who later, in adviser. He’s also a former assistant to hired as ministerial staff. Former New 2003, crossed the fl oor to the Liberals and then-Liberal MP . Meanwhile, Yanique Brunswick MP Matt DeCourcey—Ms. was a minister in Prime Minister Justin Joanna Lam is the minister’s regional Williams continues as policy Monsef’s fi ancé—is now a senior adviser Trudeau’s cabinet last Parliament—and affairs adviser for Western Canada and to Finance Minister Bill Morneau, former a former research and communications the Territories. Ms. Lam is a former deputy director to the minister, Quebec MP Ramez Ayoub is now a senior assistant for the Progressive Conservative fi eld organizer for the federal party in adviser for regional affairs to Quebec Party, among other past jobs. B.C., and has previously interned in the while Matthew Pollesel is Lieutenant Pablo Rodriguez, and former Isabella McKenna is working under Mr. ministers’ regional offi ce in Vancouver, the Quebec MP Linda Lapointe is now caucus Pollesel as a special assistant for parlia- Liberal research bureau on the Hill, and director of parliamentary liaison for the Prime Minister’s Offi ce. mentary affairs and issues management; for B.C. Liberal MP . aff airs, and Christopher she was previously focused solely on par- Heather Porter has joined Ms. Monsef’s liamentary affairs in the offi ce, starting in team as the minister’s executive assistant Evelyn is operations the fall of 2018. Before then, Ms. McKenna and scheduler. She’d previously been tack- had been an assistant to now-former Lib- ling scheduling for then-seniors minister director. eral MP Borys Wrzesnewskyj. and her chief of staff (then Yanique Williams continues as director Jude Welch, who is now chief of staff to Ms. of policy to Ms. Monsef, who was fi rst put Tassi as labour minister) since January 2017. omen and Gender Equality and Rural in charge of Women and Gender Equality Finally, Monica Granados is assistant WEconomic Development Minister in January 2017. Ms. Williams fi rst took to Ms. Monsef’s parliamentary secretary, ’s offi ce includes her for- charge of the minister’s policy team in Liberal MP . mer caucus colleague, Mike Bossio, who’s June 2018 and before then was busy as a As previously reported, Leslie O’Leary been hired on as a senior adviser for rural policy adviser and Ontario regional affairs is chief of staff to Ms. Monsef. affairs. adviser to Mr. Champagne as the then- Meanwhile, in other staffi ng news, Mr. Bossio was the MP for the riding Norair Serengulian is now part of Mr. Yanique neighbouring Ms. Monsef’s, Hastings- Rodriguez’s team as Mr. Trudeau’s Quebec Williams Lennox and Addington, Ont., from 2015 Lieutenant. is Ms. until last fall, when he was defeated by Mr. Serengulian, who’s spent the last Monsef’s Conservative MP and leadership candidate almost three years as director of regional director , who won the riding with 41.4 affairs in the ministers’ regional offi ce in of policy. per cent of the vote to Mr. Bossio’s 37.1 per , is director of relations with com- Former MP Mike Bossio, pictured with Prime Photograph cent. munities to Mr. Rodriguez, and continues Minister Justin Trudeau. Photograph courtesy of courtesy of In Ms. Monsef’s offi ce, Mr. Bossio “will to work from Montreal. Facebook LinkedIn be supporting the minister in delivering on As previously reported, Mr. Rodriguez’s the government’s commitment on ensur- For her part, Ms. Howell was last work- staff team as Quebec Lieutenant is spread ing the high-speed broadband coverage in ing in the infrastructure minister’s offi ce, between Ottawa, Montreal, and Québec rural Canada, investing in infrastructure in having started there in the spring of 2017 City. Led by chief of staff Geneviève Hinse, rural communities and creating vibrant ru- as a special assistant for communications the team also currently includes director of ral economies,” according to the minister’s under then-minister , and regional affairs Paul-Christian Nolin and director of communications, Alexandra ending as director of operations and tour senior advisers for regional affairs Éric “Alex” Howell. to now-former infrastructure minister Beaulieu and Mr. Ayoub. Mr. Bossio is one of four former Liberal François-Philippe Champagne. She’s also [email protected] MPs defeated last fall who have since been a former assistant to then-Liberal MP The Hill Times 12 WEDNESDAY, MARCH 18, 2020 | THE HILL TIMES News Coronavirus

A timeline of Canadian ‘Together we will beat this’: MPs COVID-19 developments Jan. 25, 2020 urge care and calm for those • Canada records fi rst “presumptive positive” case in Ontario, a man in his 50s who fell ill after returning from the Chinese city of Wuhan, where the outbreak started. most at-risk with COVID-19 Jan. 28, 2020 • B.C. records its fi rst case of the virus, and within a week, several more are confi rmed, but all who had been connected to people who had travelled to or ‘We go day by day, hour Seniors Minister visited from the affected region in China. Feb. 6, 2020 by hour, maybe minute says many seniors, who are • Ottawa begins repatriating what will eventually be hundreds of residents, by minute and see how among the most chartering two planes to China and airlifting others from Japan on board the vulnerable to Diamond Princess cruise ship. The Diamond Princess had been quarantined off the things are and what coast of Japan since Feb. 3 with about 3,700 passengers on board. It wasn’t until COVID-19, may early March when Canada’s public health offi cer started warning Canadians to the health experts are be feeling anxiety “think twice” about cruise travel. and all Canadians advising,’ says Liberal MP need to do their March 4, 2020 part and listen to . • Bank of Canada cuts interest rates by 50 basis points to 1.25 per cent amid health experts. coronavirus concerns, following in the U.S. Federal Reserve’s footsteps, in an effort The Hill Time to soften the economic impact. Continued from page 1 photograph by • Deputy Prime Minister is named chair of a new cabinet Andrew Meade ally at a high risk anymore, they could committee tasked with managing the federal response to the outbreak, convened relate to the unique anxiety a smaller to “complement” the work of the Incident Response Group that typically meets during a crisis. portion of the population is facing—the elderly, those with a history of heart March 8, 2020 or lung disease, or cancer patients like they once were—as the respiratory been people living in the same B.C. campaign. Though she is in remission, • First COVID-19 death recorded when a B.C. resident in a nursing home died. Offi cials said the man was in his 80s and had other underlying health issues. virus has become a global pandemic nursing home. she said her doctor said that she’s not Seniors Minister Deb Schulte (King- and Canada ramps up its response at a heightened risk for illness. March 11, 2020 every day. , Ont.) is responsible for the seg- “Anything can happen any time,” ment of the population most vulnerable • World Health Organization declares COVID-19 a pandemic. MPs are ‘super-spreaders,’ • The federal government announced a $1-billion fund aimed at mitigating the said Liberal MP Salma Zahid (Scar- to serious complications connected to COVID-19. That can bring added anxiety, Kent says spread of the coronavirus, including $500-million in support to provinces and ter- borough Centre, Ont.) about what she’s ritories, an additional $275-million in funding for research, and waiving one-week learned from a Stage 4 cancer diagno- said Ms. Schulte by email March 17. From his Thornhill, Ont., constitu- “We need to be upfront about the ency offi ce on March 17, Conservative waiting period for employees who need to claim Employment Insurance sickness sis in 2018. Though she was “perfectly benefi ts on account of being quarantined or having to self-isolate. fi ne” at the end of her treatment for added stress to our mental health so MP was on rotation as staff non-Hodgkin lymphoma, at the time it that we can address it,” said Ms. Schul- started a new self-isolation routine. March 12, 2020 was a big shock. “I think that brings me te, who reinforced that Canadians are Residents were encouraged to call “lucky to have one of the best health- in, but someone would be present, on • The prime minister’s wife, Sophie Grégoire Trudeau, who returned from a trip to to accept that, okay, there can be any- the United Kingdom, was tested after having fl u-like symptoms, and by evening, care systems in the world” in a situa- shortened shifts, to address walk-ins. thing in life, so be ready for anything.” the PMO reported she had tested positive. Since his throat cancer diagnosis Every three months she has visits tion where all levels of government are • Justin Trudeau started 14-day self-isolation, but with no symptoms, offi cials said with her oncologist and the most working closely together. in late 2013, he said his wife has been it meant he would not be tested. The in-person First Ministers’ Meeting, planned recent one a few weeks back his “rock,” getting him through for the same day, was cancelled, with Mr. Trudeau instead speaking with premiers reported her blood work was Liberal and there have been lessons over the phone. good—“touch wood,” she said MP Salma learned from his recovery that • The impact of the outbreak, combined with diving oil prices, helped push the with a laugh—and should keep Zahid says they maintain to this day about Canadian stock market to its worst one-day plunge in eight decades. going about her day. her choices keeping a good health and In early 2018, during her are guided diet. March 13, 2020 months of treatment, her white by science, “We’ve been sensitive, • Parliament agrees to suspend for fi ve weeks until at least April 20 after unani- blood cell count was low and health we’ve been prudent and since mous agreement among all parties. she takes a straight-forward experts, and my brush with mortality, I’ve • Senate is recalled to sit on Friday (after it adjourned the day before) to fi nish approach to those who may be a positive been very careful [taking] business, most notably to pass the new NAFTA. in that place right now. outlook. The proper practices in terms of • Canada upgrades advice that international travellers should self-quarantine, “I believe in science and Hill Times washing hands after public but over the weekend, some passengers coming from abroad said they weren’t evidence and what [the health photograph engagements.” properly screened, prompting some provinces—like Quebec, Alberta, and Nova experts] are recommending,” by Samantha Still, he said even with Scotia—and Montreal city offi cials to send their own personnel to make sure the federal job was being done. said Ms. Zahid in an interview Wright Allen such precautions Parliamen- • Treasury Board Secretariat issues directive to federal public servants permitting at her Ottawa offi ce March 12 tarians are “super-spreaders” and it’s good Parliament has them to work from home during the coronavirus pandemic, per their managers’ after Prime Minister Justin discretion. Trudeau (Papineau, Que.) an- been suspended, though he’s nounced he would self isolate “somewhat concerned” at the March 15, 2020 following his wife’s return to length of time away and he’d like House leaders revisit the • Emergency cabinet meeting held in Ottawa where ministers said new measures Canada from England with fl u- were coming, but rebuffed reporters’ questions about why the government was like symptoms, which would decision. “I believe peace, order, and waiting, and why there was insuffi cient screening at several airports. later be confi rmed as COV- • Canada’s public health offi cer Dr. warns the window to fl atten the good government requires ID-19. “We have to be prepared curve is closing. and be optimistic and positive.” government taking the right Canada has more than 420 con- “There is no other country I would decisions and opposition in place March 16, 2020 asking the questions and ensuring fi rmed cases of the virus, and globally rather be in during this global pan- • Mr. Trudeau announces major new measures, including banning entry to most accountability and decisions taken are more than 173,000 people have con- demic. I urge all Canadians to do their foreign nationals, except for U.S. citizens. Anyone with symptoms, regardless of tracted COVID-19 in 152 countries or part: listen to the advice of public the right decisions,” he said. citizenship, will also be denied boarding of fl ights to Canada. territories, with more than 7,000 deaths health offi cials, practice social distanc- Mr. Kent said he worries about • Canadian death toll rises to four, and all are connected to the B.C. nursing home and 80,000 recoveries. ing, proper hygiene and look after each those with vulnerabilities, like the where the fi rst Canadian victim died. While most infected experience other. Together we will beat this.” many seniors in nursing homes in his • Conservative Party says leadership race and rules will go forward, but it would mild symptoms and recover, the World Some provinces are giving special riding, in isolation for too long. give leadership candidates online tools to support efforts to canvas members from Health Organization noted people over warnings to those most vulnerable, like The longer that happens, the more a safe social distance, including making easier to gather online signatures, but the age of 60, and with underlying con- in Quebec where Premier François Le- Canadians “have to think of ensuring declined calls from some to push off the March 25 deadline. ditions such as hypertension, diabetes, gault over the weekend warned seniors they have adequate support in terms March 17, 2020 cardiovascular disease, chronic respi- over the age of 70 to stay at home. If of their food and essentials and also ratory disease, and cancer will have all Parliamentarians lived in la belle maintaining spirits,” he said. • Mr. Trudeau announced Parliament will be recalled for an emergency session to the highest risk of contracting “severe province, that would include at least 28 However low the Canadian number pass legislation and that the government would announce a major economic aid disease,” according to a Feb. 20 report. Senators and 19 MPs, who are 70 years of coronavirus cases might be com- package on March 18 to help workers. The mortality rates—though still evolv- or older. pared other countries, it’s important to • A fi fth Canadian person, a 77-year-old man, dies with COVID-19 detected post- ing given early data and as countries Ms. Schulte is likely able to relate remember “the potential for an explo- mortem, the fi rst in Ontario. with the anxiety she said some seniors sion is still there,” so “we may have to respond differently to the disease—are March 18, 2020 between three and four per cent, the are feeling. In April 2019, she was di- be following these severe precautions WHO said in a March 6 update. That agnosed with non-Hodgkin lymphoma for some time.” • The new border measures come into effect, with only four airports in Toronto, [email protected] risk appears to increase with age, and and fi nished six rounds of chemo- Montreal, Vancouver, and accepting international fl ights. The Hill Times The Hill Times four of the fi ve Canadian deaths have therapy in the midst of the election THE HILL TIMES | WEDNESDAY, MARCH 18, 2020 13

Civil Circles by Mike Lapointe Situation ‘changing hourly’ as feds, unions, public service contend with COVID-19 work- from-home confusion

work sites, while ensuring continued criti- ‘The cal government operations and services to Canadians.” will be as fl exible as possible “The government will continue to sup- Public Service Alliance of Canada national president, Chris Aylward, pictured at a Feb. 28 and will not only allow, but port federal employees from coast to coast demonstration in Ottawa, says strike votes are suspended until at least the end of March. The Hill to coast, who are now working around the Times photograph by Andrew Meade encourage teleworking clock—many of them on the front line—to deliver programs and services and provide are constantly re-assessing the situation “the message from Treasury Board on Fri- whenever and wherever guidance based on sound public policy and and striving to balance both our duty to day was stay at home if you feel sick, stay science.” Canadians and the health and safety of all at home if you don’t feel well, and [Sunday] possible,’ says Treasury Board This message, which went out following public servants.” evening, stay home unless you’re deemed the initial announcement on March 13, when According to the national president of critical and your manager will make that President Jean-Yves Duclos. the Treasury Board guided “all departments the Professional Institute of the Public Ser- determination whether you’re deemed crit- and agencies to be as fl exible as possible” in vice of Canada Debi Daviau, the situation ical and you have to work,” in an interview allowing government employees to work from is “changing hourly.” with The Hill Times Monday afternoon. Continued from page 1 home in the midst of the pandemic—was “not “As of late last night, and I mean late, “When that all trickles down through As with all Canadians now contending for all employees to work from home,” said like midnight, organizations were still try- 300,000 staff, it’s not surprising that some with the coronavirus pandemic, more than Karl Sasseville, director of communications ing to establish what was going to happen messages were confusing,” said Mr. Ayl- and issues management for Treasury Board for today’s work day,” in an interview with ward, who said he was “very happy” with 300,000 federal workers were anxiously The Hill Times awaiting messaging from the government President Jean-Yves Duclos (Québec, Que.). on Monday morning. Treasury Board’s message that “basically as to whether “Each “And from what I understand, most of said ‘stay home unless you’ve been deemed or not they depart- them are doing the right thing. They have critical.’” should come ment will be managers calling employees, they’re sup- Mr. Aylward also said his union has in to work responsible posed to be passing a standard message,” regular calls with the Treasury Board. or not as the for applying said Ms. Daviau. “I really think the Treasury Board is do- work-week that directive,” “Of course there are always those that ing the best they can with everything that’s approached. said Mr. Sas- freelance and don’t say exactly the right going on—this thing is changing by the Accord- seville. thing and that leads to confusion, and hour,” said Mr. Aylward. “I think, within a ing to the “These are there are a couple of departments that as few days, everything will be consistent, and govern- challenging of last night, the last message was business the messaging will be consistent and every- ment’s press times for all as usual, so maybe things hadn’t properly one will be hearing the same thing.” release on Canadians fi ltered through yet or maybe a little more March 16, and we’re all pressure needs to be applied, but we will PSAC suspends cross-country department in this togeth- be talking about those organizations to the manag- er. In the last Treasury Board,” said Ms. Daviau. strike votes On March 13, PSAC announced it would ers were to few days, the Dany Richard, president of the Associa- be suspending strike votes until March 30. consider president has tion of Canadian Financial Offi cers, told The Hill Times “At that time the union will re-evaluate telework for spoken with that the situation is “defi - whether to continue the suspension or resume all employ- union lead- nitely challenging.” the strike votes,” PSAC said in a statement. ees, at all ers to assure “Because these are crazy times, the “We must put the welfare of our members and work sites, them that situation is evolving, not just every day, all Canadians fi rst at this critical time.” while ensur- our govern- but every hour, so when you are dealing These votes include the more than ing contin- ment will do with organizations with a lot of red tape, 120,000 PSAC members of the Canada ued critical what it must like the government, by the time they come Revenue Agency (CRA), Treasury Board, government to guarantee up with a policy, it’s sometimes already and Parks Canada bargaining units. operations the health outdated,” he said in a March 13 interview. Mr. Aylward had only authorized strike and services and safety of “Our members are wondering, what should votes for Parks Canada workers two days to Canadians all public ser- I do now? Is it safe to come to work? Can I earlier, on March 11, with Treasury Board “The vants while telework? What if I have symptoms, what bargaining units scheduled to begin their government ensuring that do I do? There are so many questions out votes on March 16. CRA workers had been of Canada is we continue there.” engaged in strike votes since Feb. 17. doing every- to deliver Mr. Richard said the government is “It’s a wait-and-see kind of thing—in thing it can critical and working with his union as much as they a couple of weeks, we’ll re-evaluate as to to protect the essential can, “simply because it’s changing so what’s going on and where everything is, health and services to quickly and it’s diffi cult to keep everyone and if the advice coming from the public safety of all Debi Daviau, president of the Professional Institute of the Canadians,” fully involved.” health offi cials is to avoid mass gatherings, Canadians as Public Service of Canada, says there are those managers ‘that said Mr. Sas- “But at the end of the day, the govern- then certainly we will respect that and will the country freelance and don’t say exactly the right thing and that leads seville. ment and the unions both want the same continue to postpone those strike votes, be- responds to confusion.’ The Hill Times photograph by Andrew Meade According thing. We want to guarantee the safety of cause some of those meetings could attract to the to Mr. Duclos, our members, but also we want to make three or four hundred people,” he said. COVID-19 guidelines sure that services to Canadians aren’t com- “So we will certainly take the lead and Pandemic, and that includes its own and directives were sent to all departments promised,” said Mr. Richard. “But in order then take direction from the public health workforce,” according to the statement. and agencies by the offi ce of the chief hu- to that, we need to ensure that if I’m going offi cials in that regard,” said Mr. Aylward. “Yesterday, the man resources offi cer. to tell my members, yes, you should report “The safety of our members and the safety Secretariat (TBS) provided additional guid- “The government of Canada will be as to work, I need to be convinced as a union of our staff is certainly paramount in mak- ance to departments and agencies with the fl exible as possible and will not only allow, leader that the government has put every but encourage teleworking whenever and measure in place.” ing any decisions around that.” expectation that managers will consider [email protected] telework for all their employees, at all wherever possible,” said Mr. Duclos in a According to Public Service Alliance of statement provided to The Hill Times. “We Canada national president Chris Aylward, The Hill Times 14 WEDNESDAY, MARCH 18, 2020 | THE HILL TIMES CLASSIFIEDS

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The Hill Times will dig into what’s going with preferential trade access If you washed your hands to foreign markets in and your hand bled this agriculture policy briefi ng; we’ll also look at You would think the ongoing discussions “THIS IS SERIOUS STUFF” on supply management and deregulation; and Why are bleeding gums when we’ll take a close look at you floss any different?? Canada’s federal minister of agriculture and her top legislative priorities in this Parliament. Be a part of this policy briefi ng.

Call to consult • 613 234 5758 For more information or to reserve your government relations [email protected] • [email protected] and public affairs advertising space, contact The Hill Times display advertising department at 613-688-8841. THE HILL TIMES | WEDNESDAY, MARCH 18, 2020 15 Events Feature

TUESDAY, MARCH 31 Diplomatic Circles ’s Summit on Drug Shortages—Globe Parliamentary and Mail columnist André Picard will be the host and moderator; Dr. Jacalyn Duffin, professor emerita, Hannah Chair of the History of Medicine, Queen’s University, will be by Samantha Wright Allen Calendar the keynote speaker; and the panel discussions will include Jennifer Gerdts, executive director Food Allergy Canada; Jeff Mehltretter, director of research Neighbourhood Phar- macies; Terri Drover, senior vice-president, Stakeholder En- gagement, Canadian Association of Pharmacy Distribution Management; James Scongack, executive vice-president, corporate affairs and operational services, Bruce Power; Envoys select top Joelle Walker, vice-president, public affairs, Canadian Phar- macists Association; and Durhane Wong-Rieger, president and CEO, Canadian Organization for Rare Disorders. Tues- day, March 31, 8 a.m. to noon, Shaw Centre, 55 Colonel By Dr., Ottawa. Free event. For full agenda, speakers and Bored while self- tickets, visit globeandmailevents.com/DrugShortages. 12 ambassadors MONDAY, APRIL 6 isolating? Learn The Herblock Prize Award Ceremony & Lecture—Ca- nadian editorial cartoonist Michael de Adder, who draws for The Hill Times and The Chronicle-Herald, will be about FOI tips presented with this prestigious award. José Andrés will of the year at be the lecturer at The Herb Block Foundation’s event on Monday, April 6, 7-10 p.m., Coolidge Auditorium, with Dean Beeby Thomas Jefferson Building, Library of Congress, 10 First St., SE, Washington, D.C. Invitation only. third annual bash on March 20 TUESDAY, APRIL 7 Policy Options Policy Circle: How Does Tax System Com- plexity Impact Different Segments of Canadian Society?—Mod- rom museum exhibitions to events ern Africa for his many cultural and trade WEDNESDAY, MARCH 18 erated by Policy Options‘ editor-in-chief Jennifer Ditchburn, it will be an in-depth, intimate discussion, and will feature Fhighlighting culture and cuisine, to missions since 2019 to Edmonton, Kings- House Not Sitting—The House has been suspended experts who have a deep knowledge of the issue, including strengthening bilateral ties and investment, ton, Windsor, and Montreal; and Nigerian until Monday, April 20, due to the COVID-19 virus. As Prosper Canada’s CO Liz Mulholland; Helen Bobiwash, prin- 12 emissaries were named as their region’s High Adeyinka Olatokunbo of April 20 it is then scheduled to sit for four straight cipal accountant; Brendan Pooran, founding lawyer Pooran Ambassador of the Year at last week’s third Asekun in West Africa for high level visits weeks until May 15. It will take a one-week break and Law; and Jay Goodis, CEO, Tax Templates. The event will annual celebration. in 2019, including by the country’s King, will resume sitting again on May 25 and will sit straight take place on Tuesday, April 7, 9-11 a.m., Rideau Club, 99 Pulled from a pool of more than 130 Adeyeye Ogunwusi, the Ooni of Ife, Ojaja through for the next four consecutive weeks, until it’s Bank St., Lounge Room, 15th floor, Ottawa. Refreshments scheduled to adjourn on June 23. The House adjourns diplomats stationed in Ottawa, they were II in August 2019 to Ontario. will be served. No cost, but registration is required. again for three months and will return in the fall on Mon- Can Canada Lead in Sustainable Agriculture?—There will recognized for their work promoting public Cuban ambassador Josefina Vidal, win- day, Sept. 21, for three straight weeks. It will adjourn for be 10 billion people to feed by 2050. Will we be able to diplomacy. Organizers, which included the ner in the Americas category, was praised one week and will sit again from Oct. 19 until Nov. 6. It nourish them and at the same time address agriculture’s Canadian chapter of the International Public for her work celebrating a Day of Cuban will break again for one week and will sit again from Nov. climate change impacts? Join Nutrien’s Chuck Magro, in Diplomacy Council, said the winning ambas- Culture in late 2019 and for her work with a 16 to Dec. 11. And that will be it for 2020. conversation with The ’s Heather Scoffield sadors were picked through a mix of 1,332 baseball game between the Cuban national Senate Not Sitting—The Senate has also been sus- who will discuss the high-tech future of agriculture and online votes and committee selection after team and the Ottawa Champions in Ottawa pended due to the COVID-19 virus. The possible sitting Canada’s leadership role. April 7, 11:30 a.m. to 1:30 p.m., days are April 20, 24, 27, and May 1. The Senate is Adam Room, Chateau Laurier Hotel, 1 Rideau St., Ottawa. research of each’s work during the year. earlier that year. For the South America scheduled to sit April 21-23 and April 28-30. The pos- Held at the University of Ottawa on award, Peruvian Ambassador Roberto sible Senate sittings are May 4, 8, 11, 15, 25, and 29. WEDNESDAY, APRIL 15 March 11, about 70 people gathered to Rodriguez helped bring an exhibition on the The Senate is scheduled to sit May 5-7 and May 12-May AI and Human Rights Forum—The Montreal Institute celebrate their colleagues while trying to pre-Inca cultures and Incan Empire to the 14. The Senate will break May 18-22. It is scheduled of Genocide and Human Rights Studies, Element AI, the keep a safe distance, bumping elbows and Montréal Archaeology and History Museum to sit May 26-28. The June possible sitting days are Embassy of the Kingdom of the Netherlands, Mitacs, and foregoing cheek kisses and handshakes in and, on the other side of the country, the June 1, 5, 8, 12, 15 and 19. The Senate is scheduled the Canadian Commission for UNESCO will be holding the greeting. That went out the window when embassy organized a visit of the Peruvian to sit June 2-4; June 9-11; June 16-18; and June 22, Forum on April 15 at the De Seve Cinema in Concordia 23, it breaks June 24 for St. Jean Baptiste Day; and the awards were presented as the winners tall ship “Union” to Vancouver, B.C. University. Panel discussions will cover such topics as it’s scheduled to sit June 25 and June 26. The Senate disinformation, online hate, ethics, AI governance, the shook hands as they collected their prize, a Later in the evening with only two breaks from June 29 until Sept. 22. The Senate’s pos- United Nations and global co-operation. Speakers include handmade Inukshuk sculpture that master names left to announce, a woman inter- sible September sitting days are Sept. 21, 25, 28. It’s representatives from WITNESS, Amnesty International, of ceremonies Judée Berthil said was “a rupted the event, upset that only one woman scheduled to sit Sept. 22-24 and Sept. 29-Oct. 1, with Stanford, Access Now, and the Office of the UN High symbol of hope and friendship.” was among the 12 celebrated that evening. a possible sitting day on Friday, Oct. 2. The possible Commission on Human Rights. For tickets, please visit Cameroon High Commissioner Solomon After receiving her award, the Cuban am- Senate sitting days are Oct. 5, 9, 19, 23, 26, and 30. https://www.eventbrite.ca/e/artificial-intelligence-and- Anu’a Gheyle Azoh-Mbi spoke as dean of bassador said she felt it was an unfair criti- It’s scheduled to sit Oct. 6-8; it takes a break from Oct. human-rights-forum-tickets-88682486705 12-16; it will sit Oct. 20-22; and Oct. 27-29. The No- the diplomatic corps, telling the crowd that cism, noting three women won last year. vember possible Senate days are: Nov. 2, 6, 16, 20, 23, FRIDAY, APRIL 17 the awards celebrate efforts to promote Canada is a leader and “among the fi rst” 27, 30. It’s scheduled to sit Nov. 3-5; it will take a break Conservative Party English-Language Debate—The public diplomacy directly with people. when it comes to having many women from Nov. 9-13; it will sit Nov. 17-19; and Nov. 24-26. Conservative Party will host two official leadership Invoking the words of former U.S. sec- stationed as emissaries, she added, and The possible December Senate sitting days are: Dec. 4, debates—one English debate in Toronto, and one French retary of state Hillary Clinton, he said the through her participation with the women’s 7, and 11. The Senate is scheduled to sit Dec. 1-3; Dec. debate in Montreal. The Toronto debate will take place community also tries to “take diplomacy out head of mission group, women are often 8-10 and it will sit Dec. 14-18. on April 17 at the Metro Toronto Convention Centre, of capitals, out of government offi ces, into called to participate. THURSDAY, MARCH 19 while the Montreal debate will take place on April 23 at the media, into the streets of countries.” the l’Amphithéâtre du Gesù. Both debates will be open In Eastern Europe, High Com- De-escalation With Iran?—The NATO Association These countries “bring the world to for Conservative Party members to attend, and further missioner Vasilios Philppou was tapped for of Canada hosts a discussion on “De-escalation with details around ticketing, the format of the debates, and Canada,” but it’s “not one-way traffi c,” he his work with universities and a museum Iran?” featuring Dr. Michael Atallah, senior Middle East moderators will be announced later. Both debates will also said, praising Global Affairs Canada’s exhibition, and in Western Europe, Italian analyst at the Privy Council Office with a specialization be streamed live online. Canadians who wish to vote in program to show off Canadian culture, like Ambassador Claudio Taffuri was recog- on the Levant and the Persian Gulf; and Thomas Ju- the Conservative Party leadership election have until April the northern tour that takes emissaries to nized. In the Middle East, Yemen Ambas- neau, associate professor at the University of Ottawa’s 17 to purchase a membership to be eligible to vote in the the Arctic and territories. Stewart Wheeler sador Jamal Al-Sallal was cited for cultural Graduate School of Public and International Affairs. Conservative leadership election. For more information, This event will take place at the Clocktower Brew Pub, contact the Conservative Party at 1-866-808-8407. was frequently on speakers’ lips as they events at universities across the country 575 Bank St., Ottawa, on Thursday, March 19, from thanked Global Affairs Canada’s chief of and support for Yemen students. 5:30-7:30 p.m. Tickets $10 and guests must bring a The Parliamentary Calendar is a free events listing. protocol for his work since he took over For Asia, South Korean Ambassador piece of government-issued ID. Send in your political, cultural, diplomatic, or governmental event in a paragraph with all the relevant details under the the fi le last January. Maeng-ho Shin claimed the top spot for a FRIDAY, MARCH 20 Five ambassadors from Africa were rec- subject line ‘Parliamentary Calendar’ to news@hilltimes. speakers series, culture exchanges in the com by Wednesday at noon before the Monday paper or by ognized: Kenyan High Commissioner John North, and the October 2019 Ottawa Kore- The Canadian Association of Journalists Presents FOI Friday With Dean Beeby—FOI Friday is back! After a long Friday at noon for the Wednesday paper. We can’t guaran- Lepi Lanyasunya in Eastern Africa for the an Film Festival, which included Academy tee inclusion of every event, but we will defi nitely do our second year in a row for his work with the Parasite absence, we’re bringing one of the deans of FOI to walk Award-winning best fi lm, . us through the new ATIP system. Bill C-58 has changed best. Events can be updated daily online, too. diaspora, including Jamhuri Day events And in Southeast Asia, Indonesian the federal access-to-information landscape. What’s The Hill Times in four Canadian cities and discussions to Ambassador Abdul Kadir Jailani, also his changed, for better and worse, and how can journalists partner on training with three academic country’s Digital Head of Mission Award best cope? Dean Beeby has decades of experience with institutions; Tunisian Ambassador Mo- winner, won for organizing several confer- FOI, publishing four books and breaking hundreds of Extra! Extra! hamed Imed Torjemane in North Africa for ences and Indonesia Festival 2019. scoops through ATIP requests for the Canadian Press “building bridges” in the artifi cial intelli- The awards also gave nods to other no- and CBC. This session will be streamed on Face- RReadead the full gence sector and helping get 10 Canadian table members of the community, including book; RSVP to get a notification: www.facebook.com/ events/200324907853215/ Questions? Dylan Rob- ParliamentaParliamentaryry information and communications technol- Sam Garcia, a popular photographer who ertson can be reached at 613.857.9583 or ottawa@ ogy companies investing in his country, documents Ottawa’s many diplomatic events caj.ca. Friday, March 20, 12 to 1 p.m., National Press CCalendaralendar and fi ve Tunisian companies investing in and a regular contributor to The Hill Times. Building (150 Wellington St.), first floor. Canada; Chad’s Ambassador Mahamat The ever-active and sociable former Ca- TUESDAY, MARCH 24 Ali Adoum in Central Africa for fi nalizing nadian diplomat Larry Lederman was also online agreements with schools, like the Uni- recognized for his work organizing the Scotch and Chocolate Pairing—Jamie Johnson, of versity of Ottawa, starting an agreement monthly Carleton University ambassador The Balvenie, and Erik Hansen, of DesBarres Choco- lates, will host a Scotch and chocolate pairing at the already underway for the promotion and speaker series. [email protected] Montgomery Scotch Lounge, 1154 Bank St. in Ottawa protection of foreign investments; Zambian on March 24 from 7-9:30 p.m. Tickets are $49 plus tax High Commissioner Felix Mfula in South- The Hill Times person. Invitation only. The Hill Times is offering free access to all our coverage during the COVID-19 pandemic crisis. For the next few weeks, The Hill Times is offering free access to all our news and analysis during the COVID-19 pandemic crisis. We are also expanding The Hill Times’ print edition in PDF format to all elected provincial officials, provincial cabinet ministers, and their respective staff across Canada. The Hill Times is taking extra steps to ensure the print edition in PDF format is delivered to all senior decision-makers, in isolation or not. All readers of The Hill Times, including cabinet ministers, MPs, Senators, political staff, senior bureaucrats, and officials in the PMO and PCO will continue to receive their Hill Times’ digital edition (PDF) twice a week, along with our daily coverage on HillTimes.com, and our seven-days- a-week special email briefings. Print subscriptions will continue to be delivered twice a week. We offer trustworthy political and policy coverage. We’re keeping on top of key policy develop- ments in order to help to keep our readers well-informed and we’ll keep shining a light on Can- ada’s federal government and Parliament during this critical time. The Hill Times’ newsrooms take pride in delivering the dependable and in-depth news and analysis that decision-makers rely on. hilltimes.com/subscribe

EnergyEnergy policypoliiccy Which federal briefifi ng departments pp.pp. 1515-26-26 saw DeborahDeborah CarloCarloss RRiRichardich Philippe results? HarfHarfordord A. MuMurillouririlllloo CCaCanningsann Le Billon pp. 6-7 We’re adding to Transportation crisis in relationship policy briefi ng: with Indigenous THIRTY-FIRSTTHIRTY-FIRST YEAR, NO. 1710 CANADAANADA’S POLITICSOLITICS ANDA GOVERNMENT NEWSPAPER WEDNESDAY, MARCH 11, 2020 $5.00 Hill Conservative lleadershipeadership racracee House committees , Ashley Morton, Philip Cross, peoples: NewsNews News Pedro Antunes, Roger Francis, Climbers No committee Sara Kirk, & Alec Soucy pp. 17-25 Party p.38 Rose Lemay p. 4 DeadlineDeadline loomslooms fforo low-profi le or caucus roles, Central longtime p.37 CPCCPC candidates,candidates, wwho say party Tory MP still HOH needs more fresh faces,f ideas sidelined after p.2 The ‘traditional playbooksplaybooks of smaller ggovernment,overnment, lower taxes, ttough on crime,’ won’t work to widen the blue breaking rank tent, says one candidate. ‘We need to break the ceiling and win tthe support of more Canadians.’ BY LAURA RYCKEWAERT

RTY-FIRST YEAR, NO. 1705 CANADA’S POLITICS AND GOVERNMENT NEWSPAPER MONDAY, FEBRUARY 24, 2020 $5.00 fter being stripped of his Acritic duties during the last Parliament for voting against the party line, longtime Conservative s Wet’suwet’enNews Prime Minister News NAFTA 2.0 MP Scott Reid has been entirely left off of House committee mem- Downe calls bership lists this time around. NDRIP Up until this Parliament, Mr. Trudeau’s handling of Reid had spent 15 years as a for Parliament member of the Procedure and ovides ‘guide’ House Affairs Committee (PROC). to have power “I did not request to be free resolving Wet’suwet’en blockades critical from a committee assignment,” Mr. Reid (Lanark-Frontenac- nsions among to amend new Kingston, Ont.) said in an email response to questions from The NAFTA, Liberals Hill Times. digenous to his political credibility, Mr. Reid declined an interview pledge to share by phone during the break week mmunities last week on the subject, and did not respond when asked whether er questions reconciliation, say former objectives of There are fi ve lesser-knowns running to be Conservative Party leader, including, from left, Jim Karahalios, Derek Sloan, Rick Peterson, Rudy Husny, and Leslyn he believed his lack of committee To subscribe, call 613-288-1146 or emailLeLewis.wis. Photographs courtesycourtesy of Jim Karahalios, [email protected] RickRick Peterson, RudyRudy Husny, Twitter,Twitter, and FacebookFace assignments this Parliament was future trade down to continued punishment authority, BYBY SAMANTHASAMANTHA WRIGHTWRIGHT ALLEN ttoo some of the lesser-known leader-leader- Beyond Mr. MacKay, Mr. have struggled to get much air for his having previously voted cabinet minister, pollsters talks with House sshiphip candidates who say the front- O’TooO’Toolele (Durham,(D Ont.), and two- time in a race that was ramping against the party line and for y experts he Conservative Party needs runners, fformerormer cacabinetbinet ministers term ConConservative MP Marilyn up even before the federal elec- speaking out about it. a new face, fresh ideas, and to Peter MacKay and Erin O’Toole, are Gladu (S(Sarnia—Lambton,a Ont.), “Unfortunately, responding greement #40068926 T to these questions would involve A

BY NEIL MOSS l sstoptop rerehashinghashing ooldld ffeuds,euds, accoraccordingding operating by tthehe old playbooplaybook.k. fi ve other declared candidates Continued on page 12 EATRICE PAEZ a breach of the conventional he power of American lawmak- practice of caucus confi dentiality,” ers to modify trade agreements he wrote. gislation that would imple- T ications Mai bl PPhoenixhoenix pay systesystemm As caucus whip, Conservative ment the UN’s declaration has inspired their Canadian counter- u NewsNews Publications Mail Agreement #40068926 P A ndigenous rights provides a parts to Tolook for more of their own advertise, call 613-688-8841 or email [email protected] Mark Strahl (Chilliwack– Hope, B.C.) oversees the commit- de forward” in reconciling infl uence over the trade negotiation tee assignment process. Asked process, say some parliamentarians. ensions at play between the ‘Everything we ddidn’tidn’t ddoo with PhPhoenix’:o feds tap SAP for about Mr. Reid’s lack of assign- CSG Senator Percy Downe Continued on page 28 ments, and whether it was part (Charlottetown, P.E.I.) said the work workwork on llonong-awaite-awaitedd Phoenix rreeplacement pilot project of continued punishment, in an email Mr Strahl said“Mr Reid is