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Home , 33rd Canadian Parliament, Alex Ruff, Bob Benzen, Bob Zimmer, Brad Trost, Cathay Wagantall

Publications Mail Agreement #40068926 P strategists, but say goodbye to fallelection talk WE scandal won’t shapenext election, say News THIRTY-FIRST YEAR, NO.1746 BY PETER MAZEREEUW concern’ to than last time,’ and of ‘deep likely to be‘ugly or uglier U.S. presidential campaign News W deep concern.” presidential electionis “an areaof ing ondown south, andthat the extremely tunedintowhat’s go- Hill Times that Canadiansare Research Frank Graves toldThe instinct.” cause ofDonald Trump’s survival “uglier thanthelasttimebe- which somepollstersexpecttobe tial electioncampaignheats up, political situation asthepresiden- very closeattention totheU.S. Aug. 21, Canadiansarepaying -U.S. border closureuntil country, andtheextensionof States, casesontheriseinthat BY MIKE LAPOINTE Gwynne Dyer warning from Poland U.S. election will have real outcomes for us,nomatter who wins Canada should reach out to Africa, beauthentic innext campaignfor UNSecurity Councilseat Canada must alsocurb itsown wildlife trade to prevent future pandemics to threepartiessay the WE olitical strategists withties Pollster andpresidentofEkos Michael to COVID-19 intheUnited ith skyrocketing deaths due Harris p.10 Continued onpage 20

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urgentneed to T O’Toole campaign campaign, says hacked by MacKay itallegation was campaign probing O’Toole commissioner Elections RCMP, Canada News including ourlegalcounsel any otherauthority. ongoing investigation by policeor unaware oftheexistenceany Times that theircampaignis MacKay campaigntoldThe Hill said. be brought tojustice,” Ms. Paradis theft ofconfidentialmaterials will data breachandtheresulting course, thoseresponsibleforthe only that they’re ongoing. vestigations willconcludesaying any specificson when thesein- of what tookplace.” with theelectionscommissioner, tion afterwe notifiedthem, along they have launchedaninvestiga- Police Serviceagree, and nal matter. The RCMPandthe not apoliticalmatter; itisacrimi- paign, inanemail. “This isalso O’Toole (Durham, Ont.)cam- Paradis, aspokesperson forthe misrepresentations,” said Melanie place, ormuddy thewaters with the technicaldetailsofwhat took Times. O’Toole campaigntoldThe Hill campaign, aspokesperson forthe legation againstthePeter MacKay O’Toole campaign’shacking al- have startedprobing theErin BY ABBAS RANA BY ABBAS MONDAY, JULY 20,2020$5.00 “No onefrom ourcampaign, But aspokesman forthe “We areconfidentthat, indue Ms. Paradis declinedtoshare “It’s easytobeconfusedby sioner of Canada Elections sioner ofCanadaElections he RCMPandthecommis- Continued onpage 4 p. 16

p. 15 p. 13 p. 17 2 MONDAY, JULY 20, 2020 | THE HILL TIMES

and that we must not take them for granted. Through democracy, citizens and their Heard on the Hill elected leaders can learn and grow. Never has it been by Palak Mangat more important for them to do that,” the letter said. Former prime minister It continued is among the that democracy “is Prime Minister and Finance signatories on a letter the best system Minister , pictured holding the 2016 Conservative leadership budget, are both under investigation by the ethics calling on world powers of government” to ‘defend democracy’ to address the commissioner for their involvement in the WE amid the pandemic. pandemic, as op- Charity controversy. The Hill Times file photograph The Hill Times file hopefuls square off in posed to the “self- ing an investigation into whether Finance Min- photograph serving claims ister Bill Morneau also breached the Conflict of authoritarian of Interest Act. Mr. Morneau’s daughter, Clare, propaganda.” Among those who have has spoken at the charity’s events and his late-July debate hosted their names attached to the document daughter, Grace, is a contractual worker. Mr. are former foreign affairs minister Lloyd Dion is already probing Mr. Trudeau’s involve- Axworthy, former prime ministers Stephen ment, after it was revealed by Canadaland that by Independent Press Harper and Joe Clark, Conservative Party his mother Margaret and brother Alexandre leadership hopeful Peter MacKay, former earned speaking fees from the group. NDP leader Tom Mulcair, former sena- The government is facing pressure on tor , current Liberal MP Anita multiple fronts: at least two House commit- Gallery of Canada Vandenbeld, and newly appointed UN tees are studying the matter; some student ambassador Bob Rae. The Parliamentary advocates are calling on to ditch the Centre has endorsed the calls to protect program altogether; and others are criticiz- our leadership hopefuls for the Conser- programs like and Mike democracy and civil liberties threatened by ing the relief measures as not having gone Fvative Party will take part in a debate Duffy Live, among others. “A fond farewell the pandemic, and said in a July 15 release far enough to help older students. Last later this month, at the Independent Press from @BanffMayor she’s sending me back that though some restrictions are justified, week’s developments also included the char- Gallery of Canada’s first event on July 29. to #ottcity to hang with @cathmckenna. they must be temporary, proportionate, ity pledging to “return to its roots” by priori- , Peter MacKay, Erin O’Toole, Thank you … for the best 3 years of our and have effective oversight. “It is para- tizing “international development work,” and and will square off in the lives! We’ll miss you!” tweeted Ms. Thomp- mount that any extraordinary actions are committing to “a series of governance and debate moderated by True North’s Andrew son on July 15, alongside a photo of her ended as soon as the crisis period is over,” structural changes.” The charity is bringing Lawton, an event that will also feature an elbow bumping Karen Sorensen, Banff’s the centre said in the release, noting such in former education commissioner appearance by Independent Press gallery mayor. Ms. Thompson begins her new job measures include freedom of assembly and Avis Glaze to do a workplace review and president Candice Malcolm. The debate as the National Gallery of Canada’s vice- of movement. former Ontario lieutenant governor David will be streamed on the gallery’s page and president of corporate/public affairs and Onley as counsel during its “transformation.” broadcast live from Toronto, beginning at marketing on Aug. 17. [email protected] 7 p.m., along with media availabilities for Time to start thinking big The Federation for the Humanities and The Hill Times the candidates. Voting for a new leader is Social Sciences’ Big Thinking lecture series currently underway, and the party said Tory MP paired up on TVO’s is looking for speakers in the fall on the July 14 that more than 269,000 members topic of the 2020 U.S. election, which is are eligible to vote in the race. About Conservative MP Cathy McLeod said last Editor’s Note: slated for Nov. 3. In an update on its web- 100,000 of those memberships were bought week that she was filming for TVO’s Political page, the group invites people to submit in 2020, and the party said it is the largest Blind Date show, a six-part series that brings apology to our readers their ideas on topics spanning the fallout membership in party history. A replace- together politicians of different stripes to of the pandemic, international relations ment for outgoing leader is talk shop on important topics to voters. “‘You BY KATE MALLOY and global security, inequality and social to be named on Aug. 21. The Independent never know who you will get set up with,’” she justice, and climate change, among others. Press Gallery, meanwhile, bills itself as “an tweeted on July 14, adding that she’s been film- n April 6, 2020, The Hill Times pub- lished an op-ed headlined, “Iraq de- alternative to the government-influenced ing in Kamloops, B.C. “Will show in fall 2020 The Federation for O serves to be free from Iranian meddling,” Parliamentary Press Gallery.” and all #COVID19 precautions in place for the the Humanities and both online and on page six of that day’s day.” Who she’s been paired up with is any- Social Sciences newspaper. Homecoming for former journo, one’s guess though (her office did not return a is looking for request for comment in time for publication). speakers for its Big Unfortunately, we have since learned current arts exec Rosemary Over its three Thinking lecture that the op-ed was written as part of an seasons so far, the series in the fall international propaganda campaign, Thompson according to The Daily Beast, and that show has featured on the topic of Hillites will welcome back Rosemary the purported author of the op-ed, Joseph Parliamentarians like the U.S. election, Thompson to her stomping grounds when Labba, was in fact a false persona created Conservative MPs which will see the former CTV journalist-turned-arts exec by this campaign to insert op-eds in more , President Donald returns to Ottawa for a new job with the than 40 news outlets around the world, , Trump try to defend National Gallery of Canada next month. including The Hill Times. Pierre Paul-Hus, and his role. Photograph Ms. Thompson, the former deputy chief for The Hill Times was alerted to this by Conservative Leader courtesy of Global CTV’s parliamentary bureau, is fresh off one of our readers and we have since the heels of a three-year stint at the Banff Andrew Scheer. Affairs Canada Liberals featured on removed the column, the author, and have Centre for Arts and Creativity, where she posted a note to our readers online in place was vice-president of marketing and devel- the show included Conservative MP MPs Marco Mendi- of the op-ed. opment for the centre. Before that, Since 1994, the series has seen more than Cathy McLeod will cino, , Publishing this op-ed was a breach she served with the National Arts Centre 50 researchers present their findings to thou- be on an episode of and Gary Ananda- of The Hill Times’ editorial standards. We for eight years,until 2017 as its director of sands of civic leaders involved in policy and TVO’s Political Blind sangaree, while NDP strive to provide our readers with accurate communications and public affairs, follow- decision-making in Ottawa. The series is held Date in the fall. Leader Jagmeet information at all times. On behalf of ing two decades of experience in network up to six times each year, and the lectures are Photograph courtesy of Singh and his party The Hill Times, I want to apologize to our TV with CBC and CTV. held when the House and Senate are in ses- House of Commons colleagues Jenny readers for this clear lack of due diligence As a reporter, she covered campaigns sion, presenting “a high profile [opportunity] Kwan and Romeo to confirm the author’s authenticity, which in the U.S., , and Ottawa, and was to introduce evidence from current research Saganash have also I take full responsibility for. The Hill Times CTV’s first female Washington corre- on the most pressing public policy issues.” made appearances. The half-hour instal- has editorial practices in place to ensure spondent, making guest appearances on Those who often tune into the series are MPs, ments have covered hot-button topics like this does not happen again. Senators, media, and policymakers, and past the carbon tax, transportation, affordable Kate Malloy is editor-in-chief of The topics have included the promotion of refugees’ housing, and marijuana. Hill Times. health and artificial intelligence. Interested applicants must submit a title and abstract of ‘Defend democracy,’ say politicos up to 200 words of their proposed talk and a Some former Parliamentarians have lent resume by Aug. 7. This year’s event will be held CORRECTION: The Hill Times, June 22 issue their names to an open letter calling for virtually sometime between Oct. 20 and Nov. governments to “defend democracy” amid the 17, though a date has yet to be finalized. Re: “RCMP use-of-force policies include COVID-19 pandemic. Organized by Swe- three out of eight rules championed by den’s Institute for Democracy and Electoral police reform campaign,” The Hill Times, Assistance and Washington-based National WE Charity, feds controversy (June 22, p. 1). This story incorrectly stated Endowment for Democracy, institutions and deepens that RCMP officers were responsible for civic leaders around the world have signed Prime Minister Justin Trudeau and his Former CTV reporter Rosemary Thompson, left, shooting a woman during a wellness check onto the letter released on June 25. “The government’s involvement in handing a now- is heading back to Ottawa for a new gig with the in . In fact, Chantel Moore greatest strength of democracy is its capacity nixed $900-million contract to WE Charity National Gallery of Canada. She’s seen giving an was fatally shot by an officer from the for self-correction. The COVID-19 crisis is for a troubled student service grant remained elbow bump to Karen Sorensen, mayor of Banff, a Edmundston Police Department on June 4. an alarming wake-up call, an urgent warn- in the spotlight last week. On July 16, Ethics city she’s spent the last three years in. Photograph The Hill Times regrets the error. courtesy of Rosemary Thompson’s ing that the freedoms we cherish are at risk Commissioner Mario Dion said he was launch- THE COMPLETE, MADE IN CANADA PROPELLER SHAFT SOLUTION Thordon Bearings Inc., Dominis Engineering Ltd. and Patriot Forge Co., three world-class, family-owned and operated high-performance manufacturing businesses in Ontario, have joined forces as a consortium to provide fully integrated and complete vessel shaftline systems for Canada’s most important vessels included in Canada’s National Shipbuilding Strategy. These global industry leaders will provide the highest quality shaftline system to significantly improve operational performance, lower costs for Canada’s Navy and Coast Guard and create sustainable jobs in the critically important Canadian manufacturing sector. For the past 30 years some of the most critical and core major ship equipment have been supplied from overseas. 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old intern of Conservative MP “We have provided informa- Greg McLean ( Centre, tion, but we have not asked them Alta.), a supporter of Mr. O’Toole, to investigate bc this is a criminal allegedly gave the log-in and pass- matter,” wrote Ms. Paradis in a word credentials to Jamie Lall, an tweet, last month. “The request Alberta organizer for Mr. MacKay. for an investigation has been According to a letter sent submitted to the RCMP, OPP, and by the O’Toole campaign to the Toronto Police.” RCMP, Toronto Police and OPP Ms. Paradis echoed this view on June 19, the log-in creden- in her interview with The Hill tials were used to download a Times,last week. She said the significant amount of strategy O’Toole campaign did not file an information, more than 100 hours official request of investigation of Zoom videos of strategy to LEOC because it believes “it’s meetings, and other informa- a criminal matter” and that the tion allegedly by supporters of police should conduct an investi- Mr. MacKay in Alberta and in gation. Ontario. The intern in question, A Conservative Party spokes- who has now been let go by Mr. man declined to say whether the McLean, has taken full responsi- Conservative Party, or LEOC is bility and in a statement to The investigating the complaint. and CBC last month “As we understand from media has said that he downloaded the reports that this may be a mat- Conservative MP and former cabinet minister Erin O’Toole, pictured with his wife Rebecca and their children, Mollie information and sent it to Mr. ter under consideration by legal and Jack, has accused the MacKay campaign of stealing confidential strategy information but the former cabinet Lall but does not know if Mr. Lall authorities, the party and LEOC minister’s campaign categorically denies the allegations. The RCMP is looking into it. The Hill Times file photograph accessed the information. Mr. Lall will not be making comment,” and the MacKay campaign have said Cory Hann, director of com- categorically denied any wrong- munications for the Conservative doing. But the O’Toole campaign Party. stands by its allegation. Conservative sources, mean- “We believe it is important while, told The Hill Times last RCMP, Canada Elections to present the complete set of week that LEOC is not investigat- facts regarding the recent data ing the issue. breach which impacted our cam- It’s not unusual for leadership paign,” Ms. Paradis told The Hill campaigns of any party to get commissioner probing Times last week. nasty and divisive but calling in a “A significant amount of our police force to investigate a rival confidential campaign data and candidate’s campaign’s alleged strategy was illegally accessed questionable tactics is a rarity. and stolen after an individual Former Conser- O’Toole campaign outside our campaign obtained vative MP who came in an administrative password to fourth place in the 2017 leader- our Zoom video conferencing ac- ship election said that LEOC count,” Ms. Paradis alleged. must investigate this issue and allegation it was hacked Mr. Lall and the intern did not take appropriate action in order respond to interview requests to reassure party members that from The Hill Times. Mr. Lall, the Conservative Party is commit- however, in an interview with The ted to holding a fair nomination by MacKay campaign, Toronto Star denied all allega- contest and will not allow dirty tions, adding that he’s “aggres- tricks. sively pursuing” legal action “The LEOC needs to get against the O’Toole campaign. involved and find out what’s true “All of these allegations I and what’s not, and sort this out says O’Toole campaign categorically deny, every single for the good of the party national- one of them,” said Mr. Lall. “I had ly,” said Mr. Trost who is support- nothing to do with this.” ing Toronto Leslyn Lewis A Conservative source familiar investigation, if there is a viola- Mr. Lall also tweeted on June and Conservative MP Derek ‘No one from with the file told The Hill Times tion of the act, she said. 20 that “not a single word” of the Sloan’s leadership campaigns. that a Toronto Police detec- “In keeping with the confi- O’Toole campaign’s allegations “We do not need this hang- our campaign, tive who works with the cyber dentiality provisions of the act, is true. ing over if Peter MacKay wins, including our legal crimes wing has interviewed the Office of the Commissioner None of the allegations have and if it turns out that his team some O’Toole campaign staff- of Canada Elections does not been tested in a court of law. stole the data from the O’Toole counsel, has been ers to gather evidence and other confirm whether it is conducting The O’Toole campaign has people, then it’s an illegitimate information relevant to the al- an investigation, or not, into a also provided information about win fairly clearly, particularly if contacted about this legations. Reached by email, the particular matter,” said Ms. Crous- its hacking allegation against the it’s close. But if they didn’t, it had detective told The Hill Times that sette. “As a result, I’m not able MacKay campaign to the Conser- nothing to do with it, they should investigation by any the RCMP has now taken over to speak to the specifics of your vative Party’s Leadership Election be given a clean pass and not be the file. He did not provide any question.” Organization Committee, but has blamed for anything to do with authorities or police details. The RCMP in response At issue is the allegation by the not made a formal request for it. So, LEOC should actually get organizations,’ says to a query from The Hill Times O’Toole campaign that a 19-year- investigation. involved and try to investigate declined to share the status of the this ASAP and clear the matter Chisholm Pothier, investigation. up,” said Mr. Trost. “The RCMP is examining this Mr. Trost said the allegation a spokesperson for matter carefully with all available is tough to prove in a court of information and will take appro- law and that an investigation the Peter MacKay priate actions as required,” wrote could be completed long after the the media relations services of leadership election. But if LEOC campaign. the RCMP’s national division. “It undertook an investigation, he would be inappropriate for us to said, it wouldn’t have to meet provide any more comments on the same burden of proof that a Continued from page 1 this matter at this time.” police force has to file any pos- has been contacted about this Myriam Croussette, a spokes- sible charges. Also, he said, LEOC investigation by any authorities person for the commissioner of could complete its investigation a or police organizations,” said Canada Elections, said the office lot earlier than a criminal police Chisholm Pothier, a spokesperson does not confirm or deny the investigation. for the MacKay campaign in an existence of any investigations But some Conservative sourc- interview with The Hill Times. for privacy reasons. She said es familiar with the issue dis- “And my only comment would be, the office reviews all complaints agreed, arguing that LEOC would I will let others speculate on what it receives and will launch an not have been able to conduct this tactic by the O’Toole cam- investigation only if it sees any this investigation as it involves paign means about the state of evidence that a violation may potentially a criminal matter and the O’Toole campaign. But I’m not have occurred. The office makes Former cabinet minister Peter MacKay, pictured with his wife, Nazanin does not have the legal authority going to comment on something the information public on its web- Afshin-Jam, is the front- runner in the Conservative leadership election. His to complete the job. that is allegedly under investiga- site about a specific complaint campaign says they have not been contacted by anyone regarding the hacking [email protected] tion.” only after the conclusion of an allegation investigation. The Hill Times file photograph The Hill Times THE HILL TIMES | MONDAY, JULY 20, 2020 5 News SPONSORED BY THE AEROSPACE INDUSTRIES ASSOCIATION OF CANADA If MacKay doesn’t win on the first OPEN LETTER to Canada’s federal party leaders and all MP’s from Canada’s 215,000 strong aerospace industry. ballot, social TIME FOR ACTION!

The Right Honourable Justin Trudeau, P.C., M.P., Andrew Scheer, Leader of the Conservative Party Conservative , Leader of the Yves-François Blanchet, Leader of the Bloc Québécois Party , Green Party Leader voters critical in Dear Prime Minister and Federal Party Leaders, RE: Your commitment and action is required now! On behalf of the Aerospace Industries Association of Canada, we would like to extend our appreciation to you, our country’s political leadership, for your ongoing work as our country copes the leadership with the effects of COVID-19. As the national association representing more than 95% of aerospace activity in Canada, our members are located in all regions of the country and range from very small to very large businesses operating in all three segments: space, aerospace and defence. outcome, say Even prior to the catastrophic consequences of COVID-19, Canada’s aerospace sector was losing ground. In fact, we raised alarm bells a year ago when we released the Vision 2025 report that outlined industry and stakeholder feedback and recommendations needed to protect Canada’s slipping aerospace position. Despite these alarm bells, the federal government took little action. And now, facing pressures political players and losses that are the biggest in aviation history, Canada has slipped even further. While our major competitor countries have implemented sector specific plans and recovery measures, Canada has continued to sit idly by. Our once-held fifth place ranking on the global Conservative stage has fallen to number seven. And international experts predict that we will continue to fall in Party ranking if no action is taken.1 With this loss in standing comes losses in jobs and annual Gross members Domestic Product (GDP) to Canada. are currently in the These are real consequences and now is the time to act. process of choosing New polling data compiled by Pollara Strategic Insights shows overwhelming support from the Canadians for a comprehensive aerospace strategy. While the results showed Canadians don’t successor have a strong familiarity with the industry (18% saying they are not at all familiar and 3% being to outgoing very familiar), they are very supportive of investments into the industry. leader • When told of the economic benefits of the aerospace industry ($31 billion in revenue, has Andrew contributed more than $25 billion to Canada’s Gross Domestic Product, provides jobs to Scheer. The 215,000 Canadians), almost all Canadians agree it is at least somewhat important that it stay Hill Times in Canada (91%), with almost half (46%) saying this is very important. photograph by Samantha • When hearing that Canada’s ranking in this industry has slipped from fifth to seventh place, a Wright Allen vast majority say it is important that Canada remains competitive (85%). Likewise, 85% also feel it is important that Canada invest in this industry, similar to other countries like Hong Kong, France, Germany and the USA. o More than one-third feel it is very important that Canada remain competitive (39%) and invest in this industry (36%). • Almost four-fifths (78%) of Canadians agree that Canada needs a comprehensive aerospace strategy to ensure the industries long-term future as well as to protect the more than 215,000 jobs and financial contributions. said pollster Greg Lyle of Innovative Re- Campaign Life Coalition has search in a phone interview with The Hill For over 80 years, governments of all political stripes have made Canada’s aerospace sector a Times. “Social conservatives can make a policy priority through strategic action and investments. They built Canada into a global aerospace signed up 30,000-40,000 huge difference.” leader with an impressive worldwide reputation that is now coming under threat. members to help Leslyn Mr. MacKay, a former cabinet minister If we fail to keep up with our competitor countries, our industry’s $25 billion annual GDP contribution in the cabinet, has posi- will be gutted and Canada will no longer be in a position to attract and keep highly-trained skilled Lewis and Derek Sloan, tioned himself as the progressive option in workers. This represents 215,000 highly skilled, well-paying jobs across the country that support the four-candidate leadership contest. He is more than 500 small businesses. the two social conservative the front-runner in this election, followed closely by Conservative MP Erin O’Toole Our question to the political leadership of the day, and indeed all candidates, according to (Durham, Ont.), a former cabinet minister parliamentarians, is this: Do we want to keep our aerospace industry and a former Air Force colonel, who is run- in this country or not? If the answer is yes, we need to face up to the Jack Fonseca, director of ning on the slogan of “True Blue Leader- political operations for the ship.” His campaign has made a concerted new reality and take action. effort to seek the support of social con- Canada must act now, as our competitors are, before we lose it all. The organization. servatives and to be their second or third choice, if not first. Toronto lawyer Leslyn commitment we made as a nation 80 years ago to be a global leader, Lewis and Conservative MP Derek Sloan is needed again. BY ABBAS RANA (Hastings-Lennox & Addington, Ont.) are running as social conservative candidates. Sincerely, A committed group of thousands of The party is using a preferential-ballot Jim Quick socially conservative voters will play a or ranked-ballot system for the leader- President and CEO Chair of Vision 2025 and Partner at McCarthy Tétrault critical role in deciding the Conservative ship election. That means all eligible AIAC Party’s leadership election if presumed party members could vote for all four Former Deputy Prime Minister of Canada and of Quebec front-runner Peter MacKay doesn’t win candidates, ranking them from one to (2003-2012) the contest on the first ballot, say political four, in order of preference. If none of 1 Global Aerospace in Post Covid-19 Scenario - Roland Berger, June 2020. insiders. the candidates wins 50 per cent-plus “If Peter MacKay doesn’t win on the one of the votes after the first ballot, first ballot, then that seems likely [social aiac.ca/vision2025 conservatives deciding the outcome],” Continued on page 18 6 MONDAY, JULY 20, 2020 | THE HILL TIMES News

to public sector spending,” said Sen. Dean. Former top bureaucrat , who was clerk of the Privy ‘Would not be wise to Council from 1999 until 2002, told The Hill Times that he agrees with Mr. Page that the next two to five years would be the wrong time to engage in austerity. pursue austerity’ before “The real problem was from 2015 to 2020, when we ran big deficits—in relative terms—when we should have been accumulat- ing surpluses so that we would have had flexibility to act now,” recovery, says Kevin Page said Mr. Cappe. “Until we’re well into recovery, in fact beyond recovery into some new equilib- on July 8, the Parliamentary wrote Mr. Page. “A post COVID-19 difficult for governments of any rium, it would inappropriate to National president Budget Office released a report federal government may decide political stripe not to put some- take action.” on July 16 that found that Canada that federal debt-to-GDP ratios thing in the window that shows “However, at some point, we of the Public Service can expect a 6.8 per cent decline around 50 per cent are too high, that in-house constraints are will have accumulated a signifi- in its GDP in 2020, and that the notwithstanding low interest underway,” said Sen. Dean. cant debt, which is going to prove Alliance of Canada projected deficit for 2020-21 will rates.” Higher debt creates insta- Sen. Dean also said that any to be, in a new, balanced, positive (PSAC) Chris Aylward be $343.2-billion. bility risks if interest rates rise,” government would want to go future, is going to be inappropri- “This is the ‘challenge of our he said. into an election with a clear fiscal ate, and is going to be difficult says the timing lifetime,’” according to the report, “[The] public service will learn plan to start to tackle the deficit. to manage,” said Mr. Cappe. “And but as “temporary investment about the effectiveness of tech- “I think it has to be a long- everyone else in the world is in ‘couldn’t be worse’ for measures come to an end and nology and working differently term plan,” said Sen. Dean. “I exactly the same position.” this government to GDP recovers over time, deficits during the COVID-19 lockdown,” think the important thing is are expected to retreat.” according to Mr. Page. “Oppor- having a rigorous, defensible Timing ‘couldn’t be start looking at cuts to worse’ to cut public public service jobs. service jobs, says PSAC national president National president of the BY MIKE LAPOINTE Public Service Alliance of Canada (PSAC) Chris Aylward said the lthough there is a projected timing “couldn’t be worse” for this Afederal deficit of just un- government to start looking at der $350-billion for 2020-21, cuts to public service jobs. Canada’s former parliamentary “Communities depend on budget officer Kevin Page said federal public service work- the government needs to think ers getting paid, to bolster their about spurring economic growth economy,” said Mr. Aylward. before thinking about austerity “Number one, for the economy, it measures to cut down on govern- would absolutely be terrible to cut ment debt. the public service jobs.” In an emailed statement to “Number two, the public ser- The Hill Times, Mr. Page said he vants have gone above and beyond did not think it would be wise providing services to Canadians, for the federal government to and to cut any service at all from pursue austerity policies until the federal public service, [you’re] the Canadian economy has fully hurting the most vulnerable in recovered. our community—the people who “Various economic forecasts depend on those services day in from domestic and international and day out, whether it’s veterans, institutions do not have the Cana- whether it’s seniors, whether it’s dian economy returning to fourth those on social benefit programs, quarter 2019 GDP levels until late that’s who you would eventually 2021 or 2022 assuming no vac- end up hurting,” said Mr. Aylward. cine is in place,” wrote Mr. Page. Senior economist with the Pro- “Austerity exercises are contrac- fessional Institute of the Public Ser- tionary from an macroeconomic vice of Canada (PIPSC) Ryan Camp- perspective. Over the next two bell told The Hill Times that “first and years, government macro policy foremost, austerity shouldn’t be on needs to be focused on economic the agenda right now.” growth.” “That thinking is counterpro- Mr. Page also wrote that it is ductive at the moment, and what possible the scope and depth of we need now is investment—and an austerity exercise could be cutting at a time when you need part of the next federal elec- investment is not good,” said Mr. tion, alluding to targets, spend- Campbell. “The focus right now ing controls, areas of focus for should be on the health crisis, spending reductions, and tax Former parliamentary budget officer Kevin Page says that 'while an austerity exercise could be a few years off, it on containing the virus, protect- increases. would be wise for the public service to develop possible options for future political consideration in a post COVID-19 ing people and making sure that “While an austerity exercise environment.' The Hill Times file photograph basic needs are met, repairing the could be a few years off it would damage—[and] then hopefully re- be wise for the public service Perhaps, the more the public tunities to work more efficiently and comprehensive fiscal plan building the economy better than to develop possible options for service can involve itself in the with a smaller work force will be going into the election. It will be it was before.” future political consideration post COVID-19 economic recov- examined.” important to start taking some Mr. Campbell said that he in a post COVID19 environ- ery project, by developing a sus- Senator Tony Dean (Ontario) steps before an election, particu- hopes what comes out of this ment—operational efficiencies; tainable, resilient and more equi- said in an interview with The Hill larly if it’s a year, or a year and situation is “more confidence in re-allocations to eliminate poor table economy, positive change in Times that he’s “been around this half out, and the content of that is investing in public service capac- performing programs, [and] the public service will be become block before” during his time as anybody’s guess.” ity” as opposed to contracting out. process and institutional reforms intrinsic, wrote Mr. Page, alluding a high-ranking provincial public “But I would say that going “Our public service employ- to strengthen transparency and to a more evidence-based, open, servant under ’s into an election, the government ees have really stepped up and accountability,” wrote Mr. Page. transparent, and digital appara- Progressive Conservative govern- will need to demonstrate and be showed their colours and done a “Austerity is difficult. It is hard tus. ment in Ontario, as well as with able to explain what it’s basic or really impressive job, and I think on the public service. Bad public “Could a post-COVID-19 the federal Liberals. general approach is to get back it warrants investing more in the policy hurts government re-elec- public service imprint be smaller, “It’s not unusual—in fact it’s to balance, and I would think that public service and not feeling the tion chances.” even if government transfers to be expected that in situations would have to contain some com- need to outsource those services,” Following Finance Minister (basic income, infrastructure, in which there are burgeoning mitment to spending across the said Mr. Campbell. Bill Morneau’s (, federal-provincial fiscal arrange- deficits and reduced revenues board, and a revenue-generating [email protected] Ont.) fiscal “snapshot,” unveiled ments) get relatively larger? Yes,” and we’re hitting a fiscal wall, it’s strategy, but also a commitment The Hill Times THE HILL TIMES | MONDAY, JULY 20, 2020 7 News Liberals might need new bill and ‘much more’ to tackle police reform: Goodale

Mr. Goodale suggested three and nurturing community roots a final report to the complainant, that the government would be ‘What we really need changes to Bill C-3 to beef up and relationships, team response the commissioner, the federal making “new investments” in the RCMP oversight: setting dead- capabilities in close partnership public safety minister, and the complaints commission. is some more official lines for the RCMP commissioner with other service providers and relevant provincial minister. Mr. Trudeau told reporters announcement to respond to reports and recom- first responders, bias-free opera- The CRCC also has the ability earlier this month that Mr. Blair mendations from the renamed tional techniques, and MUCH to start its own investigations would be looking into “modern- by somebody who complaints commission; creating more,” Mr. Goodale wrote in his if a case of questionable police izing policing structures and an appeal mechanism for cases statement to The Hill Times. conduct becomes public, but no updating standards regarding the actually holds power, in which the complaints commis- He also said it was important complaint is made. The CRCC has use of force,” over the summer. sion and the RCMP don’t agree to give the complaints commis- completed only a handful of its Mr. Blair told The which is the current on how to respond to a complaint; sion sufficient resources and own investigations over the last in June that the public complaints and creating panels of experts staff, and hand police officers several years. system for the RCMP must be public safety minister, from minority communities in “meaningful, timely consequences The CRCC received nearly “timely” and “transparent,” but has ,’ says former Canada, and involving them in when a finding of wrongdoing is 3,000 public complaints in 2018-19; not committed to specific reforms the review of complaints from confirmed.” complaints about excessive use of to the complaints commission be- police watchdog Ian members of that minority group. yond those already contained in “With the legislation before Bill C-3. He has also promised to Scott. the House, it might be a good idea served bring forward legislation to better to add some additional things to as Canada’s public support First Nations policing. it other than the original intent safety minister under Setting a deadline for the BY PETER MAZEREEUW to cover also the CBSA,” Mr. Goo- Prime Minister Justin RCMP commissioner to respond dale told the CBC. Trudeau between to reports from the complaints he Liberal government may Mr. Goodale served as the 2015 and 2019. The commission, and establishing an Tneed to introduce new legisla- Public Safety Minister in Justin government should give appeal mechanism for disagree- tion to shore up the powers of the Trudeau’s Liberal government the civilian oversight ments between the complains RCMP’s civilian oversight body, during the forty-second Parlia- agency for the RCMP commission and the RCMP would and take many more steps to ment, from 2015 to 2019. He was more power and be improvements, but “very small address calls for police reform in defeated in last fall’s election. resources, as just one steps,” said Alok Mukherjee, who Canada, says former Liberal pub- Mr. Goodale is currently working of several steps needed served as the chair of the Toronto lic safety minister Ralph Goodale. for the government as a “special to reform policing in Police Services Board—another “It might be more efficient in adviser” on the investigation into Canada, he says. The civilian watchdog agency—be- terms of parliamentary rules to Iran’s attack on Ukraine Interna- Hill Times photograph by tween 2005 and 2015. introduce a new bill, instead of tional Airlines flight 752 in Janu- Andrew Meade “I don’t know exactly what trying to amend C-3,” said Mr. ary, which killed 63 Canadians. having these rotating panels, what Goodale, referring to a bill cur- NDP MP Jack Harris (St. value they would add. It’s not clear rently before the House of Com- John’s East, N.L.), his party’s to me,” said Mr. Mukherjee, who mons—nearly identical to one public safety critic, told The also previously served on the On- he introduced during his time as Hill Times he isn’t sure that the tario Human Rights Commission. minister in the last Parliament— amendments proposed by Mr. The three reforms that Mr. force were among the most com- Mr. Mukherjee ran unsuccess- that would change the name and Goodale would be allowed under Goodale first proposed to the mon. The RCMP determined that fully as an NDP candidate in To- responsibilities of the Civilian House of Commons rules, which CBC, on their own, wouldn’t do only 1.6 per cent of the allegations ronto-St. Paul’s, Ont. in the 2019 Review and Complaints Commis- do not allow amendments that enough to rein in police miscon- of excessive use of force made federal election. He was defeated sion for the RCMP. go beyond the original scope or duct in Canada, say two former against its officers through the by Crown-Indigenous Relations “It needs to be remembered intent of the bill. police watchdogs, who called on complaints process over the last Minister . that this draft legislation (like its Creating an appeal mechanism the government to impose more three years were “substantiated.” Mr. Mukherjee said that creat- predecessor in the last Parlia- through an amendment would drastic changes to the public com- Another 22 per cent were resolved ing community expert panels, an ment) was designed to resolve likely not be allowed, he said. plaint process for the RCMP. informally, 63 per cent were found appeal mechanism, and deadlines an issue with the Canada Border “In my experience in Parlia- “They should just take the to be “not substantiated,” 10 per for the RCMP commissioner, on Services Agency, not the RCMP,” ment is that you wouldn’t be whole section on dealing with cent were withdrawn by the com- its own, would not be enough to Mr. Goodale said in an emailed able to put a whole new process public complaints and start all plainant, and six per cent were resolve problems with police ac- statement in response to ques- in there that wouldn’t be in the over again,” said Ian Scott, the terminated by the RCMP. countability in Canada. He said tions from the The Hill Times. original bill,” he said. former director of Ontario’s Spe- The complaints commission the government should either “CBSA does not currently He said Mr. Goodale’s sug- cial Investigations Unit, the civil- should be given the powers and make the complaints commission have a review agency for com- gestions are worth considering, ian agency that investigates when resources to conduct more of its more accessible to Canadians, plaints about officer conduct. particularly giving the RCMP police are involved in deaths and own investigations into public many of whom don’t know it ex- C-3 would effectively correct commissioner a deadline to serious injuries to civilians. complaints, said Mr. Scott. ists, and give it more powers to that problem by expanding (and respond to reports from the Mr. Scott said the changes As it stands, the RCMP con- investigate complaints and com- renaming) the review agency for complaints commission. The NDP proposed by Mr. Goodale would trols the investigation and the pel documents from the RCMP, or the RCMP to also cover CBSA. will likely push for more changes not meaningfully improve police disciplinary process connected to scrap the RCMP’s contract polic- It’s still very important to do that, to the powers of the complaints oversight in Canada, and called the vast majority of public com- ing operation altogether. but—whether by amending C-3 commission when the bill is sent the complaints commission a plaints that aren’t picked up by a The RCMP currently fulfills or introducing a separate bill—it to committee. “pretty toothless organization.” provincial police oversight body two different mandates: policing would also be useful to add to the “It really should be re-engi- “Even if all of them are imple- or result in criminal charges. The at the national level, including package the additional innova- neered to conform to recommen- mented, it’s really not going to make CRCC can only make recommen- responsibilities for organized tions that I suggested in response dations that the committee might any difference. It’s frankly a very dations, which the RCMP is not crime and national security, and to the CBC’s questions.” put forward,” he said. thin veneer on the issues,” he said. required to act on. contract policing in rural areas Mr. Goodale proposed three In response to questions from The CRCC does not investi- “It needs a system where the and communities across the reforms to Bill C-3 in an interview The Hill Times, Mr. Goodale said gate most of the complaints made consequences are not merely country, in jurisdictions that don’t with the CBC published July 12. that he had not been asked by the to it by members of the public; interim reports that bounce back have their own police forces. On- Bill C-3, as currently written, government to publicly propose instead, it refers them to the and forth between two govern- tario and Quebec have provincial would change the name of the those reforms to Bill C-3. He said RCMP, which conducts its own in- ment offices, with the ultimate police forces, and most large mu- body that manages public com- his suggestions were not meant vestigations, the results of which decision maker having the ability nicipalities in Canada have their plaints about the RCMP from the to be a “panacea” for the problems are sent to the complainants. If to ignore it in any event,” said Mr. own police forces. Through con- Civilian Review and Complaints with policing in Canada. a complainant is not satisfied Scott. tract policing, the RCMP covers Commission (CRCC) to the “The challenge of overall po- with the outcome of the RCMP’s “What we really need is some much of the rest of the country. Public Complaints and Review lice ‘reform’ is a much, much big- investigation, the CRCC can look more official announcement by “It’s a choice: either the gov- Commission. It would make that ger question with many dimen- over the documents produced by somebody who actually holds ernment gets out of the contract body responsible for managing sions—e.g., inclusive recruitment the RCMP’s investigation into the power, which is the current public policing, which pays for a huge complaints about the Canada and promotion reflecting diver- complaint, and, if it deems the safety minister, Bill Blair,” he said. portion of the RCMP’s budget, or Border Services Agency as well sity, training which incorporates RCMP’s response to be unsatis- Mr. Blair’s office did not answer it agrees to put in place solid ac- as the RCMP. The bill would fulfill (among other things) Indigenous factory, the CRCC can issue an a series of emailed questions from countability mechanisms for that a longstanding Liberal promise to expertise like that available interim report recommending a The Hill Times about Bill C-3, po- part of the RCMP’s mandate,” said impose independent oversight on at First Nations University of change of approach to the RCMP lice reform, or Mr. Goodale’s com- Mr. Mukherjee. the CBSA, but would not change Canada and the University of Re- commissioner. Once the commis- ments to the CBC. Press secretary [email protected] the oversight of the RCMP. gina, the importance of building sioner responds, the CRCC sends Mary-Liz Power said in a statement The Hill Times 8 MONDAY, JULY 20, 2020 | THE HILL TIMES

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Editorial Letters to the Editor Politicians should try harder to New Brunswick expects to unite Canadians, not divide them extract plutonium without any n Feb. 21, 2019, Michael Wernick, then Other prime ministers have faced dis- Othe PCO clerk and the top federal bu- turbing threats while in office. parliamentary debate or cabinet reaucrat in the country told members of the These events cannot be easily linked or House Justice Committee studying the SNC- traced to any one group, but it’s clear Can- Lavalin controversy that he feared for our ada has become more polarized in the last scrutiny: Edwards, O’Donnell country. He said he was afraid of the rise of five or six years and it is up to our political political violence in Canada and said he was leaders to unite people, not divide them. e: “Nuclear power a safely regulated refused to grant a licence for any major worried about the next election campaign. As Tim Powers, a former adviser to solution,” (The Hill Times, letters to facility, as revealed in a letter linked “I worry about the rising tides of incite- Conservative leaders and cabinet minis- R the editor, July 15), Colleen d’Entremont, here: www.ccnr.org/CNSC_licence_refus- ments to violence, when people use terms ters, said, “The disdain game has reached president of Atlantic Clean Energy Alli- als_2017.pdf). like treason and traitor in open discourse. another level and it’s getting dangerous.” ance, has misread and misquoted us. We Regarding safeguards, then-prime Those are the words that lead to assassina- Pollster Frank Graves says he’s seen an stand by what we wrote: irradiated fuel minister Pierre Elliott Trudeau, following tion. I’m worried that somebody is going “alarming” development over the last 10 from the new nuclear reactors proposed the lead of then-U.S. president Jimmy to be shot in this country this year, during years of “a very intense polarization into for New Brunswick will be far more Carter, prohibited plutonium extrac- the federal campaign,” said Mr. Wernick. this new, ordered, authoritarian camp.” radioactive, kilogram for kilogram, than tion from used nuclear fuel in Canada. His comments were unusual and Terrorism expert Jessica Davis told The the used fuel from the Lepreau CANDU Now New Brunswick seems to expect to dramatic and appeared out of place in the Hill Times last week that she’s concerned reactor. The waste will be smaller in vol- extract plutonium without any parlia- middle of a critical meeting looking into about the normalization of hateful language ume, but much more radioactive per unit mentary debate or cabinet scrutiny of political interference at the highest levels online and about extreme-right threats, along volume. the global proliferation implications of of government. But he said it for a reason with what she called the Trudeau effect. Canada’s nuclear regulator is indeed such a move. and his words resonated. Today, Mr. Wer- “He really does seem to inspire a highly praised by those in the industries Dr. Gordon Edwards, Canadian Coali- nick’s comments are particularly poignant. particular level of animosity, mostly in the it regulates, but sharply criticized by most tion for Nuclear Responsibility, Montreal On July 2, an armed man tried to crash West but also in other parts of the country intervenors who pay the bills and take Dr. Susan O’Donnell, University of through the gates of where as well,” she said. “It’s really quite extreme.” the risks. CNSC freely admits it has never New Brunswick, Fredericton Prime Minister Justin Trudeau and his fam- Conservative strategist Yaroslav Baran ily and the Governor General live. Corey said he’s also seen a deterioration over the Hurren, a reserv- last 10 years in Canada’s political messag- ist, faces weapons charges and uttering ing and that it’s become less constructive, a threat against Mr. Trudeau. On July 1, more polarizing, more vitriolic, and more People’s Party Leader at- intolerant. The biggest culprits, he said, are tended a far-right rally on the Hill where at the Liberals and Conservatives. war in Afghanistan least one protester had a sign showing the “If left unchecked, it could have a prime minister standing in the gallows. socially disintegrating effect and propel On July 13, a Quebec man, André Audet, us in the direction of what we see south of against West: how it ends? was charged by the RCMP’s national security the border,” Mr. Baran. team for making threats against Muslims, Both the Liberals and the Conserva- urrently, the Taliban are in discus- war and wages a jihad war (which will and for calling for the death of Mr. Trudeau. tives should stop the “us against them” Csion with Western governments in not be accepted). At a campaign rally before the last and the “take back Canada” messaging. Afghanistan for the withdrawal of all Meanwhile, tensions are rising after a election, Mr. Trudeau wore a bulletproof All politicians should try harder to be international forces and is in talks with family member of Afghanistan President vest because the RCMP had reportedly more civil and to show Canadian voters the Afghanistan government, the U.S., Ashraf Ghani was shot dead in his own received a credible threat that a man was that they’re working together, especially Britain, and after an agree- home. Hundreds and thousands of military outside the event with a gun. in these extremely challenging times. ment was signed in February of this personnel have also been killed in Af- year. ghanistan while serving the country since There is a lot at stake in Afghani- the American operation began in 2001. stan, including women rights, access to According to the World Bank, Afghani- education, business activities and a basic stan’s GDP for 2019 was around $19-bil- income. We already know that women lion (highest of anytime) an increase from and children will be denied education, Taliban’s opium economy. the GDP of Afghanistan will drop, and Opposition leaders in Pakistan are also achieving the ’ goals will against the odds of peace in Afghanistan be at stake, which is something that and are saluting the continuous war due Canada and other countries will regret. to geopolitical tensions between Pakistan Reports by human rights organiza- and India. Several Taliban safe havens are tions, such as Amnesty International, say in Pakistan, including the Quetta group, the Taliban banned Afghan women and something that the current vice-president girls from working and learning in the of Afghanistan, Amrullah Saleh, has re- country when the regime was in power. peatedly warned governments about. A full report by Amnesty can be viewed So now after two decades of never- at https://www.amnesty.org.uk/issues/ ending war in Afghanistan, why is Can- womens-rights-afghanistan. ada not doing anything on the conflict The ending of the war in Afghanistan resolution part? Just recently, Canada lost shines a light on what the future can look its vote to win a seat on the UN Security like for ordinary Afghan people. The war Council, after spending a great amount of has two ways it can be ended: one way energy by Prime Minister Justin Trudeau. the war will end is that if Taliban and Af- If the war in Afghanistan ends as por- ghan government work together (which trayed, we will all lose. will be in favour of all the people), and Meladul Ahmadzai the second way is the Taliban keeps the Ottawa, Ont.

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Bloc Québécois Blanchet denies Leader Yves- François Blanchet, pictured in anonymous sexual Hull on Aug. 8, 2019, denied sexual misconduct misconduct allegations last week posted on social allegations, but media alleging an incident from 1999. The Hill Times damage is done photograph by Cynthia Münster TTAWA—Bloc Québécois Bloc Québécois OLeader Yves-François Blan- chet is the latest victim of social Leader Yves- media internet justice. François Blanchet Twenty-one-year-old anony- gentlemen” to challenge those she But all the old rules have gone justice and simply besmirches the mous allegations surfaced last describes as their “deviant broth- out the window and the tradition- reputation of the accused, who has vigorously denied week against Blanchet, accusing ers” who “stain your reputation al media is forced to chase the tail has little power over anonymous him of “sexual misconduct” in and put you into their boat of s–t”. of the social media dog. allegations. the allegations and 1999 in a biker bar bathroom in She finished by asking every- Brais posted her Instagram Unfortunately, like it or not, Montreal, at an after-party for a one to let her know what they comments before the allegations some of the dirt is going to stick. challenged his accuser rock group he managed. think. against Blanchet had surfaced but And that is why direct accusa- Blanchet has vigorously The whole of Quebec is weigh- her call to Quebecers to let her tions of this nature need to be to go to the police so denied the allegations and chal- ing in on the debate. know what they think will not go raised in a court of law, not in a charges can be tested lenged his accuser to go to the With Blanchet facing an anon- unheard. social media setting. police so charges can be tested in ymous accuser, more unproven The high-level shout-out to As long as anonymous in a court of law. a court of law. allegations will likely follow. speak up could become a slip- complaints are given credibility But the court of public opinion What is truly bizarre is that pery slope of more social media by coverage in the mainstream has already weighed in on Twitter mainstream media is stoking the justice. media, we do a disservice to those and in the mainstream media flames with its own sensational Allegations should always be who should face their accusers in with a vicious tone that is the coverage. taken seriously, but Blanchet is a court of law. flavour of the month. In the case of the Montreal right. The best place to deal with The justice system used to be Blanchet’s accuser posted her Gazette, the anonymous ac- these allegations is by filing a tipped against complainants who claim on a website set up to give cuser was interviewed and said complaint with the police. alleged sexual misconduct, as- victims a voice. The allegation she thought her attacker was In the current climate, report- sault, and improprieties. topped a roller-coaster week of bald and that his last name was ed allegations have to be taken Now it appears the pendulum accusations against Quebec enter- François. Before the arrival of seriously. But it will also be very has swung the opposite way. You tainers and media elites. social media accusations, news- hard to prove a 21-year-old claim are guilty until proven innocent. Sheila Copps Even the premier’s wife, papers would never have printed without any witnesses. Sheila Copps is a former Jean Isabelle Brais, got into the act, the allegations, unless they were But simply throwing out the Chrétien-era cabinet minister and Copps’ Corner posting on Instagram in French, corroborated by another credible accusation in the social media a former deputy prime minister. exhorting “knights, princes and witness. world does nothing to secure The Hill Times

I’m talking about its “nepotism” angle, specifically how Trudeau Weaponizing the WE scandal seemingly wanted to use tax dol- lars to lavishly fund an organiza- AKVILLE, ONT.—Prime ernment had doled out a $912 tion that’s known to pay lucrative How do the OMinister Justin Trudeau sure million, sole-sourced government fees to his family members. is generous. contract, to the WE Charity. Make no mistake, this par- Conservatives and After all, thanks to the inept Such a massive expenditure ticular transgression could sting way he triggered the “WE Charity” looked fishy from the start, since the Liberals since voters, who New Democrats take fiasco, Trudeau charitably be- the WE Charity had close ties to might otherwise excuse more stowed to his political opponents Prime Minister Trudeau, e.g., his typical corruption, will often get the ‘We Charity’ a nice little gift. wife, Sophie, was a high-ranking outraged if they believe politi- controversy, with Yet, for this gift of a scandal to volunteer for the group. cians are rewarding their cronies actually have any lasting value in Then things got even fishier Prime Minister Justin Trudeau, pictured or relatives at the expense of all its facets and all terms of helping the Conservatives when it was discovered that this July 8, 2020, on the Hill. For the WE taxpayers. and New Democrats chip away at very same organization had paid Charity gift of a scandal to actually have This is why, for instance, the its variables and Trudeau’s lead in the polls, it still Trudeau’s mother and his brother any lasting value in terms of helping the “adscam” scandal bit the Liberals needs to be weaponized. huge fees for speaking at its Conservatives and New Democrats chip so deeply; it was all about politi- forge it into a simple In other words, Trudeau’s foes events between 2016 and 2020. away at Mr. Trudeau’s lead in the polls, cians using tax dollars to enrich narrative that fits into have to take the “WE Charity” All in all, the optics were pret- it still needs to be weaponized, writes their corporate pals. scandal and craft its essence into ty bad for the Liberals, which is Gerry Nicholls. The Hill Times photograph So, if I were a political strate- a 30-second TV attack a short, concise political message why the WE charity contract was by Andrew Meade gist working for the Opposition that will resonate with voters on ultimately cancelled and Trudeau that’s the point I’d hammer home. ad? an emotional level. eventually apologized. But keep in mind, the default po- My TV ad would say some- So how do they do that? How But by then it was too late, the sition for many voters when they’re thing like, “While you’re barely do they take the “We Charity” scandal was already cooking. contemplating government scandals making ends meet, Justin Trudeau controversy, with all its facets and At any rate, what matters is “all politicians are crooks,” so as wanted to pay out millions of all its variables and forge it into from a tactical point of view are long as they figure the prime minis- your tax dollars to a pro-Liberal a simple narrative that fits into a the scandal’s “raw materials,” ter is doing a good job on the major organization, that would use the 30-second TV attack ad? i.e. the stuff that can be used to issues — managing the economy, money to make his rich family Well, before answering those effectively damage Trudeau’s handling COVID-19 – they likely even richer. That’s wrong.” questions, let’s go over the scandal’s brand; in this case: conflict of won’t be swayed by arguments that Such a message, if repeated basics to see what the Conserva- interest, ethical lapses, poor he’s unethical or corrupt. long enough, would help ensure tives and NDP have to work with. judgement and waste of tax dol- However, that said, the WE that Trudeau’s generous gift keeps The details of the case, of lars. Charity scandal does offer up one on giving. Gerry Nicholls course, are pretty straightforward. Now, you might think with all juicy little sin, that, if properly Gerry Nicholls is a communi- It all started when news this ammunition, it’d be pretty exploited, could potentially draw cations consultant. Post-Partisan Pundit emerged that the Liberal gov- easy to come up with an attack. Liberal blood. The Hill Times 10 MONDAY, JULY 20, 2020 | THE HILL TIMES Opinion

Prime Minister Scandals are often driven by hot Justin Trudeau, blood rather than hard fact. pictured on And there is a defence for June 18, 2020, the government to make in this speaking to matter. Like a lot of other things reporters from happening in the current pan- his home at demic, the normal rules of proce- Rideau Cottage dure have gone out the window. in Ottawa. For Bureaucrats have already said the foreseeable that the key to the WE deal was future, the the need for speed. After investi- political gators and parliamentarians do opposition their deep dive, it is not incon- and the ethics ceivable that there is a measure commissioner of truth to that. will conduct And then there is the other a painstaking side to the Captain Ron Factor autopsy on that might help the government; this now dead distaste for the most likely alter- $900-million native to the Liberals, the Conser- sole-sourced vative Party of Canada. program. That No one cares more about eth- is bad news for ics than a politician out of power. the PM, writes That interest usually wanes when Michael Harris. they become the government. The Hill Times It doesn’t take much time to photograph by adumbrate a host of reasons why Andrew Meade voters should be slow to hoist Trudeau over the side in favour of embracing the Conservatives. The In-and-Out scandal, constant cheating in both elec- tions and leadership conventions; phoney Fair Elections legislation designed to suppress rather than expand voting; Dean del Mastro, a former cabinet minister and parliamentary secretary to Ste- phen Harper, sent to the slammer for cheating on election expenses; the enduring stench of Robocalls; and the former government’s constant lies about the true cost Trudeau better hope of acquiring the F-35 Stealth Fighter Jet. As things now stand, the Conservatives have accused their sitting leader of using his OLO budget for personal use, and that his base is pissed the two front-runners to replace have called each other liars and thieves. One of them even called in the Mounties. Politics is littered with exam- ples of tossing out a government that has “pissed off” the elector- off, but still with him ate, only to get someone who fills them with buyer’s remorse. the Ad Sponsorship scandal than served reviews based on its han- was punished Instead of favourable and deserved reviews a sound government program. dling of the COVID-19 pandemic, for a scandal not of his making, It is the second stage of igno- the government will be dragged and Canadians elected Stephen based on its handling of the COVID-19 rance to shower WE with public before two parliamentary com- Harper in his place. pandemic, the government will be dragged money when family members of mittees, and subjected to months Voters were mad at Bill Clin- both the PM and the finance min- of scrutiny from Ethics Commis- ton, so they tossed the Democrats before two parliamentary committees, and ister had financial connections to sioner Mario Dion—he who never and got George W. Bush. the same charity. wants to be called a lapdog. The grand daddy of throwing subjected to months of scrutiny from Ethics And to top it all off, as con- The public will find out if WE out the baby with the political firmed by Rachel Wernick, senior was secretly favoured behind the bath water? Americans were tired Commissioner Mario Dion—he who never assistant deputy minister at scenes by the Liberals. of the Clinton dynasty, so they wants to be called a lapdog. Employment and Social Develop- It will find out the name of the hoisted Donald Trump into the ment Canada, the Trudeau gov- Finance official who approached driver’s seat. ernment outsourced the program Wernick about the WE Charity. And now Justin Trudeau has with him. That’s a lot of money to WE without a competitive It will learn whether any of- put himself in peril, but is the and they should have known that bidding process. What the heck is ficials in the PMO had a hand in answer really Salmon Camp the sniffers were not far away.” the public service for? steering this plum as big as the Peter MacKay, or a guy who has Trudeau supporter, Captain Ron, The deal, whether sleazy or Ritz into the hands of the WE gone from moderate progressive from Moncton New Brunswick. just dunderheaded, has since col- Charity. to bible-thumper to capture his I found that direct message lapsed like a poorly constructed And it will learn that there party’s social conservative base? when I opened my Twitter feed lean-to in the heavy winds of is nothing quite as unrelenting Does anyone know what Erin a few days ago. Justin Trudeau public scrutiny. Both the PM and or opportunistic as Opposition O’Toole really stands for? better hope that the Captain Ron his finance minister have also politicians who smell blood in the That said, the PM can’t step in Factor permeates his base: pissed apologized for their “mistake.” water—a prime minister’s blood. any more cow flops. If he does, Michael Harris off, but still with him. It doesn’t sound like a mistake. It must be said loud and clear his actions will be seen in the context of a disturbing pattern of Harris If we were talking about ten- It sounds more like a decision that no one should pre-judge Dion’s nis, what the top Liberal leader- that they just can’t justify in the investigation before it’s finished, let poor judgment—the billionaire’s ship has done in the WE Charity light of day. “When cornered, alone before it’s even begun. island, the SNC-Lavalin affair, ALIFAX—“As a result of not fiasco would be called an un- apologize,” is getting to be this Remember the “billion dollar and now this. Hwanting the Cons rule again, forced error. Who on earth would government’s motto. boondoggle” in HRDC that cost For now, the PM’s best hope is I’m still supporting Justin. WTF give nearly one billion taxpayer So for the foreseeable future, former Chrétien minister Jane the Captain Ron Factor. is he thinking with this decision? dollars to a “charity” to dole out— the political opposition and the Stewart her political career? A But under desperate enough Does he not listen to his advisers? no matter how noble the cause? ethics commissioner will conduct preliminary audit suggested that conditions, even captains have Damn, he pisses me off. He was Who would pay them up to a painstaking autopsy on this millions of dollars in departmen- been known to jump ship. doing well at the polls and he had $43-million to administer the now dead program. tal funds had gone missing. Sub- Michael Harris is an award- to do this. I know he wasn’t alone student volunteer program? That That is bad news for the PM. sequent audits whittled that num- winning author and columnist. on it as Morneau is right there sounds more like something out of Instead of favourable and de- ber down to a modest $64,000. The Hill Times THE HILL TIMES | MONDAY, JULY 20, 2020 11 Global A warning from Poland

Andrzej So what relevance Duda is practically a could Polish Polish clone of Donald politics have for the Trump, who forthcoming election will also be seeking in the United States? re-election less than Quite a lot, actually, four months from now— starting with the very and Duda squeaked similar ways in which out a victory. the two countries are Photograph courtesy of polarized politically. Commons Wikipedia

Gwynne Dyer Global Affairs

ONDON, U.K.—Few people Loutside of Poland care about the outcome of the July 12 presidential election there, but maybe they should. Andrzej Duda is practically a Polish clone of Donald Trump—who will also be seeking re-election less than four months from now—and Duda squeaked out a victory. Duda only got 51.2 per cent of the vote against 48.8 per cent for his liberal opponent, but Trump doesn’t even need that many votes. The Poles vote for their president directly, but gerryman- dered electoral districts and the ‘electoral college’ system in the Quite a lot, actually, starting with Muslim immigrants threatening media—and, of course, to suggest doesn’t make much difference to United States let Trump win last the very similar ways in which Polish national identity (although that they are really serving “Jew- the average urban middle-class time with only 46.1 per cent of the two countries are polarized no sane Muslim would ever ish interests.” Polish family, but it has trans- the popular vote. He could do it politically. choose to move to Poland). But It’s not pretty, but Trump formed the lives of millions of again. The Law and Justice Party the best targets in the culture recognizes a kindred spirit in families who live in the small It’s not a perfect compari- (PiS), in power since 2015, draws wars are people who actually live Duda, whom he has met 11 times towns and the countryside. son, of course. Duda is more its support from exactly the same in the country, and since Poland since 2017, including an invitation The PiS ‘base’ is also invested intelligent than Trump, and the social groups as Trump’s ‘base’: has no minorities of different to the White House last month in the culture wars, but there’s COVID-19 death toll is only 40 older, small-town or rural, lower- colours, that mainly means gays to give the Polish president a little doubt that this subsidy, per million people in Poland, middle, or working class, poorly and Jews. last-minute electoral boost. Duda running around $3,000 a year for compared to 420 per million in educated, and significantly more Duda made homophobic attacks the media, his party is the average family, gave Duda a the United States. Moreover, the male than female. Also more rhetoric the centrepiece of his re- busily packing the judiciary with vital extra push in the election. If Law and Justice Party he is linked religious (which in Poland usu- election campaign, promising to reliable conservative judges—and Trump promised a thinly dis- to is generally seen as competent ally means a conservative brand “defend children from LGBT ide- he won re-election. It’s enough to guised ‘basic income’ like that for and honest. of Catholicism) and much more ology” and comparing the LGBT give The Donald hope. the United States, he could prob- The history is different, too. nationalist. rights agenda to communism. He But maybe not enough hope, ably win too. Just as the United States was Duda doesn’t use the slogan promised a new constitutional because there is one big practical He wouldn’t have any seri- winning its independence from ‘Make Poland Great Again,’ amendment to ban same-sex difference. However much Trump ous ideological objection to that, the British empire in the late 18th because it’s three centuries since adoption, which he described as may claim to love the poor and because he actually doesn’t have century, Poland was carved up by Poland was a great power in the “enslavement” of children. “the poorly educated,” he hasn’t any coherent ideology. However, its neighbours and vanished from Europe. He doesn’t share Trump’s Since the government has done much to help them, whereas the Republican Party’s loyalty the map for more than 100 years. deference to Russian leader Vladi- already turned the once impartial the PiS puts its money where its to its traditional conservative Twenty years after, it regained mir Putin, because Russia rivals state-owned media into the PiS’s mouth is. beliefs, though heavily eroded, is its independence in 1918 it was Germany as the great historic en- propaganda arm, it now concen- Trump has signed a cheque for probably still strong enough to conquered by Hitler’s legions, and emy in Polish nationalist thought. trates its fire on the private me- $1,200 for each American once make that impossible. then it fell under Soviet Commu- But in terms of targeting minori- dia, much of it owned by U.S. and during the pandemic, and wants Gwynne Dyer’s new book is nist rule until 1989. ties, the PiS and Duda actually German companies, which still to sign one more if Congress ‘Growing Pains: The Future of De- So what relevance could Polish outdo Trump. try to offer independent analy- approves. The PiS gives every mocracy (and Work)’. This column politics have for the forthcom- The PiS makes a great song- sis. Duda’s line was therefore Pole $125 a month for each child was released on July 15. ing election in the United States? and-dance about hordes of to attack the evil foreign-owned every month, pandemic or not. It The Hill Times 12 MONDAY, JULY 20, 2020 | THE HILL TIMES Opinion A rare insight into Canada’s most secretive spy agency

(SLT) Building, and not at the was when I was there (I can only All in all, CSE’s report ultramodern new CSE HQ right imagine how sexier it is now). next to the CSIS HQ (where I To me, the most interesting is a very welcome also “stomped” from 2001-2015). part is the third one (Canada’s peek behind the Trust me, the new building is a security, prosperity, and competi- wonder of the 21st century when tiveness). It is here that we gain a espionage curtain. compared to the freezing cold in tiny window into what CSE does winters and stultifyingly hot in from day to day. The first part summers at SLT. talks a little of the new Cyber The report is short and light Centre, described as “deliver(ing) on details but this should not sur- world-class dynamic defence of prise anyone. It is an intelligence Canadian government networks.” agency, after all, and we all know It goes on to say that it foils a bil- that our spies are circumspect lion “malicious actors” who try to with what they say and what they penetrate don’t say. These organizations are systems every day. Wow, that’s in the business of keeping secrets, a lot and sure wasn’t the reality not splashing them all over the when I worked there. CSE chief Shelly Bruce, pictured April 8, 2019, at the National Press internet. The CSE is also liaising with Theatre in Ottawa at a press conference to discuss cyber threats to Canada's Phil Gurski This first-ever “public report” is private industry to keep compa- democratic process. The Hill Times photograph by Andrew Meade National Security divided into six sections: a mes- nies apprised of what the spies sage from the chief (Shelly Bruce, have learned on cyber threat. I Finally, there is the section All in all, then, a very wel- with whom I worked way back in always believed that expanding on foreign intelligence, where I come peek behind the espionage TTAWA—I never thought I’d the mid-1980s; she was not chief the remit of information sharing laboured for 17 years. CSE states curtain. While, in large part, pro- Osee this day. My old stomping then); setting CSE’s strategic out- was the way to go, but there were that it “provided foreign intel- tecting what they do and, more grounds, the Communications look; Canada’s security, prosper- always obstacles in the road (se- ligence reports to more than importantly, how they do it, CSE Security Establishment, also ity and competitiveness; engaging crecy, i.e., sources and methods), 2,100 clients in more than 25 has given us a taste of why we known as Canada’s “electronic Canadians; our people: a culture so this too is a good thing. And departments and agencies within have them and why we spend a spy agency,” has just put out its of community; and CSE by the one more: CSE worked alongside the Government of Canada in big chunk of change on it. This is very first public report. Let the numbers. CSIS, the RCMP, and Global Af- response to a range of priorities a good start: more please. trumpets sound and the banners In all honesty, a lot of this is fairs Canada (GAC) to keep an eye related to international affairs, Phil Gurski is the director of fly. typical Government of Canada on foreign threats during the 2019 defence, and security.” My bias the Security, Economics and Tech- Okay, technically it is not my dry, boring pablum, unlike the election. Given that we know cer- aside, this was indeed a very fas- nology (SET) programme at the old stomping grounds as I was actual work that CSE does on tain nations are engaged in these cinating part of the organization University of Ottawa’s Profession- there from 1983 to 2001, and that our behalf. Or at least I assume activities, it is important for these to work in. I am sure it is of equal al Development Institute (PDI). was at the Sir Leonard Tilley that the work is exciting as it sure agencies to stand on guard for us. fascination today. The Hill Times

conservative. While the left tries to depict the right as intolerant and unloving, Lewis shatters that History could be in the making, narrative by embodying the rich values Conservatives hold dear. Values that include individual rights and freedoms—particularly and Canadians should pay attention freedom of speech, expression, and religion—personal and fiscal responsibility, limited govern- Based on the numbers that have presented In a ment, love for your neighbour, cautious but and care for the vulnerable. themselves so far and based on anecdotal confident Based on the numbers that have manner, presented themselves so far and evidence of voter-identification figures coming Leslyn based on anecdotal evidence of vot- Lewis has er-identification figures coming from from inside each of the four campaigns, the made her inside each of the four campaigns, way to close the long-shot candidate of four long-shot candidate of four months ago has the helm months ago has become anything become anything from a long-shot today. and taking but a long-shot today. The odds of over the her winning the leadership on Aug. Conservative 21 are growing significantly. holds a master’s in environmental Party’s To add to the suspense, our sciences and a PhD in interna- leadership. current prime minister is under his tional law. She’s a Black woman Photograph third ethics controversy—one that’s and she’s intelligent, articulate, courtesy of looking increasingly problematic and kind. Commons for him—and the chances of an By all accounts, she’s an Wikipedia election this fall are rising dramati- underdog candidate. As a new- cally. If that were to happen, and comer to politics with very little assuming that Trudeau would re- name recognition, most Con- main on as leader and Lewis would servatives thought her chances ing waves, and hers is the fastest arrows at each other and play lead the Conservatives, Lewis Gerrit Van Dorland of meeting the high entrance growing campaign in the history classic political games, they’ve would have a clear advantage. Opinion thresholds were slim. She sur- of Conservative Party leadership paved the way for her positive, And so, Canadians would do passed the fundraising thresh- campaigns. constructive, and no-nonsense well to pay attention, as we may old with more than $100,000 to A combination of COVID-19 approach to politics to shine well see a Black, female prime TTAWA—The average Cana- spare. and political tensions at home through and resonate with the minister leading our country by Odian might not be aware, but Fast forward to today, her set the stage for Lewis’ highly base. She has a brilliant ability to the close of 2020. Leslyn Lewis has a good chance campaign has cracked $1-million successful campaign. In a world speak to the full spectrum of what Gerrit Van Dorland is execu- of winning the Conservative in fundraising, and of the four of fear, confusion, frustration, and the party believes and is being tive assistant to Conservative MP Party’s leadership next month. candidates running, she’s gained hate, her voice of reason, com- increasingly noted as the unity on , Born to immigrant parents the highest number of unique passion, and common sense is candidate who can tie the vari- and holds a BA in history from who left Jamaica in pursuit of donors in the second quarter, as striking a chord deep within the ous party factions together and Western University. This op-ed freedom, peace, and hope for a well as the highest number of hearts of grassroots conservatives remind them what they stand for. was written independently of his better future, Lewis is a mother of donations made. She continues to across Canada. Unlike many Conservatives, work for Mr. Patzer, and all opin- two, a successful Bay Street litiga- hold the highest level of engage- And while the “perceived” Lewis truly understands what ions expressed are his own. tor, and a business owner. She ment on social media. She’s mak- front-runners continue to shoot it means to be ideologically The Hill Times THE HILL TIMES | MONDAY, JULY 20, 2020 13 Opinion

It's on: In fact, the Biden campaign promises While the to tighten Buy American provisions. As his approaches of platform says, “Biden will use the govern- Donald Trump ment’s purchasing power to Buy American, and Joe Biden boosting U.S. industries through a historic are clearly procurement investment,” as well as “an different, both ambitious extension of his infrastruc- are promising ture and clean energy plans.” These Buy protectionist America provisions would “require that policies to all steel, iron, and manufactured products voters who used in transportation projects are melted, fear their mined and manufactured in the U.S.,” since country “they are critical for the U.S. manufactur- is falling ing industry.” behind— Early on, a Biden administration would and either spend an extra US$400-billion on govern- will create ment procurement to create new demand problems for for “American products, materials and ser- us, even if vices.” It will invest an extra US$300-billion Biden is the in research and development to strengthen preferable U.S. capacities in next-generation indus- choice, writes tries, from artificial intelligence, 5G com- David Crane. munications and biotechnology to electric Photographs vehicles, advanced manufacturing, clean courtesy of energy, and smart infrastructure. “This Flickr will be the largest mobilization of public investments in procurement, infrastructure and R&D since World War II,” the Biden documents claim. The auto industry gets special atten- tion from the Biden campaign which says the goal is “to ensure that the American auto industry “wins the 21st century.” The auto industry is described as “the heart of American manufacturing” and Biden says it must be “the global leader for genera- tions to come.” For starters, the U.S. government will U.S. election will have spend “tens of billions of dollars” on clean vehicles and parts produced in the U.S., drawing on Buy America, to create near- term demand for U.S.-made vehicles and parts. But the bigger goal is to spur U.S. auto innovation through public and private real outcomes for us, investments in technology and innovation, using part of the promised US$300-billion boost in federal R&D spending, with a big focus on electric vehicles, batteries, and low-carbon hydrogen fuel cells. The Biden campaign promises a total of no matter who wins US$1.7-trillion in spending on clean energy to lead America to “become the world’s clean energy superpower.” It promises of trade laws to penalize imports—the U.S. in world markets. But this depends on high-speed electric-powered freight and A Biden administration threat of new tariffs on Canadian alumi- a different kind of protectionism. passenger rail in crowded transport corri- num being the latest example— or the A Biden administration would make dors and even for a cost-to-coast network. would make much greater threat to scrap trade agreements, as we much greater use of Buy American laws, There are plans to accelerate and promote saw with the one-sided negotiation of with massive increases in public procure- commercialization and scaling up of tech use of Buy American laws, the Canada-U.S.-Mexico Agreement to ment or funding that would be confined companies through direct investments or with massive increases get new concessions from Canada and to products and services made in the U.S. grants and tax and other incentives, all Mexico. The strategy is to invest heavily in next- backed by Buy America provisions. in public procurement Seeing trade as a zero-sum game, in generation infrastructure, energy and So how will Canada respond? We which only one side can be a winner, the manufacturing through U.S. companies should be planning for a much more chal- or funding that would be Trump administration has also targeted and to develop technologies and intellec- lenging future now, not waiting to see who bilateral trade balances, demanding that tual property so that U.S. companies will wins in November. The U.S. election will confined to products and countries with trade surpluses buy speci- be poised to grab a much greater share have real outcomes for us no matter who services made in the U.S. fied amounts of U.S. products, as has been of world markets—in the process, Biden’s wins. the case with China. Even when the target campaign says, creating millions of well- David Crane can be reached at crane@ is another country, Canada can get side- paying and unionized American jobs. interlog.com. swiped. By arm-twisting the Chinese to The campaign at one point even takes aim The Hill Times buy more American farm products, some at Canada. “We will work with U.S. ports and of these U.S. farm exports will come at the labour unions to ensure that cargo bound expense of Canadian farmers who will end for U.S. is offloaded in the U.S. and not in up selling less. Canadian ports to avoid harbour taxes,” the So we have a rough idea of what we can campaign says. Prince Rupert, B.C., for ex- expect from another four years of Trump— ample, has become a major offloading hub for more confrontation, more threats of trade goods from Asia destined for the U.S. which wars, more bullying, more abuse of global are shipped south by Canadian railways. trade rules. This is how Trump’s America So as with Trump, it is an America David Crane First works. First strategy. With plans for a U.S.$1.3- Canada & the 21st Century But what about a Biden administra- trillion investment in infrastructure over 10 tion? How would its America First strategy years, the Biden campaign underlines Buy work? America. “American workers should build ORONTO—Regardless of who wins the The Biden campaign is promising mas- American infrastructure and manufacture TU.S. presidential election campaign in sive investments in infrastructure, clean all the materials that go into it.” So much November, it will be a victory for America energy, climate change, the auto industry for Canada-U.S. free trade. First. and innovation across the manufacturing “When we spend taxpayers’ money, we While the approaches of Donald Trump sector, as well as sharply increasing invest- should buy American products and support Order a Romantic and Joe Biden are clearly different, both ments in research and development and American jobs,” Biden says. His platform are promising protectionist policies to commercialization as well as in training complains that in 2018 the Defence Depart- Italian Dinner voters who fear their country is falling be- and skills. ment spent US$300-million on “foreign hind—and either will create problems for The goal is to use a protected American engines and vehicles instead of buying us, even if Biden is the preferable choice. market, backed by massive U.S. spending from American companies and putting 356 Preston St. • 613-749-7490 We already know the Trump approach. on innovation and advanced technologies, Americans to work.” Perhaps some of those It includes bullying threats and the misuse to accelerate the competitiveness of the vehicles came from Canada. lafavoritapreston.com 14 MONDAY, JULY 20, 2020 | THE HILL TIMES Opinion

Finance Minister Bill Morneau, pictured on Parliament Hill Forget the second wave of on March 18, 2020. Prices are determined by supply and demand, and enterprising individuals will find a solution lockdowns, prepare for the to anything profitable. Understanding these principles will be the key to a healthy prognosis for recovery. recessionary tsunami The only complication to worry about is more meddling by politicians, which has a simple will still mean cacophony of Politicians themselves will nev- cure: civic vigilance, writes Although this higher input prices and disrupted er admit to these problems. Many Ash Navabi. The Hill Times distribution networks. will tout that their decision-mak- photograph by Andrew Meade pandemic is novel, Finance Minister Bill Mor- ing has been prudent and shrewd, neau’s fiscal snapshot delivered as they’ve been seeking expert the laws of economics on July 8 predicts a very sharp advice. Officials tell us to expect remain unchanged. recovery in GDP, with a gentle the economy to bounce right back, tapering of unemployment. This is even though these advisers are not The impacts are already being money to prop up financial assets a bad prognosis. With or without economists themselves. Whether felt. Scholars estimate an increase devalues the currency overall. a second round of lockdowns, the recovery will look like a “V” or of more than 253,000 cases of in- Ultimately, all of us will be forced the economy will fall sharply “U,” we should seriously question fant mortality this year due to the to pay higher prices for everyday ill again. Simply put, the global the alphabet soup of optimism that global lockdowns (compare that goods and services. economy of the past few months we’re being told to swallow. number to 550,000, the worldwide Although this pandemic is nov- has produced less stuff to use Foremost: politicians have no death total of COVID-19). el, the laws of economics remain in trade, production, and manu- objective measure for determin- Between overloaded mental unchanged. Prices are determined facturing. What makes it worse ing what is and isn’t essential. The crisis hotlines, deferred cancer by supply and demand, and enter- is that these disruptions have global supply and distribution testing and treatment, an increase prising individuals will find a solu- happened at the arbitrary whim system is, quite literally, unimag- in domestic abuse, disruptions in tion to anything profitable. Under- Ash Navabi of bureaucrats. Even if demand inably complex. The metaphor supplying pharmaceuticals, and standing these principles will be Opinion returns to pre-COVID levels of a supply “chain” is misleading, a global food supply crisis that the key to a healthy prognosis for tomorrow, businesses may not as it implies a clear beginning the UN’s World Food Programme recovery. The only complication be able to support their existing and end. Since what may be a says could lead to 270 million to worry about is more meddling ORONTO—In the midst of workforces or capital structure. consumption good for one person people being “acutely food inse- by politicians, which has a simple Tmulti-phase reopening plans, The invisible hand of supply may be a capital good for another, cure,” it will be years until the full cure: civic vigilance. COVID-19 cases are back on the and demand will soon be greeting it’s more accurate to talk about an effects of these lockdowns will be Ash Navabi is an economist rise around the world. This has the market not with a socially dis- economic crochet—an intricate reckoned with. based in Toronto. He is also the caused talks of a second round tant salute; but rather with an in- interweaving of supply threads Governments around the senior economist at Housing of lockdowns to circulate before vasive groping of revenue streams and demand threads, coming to- world have been almost uniform Matters (a Toronto-based YIMBY this first round of unlocking. This and supply chains. Investors and gether in an ever growing pattern in their response: hand out money organization), and has been is music to the ears of struggling business owners must prepare for of commerce. Plucking away at to seemingly anyone who asks writing about a broad range of business owners. Yet we shouldn’t the worst. Expect more layoffs, random threads may seem harm- for it. Where did all this money economic issues in Canada and expect a government-orchestrated store closures, and bankruptcies, less at first, but it fundamentally come from, in a time when many the world since 2011. You can economic plan to be harmonious. as entrepreneurs unmask what the alters the structural integrity of are working and earning less? reach him at [email protected]. The new normal for businesses new normal will look like. the whole economy. The central banks. Yet printing The Hill Times

with prioritizing the auction of How COVID-19 changed Canada’s the 3,800-megahertz spectrum so Canadians can take advantage of 5G networks, as well as accelerat- ing the pace of mmWave spectrum conversation on digital infrastructure allocation so businesses can use the power of the internet of things for logistics, smart cities/towns, Canadian government charges care in this context for a moment. and other industrial purposes. Much has changed in the past few months, are among the highest broadband Canada has a growing aging But there’s more to the wire- licence fees globally. This two-fold population with more people over less story than services. An and in many ways we have all been forced setback has been magnified by the age of 65 than under the age increasingly digital economy to adapt. Let’s embrace this opportunity to COVID-19. That’s the thing about of 15. In some rural communities, will require major investments in critical infrastructure: it’s so easy citizens don’t have regular, direct sophisticated networks, cyberse- change by laying the groundwork of a digital to take it for granted. Today, it access to a general practitioner curity, and electronics. It will also would seem inconceivable to limit which is why revolutionizing force businesses to accelerate infrastructure that works for every Canadian, the ability of service providers to access to health care via virtual their adoption of new technolo- offer their services or build new means is critical to Canada’s gies and business models to inter- today and tomorrow. digital infrastructure. overall well-being. In addition to act with customers, suppliers, and Undoubtedly, COVID-19 the time-saving benefit, safety as- employees more efficiently. their internet services like never changed how Canadians think pect, and undeniable convenience Canada needs to start think- before, but also became relent- about internet services. Now is of utilizing healthcare services re- ing about programs, funding, and lessly dependent upon them. In a good time for Canada to think motely from your home, digitally incentives for technology adop- the language of COVID time, about the big picture of its digital accessible services also create a tion in businesses of all sizes, digital infrastructure became an infrastructure. Even as Canadians better carbon footprint. and across all sectors, to improve unprecedented essential service, continue supporting each other Canada needs to accelerate Canadian productivity and global showcasing accelerated technol- today, we must also begin looking its national plan for the rollout of competitiveness. ogy adoption at best. There’s no over the horizon to the post- broadband to all locations across Much has changed in the past point of return from where we are COVID-19 world to start planning the country, and for the government few months, and in many ways we today. how our country and economy to partner with service providers to have all been forced to adapt. Let’s Trevin Stratton Before COVID, so much was can emerge stronger. There will invest in infrastructure where there embrace this opportunity to change & Ulrike Bahr-Gedalia made of Canada having among be stark changes ahead with isn’t a business case for the private by laying the groundwork of a digital Opinion the highest wireless prices in the a focus on economic recovery, sector to do so alone. The digital infrastructure that works for every G7. Speciously absent from that opportunity, acceleration, and divide is no longer an option—and Canadian, today and tomorrow. n a matter of months, Canadi- political talking point were two collaboration—with domestic never should have been. Dr. Trevin Stratton is vice- Ians’ primary thoughts about critical determinants. First, the in- inclusive technology adoption Part of this plan includes recog- president of policy and chief broadband connectivity went convenient truth of the costs asso- and global competitiveness being nizing the undeniable importance economist of the Canadian from cost to need, and from ciated with building a high-speed top of mind. of our digital infrastructure and Chamber of Commerce. Ulrike “nice to have” to “must have.” In broadband network across one of Today, the focus is on ensur- the central role it plays in helping Bahr-Gedalia is senior director between virtual meetings, confer- the largest countries in the world ing all Canadians have access to Canada compete. We need to catch of digital economy, technology & ence calls, and running work that also has one of the smallest broadband services, including up to G7 peers by getting our innovation, Canadian Chamber of laptops from home, Canadians populations in the G7. Second, rural and remote communities. policies focused on enabling next- Commerce. everywhere were not only using the incomprehensible fact that Let’s think about virtual health generation technology. That starts The Hill Times THE HILL TIMES | MONDAY, JULY 20, 2020 15 Opinion

and insufficient resources to crack down on the illegal trade. A variety We must curb the wildlife trade of wild animals are coming into Canada from countries around the world and intensively bred within our borders. More than 500,000 live wild animals were imported into to prevent future pandemics Canada since 2014, but this is just a fraction of the total as permits are only required for those species ORONTO—While we look undoubtedly suffer and when wildlife markets remained closed regulated under the Convention on While China needs to Tforward to the future and im- animals are stressed, they can after the SARS outbreak, this pan- International Trade in Endangered munity to COVID-19, a vaccine shed more pathogens and become demic might never have happened. Species of Wild Fauna and Flora be encouraged to do won’t stop a pandemic from hap- more vulnerable to infections. Add The U.S. and Australia are (CITES). With limited tracking and pening again. To prevent another crowds of people and you can see calling for a permanent shut- data, public surveys have been used more, other countries global health and economic crisis, why wildlife markets are the ideal down of wildlife markets. And to estimate 1.4 million wild animals need to step up to the we must look back at how this environment for the emergence Germany’s environment minister are kept as pets in Canada. virus emerged. and spread of deadly, infectious is urging more ambitious inter- Alarmingly, 75 per cent of new plate. Wildlife markets It is widely acknowledged that diseases. It doesn’t matter how national action to restrict the or emerging infectious diseases a wildlife market in Wuhan, Chi- the animals were sourced or wildlife trade. affecting human health come from exist around the na, played a significant role in the what they are sold for—it is how While China needs to be en- animals, mainly wildlife. A new outbreak of COVID-19. Scientific they are treated that got us into couraged to do more, other coun- UN report on pandemic preven- world. This is a global research suggests the coronavirus this mess. It is an animal welfare tries need to step up to the plate. tion lists the wildlife trade as a problem, requiring a may have been transmitted from problem at the core which is why Wildlife markets exist around the key driver of emerging diseases. bats to pangolins to humans. a growing number of animal world. This is a global problem, This should be reason enough to global solution. While scientists are still investi- protection organizations, zoonotic requiring a global solution. compel Canada to support a ban gating the evolution of this virus, disease experts and ecologists are Millions of wild animals are on wildlife markets and commit to we can no longer afford to ignore calling on the Canadian govern- captured, bred and traded for meat, curbing the global and domestic that this pandemic and previ- ment to recognize this in their traditional medicine and pets every wildlife trade at the G20 summit ous major epidemics around the pandemic prevention strategy. year and sold at different types in November. This would not only world (e.g., SARS, MERS, Ebola,) The high cost of this pandemic of markets around the world and prevent animal suffering, species are fundamentally linked to the has moved China to ban the con- increasingly online. Animal suf- extinction, and biodiversity loss, cruel treatment of animals and sumption of many wildlife species fering exists at every stage and pre- it is also one of the most effective encroachment on their habitats. for food, but a more comprehen- liminary research suggests the risk strategies for preventing future Picture a diverse array of live sive ban is needed to cover the of disease transmission increases pandemics. The enormous cost of animals, who would never encoun- farming, sale, and trade of wildlife along the wildlife supply chain. this pandemic to Canadian lives ter each other in the wild, kept for other purposes. To be effective, Canada must recognize its role and our economy warrants noth- close together, in filthy, cramped it must also be backed by strong in allowing the trade and consumer ing less than bold and firm action. Melissa Matlow cages, next to dead animal parts enforcement and initiatives to demand for wild animals and wild- Melissa Matlow is campaign Opinion and products made from them, reduce consumer demand and life products to grow. This is enabled director for the World Animal while other animals are being transition livelihoods and the ban by a patchwork of inadequate Protection. slaughtered nearby. These animals must be permanent. Had these regulations to restrict the legal trade The Hill Times

on international development was ing COVID-19, until a vaccine Coronavirus: why Canada must still below where it was under the is produced and distributed in Harper government. Not only has adequate quantities around the the Trudeau government failed world. We can begin targeting recalibrate its foreign aid policy to outspend the Harper govern- the most-affected countries, help ment on foreign aid, Canada also strengthen their health infra- ranks lower than its European structure and keep their econo- pandemic has demonstrated that many will then suffer from poor counterparts. Recently, Canada mies afloat. We can increase our in our interconnected world order, nutrition and hunger arising from lost its bid to gain a seat on the Foreign aid contributions we cannot protect the Canadian economic isolation. Meanwhile, a United Nations Security Council, are not fixed and can change on international aid mainland without projecting number of developing countries, failing to win against Ireland and an annual basis. For example, contributions and our reach abroad. While closing including India, Mexico, and the Norway. The two countries have compared to 2018, our foreign borders can be a short-term solu- Philippines, are losing billions of increased foreign aid spending in aid to Syria increased by 21 per reform our foreign aid tion, the Canadian economy will dollars as their overseas migrant recent years, while Canada’s aid cent, while assistance levels to inevitably open its doors to cross- workers are becoming unem- spending has remained stagnant. Afghanistan decreased by -22 per program, an approach border travel and international ployed in record numbers. Just This poor track-record is un- cent in 2019. Hence, in the next tourism, thus making our citizens last year, tens of millions of mi- justifiable, given that Canada’s upcoming year, we can temporar- that will be mutually vulnerable to the ongoing pan- grant workers working overseas economy is more than four times ily divert our funding away from demic and other potential viruses. sent a staggering $554-billion larger than Ireland and Norway. countries that have managed to advantageous to Once a vaccine is produced, its back to their home nations. Recently, the Trudeau govern- flatten the curve, and instead Canada’s national distribution will not be immedi- In Western Asia, cash-strapped ment has pledged $300-million to focus on countries with low test- ate. The global economy is in a governments are unable to finan- address humanitarian concerns of ing capacity, surging cases, and interest as well as its recessionary period and develop- cially accommodate their vulner- COVID-19 abroad. This contribu- ones that have suffered the most ing countries have been hit the able populations. In sanctions-hit tion includes $120-million toward economically. global standing. hardest. This environment will Iran, the government couldn’t the Access to COVID-19 Tools The recent United Nations most likely translate to higher afford to impose a nation-wide (ACT) Accelerator, recently creat- Security Council vote must serve refugee numbers and thus be- lockdown, fearing a potential rise ed by the World Health Organiza- as a reminder that the Trudeau come a matter of health security in unemployment numbers. Now, tion, the European Commission, government has so far failed to for Canada. In this light, Canada a second wave of COVID-19 cases the Bill and Melinda Gates Foun- improve its global image as a pro- must increase its cooperation has emerged in the country, with dation, and the French govern- active middle power. The negative with multilateral institutions, the government still financially ment, aimed at ensuring equitable implications of a global economic recalibrate its foreign aid efforts, unable to impose a quarantine access to medical treatments. downturn and the resurgence of and assist the most vulnerable and resorting to making face The contribution also includes a second wave, originating from countries. masks mandatory for the general $180-million to address the devel- a foreign source, are serious risks Thus far, the pandemic has public. In war-torn Syria, the opmental and humanitarian rami- to our national security. We can dealt a heavy blow to develop- country’s limited testing capac- fications of the pandemic. Since increase our international aid Pouyan Kimiayjan ing countries. Limited testing ity has only recorded 372 cases. the emergence of COVID-19, the contributions and reform our Opinion capacity, poor health infrastruc- Refugee camps across the world government has channelled much foreign aid program, an approach tures, and weak social security are also fearing a surge in coro- of its foreign aid through interna- that will be mutually advanta- programs have exacerbated the navirus cases. tional organizations. This effort geous to Canada’s national inter- ANCOUVER—The Trump crisis. In low-income countries, To help these nations, Canada is highly welcome, particularly est as well as its global standing. Vadministration has offi- social distancing carries a high needs to significantly improve its as the United States has failed to Pouyan Kimiayjan is a re- cially begun to withdraw from cost: vulnerable members of so- foreign aid track record. In 2018, take the lead on the global stage. search fellow for the Institute the World Health Organization ciety have low food stocks, small the Organisation for Economic Canada must stay on course and for Peace & Diplomacy who (WHO), creating a budget vacuum savings, and are dependent on Co-operation and Development build on this effort. writes on Canadian foreign policy, that will limit the organization’s casual labour. Under these condi- (OECD) protested that as a share On the other hand, Canada European affairs, and Middle ability to help impacted countries tions, working from home is not of gross national income, the must recalibrate its foreign aid Eastern issues. fight COVID-19. Meanwhile, the an option. And once unemployed, federal government’s spending agenda and prioritize fight- The Hill Times 16 MONDAY, JULY 20, 2020 | THE HILL TIMES Opinion Police reboot: there’s an urgent need to listen and focus on community needs, not police needs

While these words may be suming and has no effect on the and, to recognize always that the more success reducing crime To those who are good common sense to most peo- reduction of crime and disorder power of the police to fulfill their than simply driving around wait- ple, the reality is that the police in our communities. functions and duties is depen- ing for something to happen. tasked with the are most often at odds with the Most police officers are skilled, dent on public approval of their Information is the lifeblood of responsibility of needs of the community. This is well-equipped and committed existence, actions and behaviour, policing. not the fault of individual police to their work. Generally, they and on their ability to secure and Police organizations must be examining police officers. It is the outdated, tradi- are there when you need them maintain public respect.” less bureaucratic, be decentral- tional organizational components and act immediately to bring Many marginalized groups in ized to local communities, be operations and of police agencies that inhibit some calm to a difficult situation. Canada are desperately looking communicative and consulta- well-intentioned police officers However, your police have both for help. These are the people that tive, and be problem-solving budgets, be brave and from doing their work. the ability and opportunity to do police serve. based. Police organizations in Cana- much more. It is the organizations City councillors in Canada are Enforcement must not domi- be innovative; your da are bureaucratic, centralized, that they work within that impede beginning to listen. Police agen- nate policing strategies. work is important. It highly structured, impersonal, them from doing so. cies are beginning to listen. There are many skeptics who process oriented and law-enforce- To make matters worse, the Canadian police leaders have do not recognize the value in is in the public’s best ment based. The basic operational traditional manner in which po- both the authority and ability reviewing police budget alloca- components are random patrol, lice are deployed has the majority to make change. Police leaders tions and looking for a better interest. rapid response and investigation, of police personnel in cars, re- with a true understanding of way to do business. Many of the after the fact. This is simply the sponding to a variety of calls-for- Peel’s principles and with their functions performed by police way it is. Many empirical studies service. The calls received at the personal commitment to com- today need not be done by police of police operations have shown dispatch centre drive the actions munity well-being can achieve officers. There are many op- that random patrol has no affect of your police. success through consultation portunities to examine admin- on the prevention or incidence They respond, conduct an with community leaders and istrative police functions and of crime, victimization rates, or investigation, report and apply with decisive, focused leader- eliminate them, freeing police public perception of police ef- law enforcement as the only tool ship. officers for reassignment to help fectiveness. available to them, and then they While there will always be communities deal with their Rapid response by police is are back in the car responding to a need to have police available problems. only marginally effective and in another call. This is the way it is. to respond to urgent calls for To those who are tasked with the majority of cases, response It is time for a reboot. service and conduct investiga- the responsibility of examining David Cassels comes during or after a crime Many Canadians including tions, there are many opportuni- police operations and budgets, Opinion has been committed, leaving the some police officers do not know ties to redeploy police officers to be brave and be innovative; your police to spend countless hours Sir Robert Peel’s Principles of local troubled communities with work is important. It is in the investigating. Again, empirical Policing. a mandate to listen, then focus public’s best interest. DMONTON—Policing is first studies have proven that there is Two of these principles are on helping people in neighbour- David Cassels is a former Eand foremost a service to no evidence that rapid response significant and particularly hoods by reducing or eliminate deputy chief of police for the the community; the more it is at increases apprehension rates or relevant today: to prevent crime recurring crime and disorder Police Service, and a odds with the needs and values has any effect on crime rates. and disorder, as an alternative to problems. This establishes both retired chief of police for the Win- of the community, the less it Unfortunately, investigation after- their repression by military force trust and understanding. These nipeg Police Service. works. the-fact is exceptionally time-con- and severity of legal punishment; police officers will have much The Hill Times

in Canada, it is not new to Canadi- an companies working in defence Why it is time for smart protectionism and national security. The Cana- dian defence industry has long highlighted the need for focused time it makes sense to do so. warned that Canadian companies the peak of their COVID-19 out- sovereign production and control Put simply, Canadian However, through the CO- that produce certain critical tech- break. In April, a presidential ex- in key national security capabili- governments have VID-19 pandemic, both the public nologies are vulnerable to foreign ecutive order gave the U.S. Federal ties—in part to ensure security of and private sectors have seen takeovers by entities with agendas Emergency Management Agency supply—as our allies in the U.S., a responsibility weaknesses associated with heavy hostile to Canada’s interests. the power to “allocate to domestic Europe and elsewhere have been or total reliance on foreign sources use” sev- doing for generations. to practise smart and global supply chains for essen- Foreign Affairs Minister eral types The argument has fallen tial goods, notably personal protec- François-Philippe of PPE largely on deaf ears. There seems protectionism tive equipment (PPE). As of June Champagne, pictured that would to be a greater aversion in Canada where the risks to 2, for example, the Government of on the Hill on Feb. 7, otherwise to any kind of protectionism than Canada had ordered close to 122 2020. While we can be export- among our more pragmatic allies. Canadians’ personal million N95 masks from interna- still hold free trade ed. U.S. There is also a belief that Canada tional suppliers, yet 12 million had and integrated global produced can always rely on obtaining criti- security and national been received and 9.8 million of supply chains as the masks cal supplies from the U.S., owing those failed Canadian standards. goal, we also need to bound for to both our close trading relation- security are high. We are learning the hard way recognize that this Germany, ship and bi-lateral defence agree- that foreign sources cannot neces- view of the economy a close ments dating from the 1950s that sarily supply the products we need does not always serve American purport to establish an integrated in the time, quantity or quality re- our national interests, ally, were North American defence indus- quired during a national or global writes Christyn reportedly trial base. emergency. Cianfarani. The Hill diverted Canada puts too much faith in China, as the dominant global Times photograph by back while these beliefs, to our peril. producer of many of these PPE Andrew Meade in transit. While we can still hold free supplies, has become the focal Ulti- trade and integrated global supply point for an emerging debate mately, chains as the goal, we also need around domestic control over This is not just an issue with Canada was exempt from the U.S. to recognize that this view of the certain goods, technologies, and China, though. In Canada, we like order, but this episode should tell economy does not always serve Christyn Cianfarani services. A recent report from the to believe that in national or global us that global emergencies can our national interests. Put simply, Henry Jackson Society in the U.K., crises we can rely on the U.S. or lead to “home front comes first” Opinion Canadian governments have a for example, has argued the “Five other allies for help. Canada, in attitudes, even among our closest responsibility to practise smart Eyes”—the U.S., U.K., Canada, other words, would be at or near allies. protectionism where the risks to ree trade is good economics. Australia and New Zealand—are the front of the line with allies. Fundamentally, the issue comes Canadians’ personal security and FProtectionism is bad. Global far too reliant on Chinese sources The COVID-19 pandemic, and the down to one of efficiency versus national security are high. supply chains are efficient. Favour- for all kinds of strategically impor- behavior of the U.S. and European necessity. Sometimes, in some areas Christyn Cianfarani is president ing domestic goods, services and tant goods, and that this is a threat countries, suggests this is naive. of the economy, security of supply is and CEO of the Canadian Asso- industries is inefficient. to the national security of those Italy, a founding EU member, more important than efficiency. ciation of Defence and Security Canada has long adhered to countries. The Canadian Secu- requested and was denied face While this thinking is new to Industries (CADSI). these orthodoxies. And most of the rity Intelligence Service, too, has masks from the EU’s stockpile at most companies and governments The Hill Times THE HILL TIMES | MONDAY, JULY 20, 2020 17 Opinion

South Africa’s seriousness presence, and an ac- President tive, ongoing campaign, votes will Cyril be there next time. Ramaphosa, So, what can be done? left, is a First, if Canada really seasoned wants the seat, a lot of work will diplomat and need to be put into it. Again, Can- if Canada ada will need to focus on could have strengthening relations with a strong African countries. A country such relationship as South Africa, with an influen- with him, it tial leader, who is also the cur- would help rent head of the African Union, re-establish would be a good first step. South the once Africa’s President Cyril Rama- strong phosa is a seasoned diplomat and relationship if Canada could have a strong Canada relationship with him, it would had with help re-establish the once strong South Africa relationship Canada had with and other South Africa and other countries countries on on the African continent. So, it’ll the African be wise to make use of a person continent, like former prime minister Brian writes Tshweu Mulroney, who is well-regarded Moleme. in South Africa, given his history Photograph with the country, particularly, his courtesy of fight against apartheid and his Commons support for South Africa’s black Wikipedia majority. South Africans have not for- gotten what Mulroney did—stand- ing up to the apartheid regime, at a time when some leaders and countries around the world wouldn’t. This is the man you want to see meeting with Ramaphosa and, through him, the rest of the continent, working Canada should keep Security Council through issues, and strengthening Canada’s relations with Africa. If Canada can sustain such a cam- paign, with authenticity, there’s seat campaign alive: reach out to a very good chance we’d win the Security Council seat next time. The second consideration for Canada will have to be the Africa; use Mulroney; be authentic upkeep and strengthening of the election machinery that just failed Bob Rae, pictured in in the attempt to win Canada There are many lessons to learn from this file photograph the coveted UN Security Council at the National seat. This means that the minute such a loss; chiefly that any leader in the Press Theatre in Canada learned of its loss, that Prime Minister’s Office should be keeping Ottawa, could should have been the minute help in restoring and Canada restarted its new cam- the Security Council election file alive and employing Canada’s paign for the seat, maintaining an historic relations and active relationship-building pres- ready to pass it on, in the case of a change in strengthening ties with ence. Third, Canada, uniquely old friends, writes positioned as a country with political leadership in the country. Tshweu Moleme. The people from just about every part Hill Times photograph by of the world, should make use of da, home to so many people from Andrew Meade this advantage. around the world, should not lose Finally, while it is unclear the Security Council seat so many whether Trudeau will remain times. Former Progressive in office beyond the next elec- Indeed, an ambassado- Conservative prime tion, or not, he needs to build rial shakeup at our United minister Brian up a transferable, politically Nations office in New York Mulroney, pictured inclusive Security Council will be a welcome change to in Ottawa at a public campaign that takes into con- some. However, our strategy speaking engagement sideration the possibility of him should go beyond such a shift and his party losing power and Tshweu Moleme on March 5, 2019. The in UN representation. More Hill Times photograph by another party taking over. This Opinion importantly, and perhaps where Andrew Meade is an issue of national interest, the new ambassador, Bob Rae, and doing the right thing in this could also help, is in Canada’s re- respect will also be considered ORONTO—Canada had a storing its historic relations an important part of his legacy, Tdecade to campaign for a seat and strengthening ties with old likely alongside his handling on the UN Security Council and friends. of the COVID-19 pandemic. it was disappointing to see us Of course, the question For Canada to have defeated again. There are many of whether Canada is doing drew a fair bit of criticism. So, For example, we saw a slight a real chance, however, to lessons to learn from such a enough or not abroad, has also a lot remains to be done. Harp- improvement in the number of succeed in attaining the Security loss; chiefly that any leader in the come up many times and based er struggled to gain votes votes for Canada received this Council seat, we would first Prime Minister’s Office should on the opinion of trusted observ- from the Africa bloc and Trudeau time around. While some might need to assemble a strong, non- be keeping the Security Council ers in this area, there’s room is also struggling to break argue that the numbers were just partisan campaign group who can election file alive and ready for improvement. Canada can into that vote-rich bloc. not enough, others could counter help us win, in the next election. to pass it on, especially in the do better, particularly in areas No doubt, Canada’s loss of the that there was a message in these Enough with licking wounds. case of a change in political such as foreign aid, where much Security Council seat was not the votes: “take us seriously, and we Go get that seat, Canada. Our leadership. In other words, our of the criticism can also be found. end of the world but, truth be told, will take you seriously.” friends at the UN are still waiting very existence at the United Na- There could also be a lesson or a bruising reminder that Canada Justin Trudeau’s government for us to show up, as a real tions should be our permanent two learned from former prime could do better. There are indica- managed to pull in 108 votes this friend. Perhaps we do need Bob campaign; a campaign that will minister Stephen Harper’s at- tions that there is slowly, a little time around, while Harper was Rae at the helm? Time will tell. produce real and strong rela- tempt at the Security Council gravitation towards Canada. We only able to get 78 votes in Tshweu Moleme is a PhD stu- tionships in the long term. Our seat. In his case, there were need to keep that alive, and 2010. So, we saw a small, dent at the Ontario Institute for country will also have to strongly a myriad of concerns at the we also need to gravitate to- but important improvement Studies in Education at Univer- consider employing the diplomat- UN, such as his positions on wards those with whom we want here. In other words, Canada is sity of Toronto. ic capital at its disposal. Cana- the Middle East, which often to help build strong relationships. getting there, and with a more The Hill Times 18 MONDAY, JULY 20, 2020 | THE HILL TIMES News If MacKay doesn’t win on the first ballot, social Conservative voters critical in the leadership outcome, say political players

Continued from page 5 candidate has signed up during supporters, including Richard new voters in this race, and they Outhouse, a former Hill staffer. the leadership election campaign. Decarie and Jim Karahalios, both don’t understand how the pref- “And so when there are causes the candidate who received the Currently, the four leadership of whom have been barred from erential ballot works unless it is that we believe in, and when there fewest first-place votes is elimi- campaigns are busy ensuring running in the leadership contest. explained to them.” are candidates that we believe in, nated, and his or her ballots that all of their supporters cast The Conservative Party Mr. Trost also said that leader- it’s not enough to just sort of say, are diverted to the candidate their votes in the election. Getting never officially said why they had ship candidates who will not be ‘Yes, I’m voting for you.’ A lot of they had ranked second. This supporters to vote is crucial to the barred Mr. Decarie from tak- the first choice of social conser- social conservatives then want to process continues until one of success of all of the campaigns, ing part in the leadership elec- vatives should make an effort to give their time and they want to the candidates receives 50 per no matter how many members tion as a candidate. In January reach out to those voters to seek give their money to help advance cent-plus one of the vote. The they signed up. he made national headlines for their help in winning the election, good people running for office or party members would vote only Fourteen candidates ran in the making controversial comments including Mr. MacKay and Mr. advance causes that they believe one time, but ballots continue to 2017 leadership election, and it in a CTV interview that being O’Toole. in.” be redistributed by dropping the took 13 rounds of voting for the gay is a choice and that he was “So this race could come down He said that his campaign is last-place finisher until a clear winner, Andrew Scheer, to be against same sex marriage and to how well the leading candi- sending out information to all of winner emerges. named. government funding of abortion dates can educate second, third… their supporters on how to vote All 338 ridings across the Jack Fonseca, director of services. A number of senior Con- preferences and how much they in a ranked ballot system, but country are weighted equally political operations for the anti- servatives and caucus members go after those voters,” Mr. Trost won’t tell them who to vote for and are worth 100 points each, abortion advocacy group Cam- condemned these comments. said. as their second, third, or fourth for a total of 33,800 points to be paign Life Coalition told The Hill The Conservative Party also Steve Outhouse, Ms. Lewis’s choices. Mr. Outhouse said it’s captured. The leadership contest Times that his organization has barred Mr. Karahalios’ poten- campaign manager, said social up to each individual candidate winner will need at least 16,901 endorsed only Ms. Lewis and tial candidacy after the O’Toole conservative members are an to reach out to social conserva- points, or just more than 50 per Mr. Sloan, and is encouraging campaign filed a complaint with important part of the Conserva- tive voters on their own and earn cent of the maximum points avail- their supporters to vote for these the party that the Cambridge, tive Party’s base. He said social their support. able. two candidates. He said that his Ont. lawyer had made “racist conservatives are “not necessarily “We’re certainly going to be Islamophobic remarks” against single issue” voters, but they are talking to members on how to fill Former cabinet Walied Soliman, the chair of the people whose lives are guided in their ballot, or at least on the minister Peter O’Toole campaign. Mr. Karahalios by their faith. Once they decide instructions on how to do that,” MacKay is the challenged the party’s decision in to support a candidate, they not Mr. Outhouse. “In fact, we are front-runner in court, arguing that it was made only vote but also donate money sending out a mail-out to support- the leadership by a subcommittee of Leadership and volunteer for the campaigns ers and encouraging them to do election. If he Election Organization Commit- they’re supporting, he said. just that. So we’re not going to does not win tee, which was not authorized “We grow up and live our lives, tell people who to put in second, on the first to make the decision. The court hearing messages about how it’s third or fourth, we think everyone ballot, social accepted his position and over- not just enough to have faith, you will make their decision.” conservatives turned the party’s decision, but a need to put your faith into action [email protected] will play a day after that the full 18-member to help other people,” said Mr. The Hill Times critical role in LEOC decided to bar Mr. Kara- the outcome of halios again. the leadership Meanwhile, Mr. Trost told The Conservative leadership election endorsements election. The Hill Times that social conserva- Hill Times file tives are not a homogenous block Peter MacKay’s Jasraj Hallan photograph of voters. Even though a signifi- endorsements Conservative MPs cant majority of them might vote Greg McLean for social conservative leader- A poll of 7,958 party members organization has recruited be- ship candidates, some would Cathy McLeod by Mainstreet Research in May tween 30,000-40,000 members for likely vote for Mr. MacKay or Mr. found that Mr. MacKay had the this leadership election, and has O’Toole as their first choice for Senators Rob Morrison support of 45 per cent of decided encouraged them to not only vote a variety of reasons, including John Barlow respondents, versus 36 per cent but also make financial donations regional loyalty. Former mili- for Mr. O’Toole, 12 per cent for to the two candidates. tary personnel may vote for Mr. Pierre-Hugues Boisvenu Ms. Lewis, and seven per cent Mr. Fonseca said that his O’Toole, he said. for Mr. Sloan, iPolitics reported. organization has about 200,000 Mr. Trost has endorsed Ms. Norman Doyle Many Conservative insiders say members. In 2017, he said, Cam- Lewis and Mr. Sloan. He said Michael MacDonald they also believe that Mr. MacKay paign Life Coalition had signed social conservative party mem- Michael Cooper is the front-runner. up about 11,000 new members bers who have participated in James Cumming The Conservative Party an- to support Brad Trost, and Pierre the past in leadership elections nounced last week that 270,000 Lemieux, the two social conserva- know how the ranked ballot Chris D’Entremont Rose-May Poirier party members are eligible to tive candidates in the leadership system works, but a significant vote in the leadership election. election. It is believed within the number of the new members The last date to sign up new party that Mr. Scheer won the may not, and may only indicate Kerry-Lyne Findlay members allowed to vote in the leadership on the 13thballot in only their first or second choices leadership contest was May 15. At 2017, by less than two per cent on the ballot. Both social conser- the start of the leadership election Joel Godin Erin O’Toole’s Senators margin, because of support from vative candidates must encour- Bernard Généreux endorsements in January, the party had about social conservatives. age their supporters to fill the MPs 170,000 members, which means “Our estimate at this point is ballot completely, he said, and Michael Barrett Larry Smith the leadership candidates signed between 30,000 to 40,000 Con- explain how the system works. up about 100,000 new members. servative Party memberships,” Mr. Trost said this will increase Leslyn Lewis’s The contest is expected to wrap said Mr. Fonseca. “So that’s a big the influence of the social con- endorsements up Aug. 21, the deadline for mail- number. In the 2017 leadership servative voters in the leader- MPs in ballots. The party has started race, we recruited just over 11,000 ship election. Dave MacKenzie to mail ballots to party members, memberships to support Brad “Voters need to be educated Kelly McCauley and the party must receive the Trost and as the on how the preferential bal- Phil McColeman Tamara Jensen completed ballots by 5 p.m. on top ballot choices, so we’ve really lot works,” said Mr. Trost. “The Garnett Genuis Aug. 21. The winner of the elec- upped our game in this leadership preferential ballot is still some- Jeremy Patzer tion would be announced right race with by tripling or quadru- thing that’s new to a lot of people. after the party completes the pling that number.” [Party members] who have voted Pierre Paul-Hus counting process. Mr. Fonseca said that his orga- more than once in a leadership Derek Sloan’s Neither the party nor indi- nization has also helped all social race or a nomination race are endorsements No caucus endorsement vidual candidates have made it conservative candidates raise comfortable with it. But what I’m Phil Lawrence public how many members each thousands of dollars from their hearing [is] there is a number of THE HILL TIMES | MONDAY, JULY 20, 2020 19

Government House Leader and Pablo hill climbers Rodriguez, pictured in the West Block by Laura Ryckewaert on June 10. The Hill Times photograph by Christopher Evelyn takes Andrew Meade over as chief of staff to Women and Gender

Equality Minister Monsef deadline, a new director of operations She’s also a former information agent for had not been hired yet in Ms. Monsef’s the National Capital Commission, a former office. researcher for Radio-Canada, and a former Women With Mr. Evelyn’s promotion, it means theatre director for Gatineau’s Casino Lac and Gender there are now two cabinet chiefs of staff Leamy. Equality who are Black, out of 37 (including the Geneviève Hinse is chief of staff to Mr. Minister PMO). Marjorie Michel, chief of staff to Rodriguez as Quebec Lieutenant. That Maryam Treasury Board President Jean-Yves team also currently includes regional Monsef, Duclos, became the first Black person to affairs directors Paul-Christian Nolin pictured Dec. lead a ministerial office under the Trudeau and Marie-Laurence Lapointe, a former 6, 2019, government; she was first promoted to the Quebec MNA and Liberal MP from 2015 speaking role roughly one year ago. It also means to 2019; director of community relations with reporters that now five out of cabinet’s 37 chiefs of Norair Serengulian; and senior regional outside the staff—or 13.5 per cent—are not white. affairs advisers Ramez Ayoub (also a House of Also currently at work in Ms. Mon- former Liberal MP from 2015 to 2019, and Commons in sef’s office are: Yanique Williams, direc- former mayor of Lorraine, Que.) and Éric the West Block. tor of policy; Matthew Pollesel, director Beaulieu. The Hill Times of parliamentary affairs; Alex Howell, A few staffers support Mr. Rodriguez photograph by director of communications; Marie-Pier in both of his roles: Mr. Ross, director of Andrew Meade Baril, press secretary; Mike Bossio, senior communications Lois-François Brodeur, adviser for rural affairs; Rosalyn Stevens, communications adviser Emmanuelle senior special assistant for communica- Ducharme, and executive assistant Lynda tions and planning; Isabella McKenna, Bouraoui. special assistant for parliamentary affairs In Mr. Rodriguez’s House leader’s of- and issues management; Kendra Wilcox, fice, there’s a belated staff addition to note, policy adviser; Laurence Harvey, policy with Alexander Wozny having joined the and Quebec regional affairs adviser; Skye team as a special assistant for parliamen- Wolff, Ontario regional affairs adviser; tary affairs in March. Harry Burton, special assistant for opera- omen and Gender Equality Minister He has both a bachelor’s degree in tions and Atlantic regional affairs; Joanna Alexander WMaryam Monsef has a new chief international political economy and Lam, regional affairs adviser for Western Wozny is a of staff leading her office with the recent history and a master’s degree in his- Canada and the Territories; Heather Porter, parliamentary promotion of Christopher Evelyn to the top tory from Trent University, which sits in executive assistant and scheduler to the affairs job. Ms. Monsef’s riding of Peterborough- minister; and Danielle Moriarty, assistant assistant to the Mr. Evelyn has been working for Ms. Kawartha, Ont. While a student at the to the minister’s parliamentary secretary, government Monsef since late 2015, and has slowly school, Mr. Evelyn spent time working Liberal MP . House leader. been working his way up the proverbial as a liaison officer and then enrolment Photograph Hill ladder since. adviser for the university. He also has a Rodriguez adds director to courtesy of master’s degree in international affairs, LinkedIn with a specialization in intelligence and Quebec Lieutenant team national security, from Carlton Universi- Government House Leader and Que- ty’s Norman Paterson School of Interna- bec Lieutenant Pablo Rodriguez recently tional Affairs, as noted on his LinkedIn welcomed Agathe Alie to his political staff profile. team as director of operations and out- A former Ontario Liberal staffer, before reach in his office as cabinet’s point-person she took the helm in Ms. Monsef’s office, for La Belle province. Ms. O’Leary spent a year as director of issues management in the Prime Minis- Agathe ter’s Office. She’s also a former director of Alie is now issues management and alternate chief of director of Mr. Wozny had previously working in staff to then-infrastructure minister Amar- operations Innovation, Science, and Industry Minister jeet Sohi. and ’ office since December 2019 Stayed tuned to Hill Climbers for an outreach and in the summer of 2019 interned in then- update on where she’s landed. As of filing to Mr. intergovernmental, northern affairs, and Rodriguez internal trade minister Dominic LeBlanc’s as Quebec office. He’s also a former House of Com- lieutenant. mons page and proceedings and verification Photograph officer—all while studying for a bachelor’s Christopher Evelyn is Ms. Monsef’s new chief of courtesy of degree in political science and communica- staff. Photograph courtesy of LinkedIn LinkedIn tions at the University of Ottawa. Rheal Lewis is chief of staff to Mr. He started out as a policy adviser in Ms. Rodriguez as government House leader. Monsef’s office as minister of democratic insti- That team also includes: John Matheson, tutions. After Ms. Monsef was shuffled into the director of policy; Daniel Arsenault, direc- then-named post of minister of status of women, tor of Senate affairs; issues management; Mr. Evelyn was quick to follow, and a year later Hugo Dompierre, director of parliamen- was promoted to director of operations. tary affairs; Kornelia Mankowski, director Mr. Evelyn officially took over as Ms. Ms. Alie officially joined Mr. Rodri- of Rob Jamieson, senior adviser; senior Monsef’s chief of staff in early July, replac- guez’s office on June 2 and in her new advisers for parliamentary affairs Trevor ing Leslie O’Leary, who’d been in the role role works on “co-ordinating the minister’s Harrison and Izabel Czuzoj-Shulman; since December 2019. She marked her last tours in Quebec,” noted Mr. Rodriguez’s Jean-Luc Plourde, senior special assistant day in the office at the end of last week. press secretary, Simon Ross. for parliamentary affairs; Jérôme Miousse, Before joining Parliament Hill’s politi- Previously, Ms. Alie spent almost 18 policy adviser; Samar Assoum, special cal staff ranks, Mr. Evelyn spent almost years in all working for the Cirque du assistant for parliamentary affairs; and three years working with the Canadian Air Soleil Entertainment Group in Montreal, special assistant Shahnaz Mouhamou. Transport Security Authority, ending in Leslie O’Leary ended her time as chief of staff to Ms. the last seven and a half years of which [email protected] December 2015 as a policy adviser. Monsef last week. Photograph courtesy of LinkedIn she was principal director of public affairs. The Hill Times 20 MONDAY, JULY 20, 2020 | THE HILL TIMES News

U.S. Court, there’s always drama in President U.S. elections in a way that we Donald don’t seem to have by compari- Trump, son,” said Sen Boehm. “There will pictured be a lot of observation, and I on July 15, think at the political level, a lot of 2020, in attention not to be seen as favour- the Oval ing one candidate over another, Office of the just like the last time,” said Sen. White House. Boehm. Photograph Sen. Boehm also said he courtesy of thinks social media, which Mr. the White Trump makes considerable use House Flickr of, will play a bigger role in the campaign than it did in 2016. “It was prevalent in 2016, and Twitter is obviously a tool that President Trump uses, and uses to his advantage, but I would say there’s always nastiness in political campaigns [but] the real nastiness will be seen on social media,” said Sen. Boehm. “That’s, frankly, where it could get dangerous because you have an unprecedented situation with the pandemic, you have the racism issue which is significant, and you have some global geopoliti- cal issues that are more preva- lent than they were before—I’m speaking obviously of China, in this instance.” Former diplomat Colin Rob- ertson, with more than 30 years U.S. presidential campaign likely in Canada’s foreign service, told The Hill Times “we’ve never had a president like him.” “And that’s acknowledged to be ‘ugly or uglier than last time,’ globally, and in normal circum- stances, our entrée into the United States system is through the office of the presidency and administra- and of ‘deep concern’ to Canadians tion,” said Mr. Robertson. “With Trump, we’ve had to work around dealing as best as “They’re, I think, hoping and President we can with secretaries, who Former Liberal waiting for a change in govern- Donald come and go with remarkable ment in November.” J. Trump rapidity, but that has proven to foreign affairs Nik Nanos of Nanos Research boards be useful and necessary, particu- minister and deputy told The Hill Times that the first Marine One larly during the negotiation of the inclination for Canadian politi- on the South Canada-U.S.-Mexico agreement,” prime minister John cians and policy-makers should Lawn of the said Mr. Robertson. be to “stay clear” of U.S. politics. White House Former Liberal foreign affairs Manley says the U.S. “Right now, we’re in a very Wednesday, minister and deputy prime min- volatile situation in the United July 15, ister said the U.S. election campaign States because of the rising num- 2020, to election campaign “is going to be ber of cases, the perceived lack of begin his trip a very touchy thing for Canadian ‘is going to be a very coordination in the response, the to Atlanta. politicians to handle.” touchy thing for potential recurrence or emergence Photograph “There’s always a balance of a second wave, and from a courtesy: that you need to project on the Canadian politicians political perspective, the best thing OfficialWhite Canada-U.S. file—on the one Canada can do is to stay clear of House photo hand, historically, it’s always been to handle.’ all of that because you don’t want by Tia Dufour important not to be seen to be too Canada to be part of the narrative.” close to the United States. On the “The best case scenario for other hand, Canadians intuitively Canada is when Americans don’t Continued from page 1 know they have important inter- pay attention to us because that ests tied up, especially economic t seems to be definitely just means everything is working interests, many family ties, they “Iaffecting how we’re look- well,” said Mr. Nanos. “To enter like traveling there and going ing at things within our own into a scrap over the border, for “I don’t think that he’s going 10-point lead, and then the next there freely,” said Mr. Manley. borders, but there’s a high level example, basically immerses us to attack Biden four months month he has a seven point lead, When asked to predict the of anxiety of what’s going on to into a hyper-partisan context in before election day—he’s going and the month after that he has a tenor of Mr. Trump’s campaign the south,” said Mr. Graves. “I’ve the United States where people to look to smear and question the five-point lead, and there will be a against Democratic nominee and never seen Canadians so alarmed are exceptionally polarized.” integrity of Biden in the fall,” said narrative that he is losing support.” former vice-president Mr. Biden, about what’s going on with our Mr. Nanos said from a political Mr. Nanos, who added that poll- Mr. Manley said he “doesn’t think neighbours to the south, and this establishment perspective, our ing leading up to an election is a Social media will play a leopard changes its spots.” includes things like the Iraq War, federal party leaders should gov- tricky time for campaigns. “I look at him as somebody George W. Bush, but nothing even ern themselves in a way for us to “If you’re so far ahead, when a bigger role in this who is incapable what’s true close to the levels of concern that stay out of the debate that’s hap- the technical correction comes campaign compared to and what isn’t,” said Mr. Manley. we see right now.” pening in the United States—and to your true level of support, it’s “He just makes stuff up, and he Former prime minister Pierre “to not get immersed in what’s going to look like your losing 2016, says Senator Boehm defines a reality according to his Trudeau once characterized the going to be a very turbulent fall support and that your opponents Independent Senator Peter own purposes, so I think he’ll relationship between Canada and for the presidential election.” have momentum, when the reality Boehm (Ontario) said “in Canada, continue to do that.” the United States as “sleeping Mr. Nanos said that the presi- is you’re just artificially ahead we are always very avid observ- “The way I see the election next to an elephant.” dential campaign will be “as ugly right now.” ers of what is happening in the playing out, is that I don’t think “It appears that the elephant or uglier than last time because of The worst thing for U.S. Dem- U.S. electoral cycle, whether it’s he wins over anybody to his side now has rabies, and that does Donald Trump’s survival instinct.” ocratic presidential candidate Joe midterm elections or the big one that isn’t already with him, so I not make a comfortable bedfel- “We have to realize that the Biden is to show a massive lead that’s coming up in November,” think it all becomes a question of low,” said Mr. Graves. “What to do Trump strategy has never been against Trump, because the reality said Sen. Boehm. who shows up to vote,” said Mr. about it? It really is hard to say—I to get people to like him or to be is, that’s probably not his true “When I was posted in Wash- Manley. “For the Democrats, the don’t think most Canadians popular,” said Mr. Nanos. “The level of support, said Mr. Nanos. ington, during the Gore versus good thing is that Donald Trump have any confidence that Donald Trump strategy has always been “It just happens to be how peo- Bush election, the one that was really motivates their base.” Trump is going to turn things to suppress voter turnout for his ple feel today on Donald Trump,” won by the hanging chad and [email protected] around,” said Mr. Graves. opponents.” said Mr. Nanos. “If Biden has a eventually went to the Supreme The Hill Times THE HILL TIMES | MONDAY, JULY 20, 2020 21 News

Prime Minister Justin Trudeau WE scandal is being investigated by the federal ethics won’t shape next commissioner for the third time, after a charity with election, say close ties to him and his family was awarded a strategists, but sole-sourced contract that could have paid it up to say goodbye to $43-million. The Hill Times photograph by fall election talk Andrew Meade

“I don’t see that this is more said that WE had been sending early to say it whether it’s going Harper’s Conservatives subse- The WE scandal is a important and bigger in scope” emails to public servants before to have an impact,” Mr. Nanos told quently won a majority govern- than those scandals, said Mr. Mr. Trudeau’s announcement, The Hill Times in an interview last ment. problem for Justin Bélanger. proposing youth grant pro- week. That election was a lesson to Trudeau, but it Kevin Bosch, a vice-president grams similar to the one that Mr. “Whenever any kind of opposition parties, said Mr. Keller, at Hill and Knowlton Canada Trudeau later announced. controversy gets close to the that “what you might think is a ‘doesn’t stack up’ to and former deputy director of the Mr. Trudeau has volunteered PM, people take an interest, as driving force in the public’s mind Liberal research bureau, also said for the WE Charity in the past, opposed to something that’s may not translate when it comes Canadians’ concerns he did not believe the WE scandal and his wife, Sophie Grégoire distant. And that’s what Justin to election time.” would affect the outcome of the Trudeau, runs a podcast for the Trudeau has to watch out for: In this case, Mr. Trudeau’s about the COVID-19 next election. organization. WE Charity also the fact that it includes his government is fortunate that the “As someone who worked in paid to produce and distribute mother and his brother is about scandal is breaking during the pandemic, and how opposition research for a long online a video ad in 2017 that was as close as you can get without summer, and amid a pandemic, it is affecting them time, I don’t see the scandal,” he very similar in content and ap- Justin Trudeau being involved he said. “People are exhausted by said. pearance to a political campaign absolutely directly.” COVID.” personally, says Nik The WE story has created ad. Mr. Trudeau was the focal Still, the WE scandal “doesn’t None of the strategists who “perception issues” for the Liber- point of the 30-second ad, which stack up” to Canadians’ concerns spoke to The Hill Times thought Nanos. als, and Mr. Trudeau should have featured numerous images of his about the COVID-19 pandemic, the government would try to trig- recused himself from the decision face, and his voiceover pledging and how it is affecting them ger an election this year, nor did to award a sole-sourced contract Continued from page 1 to “work hard for all Canadians, personally, said Mr. Nanos. Like Mr. Nanos. to the charity, he said, but he and invest in our youngest lead- Mr. Norquay, he said the scandal “If there was speculation in minister and the party are disap- added, “I don’t see corruption ers.” will likely reinforce Mr. Trudeau’s terms of a fall election, this is a pointed, and perhaps frustrated. here.” Ethics Commissioner Mario unpopularity with those who big wet blanket to put on that,” People who don’t like the prime On July 9, Canadaland and the Dion has launched an investiga- already don’t like him, and disap- said Mr. Nanos. minister and his party are all the CBC reported that WE Charity tions into both Mr. Trudeau and point his supporters, “but those Mr. Norquay and Mr. Bosch more convinced that their judge- and its non-profit affiliate, Me to Finance Minister Bill Morneau supporters are still committed to both said the government should ment is solid, and has been justi- We, had paid roughly $300,000 (Toronto Centre, Ont.), who also the platform and vision that he disclose any relevant informa- fied. But I don’t think it’s going to in speaking fees to Prime Minis- did not recuse himself from the has for the country.” tion immediately, and that the move a bunch of votes,” said Geoff ter Trudeau’s mother, Margaret, cabinet decision to approve the The scandal has given the op- scandal will get worse if those Norquay, a consultant at Earn- and brother, Alexandre, during contract, and whose daughters position plenty to work with dur- facts are instead left for the scliffe Strategy Group and former the years in which he was prime also have connections to the ing the next election campaign, media to unearth and report high-level staffer to Conservative minister. charity. however, said Mr. Nanos. over time. prime minister Stephen Harper That news came after re- The Angus Reid Institute polled “They’re going to take this, “The information about fam- and Progressive Conservative ports that the government had 1,503 Canadian adults about their and there’ll be pictures of Justin ily members having been paid prime minister . decided to award a sole-sourced political preferences on July 10 Trudeau and his mother and his should have been found before “It is, and is going to be, pain- contract to the WE Charity to and 11 online. Exactly 50 per cent brother, dollar value amounts for [the press] said a word about it,” ful for the prime minister and his run a $900-million student grant of those polled said they approved speaking engagements, and then said Mr. Norquay. party,” said Mr. Norquay. “The gov- program on behalf of the gov- of Mr. Trudeau, down from 55 per the tendering process,” he said. “What keeps a crisis going is ernment has got to hope and pray ernment, which Diversity and cent in May. Mr. Trudeau still had “Probably the last week has its oxygen, and the oxygen comes that there are no more smoking Youth Minister the approval of significantly more felt like Christmas for the Conser- in the dribs and drabs of addition- guns set to emerge, or grenades (Waterloo, Ont.) said last week respondents than he had in rou- vatives, because they got a little al information coming out that set to go off on this particular would have earned the charity up tine Angus Reid polls before the bit of a gift.” has not been anticipated if you’re issue. to $43-million in compensation. COVID-19 pandemic, which often It’s too early to say how the trying to manage something,” said The WE scandal won’t impact Mr. Trudeau said the decision suggested he had the support of scandal will affect the next elec- Mr. Norquay. the outcome of the next election was made by public servants, fewer than 40 per cent of Canadi- tion, said Garry Keller, a vice- To make the most of the “as much as the opposition would who deemed that the WE Charity ans. Between February and April, president at StrategyCorp, and scandal, both Mr. Bélanger and like,” said Karl Bélanger, the alone—not other charities, or the when Mr. Trudeau’s government former chief of staff to interim Mr. Norquay said the opposi- president of Traxxion Strategies, government itself—was capable began to respond to the pandemic, Conservative Party leader Rona tion should continue to press for and former principal secretary to of delivering that grant program. his popularity rose from 33 per Ambrose. answers to any outstanding ques- ex-NDP leader Thomas Mulcair. Mr. Trudeau later said he did not cent to 54 per cent, according to Mr. Keller said the scandal tions related to any conflict of in- The next election is a ways off recuse himself from the cabinet Angus Reid Institute polls. All of could play out like the Liberal terest, wrongdoing, or bad judge- and Canadians remain more fo- decision to approve that contract. those polls were conducted online, sponsorship scandal in 2006, ment. It should not waste energy cused on the COVID-19 pandemic Rachel Wernick, the senior which means a margin for error forcing the government off its pursuing “irrelevant” aspects of than the WE scandal, he said. assistant deputy minister at cannot accurately be calculated preferred messaging and allow- the story, such as those primarily The scheduled fixed date for Employment and Social Develop- for them. ing the opposition parties to paint concerning the WE Charity itself, the next election is Monday, Oct. ment Canada, told MPs on the A Nanos Research poll it as a government with an ethics said Mr. Norquay. 16, 2023, but in a minority Parlia- House Finance Committee last conducted on July 10 found that problem—or, it could turn out like The opposition should contin- ment, it could happen before then. week that she and her department support for the Liberal Party itself the opposition parties’ attempt to ue to use House committees, and Prime Minister Justin Trudeau had indeed recommended WE as had not yet changed significantly punt the Harper government in their combined majority voting (Papineau, Que.) has been at the the only option for administering from where it stood before the 2011 over its refusal to provide power to summon witnesses and centre of other ethical scandals the grant program quickly. WE scandal began. That poll MPs with documents on the esti- documents and “build a case on in the past, including over his She said WE Charity co-found- suggested the Liberals had the mated cost of F-35 fighter jets and the government,” said Mr. Keller. vacation on the Aga Khan’s er Craig Kielburger sent her an support of 36 per cent of Canadi- other expenses. The opposition should not call private island and his attempts to unsolicited email that included a ans, roughly the same as it was That year, an opposition- for the prime minister’s resigna- influence the prosecution of SNC- detailed proposal for WE to run on July 3, and only slightly lower majority House committee found tion unless there are major new Lavalin on corruption charges. the program, just hours after Mr. than the 38 per cent approval the prime minister Stephen Harper’s developments in the scandal, said Mr. Trudeau’s Liberals still won Trudeau had announced that the party had in late June. government to be in contempt Mr. Bélanger and Mr. Keller. the last election, hanging on with government would roll out the “Are people taking an inter- of Parliament, and opposition [email protected] a minority government. student grant program. She also est? Absolutely. But it’s a little too parties triggered an election. Mr. The Hill Times 22 MONDAY, JULY 20, 2020 | THE HILL TIMES Feature Events

FRIDAY, AUG. 21 Conservative Party Leadership Contest—The federal Con- Parliamentary servative Party’s Leadership Election Organizing Commit- tee, also known as LEOC, announced on April 29 that Aug. 21 is the deadline for mail-in ballots, after the leadership Calendar was suspended on March 26 due to the global pandemic. The party says the winner will be announced once the bal- lots can be safely counted. WEDNESDAY, SEPT. 2 43rd FIPP World Media Congress—Susan Goldberg, editor-in-chief of National Geographic and editorial director of National Geographic Partners, is the latest speaker to be confirmed for the 43rd FIPP World Media Congress, which will take place online from Sept. 2-30. To find out more, www.fippcongress.com and online here. MPs return July MONDAY, SEPT. 21 House Sitting—The House is then scheduled to return 22 to meet as a in the fall on Monday, Sept. 21, for three straight weeks, as per the original House sitting calendar. committee of the TUESDAY, SEPT. 22 Senate Not Sitting—The Senate has adjourned until Sept. 22. whole in House THURSDAY, OCT. 15 MONDAY, JULY 20 PPF Testimonial Dinner and Awards—Join us at the 33rd annual event to network and celebrate as the Public House Not Sitting—The House has not met regu- Policy Forum honours Canadians who have made their larly since mid-March, when it was suspended amid the mark on policy and leadership. Anne McLellan and Senator COVID-19 pandemic. The regular summer recess was Peter Harder will take their place among a cohort of other scheduled to begin on June 24, but MPs agreed to meet as stellar Canadians who we’ve honoured over the last 33 a committee of the whole on July 8, July 22, Aug. 12, and years, people who have dedicated themselves to making Aug. 26. The House is then scheduled to return in the fall Canada a better place through policy leadership and public on Monday, Sept. 21, for three straight weeks, as per the service. The gala event will be held on Thursday, Oct. 15, original House sitting calendar. at the Metro Toronto Convention Centre, 255 Front St. W., Senate Not Sitting—The Senate has adjourned until Toronto. Sept. 22. 20th Alliance Against Trafficking in Persons—The SATURDAY, OCT. 24 Organization for Security and Co-operation in Europe and Parliamentary Press Gallery Dinner—The Parliamentary the Office of the Special Representative and Co-ordinator Press Gallery Dinner happens on Saturday, Oct. 24, in the for Combating Trafficking in Human Beings is holding this Sir John A. Macdonald Building on Wellington Street in online Zoom platform on ‘Ending Impunity: Delivering Ottawa. Justice Through Prosecuting Trafficking in Human Beings,’ July 20-22. Registration link: https://events.osce.org/2020- FRIDAY, OCT. 30 aat/registration CJF Awards Celebrating 30 Years of Excellence in Journal- THURSDAY, JULY 23 ism—The Canadian Journalism Foundation Awards will be held on Oct. 30, 2020, at the Ritz-Carlton, Toronto, hosted Canada, the World and the UN: A webinar with the new by , former host of The Rick Mercer Report. appointed ambassador Bob Rae. Following Canada’s loss The CBC’s Anna Maria Tremonti will be honoured. Tables at getting a seat on the UN Security Council, Canada has a are $7,500 and tickets are $750. For more information on new ambassador at a time when the UN and all multilateral tables and sponsorship opportunities, contact Josh Gurfin- organizations are being widely questioned and under threat. kel at [email protected] or 416-955-0394. Lester B. Pearson was Canada’s best known multilateralist and the Pearson Centre is examining what Canada can do TUESDAY, NOV. 3 to re-imagine multilateralism. The moderator will be An- U.S. Presidential Election—The U.S. presidential elec- drew Cohen, a Pearson board member, author and analyst. tion is scheduled for Tuesday, Nov. 3, 2020. U.S. President This webinar will take place on Thursday, July 23, at 2 pm. Donald Trump is the Republican candidate and former For more information: www.thepearsoncentre.ca vice-president Joe Biden is the presumptive Democratic The Future of Air Travel—The Edmonton Chamber of candidate. The winner is scheduled to be inaugurated on Commerce hosts a webinar on “The Future of Air Travel,” Jan. 20, 2021. exploring the future of business travel, managing travel restrictions, recovery plans, and the outlook for Edmonton, THURSDAY, NOV. 12 Western Canada, and tourism. Speakers include Ferio Pug- Liberal Party National Convention—The Liberal Party of liese, senior vice-president, Air Canada Express and Gov- Canada announced the 2020 Liberal National Convention ernment Relations; and Tom Ruth, president of Edmonton will be hosted in Ottawa, from Nov. 12-15. For more infor- International Airport. Thursday, July 23, from 10 a.m.-11 mation, please contact: [email protected], 613-627-2384. a.m. Register online. Please confirm your attendance by Wednesday, July 22, at 4 p.m. FRIDAY, NOV. 13 Mastering the Elements of Clear Political Communica- Bridging Divides in Wake of a Global Pandemic—The tion—Ryerson University hosts a webinar, “Cutting through University of Victoria (UVic) and the are the Noise: Mastering the Elements of Clear Political Com- bringing together change-makers at the Victoria Forum to munication,” featuring Alison Broddle, managing editor of help generate solutions to some of the world’s most divisive digital content at the CBC; and Elamin Abdelmahmoud, problems. The two-day virtual forum will be held Nov. 13- news curation editor with BuzzFeed News and a columnist 14 to examine issues that fall under the theme of “Bridging for CBC Radio’s Q. Thursday, July 23, from 3:30-5 p.m. divides in the wake of a global pandemic.” The forum will Register for the Zoom event via Ryerson. draw on emerging trends and lessons learned from the WEDNESDAY, JULY 29 COVID-19 pandemic through biweekly webinars. For more information or to register, visit www.victoriaforum.ca. Brian Mulroney Will Discuss To Discuss His ‘Agenda The Parliamentary Calendar is a free events listing. for Canadian Greatness’—The former prime minister will Send in your political, cultural, diplomatic, or governmental discuss his 10 big ideas for the future of Canada that event in a paragraph with all the relevant details under the address major social and economic challenges, including subject line ‘Parliamentary Calendar’ to news@hilltimes. combating racism, Indigenous equality and a free trade com by Wednesday at noon before the Monday paper or by agreement for the Americas. Hosted by the Pearson Centre, Friday at noon for the Wednesday paper. We can’t guaran- the moderator will be Brian Gallant, a Pearson advisory tee inclusion of every event, but we will definitely do our board member and former . This best. Events can be updated daily online, too. webinar will take place at 3 p.m. on Wednesday, July 29. The Hill Times For more information: www.thepearsoncentre.ca FRIDAY, JULY 31—SATURDAY, AUG. 8 #CanadaPerforms at RBC Bluesfest Drive-In—The National Arts Centre and RBC Bluesfest are pleased to Extra! Extra! announce they are coming together to present #Canada- Performs at RBC Bluesfest Drive-In, a summer weekend Read the full series of live concerts at the Place des Festivals Zibi site, by the Kitchissippi River (Ottawa River). Concert-goers, as Parliamentary small pods or families, will be encouraged to drive to the site and watch live concerts from their individual dedicated Calendar space. In order to safely welcome back audiences to watch live concerts, the Drive-In series will offer a physical dis- online tancing experience that respects reopening measures and protocols. Canadians will also be able to watch online the live-streamed concerts. Concerts will take place on Friday, July 31, Saturday, Aug. 1, Friday, Aug. 7, and Saturday, Aug. 8. Tickets on sale now. For the details, including additional dates and performers, go to: canadaperforms. ottawabluesfest.ca/ THE HILL TIMES | MONDAY, JULY 20, 2020 23 Feature A quiet summer day in the Parliamentary Precinct

It’s been four months since Ottawa was virtually locked down, but it’s slowly creeping back to life. The Hill Times’ photographer Andrew Meade captured scenes from the Hill and the neighbourhood on Wednesday, July 15.

This way to the West Block. The iconic Centre Block is closed for a major, multi-billion- dollar renovation project, expected to be finished in a decade, at least.

Passersby, pictured walking up Wellington Street and past the Peace Tower and Centre Block.

Hill construction workers pictured working on the Hill.

A woman, wearing a protective face shield, pictured walking past the Bank of Canada on Wellington Street.

Do not enter, indeed.

It’s quite the backdrop, Martha. People pictured taking a break on the front lawn of the Construction workers shoot the breeze while working on Parliament Hill. building and next to the Justice Building. Stay connected to decision-makers Inside Ottawa & Inside Canada Inside Now in stock Ottawa Directory Save time, have all political phone numbers and email addresses at your fingertips. Inside Ottawa includes: • Federal riding profiles • MP contact details, both Hill and constituency • House committee clerks and membership • Senators’ contact details and committee membership • Current photos in colour • Prime Minister’s Office and Privy Council Office staff contacts • Ministers’ offices staff contacts • Speaker’s office contacts • Committee charts with current photos • List of shadow cabinet and opposition critics • Key political, government and media contacts • Sitting calendar 2020 • Renumeration • Session tip sheet

Inside Canada includes: Contacts for every Province and Territorial Government: • Legislature key contacts 2020 • Members of the Legislative Assembly with photos • Cabinet ministers’ executive departments • Party and Government Posts (ministers and critics) • Opposition contacts • Agencies of Parliament • Media contacts • Remuneration • Committees members and clerks • Sitting calendars for 2020 • Seat breakdown by province • Next election forecast

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