In the middle of the Canadian winter, February 14th comes along and I wish you all a Happy Valentine’s Day!

Trudeau Liberals Cover-Up SNC-Lavalin Affair

Reports that Justin Trudeau’s Prime Minister’s Office pressured the former Attorney General Jody Wilson-Raybould to get involved in a criminal prosecution have raised alarming concerns over the conduct of Trudeau and his office. The Leader of Canada’s Conservatives, Andrew Scheer has written to the Prime Minister calling on him to immediately waive solicitor-client privilege. PM Trudeau must preserve all documents relating to the ongoing SNC-Lavalin Affair after the cabinet resignation of Jody Wilson-Raybould. Conservative MPs also convened an emergency meeting of the Justice Committee to investigate these serious allegations. Unfortunately, the Liberals blocked all attempts at accountability. These actions by the Liberals at committee clearly indicate they are solely interested in protecting the Prime Minister and this cover up, rather than getting to the truth. Conservatives will now explore legal and law enforcement options to hold Justin Trudeau accountable for this coverup and get Canadians the answers they deserve.

Vice-Admiral Mark Norman Case

This past Monday, Vice-Admiral Mark Norman’s defence team also alleged that the Prime Minister’s Office (PMO) has been attempting to direct the prosecution in the breach of trust case against him. These allegations are deeply concerning. This is the second time in recent weeks that allegations of political interference in legal proceedings by the PMO have been made. Conservatives have said from the start that the prosecution of Vice-Admiral Mark Norman, as well as his suspension and removal as Vice-Chief of Defence Staff, appears to be politically-motivated. The Prime Minister must release the documents that Norman’s defence team have requested so he can be properly and fairly defended.

Fast-Tracking Refugee Claims

Earlier this month it was reported that more than 64,000 asylum seekers in Canada waiting for their cases to be heard could be eligible for a new fast-tracked approach to processing refugee claims. The Immigration and Refugee Board’s (IRB) new procedures affect “less complex” cases where the claimant wouldn’t need to appear in person before a refugee judge. This new short-hearing process is only supposed to take two hours or less. Canada’s Conservatives support an orderly, fair and compassionate immigration system that both protects the world’s vulnerable and the integrity of our borders. The goal of the IRB should be to ensure full diligence in the review of asylum claimants, NOT to fill a quota. Canada wouldn’t be in this position if it wasn’t for the huge backlogs created by the Prime Minister’s illegal border crossing mess.

Did you know?

1. Before leaving Canada, check the Travel Advice and Advisories for in-depth information on your destination and register with the Registration of Canadians Abroad for latest updates in case of an emergency abroad or at home. I also have quick links posted on my website HERE.

2. February marks Black History Month. For events near you, check out your local municipal events page to see what celebrations are taking place. Also, Uncle Tom’s Cabin in Dresden will be open on Family Day, Feb. 18th, so please consider taking time that day to explore this important part of our Canadian History.