Prime Minister Justin Trudeau speaks with Louise Arbour, United Nations Special Representative for International Migration
December 14, 2018
Ottawa, Ontario
Prime Minister Justin Trudeau spoke today with Louise Arbour in her capacity as the United Nations Special Representative for International Migration.
The Prime Minister congratulated Ms. Arbour for the successful conclusion of the Intergovernmental Conference to Adopt the Global Compact for Safe, Orderly, and Regular Migration, held in Marrakesh, Morocco on December 10-11, 2018.
Prime Minister Trudeau reaffirmed Canada’s support for the Compact, recognizing the importance of this global agreement that sets out important principles that will help guide countries to better manage the opportunities and challenges associated with global migration movements.
The Prime Minister thanked Ms. Arbour for her personal leadership and dedication on migration issues—an example of the important contribution being made by Canadians working within the multilateral system to respond to some of the most pressing challenges in the world today.
Prime Minister Justin Trudeau speaks with Armenian Prime Minister-elect Nikol Pashinyan
December 14, 2018
Ottawa, Ontario
Today the Prime Minister, Justin Trudeau, spoke with the Prime Minister-elect of Armenia, Nikol Pashinyan.
Prime Minister Trudeau congratulated Prime Minister-elect Pashinyan on his victory in Armenia’s parliamentary elections on December 9. The leaders discussed the importance of free and fair democratic elections and the rule of law.
The two leaders noted the warm relationship between Canada and Armenia, and looked forward to deepening and strengthening bilateral cooperation and partnership, including in areas such as infrastructure investment.
Prime Minister Justin Trudeau meets with Prime Minister Jean-Henry Céant of Haiti
December 13, 2018
Ottawa, Ontario
Today, the Prime Minister met with Prime Minister Jean-Henry Céant of Haiti. The leaders discussed the current situation in Haiti and how to ensure that sustainable solutions are found. Prime Minister Trudeau also took the opportunity to convey his support for current efforts of the Haitian government to promote political dialogue.
The Prime Ministers reiterated the close people-to-people ties between the two countries and discussed Canada’s deep and longstanding commitment to Haiti. They also exchanged views on strategies for creating jobs and generating economic growth that works for everyone, following on Prime Minister Céant’s participation in the Toronto Global Forum yesterday.
Prime Minister announces appointment of new Associate Chief Justice of the Federal Court
December 13, 2018
Ottawa, Ontario
The Prime Minister, Justin Trudeau, today announced the appointment of the Honourable Jocelyne Gagné, a judge of the Federal Court, as Associate Chief Justice of the Federal Court.
Justice Gagné fills a new position for the Federal Court, created to assist in managing a growing and increasingly complex caseload.
Quote
“I wish Jocelyne Gagné every success as the new Associate Chief Justice of the Federal Court. With six years of service as a judge, as well as extensive experience in commercial and civil litigation, I know she will serve Canadians well in this new role.”
—The Rt. Hon. Justin Trudeau, Prime Minister of Canada
Quick Facts
- Justice Gagné was appointed to the Federal Court on May 31, 2012.
- The new Associate Chief Justice position within the Federal Court was authorized under Bill C-74, the Budget Implementation Act, 2018, No.1.
- Chief Justices and Associate Chief Justices in Canada are responsible for the leadership and administration of their courts. They also serve as members of the Canadian Judicial Council, which works to improve the quality of judicial service in the superior courts of Canada.
- Chief Justices and Associate Chief Justices are appointed by the Governor General, on the advice of Cabinet and the recommendation of the Prime Minister.
- The Federal Court is Canada’s national trial court. The Court hears and decides legal disputes arising in the federal domain, including claims against the Government of Canada, civil suits in federally regulated areas, and challenges to the decisions of federal tribunals.
Biographical Notes
- The Honourable Jocelyne Gagné
- Statement by the Prime Minister on the birthday of His Highness the Aga Khan
December 13, 2018
Ottawa, Ontario
The Prime Minister, Justin Trudeau, today issued the following statement marking the birthday of His Highness Prince Karim Aga Khan:
“Today, we join Shia Ismaili Muslims across Canada and around the world to celebrate the 82nd birthday of their spiritual leader, His Highness the Aga Khan.
“His Highness is a global humanitarian leader and an ambassador for pluralism and peace. For over fifty years, he has worked tirelessly to reduce poverty, advance gender equality, and champion healthcare and education for the most vulnerable.
“His dedication to bridge building and message of compassion offers a way forward. He reminds us all of our common humanity, and that the measure of success is not what we achieve for ourselves, but what we do for others.
“The Aga Khan and Canada share a special bond, epitomized by the vibrant Ismaili community that calls this country home. We have long championed the same values – respect for diversity, openness to others, generosity of heart – and work every day toward a more caring, peaceful, and inclusive world. We are proud to have bestowed honorary Canadian citizenship on the Aga Khan, and honoured to host to both the Aga Khan Museum in Toronto and the Global Centre for Pluralism in Ottawa.
“Today, Sophie and I thank the Aga Khan for setting a tremendous example for us all, and wish him health and happiness on this special day.”
Prime Minister announces the appointment of four senators
December 12, 2018
Ottawa, Ontario
The Prime Minister, Justin Trudeau, today announced that the Governor General appointed the following independent senators to fill vacancies in the Senate:
- Margaret Dawn Anderson (Northwest Territories)
- Pat Duncan (Yukon)
- Dr. Stanley Kutcher (Nova Scotia)
- Dr. Rosemary Moodie (Ontario)
Ms. Anderson is a proud Inuvialuk who has been a public servant with the Government of the Northwest Territories for more than 20 years, working with communities and Indigenous peoples across the territory. She is an active member of her community who has devoted much of her professional and personal life to improving the territorial justice system.
Ms. Duncan is a former premier of Yukon, with extensive experience in business and public service. Ms. Duncan has also been an active volunteer in her community and is heavily involved with sports in the Yukon.
Dr. Kutcher is a renowned expert in adolescent mental health and a leader in mental health research, advocacy, training, and policy development, who has been involved in mental health work in over 20 countries.
Dr. Moodie has made significant contributions to reduce social inequities and health disparities among children and communities locally and internationally. She currently works as a neonatologist at Toronto’s Hospital for Sick Children and as a clinical teacher at the University of Toronto’s Department of Paediatrics.
These individuals were recommended by the Independent Advisory Board for Senate Appointments and chosen using the process open to all Canadians. Since this process has been in place, the proportion of women in the Senate has increased from 37 per cent to 47 per cent, and the number of senators who identify as Indigenous has more than doubled. With these appointments, all Senate vacancies have now been filled.
Quotes
“These four new independent senators bring with them a wealth of knowledge and experience that will greatly benefit Parliament and all of Canada. They know what it means to serve, and have dedicated their careers to making a difference in the lives of others. I look forward to working with them on issues that matter most to Canadians.”
—The Rt. Hon. Justin Trudeau, Prime Minister of Canada
“I thank all members of the Independent Advisory Board for Senate Appointments for their excellent work. Their recommendations have helped us appoint senators who reflect Canada’s diversity, who will make significant contributions to the work of Parliament, and who will ensure a high standard of integrity, collaboration, and non-partisanship in the Red Chamber.”
—The Rt. Hon. Justin Trudeau, Prime Minister of Canada
Quick Facts
- The Senate now has a full complement of 105 Senators – the first time in eight years.
- There have been 49 appointments to the Senate made on the advice of Prime Minister Justin Trudeau.
- Under the Canadian Constitution, the Governor General appoints individuals to the Senate. By convention, Senators are appointed on the advice of the Prime Minister.
- Once appointed by the Governor General and summoned to the Senate, the new senators join their peers to examine and revise legislation, investigate national issues, and represent regional, provincial, and minority interests – important functions in a modern democracy.
Biographical Notes
Associated Links
Prime Minister Trudeau meets with David Beasley, Executive Director of the World Food Programme
December 12, 2018
Ottawa, Ontario
Yesterday, Prime Minister Trudeau met with the Executive Director of the World Food Programme (WFP), David Beasley. Canada is a longstanding partner of the WFP in support of their efforts to deliver food assistance in emergencies and build resilience against food insecurity.
Mr. Beasley provided the Prime Minister with an update on current humanitarian crises, including in Yemen and the challenges facing the Rohingya. The Prime Minister noted Canada’s commitment of $300 million over three years in funding to address the urgent needs of the Rohingya, and $130 million of life-saving humanitarian aid to affected communities in Yemen since 2015. The WFP is a trusted partner in delivering on these commitments.
They discussed the importance of gender-responsive humanitarian programming and the Prime Minister thanke
Statement by the Prime Minister on Human Rights Day
December 10, 2018
Ottawa, Ontario
The Prime Minister, Justin Trudeau, today issued the following statement on Human Rights Day:
“Today on Human Rights Day, we celebrate the progress we have made as a global community to advance human rights. We also reflect on what more we can do as a country and as individuals to ensure that every single person – here in Canada and around the world – can live a life with dignity and respect.
“On this day, seventy years ago, the United Nations General Assembly adopted the Universal Declaration of Human Rights. This milestone document declares that all human beings are born free and equal in dignity and rights, no matter their identity, beliefs, or circumstances. Today, we proudly recognize the important contributions made by Canadian John Humphrey, who helped draft the original declaration.
“Canada is unwavering in its commitment to protect and promote human rights. We will not stand idle while hundreds of thousands of people around the world suffer gross human rights violations, nor will we hesitate to condemn violations of human rights, regardless of where they take place.
“At home, we are working hard to build a country where all Canadians are free and safe to be themselves, and can go as far as their dreams will take them. We continue to take concrete measures to fight racism and discrimination based on sexual orientation, gender identity, and gender expression. We will keep taking meaningful actions to advance reconciliation with Indigenous peoples, and continue to work hard to put an end to human trafficking.
“Last month, we also delivered an apology regarding the fate of the MS St. Louis and its passengers who were refused refuge in Canada. Measures like this cannot rewrite history or undo the harm of past actions, but they are vital for us to move forward together, as a more diverse, just, and inclusive country.
“On the 70th anniversary of the Universal Declaration of Human Rights, I encourage all Canadians to join me to thank those around the world who work hard every day – often at grave personal risk – to advance human rights and protect the world’s most vulnerable.
“Standing up for human rights starts with our everyday actions – respecting people’s differences, speaking up for others, and speaking out against those who foment hate and seek to divide us. Human rights are universal and fundamental – and so is our responsibility to protect them.”
First Ministers meet to discuss economic growth and jobs for Canadians
December 7, 2018
Montréal, Quebec
Canada’s First Ministers met today to discuss ways to strengthen economic growth and create jobs for the middle class by diversifying Canada’s international trade, promoting clean growth, and strengthening trade between provinces and territories.
Following the meeting, First Ministers issued the following joint communiqué:
“Today First Ministers discussed ways to collaborate to help grow the economy and protect the environment, reduce red-tape, create opportunities for small and medium-sized business, and improve the everyday lives of Canadians.
First Ministers discussed the need to diversify trade and the importance of working together to strengthen alignment of federal, provincial and territorial measures to create jobs. First Ministers agreed to continue to work together to develop complementary initiatives to strengthen the competitiveness of the Canadian economy and to help businesses grow.
First Ministers discussed how the new North American Free Trade Agreement will create jobs, strengthen economic ties, and expand Canada’s trade in North America. First Ministers agreed on the need to resolve the question of softwood lumber and steel and aluminum tariffs, and to ensure that the federal government supports and fully compensates the supply managed sector.
As First Ministers, we have agreed to collaborate on ways to promote clean growth while growing the economy. As a next step, First Ministers agreed to lead a discussion on the development of a framework for a clean electric future, including hydroelectricity, aimed at using clean, reliable and affordable electricity and to promote access to domestic and international markets. First Ministers also agreed on the necessity to ensure all projects have social responsibility and are supported by a science-based process. First Ministers also agreed on the importance of getting remote communities off diesel.
First Ministers agreed that interested jurisdictions could explore opportunities for utility corridors in Canada.
First Ministers discussed the challenges facing Canada’s energy sector. They noted that the current price discount on energy products costs the Canadian economy tens of billions of dollars and therefore there should be a focus on addressing the problem. All governments support the goal of ensuring that every barrel of Canadian oil gets its full value and that we support jobs and families impacted by the price differential. First Ministers agree that the federal government needs to invest in short-term support for energy sectors impacted by the differential, medium-term efforts to get energy products to market, and long-term efforts to build energy infrastructure that will expand markets and that will reduce the cost of shipping.
A clean and healthy environment is an objective shared by all First Ministers. First Ministers expressed a difference of opinion on Canada’s approach to putting a price on pollution. First Ministers also agreed to share information and work collaboratively to ensure that the implementation of proposed changes to how major projects are assessed respect provincial, territorial and federal jurisdiction and strive for the goal of “one project, one review.” First Ministers also agreed that continued collaboration and meaningful engagement is important, including on supporting regulations and policies, to support business certainty and to ensure that good projects go forward in a clear, timely and transparent process.
First Ministers also agreed on the importance of strengthening trade between provinces and territories in order to foster economic growth and improve the everyday lives of Canadians. As First Ministers, we agreed to accelerate work to address domestic barriers to trade that increase business costs and impose needless burden on Canadian firms.
The Canadian Free Trade Agreement came into force in July 2017. Since that time, we have taken important steps to ensure that the Agreement reduces barriers to the free movement of persons, goods, services and investments within Canada. Today, we are committing to take bold steps to further strengthen Canada’s economic union.
Specifically, we have agreed to:
- Develop harmonized standards in the trucking sector, building on federal investments in the National Trade and Transportation Corridors initiative. Federal, provincial and territorial governments will work together on an accelerated basis to harmonize standards for wide base tires, electronic logging devices, and size and weight restrictions.
- Take action to strengthen Canada’s agri-food sector, including clearer rules for organic products, and eliminating the duplication of food oversight and safety. The Government of Canada will also continue to work collaboratively with the territories to support their food industries and build food security.
- Consult industry and consumers to develop ways to facilitate the sale of alcoholic beverages, taking into consideration social responsibility obligations. As a first step, Canada will consider amendments to the Importation of Intoxicating Liquors Act to remove the federal requirement that alcohol moving from one province to another be sold or consigned to a provincial liquor authority.
- Accelerate work to strengthen the Canadian Free Trade Agreement, including a plan to reduce the number of exceptions and strengthen the dispute resolution provisions.
Trade within Canada creates jobs, helps Canadian businesses expand, and increases economic growth across the country. We have the opportunity to protect Canada against the uncertainties of the global economy and work together to have a real and positive impact on the competitiveness of Canadian businesses and the everyday lives of Canadians.”
The Prime Minister announces changes in the senior ranks of the Public Service
December 7, 2018
Ottawa, Ontario
The Prime Minister, Justin Trudeau, today announced the following changes in the senior ranks of the Public Service:
Andrea Lyon, currently Deputy Clerk of the Privy Council and Associate Secretary to the Cabinet, becomes Senior Advisor to the Privy Council Office, effective January 7, 2019, until her retirement from the Public Service at the end of January 2019.
Catherine Blewett, currently Deputy Minister of Fisheries and Oceans, becomes Deputy Clerk of the Privy Council and Associate Secretary to the Cabinet, effective January 7, 2019.
Timothy Sargent, currently Deputy Minister for International Trade, becomes Deputy Minister of Fisheries and Oceans, effective January 7, 2019.
John Hannaford, currently Foreign and Defence Policy Advisor to the Prime Minister, becomes Deputy Minister for International Trade, effective January 7, 2019.
David Morrison, currently Associate Deputy Minister of Foreign Affairs and Personal Representative of the Prime Minister (Sherpa) for the G7 Summit, becomes Foreign and Defence Policy Advisor to the Prime Minister, effective January 7, 2019 and retains his role as Personal Representative of the Prime Minister (Sherpa) for the G7 Summit.
Ron Parker, currently President of Shared Services Canada, becomes Senior Advisor to the Privy Council Office, effective December 17, 2018. Mr. Parker will join the Rotman School of Management at the University of Toronto as Visiting Senior Public Policy Fellow until his retirement from the Public Service in February 2019.
Paul Glover, currently President of the Canadian Food Inspection Agency, becomes President of Shared Services Canada, effective January 7, 2019.
The Prime Minister took the opportunity to congratulate both Andrea Lyon, Deputy Clerk of the Privy Council, and Ron Parker, President of Shared Services Canada, on their upcoming retirements in January and February 2019. The Prime Minister thanked them for their many distinguished accomplishments over the course of their careers and noted their dedication and commitment in serving Canadians.
Biographical notes
Prime Minister meets with National Indigenous Leaders and First Ministers
December 7, 2018
Montréal, Quebec
The Prime Minister, Justin Trudeau, today met with national Indigenous leaders and hosted a meeting of First Ministers with national Indigenous leaders.
The Prime Minister first met privately with National Chief of the Assembly of First Nations Perry Bellegarde, President of Inuit Tapiriit Kanatami Natan Obed, and President of the Métis National Council Clément Chartier. The national Indigenous leaders spoke to the Prime Minister about their respective socio-economic priorities for First Nations, Inuit, and Métis peoples.
The three national Indigenous leaders then attended a meeting of First Ministers hosted by the Prime Minister. First Ministers and Indigenous leaders discussed opportunities for concrete federal, provincial, and territorial actions to support economic development, growth, and prosperity for Indigenous communities and businesses.
In his opening remarks, the Prime Minister stressed that the economic inclusion of Indigenous peoples is fundamental to Canada’s future. He also noted that the economic growth and prosperity of Indigenous peoples is integral to reconciliation and essential for the self-determination of Indigenous communities.
After an open discussion among First Ministers and the national Indigenous leaders, the Prime Minister closed the meeting by highlighting that economic reconciliation with Indigenous peoples will require partnerships with federal, provincial, territorial, and Indigenous governments, as well as collaboration between Indigenous communities, all orders of government, and the private sector.
Today’s meetings with the national Indigenous leaders are in addition to the Permanent Bilateral Mechanisms with the Assembly of First Nations and First Nations, the Inuit Tapiriit Kanatami and the four Inuit Nunangat Regions, and the Métis National Council and its governing members.
Prime Minister announces investment in artificial intelligence to create over 16,000 jobs for Canadians
December 6, 2018
Montréal, Quebec
The Prime Minister, Justin Trudeau, today announced an investment of up to nearly $230 million for the AI-Powered Supply Chains Supercluster (SCALE.AI) based in Quebec. The investment is expected to create more than 16,000 jobs and add more than $16 billion to our economy over 10 years. The funding will be matched dollar-for-dollar by private sector partners. The government of Québec also announced an investment of $60 million to support the initiative.
SCALE.AI brings the retail, manufacturing, transportation, infrastructure, and information and communications technology sectors together to build intelligent supply chains through artificial intelligence and robotics. This supercluster is helping Canadian small and medium-sized businesses take advantage of new opportunities, and positioning Canada as a global export leader.
The Prime Minister made the announcement while delivering remarks at the G7 Multistakeholder Conference on Artificial Intelligence in Montréal, Quebec. The conference brought together over 150 technology leaders, academic experts, members of civil society, and government officials from G7 countries, including Minister of Innovation, Science and Economic Development Navdeep Bains, France's Secretary of State for Digital Affairs Mounir Mahjoubi, and Quebec’s Minister of Economy and Innovation Pierre Fitzgibbon. Together, they discussed the opportunities and challenges that stem from advancements in artificial intelligence, and explored ways to collaborate on the responsible use of artificial intelligence and harness its economic and social potential.
During the conference, Prime Minister Trudeau, alongside Minister Bains and Secretary Mahjoubi, discussed the International Panel on Artificial Intelligence being created by Canada and France, which will become a global point of reference for understanding and sharing research results on artificial intelligence. The Panel will support and guide the responsible development of artificial intelligence that is grounded in human rights, inclusion, diversity, innovation, and economic growth. It will also facilitate international collaboration with the scientific community, industry, civil society, related international organizations, and governments.
Prime Minister Trudeau also highlighted the Government of Canada’s $950 million support for the Innovation Superclusters Initiative. The investment is expected to create more than 50,000 middle class jobs and grow Canada’s economy by $50 billion over the next 10 years.
Artificial intelligence has the potential to unlock unprecedented social and economic benefits, and keep our workers and our industries competitive in a rapidly changing economy. As a global leader in innovation, Canada is harnessing new technologies like artificial intelligence to shape a better future for all our citizens.
Quotes
“Today’s announcement is an important step toward making Canada an export and AI leader. Our government launched an ambitious strategy to keep this sector competitive in the long term, and support Canada’s innovators. Together, we can build an innovation economy – one that benefits everyone and provides new opportunities for the middle class to succeed.”
—The Rt. Hon. Justin Trudeau, Prime Minister of Canada
“From farmers increasing their crop yield to citizens accessing health services, artificial intelligence has the potential to improve the life of every Canadian. Our government's focus is providing businesses with the support they need to thrive and create jobs, equipping Canadians with the tools to seize these opportunities, and ensuring AI advancements reflect Canadians' values.”
—The Hon. Navdeep Bains, Minister of Innovation, Science and Economic Development
“With our ‘AI for Humanity’ strategy, France is positioning itself as a global leader in artificial intelligence, with a particular emphasis on the ethical issues it raises on the world stage. With Canada, we are proud to have laid the groundwork for the International Panel on Artificial Intelligence, and we invite researchers, businesses, international organizations, and countries that share our values to join us. Together, we will ensure that artificial intelligence is at the service of all of humanity.”
— Mounir Mahjoubi, Secretary of State for Digital Affairs for France
“Our open and innovative society, which values research and excellence, allows cutting-edge sectors like artificial intelligence to reach critical milestones in their development today. Thanks to the mobilization of an unprecedented network of researchers and partners, and the government support announced today, supply chains will be transformed, and we may also potentially usher in a new chapter in Quebec's economic history. We are proud to contribute to the activities of Canada’s artificial intelligence supply chain supercluster, SCALE.AI. The most recent scientific and technological advances in artificial intelligence will benefit many companies in many industrial sectors, immediately positioning them as key players in the economy of tomorrow.”
— Pierre Fitzgibbon, Minister of Economy and Innovation for Quebec
Quick Facts
- The Innovation Superclusters Initiative is a centrepiece of the Government of Canada’s Innovation and Skills Plan, a multi-year strategy to prepare Canada for the innovative jobs of today and tomorrow.
- Canada’s five superclusters – the Digital Technology Supercluster, the Protein Industries Canada Supercluster, the Next Generation Manufacturing Supercluster (NGen), the AI-Powered Supply Chains Supercluster (SCALE.AI), and the Ocean Supercluster – promote collaboration between individuals, businesses, and post-secondary institutions across the country.
- Together, the five superclusters represent more than 450 businesses, 60 post-secondary institutions and 180 other participants in sectors covering 78 percent of Canada’s economy.
- Last year, Canada launched a $125 million Pan-Canadian Artificial Intelligence Strategy to retain and attract top academic talent, and to increase the number of post-graduate trainees and researchers studying artificial intelligence and deep learning.
- The International Panel on Artificial Intelligence is a key outcome of the Canada-France Statement on Artificial Intelligence announced by Prime Minister Trudeau and the President of France Emmanuel Macron prior to the G7 Summit this past June.
- Under Canada’s 2018 G7 presidency, Canada has advanced a common vision on Artificial Intelligence, which the G7 Innovation Ministers set out in their Statement on Artificial Intelligence at their meeting in Montreal on March 27-28. The G7 Leaders also set it out in the Charlevoix Common Vision for the Future of Artificial Intelligence during their meeting in Charlevoix on June 8-9, 2018.
