September 9, 2019
Ottawa, Ontario
The Prime Minister, Justin Trudeau, today announced the following appointment:
The Honourable Marie Deschamps, C.C. becomes a member of the National Security and Intelligence Review Agency (NSIRA), effective September 30, 2019.
With full and independent authority, the NSIRA works to ensure that Canada’s national security agencies are complying with the law and that their actions are reasonable and necessary.
Biographical Notes
Associated Link
Statement by the Prime Minister on International Literacy Day
September 8, 2019
Ottawa, Ontario
The Prime Minister, Justin Trudeau, today issued the following statement on International Literacy Day:
“Today, on International Literacy Day, we highlight the importance of literacy and recognize people around the world who are helping make education a reality for all.
“This year’s theme, ‘Literacy and Multilingualism,’ encourages us to promote linguistic diversity – and reminds us that we need to do more to make sure everyone has access to learning in the language they speak or understand. Literacy skills are building blocks that help us create a better future. They give us the tools and independence we need to succeed – and no one should face barriers to these skills based on the language they speak.
“Education empowers people – yet not everyone around the world has the opportunity to go to school. That is why Canada helped deliver a historic investment in education for women and girls in conflict and crisis situations, and welcomed additional contributions to help developing countries provide every child with access to quality education and modern skills training. By helping communities around the world teach the next generation, we can create a better tomorrow for all of us.
“At home, the Government of Canada is taking important steps to make sure all Canadians have the education they need to thrive – education that reflects Canada’s cultural and linguistic diversity. This year, we mark the 50th anniversary of the Official Languages Act, and celebrate the bilingualism at our country’s core. We will continue to support education in official language minority communities and second official language education across the country. The Government of Canada has also worked closely with Indigenous peoples to co-develop legislation to support the efforts of Indigenous peoples to reclaim, revitalize, maintain, and strengthen Indigenous languages. By protecting these languages, we are working together to support and promote the use of Indigenous languages, and to advance the self-determination of the Indigenous peoples who speak them.
“Supporting quality and inclusive education opens the door to new opportunities and a better quality of life for everyone. This year, we introduced funding to close gaps in education for First Nations communities and make sure Indigenous communities have access to affordable post-secondary education. We also modernized the Youth Employment and Skills Strategy to help all young Canadians gain the experience they need to prepare for the jobs of today and tomorrow.
“On behalf of the Government of Canada, I thank everyone who works tirelessly to improve literacy and access to education. Whether it’s reading kids a bedtime story, helping teens with their homework, or spending time at the library, we can all take steps to promote literacy in our communities.”
Prime Minister Justin Trudeau speaks with the Prime Minister of New Zealand, Jacinda Ardern
September 5, 2019
Toronto, Ontario
Today, the Prime Minister, Justin Trudeau, spoke with Jacinda Ardern, Prime Minister of New Zealand.
The prime ministers discussed progress in the implementation of the Christchurch Call to Action and the importance of countering violent extremist and terrorist use of the internet.
The leaders also discussed relations with China and the current situation in Hong Kong and shared perspectives on climate change and WTO reform.
The prime ministers agreed to remain in close contact and to work together to advance issues of common interest.
Prime Minister announces new Lieutenant Governor for New Brunswick
September 5, 2019
Ottawa, Ontario
The Prime Minister, Justin Trudeau, today announced the appointment of Brenda Murphy as the new Lieutenant Governor of New Brunswick.
A long-time social justice advocate, Ms. Murphy has dedicated her life to serving the public, advancing gender equality, and ending poverty. She led a women’s empowerment network in her province for two decades, and has served on advisory councils on poverty and the status of women at the federal and provincial levels. She also served her community for three terms as a municipal councillor.
As a volunteer, Ms. Murphy has worked with a variety of organizations and councils supporting housing, justice, and equality for women. Her appointment follows that of the former Lieutenant Governor, the Honourable Jocelyne Roy Vienneau, who passed away last month following a battle with cancer.
Quote
“Ms. Murphy has decades of experience advancing gender equality and helping to lift people out of poverty. I know she will continue to make important contributions to the future of her province and our country, and serve the people of New Brunswick well as their new Lieutenant Governor.”
The Rt. Hon. Justin Trudeau, Prime Minister of Canada
Quick Facts
- Lieutenant Governors are the personal representatives of Her Majesty The Queen of Canada in their respective provinces. They fulfill the roles and functions of The Queen, including granting Royal Assent to provincial laws, and visiting communities.
- Lieutenant Governors are appointed by Her Excellency the Right Honourable Julie Payette, Governor General of Canada, on the recommendation of the Prime Minister. They serve terms of at least five years.
Biographical Notes
Associated Link
Prime Minister Justin Trudeau speaks with the Prime Minister of Saint Lucia and CARICOM Chair Allen Chastanet
September 5, 2019
Owen Sound, Ontario
Yesterday, Prime Minister Justin Trudeau spoke with the Prime Minister of Saint Lucia, Allen Chastanet, the current Chair of the Caribbean Community (CARICOM).
The Prime Minister expressed his sympathy for the loss of life and for all those affected by the destruction caused by Hurricane Dorian, mentioning his call with Prime Minister Hubert Minnis of The Bahamas earlier in the day and Canada’s offer of $500,000 in initial support and expertise to the disaster relief effort.
The Prime Ministers discussed the need for innovative solutions and greater resilience to address the devastating impacts of extreme weather events felt by the Caribbean and other Small Island Developing States. Prime Minister Trudeau underscored Canada’s ongoing commitment to “building back better” and support for the region, noting in particular Canada’s 2017 pledge of $100 million for Caribbean Reconstruction and Climate Resilience.
The Prime Ministers also discussed their desire for stability in the broader region and a peaceful resolution to the crisis in Venezuela.
Prime Minister announces appointment of Dominic Barton as Ambassador to China
September 4, 2019
Ottawa, Ontario
The Prime Minister, Justin Trudeau, today announced the appointment of Dominic Barton as Canada’s Ambassador to China.
Mr. Barton chaired Canada’s Advisory Council on Economic Growth. He has directly advised Canada’s Cabinet, and served as a member of the Advisory Committee on the Public Service, which was established by former Prime Minister Stephen Harper. He is also the chancellor of the University of Waterloo. From 2009 to 2018, Mr. Barton was the global managing partner at McKinsey, where he gained vast experience in international business and trade – including as head of their office in Korea and as chairman in Asia, based in Shanghai.
Mr. Barton graduated from the University of British Columbia with an Honours Bachelor of Arts in Economics, and studied as a Rhodes Scholar at Oxford University, where he obtained his Master of Philosophy in Economics. He also holds eight honourary doctorates from academic institutions around the world.
As the senior Canadian diplomat in China, Mr. Barton will provide strategic guidance to the Prime Minister and represent the Government of Canada in the country.
Quotes
“I am pleased to announce Dominic Barton as Canada’s Ambassador to China. His years of experience in Asia, and the significant global economics expertise he has acquired over an impressive career, will make him a great choice to represent Canada – and Canadian interests – in China.”
The Rt. Hon. Justin Trudeau, Prime Minister of Canada
“I am pleased our government is today announcing the appointment of Dominic Barton as Canada’s Ambassador to China. An expert in the region, he is exceptionally well-suited to represent Canada and advance Canadian interests at this critical time. I would also like to thank Chargé d’Affaires Jim Nickel and the entire Canadian diplomatic team in Beijing for their incredible hard work, leadership, and continued service.”
The Hon. Chrystia Freeland, Minister of Foreign Affairs
“It is an honour to be appointed as Canada’s Ambassador to China. The relationship between Canada and China is an important one, and I will work hard to represent our great country and to resolve the challenges that currently exist.”
Dominic Barton