Statement by the Prime Minister on the Speech from the Throne
December 5, 2019
Ottawa, Ontario
December 5, 2019
Ottawa, Ontario
December 4, 2019
London, United Kingdom
December 5, 2019
Ottawa, Ontario
The Prime Minister, Justin Trudeau, today issued the following statement on the Speech from the Throne:
“This fall, Canadians sent a clear message: they want their Parliamentarians to work together on the issues that matter most to them. We have a mandate from Canadians to fight climate change, strengthen the middle class, walk the road of reconciliation, keep people safe and healthy, and position our country for success in an uncertain world. Canadians have chosen to keep moving forward, and this is our plan to do just that.
“Our children and grandchildren will judge us by how we confront the defining challenge of our time – climate change. We must act now to protect the environment, while growing the economy and making life more affordable. This Government will continue to lead with a price on pollution, and set an ambitious target to achieve net-zero emissions by 2050. We will also support cleaner, more efficient communities and homes, and protect more of our land and oceans. At the same time, we will work to get Canadian resources to new markets, and provide unwavering support to the hardworking Canadians in our natural resources sectors.
“All Canadians should benefit from our country’s economic success. This Government’s first act will be to cut taxes for all but the wealthiest, giving more money to middle class families and those who need it most. We will also make it easier for people to get an education, buy their first home, and find care for their kids. In the last mandate, we reduced poverty across the country, and we will continue crucial investments in areas like affordable housing. For workers, we will help people enter the workforce, grow their skills, and transition between jobs. This is part of our responsible plan to build a strong and growing modern economy.
“In 2015, we promised a new relationship with Indigenous peoples – one that would help deliver a better quality of life for their families and communities. While we have made important progress, there is still much to do. We will continue to move forward in partnership to deliver on the distinct priorities of Indigenous peoples. This will include, among other things, action in the next year to implement the United Nations Declaration on the Rights of Indigenous Peoples.
“All Canadians want to live in a country where, when people are sick, they can get the help they need. We will work with the provinces and territories to ensure that people can access quality health care, including drug coverage.
“A better quality of life also means feeling safe. We will take action to prevent the devastating effects of gun violence by banning military-style assault rifles, and allowing municipalities to ban handguns. In addition, we will take further steps to address gender-based violence in Canada.
“Importantly, we will also continue to recognize our solemn duty to those who serve in the Canadian Armed Forces, and invest to improve mental health care supports and housing for veterans.
“Finally, in an uncertain world, we will stand up for the values and interests that are core to our prosperity and security – democracy, human rights, and respect for international law. We will continue to build partnerships that make our country, and world, more safe, just, prosperous, and sustainable. We will also renew our commitment to peacekeeping, and continue to help the world’s most vulnerable people reach their full potential.
“Canadians are counting on us, and this plan is a path forward for everyone. We have common ground and shared purpose. Together, we can and we will overcome the challenges of today to build a brighter tomorrow.”
Prime Minister welcomes the new Speaker of the House of Commons
December 5, 2019
Ottawa, Ontario
The Prime Minister, Justin Trudeau, today welcomed the election of Anthony Rota as the new Speaker of the House of Commons.
Canadians expect their Members of Parliament to work together to address the issues that matter most. Canada’s democracy relies on healthy debate, trust in our public institutions, and the right of all elected representatives to be heard in the House of Commons.
The role of the Speaker is critically important, as they impartially interpret parliamentary rules and traditions. The Speaker is also responsible for overseeing the administration and management of the House of Commons, and for fulfilling ceremonial and diplomatic duties.
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“Our colleague, Anthony Rota, is widely recognized and respected as a skilled Parliamentarian. With today’s vote, Members of Parliament have shown every confidence in his ability to oversee the House of Commons in a fair and impartial manner. I congratulate Speaker Rota on his election and look forward to working with him – and all members of the House – to continue delivering real, positive change for Canadians. I also thank Geoff Regan for his exceptional service to the House as Speaker over the last four years, and his tireless work to protect and strengthen Canada’s democracy.”
Quick Facts
- The Honourable Anthony Rota is the 37th Speaker of the House of Commons.
- At the beginning of a new Parliament, the House of Commons elects a Speaker of the House. Through a secret ballot, Members of Parliament choose who among them will be Speaker.
- The Speaker also serves as the spokesperson for the House of Commons in its relations with the Senate, the Crown, and other bodies outside Parliament.
Associated Link
Prime Minister concludes productive NATO Leaders Meeting
December 4, 2019
London, United Kingdom
The Prime Minister, Justin Trudeau, today concluded his participation in the NATO Leaders Meeting in London, United Kingdom. Over the last two days, Prime Minister Trudeau met with Allies to mark the 70th anniversary of the Alliance and discuss shared priorities.
During the meeting, Prime Minister Trudeau reiterated Canada’s unwavering commitment to NATO and its values, and highlighted the significant ways in which Canada strengthens the Alliance. The Prime Minister announced that Canada is expanding its commitment to the NATO Readiness Initiative by increasing our contribution by 6 fighter aircraft and a frigate at the Secretary-General’s request. This brings our total commitment to 12 CF-18s, an expeditionary air task force, a maritime patrol aircraft, three frigates, a submarine, a mechanized infantry battalion, a mobile hospital, and a platoon for chemical, biological, radiological and nuclear decontamination. This contribution is another demonstration of Canada’s strong support for NATO and for the collective security of the Alliance.
Today, Prime Minister Trudeau joined Allies in agreeing to the London Declaration, reaffirming the solidarity, unity, and cohesion of the Alliance. Prime Minister Trudeau also had bilateral meetings with President Trump of the United States, President Levits of Latvia, Prime Minister Rutte of the Netherlands, Prime Minister Solberg of Norway, and Prime Minister Sánchez of Spain.
The Leaders Meeting was an opportunity to discuss enhancing the Alliance’s agility and effectiveness, including NATO space policy, the renewal of NATO’s counter-terrorism action plan, and working to address emerging and future threats. Leaders endorsed NATO’s first-ever policy to prevent and respond to sexual exploitation and abuse, in which Canada played a significant role.
While in London, the Prime Minister attended a reception given by Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II, followed by a dinner hosted by the Prime Minister of the United Kingdom and Northern Ireland, Boris Johnson. Prime Minister Trudeau also had a private audience with Her Majesty at Buckingham Palace, and met with His Royal Highness, The Prince of Wales.
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“For 70 years, NATO has been fundamental to Canada’s security and defence, and we remain committed to this Alliance. In recent years, Canada has strengthened its engagement in NATO, taking on vital leadership roles. Today, Canada is leading NATO missions in Latvia, Iraq, and NATO maritime forces in the Mediterranean Sea and the Black Sea, and advancing the Women, Peace and Security agenda. Canada will continue to pull our weight within NATO, as we work together to keep Canadians safe and build a more peaceful and stable world.”
Quick Facts
- All 29 nations endorsed the London Declaration reaffirming their commitment to the Alliance’s collective freedoms, values, and security.
- Prime Minister Trudeau participated in an armchair discussion with Prime Minister Mark Rutte of the Netherlands during the NATO Engages event, to discuss the future and importance of the Alliance.
- Currently, Canada is leading NATO’s enhanced Forward Presence Battle Group in Latvia, commanding NATO Mission Iraq for a second year, and commanding Standing NATO Maritime Group 2.
- Canada also contributes to trans-Atlantic security by providing support for Ukraine’s security and stability, primarily through Operation UNIFIER.
Associated Links
- North Atlantic Treaty Organization (NATO)
- Canada and NATO
- NATO Mission Iraq welcomes a new Canadian Commander
- London Declaration
From the Prime Minister's Web Site (https://pm.gc.ca/)
December 4, 2019
Ottawa, Ontario
December 3, 2019
Ottawa, Ontario
Statement by the Prime Minister on the launch of Christmas Lights Across Canada
December 4, 2019
Ottawa, Ontario
The Prime Minister, Justin Trudeau, today issued the following statement on the launch of the 35th edition of Christmas Lights Across Canada, which will run in Canada’s Capital Region until January 7, 2020:
“Tonight, Parliament Hill and Confederation Park will transform into a dazzling festive wonderland for the opening night of Christmas Lights Across Canada.
“For over three decades, the colourful light show has captured people’s hearts as they gather to enjoy a truly Canadian holiday experience. Every night for the next month, thousands of lights will shine in Canadian capitals from coast to coast to coast, reminding us of the spirit of the season and all that brings us together as a country.
“As the end of the year approaches and we celebrate our favourite traditions, let us all do our part to give back. Acts of kindness — from volunteering at a local food bank, helping a neighbour shovel their driveway, or writing a letter to a Canadian Armed Forces member away for the holidays — bring us closer as we build a better Canada for everyone.
“On behalf of the Government of Canada, I invite people to take time out to watch as Christmas Lights Across Canada lights up the long winter nights. From our family to yours, Sophie and I wish everyone celebrating a joyful Christmas season.”
Statement by the Prime Minister on the International Day of Persons with Disabilities
December 3, 2019
Ottawa, Ontario
The Prime Minister, Justin Trudeau, today issued the following statement on the International Day of Persons with Disabilities:
“On the International Day of Persons with Disabilities, we recognize Canadians, and people around the world, who live with a disability. Our neighbours and friends, colleagues and family, every day they defy stereotypes and overcome stigma to redefine what it means to thrive.
“Even as people with disabilities lead the way forward, many still face discrimination, exclusion, and barriers. Today, we recommit ourselves to building a more inclusive country – and world – based on equality and respect for everyone’s human rights.
“Over the last four years, we have taken significant steps to remove barriers and ensure equal opportunities for all Canadians. This July, the Accessible Canada Act came into force, after being developed with disability communities through the most inclusive and accessible consultations in Canadian history. Canada’s first national accessibility law is helping to create communities, workplaces, and services that give everyone the opportunity to participate fully in society.
“While we have made important progress, we also know there is more to be done. With the leadership of the new Minister of Employment, Workforce Development and Disability Inclusion, Carla Qualtrough, we will continue to promote the rights of Canadians with disabilities, and build a more accessible and disability inclusive country.
“We will also continue to protect the rights of people with disabilities around the world. Last December, Canada acceded to the Optional Protocol to the United Nations Convention on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities as part of our unwavering commitment to provide equal opportunity and protect the dignity and independence of people with disabilities.
“We all benefit when everyone can fully contribute to our communities. Today, let us celebrate the accomplishments of people living with disabilities, as we work together to build a more inclusive Canada.”
