Prime Minister Justin Trudeau hosts leaders roundtable ...

 Prime Minister Justin Trudeau hosts leaders roundtable on key regional issues at the Summit of the Americas

June 9, 2022
Los Angeles, California

Yesterday, Prime Minister Justin Trudeau convened a roundtable discussion with some of Canada’s closest partners in the hemisphere to discuss pressing issues of shared concern. Leaders from Barbados, Belize, Chile, Ecuador, and Jamaica participated in the discussion.

The leaders discussed how they will continue to grow their economies, create good jobs, make life more affordable, and ensure nobody is left behind. They acknowledged and recognized the negative impacts the COVID-19 pandemic continues to have on the region’s economies and health systems, and that women, girls, and other vulnerable groups have and continue to suffer disproportionately. Prime Minister Trudeau spoke about Russia’s illegal, unprovoked, and unjustifiable invasion of Ukraine. He highlighted how Russia’s invasion of Ukraine has destabilized food and energy security, further exacerbating the situation at a time when economies are struggling to recover from the pandemic.

The leaders spoke of the urgency of efforts to achieve full pandemic and economic recovery, and agreed that the consequences of inaction threaten the well-being of their people. They reaffirmed their collective engagement to fighting climate change and supporting the global transition to a green and sustainable future. They spoke of the exponential growth potential of inclusive economic growth. They emphasized the pressing need to address climate change and mitigate its impacts, including through the implementation of commitments made at the Summit of the Americas and at the United Nations Climate Change Conference (COP26) in 2021. The leaders discussed in particular the importance of providing climate financing and putting a price on pollution for meeting climate goals. They spoke of the need for accessible financing designed to support middle-income island states prepare and respond to external shocks, such as climate change events.

The leaders discussed the importance of strong and resilient democracies in the hemisphere. They committed to collaborating to help safeguard democracy in the digital age, recognizing new technologies create opportunities for inclusion, but have also fueled disinformation. The leaders also reaffirmed their commitment to the shared values of human rights, media freedom, equality, and inclusion.

The leaders recognized that gender equality benefits us all, and it is only when everyone has access to equal rights and opportunities that we can build stronger, more peaceful, and prosperous societies. The Prime Minister confirmed his commitment to the rights of women, girls, and LGBTQ2 individuals throughout the hemisphere, as well as those of Indigenous Peoples and all other citizens who have been historically marginalized.

Prime Minister Trudeau emphasized the importance of collective action to address common challenges and to support the achievement of the 2030 Agenda and the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals. The leaders recognized the need to work together and with other partners in the hemisphere to advance their mutual interests for the benefit of all.

Associated Links

• Prime Minister to visit NORAD and attend the Summit of the Americas
• Summit of the Americas
• Canada takes action on the 2030 Agenda and the Sustainable Development Goals
• UN conference on climate action: COP26 in Glasgow

Prime Minister Justin Trudeau meets with the President of the United States of America, Joe Biden

June 9, 2022
Los Angeles, California

Today, Prime Minister Justin Trudeau met with the President of the United States of America, Joe Biden, to reiterate their commitment to deepening the Canada-U.S. partnership on a wide range of bilateral, regional, and global challenges.

The leaders discussed Putin’s illegal and unjustifiable military aggression against Ukraine, the immense human grief and suffering, and stressed their unwavering commitment to continue supporting the government and people of Ukraine. The leaders agreed to continue their close cooperation on sanctions alignment, and on economic, humanitarian, military, and other forms of assistance, and to continue working with partners and allies to maintain unity in the face of Russia’s disregard for the sovereignty and territorial integrity of Ukraine, and the rules-based international order.

The Prime Minister noted Canada’s commitment to the defence and security of NATO Allies, and of the North American continent. He outlined Canada’s recent defence spending commitments in Budget 2022, and discussed support of North American Aerospace Defense Command (NORAD) modernization.

On the Summit of the Americas, the Prime Minister and the President shared their mutual commitment to the Summit theme of “Building a Sustainable, Resilient, and Equitable Future.” The Prime Minister noted his commitment to supporting inclusive economic growth, pandemic recovery, climate action, the green transition, and democratic resilience in the hemisphere. The Prime Minister expressed his support for President Biden’s Americas Partnership for Economic Prosperity, and looked forward to working together with the President and other hemispheric partners to advance the well-being of people across the hemisphere.

The Prime Minister and President discussed irregular migration and forced displacement, and reiterated their commitment to working together to address the root causes of migration. The Prime Minister expressed his support for the Los Angeles Declaration on Migration and Protection, and his commitment to enhance cooperation with the U.S. and other partners to respond to the current humanitarian, protection, and irregular migration challenges in the region.

The Prime Minister and President discussed the ongoing crisis in Haiti.

The leaders noted the polarizing effects of disinformation, and the grave threat it poses to civil societies, especially in Russia.

The Prime Minister and President discussed their mutual commitment to enhancing collaboration on regional security and good governance in the Indo-Pacific region, and with regards to their respective relationships with China. They recognized Canada’s recent announcement that it intends to implement a new telecommunications security framework, and to prohibit the inclusion of Huawei and ZTE’s products and services in Canada’s 5G networks.

The Prime Minister and the President renewed their commitment to supply chain security and resilience and noted the release earlier today of the U.S.-Canada/Canada-U.S. Supply Chains Working Group Progress Report.

The leaders also noted progress made under the Joint Action Plan on Critical Minerals, and discussed the importance of taking further action bilaterally. They also stressed their commitment to working with like-minded partners to drive investment to mining, minerals processing and recycling projects, including for those critical minerals which are core inputs for electric vehicles, advanced batteries, and other clean energy technologies.

The leaders noted the recent challenges with global energy markets and reiterated the importance of working together to strengthen Canada-U.S. energy security. They recognized the opportunity that enhanced Canada-U.S. energy collaboration offers for our collective energy security, that domestic energy security and climate action are increasingly and inextricably tied together, and that the clean energy transition will deliver energy security and a sustainable future for generations to come.

The Prime Minister and the President therefore noted their shared commitment to combatting climate change and accelerating the green transition.

The Prime Minister and the President noted the importance of continuing to promote and nurture trade and investment ties. The Prime Minister noted that the imposition of duties on Canadian softwood lumber are placing further pressure on home prices and affordability.  

The Prime Minister and the President noted the uniqueness of the Canada-U.S. partnership, and the broad and deep people-to-people ties that bind us together, and stressed their mutual commitment to continuing to deepen the relationship for the benefit of all of our citizens.

The leaders agreed that the President will visit Canada in the coming months.

Associated Links

• Canada-United States relations
• Prime Minister to visit NORAD and attend the Summit of the Americas
• Prime Minister Justin Trudeau speaks with the President of the United States of America Joe Biden
• U.S.-Canada/Canada-U.S. Supply Chains Progress Report
• Canada’s response to the Russian invasion of Ukraine

Prime Minister Justin Trudeau meets with President of Argentina Alberto Fernández

June 9, 2022
Los Angeles, California

Today, Prime Minister Justin Trudeau met with the President of Argentina, Alberto Fernández, on the margins of the Summit of the Americas.

Prime Minister Trudeau and President Fernández exchanged views on their respective efforts to promote inclusive economic growth, democratic resilience, and gender equality, both at home and across the hemisphere. Prime Minister Trudeau recognized Argentina’s commitment to climate action, and the two leaders agreed on the importance of working together with like-minded partners to achieve shared climate goals and a greener future.

Prime Minister Trudeau and President Fernández discussed their shared concern over Russian aggression in Ukraine and its serious impacts, notably on energy and food security, in the Americas and around the world. Prime Minister Trudeau reiterated his appreciation for Argentina’s leadership as President of the United Nations Human Rights Council.

The leaders also agreed on the need to bring stability back to Venezuela. Prime Minister Trudeau commended President Fernández’s efforts in welcoming Venezuelan refugees.

Prime Minister Trudeau and President Fernández looked forward to meeting again soon to continue and strengthen their close cooperation, bilaterally, in the region, and globally.

Associated Links

• Canada-Argentina relations
• Prime Minister Justin Trudeau speaks with President of Argentina Alberto Fernández
• Prime Minister to visit NORAD and attend the Summit of the Americas
• Summit of the Americas
• Canada’s response to the Russian invasion of UkraineBuilding a Sustainable, Resilient, and Equitable Future through the Sustainable Development Goals
  
  June 8, 2022
  Los Angeles, California
  
  

  The Prime Minister, Justin Trudeau, and the Prime Minister of Barbados, Mia Mottley, today issued the following joint statement on building a sustainable, resilient, and equitable future through the Sustainable Development Goals:

  “The world has changed since the last time that we came together in Lima in 2018. The COVID-19 pandemic and ensuing economic and financial crises laid bare fissures and gaps in the system that we now need to address. Millions falling into poverty for the first time in nearly a quarter-century; worsening inequality within and between countries; devastating climatic events, limited progress on gender equality; rising conflict and instability around the globe; the slow pandemic of anti-microbial resistance; and the emerging food crisis all signal that business as usual is not an option.

  “As co-Chairs of the United Nations Secretary-General’s Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) Advocates group, we believe that the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development offers us a path of hope for a better world that is more sustainable, more equitable and more prosperous. But achieving the 2030 Agenda will take more effort, a high level of resolve, and a renewed commitment to international solidarity. As champions for this Agenda, we see some areas where we as leaders in the Americas need to focus to accelerate progress and achieve our goal of sustainable development. We must deliver better public education and health care for more and create the policy space to do so.

  “We must provide greater space for the voices of youth, women and girls in all of their diversity, Indigenous peoples, persons with disabilities, and other historically marginalized groups to be heard and respected. We will not achieve the SDGs without them.

  “Strong democracies with resilient institutions that protect and respect human rights and fundamental freedoms and support strong civil societies are central to creating a better future for all.  We call on leaders of the Americas to work together to empower parliamentarians, civil society, and community leaders to raise awareness and mobilize citizens to accelerate progress on the SDGs.

  “We must also ensure that our international institutions work for all of us, and in particular that they are responding to the needs of the most vulnerable and those most impacted by the new challenges of the climate crisis, and the debt overhang of the pandemic. As co-Chairs, we are committed to working alongside the United Nations, the IMF, World Bank, and other international and regional financial institutions to ensure that these specific vulnerabilities are reflected in the international response to the challenges we face.

  “Diversified partnerships are the cornerstone of sustainable development. We must do better to align all sources of finance to the SDGs, including from the multilateral development banks, the private sector, and philanthropic organizations.

  “For many of us in the Americas, we know the devastating impact of sea-level rise due to climate change and the catastrophic effects of tropical storms and adverse weather effects on our countries and peoples. The existential risk posed by climate change cannot be ignored. Financing greater resilience for those in our region on the frontline of the climate crisis is a new and critical priority. And we all need to work towards mitigation of the crisis through a greener future that balances economic and environmental considerations, transitions the world towards cleaner energy sources, preserves land, oceans, and biodiversity, and mobilizes private savings and new, environmentally sound technologies.

  “We support the ambitious fulfillment of the Paris Agreement and call on leaders to re-double efforts to find the missing ingredient so far: climate finance. We encourage our citizens and young people to hold us to account, including by promoting the adoption, expansion and regional integration of carbon pricing to accelerate climate mitigation efforts and help fund efforts to rebuild following climate related events.

  “The global challenges we face are complex and interrelated. In the response to the pandemic and the global financial crisis before, it is clear that we can be equal to major disasters. We must give greater priority to the even larger but more slow-onset challenges addressed by the SDGs. Bold, innovative action and long-term thinking is essential. The 5Ps of the 2030 Agenda express this succinctly: Investing in People, fostering Partnerships, and protecting the Planet will allow us to realize Peace and Prosperity. We call on you to bring your boldest ambition, brightest ideas, and best efforts to help us all realize the SDGs and a better world for all.”

• Joint Statement on the new Canada-California Climate Action and Nature Protection Partnership

  
  June 9, 2022
  Los Angeles, California
  
  

  The world’s leading climate scientists have made it clear - our window to avoid the worst impacts of climate change is narrowing faster than expected, and success requires unprecedented collective effort and transformational change. In direct response to this crisis, California and Canada today launched a Climate Action and Nature Protection Partnership. Guided by shared values and priorities, the Partnership is our next step forward to deliver clean air and water, good jobs, and healthy communities for Canadians and Californians alike. 

  In 2019, our governments agreed to work together on reducing vehicle emissions, advancing clean fuel standards, and incentivizing the adoption of zero-emissions vehicles. Since then, our jurisdictions have both committed to mandate that zero-emissions vehicles represent 100% of new light-duty vehicle sales by 2035 and are taking decisive steps to transition the medium and heavy-duty sectors to zero emissions as well. This new Partnership builds on these successes.

  Already, both Canada and California have proposed bans on harmful single-use plastics, advanced nature and oceans protection, committed to clean electricity grids, all while prioritizing healthy and resilient communities and natural systems. Our firefighters cross the border to help neighbours in need, while we secure supply chains so that our industries can keep creating good jobs across the continent.

  Canada and California have much to offer each other, in sharing information and best practices, collaborating on policy and regulation, and pursuing mutually beneficial joint initiatives. From clean technology and biodiversity conservation, to zero emission transportation and a circular economy, the Partnership will deliver for our citizens and deepen our economic partnership. Together, we can fight climate change and protect nature while building inclusive, thriving economies that work for everyone, especially disadvantaged communities that are most impacted by climate change.

  In addition to the Memorandum of Cooperation signed today that outlines areas of shared work under our new Partnership, we committed to Canada and California co-hosting an Expert Roundtable on Wildfires and Forest Resilience at UN Climate Week. This event will bring together officials, academics, industry, and civil society to chart our next steps forward on this common goal.

  In all our work, we acknowledge the important role of partnership with Indigenous Peoples, recognizing that Indigenous knowledge, including traditional knowledge, customary practices and cultural values, is essential for climate action and nature protection.

  By working together, our governments will fight climate change, protect nature, advance equity and create jobs and thriving businesses. Our partnership is an example to the world of the collaboration that will build a bright future for people everywhere.                 

  Gavin Newsom Governor of the State of California The Prime Minister announces changes in the senior ranks of the Public Service June 9, 2022 Ottawa, Ontario The Prime Minister, Justin Trudeau, today announced the following changes in the senior ranks of the Public Service: Catherine Blewett, currently Chief Strategic Engagement Officer, Ocean Frontier Institute, becomes Deputy Minister of Economic Development within the Innovation, Science and Economic Development portfolio, effective June 20, 2022. Tricia Geddes, currently Deputy Director, Policy and Strategic Partnerships, Canadian Security Intelligence Service, becomes Associate Deputy Minister of Public Safety, effective June 20, 2022. Mollie Johnson, currently Assistant Deputy Minister, Low Carbon Energy Sector, Natural Resources Canada, becomes Associate Deputy Minister of Natural Resources, effective June 20, 2022. Biographical Notes Catherine Blewett Tricia Geddes Mollie Johnson Prime Minister Justin Trudeau meets with President of General Motors International Shilpan Amin June 8, 2022 Los Angeles, California Today, Prime Minister Justin Trudeau met with Shilpan Amin, President of General Motors International, on the margins of the Summit of the Americas. The Prime Minister recognized the vital contribution that General Motors International makes to the Canadian auto manufacturing sector, and welcomed the company’s recent investments in Oshawa and Ingersoll, Ontario. These investments strengthen the integrated North American auto sector and create good, middle-class jobs. The Prime Minister stressed Canada’s commitment to a net-zero future, and the critical role that zero-emission passenger vehicles will play in that future. He welcomed General Motors’ partnership in that effort, including its recent announcement to build a cathode active material (CAM) plant in Bécancour, Quebec, to support the production of electric vehicle batteries in North America. Associated Links Prime Minister to visit NORAD and attend the Summit of the Americas Summit of the Americas Government of Canada secures thousands of jobs and helps create Canada’s first full-scale commercial electric vehicle manufacturing facility Canadian automotive industry Zero-emission vehicles Prime Minister announces nomination of Philippe Dufresne as Privacy Commissioner of Canada June 8, 2022 Ottawa, Ontario The Prime Minister, Justin Trudeau, today announced the nomination of Philippe Dufresne as Privacy Commissioner of Canada. Mr. Dufresne is a leading legal expert on human rights, administrative, and constitutional law. A member of the Bars of Quebec, Ontario, and Massachusetts, he has successfully represented the Canadian Human Rights Commission as Senior General Counsel before all levels of Canadian Courts, including the Supreme Court of Canada, in some of the key human rights and constitutional cases of the last two decades. He was appointed Law Clerk and Parliamentary Counsel of the House of Commons in February 2015. The Office of the Privacy Commissioner of Canada (OPC) was established in 1983 following the passage of the Privacy Act, which governs the personal information handling practices of federal departments and agencies. In 2001, the duties of the OPC were extended to include private sector businesses subject to the Personal Information Protection and Electronic Documents Act, Canada’s federal private-sector privacy law. Quote “Mr. Dufresne is a leading legal expert and has a breadth of experience on human rights, administrative, and constitutional law. I am confident that he would serve Canadians well in protecting and promoting privacy rights as Privacy Commissioner.” The Rt. Hon. Justin Trudeau, Prime Minister of Canada Quick Facts The Privacy Commissioner is an independent Agent of Parliament, appointed under the Privacy Act for a term of seven years. The Privacy Commissioner is eligible to be reappointed for further terms not exceeding seven years. The appointment is made by the Governor in Council after consultation with the leader of every recognized party in the House of Commons and group in the Senate, and after approval by resolution of both Houses of Parliament. The Privacy Commissioner’s responsibilities include investigating complaints, conducting audits, and taking legal action when needed; publicly reporting on how public and private sector organizations handle personal information; and supporting research and promoting public awareness and understanding of privacy issues. Biographical Note Philippe Dufresne Associated Links Governor in Council appointments Office of the Privacy Commissioner of Canada Statement by the Prime Minister on World Oceans Day June 8, 2022 Ottawa, Ontario The Prime Minister, Justin Trudeau, today issued the following statement on World Oceans Day: “Today, we join people around the world in celebrating World Oceans Day. With the longest coastline in the world, our oceans are part of who we are as Canadians from coast to coast to coast. They support our workers, our communities, and our local economies. “This year’s theme, ‘Revitalization: Collective Action for the Ocean’, invites us all to work together to keep our oceans and coasts healthy. Over the past six years, the government has taken historic action to do just that. From keeping plastic pollution out of our waters to protecting more of our coasts than ever before, we are working together with Canadians, Indigenous Peoples, coastal communities, and our international partners every step of the way. “The government has stepped up its actions to tackle plastic pollution. No one wants to see plastic litter on their local beaches or in their communities, which is why we are banning harmful single-use plastics that far too often end up in our marine environments and harm wildlife. We are committed to ending plastic waste by 2030 through improving plastic recycling, and we’re working with our international partners through championing the Ocean Plastics Charter. “We have also made major progress in protecting our oceans. Since 2015, we have gone from protecting less than one per cent of Canada’s marine coastal areas to over 14 per cent today – exceeding our conservation goal ahead of schedule. There’s more work to be done to protect a quarter of our oceans by 2025, and 30 per cent by 2030, which is why we invested a historic $1 billion just last year to get there. “That is why, in Budget 2022, we proposed an additional $2 billion over nine years to renew and expand the Oceans Protection Plan. Since its launch in 2016, it has made shipping safer, protected marine animals and coasts, improved Canada’s ability to prevent and respond to marine incidents, and strengthened meaningful partnerships with Indigenous Peoples and coastal communities. “As we do this work at home, we’re also teaming up with international partners. Just this week, ahead of the Summit of the Americas this week, I announced that Canada will co-sponsor Chile’s Americas for the Protection of the Ocean Declaration. This initiative will bring countries together to keep the Pacific Ocean clean and healthy. “On behalf of the Government of Canada, I encourage everyone to celebrate World Oceans Day. Today and every day, we all share the collective responsibility to keep our oceans and coasts healthy and the Government of Canada will continue working together with all Canadians, Indigenous Peoples, and partners around the world to create a brighter future for our children and grandchildren.” The Prime Minister announces a reappointment in the senior ranks of the Public Service June 7, 2022 Ottawa, Ontario The Prime Minister, Justin Trudeau, today announced the reappointment of: David Vigneault, as Director of the Canadian Security Intelligence Service, effective June 19, 2022. Mr. Vigneault brings a wealth of experience from the intelligence and security community to the role, including almost two decades as a senior public servant at the Canadian Security Intelligence Service, the Canada Border Services Agency, and the Privy Council Office. Bibliographical Note David Vigneault Prime Minister concludes successful visit of President of Chile Gabriel Boric June 6, 2022 Ottawa, Ontario The Prime Minister, Justin Trudeau, today met with the President of Chile, Gabriel Boric, to further strengthen the relationship between the two countries and their partnership in the Americas. During the meeting, Prime Minister Trudeau and President Boric re-affirmed their commitment to work together as progressive leaders on issues that matter to Canadians and Chileans alike, including promoting democracy and safeguarding human rights, generating economic growth that creates good jobs and benefits everyone, protecting the environment, and furthering meaningful engagement with Indigenous Peoples. Prime Minister Trudeau and President Boric strongly condemned Russia’s unjustifiable invasion of Ukraine and highlighted their unwavering support of Ukraine’s democracy, sovereignty, and territorial integrity. The leaders also pledged to work together to support internationally displaced persons, including the millions of refugees and migrants fleeing Venezuela to seek a secure future in the hemisphere. Prime Minister Trudeau also announced that Canada will co-sponsor the America for the Protection of the Ocean Declaration, a Chilean initiative for countries to work together to protect the Pacific Ocean. This underscores Canada’s commitment to keeping our oceans and coasts clean and healthy and fighting climate change. Building on Canada and Chile’s ambitious climate action, the two leaders also issued a joint statement identifying pollution pricing as one of the most efficient ways to cut emissions and create jobs, and agreed to work together to promote its adoption in the Americas and beyond. During the visit, Canada and Chile signed the Memorandum of Understanding on Cooperation in Gender Equality and Women’s Empowerment to establish a framework to promote gender equality and women’s empowerment. Prime Minister Trudeau also welcomed Chile’s decision to join the Freedom Online Coalition, a group of countries dedicated to ensuring that the human rights people have offline, are also protected online. Canada is serving as the Chair of the coalition for 2022, with a particular focus on reinforcing democracy by ensuring informed and engaged publics can participate meaningfully in society. Later this afternoon, Prime Minister Trudeau and President Boric will meet with high school students for a discussion on the environment and climate change, leadership, democracy, and gender equality. Following this visit, the leaders will travel to Los Angeles to attend the Summit of the Americas from June 8 to June 10.  Quote “Canada and Chile are close friends and partners in the Americas. We are united by our steadfast commitment to climate action, democracy, peace and security, human rights, engagement with Indigenous Peoples, economic growth that benefits everyone, and gender equality. It’s never been more important for progressive leaders to work together to make life better for people, by growing the middle class and helping people working hard to join it. By protecting our oceans, putting a price on pollution, and continuing to lead on gender equality, we will continue strengthening our partnership and create a better future for everyone in Canada and Chile.” The Rt. Hon. Justin Trudeau, Prime Minister of Canada Quick Facts At COP26 in November 2021, Prime Minister Trudeau called on all countries to take bold action to expand the use of pollution pricing globally with a goal of having 60 per cent of global emissions covered by pollution pricing by 2030. Canada and Chile have enjoyed vibrant diplomatic relations since 1941, spanning over 80 years. This year marks the 25th anniversary of the Canada-Chile Free Trade Agreement (CCFTA) and Environmental and Labour Cooperation Agreements. Bilateral merchandise trade has more than quadrupled since the CCFTA came into force in 1997. In 2021, Canada exported more than $1.2 billion in merchandise to Chile in 2021, while imports from Chile totalled more than $1.8 billion. Canada is the second most important foreign investor in Chile. In addition to the Summit of the Americas, Canada and Chile are close partners in several regional and multilateral fora, including the United Nations, the Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation forum, the World Trade Organization, the Organization of American States, and the Pacific Alliance. A growing number of Chileans have been choosing Canada for their studies, with study permits issued to Chileans more than tripling in the past five years – from 430 in 2016 to nearly 1,400 in 2021. Related Products Joint statement by Prime Minister Justin Trudeau and President Gabriel Boric Canada-Chile announcement on carbon pricing MOU between the Republic of Chile and the Government of Canada on Cooperation in Gender Equality and Women’s Empowerment Associated Links President of Chile Gabriel Boric to visit Canada Canada-Chile relations Canada-Chile Free Trade Agreement Canada-Chile Agreement on Environmental Cooperation Summit of the Americas Prime Minister announces appointment of new Chief Justice of the Superior Court of Quebec June 6, 2022 Ottawa, Ontario The Prime Minister, Justin Trudeau, today announced the appointment of the Honourable Marie-Anne Paquette, a puisne judge of the Superior Court of Quebec for the district of Montréal, as the new Chief Justice of the Superior Court of Quebec. Chief Justice Paquette replaces the Honourable Jacques Robert Fournier, who elected to retire from his full-time position, but continues to work as a supernumerary judge. Quote “I wish the Honourable Marie-Anne Paquette every success in her new role as Chief Justice of the Superior Court of Quebec. She brings a wealth of experience to the position, with over 10 years as a judge on the Superior Court of Quebec. I am confident Chief Justice Paquette will continue to serve Quebecers well.” The Rt. Hon. Justin Trudeau, Prime Minister of Canada Quick Facts 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 services 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. Biographical Note The Honourable Marie-Anne Paquette Statement by the Prime Minister on Canadian Armed Forces Day June 5, 2022 Ottawa, Ontario The Prime Minister, Justin Trudeau, today issued the following statement on Canadian Armed Forces Day: “Today, we honour and recognize members of the Canadian Armed Forces (CAF) who display unwavering courage, sacrifice, and selflessness every day they wear the uniform. Here at home and around the world, they embody the values we hold dear – peace, freedom, and democracy. “There are approximately 2,000 CAF members who are currently deployed on nearly 20 different operations across Canada and around the world, including providing humanitarian assistance to Ukrainians in Poland who have been displaced by Russia’s illegal invasion of their country. In total there are approximately 1,400 CAF members serving on Operation REASSURANCE as part of our multiyear commitment to support the North Atlantic Treaty Organization’s ongoing assurance and deterrence measures in Central and Eastern Europe in response to Russian aggression in the region. “Canadians in uniform are always ready to help our communities when we need it most. As record heat waves, wildfires, and floods continue to rise as a result of climate change, the proud members of the CAF will continue to step up to protect our communities. Last year, the CAF provided emergency assistance, protected Canadians from extreme weather events, and supported impacted communities as well as critical infrastructure. Since the beginning of the pandemic, they helped in long-term care facilities and seniors’ residences and provided support to the federal, provincial, and territorial governments to distribute COVID-19 vaccines. “The Government of Canada is working to ensure a safe and inclusive working environment for all. We are achieving culture change in the CAF by introducing measures to eliminate discrimination, violence, and harassment, as well as efforts to increase diversity and promote inclusion as a core institutional value. “On behalf of the Government of Canada, I thank our CAF members – as well as their families and loved ones – for their service and selfless commitment to our country.” Statement by the Prime Minister on World Environment Day June 5, 2022 Ottawa, Ontario The Prime Minister, Justin Trudeau, today issued the following statement on World Environment Day: “Today, on World Environment Day, we come together with the international community to protect our planet and ensure our kids and grandkids can have a safe and healthy place to live and grow. This year’s theme – Only One Earth – highlights the importance of working together toward this goal.   “Climate change is real and its impacts are already here. Across the country, Canadians have experienced extreme heat waves, had their homes destroyed by wildfires and floods, and seen their crops devastated by drought – and these extreme weather events are on the rise.   “Since 2015, the Government of Canada, together with Canadians, has taken historic action to cut pollution while growing the economy and creating good jobs. We put a price on pollution, which is making life more affordable for Canadian families in jurisdictions where the federal pricing system applies. We made historic investments in nature conservation, and we’re working with Indigenous and other partners to protect our lands and waters from coast-to-coast-to-coast. We’re working closely with industry to create good manufacturing jobs building electric vehicles. We’re banning harmful single-use plastics and supporting small businesses to innovate and find alternatives to single-use plastics. With the help of Canadians in communities across the country, provinces and territories, Indigenous partners, and the private sector, we are developing Canada’s first National Adaptation Strategy to help prepare our communities for the impacts of climate change. “The 2030 Emissions Reduction Plan: Canada’s Next Steps for Clean Air and a Strong Economy shows how each region of the country and each sector of the economy has an important role to play in creating a clean future. This ambitious and achievable roadmap includes $9.1 billion in new investments to help Canada meet its 2030 emissions target while growing our economy. “We know that the climate crisis knows no borders. So, just like we are leading at home, Canada is a strong advocate for ambitious environmental  action: we are working closely with our international partners to conserve our oceans, we doubled our climate financing commitment so that the world’s most vulnerable don’t get left behind, and last year, we called on all countries to adopt a price on pollution to drive innovation and create jobs. “On this World Environment Day, I encourage all Canadians to learn more about what we can do to leave a clean, healthy planet for our kids and grandkids. We only have one Earth. Let’s stand together to protect it.”