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June 3, 2022
Ottawa, Ontario
The Prime Minister, Justin Trudeau, today issued the following statement on the third anniversary of the final report from the National Inquiry into Missing and Murdered Indigenous Women and Girls:
“Today, we honour Indigenous women, girls, and 2SLGBTQQIA+ people who have gone missing, had their lives taken too soon, or continue to experience violence. We also honour the families and Survivors who have had the courage to share their painful experiences so we can take meaningful action to address this heartbreaking and ongoing tragedy and begin the journey of healing. Your pain is immeasurable, and I thank you for your strength and resiliency in sharing your stories.
“Our justice system has failed Indigenous Peoples. Violence against Indigenous women, girls, and 2SLGBTQQIA+ people in Canada, is a heartbreaking national tragedy. Three years ago today, the National Inquiry into Missing and Murdered Indigenous Women and Girls presented its final report, which confirmed what Indigenous Peoples have long known – that for generations Canada has failed them. The report found the tragedy of missing and murdered Indigenous women, girls and 2SLGBTQQIA+ people is rooted in systemic violations and abuses of human rights, including inherent, treaty, and constitutional rights.
“We need to acknowledge and confront these truths in order to respond to the Inquiry’s Calls for Justice and move forward together to empower Indigenous women, girls, and 2SLGBTQQIA+ people and address violence committed against them. The Government of Canada is committed to making the transformative change necessary to end this tragedy and is working closely with Indigenous Peoples, families, Survivors, communities, and provinces and territories as equal partners.
“Last year, the National Action Plan was launched in partnership with Indigenous families, Survivors, leaders, and partners as well as with provinces and territories, to put an end to this crisis. Truly achieving that goal takes a whole of government approach, which is why the Government of Canada is working with partners to implement the Federal Pathway, which outlines our commitments and contributions to the National Action Plan. The Federal Pathway focuses on making the investments necessary in four theme areas: culture, heath and wellness, human safety and security, and justice, toward ending the systemic causes of violence against Indigenous women, girls, and 2SLGBTQQIA+ people.
“On this important anniversary, I reaffirm the Government of Canada’s commitment to continue working with Survivors, families, communities, and provinces and territories to end the tragedy of the missing and murdered. We will not forget those who never came home and we will honour their memories by working tirelessly to build a better future, where everyone is safe from violence. To Indigenous women, girls, and 2SLGBTQQIA+ people, today, and every day, we are supporting you in reclaiming your power and your place.”
If you or someone you know is impacted by the tragedy of the missing and murdered, and needs immediate emotional assistance, please call 1-844-413-6649. You can also access mental health support services such as mental health counselling, community-based emotional support and cultural services and assistance with travel costs to see Elders and traditional healers away from home.
June 3, 2022
Ottawa, Ontario
The Prime Minister, Justin Trudeau, today announced that he will travel to Colorado Springs to visit the North American Aerospace Defense Command (NORAD) Headquarters and Los Angeles to take part in the Ninth Summit of the Americas, hosted by the President of the United States of America, Joe Biden from June 7 to 11, 2022.
The Prime Minister will travel to Colorado Springs to visit NORAD Headquarters on June 7. He will be joined by Minister of National Defence, Anita Anand.
Then he will travel to Los Angeles to attend the Summit of the Americas, which brings together leaders from North, Central, and South America and the Caribbean to discuss major challenges and shared priorities, including advancing action on climate change, gender equality, and Indigenous rights. Leaders will also discuss Russia’s illegal invasion of Ukraine and the importance of working closely with partners throughout the Americas and around the world to continue to hold Russia accountable and support Ukrainians who have been displaced.
At the Summit, Prime Minister Trudeau will work with world leaders to promote trade, create jobs, and drive economic growth. He will underscore the importance of taking ambitious climate action, including by protecting our oceans and cutting pollution, while creating good jobs and growing the economy. He will also promote democracy and reinforce the continued importance of COVID‑19 testing and treatments, both to identify dangerous variants and to contain future outbreaks. He will be joined by Minister of Foreign Affairs, Mélanie Joly.
While in Los Angeles, Prime Minister Trudeau will hold additional meetings to strengthen joint action on climate change and nature protection. He will be joined by Minister of the Environment and Climate Change, Steven Guilbeault.
Quote
“Canada enjoys profound and longstanding relationships in the Americas. The Summit of the Americas is a unique opportunity to work with world leaders in the region to agree on a forward-looking agenda that tackles the challenges of our time, including advancing climate change and promoting democracy. By working together, we can build a better future for people in the Americas and beyond.”
Quick Facts
- Canada and the United States share an important and valued bilateral relationship that includes a close defence partnership through the binational North American Aerospace Defense Command (NORAD). NORAD is responsible for providing aerospace warning, aerospace control, and maritime warning for the defence of North America.
- The most recent Summit of the Americas was hosted by Peru in Lima in 2018.
- Canada hosted the third Summit of the Americas in Quebec City in 2001.
- The Canada-United States partnership is forged by shared geography, values, and interests, deep personal connections, and strong economic ties. Canada and the United States enjoy the largest trade relationship in the world.
- Canada has longstanding ties and robust relationships with Caribbean countries, including our partnership on development challenges and regional security. We share values including democracy, human rights, and the rule of law with our Commonwealth, Francophonie, and other partners.
- Canada shares many connections with countries and peoples of Latin America, including people-to-people ties, shared values, trade and investment, student exchanges, and tourism.
Associated Links
- Canada-United States relations
- North American Aerospace Defense Command
- Joint Statement on NORAD Modernization
- Canada and Latin America and the Caribbean
- Canada-Caribbean Community (CARICOM) Relations
- Canada and the Organization of American States
- Summit of the Americas
- Young Americas Forum
June 2, 2022
Ottawa, Ontario
The Prime Minister, Justin Trudeau, today issued the following statement on the results of the provincial election in Ontario:
“On behalf of the Government of Canada, I congratulate Doug Ford and the Progressive Conservative Party of Ontario on their re-election.
“Over the past several years, the federal government, working with the province, has delivered historic investments in retooling our auto sector to build cleaner vehicles while creating and securing thousands of good jobs in communities across the province.
“I look forward to continue working with Premier Ford and his government to keep people safe from COVID-19, build the housing that communities need, and deliver on our federal promise of $10-a-day child care for families while growing the middle class and the economy.
“We will build a better future for Ontarians, and all Canadians.”
June 1, 2022
Ottawa, Ontario
The Prime Minister, Justin Trudeau, today issued the following statement on National Indigenous History Month:
“Today, we mark the start of National Indigenous History Month, an opportunity for us all to learn more about the distinct histories of First Nations, Inuit, and Métis. This month, and every month, we have a collective responsibility to honour the stories and contributions of Indigenous Peoples, who have lived on – and cared for – these lands since time immemorial.
“From the Maliseet in Atlantic Canada, to Inuit across Inuit Nunangat, from the Métis across the Prairies and beyond, to the Haida people of the Pacific Northwest, Indigenous communities have diverse histories, customs, spiritualities, and languages. This month is an opportunity for us all to learn about local Indigenous history, and to truly walk the path of reconciliation.
“Only by acknowledging the truths of the past, can we begin to dress the wounds they created, and begin the journey of healing. Right across the country, the findings of unmarked burial sites near former residential schools has confirmed what Survivors and Indigenous communities have known about for decades, providing a tragic reminder of the painful and lasting impacts of colonialism. Over the past year, I’ve had the opportunity to visit many communities and hear directly from Survivors and their families how the painful legacy of residential schools lives with them every day. The Government of Canada will continue to provide the funding and resources communities need to search for unmarked burial sites, uncover the truth of what happened at residential schools, and continue on their healing journey. We are also fully committed to implementing the Truth and Reconciliation Commission’s Calls to Action.
“By learning about Indigenous history in our communities and across the country, we can all play a role in dismantling the systemic racism, inequality, and discrimination that Indigenous Peoples continue to face today. This month, and every month, let us celebrate the resiliency of First Nations, Inuit, and Métis, and work together to build a better future for everyone.”
June 1, 2022
Ottawa, Ontario
The Prime Minister, Justin Trudeau, today announced the appointment of the Honourable Stéphane Dion as Canada’s Ambassador to France. Mr. Dion will remain the Prime Minister’s Special Envoy to the European Union and Europe, a position he has held since 2017. He will also be accredited to Monaco.
Mr. Dion has a proven record of advancing Canada’s priorities in Europe for the benefit of people on both sides of the Atlantic, including in the areas of security, democracy, the environment, and trade. He most recently served as Canada’s Ambassador to Germany where he helped deepen Canada’s relationship with one of our closest European partners. He was elected as a Member of Parliament in 1996 and re-elected seven consecutive times, during which he also served as a federal cabinet minister and the Leader of the Official Opposition.
Canada and France share a strong and longstanding friendship rooted in a common language, shared history, economic partnership, and deep cultural and people-to-people ties. As the senior Canadian diplomat in France and in Europe, Mr. Dion will represent the Government of Canada, work to continue strengthening our bilateral relationship, and provide strategic guidance to the Prime Minister.
The Prime Minister also took the opportunity to thank Isabelle Hudon for her contributions to Canada-France relations as Canada’s Ambassador to France from 2017 to 2021.
Quote
“Stéphane Dion is a proven diplomat and a dedicated public servant. Over the course of his distinguished career, he has served our country with honour and dignity, and I know that he will continue to advance our interests and our common values as Canada’s representative to France and my Special Envoy to Europe.”
Biographical Note
Associated Links
- Canada-France relations
- Statement by the Prime Minister on the result of France’s presidential election
May 31, 2022
Ottawa, Ontario
The Prime Minister, Justin Trudeau, today announced that the President of Chile, Gabriel Boric, will visit Canada on June 6, 2022.
Prime Minister Trudeau and President Boric will meet to advance shared priorities and address global issues. The leaders will discuss taking ambitious climate action including oceans protection and pollution pricing, promoting democracy, advancing human rights and gender equality, furthering meaningful engagement with Indigenous peoples, and growing our economies and the middle class. The two leaders will also discuss Russia’s illegal invasion of Ukraine and the importance of working closely with partners throughout the Americas and around the world to continue to hold Russia accountable and support Ukrainians who have been displaced.
In addition, Prime Minister Trudeau and President Boric will meet with high school students for a discussion on youth leadership.
Quote
“Canada and Chile have a deep relationship, rooted in shared values. We are committed to democracy, human rights and gender equality, combatting climate change, and promoting inclusive trade and international cooperation to address peace and security challenges. I look forward to my meeting with President Boric, where we will aim to strengthen our collaboration, both within the Americas and globally.”
Quick Facts
- Prime Minister Trudeau has spoken with President Boric twice since his election in December 2021.
- 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 nearly 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, and the Organization of American States.
- The two countries also work together in the context of the Pacific Alliance, in which Canada is an observer and Candidate Associated State, and in the context of the Inclusive Trade Action Group and Global Trade and Gender Arrangement, alongside New Zealand and Mexico.
- Canada is among the top foreign study destinations for Chilean post-secondary students. Each year, over 725 Chileans travel to Canada with an International Experience Canada permit, which allows them to work for one year and study for up to six months in Canada.
Associated Links
May 30, 2022
Ottawa, Ontario
Keeping Canadians safe is the Government of Canada’s top priority. We know that one Canadian killed by gun violence is one too many, which is why, two years ago, we banned over 1,500 types of military-style assault firearms. We also strengthened our gun control laws to expand background checks and keep firearms out of the wrong hands. These measures are helping to keep our children and communities safe.
The Prime Minister, Justin Trudeau, today announced the introduction of new legislation to further strengthen gun control in Canada and keep Canadians safe from gun violence. Bill C-21 puts forward some of the strongest gun control measures in over 40 years.
These new measures include:
- Implementing a national freeze on handguns to prevent individuals from bringing newly acquired handguns into Canada and from buying, selling, and transferring handguns within the country.
- Taking away the firearms licenses of those involved in acts of domestic violence or criminal harassment, such as stalking.
- Fighting gun smuggling and trafficking by increasing criminal penalties, providing more tools for law enforcement to investigate firearms crimes, and strengthening border security measures.
- Addressing intimate partner violence, gender-based violence, and self-harm involving firearms by creating a new “red flag” law that would enable courts to require that individuals considered a danger to themselves or others surrender their firearms to law enforcement, while protecting the safety of the individual applying to the red flag process, including by protecting their identity. In addition, the government will invest $6.6 million to help raise awareness of the new law and provide supports to vulnerable and marginalized groups to navigate the provisions.
In addition to this new legislation, the Government of Canada will require long-gun magazines to be permanently altered so they can never hold more than five rounds and will ban the sale and transfer of large capacity magazines under the Criminal Code.
These are the measures that chiefs of police, families of survivors, doctors, and advocates have been asking us to take, and they build on the many concrete actions we have already taken. The Government of Canada will work with provinces, territories, Indigenous communities, and municipalities to implement these measures, and will continue to do whatever it takes to keep guns out of our communities and make Canada a safer country for everyone.
Quotes
“One Canadian killed by gun violence is one too many. I’ve seen all too well the tragic cost that gun violence has in our communities across the country. Today, we’re proposing some of the strongest measures in Canadian history to keep guns out of our communities and build a safer future for everyone.”
“We made a commitment to Canadians to tackle gun violence. The legislation we introduced today is part of our comprehensive strategy to promote safe and responsible gun laws, invest in law enforcement to stop organized crime and illegal gun smuggling at the border, and to invest in communities to address root causes and prevent gun crime from occurring in the first place. This legislation will help to reduce gun violence and keep Canadians safe.”
“Violent crime involving firearms has devastating impacts on communities across the country. This bill combines evidence-based policies and tougher Criminal Code penalties, among other measures, to better protect our communities. This includes people who are vulnerable to intimate partner violence and gender-based violence, and those who are at risk of hurting themselves. That is what we promised we would do, and that is what we are doing with this bill.”
Quick Facts
- To ensure the national freeze on handguns can be implemented swiftly, the Minister of Public Safety has already tabled regulatory amendments in both the House of Commons and the Senate. These regulations will help stop the growth of personally owned handguns in Canada and are expected to come into force in Fall 2022.
- In 2020, the Prime Minister announced the ban of over 1,500 models and variants of assault-style firearms. A buyback program will be introduced to offer fair compensation to affected owners and businesses.
- Going forward, we will also ensure military-style assault weapons are automatically prohibited when they enter the market. We will continue working to ensure any new weapons that fit the definition of assault-style weapon are captured.
- Earlier this year, the government announced an investment of $250 million through the Building Safer Communities Fund (BSCF) to help communities across the country prevent gun and gang violence by tackling its root causes, particularly for at-risk children.
- Budget 2021 provided more than $312 million in new funding to increase firearms tracing capacity and implement stronger border control measures to fight gun smuggling and trafficking. Law enforcement agencies seized more than double the number of firearms at the border in 2021, compared to 2020, which is also the highest number of firearms seized in recent years.
- The number of registered handguns in Canada increased by 71 per cent between 2010 and 2020, reaching approximately 1.1 million. Handguns were the most serious weapon present in the majority of firearm-related violent crimes (59 per cent) between 2009 and 2020.
- In 2018, firearms were present in over 600 intimate partner violence incidents in Canada. Victims of intimate partner violence are approximately five times more likely to be killed when a firearm is present in the home.
Associated Links
- Bill C-21, An Act to amend certain Acts and to make certain consequential amendments (firearms)
- Prime Minister announces ban on assault-style firearms
- Government takes action to prevent gun violence with $250 million Building Safer Communities Fund
- Homicide in Canada, 2020
- Trends in firearm-related violence crime in Canada, 2009 to 2020
June 2, 2022
Siksika, Alberta
Today, the Prime Minister, Justin Trudeau, and Chief Ouray Crowfoot of Siksika Nation, took part in a ceremony at Blackfoot Crossing Historical Park in Alberta to announce the signing of a historic $1.3 billion land claim settlement – one of the largest agreements of its kind reached in Canada.
This settlement aims to right past wrongs dating back over a century when the Government of Canada broke its Blackfoot Treaty (Treaty 7) promise and wrongfully took almost half of Siksika Nation’s reserve land, including some of the most productive agricultural and mineral-rich lands, to sell to settlers. The settlement agreement provides financial compensation to Siksika Nation to resolve several outstanding land claims and their related litigation.
Today’s announcement will make a real difference in people’s lives in Siksika Nation. It will create new opportunities to invest in community, culture, and economic development projects.
Across the country, the Government of Canada is addressing historical wrongs and the lasting impacts of colonialism, while supporting healing for First Nations. The co-development of this historic claim settlement with Siksika Nation is an important step forward to advance reconciliation and renew our nation-to-nation relationship based on mutual respect, cooperation, and partnership.
Quotes
“Today, we right a past wrong committed by the Government of Canada. This agreement is the culmination of over 60 years of relentless advocacy and leadership by Siksika Nation, whose people have fought to right this historic wrong. It is also an opportunity to look forward as we build a better future together – one that is based on nation-to-nation dialogue, partnership, and respect.”
“In order to move forward as a country, we will work together to address the harms of the past. This landmark settlement with Siksika Nation demonstrates our commitment to address injustices and build a renewed relationship. Today’s celebrations mark a turning point in our relationship with Siksika Nation, as we continue to move forward to strengthen our relationship and support Siksika’s vision of a better future for their people.”
“Settling this case, which dates back to 1910, is long overdue for the People of Siksika Nation. I want to make that clear: Canada is not giving $1.3 billion to Siksika. Canada is righting a wrong committed over a century ago when Canada illegally took 115,000 acres of lands provided to Siksika along with other illegal acts. Now that this case has been settled, the compensation from the settlement can assist Siksika to develop true financial sovereignty and provide more opportunities for our People. This case was filed in 1960 under Chief Clarence McHugh and many leaderships and technicians have worked tirelessly over several decades to see this day come to fruition. I want to take the time to share my gratitude for the leaders that came before us and other ancestors who help build the foundation we stand upon today.”
Quick Facts
- Blackfoot Treaty Flats, the location of today’s signing ceremony, is where Blackfoot Treaty (Treaty 7) was signed in 1877 between the Government of Canada and five First Nations, including the Siksika Nation.
- The 1910 Surrender Claim concerns 115,000 acres of Siksika’s Reserve and certain mineral rights taken by Canada.
- The settlement today also addresses longstanding claims related to the Bow River Irrigation District, the Canadian Pacific Railway Claim, and other land-based historical grievances.
- Under the settlement, Siksika can acquire over time up to 115,000 acres of land for addition to their reserve land base on a willing-seller/willing-buyer basis.
- There are a number of steps to be completed before land is given reserve status, including consultations with municipalities and other Indigenous groups.
- The land claim was first filed by Siksika Nation in court in 1960.
- In 2008, exploratory talks began between Siksika Nation and Canada to resolve these matters outside of the courts.
- In November 2021, negotiators for the parties initialed a settlement agreement.
- In December 2021, Siksika Nation members approved the settlement in a community vote. Over 77 per cent of eligible voters who voted were in favour of the settlement.
- In April 2022, Siksika Nation and Canada signed the settlement.
- To date, Canada has settled over 590 specific claims through negotiated settlements with First Nations across the country. This includes over 180 claims settled through negotiations since 2016.
Associated Links
May 29, 2022
Ottawa, Ontario
The Prime Minister, Justin Trudeau, today issued the following statement on the International Day of United Nations Peacekeepers:
“Today, we join the international community to honour all United Nations (UN) peacekeepers who have served – and continue to serve – with courage and dedication in peacekeeping missions around the world. We also remember those who lost their lives, including over 100 Canadians, or were injured while deployed.
“The Government of Canada has a long and proud history of supporting UN peacekeeping. For almost 70 years, more than 125,000 Canadians have served in UN peacekeeping operations, protecting people affected by conflicts by monitoring ceasefires and delivering humanitarian assistance, empowering women and girls, and promoting human rights around the world. They have represented the values our country holds dear: peace, freedom, and compassion.
“Canada continues to be a leader and strong supporter of peacekeeping initiatives. Through the Elsie Initiative for Women in Peace Operations, we are working alongside partners to increase the number of uniformed women in peace operations, to help achieve transformational change for peace operations. We are also helping to ensure that children remain children at all stages of a conflict through the Vancouver Principles, which help protect kids from becoming child soldiers.
“By continuing to support peacekeeping, Canada is helping to build a safer, more peaceful future for all. On behalf of all Canadians, I thank UN peacekeepers for their bravery, sacrifice, and dedication, and for helping make the world a safer place.”
May 27, 2022
Ottawa, Ontario
The Prime Minister, Justin Trudeau, today announced the following appointments to the National Security and Intelligence Review Agency:
Matthew Cassar becomes a member for a five-year term, effective May 26, 2022.
Dr. Foluke Laosebikan, Q.C., becomes a member for a five-year term, effective May 26, 2022.
The Prime Minister also announced the following changes:
Craig Forcese becomes Vice-Chair for the remainder of his current term ending in 2024, effective May 26, 2022.
John Davies is being reappointed as Executive Director, Secretariat of the National Security and Intelligence Review Agency for three years, effective August 12, 2022.
With full and independent authority, the National Security and Intelligence Review Agency 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
May 26, 2022
Ottawa, Ontario
Today, Prime Minister Justin Trudeau spoke with the President of the United Arab Emirates (UAE) and Ruler of Abu Dhabi, His Highness Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan.
Prime Minister Trudeau expressed his deepest condolences on the passing of the former United Arab Emirates President and Ruler of Abu Dhabi, His Highness Sheikh Khalifa bin Zayed Al Nahyan. He noted the profound legacy Sheikh Khalifa left behind for the people of the UAE and his influence on the world.
Prime Minister Trudeau recognized the strong leadership of Sheik Mohamed in the past and congratulated him on becoming the President of the United Arab Emirates and Ruler of Abu Dhabi. The Prime Minister and the President affirmed their commitment to deepening the strategic partnership between Canada and the United Arab Emirates.
Associated Links
- Canada-United Arab Emirates relations
- Statement by the Prime Minister on the election of His Highness Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan as President of the United Arab Emirates
- Prime Minister Justin Trudeau speaks with Crown Prince of Abu Dhabi His Highness Sheikh Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan
- Governor General ends successful visit to the Middle East
