Statement by the Prime Minister on Canada Day
July 1, 2024
Ottawa, Ontario
The Prime Minister, Justin Trudeau, today issued the following statement on Canada Day:
“Happy Canada Day!
“No matter where you are today, I hope you are celebrating the incredible people, the land, and the story that is Canada. It’s a story that began more than 157 years ago – with Indigenous Peoples who’ve called this land home since time immemorial.
“It’s a story of sacrifice. When Canadian soldiers stormed the beaches of Normandy, they knew they were risking their lives. But freedom – even for those across an ocean, even for generations of people they would never meet – was worth fighting for.
“It’s a story that includes injustices, ones that we are confronting on our path of reconciliation. It’s a story of learning – learning that we are stronger not in spite of our differences, but because of them.
“And it’s a story that is still being written, by incredible Canadians who step up for their community and country. From the workers and volunteers who cared for our most vulnerable during the pandemic, to the brave first responders who, right now, race toward danger to protect homes from wildfires, to the members of the Canadian Armed Forces who stand on the frontlines, defending democracy and freedom.
“Together, let’s keep improving this incredible place we all call home. Let’s make our communities more vibrant, dynamic, and inclusive. Let’s break barriers and create opportunity for everyone. Let’s build a future where every generation has a fair shot, no matter who you are, where you come from, how you pray, or who you love. And let’s work together to fulfil the promise of this country – a promise of peace, freedom, prosperity, and fairness.
“On this Canada Day, let’s celebrate everything we have achieved together and reaffirm our work to make Canada even better.”
June 28, 2024
Ottawa, Ontario
The Prime Minister, Justin Trudeau, today announced that the Governor General, Her Excellency the Right Honourable Mary Simon, appointed Victor Boudreau as an independent senator to fill a vacancy in the Senate for New Brunswick.
Mr. Boudreau has served the people of New Brunswick for more than 30 years. As a member of the Legislative Assembly of New Brunswick, he was minister of several portfolios, including Finance, Economic Development, and Health. He is a proud Acadian and an active member of his community, who has volunteered with numerous organizations to improve the life of people in his province, including the Comfort Life Network and the Rotary Club of Shediac. Mr. Boudreau continues to serve his community as Chief Administrative Officer of the Town of Shediac and as a member of the Association of Municipal Administrators of New Brunswick.
Quote
“Mr. Boudreau’s experience in a broad range of portfolios will be a great benefit to the Senate. I am confident that he will continue to be a strong voice for New Brunswick, Atlantic Canada, and Canadians from coast to coast to coast.”
— The Rt. Hon. Justin Trudeau, Prime Minister of Canada
Quick Facts
- The Senate is the Upper House in Canada’s parliamentary democracy. It unites a diverse group of accomplished Canadians in service of their country. Created to counterbalance representation by population in the House of Commons, the Senate not only defends regional interests, it also creates a space for the voices of historically underrepresented groups like Indigenous Peoples, racialized communities, and women.
- In 2016, the selection process for senators was opened to all Canadians. Candidate submissions are reviewed by the Independent Advisory Board for Senate Appointments, which provides recommendations to the Prime Minister. The Board is guided by public, transparent, non-partisan, and merit-based criteria to identify highly qualified candidates.
- With today’s announcement, there have been 82 independent appointments to the Senate made on the advice of Prime Minister Justin Trudeau. All of them were recommended by the Board.
- 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, new senators join their peers to examine and revise legislation, investigate national issues, and represent regional, provincial and territorial, and minority interests – important functions in a modern democracy.
Biographical Note
Associated Links
- Independent Advisory Board for Senate Appointments
- Senate Appointments Process – Questions and Answers
- Senate of Canada
June 28, 2024
Ottawa, Ontario
The Prime Minister, Justin Trudeau, today issued the following statement on Vladimir Kara-Murza:
“Last June, Canada’s House of Commons granted Vladimir Kara-Murza honorary citizenship and, shortly after, the Senate of Canada confirmed the same.
“In April 2022, after surviving two poisoning attempts orchestrated by the Kremlin, Vladimir Kara-Murza – an opposition leader and activist in Russia – was detained for speaking out against Vladimir Putin’s regime and its unjustifiable war of aggression against Ukraine. One year later, Mr. Kara-Murza was sentenced to 25 years in prison.
“Canada deplores Russia’s treatment of Mr. Kara-Murza and its continued disregard for democratic principles and universal human rights, including for its own people.
“Canada remains committed to holding Vladimir Putin responsible for his actions. In response to the rising levels of human rights violations in Russia and state-sponsored violence faced by political opponents and critics, we have imposed sanctions against senior officials of the Russian government, judiciary, investigative committees, and federally funded courts.
“Vladimir Kara-Murza’s courage and his dedication to democracy remind us all of our obligation to protect it.”
June 27, 2024
Ottawa, Ontario
The Prime Minister, Justin Trudeau, today issued the following statement on Canadian Multiculturalism Day:
“Today, on Canadian Multiculturalism Day, we celebrate multiculturalism – one of Canada’s greatest strengths.
“Canadians know that we’re stronger not in spite of our diversity, but because of it. That’s why, in 1988, we adopted the Canadian Multiculturalism Act, making Canada the first country to recognize multiculturalism as an official policy. Today, the Act serves as a guiding principle in ensuring every Canadian – no matter their background – has a fair chance to succeed.
“As we celebrate multiculturalism, we’re also making our communities more diverse, inclusive, and welcoming. We’re investing in cultural centres, museums, and festivals, so more communities can share their own stories. And through our renewed Anti-Racism Strategy, we’re making health care, housing, and the justice system fairer for everyone.
“On this Canadian Multiculturalism Day, let’s celebrate the diversity that makes us who we are. And let’s reaffirm our shared commitment to building a Canada where everyone can succeed.”
June 25, 2024
Vancouver, British Columbia
Today, the Government of Canada, the Government of British Columbia, and 17 First Nations are announcing the signing and launch of the Great Bear Sea Project Finance for Permanence (PFP) initiative. Building on many years of collaborative planning efforts, the Great Bear Sea PFP initiative creates a co-governance structure that aims to protect and conserve marine wildlife and habitats, advance ongoing Marine Protected Area (MPA) management and stewardship over the long-term, and create thousands of new jobs that will contribute to a sustainable coastal economy.
The Indigenous-led Great Bear Sea PFP initiative will bring $335 million in new investments to the area known as the Northern Shelf Bioregion and the Great Bear Sea. Contributions include $200 million from the Government of Canada, $60 million from the Province of British Columbia, and $75 million from philanthropic organizations in Canada and around the world. These investments will be leveraged with additional private revenue sources over time to support community-led economic development and diversification, long-term funding for Indigenous Guardian programs, and stewardship and management, including in MPAs.
For many years, First Nations have worked in partnership with the Government of Canada and the Government of British Columbia, with the involvement of stakeholders from industry sectors, as well as communities and local governments, to propose a design to guide the implementation of a MPA Network in the Great Bear Sea region, announced last year as the Northern Shelf Bioregion MPA Network Action Plan. The Great Bear Sea PFP initiative will support First Nations’ capacity through the next stages of planning and implementation of the MPA Network, as well as ongoing research, monitoring, and collaborative management with the Government of Canada and the Government of British Columbia.
The Great Bear Sea, also known as the Northern Shelf Bioregion, encompasses some of the most ecologically productive cold-water marine regions in the world. It includes globally significant populations of fish, whales, corals, seabirds, kelp forests, and other plant and animal species. The MPA Network will advance conservation efforts that protect and enhance culture, biodiversity, and thriving coastal communities for generations to come.
The MPA Network is expected to add an estimated 14,000 square kilometres of new marine protected areas to the 16,000 square kilometres of existing protected areas in the Great Bear Sea. Together, existing and new protected areas will encompass approximately 30 per cent of the Great Bear Sea. Specific designations and management plans for each MPA will be developed in consultation with First Nations, industry stakeholders, and the public.
Quotes
“Indigenous Peoples have been the stewards and caretakers of Canada’s vast lands and waters since time immemorial. Today’s announcement is an important step in our governments’ efforts to collaborate on and advance Indigenous-led projects that will protect the health of our marine ecosystems for future generations. We will continue to work together with Indigenous and coastal communities from coast to coast to coast to ensure Canada’s marine and coastal areas remain healthy, clean, and safe.”
— The Rt. Hon. Justin Trudeau, Prime Minister of Canada
“Canada is proud to be part of this historic Great Bear Sea Project Finance for Permanence initiative. More than ever, our government is committed to supporting Indigenous-led marine conservation initiatives that protect our shared coasts and oceans. We owe such concrete actions to our children, grandchildren, and great-grandchildren.”
— The Hon. Diane Lebouthillier, Minister of Fisheries, Oceans and the Canadian Coast Guard
“The signing of the Great Bear Sea Project Finance for Permanence initiative marks a historic step in protecting nature in Canada. The investments announced today provide a lifeline to the thousands of species inhabiting the Northern Shelf Bioregion, one of the most ecologically productive cold-water marine regions in the world. Our government launched the largest conservation campaign in Canada’s history, with the goal of protecting 30 per cent of lands and waters in Canada by 2030. From the start, we have turned to Indigenous partners to lead this work, as we acknowledge their traditional role as stewards of the lands and waters and their best positioning to restore healthy ecosystems. We want to protect these waters not just for our children, but for our grandchildren and every generation after that.”
— The Hon. Steven Guilbeault, Minister of Environment and Climate Change
“People in British Columbia share a deep connection to our coastal waters. They are a source of beauty, food, and economic opportunities. Through sustainable conservation financing, we will help secure the future of our marine ecosystems, fisheries, and coastal communities.”
— The Hon. David Eby, Premier of British Columbia
“We are partnering to take bold steps to protect our marine environment for generations to come. It’s a day that makes us all proud. Working alongside First Nations, the traditional stewards of these lands and waters, in true collaboration, is the only way we can meet our goals of protecting 30 per cent of British Columbia’s lands and waters by 2030.”
— The Hon. George Heyman, British Columbia’s Minister of Environment and Climate Change Strategy
“The creation of the Marine Protected Area Network in the Northern Shelf Bioregion, also known as the Great Bear Sea, will be the first of its kind in Canada. It is the product of a made-in-British Columbia collaborative approach that brings together Indigenous knowledge, cutting-edge science, and input from industry stakeholders to protect this precious marine area while growing our economy.”
— The Hon. Nathan Cullen, British Columbia’s Minister of Water, Land and Resource Stewardship
“This ground-breaking initiative, led by 17 First Nations, launches a new era of collaborative governance in marine conservation, stewardship, and Marine Protected Areas. It represents a beacon of hope for the future ‒ a future where ongoing management and stewardship are not just aspirations, but realities. Together we have forged a path where prosperous communities and stewardship go hand in hand, where economic growth is synonymous with environmental stewardship.”
— Chief Marilyn Slett, President of Coastal First Nations
“Today, we celebrate the results of First Nations, government, industry, stakeholders, and community members all working together to develop solutions that work for people and for nature. Our shared commitment to a healthy coast is what feeds our families today and will continue to sustain our communities, cultures, and economies, resulting in a better future for British Columbians and the world.”
— Dallas Smith, President of Na̲nwak̲olas Council
“With today’s announcement, First Nations are extending a successful model of collaborative stewardship, backed by durable conservation financing, from the rainforest to the sea. We look forward to continuing to work closely with First Nations, supporting them to invest in their community prosperity and marine stewardship programs which, in turn, will strengthen coastal communities and economies.”
— Eddy Adra, Chief Executive Officer of Coast Funds
Quick Facts
- Project Finance for Permanence (PFP) provides multi-partner investments and sustainable financing for large-scale conservation and sustainable development projects. These initiatives bring together Indigenous organizations, governments, and the philanthropic community to identify shared goals for protecting nature and ultimately halting biodiversity loss while advancing community well-being and reconciliation with Indigenous Peoples.
- In recent years, the Government of Canada has made historic investments in Indigenous-led conservation projects, including through initiatives like the Indigenous Guardians program.
- In 2022, during COP15 in Montréal, Quebec, the federal government pledged to deliver up to $800 million in support of up to four Indigenous-led PFP initiatives, including the Great Bear Sea PFP.
- Grounded in science, Indigenous knowledge, and local perspectives, Canada is committed to working with partners across the country to conserve 30 per cent of lands and waters by 2030.
- The approximately 30,000 square kilometres of the existing and proposed protected areas in the MPA Network is close in size to Vancouver Island.
- The 17 First Nations participating in the Great Bear Sea PFP are the Haida Nation, Gitga’at First Nation, Gitxaała Nation, Haisla Nation, Kitselas First Nation, Kitsumkalum Band, Metlakatla First Nation, Heiltsuk Nation, Kitasoo Xai’xais Nation, Nuxalk Nation, Wuikinuxv Nation, Da’naxda’xw-Awaetlala Nation, K’omoks First Nation, Kwiakah First Nation, Mamalilikulla First Nation, Tlowitsis Nation, and Wei Wai Kum First Nation.
- In 2023, the Government of British Columbia announced a $60-million contribution to the Great Bear Sea PFP and the Marine Plan Partnership (MaPP) to help protect vital coastal ecosystems, create new jobs, and advance sustainable fisheries and economic opportunities in the Great Bear Sea, in partnership with First Nations and donors.
- Coast Funds is an Indigenous-led conservation finance organization established in 2007 to partner with First Nations in achieving their goals for conservation, stewardship, and conservation-based economic development. Coast Funds is the fund administrator for the Great Bear Sea PFP.
- Since 2007, investments by Coast Funds from the Great Bear Rainforest Agreements have created more than 1,250 new jobs and 120 new businesses in the region. Learn more.
- The Great Bear Sea, also known as the Northern Shelf Bioregion, includes 102,000 square kilometres of culturally and environmentally significant ocean.
- Marine Protected Areas (MPAs) play a critical role in preserving and enhancing biodiversity and ecological integrity of marine ecosystems. MPA Networks are collections of individual MPAs that operate co-operatively and fulfill ecological and economic goals more effectively than individual MPAs.
- In 2023, leaders from 15 First Nations joined the Government of Canada and the Government of British Columbia to jointly endorse an MPA Network Action Plan in the Great Bear Sea at the Fifth International Marine Protected Area Congress (IMPAC5).
- Once the MPA Network Action Plan is fully implemented, the MPA Network is expected to cover 30 per cent of the Great Bear Sea, including new protected areas and potential enhancements to existing MPAs.
- A core component and priority of the Great Bear Sea MPA Network is the creation of a 7,800 square kilometres National Marine Conservation Area Reserve (NMCAR) on the Central Coast of British Columbia. An NMCAR would protect marine ecosystems and biodiversity as well as culturally important values and features, which support the well-being of Indigenous Peoples, coastal communities, and a diverse range of marine sectors.
- The Wuikinuxv, Heiltsuk, Nuxalk, Kitasoo Xai’xais, Gitga’at, and Gitxaała First Nations, the Government of Canada, and the Government of British Columbia have concluded a feasibility assessment for a Central Coast NMCAR, and the partners will now begin transitioning into establishment agreement negotiations consistent with the PFP closing agreement.
Related Product
Associated Links
- Our Great Bear Sea
- Coastal First Nations
- Na̲nwak̲olas Council
- Coast Funds
- MPA Network
- Indigenous Guardians
- British Columbia’s Ministry of Water, Land and Resource Stewardship
- Protecting more nature in partnership with Indigenous Peoples
June 25, 2024
Ottawa, Ontario
The Prime Minister, Justin Trudeau, today announced the following change in the senior ranks of the public service:
Cynthia (Cindy) Termorshuizen, currently Associate Deputy Minister of Foreign Affairs and Personal Representative of the Prime Minister (Sherpa) for the G7 Summit, becomes Deputy Minister for the G7 Summit and Personal Representative of the Prime Minister (Sherpa) for the G7 and G20 Summits.
The Prime Minister also thanked Christopher MacLennan for his service as Personal Representative of the Prime Minister for the G20 Summit as well as his continued dedication to serve Canadians as Deputy Minister of International Development.
Biographical Note
June 24, 2024
Ottawa, Ontario
The Prime Minister, Justin Trudeau, today issued the following statement on la Fête nationale du Québec:
“Today, on the 190th anniversary of la Fête nationale du Québec, I join Quebecers in celebrating the rich history, heritage, and cultural dynamics of la Belle Province.
“All Quebecers can be proud of their province’s influence within Canada and around the world. Generation after generation, the French language and Francophone culture have continued to shape Canada’s identity. That’s why are working to strengthen their vibrancy across the country, including through the Action Plan for Official Languages 2023-2028. This plan sets out a range of ambitious measures to advance the equality of Canada’s two official languages, strengthen Francophone immigration, and protect Francophone minority communities and their culture from coast to coast to coast, in addition to protecting and promoting French within Quebec.
“The theme of this year’s Fête nationale du Québec is ‘Let’s meet under the stars’. All Quebecers are invited to come together and shine, like the stars in the night sky that have watched their nation flourish. I encourage all Quebecers, and all Canadians, to take part in these festivities that will showcase both the traditions and the modernity of Quebec.
“On behalf of the Government of Canada, I extend my best wishes to Quebecers and to all those celebrating la Fête nationale du Québec.”
