Prime Minister of Canada Justin Trudeau

 President of the United States Joe Biden to visit Canada

March 9, 2023
Ottawa, Ontario

The Prime Minister, Justin Trudeau, today announced that the President of the United States, Joe Biden, will visit Canada on March 23 to 24, 2023 to continue working closely together to strengthen trade ties, create good jobs, grow the middle class, and drive economic growth that benefits everyone on both sides of the border. They will also continue to increase collaboration on defence and security, climate action, and immigration.

With the Canada-United States-Mexico Agreement as the foundation, Prime Minister Trudeau and President Biden will underscore the importance of our mutually beneficial economic relationship to bolster competitiveness and build resilient supply chains, including on critical minerals – the building blocks for the clean economy. They will also discuss the progress made under the February 2021 Roadmap for a Renewed U.S.-Canada Partnership to advance bilateral cooperation on shared priorities including taking ambitious climate action and advancing countries where no one is left behind.

Keeping North Americans safe from new and emerging threats requires a coordinated response. During the visit, the Prime Minister and the President will highlight ongoing cooperation on continental defence, including NORAD’s key role in defending North America. They will also advance cooperation in the Arctic.

Prime Minister Trudeau and President Biden will also continue to cooperate on global issues of mutual interest including continuing their unwavering support for Ukraine as it defends itself against Russia’s war of aggression and advancing solutions to the broader global impacts of the war like food and energy security. They will also continue to support the people of Haiti and Haitian-led efforts to address the ongoing crisis. The leaders will further commit to advancing our countries’ shared priorities in the Indo-Pacific region, including national security, economic prosperity, respect for international law and human rights, democratic values, public health, and protecting our environment.

Canada and the United States are steadfast partners in upholding democracy, human rights, and respect for the rule of law, and we will always work together to defend these shared values in our countries and beyond.

Prime Minister Justin Trudeau...

 $10-a-day child care soon a reality for families in Manitoba

March 3, 2023
Winnipeg, Manitoba

Families across Canada know that affordable child care is not a luxury ‒ it is a necessity. With global inflation driving up the cost of living and making it harder for families to make ends meet, the Government of Canada has been working with provinces and territories to deliver on our promise of $10-a-day child care – putting more money back in the pockets of Canadian families, driving economic growth that benefits everyone, and giving children the best possible start in life.

The Prime Minister, Justin Trudeau, and the Premier of Manitoba, Heather Stefanson, today announced that Manitoba will achieve an average of $10-a-day regulated child care on April 2, 2023 – three years ahead of the national target. This milestone achievement could save families hundreds of dollars per child, per month on average.

Prime Minister Justin Trudeau latest

 Prime Minister Justin Trudeau speaks with Prime Minister of Jamaica Andrew Holness

February 27, 2023
Ottawa, Ontario

Yesterday, Prime Minister Justin Trudeau spoke with the Prime Minister of Jamaica, Andrew Holness.

The prime ministers discussed the ongoing crisis in Haiti, including the important role of the Caribbean Community (CARICOM) and emphasized the need for continued support of a Haitian-led solution to the crisis it is facing.

The leaders also discussed the significance of the CARICOM mission to Haiti led by Prime Minister Holness scheduled to take place today. The leaders exchanged on the importance of engaging with a wide range of Haitian stakeholders as a means of better understanding the needs of the Haitian people and how best to provide support.

Prime Minister Trudeau welcomed CARICOM’s role in helping to facilitate an inclusive political dialogue and underscored the importance of increasing the capabilities of the Haitian National Police to bring stability to the country.

The two leaders agreed to remain in close contact.

Associated Links

• Canada-Jamaica relations
• Canada and Latin America and the Caribbean
• Prime Minister strengthens ties with the Caribbean, announces new support for the Haitian people
• Prime Minister Justin Trudeau meets with Prime Minister of Jamaica Andrew Holness
• Forty-Fourth Regular Meeting of the Conference of Heads of Government of CARICOM

Statement by the Prime Minister on Ukraine’s Day of Resistance to the Occupation of the Autonomous Republic of Crimea and the City of Sevastopol

February 26, 2023
Ottawa, Ontario

The Prime Minister, Justin Trudeau, today issued the following statement on Ukraine’s Day of Resistance to the Occupation of the Autonomous Republic of Crimea and the City of Sevastopol:

“Today, we mark Ukraine’s Day of Resistance and reaffirm our commitment to always stand with the Ukrainian people in their fight for a free and independent Ukraine.

“Nine years ago, on February 26, 2014, an estimated 10,000 Ukrainians bravely rallied outside the Crimean Parliament building in Simferopol to protest Russia’s attempt to illegally annex Crimea from Ukraine. It was the largest gathering of its kind in Ukrainian history.

“Now, one year since Russia’s full-scale invasion of Ukraine, we are yet again reminded of the bravery of people of Ukraine, who continue to make immense sacrifices in service of their country. We stand in solidarity with the missing and the displaced, and with the families of those who lost their lives. Every day, Ukrainians continue to show their courage and resilience as they defend themselves and their country from Russia’s brutal attacks on people, including its repeated human rights violations, and targeting of Ukraine’s critical infrastructure.

“The international community’s support is critical to Ukraine’s success. Last year alone, Canada committed over $5 billion in assistance to Ukraine, including well over $1 billion in military aid. We have imposed severe sanctions on key Russian individuals and entities and, together with our allies, we are supporting Ukrainian troops with training through Operation UNIFIER. And we are providing Ukraine with eight Leopard 2 main battle tanks and donating a National Advanced Surface-to-Air Missile System (NASAMS) – an air defence system that protects against drone, missile, and aircraft attack.

“On Ukraine’s Day of Resistance, Canada reaffirms its commitment to Ukrainians and the principles they’re fighting for – democracy, justice, and freedom. We will continue to use every tool at our disposal to support Ukraine, for as long as it takes.

“As Ukrainians continue to fight for the land that is rightfully theirs, today we reiterate that Crimea is, and will always be, Ukraine.”

Statement by the Prime Minister on the death of Gordon Pinsent

February 26, 2023
Ottawa, Ontario

The Prime Minister, Justin Trudeau, today issued the following statement on the death of Gordon Pinsent:

“It was with profound sadness that I learned yesterday about the passing of Canadian icon Gordon Pinsent – one of the country’s most prolific and beloved actors.

“Born in Grand Falls, N.L., Mr. Pinsent had a storied career, spanning over six decades, as an actor, writer, director and singer. He will be fondly remembered for his many roles in Canadian shows and films, including Away From Her, The Rowdyman, The Forest Rangers, The Red Green Show, Due South, The Grand Seduction, Street Legal, Republic of Doyle, and as the voice of Babar the Elephant.

“He won every major acting prize in the country, including two ACTRA awards, three Genie awards, five Gemini awards, and a Dora Mavor Moore award. Over the course of his career, Mr. Pinsent was named a Companion of the Order of Canada and a fellow of the Royal Society of Canada. He also received the Governor General's Performing Arts Award, the Earle Grey Award for lifetime achievement in television, and was honoured with a star on Canada’s Walk of Fame in 2007.

“Mr. Pinsent loved his province and his country deeply. He entertained millions around the world and inspired us to say ‘yes’ to doing the things we love and to pursuing our dreams. On behalf of all Canadians, I extend my deepest condolences to his family, his friends, and his many fans.”

Supporting Ukraine for as long as it takes

February 24, 2023
Toronto, Ontario

One year ago today, Putin launched a brutal full-scale invasion of Ukraine. In the face of the immense human suffering, appalling human rights violations, and cruelty inflicted upon the people of an independent and sovereign nation, Ukraine still stands strong. The Ukrainian people have bravely stood up to the Russian regime, in defence of their sovereignty, territorial integrity, and independence – and our shared values of democracy and freedom. The Government of Canada will stand with the people of Ukraine for as long as it takes.

Today, the Prime Minister announced new measures to continue supporting the people of Ukraine, including with new military equipment and additional sanctions.

Prime Minister Trudeau announced that Canada will provide four additional Leopard 2 main battle tanks to support the Armed Forces of Ukraine in defence of their country, growing our contribution to eight tanks in total. Canada will also provide an armoured recovery vehicle and over 5,000 rounds of 155 mm ammunition. The four previously announced Leopard 2 main battle tanks have been delivered to Poland and a Canadian Armed Forces team of trainers is currently training Ukrainian tank crews.

To increase pressure on Putin’s regime, the Prime Minister announced that Canada is imposing new sanctions on individuals and entities complicit in Russia’s ongoing war against Ukraine. These new measures, which build on the sanctions we have already implemented the past year, include:

• Sanctioning 122 individuals and 13 entities, including members of the lower house of Russia’s parliament who have voted in favour of legislation related to the invasion and attempted annexation of four regions of Ukraine. Other sanctioned individuals include Russian Deputy Prime Ministers, Ministers, and others in the Office of the President of Russia and the Russian military, as well as family members of previously sanctioned individuals;
• Sanctioning seven Russian individuals and 50 defence entities involved in Russia’s defence industry, including the production of tanks, missiles, and weapons systems that Russia is using in Ukraine; and
• Prohibiting the export to Russia of certain chemical elements for use in electronics, and banning the import, purchase, or acquisition of Russian arms, ammunition, and other weapons, wherever situated or processed, from Russia or from any person in Russia.

In addition, Canada is further combatting Russian and Belarusian deception by tackling their unfair trade practices. We are calling out those countries for intervening to artificially lower the price of their goods. This measure ensures that the Canada Border Services Agency has the tools it needs to protect Canadian producers from competing against unfair foreign government price distortions on imports, which have become increasingly evident since the invasion of Ukraine.

Today, the Minister of Foreign Affairs, Mélanie Joly, announced more than $32 million in support of security and stabilization in the country. This includes contributions to demining and accountability efforts, as well as countering chemical, biological, radiological, and nuclear threats that jeopardize the safety of the entire region.

As we mark one year since Russia launched its full-scale invasion of Ukraine, we pay tribute to the lives tragically lost to the brutality of Russia’s senseless war, and we honour the Ukrainians who continue to fight. We will always stand united and steadfast in solidarity with Ukraine and in the fight to protect their country, and freedom and democracy everywhere.

Quotes

“Putin thought his invasion would be a quick victory, but he was mistaken. Ukrainians have stood strong over the last 365 days and counting, and as Russia continues its brutal war against Ukraine, Canada and Canadians will stand by the Ukrainian people for as long as it takes.”

The Rt. Hon. Justin Trudeau, Prime Minister of Canada

“In seeking to erase Ukraine from the map and its story from history, Putin is trying to show that tyranny can defeat democracy. Instead, the brave people of Ukraine, in their heroic resistance, are ensuring that Ukraine will survive, and democracy will prevail. Canada will stand by Ukraine’s side for as long as it takes, and we will continue to do everything we can to hold Putin and his regime accountable for their illegal and barbaric war.”

The Honourable Chrystia Freeland, Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Finance

“For one year, President Putin and his war machine have been trying to squash Ukrainian resolve through unrelenting attacks on their homeland. But Ukrainians continue to stand against tyranny and fight for what is rightfully theirs. Their spirit is unbreakable, and so is our support for them. Canada stands with Ukraine, and we will continue to do so for as long as it takes.”

The Honourable Mélanie Joly, Minister of Foreign Affairs

“Canada is continuing to provide Ukraine with the comprehensive military aid it needs to defend its territory and people against ongoing Russian aggression. Canada has trained 35,000 Ukrainian personnel through Operation UNIFIER, we have donated over $1 billion in military aid, and our Canadian Armed Forces personnel have transported over seven million pounds of Ukraine-bound donations. Ukraine will win and Canada will be there until the end.”

The Honourable Anita Anand, Minister of National Defence

Quick Facts

• Since Russia’s illegal occupation and attempted annexation of Crimea in 2014, Canada has imposed sanctions on more than 2,400 individuals and entities. Many of these sanctions have been undertaken in coordination with Canada’s allies and partners.
• In 2022, Canada committed over $5 billion in direct financial, military, humanitarian, and immigration assistance to Ukraine. This includes $2.5 billion in direct economic support, all of which has been provided, including:
  • $320 million in humanitarian assistance for emergency health services, protection, support to displaced populations and essential life-saving services such as shelter, water and sanitation, and food.
  • $1.95 billion in loan resources through the Administered Account for Ukraine at the International Monetary Fund (IMF) that Canada championed ($500 million of which represents equivalent proceeds from the Ukraine Sovereignty Bond);
  • $500 million in direct bilateral loans; and
  • A €36.5 million (approximately $50 million) European Bank for Reconstruction and Development loan guarantee to facilitate support to Ukraine’s Naftogaz.
• As part of our overall contribution, Canada has also committed $115 million to the World Bank Group’s Ukraine Relief, Recovery, Reconstruction and Reform Trust Fund (URTF) to help Ukraine repair its energy infrastructure. Canada has also temporarily removed trade tariffs on Ukrainian imports.
• Canadian Armed Forces members are supporting the Armed Forces of Ukraine in the United Kingdom and Poland under Operation UNIFIER, providing training on a range of military skills. Between 2015 and 2023, Canada trained more than 35,000 members of Ukraine’s security forces as part of Operation UNIFIER.
• The Canadian Armed Forces have been assisting with the delivery of military aid for Ukraine from Canada and on behalf of our allies and partners, having transported over seven million pounds of military donations since March 2022.
• Since February 2022, Canada has committed over $1 billion in military assistance to Ukraine. This includes four Leopard 2 main battle tanks, over 200 armoured personnel carriers, a National Advanced Surface-to-Air Missile System (NASAMS) with associated munitions, 39 armoured combat support vehicles, anti-tank weapons, small arms, M777 howitzers and associated ammunition, high-resolution drone cameras, winter clothing, and more.
• Canada is helping Ukrainian families find a safe, temporary home in Canada, and has put in place support services to help them after they arrive. This includes temporary financial assistance and access to federally funded settlement services, such as language training and employment-related services.
• Streamlining current visa and travel requirements, the Canada-Ukraine Authorization for Emergency Travel program is the fastest, safest, and most efficient way for Ukrainians and their family members to come to Canada. As of February 16, 2023, close to 560,000 applications have been approved. 
• The government has introduced legislative changes to the Immigration and Refugee Protection Act to ensure foreign nationals subject to sanctions under the Special Economic Measures Act are inadmissible to Canada, banning sanctioned Russians from entering the country. These changes will allow the Canada Border Services Agency to deny entry to, and remove, individuals subjected to sanctions, and will allow Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada officials to deny visas.

Associated Links

• Sanctions – Russian invasion of Ukraine
• Canadian Sanctions Related to Russia
• Canada’s response to the Russian invasion of Ukraine
• Canadian donations and military support to Ukraine
• Canada’s engagement in Ukraine
• G7 Leaders’ Statement
• Canada to increase support for security and stabilization efforts in Ukraine
• Prime Minister announces news measures to support Ukraine
• Minister Joly travels to Ukraine to discuss ongoing and unwavering Canadian support for Ukraine

Prime Minister, Justin Trudeau, today issued the following statement on..

Statement by the Prime Minister on National Flag of Canada Day

February 15, 2023
Ottawa, Ontario

The Prime Minister, Justin Trudeau, today issued the following statement on National Flag of Canada Day:

“Today, I join Canadians across the country and around the world to celebrate the National Flag of Canada. On this day in 1965, one of our country’s most well-known symbols – the maple leaf – was raised on Parliament Hill for the first time.

“The flag has since been launched into space and brought to the highest point on earth. For 58 years, it has flown at ports, airports, schools, and libraries across the country and at Canada’s diplomatic missions around the world. Wherever it flies, the Maple Leaf Flag stands for the values we embody as Canadians: peace, freedom, openness, generosity, and diversity.

“The maple tree, with its vibrant autumn colours, is a prominent feature of the landscape in many parts of Canada. Long before the arrival of settlers, many First Nations used the maple tree for its sweet sap and its versatile wood. Over the years, the maple leaf became a symbol of Canada and in the 19th century, it became synonymous with Canadian identity. Whether depicted in books or songs, or carved on the headstones of the Canadian service men and women who gave their lives for their country, the maple leaf is a powerful symbol that unites us.

“On this National Flag of Canada Day, we celebrate the promise the Maple Leaf Flag stands for: that as a people, Canadians strive for peace, unity that respects our diversity, and a better world where no one is left behind.”

Prime Minister strengthens ties with the Caribbean, announces new support for the Haitian people

February 16, 2023
Nassau, The Bahamas

The Prime Minister, Justin Trudeau, today concluded his visit to Nassau, The Bahamas, where he worked with leaders of the Caribbean Community (CARICOM) to continue advancing support for the Haitian people amidst the crisis in their country, while also strengthening ties with the region, driving economic growth, creating good jobs, and fighting climate change.

While in Nassau, the Prime Minister worked closely with leaders to help address the political, security, and humanitarian crisis in Haiti. He announced $10 million in new funding to protect Haitian women and children along the Haiti-Dominican Republic border.

Canada has also committed $12.3 million to address the food and nutrition needs of vulnerable populations, help meet the safety and emergency sexual and reproductive health needs of vulnerable women and girls, prevent and respond to gender-based violence, and provide water, sanitation and hygiene to address and prevent cholera.

Prime Minister Trudeau also announced that Canada has imposed additional sanctions against two Haitian elites who provide financial or operational support to gangs and are inflicting violence on the Haitian people. Canada will continue to provide support to bolster the capacity of the Haitian National Police to respond to the crisis, including by delivering three additional Haitian-purchased Mine-Resistant Ambush Protected (MRAP) vehicles. Today, Canada announced that we will deploy two Royal Canadian Navy Kingston-Class ships to Haiti in the coming weeks in response to Haiti’s request for assistance as violence continues to escalate in the country. As a steadfast partner of Haiti, Canada will continue to support an inclusive political dialogue in Haiti, lay the foundation for free and fair elections, and help Haitians restore peace and security in their country. During his bilateral meeting with the Prime Minister of Haiti, Prime Minister Trudeau urged Prime Minister Henry to bolster political consensus around the High Transitional Council.

In Nassau, Prime Minister Trudeau also announced $44.8 million in new initiatives to help support CARICOM in addressing the climate crisis by protecting more biodiversity, and improving climate resilience and disaster preparedness. Canada will continue to advocate for small island and low-lying states in the Caribbean, who are particularly vulnerable to the impacts of climate change like rising sea levels and extreme weather events.

The Prime Minister also announced $1.8 million in new initiatives to help tackle escalating regional security challenges, including by targeting illicit drugs, the opioid crisis, irregular migration, and strengthening border and maritime security.

Prime Minister Trudeau also announced $11.48 million in new initiatives, including $2.5 million in Maternal, Newborn and Child Health (MNCH) services for Indigenous people and other communities residing in the remote hinterland lacking access to quality health care and $8.98 million to the Empowering the Next Generation: Agency and Gender Equality for Youth (ENGAGE) project to support the foundation of a more empowered and equal generation of young people in Guyana.

While at the 44th Meeting of the Conference of Heads of Government of CARICOM, which he attended as special guest, Prime Minister Trudeau signaled Canada’s commitment to keep working with the region. He announced that Canada will be taking on the role of Chair of Caribbean Development Bank’s (CDB) Board of Governors in June 2023 and will host the Board’s Annual Meeting in Canada in 2024.

Quote

“Canada and CARICOM are united in longstanding partnerships and shared priorities. There are a lot of challenges we need to work together on: supporting the people of Haiti, delivering climate action and improving resilience, finding new economic opportunities for our businesses and workers, and above all, putting people at the centre of everything we do.”

The Rt. Hon. Justin Trudeau, Prime Minister of Canada

Quick Facts

• The Caribbean Community (CARICOM) is a regional organization, now celebrating its 50th anniversary, established by the Treaty of Chaguaramas on July 4, 1973.
• Since July 2022, Canada has responded to the deteriorating security and humanitarian crisis by providing economic, humanitarian, development, and security assistance to Haiti, including deploying a CP-140 Aurora long-range patrol aircraft to provide intelligence, surveillance, and reconnaissance capability to support Canada’s efforts to disrupt the activities of gangs in Haiti, airlifting commercial deliveries of specialized vehicles to Haiti to support the efforts of the Haitian National Police to combat gang violence against Haitian citizens and providing more than $98 million in international assistance to respond to the urgent and basic needs of the population, including combatting food insecurity, improving sexual and reproductive health and rights for women and girls, to provide medical and psychosocial support to survivors of sexual and gender-based violence, to protect women and girls and to strengthen the security and judicial sectors.
• While at the Meeting of the Conference of Heads of Government of CARICOM, Prime Minister Trudeau reiterated Canada’s ongoing commitment to growing our trade ties with CARICOM countries and building on the efforts made under the Commonwealth Caribbean Countries Tariff (CARIBCAN) program.
  • CARIBCAN was launched by Canada at the Commonwealth Heads of Government meeting in Nassau in 1985 to improve the trade and economic development prospects of the region, promote new investment opportunities, and encourage economic integration and co-operation. It provides duty-free access into Canada to most goods originating from Commonwealth Caribbean countries.
  • CARIBCAN is legislated in Canada’s Customs Tariff Act and does not have an expiry date but, as a matter of administration, Canada periodically seeks and receives a waiver from the World Trade Organization for CARIBCAN.
• In Nassau, Prime Minister Trudeau reiterated Canada's commitment to implementing the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development and accelerating progress on all SDGs to address today’s most pressing social, economic and environmental challenges
• During his visit to Nassau, Prime Minister Trudeau met with:
  • The Prime Minister of The Bahamas, Philip Davis
  • The Prime Minister of Barbados, Mia Mottley
  • The Prime Minister of Jamaica, Andrew Holness
  • The Prime Minister of Haiti, Ariel Henry
• CARICOM is comprised of 15 Full Members and five Associate Members. The Full Members are Antigua and Barbuda, The Bahamas, Barbados, Belize, Dominica, Grenada, Guyana, Haiti, Jamaica, Montserrat, Saint Lucia, Saint Kitts and Nevis, Saint Vincent and the Grenadines, Suriname, and Trinidad and Tobago.
• The Conference of Heads of Government of CARICOM meets twice a year at regular and inter-sessional meetings, in summer and winter respectively.
• In 2021, Canada’s two-way merchandise trade with CARICOM countries reached $1.9 billion. In 2021, bilateral trade in services reached $3.9 billion.
• The chairmanship of the Caribbean Development Bank’s (CDB) Board of Governors will be handed to Canada from Saint Lucia at this year’s meeting in June 2023. The Minister of International Development and Minister responsible for the Pacific Economic Development Agency of Canada, Harjit S. Sajjan, is Canada’s Governor to the CDB.

Related Products

• Backgrounder: Canada announces $44.8 million in new funding to support the CARICOM in addressing the climate crisis
• Sanctions: Grave breach of international peace and security in Haiti
• Prime Minister to travel to The Bahamas to meet with Caribbean Community (CARICOM) leaders

Associated Links

• Canada-Bahamas relations
• Canada and Latin America and the Caribbean
• Prime Minister to travel to The Bahamas to meet with Caribbean Community (CARICOM) leaders
• Caribbean Community (CARICOM)

 

Prime Minister Justin Trudeau meets with Prime Minister of Jamaica Andrew Holness

February 16, 2023
Nassau, The Bahamas

Today, Prime Minister Justin Trudeau met with the Prime Minister of Jamaica, Andrew Holness.

The two leaders discussed strengthening the bilateral relationship and their shared priorities, which include clean economic growth, climate resilience and biodiversity, access to concessional finance, disaster preparedness, and regional defence and security cooperation.

As co-chairs of the United Nations Financing for Development in the Era of COVID-19 and Beyond Initiative, the prime ministers highlighted the importance of mobilizing international cooperation on financing for development to achieve the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals.

The prime ministers discussed the ongoing crisis in Haiti and underscored the need for continued support for the Haitian people, including through convening inclusive political dialogue and strengthening the capacity of the Haitian National Police.

The two leaders agreed to remain in touch on these important priorities.

Associated Links

• Canada-Jamaica relations
• Canada and Latin America and the Caribbean
• Prime Minister strengthens ties with the Caribbean, announces new support for the Haitian people
• Forty-Fourth Regular Meeting of the Conference of Heads of Government of CARICOMPrime Minister Justin Trudeau meets with Prime Minister of Barbados Mia Mottley
  
  February 16, 2023
  Nassau, The Bahamas
  
  

  Today, Prime Minister Justin Trudeau met with the Prime Minister of Barbados, Mia Mottley.

  The leaders discussed their ambitions for mobilizing the international community to make progress on the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), in their roles as co-chairs of UN Secretary-General’s SDG Advocates group.

  The prime ministers talked about Prime Minister Mottley’s Bridgetown Initiative to modernize the global financial architecture. Prime Minister Trudeau said that Canada would continue to champion the interests of CARICOM and Small Island and Low-Lying Coastal Developing States (SIDS), particularly on shared interests such as climate resilience and access to concessional finance. Prime Minister Mottley thanked Prime Minister Trudeau for Canada’s leadership in helping to strengthen financial governance in the Caribbean region.

  The leaders discussed the ongoing crisis in Haiti and underscored the need for continued support for the Haitian people, including through convening inclusive political dialogue and strengthening the capacity of the Haitian National Police.

  The two leaders agreed to continue working closely together over the coming year.

  Associated Links

  • Canada-Barbados relations
  • Canada and Latin America and the Caribbean
  • Prime Minister strengthens ties with the Caribbean, announces new support for the Haitian people
  • Forty-Fourth Regular Meeting of the Conference of Heads of Government of CARICOMPrime Minister Justin Trudeau meets with Prime Minister of Haiti Ariel Henry
    
    February 16, 2023
    Nassau, The Bahamas
    
    

    Today, Prime Minister Justin Trudeau met with the Prime Minister of Haiti, Ariel Henry.

    Prime Minister Trudeau conveyed his deep concern about the crisis in Haiti, where Haitians continue to face gang violence, including indiscriminate attacks, sexual and gender-based violence, destruction of homes, and mass displacement. Prime Minister Henry thanked Canada for providing much-needed security equipment and assistance to bolster the Haitian National Police’s capacity to combat armed gangs.

    The two leaders discussed Prime Minister Henry’s political accord of December 21, 2022, and the establishment of the High Transition Council. Prime Minister Trudeau underscored the need for inclusive political dialogue to pave the way for free and fair elections and foster democratic stability.

    Prime Minister Trudeau and Prime Minister Henry discussed the important role of CARICOM, of which Haiti is a member, in helping to convene political dialogue in support of a Haitian-led solution to the crisis.

    The two leaders agreed to remain in contact.

    Associated Links

    • Canada-Haiti relations
    • Canada and Latin America and the Caribbean
    • Canada deploys two Kingston-class ships to Haiti in response to the worsening security crisis
    • Prime Minister strengthens ties with the Caribbean, announces new support for the Haitian people
    • Forty-Fourth Regular Meeting of the Conference of Heads of Government of CARICOM

The Prime Minister, Justin Trudeau, today issued the following statement...

 Statement by the Prime Minister on the International Day Against the Use of Child Soldiers

February 12, 2023
Ottawa, Ontario

The Prime Minister, Justin Trudeau, today issued the following statement on the International Day Against the Use of Child Soldiers, also known as Red Hand Day:

“Children should never be used as weapons of war. A child’s right to a safe, protective, and supportive environment is everyone’s responsibility. On this International Day Against the Use of Child Soldiers, Canada reaffirms its unwavering commitment to end the recruitment and use of children in armed conflicts.

“Approximately 450 million children worldwide live in conflict-affected areas, including many displaced by war. In these situations, children can be forced to experience, witness, or participate in acts of violence, which causes resulting physical, physiological, and emotional harm that can have lifelong impacts.

“The Government of Canada is committed to helping children live and grow in safety here at home, and around the world. In 2017, Canada introduced the Vancouver Principles on Peacekeeping and the Prevention of the Recruitment and Use of Child Soldiers. Endorsed by 106 member states of the United Nations, the Vancouver Principles prioritize the prevention of the recruitment and use of child soldiers during a peacekeeping mission. These principles ensure that all peacekeepers – military, police, and civilian – are prepared to act decisively and effectively to help prevent child recruitment. Canada also established the Dallaire Centre of Excellence for Peace and Security to prepare the Canadian Armed Forces to prevent the recruitment and use of children in armed conflict.

“Today, we commit to continuing to work with the international community to ensure that all children can live their lives free from violence. Together, we can make sure children remain children, and build a safer, more just future for all.”

Prime Minister Justin Trudeau speaks with Prime Minister of The Bahamas Philip Davis

February 11, 2023
Ottawa, Ontario

Yesterday, Prime Minister Justin Trudeau spoke with the Prime Minister of The Bahamas, Philip Davis.

The prime ministers discussed their commitment to strengthen the partnership between Canada and CARICOM members. They reiterated the need for close collaboration on supporting a Haitian-led solution to the instability in Haiti.

Prime Minister Trudeau thanked Prime Minister Davis for inviting him to participate as a special guest in the 44th Meeting of the Conference of Heads of Government of CARICOM and conveyed that he looked forward to meeting Caribbean leaders in Nassau next week.

The two leaders committed to continuing discussions at the CARICOM meeting next week. 

Associated Links

Prime Minister Justin Trudeau meets with Prince Edward Island Premier Dennis King

 Prime Minister Justin Trudeau meets with Prince Edward Island Premier Dennis King

February 9, 2023
Ottawa, Ontario

Yesterday, Prime Minister Justin Trudeau met with Prince Edward Island Premier Dennis King to discuss shared priorities.

The Prime Minister and Premier reiterated their commitment to work together to improve the health care system for Islanders and all Canadians and spoke about the additional federal funding which will help deliver concrete outcomes. This includes prioritizing investments in mental health, long-term care, and community care, and promoting greater transparency and accountability on results for Canadians.

The two leaders discussed Prince Edward Island’s Climate Adaptation Plan and post-Hurricane Fiona recovery. The Prime Minister commended the Premier on his leadership on climate change. They also highlighted the collaboration on projects that will increase the resilience of P.E.I.’s infrastructure and mitigate against the impacts of future hurricanes and other extreme weather events. 

The Prime Minister and the Premier also spoke about support for P.E.I.’s clean technology sector and bioscience sector as well as making meaningful investments in infrastructure and housing. The leaders discussed affordability issues, notably tolls on the Confederation Bridge and Wood Islands ferry as well as programs to support those most in need.

Prime Minister Trudeau and Premier King agreed to stay in close contact on these important priorities.

Associated Links

• Prime Minister Justin Trudeau meets with Prince Edward Island Premier Dennis King
• Working together to improve health care

Working together to improve health care for Canadians

February 7, 2023
Ottawa, Ontario

As Canadians, we place a lot of value in our universal, public health care system. Unfortunately, it hasn’t been living up to expectations. Across the country, patients seeking emergency care are finding their emergency rooms overwhelmed or even closed. People are waiting for surgeries that are postponed or cancelled. The health care system and the workers who uphold it are under enormous strain, a situation that was exacerbated by the pandemic, and needs immediate action to deliver better health care for Canadians.

Today, the Prime Minister, Justin Trudeau, and his provincial and territorial counterparts met to work together on improving Canada’s health care system. Prime Minister Trudeau and premiers discussed shared health priorities to deliver real results for Canadians as well as the importance to uphold the Canada Health Act to protect Canada’s publicly funded health care system. Canadians must have equitable access to medical care based on their needs, not their ability to pay.

At the working meeting with premiers, the federal government announced it will increase health funding to provinces and territories by $196.1 billion over 10 years, including $46.2 billion in new funding. This funding includes the following elements:

• An immediate, unconditional $2 billion Canada Health Transfer (CHT) top-up to address immediate pressures on the health care system, especially in pediatric hospitals and emergency rooms, and long wait times for surgeries. This builds on previous CHT top-ups that total $6.5 billion provided throughout the pandemic.
• A 5 per cent CHT guarantee for the next five years, which will be provided through annual top-up payments as required. This is projected to provide an additional $17.3 billion over 10 years in new support. The last top-up payment will be rolled into the CHT base at the end of the five years to ensure a permanent funding increase, providing certainty and sustainability to provinces and territories. With this guarantee, the CHT is projected to grow by 33 per cent over the next five years, and 61 per cent over the next 10 years.
• $25 billion over 10 years to advance shared health priorities through tailored bilateral agreements that will support the needs of people in each province and territory in four areas of shared priority:
  • family health services;
  • health workers and backlogs;
  • mental health and substance use; and
  • a modernized health system.

These additional federal investments will be contingent on continued health care investments by provinces and territories. This funding builds on the $7.8 billion over five years that has yet to flow to provinces and territories for mental health and substance use, home and community care, and long-term care.

• $1.7 billion over five years to support hourly wage increases for personal support workers and related professions, as federal, provincial, and territorial governments work together on how best to support recruitment and retention.
• $150 million over five years for the Territorial Health Investment Fund in recognition of medical travel and the cost of delivering health care in the territories.

In addition, the government will work with Indigenous partners to provide additional support for Indigenous health priorities:

• $2 billion over 10 years to address the unique challenges Indigenous Peoples face when it comes to fair and equitable access to quality and culturally safe health care services. The government will work with Indigenous partners to prioritize investments.

These investments, on top of already significant funding, will help build a health care system that includes:

• access to high-quality family health services when they need them, including in rural and remote areas, and for underserved communities;
• a resilient and supported health care workforce that provides high-quality, effective, and safe health care services;
• access to timely, equitable, and quality mental health, substance use, and addictions services to support Canadians’ well-being;
• access to a patient’s own electronic health information that is shared between the health professionals they consult; and
• access to home care and safe long-term care so Canadians can age safely and live in dignity.

While provinces and territories are already taking steps to advance work on these shared priorities, Canadians expect more concrete actions to improve health care services. The funding announced today can help accelerate progress.

Canadians deserve to know what progress is being made. That is why to access their share of the federal funding, including the 5 per cent CHT guarantee, provincial and territorial governments are asked to commit to improving how health information is collected, shared, used, and reported to Canadians to promote greater transparency on results, and to help manage public health emergencies. Canadians should be able to access their own health information and benefit from it being shared between health workers, across health settings, and across jurisdictions. That is why provinces and territories are also asked to agree to adopt common standards and policies related to data.

The Government of Canada recognizes that provinces and territories have their own unique circumstances. As such, bilateral agreements are intended to be flexible, and provinces and territories will have options to tailor these agreements to address the unique needs of their populations and geography. As part of these agreements, provincial and territorial governments are asked to develop action plans that will outline how funds will be spent and how progress will be measured. Investments are to be centered around the following four shared health priorities: family health care; health workforce and backlogs; mental health and substance use; and modernizing the health care system with standardized information and digital tools. Each province and territory will have flexibility in designing their action plans, including the addition of targeted results with indicators that are tailored to their realities.

During the COVID-19 pandemic, we showed that we can work together to tackle big challenges. The Government of Canada will continue to work in collaboration with provinces and territories on next steps, in the best interest of Canadians, their families, and health care workers. We will work to deliver concrete outcomes for Canadians and improve the health care system that Canadians value and depend on.

Quotes

“Today’s announcement is about strengthening our health care system to address existing challenges and provide Canadians with the safe, high-quality care they need and deserve, including when it comes to mental health. Building on the lessons of the pandemic, we will continue to take a Team Canada approach to deliver the best results for patients, support our health care workers, and protect our health care system now and into the future.”

The Rt. Hon. Justin Trudeau, Prime Minister of Canada

“It is clear to Canadians that we need to invest in strengthening Canada’s public health care system and ensure better health care outcomes for Canadians across the country. The investments we are prepared to make today will help Canadians access the high quality, public, and timely health care they deserve.”

The Hon. Chrystia Freeland, Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Finance

“Canadians deserve better health care and we need immediate actions to address current and future challenges. These investments will support those actions so that people have timely access to family health services and that we have less people waiting for treatments, diagnosis, and surgeries, and more mental health and substance use services across the country. We must also work together to collect, share, and use health information to strengthen and improve the delivery of health care while continuing to support our health care workers.”

The Hon. Jean-Yves Duclos, Minister of Health

“Our government continues to work with our partners across the country to build a better health care system. Today’s working meeting builds on our shared objective of ensuring all Canadians, regardless of where they live or their ability to pay, can access the care they need, when they need it. I look forward to working with our provincial and territorial partners in the coming weeks to deliver on Canadians’ priorities.”

The Hon. Dominic LeBlanc, Minister of Intergovernmental Affairs, Infrastructure and Communities

“Mental health is health, and through these bilateral agreements, we are working with provinces and territories to integrate mental health and substance use care as a full and equal part of our universal health care system. These agreements will work to provide greater access to mental health services, reduce substance use harms, and lower stigma. Together, we must ensure that all Canadians have access to supports and services for their mental health and well-being – when they need them, wherever they need them.”

The Hon. Carolyn Bennett, Minister of Mental Health and Addictions and Associate Minister of Health

Quick Facts

• The Canada Health Transfer (CHT) is the largest major federal transfer to provinces and territories. It provides long-term, predictable funding for health care and supports the principles of the Canada Health Act. CHT payments are made on an equal per capita basis to provide comparable treatment for all Canadians, regardless of where they live. The CHT grows in line with a three-year moving average of nominal gross domestic product, with total funding guaranteed to increase by at least 3 per cent per year. In 2023-24, the federal government will provide a total of $49.4 billion to provinces and territories under the CHT, an increase of 9.3 per cent, or $4.2 billion, from 2022-23.
• The funding outlined today is in addition to $11 billion in existing funding ($6 billion remaining) through the 2017 bilateral agreements on Home Care and Mental Health (to 2026-27), and $3 billion for long-term care provided in Budget 2021.
• As part of today’s announcement, the Government of Canada will provide $505 million over five years to the Canadian Institute for Health Information, Canada Health Infoway, and federal data partners to work with provinces and territories on developing new health data indicators, and to support the creation of a Centre of Excellence on health workforce data and underpin efforts to use data to improve health care.
• The CHT, along with historical tax point transfers for health to provinces and territories dating back to the 1970s, accounts for nearly one third of all the money provinces and territories spend on health care. The value of these tax points is $25 billion in 2022-23.
• In addition to the CHT, the Government of Canada has made significant targeted investments to support health systems, including more than $72 billion over the course of the COVID-19 pandemic to protect the health and safety of Canadians. More than eight out of every 10 dollars provided to fight COVID-19 and support Canadians was provided by the federal government.
• The federal government works collaboratively and in partnership with Indigenous partners and communities to support improved access to high quality, culturally appropriate health services, greater Indigenous control of health services, and improved health outcomes. Each year, the government invests approximately $5 billion in Indigenous health. This includes important new investments announced since 2021 to support further progress, including:
  • $354 million over five years to increase the number of nurses and other medical professionals in remote and isolated First Nations communities;
  • $250 million over five years to further support recruitment and retention of health professionals on reserve;
  • $825 million over three years for distinctions-based mental health and wellness strategies;
  • $127 million over three years to foster health systems free from racism and discrimination; and
  • $107 million over three years to continue efforts to transform how health services are designed and delivered by First Nations communities.

Associated Links

• Canada’s health care system
• Canada Health Transfer
• Canada Health Act

Statement by the Prime Minister on International Development Week

 Statement by the Prime Minister on International Development Week

February 5, 2023
Ottawa, Ontario

The Prime Minister, Justin Trudeau, today issued the following statement on International Development Week, which runs from February 5 to 11, 2023:

“Canada has a proud tradition of supporting international development efforts, and today, on the first day of International Development Week, we commit to continuing that work. In the face of global challenges ranging from Russia’s ongoing aggression against Ukraine to global inflation, food and energy insecurity, and the climate crisis, Canada is ready to meet the moment. On this day, we also recognize all those who work hard to advance the United Nations’ Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) and build a more peaceful, inclusive, and prosperous world for everyone.

“A unique Canadian tradition since 1991, International Development Week shines a light on the work of international development workers, volunteers, and partners, and provides an opportunity to highlight Canada’s important contributions on the international stage. Ordinary citizens and experts, driven by compassion and a belief in a better world, are working to advance human rights, create opportunities, and improve the lives of people here at home and abroad. By highlighting this important work, International Development Week invites all of us to join global efforts and be agents of positive change.

“The Government of Canada continues to respond to this call too, by supporting international development efforts and making progress on key priorities, including advancing global health, addressing nutrition needs, and promoting gender equality around the world. In 2020-21, we provided close to $1.2 billion to meet the humanitarian needs of some 115 million people worldwide. Canada’s Feminist International Assistance Policy guides our efforts by addressing the unique challenges faced by women, girls, and 2SLGBTQI+ persons around the world, to reduce the poverty and inequality that disproportionately impacts these groups and others in situations of vulnerability. We also provided support to over 800 women’s rights organizations working to advance the rights of women and girls and promote gender equality through the Women’s Voice and Leadership initiative. Canada also recognizes the importance of supporting developing countries in the fight against climate change. That’s why, in 2021, we doubled our previous commitment to international climate finance to $5.3 billion over the next five years, and at COP15 in Montréal last December, we announced new funding to advance conservation efforts in developing countries, which are home to the vast majority of the world’s biodiversity.

“Canada is also doing its part to implement the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development and its 17 SDGs to put us on an inclusive and resilient path toward ending poverty and hunger, achieving equality, and creating sustainable economic growth while protecting the planet. This is an effort to ensure everyone can fulfil their potential. In 2021, we released a national strategy to guide our efforts to implement the 2030 Agenda with a whole-of-government, whole-of-society approach, recognizing that everyone can play a role in achieving the SDGs. As Co-Chair of the UN Secretary General’s SDG Advocates group, I continue to rally countries, governments, the private sector, and others to come together to raise our voices and accelerate our progress toward building a sustainable, resilient, and equitable future for all.

“Let’s #GoForTheGoals together! I encourage everyone to learn more about the SDGs, to get involved, and to take action. And this week, let’s also thank Canadians who are working tirelessly toward a better tomorrow for everyone.”