Prime Minister Justin Trudeau emphasized the importance of securing “full buy-in” from opposition parties before the federal government takes any further action to address foreign interference. This includes determining the process and oversight for addressing this issue. Trudeau expressed his disappointment with the conduct of opposition parties during former governor-general David Johnston’s tenure as special rapporteur, calling their actions partisan and toxic. Trudeau expressed concern about potential attacks on future individuals who may undertake this important work. Johnston recently submitted his final confidential report on foreign interference to Trudeau, following his resignation earlier this month due to criticism from Conservative, NDP, and Bloc Québécois parties.
The former governor-general highlighted the increasingly partisan environment surrounding his work and faced questions about his past role with the Pierre Elliott Trudeau Foundation and his family connections to Trudeau. Johnston, who was appointed by the previous Conservative government in March, was tasked with investigating allegations of foreign interference in the last two federal elections, especially those involving China. Although a report in February 2023 confirmed attempts at interference in Canada’s 2021 election, it concluded that the interference did not impact the fairness of the elections.
Opposition party leaders have expressed their support for the election results in both 2021 and 2019 but called for a public inquiry to ensure that foreign interference is being appropriately addressed. Johnston was asked to assess the feasibility of a public inquiry by May, but he concluded that it would not be useful due to the involvement of classified information.
In response to the public release of Johnston’s report, which outlined plans for public hearings to educate Canadians on foreign interference, a non-binding motion by the NDP called for Johnston’s resignation based on perceived bias. Despite this motion, Johnston stated that he would continue his work. Conservative Leader Pierre Poilievre accused Johnston of being too close to Trudeau to fulfill his role, while NDP Leader Jagmeet Singh expressed concerns about the appearance of bias undermining Johnston’s work.
Trudeau emphasized the importance of establishing mechanisms and institutions that inspire confidence in Canadians to combat foreign interference. However, no decision has been made regarding the opposition’s demand for a public inquiry, and negotiations are ongoing. It remains uncertain when a decision will be reached, but there is optimism that an agreement could be reached soon.
Conservative Leader Pierre Poilievre has made it clear that he will not provide input on the appointment of a commissioner or the terms of reference unless the government commits to an inquiry. The Liberal government has emphasized the need for consensus before proceeding with an inquiry.
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