Erin O’Toole, the former leader of the Conservative party, has criticized Prime Minister Justin Trudeau and the Liberal government for not doing enough to protect democracy in the face of increasing reports of alleged foreign interference. O’Toole made these comments during an interview with Mercedes Stephenson on The West Block. He was responding to questions about the Canadian Security Intelligence Service (CSIS) informing him that he and his party had been targeted by China in an active voter suppression campaign during the 2021 election.
O’Toole believes that Trudeau’s lack of action against foreign interference is the reason he has refused to launch a national inquiry into the matter. He emphasizes that these issues go beyond mere political spin and raise serious concerns about the safeguarding of democracy. O’Toole recently addressed the House of Commons, outlining four categories of threat that CSIS had briefed him on. These threats include foreign funding and alleged payments from China’s United Front Work Department to spread misinformation about O’Toole.
However, O’Toole is quick to clarify that he does not believe China cost him the election, as he congratulated Trudeau on his victory. Nonetheless, he points out that it was a close election and expresses disappointment with the outcome. He stresses the importance of focusing on safeguarding future elections rather than dwelling on past ones.
When asked about concerns for his family’s safety due to being personally targeted, O’Toole states that he is not worried and praises CSIS and Canada’s intelligence services for their work in protecting Canadians. However, he criticizes the handling of communication regarding foreign interference issues, specifically mentioning a case involving Conservative MP Michael Chong. O’Toole places the blame on politicians, rather than the intelligence services, for failing to address these issues promptly.
O’Toole recently announced his departure from politics after serving 11 years at the federal level. In his farewell speech to the House of Commons, he urged MPs to prioritize debate over division and cautioned against “performance politics.” He explains that he chose to step down to bring his political experience to the private sector, but he will still be available to provide advice to new Conservative Party Leader Pierre Poilievre if needed.
Having entered politics in 2012, O’Toole reflects on his time in public service, acknowledging both the positive aspects and the challenges that come with it. He describes serving the public as an honorable profession and expresses mixed emotions about leaving politics, stating that he loves Parliament but is also excited about returning to the private sector.
This content was originally published on Global News, a division of Corus Entertainment Inc., and has been rewritten to enhance its clarity, creativity, and unique character.
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