Trudeaumania

The Prime Minister, Justin Trudeau, today announced that the Honourable Mona Fortier, Member of Parliament for Ottawa—Vanier, will serve as Chief Government Whip.Mona Fortier previously served as Deputy Government Whip. First elected in 2017, and re-elected twice, she has held various Cabinet positions, including President of the Treasury Board and Minister of Middle Class Prosperity and Associate Minister of Finance. Before entering politics, she worked as Chief Director of Communications and Market Development at Collège La Cité and managed her own strategic communications-consulting firm. Her community involvement has earned her various recognitions, including a Queen Elizabeth II Diamond Jubilee Medal.As Chief Government Whip, Ms. Fortier will work as part of a diverse team to deliver real, positive change for Canadians, including making life more affordable, growing the economy, and creating good middle-class jobs.Quote“Mona Fortier is an experienced leader with a keen understanding of the issues that matter most to Canadians and the values that guide our work in their service. I know she will continue to be a great asset in this new role, as we work together to build a better Canada for everyone.”The Rt. Hon. Justin Trudeau, Prime Minister of CanadaQuick FactEach recognized party in the Parliament of Canada has a whip. Among other duties, the whips ensure that enough Members are in the chamber for debates and votes, determine which committees Members will sit on, and assign offices and seats in the House of Commons. Whips also work with Members to ensure the smooth functioning of Parliament, Members’ offices, and service to constituents.

The Prime Minister, Justin Trudeau, today announced the appointment of Wendy Lisogar-Cocchia as the new Lieutenant Governor of British Columbia.Wendy Lisogar-Cocchia is a respected entrepreneur in Canada’s hospitality industry and a dedicated community leader and philanthropist. A trusted advisor to business associations and community organizations, she is also the co-founder of the Pacific Autism Family Network, which supports neurodivergent people and their families. She has received recognitions that include the Order of Canada, the Order of British Columbia, the Queen Elizabeth II Diamond Jubilee Medal, the King Charles III Coronation Medal, and two honorary doctorates.The Prime Minister thanked the outgoing Lieutenant Governor, the Honourable Janet Austin, for her service to the people of British Columbia and to Canada.Quote“Ms. Lisogar-Cocchia has long been a champion for the people of her community, her province, and our country. I know she will continue to make a difference for British Columbians as Lieutenant Governor, and I wish her all the best in this new role.”The Rt. Hon. Justin Trudeau, Prime Minister of CanadaQuick FactsLieutenant Governors are the personal representatives of His Majesty The King of Canada in their respective provinces. They fulfill the roles and functions of the Crown, including granting Royal Assent to provincial laws.Lieutenant Governors are appointed by the Governor General of Canada on the recommendation of the Prime Minister. They serve terms of at least five years.Biographical NoteWendy Lisogar-CocchiaAssociated LinkThe Lieutenant Governors

The Prime Minister, Justin Trudeau, today welcomed the appointment of the Honourable James O’Reilly as the new Senate Ethics Officer. This appointment, which was recently approved by the Senate, is effective January 10, 2025.A widely respected member of Canada’s legal community, Mr. O’Reilly was appointed a judge of the Federal Court in 2002 and of the Court Martial Appeal Court in 2003. Prior to his appointment to the Bench, he had a varied legal career that included roles at the Law Commission of Canada, the Department of Justice Canada, and the Supreme Court of Canada. He is also a published author and has taught law at various universities across the country.As Senate Ethics Officer, Mr. O’Reilly will be responsible for administering, interpreting, and applying the Ethics and Conflict of Interest Code for Senators, providing advice on the Code to members of the Senate.The Prime Minister congratulated the outgoing Senate Ethics Officer, Pierre Legault, on his upcoming retirement and thanked him for his dedication and service.Quote“I congratulate the Honourable James O’Reilly on his appointment as the next Senate Ethics Officer. His impressive legal career will make him an invaluable advisor to members of the Red Chamber.”The Rt. Hon. Justin Trudeau, Prime Minister of CanadaQuick FactsThe Senate Ethics Officer is an independent Officer of the Senate, appointed under the Parliament of Canada Act for a term of seven years.Mr. O’Reilly was chosen as the nominee for this position on the advice of the Prime Minister, following the government’s open, transparent, and merit-based appointment process. Under the Parliament of Canada Act, his nomination was then approved by the Senate.The Ethics and Conflict of Interest Code for Senators outlines a set of standards and rules on ethics and conflict of interest that a senator must meet in performing their parliamentary duties and functions.Biographical NoteThe Honourable James O’ReillyAssociated LinksThe Senate Ethics OfficerSenate of Canada

The Prime Minister, Justin Trudeau, today announced changes to the Ministry. The new Ministry will deliver on what matters most to Canadians: making life more affordable and growing the economy.Building on the work done since 2015 to invest in Canadians, the team will continue to move forward on housing, child care, and school food while working to put more money back in people’s pockets.The changes to the Ministry are as follows:Anita Anand becomes Minister of Transport and Internal TradeGary Anandasangaree becomes Minister of Crown-Indigenous Relations and Northern Affairs and Minister responsible for the Canadian Northern Economic Development AgencySteven MacKinnon becomes Minister of Employment, Workforce Development and LabourGinette Petitpas Taylor becomes President of the Treasury BoardThe Prime Minister also welcomed the following new members to the Ministry:Rachel Bendayan becomes Minister of Official Languages and Associate Minister of Public SafetyÉlisabeth Brière becomes Minister of National RevenueTerry Duguid becomes Minister of Sport and Minister responsible for Prairies Economic Development CanadaNate Erskine-Smith becomes Minister of Housing, Infrastructure and CommunitiesDarren Fisher becomes Minister of Veterans Affairs and Associate Minister of National DefenceDavid J. McGuinty becomes Minister of Public SafetyRuby Sahota becomes Minister of Democratic Institutions and Minister responsible for the Federal Economic Development Agency for Southern OntarioJoanne Thompson becomes Minister of SeniorsThese new ministers will work with all members of Cabinet to deliver real, positive change for Canadians. They join the following ministers remaining in their portfolio:Terry Beech, Minister of Citizens’ ServicesBill Blair, Minister of National DefenceFrançois-Philippe Champagne, Minister of Innovation, Science and IndustryJean-Yves Duclos, Minister of Public Services and Procurement and Quebec LieutenantKarina Gould, Leader of the Government in the House of CommonsSteven Guilbeault, Minister of Environment and Climate ChangePatty Hajdu, Minister of Indigenous Services and Minister responsible for the Federal Economic Development Agency for Northern OntarioMark Holland, Minister of HealthAhmed Hussen, Minister of International DevelopmentGudie Hutchings, Minister of Rural Economic Development and Minister responsible for the Atlantic Canada Opportunities AgencyMarci Ien, Minister for Women and Gender Equality and YouthMélanie Joly, Minister of Foreign AffairsKamal Khera, Minister of Diversity, Inclusion and Persons with DisabilitiesDominic LeBlanc, Minister of Finance and Intergovernmental AffairsDiane Lebouthillier, Minister of Fisheries, Oceans and the Canadian Coast GuardLawrence MacAulay, Minister of Agriculture and Agri-FoodSoraya Martinez Ferrada, Minister of Tourism and Minister responsible for the Economic Development Agency of Canada for the Regions of QuebecMarc Miller, Minister of Immigration, Refugees and CitizenshipMary Ng, Minister of Export Promotion, International Trade and Economic DevelopmentHarjit S. Sajjan, President of the King’s Privy Council for Canada and Minister of Emergency Preparedness and Minister responsible for the Pacific Economic Development Agency of CanadaYa’ara Saks, Minister of Mental Health and Addictions and Associate Minister of HealthPascale St-Onge, Minister of Canadian HeritageJenna Sudds, Minister of Families, Children and Social DevelopmentRechie Valdez, Minister of Small BusinessArif Virani, Minister of Justice and Attorney General of CanadaJonathan Wilkinson, Minister of Energy and Natural ResourcesQuote“Our team is focused on the things that matter most to you – making life more affordable, growing the economy, and creating good jobs for the middle class. Together, we will keep building a strong future for the middle class, and for all Canadians.”The Rt. Hon. Justin Trudeau, Prime Minister of CanadaQuick FactsSince 2015, the Ministry has made real progress for the middle class and those working hard to join it – from lifting hundreds of thousands of children out of poverty with the Canada Child Benefit to delivering on our promise of $10-a-day child care and the National School Food Program.With the changes announced today, the Ministry retains a total of 38 ministers, in addition to the Prime Minister. In keeping with the precedent set in 2015, there is an equal number of women and men.The Cabinet is the central decision-making forum in government, responsible for its administration and the establishment of its policy. Its members are each responsible for individual portfolios or departments.Associated LinkCabinet

Today, Prime Minister Justin Trudeau spoke with the President of Israel, Isaac Herzog.The Prime Minister and the President discussed the disturbing rise in antisemitism as well as the latest developments in the Middle East.The two leaders strongly condemned the attack against the Jewish community that took place in Montréal, Quebec, earlier this week. The Prime Minister underscored that the Government of Canada will advance its fight against antisemitism and stand against all forms of hate. He stressed that Jewish Canadians deserve to feel safe, supported, and welcomed.Prime Minister Trudeau and President Herzog also discussed recent developments in the Middle East. The leaders exchanged on the ongoing humanitarian crisis in Gaza, and the Prime Minister called for an immediate ceasefire between Israel and Hamas, the release of all hostages, as well as an increase in the flow of humanitarian assistance.The leaders agreed to remain in contact as the situation continues to evolve.Associated LinksCanada-Israel relationsCanada’s response to the crisis in Israel, the West Bank and the Gaza StripStatement by the Prime Minister on the ceasefire agreement between Israel and LebanonJoint statement on the situation in GazaPrime Minister Justin Trudeau speaks with President of Israel Isaac Herzog

The Prime Minister, Justin Trudeau, today announced that the Governor General, Her Excellency the Right Honourable Mary Simon, appointed the following individuals as independent senators to fill vacancies in the Senate:Allister Surette, for Nova ScotiaNancy Karetak-Lindell, for NunavutAllister Surette is a respected leader and executive with over 30 years of experience in education, politics, and governance. From 1993 to 1998, he was a member of the Legislative Assembly of Nova Scotia and held several portfolios within Cabinet during that time. From 2011 to 2024, he was President and Vice-Chancellor of the Université Sainte-Anne, in Church Point, Nova Scotia. He has long been a champion of Canada’s Francophone and Acadian communities.Nancy Karetak-Lindell has been a strong voice for the North in Canada throughout her life, advocating for the region’s unique cultural, economic, and environmental interests. From 1997 to 2008, she was the first Member of Parliament to represent the newly established riding of Nunavut. A strong Inuk leader, she served as President of Inuit Circumpolar Council Canada. She is also an active member of her community and the recipient of various honours, including the Order of Canada.These new senators were recommended by the Independent Advisory Board for Senate Appointments and chosen using a merit-based process open to all Canadians. Introduced in 2016, this process ensures senators are independent and able to tackle the broad range of challenges and opportunities facing the country.Quote“Congratulations to Mr. Surette and Ms. Karetak-Lindell on their appointment as Parliament’s newest independent senators. I am confident they will represent their communities well and I look forward to working with them to make a real difference in the lives of Canadians.”The Rt. Hon. Justin Trudeau, Prime Minister of CanadaQuick FactsThe Senate is the Upper House in Canada’s parliamentary democracy.Candidate submissions were reviewed by the Independent Advisory Board for Senate Appointments, which provided recommendations to the Prime Minister. The Board is guided in its work by public, transparent, non-partisan, and merit-based criteria to identify highly qualified candidates for the Senate.With today’s announcement, there have been 90 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 NotesAllister SuretteNancy Karetak-LindellAssociated LinksSenate of CanadaIndependent Advisory Board for Senate AppointmentsSenate appointments Process – Questions and Answers

The Prime Minister, Justin Trudeau, today announced the appointment of the Honourable Martine St-Louis, a judge of the Federal Court and a judge of the Court Martial Appeal Court of Canada, as the new Associate Chief Justice of the Federal Court.Associate Chief Justice St-Louis replaces the Honourable Jocelyne Gagné, who elected to become a puisne judge effective August 31, 2024.Quote“I wish the Honourable Martine St-Louis every success as she takes on her new role as Associate Chief Justice of the Federal Court. She is a respected member of the legal community and has extensive experience in many areas of the law. I am confident she will continue to be a great asset to the Federal Court in her new role.”The Rt. Hon. Justin Trudeau, Prime Minister of CanadaQuick FactsChief Justices and Associate Chief Justices in Canada are responsible for the leadership and administration of their courts. They also serve as members of the Canadian Judicial Council, which works to improve the quality of judicial services in the superior courts of Canada.Chief Justices and Associate Chief Justices are appointed by the Governor General on the advice of Cabinet and the recommendation of the Prime Minister.Biographical NoteThe Honourable Martine St-Louis

The Prime Minister, Justin Trudeau, today issued the following statement on the birthday of His Highness the Aga Khan:“Today, I join Shia Ismaili Muslims in Canada and around the world in celebrating the 88th birthday of His Highness the Aga Khan.“The Aga Khan has devoted his life to compassion and prosperity for all. For almost 60 years, through the Aga Khan Development Network, His Highness has made important progress in helping those most vulnerable, including through initiatives in education, health care, and economic development. His advocacy and commitment to improving the quality of life of those who are marginalized has made a meaningful difference for many.“The Aga Khan has a deep, profound relationship with Canada and our communities. Through institutions such as the Global Centre for Pluralism, here in Ottawa, and the Aga Khan Museum, in Toronto, he has promoted inclusion and diversity across our country. In recognition of his invaluable contributions, the Aga Khan was appointed as an honorary Companion of the Order of Canada in 2005 and granted honorary Canadian citizenship in 2009.“On behalf of the Government of Canada, I extend my best wishes to His Highness on this special occasion and look forward to continue advancing our shared commitment to making the world a better place for all.“Salgirah Khushiali Mubarak!”

Today, Prime Minister Justin Trudeau spoke with the Emir of Qatar, His Highness Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad Al Thani, about the ongoing situation in the Middle East.The Prime Minister and the Emir discussed recent events in Syria and the end of the Assad regime. Prime Minister Trudeau reaffirmed his commitment to the Syrian people and underscored the need for sustained peace, restraint by parties in Syria, and the protection of human rights.The leaders exchanged on the ceasefire agreement between Israel and Lebanon as a much-needed step toward stability and security in the region. They also discussed the ongoing humanitarian crisis in Gaza, and the Prime Minister called for an immediate ceasefire between Israel and Hamas, the release of all hostages, as well as an increase in the flow of humanitarian assistance.Prime Minister Trudeau expressed his appreciation for Qatar’s efforts to advance mediation efforts in the region, including to secure a ceasefire agreement in Gaza. He also underscored Canada’s lasting support for a two-state solution and emphasized the right of Israelis and Palestinians to live in peace, security, and dignity, without fear.The Prime Minister and the Emir agreed to continue to work together and grow the bilateral relationship.Associated LinksCanada-Qatar relationsStatement on the situation in SyriaCanada’s response to the crisis in Israel, the West Bank and the Gaza StripPrime Minister Justin Trudeau meets with Emir of Qatar His Highness Sheikh Tamim bin Hamad Al Thani

We, the leaders of the Group of Seven (G7), reaffirm our commitment to the people of Syria, and lend our full support for an inclusive Syrian-led and Syrian-owned political transition process in the spirit of the principles of UN Security Council Resolution 2254. We call on all parties to preserve Syria’s territorial integrity and national unity, and respect its independence and sovereignty. We reiterate our support for the UN Disengagement Observer Force monitoring the Golan Heights between Israel and Syria.We stand ready to support a transition process under this framework that leads to credible, inclusive, and non-sectarian governance that ensures respect for the rule of law, universal human rights, including women’s rights, the protection of all Syrians, including religious and ethnic minorities, transparency and accountability. The G7 will work with and fully support a future Syrian government that abides by those standards and results from that process.Furthermore, we emphasize the importance of holding the Assad regime accountable for its crimes and will continue to work with the OPCW and other partners to secure, declare and destroy Syria’s remaining chemical weapons stockpiles.After decades of atrocities committed by the Assad regime, we stand with the people of Syria. We denounce terrorism and violent extremisms in all its forms. We are hopeful that anyone seeking a role in governing Syria will demonstrate a commitment to the rights of all Syrians, prevent the collapse of state institutions, work on the recovery and rehabilitation of the country, and ensure the conditions for safe and dignified voluntary return to Syria of all those who were forced to flee the country.