Investigating foreign interference in federal elections
Foreign interference or attempted attacks on our democracy are unacceptable and something our government takes very seriously. Our political system is one that relies on confidence, as all Canadians deserve a fair electoral process that respects the sanctity of their vote. This most basic promise must especially be kept when facing hostile authoritarian forces.
We had this in mind when we created the Critical Election Incident Public Protocol, which brought together senior public servants and security experts to assess foreign election interference and publicly share any incidents that threaten the integrity of a federal election. The panel reported that while foreign interference attempts absolutely existed, the 2019 and 2021 elections unfolded with integrity.
Recently, questions about our democracy have been raised as Canadians hear and read about the issue of attempted foreign interference, particularly from China. Canadians rightfully deserve answers and reassurance.
To chart the way forward, our government has appointed the Right Honourable David Johnston as an Independent Special Rapporteur. He will have a broad mandate to investigate foreign interference in the last two federal elections and make recommendations on how to further protect our democracy and uphold confidence in it.
A former Governor General, Johnston is an expert on Canada’s democratic institutions and has experience as an impartial referee. Our government will comply with his public recommendations so that our past and future elections are beyond reproach.
I know this issue strikes many nerves, but this moment cannot be met with partisanship or anti-Asian feelings. Instead, let us do the work that needs to be done to ensure our elections remain free and fair for generations to come.
Launching the Housing Accelerator Fund
It is clear that the housing supply – and the types of homes being built – are not keeping up with our growing needs. Yet, in cities across Canada, housing policies are often barriers to the timely building of affordable housing.
This is why the new Housing Accelerator Fund will provide funding to municipal governments to remove barriers and fast-track the creation of 100,000 new homes nationwide. Specifically, the fund will help cities and towns unlock new housing by fixing out-of-date permitting systems, introduce zoning reforms to build more density, and incentivize development close to public transit. By speeding up development and approvals, we will create fundamental and lasting changes at the local level of our housing system.
Supporting our Toronto Zoo
The Toronto Zoo is one of our city’s largest and most used public outdoor spaces, with approximately 1.3 million visitors each year. In March, I was pleased to announce that the government of Canada will invest $769,902 into the Toronto Zoo as part of its efforts to support tourism and community infrastructure right here in Scarborough–Rouge Park. This funding will be used to provide year-round access to greenhouses, improve accessibility for persons with disabilities, and adapt operations to address the health and safety of animals, guests and staff.
You’re Invited: Spring Walk 2023
I would like to invite you and your loved ones to our Annual Spring Walk in the Rouge National Urban Park. This family friendly walk will explore some of the most scenic spots in the Rouge and will be guided by Parks Canada staff.
Date: Sunday, April 30
Time: 10 a.m. to 12 p.m.
Location: Rouge Valley Conservation Centre, 1749 Meadowvale Road, Scarborough.
Please RSVP at TINY.CC/SRP-RSVP or call 416-283-1414