A political storm is brewing in Canada as the country grapples with border security issues and legislative changes. For nearly two years, Conservative Leader Pierre Poilievre has insisted that the nation and its systems are broken. Recently, a wave of unity swept across the political landscape, uniting parties in ways not seen in recent history. The December border plan proposed by Prime Minister Justin Trudeau requires legislative amendments to address customs, immigration, and money laundering laws. However, Parliament was prorogued on January 6, leaving the nation's leaders to navigate these challenges without a functioning legislative body.
Mr. Poilievre has been vocal about sending Canadian Armed Forces troops to the border as part of his strategy to address the country's security concerns. In December, the Conservatives suggested introducing a non-confidence motion at a House committee, aiming to challenge the current government's handling of the situation. Meanwhile, Prime Minister Trudeau presented a comprehensive plan to former U.S. President Donald Trump, focusing on securing the border and combating fentanyl trafficking. In response, Trump agreed to hold off on imposing tariffs until at least March 4.
“Mr. Poilievre has been telling us for about two years that the country is broken, that the system is broken (and) no longer works. And now we’ve just had a movement of unity in the last few days — maybe a few hours — like we haven’t seen in a long time,” said Geneviève Tellier.
The December border plan includes significant amendments to various laws, such as the Customs Act and immigration law. These changes aim to bolster Canada's visa system and empower Canada Border Services Agency (CBSA) officers to inspect goods intended for export. Despite these pressing needs, Parliament remains prorogued until March 24, with the new Liberal leader set to be chosen on March 9. The prorogation was intended to provide the Liberal Party time to select their new leader, creating a temporary vacuum in legislative action.
“We would be far more hobbled in our ability to respond as a country to things that Donald Trump might want to throw at us,” remarked Geneviève Tellier.
Both the Conservative Party and the New Democratic Party (NDP) are pushing for Parliament's return, albeit with different objectives. Jagmeet Singh of the NDP emphasized the need for protective measures for workers potentially affected by Trump's tariff threats. Meanwhile, Mr. Poilievre is adamant that Parliament should reconvene to enact what he describes as a "Canada first plan."
“We need to call back Parliament and we need to have a package of protections in place for workers that might be impacted,” stated Jagmeet Singh.
Public Safety Minister David McGuinty argued that legislative action is not necessary to counter Trump's tariff threats, as the government already possesses sufficient powers to move forward.
“All of the powers that we need, for example, like listing cartels (as terrorist groups), those are things that are within our grasp now; it’s simply a question of moving forward and implementing,” explained David McGuinty.
Frédéric Boily commented on the current state of affairs, noting that the government holds control over the situation and its messaging.
“Right now, they have control of what is happening, they have control of the message and the opposition is trying to make itself heard,” said Frédéric Boily.
As tensions rise, Green Party leader Elizabeth May expressed skepticism about the longevity of a parliamentary session should it be reconvened prematurely.
“You can set with an egg timer how long Parliament would last once we convene,” quipped Elizabeth May.
