Politics Insider: Canada’s ambassador to U.S. to leave post in new year
Canada’s ambassador to the United States, Kirsten Hillman, has announced her resignation amidst trade tensions between the two countries. Hillman, who has been in the role since 2020, stated that she will be stepping down in the new year to allow for a smooth transition as the Canada-United States-Mexico Agreement on free trade is reviewed.
Prime Minister Mark Carney expressed his gratitude for Hillman’s service, noting her long tenure as one of the longest-serving ambassadors to the United States in Canadian history. The announcement comes as the federal government tables a new bill, Bill C-16, aimed at toughening the Criminal Code to address violence against women and children and reduce court delays.
The bill, known as the Protecting Victims Act, is part of a series of measures introduced by the government to strengthen the Criminal Code. This shift in approach reflects a departure from previous Liberal governance under former Prime Minister Justin Trudeau.
Meanwhile, in other news, the federal government has awarded a contract to improve Arctic communications for troops stationed in the North. Talks between the U.S. and Canada regarding a tariff-rate quota for steel were previously called off, and British Columbia plans to amend Indigenous rights legislation following a court ruling.
Additionally, Indigenous artifacts from the Vatican have been unveiled at a history museum, and the National Arts Centre has a new CEO, Annabelle Cloutier. The day’s events in Ottawa included Prime Minister Mark Carney attending Question Period and a reception for diplomatic heads of mission.
Looking ahead, Finance Minister François-Philippe Champagne will host a meeting of provincial and territorial finance ministers in Ottawa. The day also saw Bloc Québécois Leader Yves-François Blanchet holding a news conference, Green Party Leader Elizabeth May participating in various events, and Interim NDP Leader Don Davies attending Question Period.
As the day unfolds, it is evident that Canadian politics remains dynamic and ever-evolving, with key players making significant decisions that shape the country’s future.
Quotes of the Day
“You said in 50 years the MPs who are here might not be here. Mr. Plamondon is proof that we never know. It’s very possible that some MPs will be here in 50 years and will be able to see the trajectory of the construction of the House as well.” – MP Tom Kmiec
Perspectives
B.C. and Ottawa need to shift gears on EVs
B.C. and Ottawa can help risk-averse consumers make the switch by doing more to make EV ownership attractive. Distorting the market through limiting choice is the wrong strategy. Both Ottawa and the province need to shift gears. – The Globe and Mail Editorial Board
Will Quebec’s childcare model work in New York?
Almost three decades after it was launched, Quebec’s low-cost, universal child-care plan is back in the news. – André Picard, Health Columnist
The inescapable economic logic of a bigger Canadian oil patch
Prime Minister Mark Carney’s aim is to author a sequel to the oil boom that Canada experienced between the start of the century and 2014. He’s never put it so plainly, but it’s clearly the target. – Tony Keller, Columnist
Go Deeper
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