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Trudeau Reveals MPs From All Parties Involved in Foreign Interference, Criticizes Poilievre Over Security Clearance

Oct 16, 2024, 05:15 PM

On October 16, 2024, Prime Minister Justin Trudeau testified at the Public Inquiry into Foreign Interference, revealing that he possesses intelligence indicating that several current and former Conservative parliamentarians and candidates are engaged in, or at high risk of, foreign interference activities. Trudeau criticized Conservative Party Leader Pierre Poilievre for refusing to obtain a security clearance that would allow him to be briefed on these matters, calling his decision "bewildering" and suggesting it puts Canada at increased risk. He stated, "I have the names of a number of parliamentarians, former parliamentarians, and/or candidates in the Conservative Party of Canada who are engaged or at high risk of, or for whom there is clear intelligence around foreign interference." Under cross-examination by Conservative counsel, Trudeau acknowledged that intelligence also indicates members of the Liberal Party and other parties may be involved or at risk. Poilievre responded by demanding Trudeau "release the names of all MPs" implicated. NDP Leader Jagmeet Singh urged Poilievre to "put country before party" by obtaining a security clearance and addressing the issue. Trudeau stated that he has instructed the Canadian Security Intelligence Service (CSIS) to inform Poilievre and protect the integrity of all parties. The disclosures have intensified the debate over foreign interference in Canadian politics and the necessity for party leaders to engage with intelligence briefings.