Uncategorized

The 48-hour rule?

An exchange between the NDP leader and the Transport Minister this morning at Question Period.

Hon. Jack Layton (Toronto—Danforth, NDP): Mr. Speaker, a majority of members of the foreign affairs committee want to hear from the widow of Rémy Beauregard, president of Rights and Democracy before his untimely death. The government does not want to hear her speak, showing once again their contempt for the concept of discovering the truth. It would also be beneficial to hear from the first president of Rights and Democracy, Ed Broadbent, once a member, of course, of this Chamber, and also Joe Clark, who was the minister at the time that Rights and Democracy was created. How can the government refuse to hear from these very important individuals, including the Right Hon. Joe Clark?

Hon. John Baird (Minister of Transport, Infrastructure and Communities, CPC): Mr. Speaker, let me say that our sympathies are with Madame Trepanier and her family on their loss. I do hope that all members of the committee can put aside partisan politics and work together as to the number of witnesses who can invited to be heard on this matter. We hope that these disagreements can be resolved so that witnesses like Madame Trepanier may be heard.

Looking for more?

Get the Best of Maclean's sent straight to your inbox. Sign up for news, commentary and analysis.
  • By signing up, you agree to our terms of use and privacy policy. You may unsubscribe at any time.