The West Block

What’s the summer strategy for Trudeau and Poilievre as make-or-break byelection looms?

Mon, 24 Jun 2024 03:59:00 -0000

Are the RCMP currently investigating the allegations of some MPs ‘wittingly’ colluding with foreign states? ‘The West Block’ host Mercedes Stephenson sits down RCMP Commissioner Mike Duheme to discuss foreign interference and whether the names of MPs flagged in the NSICOP report should be publicized. Duheme also addresses the national security threats facing Canada and the growing threats facing politicians.

Plus, Stephenson is joined by Bob Fife, the Globe and Mail’s Ottawa bureau chief, and Stephanie Levitz, the Toronto Star’s deputy Ottawa bureau chief, to look back on the key issues that dominated the spring sitting and look ahead to the parties’ summer strategy.

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Canada to continue diplomacy with alleged foreign interference actors: Joly

Mon, 17 Jun 2024 03:59:00 -0000

As Canada’s top soldier, Gen. Wayne Eyre, is set to step down from his post as chief of the defence staff this summer, ‘The West Block’ host Mercedes Stephenson speaks with Gen. Eyre about the Canadian Armed Forces being a target of foreign interference. Gen. Eyre also discusses the state of Canada’s military, the major challenges during his tenure as CDS, and more.

Plus, Stephenson sits down with Foreign Affairs Minister Mélanie Joly to discuss the impact of foreign interference allegations levelled against China and India on her government’s Indo-Pacific strategy. Minister Joly also addresses calls for Canada to meet its NATO defence spending targets.

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So far, 'deflection,' no answers on allegations of politician collusion: experts

Mon, 10 Jun 2024 03:59:00 -0000

What is the fallout from the bombshell NSICOP report that alleges some parliamentarians “wittingly” co-operated with foreign states? ‘The West Block’ host Mercedes Stephenson speaks with Garry Clement, former RCMP superintendent, and Thomas Juneau, former analyst at the Department of National Defence, about the ability and limitations of the RCMP to investigate these alleged incidents of collusion, the calls to release the names of those alleged parliamentarians, and more.

Plus, Stephenson sits down with Oleksandra Matviichuk, Nobel Peace Prize laureate and head of the Centre for Civil Liberties in Ukraine, about her efforts in documenting Russian war crimes, abducted Ukrainian children, and more.

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Judges need to ensure stricter bail principles are being upheld: Justice Minister

Mon, 03 Jun 2024 03:59:00 -0000

Crime has been on the rise, according to Statistics Canada’s Violent Crime Severity Index. RCMP officials have told Global News that 53 per cent of the homicides committed in their jurisdiction have been perpetrated by someone on community release, parole or probation. ‘The West Block’ host Mercedes Stephenson interviews Justice Minister Arif Virani about his government’s bail reforms for violent repeat offenders. Minister Virani also addresses the recent attacks at two Jewish schools and a synagogue.

Plus, Stephenson speaks with David Frum, political commentator and staff writer at The Atlantic, about the significance of Donald Trump’s criminal conviction and its potential impact on his bid to be re-elected U.S. president.

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U.S. ambassador says Canada now 'the outlier' in NATO on defence spending

Mon, 27 May 2024 03:59:00 -0000

Ahead of the summer NATO Summit in Washington, D.C., a bipartisan group of U.S. senators have written a letter to Prime Minister Justin Trudeau urging him to meet the NATO two per cent of GDP defence spending target. ‘The West Block’ host Mercedes Stephenson sits down with David Cohen, U.S. Ambassador to Canada, to discuss if the White House shares the senators’ disappointment that Canada won’t reach its NATO commitment this decade. Ambassador Cohen also addresses Canada’s response to the International Criminal Court’s chief prosecutor seeking arrest warrants for Israeli and Hamas leaders, including Israeli President Benjamin Netanyahu.

Plus, Stephenson speaks with Winnipeg Police Chief Danny Smyth (President of Canadian Association of Chiefs of Police) and RCMP Deputy Commissioner Jodie Boudreau about the impacts of the federal government’s new bail reforms on the front lines for police.

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What does it take to be one of the prime minister’s bodyguards?

Mon, 20 May 2024 03:59:00 -0000

The shooting of Slovakia’s prime minister highlights the growing threat of violence towards politicians. So what does it take to be an officer of a VIP detail for a high-profile politician? ‘The West Block’ host Mercedes Stephenson gets exclusive access to the RCMP program to train protective policing officers to keep politicians of all political stripes safe from the rising threat of political violence.

Plus, Stephenson interviews former correctional investigator of Canada Howard Sapers about the secrecy surrounding the prison transfer of notorious convicted murderer Luka Magnotta to a medium-security institution. Sapers also addresses reports of increased prison violence and concerns over Canada’s parole system.

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Lessons for Canada from U.K.’s plan to boost defence spending to 2.5% of GDP

Mon, 13 May 2024 03:59:00 -0000

With the rise of pro-Palestinian encampments across North American university campuses, concerns have been raised over police response and safety of Jewish students. ‘The West Block’ host Mercedes Stephenson interviews Diversity, Inclusion and Persons with Disabilities Minister Kamal Khera to discuss the campus protests. Minister Khera also addresses concerns from disability advocates about the Canada Disability Benefit’s ability to lift Canadians out of poverty.

Plus, Stephenson speaks with former British intelligence officer Philip Ingram about the U.K.’s calls for NATO members to boost their defence spending, geopolitical threats, and more.

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Foreign interference inquiry releases report as RCMP arrest foreign suspects in Nijjar case

Mon, 06 May 2024 03:59:00 -0000

The issue of foreign interference returns to the spotlight as the public inquiry into election meddling releases its first report and the RCMP make an arrest of suspected foreign hitmen. ‘The West Block’ host Mercedes Stephenson sits down with Public Safety Minister Dominic LeBlanc to discuss the new arrests in the 2023 killing of B.C. Sikh leader Hardeep Singh Nijjar. LeBlanc also addresses the findings of the foreign interference inquiry, which found that instances of foreign meddling did occur but did not alter the outcomes of Canada’s 2019 and 2021 federal elections. Commissioner Marie-Josée Hogue also concluded that foreign interference did undermine public confidence in the electoral process.

Plus, Stephenson speaks with former CSIS executive manager Dan Stanton and Global News’ national security journalist Stewart Bell about the arrest of three suspected hitmen and their alleged ties to the Indian government.

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Why aren’t more foreign grocers in Canada? Lack of space a hurdle: Minister Champagne

Mon, 29 Apr 2024 03:59:00 -0000

Following the federal government’s announcement of a $15-billion Honda electric vehicle plant in Ontario, ‘The West Block’ host Mercedes Stephenson asks Industry Minister François-Philippe Champagne for a follow-up to his government’s efforts to increase grocery store competition. Minister Champagne discusses his talks with foreign grocery chains, as well as Canada’s electric vehicle infrastructure.

Plus, Stephenson sits down with Belarusian opposition leader Sviatlana Tsikhanouskaya to talk about her life in exile, her jailed husband, and Russian President Vladimir Putin’s ties to the current Belarusian regime.

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Growing Iran-Israel tensions, Budget 2024’s capital gains tax changes

Mon, 22 Apr 2024 14:26:09 -0000

What are the risks of a greater escalation between Iran and Israel after more retaliatory strikes are exchanged between the two countries? ‘The West Block’ host Mercedes Stephenson interviews the Atlantic Council’s Jonathan Panikoff, the former deputy national intelligence officer for the Near East at the National Intelligence Council, about the possibility of a greater conflict between Iran and Israel, fears over the potential use of nuclear weapons, and more.

Plus, Stephenson speaks with John Manley, former Liberal finance minister, and Lisa Raitt, former Conservative deputy leader, about the new federal budget. The panel also discusses proposed capital gains tax changes, the housing crisis, and how the budget might impact the Liberals’ polling numbers.

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Former Israeli PM Bennett on Iranian threats, PM Trudeau at foreign interference inquiry

Mon, 15 Apr 2024 03:59:00 -0000

Heightened tension in the Middle East after Iran launches missile and drone attacks against Israel. Tehran says the attack is in retaliation for Israel’s suspected strike on an Iranian consulate in Syria. ‘The West Block’ host Mercedes Stephenson sits down with former Israeli prime minister Naftali Bennett to discuss the threat of a wider conflict with Iran, the crisis in Gaza, and more.

Plus, Stephenson speaks with Steven Chase, The Globe and Mail’s senior parliamentary reporter, and Vina Nadjibulla, an international security specialist at the Asia Pacific Foundation of Canada, about Prime Minister Justin Trudeau’s testimony at the foreign interference inquiry.

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New foreign Interference revelations, Roméo Dallaire on Rwanda genocide anniversary

Mon, 08 Apr 2024 03:59:00 -0000

Big revelations have emerged from the latest rounds of foreign interference inquiry hearings. At the inquiry, Canadian Security Intelligence Service (CSIS) director David Vigneault said the agency had intelligence before Canada's 2019 election that China's government attempted to funnel about $250,000 through a network, possibly to interfere in Canadian elections. ‘The West Block’ host Mercedes Stephenson is joined by Steven Chase, The Globe and Mail’s senior parliamentary reporter, and Dick Fadden, former CSIS director, to discuss the latest round of testimony from intelligence officials and MPs, as well as the potential political fallout.

Plus, Stephenson speaks with retired Lt.-Gen. Roméo Dallaire, former UN Assistance Mission for Rwanda Force Commander, about the 30th anniversary of the Rwanda genocide.

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Feds and premiers spar over carbon price hike, navigating global threats

Mon, 01 Apr 2024 03:59:00 -0000

Ahead of the federal carbon price rise in April, ‘The West Block’ host Mercedes Stephenson speaks with Environment Minister Steven Guilbeault about the push by some provincial premiers and Conservative MPs to scrap the levy, the role of large emitters in reducing emissions and more.

Plus, Stephenson is joined by retired U.S. general David Petraeus, a former CIA director, to discuss concerns over terror attacks from the Islamic State (ISIS), the Israel-Hamas conflict and the situation in Ukraine. Petraeus also addresses Canada’s capabilities to respond to global threats.

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Court reforms for military sexual misconduct cases and carbon tax fact-check

Mon, 25 Mar 2024 14:50:32 -0000

The federal government introduced new legislation to reform the Canadian military justice system, which will transfer military sexual misconduct cases to the civilian justice system. ‘The West Block’ host Mercedes Stephenson sits down with Defence Minister Bill Blair to discuss the court reforms. Blair also addresses his comments saying the Canadian Armed Forces is facing a “death spiral” when it comes to recruitment.

Plus, Stephenson speaks with Canadian Climate Institute President Rick Smith about his new report tracking emission reductions, the political debate over the carbon tax, and more.

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Canada’s role in supporting Haiti as gang violence engulfs Port-au-Prince

Mon, 18 Mar 2024 03:59:00 -0000

The crisis in Haiti continues to grow more and more precarious following the rise in gang violence and the resignation of Haitian Prime Minister Ariel Henry. ‘The West Block’ host Mercedes Stephenson speaks with Canadian Ambassador to Haiti André François Giroux about the situation on the ground, preparations for a possible evacuation, and the role Canada can play in resolving the crisis.

Plus, Stephenson is joined by Bob Rae, Canadian Ambassador to the United Nations, who discusses the international response, the flow of illegal U.S. weapons to Haitian gangs, and more.

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Calls to bolster Canada’s military operation in Latvia and boost CAF recruitment

Mon, 11 Mar 2024 03:59:00 -0000

Canada has committed to upgrading its NATO mission in Latvia, Operation REASSURANCE, to a brigade-level force by 2026. ‘The West Block’ host Mercedes Stephenson sits down with Andris Sprūds, Latvia’s defence minister, to discuss Latvia’s preparations for Russian threats, Canada’s defence spending, and the future of the NATO alliance under a possible re-elected Donald Trump.

Plus, Stephenson speaks with retired general Tom Lawson, former chief of defence staff, about Defence Minister Bill Blair’s comments on the state of Canada’s military recruitment.

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Brian Mulroney’s legacy, Justice Minister defends Online Harms Bill

Mon, 04 Mar 2024 04:59:00 -0000

Former prime minister Brian Mulroney died at the age of 84 on Thursday, Feb. 29. Mulroney, Canada’s 18th prime minister, governed from 1984-1993 and oversaw the signing of NAFTA and international treaties on acid rain. ‘The West Block’ host Mercedes Stephenson speaks with Frank McKenna, the former N.B. premier and former Canadian ambassador to the U.S., about Mulroney’s legacy.

Plus, Stephenson is joined by Justice Minister Arif Virani who addresses criticisms that the online harms bill is government overreach and impedes on free speech.

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2-year anniversary of Russia’s invasion of Ukraine, threats of insider leaks

Mon, 26 Feb 2024 15:32:41 -0000

What more can Canada do to assist Ukraine as the world marks the two-year anniversary of Russia’s invasion? ‘The West Block’ host Mercedes Stephenson sits down with retired general Rick Hillier, the former chief of defence staff and member of the Ukrainian World Congress's Strategic Advisory Council, about Canada’s role in supporting Ukraine and the plight of Ukrainian refugees. Hillier also discusses what’s needed to improve the state of the Canadian Armed Forces.

Plus, Stephenson interviews Dan Stanton, the former executive manager at the Canadian Security Intelligence Service (CSIS), about the dangers of insider threats at highly critical institutions like nuclear power plants and the Royal Canadian Mounted Police (RCMP).

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How should Canada respond to Trump’s NATO threats?

Mon, 19 Feb 2024 04:59:00 -0000

Fallout continues over former U.S. president Donald Trump’s comments suggesting Russian President Vladimir Putin could do whatever he wanted to NATO allies who didn’t meet the alliance’s 2-per cent defence spending targets. ‘The West Block’ host Mercedes Stephenson speaks with John Bolton, the former U.S. national security adviser to Donald Trump, about the seriousness of the Republican frontrunner’s NATO comments. Bolton also discusses the threat of Iranian foreign interference in North America and the death of Russian opposition leader Alexei Navalny.

Plus, Stephenson interviews Defence Minister Bill Blair about how Canada might respond to Navalny’s death and pressures to boost its defence spending.

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Auto theft summit and Canadian diplomacy in a high-stakes U.S. election year

Mon, 12 Feb 2024 04:59:00 -0000

The federal government convened a national summit to combat the growing problem of auto thefts in Canada. ‘The West Block’ guest host Eric Sorensen interviews Public Safety Minister Dominic LeBlanc about the jurisdictional roadblocks in tackling organized car thefts, possible new penalties for repeat car thieves, and more.

Plus, Sorensen is joined by Canada’s Ambassador to the U.S. Kirsten Hillman to discuss the ‘Team Canada’ strategy, preparations for a possible Donald Trump re-election, and concerns over PM Trudeau’s anti-MAGA rhetoric.

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Alberta Premier Danielle Smith defends new transgender policies, federal minister reacts

Mon, 05 Feb 2024 04:59:00 -0000

Alberta Premier Danielle Smith announced a suite of new policy proposals aimed at gender identity and transgender youth, triggering political shockwaves across Canada. Some of the proposed changes impact gender-affirming medical treatments for minors and pronoun changes at school. ‘The West Block’ guest host David Akin speaks with Premier Smith about what prompted her to announce these LGBTQ2S+ policy proposals, her government’s plan for sex education in schools, the potential use of the notwithstanding clause, and more.

Plus, Akin interviews Employment Minister Randy Boissonnault, the only Alberta MP in PM Trudeau’s cabinet, for the federal reaction.

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Parliament to resume sitting as foreign interference inquiry kicks off

Mon, 29 Jan 2024 04:59:00 -0000

The national foreign interference inquiry will hold its first public hearings this week. ‘The West Block’ host Mercedes Stephenson speaks with Dick Fadden, a former CSIS director, and Vina Nadjibulla, an international security specialist at the Asia Pacific Foundation of Canada, about the threat of foreign interference, protecting national security, implications for Canada’s foreign relations, and more.

Plus, Stephenson sits down with The Globe and Mail’s Ottawa Bureau Chief Bob Fife and The Toronto Star’s Deputy Ottawa Bureau Chief Stephanie Levitz to discuss where the leaders stand ahead of the new 2024 parliamentary session.

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Health Minister on strained health-care systems and Ontario’s private-care plans

Mon, 22 Jan 2024 04:59:00 -0000

Following the Canadian Medical Association’s calls for urgent political action to fix the crisis in Canada’s emergency rooms, ‘The West Block’ guest host Eric Sorensen speaks with Health Minister Mark Holland about how his government is addressing the issue. Minister Holland also discusses Ontario’s plan for more private health-care clinics and safeguarding Canada’s medication supply.

Plus, Sorensen sits down with Jonathan Madison, a Republican strategist, and Sarada Peri, former senior speechwriter to former U.S. president Barack Obama, to discuss the political stakes of the 2024 U.S. presidential race, Prime Minister Justin Trudeau’s concerns over a possible Donald Trump re-election, and more.

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Potential fallout from U.S. & U.K. airstrikes on Houthi sites in Yemen, Canada’s ER crisis

Mon, 15 Jan 2024 04:59:00 -0000

Concerns in the Middle East are rising following U.S. and U.K. targeted airstrikes on Houthi-linked sites in Yemen. These airstrikes come as U.S. Secretary of State Antony Blinken wraps up his latest tour of the region. ‘The West Block’ guest host Eric Sorensen speaks with Frank Lowenstein, a former U.S. special envoy for Israeli-Palestinian negotiations, on the implications of the U.S.-led strikes on Houthi sites, the White House’s diplomacy in the region, and the next stages of the Israel-Hamas conflict.

Plus, Sorensen sits down with a panel of doctors, Dr. Kathleen Ross (Canadian Medical Association) and Dr. Trevor Jain (Canadian Association of Emergency Physicians), to discuss the issue of lengthy ER wait times, how politicians should address the crisis, and more.

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Manitoba premier calls for a carbon tax respite, the future of Canada’s military

Sun, 07 Jan 2024 04:59:00 -0000

When he was elected, Manitoba Premier Wab Kinew said he was going to deliver “immediate help” to Manitobans when it comes to affordability and health care. ‘The West Block’ host Mercedes Stephenson speaks to Manitoba Premier Wab Kinew about the state of progress on his promises, his priorities for the new year, the carbon tax, and more.

Plus, Stephenson sits down with a panel of retired top military brass, Gen. (Ret’d) Tom Lawson, Vice-Admiral (Ret’d) Mark Norman and Lt.-Gen. (Ret’d) Guy Thibault, to discuss the future of the Canadian Armed Forces.

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Cost-of-living crisis, foreign interference: Reviewing the top stories of 2023

Mon, 01 Jan 2024 04:59:00 -0000

As tensions grow on the open seas– confrontations with China, Russia’s growing interest in the Arctic– ‘The West Block’ host Mercedes Stephenson speaks to Vice-Admiral Angus Topshee, the commander of the Royal Canadian Navy, about the challenges facing the naval force, including personnel shortage. Vice-Admiral Topshee also addresses concerns about ship procurement and possible federal defence spending cuts.

Plus, Stephenson is joined by Global News’ David Akin, Abigail Bimman and Mackenzie Gray to analyze the top stories of 2023, and discuss what’s on their radar in 2024.

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One-on-one with PM Trudeau: Israel-Hamas conflict, foreign interference, housing

Mon, 25 Dec 2023 04:59:00 -0000

In a year-end one-on-one interview, ‘The West Block’ host Mercedes Stephenson sits down with Prime Minister Justin Trudeau to discuss some of year’s top political issues, including Canadian protests concerning the Israel-Hamas conflict, foreign interference in Canada, the housing crisis. PM Trudeau also addresses an exclusive poll that says the majority of Canadians say he should resign as prime minister.

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Canada & U.S. on opposite sides of ceasefire call, new poll casts doubt on Trudeau

Mon, 18 Dec 2023 04:59:00 -0000

Ottawa and Washington are no longer on the same page publicly on the Israel-Hamas war following Canada’s vote in favour of a United Nations resolution demanding an ‘immediate humanitarian ceasefire.’ ‘The West Block’ host Mercedes Stephenson sits down with U.S. Ambassador David Cohen about the U.N. vote, calls for Canada to label the Iranian Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) a terrorist group, and possible Canadian define spending cuts.

Plus, following the House of Commons rising for the holidays, Stephenson is joined by The Globe and Mail’s Ottawa Bureau Chief Bob Fife and Toronto Star’s parliamentary reporter Stephanie Levitz to respond new Ipsos polling numbers that show the majority of Canadians think Prime Minister Justin Trudeau should resign as Liberal Party leader in 2024.

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As carbon price fight flares, Minister Wilkinson defends Liberal approach

Mon, 11 Dec 2023 04:59:00 -0000

The federal government has unveiled their draft framework for an emissions cap on the oil and gas sector. The oil and gas industry, as well as the province of Alberta, has criticized the federal plan as being a ‘backdoor’ production cap, while environmental groups blasted the plan for not going far enough. ‘The West Block’ host Mercedes Stephenson speaks to Energy and Natural Resources Minister Jonathan Wilkinson about the emissions cap framework, as well as the marathon voting session in the House over the Conservative Party’s carbon tax filibuster.

Plus, Stephenson is joined by Kate Armstrong, the first female cadet at the Royal Military College of Canada (RMC), and Lt.-Col. (Ret’d) Mark Popov, the former head of officer cadet training at RMC, to discuss military misconduct, as well as the federal plan to establish a review panel to analyze the culture, education and training at Canada's two military colleges.

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Defence minister says plan for 'significant' military investments in talks

Mon, 04 Dec 2023 04:59:00 -0000

The federal government is facing heat for its sole-sourced contract with Boeing to replace Canada’s aging Aurora aircraft patrol fleet. This comes as the Royal Canadian Navy’s top commander released a video saying their was a naval recruitment shortfall. ‘The West Block’ host Mercedes Stephenson speaks to Defence Minister Bill Blair about military procurement, ammunition shortages, defence spending, and more.

Plus, Stephenson is joined by Generation Squeeze’s Paul Kershaw and CanAge’s Laura Tamblyn Watts to discuss Canada’s looming retirement crisis, how younger and older Canadians are struggling, and more.

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‘We need to watch our purse strings’: says Anand following Fall Economic Statement

Mon, 27 Nov 2023 04:59:00 -0000

The federal government made a push for housing in its fall economic statement, while attempting to show some fiscal restraint. ‘The West Block’ guest host Eric Sorensen speaks with Treasury Board President Anita Anand about the government’s housing measures, the federal debt, spending cuts, and defence funding.

Plus, Sorensen is joined by The Globe and Mail’s Ottawa Bureau Chief Bob Fife and Toronto Star’s parliamentary reporter Stephanie Levitz to break down the political reaction to the economic update, fallout over a vote on the updated Canada-Ukraine trade deal, and more.

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Canada is ‘a haven for Islamic Republic agents’ warns Iranian human rights activist

Mon, 20 Nov 2023 04:59:00 -0000

Iran’s alleged links to proxy groups like Hezbollah and Hamas have come under increased scrutiny after the October 7th attacks on Israel—raising questions about the Iranian regime’s reach into Canada. ‘The West Block’ host Mercedes Stephenson speaks with human rights activist Masih Alinejad about her warnings to Prime Minister Justin Trudeau and the Canadian public, the threats made against her, and more.

Plus, Stephenson speaks with Taiwan’s Deputy Foreign Affairs Minister Roy Chun Lee about Taipei’s view of the Biden-Xi meeting, military activity in the Taiwan Strait, election interference, and more.

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Veteran pushes for Canada to recognize toxic legacy of burn pits on soldiers

Mon, 13 Nov 2023 04:59:00 -0000

Protests and demonstrations have erupted across Canada since the start of Israel-Hamas conflict in October, many of which have been peaceful. But officials have become concerned about a rise in antisemitism and Islamophobia in light of recent escalations, including attacks on a Montreal synagogue and two Jewish schools, as well as a violent clash on Concordia University’s campus. ‘The West Block’ host Mercedes Stephenson speaks with Government House Leader Karina Gould on what help the feds are providing to ensure communities feels safer, potential consequences for violent hate attacks, her concerns as a Jewish woman, and more.

Plus, Stephenson speaks with retired Master Cpl. Arjun Grewal about the dangers of toxic burn pit exposure for soldiers, the adverse health effects stemming from the burn pits, how the issue is playing out in Canada, and more.

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Liberal Cabinet Minister defends carbon tax carve-out for home heating oil

Mon, 06 Nov 2023 04:59:00 -0000

After the federal Liberals paused carbon pricing on home heating oil, Prime Minister Justin Trudeau says there will be no further carbon tax carve-outs despite blowback that the policy change only benefitted Atlantic Canada. The Opposition is now calling for that freeze to be extended to other forms of home heating. ‘The West Block’ host Mercedes Stephenson speaks with Employment Minister Randy Boissonnault about the carbon tax change, his message to Albertans who deem the Atlantic Canada carve-out unfair, and more.

Plus, Stephenson speaks with Chen Zeigen, the son of presumed Canadian hostage Vivian Silver, and Irwin Cotler, former Liberal justice minister and former special envoy on combatting anti-Semitism, on efforts to secure the release of hostages held in Gaza.

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Israel’s offensive enters second stage and former Israeli PM on the future of Gaza

Mon, 30 Oct 2023 03:59:00 -0000

Israel has escalated its offensive in Gaza– expanding its ground operation, unleashing more airstrikes, and knocking out communications in the regions. ‘The West Block’ host Mercedes Stephenson speaks with retired Maj.-Gen. Denis Thompson, the former force commander of the peacekeeping Multinational Force and Observers, about the operational considerations for the Israeli ground offensive and the presence of the Canadian Special Operations Forces in Israel.

Plus, Stephenson speaks with former Israeli PM Ehud Barak on the future of a two-state solution, concerns of a regional war, and more.

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Challenges in containing the Israel-Hamas conflict and negotiating the release of hostages

Mon, 23 Oct 2023 03:59:00 -0000

U.S. President Joe Biden visits the Middle East to show support to Israel and de-escalate tensions in the region. ‘The West Block’ host Mercedes Stephenson speaks with Frank Lowenstein, a former U.S. special envoy for Israeli-Palestinian negotiations, on what the White House is doing to contain the conflict in Gaza from spreading, the situation in the West Bank, and what happens next.

Plus, Stephenson speaks with former FBI negotiator Phil Andrew about the behind-the-scenes race to free hostages from Hamas.

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Israel prepares ground attack as Gaza deals with humanitarian crisis

Mon, 16 Oct 2023 03:59:00 -0000

A week after Hamas’ deadly attacks, Israel prepares its ground offensive. ‘The West Block’ host Mercedes Stephenson speaks with Brig. Gen. (Res.) Amir Avivi, a former Israel Defense Forces’ deputy commander, on the IDF’s offensive in Gaza, rescuing hostages and the role of Iran in the conflict.

Plus, Stephenson speaks with human rights lawyer Zaha Hassan, a former legal advisor to the Palestinian negotiation team during their U.N. membership bid, on the situation in Gaza.

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Israel at war after Hamas launches worst attack 'in a generation'

Mon, 09 Oct 2023 17:00:00 -0000

A surprise attack by Hamas militants in southern Israel has left hundreds dead. Israel immediately launched air strikes into Gaza and has vowed to wipe out the militant group. With fears the conflict could spread 'The West Block' host Mercedes Stephenson speaks to Chuck Freilich, a former deputy national security advisor for Israel and a professor at Columbia University and Tel Aviv University. Plus, this Thanksgiving many Canadians are feeling the pinch when it comes to the high cost of food. Stephenson speaks to Industry Minister François-Philippe Champagne about the federal plan to bring some relief to your grocery bill.

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Canadian domestic politics under international scrutiny and Jewish groups urge feds to make Nazi documents public

Tue, 03 Oct 2023 04:00:00 -0000

Canada has been making global headlines with back-to-back international incidents. Parliament cheered for a man who fought for the Nazis while Volodymyr Zelenskyy visited Ottawa and India-Canada relations are strained in light of Prime Minister Justin Trudeau alleging New Delhi is linked to the murder of Sikh leader Hardeep Singh Nijjar. ‘The West Block’ host Mercedes Stephenson speaks with David Frum, staff writer at The Atlantic, and Justin Ling, freelance investigative journalist, about Canada's response. Plus, Stephenson speaks with Michael Mostyn, CEO of B’nai Brith, and Michael Levitt, former Liberal MP and president and CEO of the Friends of Simon Wiesenthal Center, about their calls for the federal government to release decades-long sealed Nazi documents to the public.

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Will tensions with India derail Ottawa's Indo-Pacific Strategy?

Sun, 24 Sep 2023 04:00:00 -0000

Prime Minister Justin Trudeau ignited a diplomatic firestorm with India when he announced that Canada had credible allegations of a potential link between agents of the government of India and the killing of Canadian citizen and Sikh leader Hardeep Singh Nijjar. India has called Trudeau’s allegations “absurd” and accused Canada of being "a safe haven for terrorists". ‘The West Block’ host Mercedes Stephenson speaks to Arif Lalani, former Canadian diplomat and a Distinguished Fellow with the Munk School of Global Affairs and Public Policy and Vina Nadjibulla, Adjunct Professor at the School of Public Policy and Global Affairs at the University of British Columbia. Plus, Stephenson speaks with Defence Minister Bill Blair about how the diplomatic rift is affecting the government’s Indo-Pacific strategy and Canada's ongoing commitment to Ukraine.

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Which party has the best plan to address the housing crisis: Two big city mayors weigh-in

Sun, 17 Sep 2023 04:00:00 -0000

In a candid conversation on the season premiere of ‘The West Block’ London’s mayor Josh Morgan tells host Mercedes Stephenson that all levels of government need to get around the same table and cooperate because “blaming one level of government or another does not get more units in the ground quicker.” Stephenson also speaks with Calgary Mayor Jyoti Gondek who says the housing crisis is only getting worse as more people move to her city: “It's really sort of the perfect storm. We started to see people in positions of vulnerability when it came to housing, especially glaringly during COVID. And since then we've been taking in a lot more people, over 60 individuals a day. If you break down the math and we just can't keep pace.” Stephenson also speaks to the "Inside Politics Panel", The Globe and Mail's Ottawa Bureau Chief Robert Fife and The Toronto Star's Stephanie Levitz, about what's at stake for Prime Minister Justin Trudeau and Conservative Leader Pierre Poilievre as the House returns for a new session.

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Russian-aligned hackers stepping up cyber attacks to disrupt Canada's oil and gas industry

Mon, 26 Jun 2023 04:00:00 -0000

A Canadian intelligence agency is sounding the alarm that Russia may be stepping up its cyberattacks against Canada for supporting Ukraine amid Russia’s invasion. A new threat assessment says Russia-aligned hackers’ next goal could be compromising Canada’s oil and gas sector. ‘The West Block’ host Mercedes Stephenson sat down for an exclusive interview with Sami Khoury, head of the CSE's Canadian Centre for Cyber Security, to discuss how cyber attacks affect Canadians. Plus, Stephenson speaks with Lisa Raitt, former Conservative cabinet minister and vice-chair of global investment banking at CIBC, and Naheed Nenshi, former Calgary mayor, about the highs and lows of the parliamentary session and what political leaders will be prioritizing during the summer break.

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Liberals must do more to ‘safeguard’ elections from foreign interference: O’Toole

Mon, 19 Jun 2023 04:00:00 -0000

After nearly 11 years in federal politics, former Conservative leader Erin O’Toole gave his final speech to Parliament. 'The West Block’ host Mercedes Stephenson sat down with O’Toole to discuss political polarization, defence spending and the government’s handling of foreign interference. Plus, with the summer recess fast approaching, the Liberals are on the defensive after a number of political missteps. Stephenson sat down with The Globe and Mail Ottawa bureau chief Bob Fife and Stephanie Levitz from The Toronto Star to discuss whether the Liberals can regain Canadians’ trust or if the controversies are starting to stick to the government.

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David Johnston's resignation means all options back on the table on foreign interference: Intergovernmental Affairs Minister

Mon, 12 Jun 2023 20:59:05 -0000

Special rapporteur David Johnston resigned late last week from his role investigating foreign interference, citing a “partisan atmosphere” around his appointment. "The West Block" host Mercedes Stephenson speaks to Intergovernmental Affairs Minister Dominic LeBlanc about the government's next moves and whether Prime Minister Justin Trudeau will call a public inquiry. Plus, Canada is facing its worst wildfire season on record. So far this year, there have been almost 2,400 fires, and more than 400 are still active. Hundreds of Canadian Armed Forces soldiers have been deployed to help, at a time when the military is already feeling the strain from limited resources and personnel shortages. Stephenson speaks to Defence Minister Anita Anand about the role of the CAF during disasters like this wildfire season and some of the other major challenges facing the military.

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Tensions heightened after Chinese warship comes dangerously close to U.S. destroyer in Taiwan Strait

Tue, 06 Jun 2023 14:33:28 -0000

A Chinese warship came within 150 yards of colliding with American destroyer USS Chung-Hoon during a joint Canada-U.S. mission sailing through the Taiwan Strait. The close call was captured on video exclusively by Global News onboard HMCS Montreal. ‘The West Block’ host Mercedes Stephenson speaks to retired Vice Admiral Mark Norman, former commander of the Royal Canadian Navy about the incident and the implications. Plus, opposition leaders are calling for special rapporteur David Johnston to resign after he ruled out holding a public inquiry into foreign interference. Mercedes Stephenson sits down with NDP Leader Jagmeet Singh and NDP MP Jenny Kwan, who learned she was targeted by China, to discuss the NDP’s next move and the consequences of government inaction.

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“Albertans don’t want to leave Canada, they want to lead Canada”: NDP Leader Rachel Notley

Mon, 29 May 2023 04:00:00 -0000

Rachel Notley ended decades of Conservative rule when she was elected Alberta premier in 2015. She lost the last election to Jason Kenney and the United Conservative Party. Now she’s locked in a tight battle with UCP Leader Danielle Smith. ‘The West Block’ host Mercedes Stephenson sits down with Notley in Calgary to talk about her campaign platform, including how she would work with the federal government if elected. Plus, UCP Leader Danielle Smith is no stranger to controversy, including during this election campaign, but Smith says she’s changed and learned from her past mistakes. ‘The West Block’ host Mercedes Stephenson sits down with two Calgary conservatives, Conservative MP Ron Liepert and a former UCP communications director and now Crestview senior strategist, Evan Menzies, to talk about Smith’s leadership and whether she can unite moderate conservatives ahead of Monday’s election.

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Bail laws change amid rise in violent crime and will there be a foreign interference inquiry?

Mon, 22 May 2023 04:00:00 -0000

Police chiefs across the country are sounding the alarm over a recent rise in violent crime. Ten police officers in Canada have been killed since September, and violent attacks on public transit have many Canadians concerned about safety in their communities. After pressure from the provinces and police, the federal government introduced changes to bail aimed at cracking down on repeat violent offenders. ‘The West Block’ host Mercedes Stephenson speaks to Justice Minister David Lametti about the bail reform changes. Plus, ahead of special rapporteur David Johnston’s long-awaited announcement over whether Canada will have a public inquiry into foreign interference, Stephenson speaks with The Globe and Mail Ottawa bureau chief Bob Fife and Stephanie Levitz from The Toronto Star, about what the foreign interference controversy means for the parties moving forward – whether or not an inquiry is called.

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MP Chong case is federal ‘collective failure’: former national security advisor

Mon, 15 May 2023 04:00:00 -0000

Amid pressing global security concerns, experts are sounding the alarm over how prepared Canada is to deal with modern-day threats. They say the federal government’s reactive response to recent foreign interference allegations points to the urgent need to update Canada’s national security strategy. ‘The West Block’ host Mercedes Stephenson sits down with Vincent Rigby, former national security advisor, and Ward Elcock, former CSIS director, to discuss whether it’s time to rethink our approach to national security. Plus, Stephenson speaks with former Calgary mayor Naheed Nenshi, pollster Janet Brown from Janet Brown Opinion Research and former Conservative cabinet minister Monte Solberg about how the Alberta wildfires will impact the campaign trail for UCP Leader Danielle Smith and NDP Leader Rachel Notley.

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MP Michael Chong wants Chinese diplomat expelled and prosecuting Putin for war crimes in Ukraine

Mon, 08 May 2023 04:00:00 -0000

Another explosive revelation regarding China’s alleged interference in Canada erupted last week. Conservative MP Michael Chong was informed he and his family were allegedly targeted by a Chinese diplomat in Toronto, and he says the federal government failed to act. ‘The West Block’ guest host Eric Sorensen sits down with Michael Chong to discuss how this situation has affected him personally, and where the government should go from here. Plus, Sorensen speaks with Karim Khan, chief prosecutor of the International Criminal Court, about how he plans to prosecute Russian President Vladimir Putin for war crimes in Ukraine.

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New bail reform legislation coming before parliament wraps and will there be a rematch in the 2024 U.S. presidential election

Mon, 01 May 2023 04:00:00 -0000

A rise in violent crime, including attacks on public transit, has many Canadians concerned about safety in their communities. Pair that with debates over gun control, bail reform and worries about human trafficking, and there is a lot to talk about with Public Safety Minister Marco Mendicino. Following a recent pledge to do more to combat cross-border crime alongside the U.S. attorney general and secretary of homeland security, Mercedes Stephenson sits down with Mendicino to talk about what the federal government is doing now to help keep Canadians safer. Plus, Stephenson speaks with David Frum, political commentator and staff writer at The Atlantic, about what to keep an eye on as the 2024 U.S. presidential campaign gets underway.

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Minister urges Canadians not to apply for passports during PSAC strike and former top generals raise concerns about defence spending

Mon, 24 Apr 2023 04:00:00 -0000

With more than 100,000 federal workers are on strike across the country, Canadians are facing major disruptions to accessing services on everything from tax returns to passports. ‘The West Block’ guest host Eric Sorensen speaks with Families, Children and Social Development Minister Karina Gould about the impact of the strike. Plus, new information from the Pentagon highly-classified intelligence leak is raising concerns about Canada’s military spending. The Washington Post reports that Prime Minister Justin Trudeau told NATO officials privately that Canada will “never meet” NATO’s defence spending target of two per cent of GDP. The latest report comes just days after an open letter from former top defence and national security officials urged the government to take this issue more seriously. Sorensen speaks with Retired Lt.-Gen. Andrew Leslie, former Canadian army commander, and Retired Gen. Raymond Henault, former chief of the defence staff, about what’s at stake for Canada if we don’t address military shortfalls.

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PM's top aide testifies and what Pentagon documents leaks reveal about war in Ukraine

Mon, 17 Apr 2023 04:00:00 -0000

Katie Telford, the prime minister’s chief of staff, faced a barrage of questions last week from opposition MPs on what she knew about Chinese interference in the last two federal elections. But what questions remain unanswered? ‘The West Block’ host Mercedes Stephenson speaks with Dick Fadden, former CSIS director and national security advisor to the prime minister, and James Moore, former Conservative cabinet minister. Plus, Stephenson speaks with Kurt Volker, former U.S. ambassador to NATO, on the massive leak of U.S. intelligence documents and what it could mean for the war in Ukraine.

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What Trump’s charges mean for U.S. politics and Canada’s role in the future of space travel

Mon, 10 Apr 2023 00:01:00 -0000

Former U.S. president Donald Trump is facing 34 felony charges related to hush-money payments allegedly made during his 2016 election and allegations of falsifying business records. Regardless of how the case plays out, America is in uncharted political territory. ‘The West Block’ host Mercedes Stephenson speaks with Rick Wilson, co-founder of The Lincoln Project, and Sean Spicer, former White House press secretary, about what this means for the future of U.S. politics, and the Republican Party, ahead of the 2024 election. Plus, Stephenson talks with Jeremy Hansen, the Canadian astronaut serving on NASA’s lunar mission Artemis II, about the future of deep space exploration.

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RCMP failures and Rogers-Shaw merger risks

Mon, 03 Apr 2023 21:16:30 -0000

The Royal Canadian Mounted Police's reputation and morale have seemingly taken hit after hit in recent years. The recent blistering report issued over the Mounties’ performance in the worst mass shooting in Canadian history, where a gunman executed 22 innocent people in Nova Scotia, hasn't helped. The report found the RCMP failed in almost every way. ‘The West Block’ host Mercedes Stephenson spoke with Mike Duheme, the interim RCMP commissioner, about what the force is doing to live up to its claim that it will do better. Plus, Stephenson talks with Armine Yalnizyan, economist and Atkinson fellow on the future of workers, and Craig Alexander, former chief economist at Deloitte and TD Bank, about whether the Rogers-Shaw corporate merger will really mean lower bills for Canadians.

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U.S. Ambassador David Cohen says Canada and U.S. are ready to “take on China” and how widespread is China's influence campaign in Canada

Mon, 27 Mar 2023 04:00:00 -0000

U.S. President Joe Biden wrapped up his visit to Ottawa with a strong pitch for creating even closer ties between Canada and the United States. ‘The West Block’ host Mercedes Stephenson speaks to David Cohen, U.S. Ambassador to Canada, to find out what that future looks like in real terms. As allegations of Chinese election interference continue to dominate headlines, many in the Chinese Canadian community say this has been a problem they have warned about for years. ‘The West Block’ host Mercedes Stephenson speaks with Cheuk Kwan, co-chair of the Toronto Association for Democracy in China, and Joanna Chiu, reporter for The Toronto Star and author of ‘China Unbound’ about just how pervasive China’s meddling is in Canada.

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What's the state of the Canada-US union as President Biden heads to Ottawa and what's the fallout from global banking turmoil

Mon, 20 Mar 2023 04:00:00 -0000

'The West Block' host Mercedes Stephenson speaks to Canadian Ambassador to the United States, Kirsten Hillman, about the key priorities for the White House as US President Joe Biden begins his first official visit to Ottawa this week. As concern of a global banking crisis grows, Stephenson speaks to Kevin Page, President and CEO of the Institute of Fiscal Studies and Democracy and Lisa Raitt, Vice-Chair, Global Investment Banking, CIBC about the financial turmoil and the economic climate ahead of the upcoming federal budget.

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No foreign agent registry timeline as Australian MP warns of 'unprecedented' interference

Mon, 13 Mar 2023 14:54:00 -0000

Opposition parties are urging the federal government to call a public inquiry into foreign interference in light of a series of reports about China meddling in Canada’s democracy. But Prime Minister Justin Trudeau says he won’t commit to an inquiry until a special rapporteur evaluates the situation. With new interference allegations arising seemingly every week, ‘The West Block’ guest host Eric Sorensen sat down with Public Safety Minister Marco Mendicino to discuss what the government’s path forward may look like. Plus, Sorensen speaks with Andrew Wallace, an Australian MP who is the Deputy Chair of the Parliamentary Joint Committee on Intelligence and Security, about what Canada could learn from down under to fight foreign interference.

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Feds shouldn’t wait for inquiry to combat foreign interference: former top public servants

Mon, 06 Mar 2023 16:22:00 -0000

Canadians are calling for immediate action as concerns around alleged meddling in Canadian elections grow. The NDP and Conservatives say a public inquiry is needed to restore faith in our democracy, but former top public servants say there are other methods worth considering. ‘The West Block’ host Mercedes Stephenson sat down with former privy council clerk Michael Wernick and former Communications Security Establishment assistant deputy minister Artur Wilczynski to discuss what the government can do now to combat foreign interference. Plus, Stephenson speaks with The Globe and Mail's Ottawa bureau chief Robert Fife and Stephanie Levitz from the Toronto Star to analyze how foreign interference may shake out for each of the parties when Parliament resumes.

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Canada needs a public inquiry into Chinese election interference: former top spy

Mon, 27 Feb 2023 15:18:18 -0000

Bombshell allegations from intelligence sources that a sitting Liberal MP is a witting affiliate of the Chinese government’s attempts to interfere in Canada’s democracy are renewing concerns over foreign meddling in Canada’s 2019 and 2021 elections. ‘The West Block’ host Mercedes Stephenson sat down with former CSIS director Dick Fadden, former Conservative MP Kenny Chiu and Global News investigative reporter Sam Cooper to discuss whether a public inquiry is necessary to investigate foreign election interference. Plus, Stephenson speaks with Defence Minister Anita Anand about the four Leopard 2 tanks being sent to support Ukraine at a time when the Canadian Armed Forces are being stretched to the limit at home.

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Top-secret Chinese interference leaks and the need to modernize Canadian military

Tue, 21 Feb 2023 15:40:30 -0000

The federal government is facing renewed questions over its transparency. Between new leaked documents detailing China's alleged attempts to interfere in Canadian elections and Public Emergency Order Commissioner Justice Paul Rouleau’s report stating the government needs to do a better job of communicating between its branches, there’s a lot to answer for. ‘The West Block’ host Mercedes Stephenson sat down with Public Safety Minister Marco Mendicino to ask some tough questions about what action the government is willing to take. Plus, Stephenson speaks with Former Defence Minister Peter MacKay about the urgent need to modernize the Canadian military as threats from China and Russia grow.

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US fighter jets shoot down more objects over North America and reaction to Ottawa's health care deal with the provinces

Mon, 13 Feb 2023 05:00:00 -0000

Former Deputy Commander of NORAD, retired Gen. Thomas Lawson speaks to 'The West Block' host Mercedes Stephenson about the objects shot down over North America in recent days. Plus, The Toronto Star's Stephanie Levitz and the Globe and Mail's Robert Fife discuss reaction to the federal government's health care announcement, bail reform and Ottawa's response to the devastating earthquake in Turkey and Syria.

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Chinese spy balloon sparks diplomatic crisis and Justice Minister Lametti on bail reform, gun law controversy and medical assistance in dying

Mon, 06 Feb 2023 05:00:00 -0000

'The West Block' host Mercedes Stephenson speaks to the United States Ambassador to Canada David Cohen about the diplomatic crisis between Washington and Beijing after a Chinese spy balloon was spotted flying over the United States. Stephenson also speaks to Justice Minister David Lametti about urgent calls to reform the bail system. Lametti also weighs in on Ottawa's decision to drop a controversial gun law amendment and delay medical assistance in dying for mental illness.

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Canada’s military in dire state; Poilievre and Trudeau’s showdown

Mon, 30 Jan 2023 16:28:50 -0000

Canada is the latest country to announce tanks for Ukraine. But as Canada’s international commitments ramp up, a dire lack of personnel and equipment are prompting concern over whether Canada’s defense has the resources to uphold NATO commitments. ‘The West Block’ host Mercedes Stephenson sat down with Gen. Wayne Eyre, chief of the defence staff, to discuss the state of the Canadian military. Plus, ahead of Parliament’s return, Stephenson spoke with The Globe and Mail’s Ottawa bureau chief Robert Fife and Stephanie Levitz from the Toronto Star, to analyze the tactics Liberals and Conservatives are leaning on to deal with the hot-button political issues of a potential new health-care deal and the rising cost of living.

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‘Just Transition’ controversy and feds leaving Afghan MPs in danger

Mon, 23 Jan 2023 16:37:28 -0000

The term ‘Just Transition’ has sparked heated debate over the Liberal government’s plan for workers. The government says the transition is necessary to prepare workers for sustainable jobs and meet Canada’s goal of net-zero emissions by 2050. But Alberta Premier Danielle Smith says it will destroy Albertans’ livelihoods. ‘The West Block’ host Mercedes Stephenson spoke with Alex Pourbaix, president of Canadian energy giant Cenovus, and Kendall Dilling, president of Pathways Alliance, a consortium representing 95 per cent of Canada’s oil and gas companies, about ‘Just Transition’ and the future of the oil and gas industry in Canada. Plus, Stephenson sat down with Shogofa Danish, Afghan political journalist working with Global News, Heather McPherson, NDP critic for foreign affairs, and Tim Laidler, director of Afghan Support Project at the Veterans Transition Network, to talk about what the federal government could do to bring women MPs in Afghanistan under watch by the Taliban to safety.

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Nova Scotia emergency room deaths spark calls for federal healthcare funding

Mon, 16 Jan 2023 05:05:00 -0000

Health care access for all is something Canadians expect, but hospitals can’t keep up. Nova Scotian Allison Holthoff died while waiting more than six hours to be seen by a doctor in emergency care. Now, her husband, Gunter, says something needs to change. ‘The West Block’ guest host David Akin sat down with Dr. Michael Howlett, president of the Canadian Association of Emergency Physicians, and Dr. Alika Lafontaine, president of the Canadian Medical Association, to talk about what’s needed to save Canada's health care system. Plus, Akin asks Nova Scotia Premier Tim Houston about what he’s doing right now to ensure Nova Scotians can trust emergency room care going forward.

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Advancing Indigenous rights and surging anti-LGBTQ political rhetoric

Mon, 09 Jan 2023 17:02:51 -0000

Missing and murdered Indigenous women and girls, the harm of residential schools, and other Indigenous-focused stories made headlines across the country this year, but sustained action on these issues fell short. ‘The West Block’ host Mercedes Stephenson spoke with Métis National Council President Cassidy Caron to reflect on the progress made towards reconciliation in 2022, and the work that must be done to move forward on Indigenous priorities in 2023. Plus, Stephenson sits down with Fae Johnstone, Wisdom2Action executive director, and Kyne Santos, the math whiz from ‘RuPaul’s Drag Race Canada,’ to discuss the alarming rise in anti-trans and anti-gay hate fuelled by misinformation and polarized political rhetoric.

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Convoy, Conservatives and China: Analyzing the top stories of 2022

Sun, 25 Dec 2022 23:59:00 -0000

From the ‘Freedom Convoy’ reshaping the Conservative party to allegations of Chinese political interference, 2022 had plenty of major news events. ‘The West Block’ host Mercedes Stephenson sat down with Global News’ David Akin, Amanda Connolly and Mackenzie Gray to analyze the top news of the year, and discuss what stories will be making headlines in 2023. Plus, we revisit our conversation with Ukrainian Deputy Prime Minister Olga Stefanishyna at the Halifax International Security Forum. Stephenson speaks with Stefanishyna about what it will take to stop the Russian invasion of Ukraine – one of the biggest international stories of the year.

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Backlash to proposed changes to gun control law and reforming the Canadian Armed Forces

Mon, 19 Dec 2022 05:00:00 -0000

'The West Block' host Mercedes Stephenson speaks to Public Safety Minister Marco Mendicino about an amendment to federal gun control legislation that has faced widespread condemnation from hunters, Indigenous groups and some provinces. Stephenson also speaks to Defence Minister Anita Anand about her plan to implement the 48 recommendations in the report by former Supreme Court Justice Louise Arbour into military sexual misconduct.

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National security of critical minerals and Singh talks health-care ‘disaster’

Mon, 12 Dec 2022 04:59:00 -0000

The Liberal government recently unveiled its nearly $4 billion strategy to position Canada as a global supplier of critical minerals. ‘The West Block’ host Mercedes Stephenson speaks with Minister of Natural Resources Jonathan Wilkinson about the national security implications of these minerals, and what the government’s plan does to protect Canada. Plus, Stephenson speaks with NDP Leader Jagmeet Singh about the health-care crisis plaguing emergency room departments across the country, a key priority in the NDP-Liberal supply and confidence agreement.

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Alberta's Premier defends Sovereignty Act and former Ukrainian President Petro Poroshenko on Putin's end game

Mon, 05 Dec 2022 05:00:00 -0000

Alberta Premier Danielle Smith speaks to 'The West Block' host Mercedes Stephenson about her government's controversial Sovereignty Act. Smith says the proposed legislation is a warning to Ottawa 'to stay in their lane'. Stephenson also speaks to former Ukrainian President Petro Poroshenko about Russia's war in Ukraine. He says Russian President Vladimir Putin only understands force and Ukraine needs membership in NATO and the European Union to protect its independence.

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New Indo-Pacific Strategy and Trudeau’s testimony on Emergencies Act

Mon, 28 Nov 2022 16:09:00 -0000

Foreign Affairs Minister Melanie Joly has released the long-awaited Indo-Pacific Strategy outlining the government’s priorities for a region it sees as key to Canada’s economic growth. ‘The West Block’ host Mercedes Stephenson speaks with Minister Joly about the government’s economic priorities and its relationship with China. Plus, Stephenson speaks with freelance investigative journalist Justin Ling and The Globe and Mail Ottawa bureau chief Robert Fife about the revealing testimony from the public inquiry into the government’s use of the Emergencies Act, and the lasting impact of the commission.

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Ukraine facing dark winter as Russia threatens NATO

Sun, 20 Nov 2022 00:00:00 -0000

A cold winter looms over Ukraine as the country attempts to repair key energy infrastructure destroyed by Russian missiles. At the Halifax International Security Forum, ‘The West Block’ host Mercedes Stephenson speaks with Ukrainian Deputy Prime Minister Olga Stefanishyna about seeking light in literal and metaphorical darkness. Plus, Stephenson sits down with Adm. Rob Bauer, chair of the NATO Military Committee, about Russia’s threat to NATO and what’s at stake if Ukraine loses the war.

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China interference concerns and Veterans Affairs Minister in hot seat

Sat, 12 Nov 2022 05:00:00 -0000

Amid new allegations of Chinese political interference in Canada reported by Global News, ‘The West Block’ host Mercedes Stephenson speaks with national security expert Akshay Singh, former Canadian ambassador to China David Mulroney, and Global News investigative reporter Sam Cooper about the need for Ottawa to take action against this national security threat. Plus, Stephenson speaks with Minister of Veterans Affairs Lawrence MacAulay about the calls for his resignation and his failed promises to meet national standards.

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One on One with Finance Minister Chrystia Freeland and the ‘Trump Effect’ in U.S. Midterm Elections

Mon, 07 Nov 2022 05:00:00 -0000

Deputy Prime Minister and Finance Minister Chrystia Freeland speaks to ‘The West Block’ host Mercedes Stephenson about the financial challenges facing Canadians after the release of the Fall Economic Statement. Stephenson speaks to political commentator and ‘The Atlantic’ staff writer David Frum about what’s at stake in the U.S. midterm elections.

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Doctors Weigh-In On Canada’s ER Crisis And Advocates Say Ottawa Failing Canadian Vets

Mon, 31 Oct 2022 04:00:00 -0000

‘The West Block’ host Mercedes Stephenson speaks to emergency room physicians about what they call a “perfect storm” of pressures that have resulted in overcrowded emergency rooms and long wait times at hospitals across the country. Stephenson also speaks to Veterans’ advocates and former Veterans Affairs Minister Erin O’Toole about the challenges facing Canadian veterans and why they support calls for the minister to resign.

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Global Economic Turmoil and Recruitment Crisis Facing the Canadian Forces

Mon, 24 Oct 2022 04:00:00 -0000

What’s the forecast for the global economy and how is Canada poised to weather the economic challenges ahead. ‘The West Block’ host Mercedes Stephenson speaks with Ian Bremmer, president of Eurasia Group. Plus, Stephenson speaks with retired Gen. Rick Hillier, former chief of the defence staff, about the recruitment crisis facing the Canadian military and Russia’s war in Ukraine.

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What’s at stake in The Emergencies Act Inquiry and Putin's Nuclear Weapons Threat

Mon, 17 Oct 2022 04:00:00 -0000

The public inquiry into the federal government’s use of the Emergencies Act during last winter's convoy blockades held its first public hearings. 'The West Block' host Mercedes Stephenson speaks with Robert Fife, Ottawa bureau chief for The Globe and Mail, and freelance investigative journalist Justin Ling on what to expect. Plus, Stephenson speaks with Kurt Volker, former U.S. ambassador to NATO, on the West’s response to Russia’s latest escalation in Ukraine.

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Danielle Brown's Political Comeback and Alberta's Outgoing Premier Warns about Populist Extremism

Mon, 10 Oct 2022 04:00:00 -0000

Outgoing Alberta Premier Jason Kenney spent 25 years in political life. He speaks to ‘The West Block’ host Mercedes Stephenson about the highs and lows of the job and why he’s concerned about the future of conservatism. Plus, new UCP Leader Danielle Smith speaks to Stephenson about her political comeback and why she’s ready to take on Ottawa as Alberta premier.

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Putin Critic Bill Browder and What's At Stake in Alberta's UCP Leadership Race

Mon, 03 Oct 2022 04:00:00 -0000

‘The West Block” host Mercedes Stephenson speaks to bestselling author and political activist Bill Browder about Russian President Vladimir Putin’s recent setbacks in Ukraine and the implications for Russians and the West. And, Alberta’s governing UCP prepares to elect a new leader to replace outgoing Premier Jason Kenney. Janet Brown, Principal, Janet Brown Opinion Research, discusses front runner Danielle Smith’s campaign strategy and proposed Alberta Sovereignty Act.

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Putin's Gamble in Ukraine and A Class Action Lawsuit Exposes Anti-Black Racism in the Federal Public Service

Mon, 26 Sep 2022 04:00:00 -0000

'The West Block' host Mercedes Stephenson speaks to Canadian Ambassador to Ukraine, Larisa Galadza, about Russian President Vladimir Putin's latest efforts to claim territory in Ukraine by holding sham referendums and announcing the mobilization of Russian reservists. One of the lead plaintiffs in a multi-billion dollar class action lawsuit against the federal government describes allegations of anti-Black racism and systemic discrimination in the federal public service that date back decades.

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Pierre Poilievre's Conservative Party and Canada's Governor General Reflects on the Queen's Legacy

Mon, 19 Sep 2022 04:00:00 -0000

The season premiere of The West Block looks at Pierre Poilievre's landslide victory in the Conservative Leadership Race and how he intends to shake-up federal politics as Official Opposition Leader. Mercedes Stephenson speaks to Harper-era cabinet ministers James Moore and Poilievre campaign co-chair John Baird. Governor General Mary Simons reflects on the Queen's legacy and the future of the monarchy in Canada.

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One on One with Chief of the Defence Staff Gen. Wayne Eyre, Retired Senator Marjory LeBreton Raises Concerns about Future of the Conservative Party

Sun, 26 Jun 2022 18:00:00 -0000

The Chief of the Defence Staff, Gen. Wayne Eyre discusses the challenges facing Canada's military in a wide-ranging interview. Conservative Party veteran and retired Senator Marjory LeBreton expresses concern about the direction the party is taking during the Conservative leadership race.

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Transport Minister Omar Alghabra, Economist Don Drummond and Conservative Leadership Candidate Jean Charest

Sun, 19 Jun 2022 18:00:00 -0000

Transport Minister Omar Alghabra discusses airport bottlenecks and changes to travel rules as vaccine mandates are lifted for air and train passengers travelling within Canada or leaving the country. Economist Don Drummond looks at Ottawa's affordability plan. Conservative Leadership Candidate Jean Charest discusses his path to winning the leadership and why he's the best candidate to unite the party and the country.

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One on One with U.S. Ambassador David Cohen and Conservative Leadership Candidate Patrick Brown

Sun, 12 Jun 2022 18:00:00 -0000

‘The West Block’ host Mercedes Stephenson sits down with U.S. Ambassador to Canada, David Cohen, for a wide-ranging conversation. Cohen discusses the risk to democracy from populist movements, Canadian defence spending and Alberta's oil industry. Brampton mayor Patrick Brown speaks about his Conservative leadership campaign and whether he will run again for mayor before the leadership race wraps up.

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Defence Minister Anita Anand Vows to Change Military Culture and Former Governor General David Johnston Reflects on the Queen’s Platinum Jubilee

Tue, 07 Jun 2022 17:20:21 -0000

Defence Minister Anita Anand reacts to reports of Chinese fighter pilots buzzing Canadian planes and discusses moving forward on the recommendations into military sexual misconduct by former Supreme Court Justice Louise Arbour. Former Governor General David Johnston reflects on his personal encounters with the Queen and the future of the monarchy in Canada.

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Justice Minister David Lametti on Gun Control and Quebec's Bill 96, David Frum on school shooting in Texas and Ontario Election Panel

Mon, 30 May 2022 13:57:02 -0000

Justice Minister David Lametti discusses the federal government's gun control measures and reaction to Quebec's new French language law Bill-96. The Atlantic Staff Writer David Frum discusses the challenges in getting tougher gun laws passed in the United States. The Toronto Star's Robert Benzie and Queen's Park Observer Sabrina Nanji weigh-in on the final week of the Ontario election campaign.

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Canada bans Huawei, Smith looks to replace Kenney, and ‘blind spots’ over white terrorism

Sun, 22 May 2022 15:00:00 -0000

This week on ‘The West Block,’ host Mercedes Stephenson speaks with Public Safety Minister Marco Mendicino, who says Canada plans to ban ‘high-risk vendors’ in other sensitive industries in the wake of barring Huawei from the nation’s 5G infrastructure. Then, Stephenson speaks with former Wildrose Party leader Danielle Smith about her goal to lead Alberta’s United Conservative Party following Premier Jason Kenney’s shocking resignation. Plus, the racially motivated mass shooting at a Buffalo, N.Y., supermarket thrust a white supremacist conspiracy theory into the spotlight. Stephenson is joined by extremism research Amarnath Amarasingam on what needs to be done to address white supremacy.

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Immigration Minister Sean Fraser, Kevin Page on Inflation and Lisa Raitt and Monte Solberg on the Conservative Leadership Debate

Sun, 15 May 2022 17:00:00 -0000

Guest host Eric Sorensen speaks to Sean Fraser, Minister of Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship about the latest efforts to bring Ukrainian refugees to Canada. Former parliamentary budget officer Kevin Page discusses inflation and the Bank of Canada. Former Conservative cabinet ministers Lisa Raitt and Monte Solberg weigh-in on the Conservative leadership debate.

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Families, Children and Social Development Minister on Abortion Rights, Former Conservative Cabinet Minister Peter MacKay on the Conservative Leadership Race and an update on the Ontario Election Campaign

Sun, 08 May 2022 17:00:00 -0000

Guest host Eric Sorensen speaks to Karina Gould, Minister of Families, Children and Social Development, about improving access to abortion in Canada. Former Conservative cabinet minister Peter MacKay discusses the first unofficial leadership debate. Two Queen's Park journalists weigh-in on the start of the Ontario election campaign.

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Former NATO Supreme Allied Commander Gen. (Ret.) Philip Breedlove, Public Safety Minister Marco Mendicino, Conservative Leadership Candidate Roman Baber

Sun, 01 May 2022 18:37:16 -0000

Guest host David Akin speaks to retired U.S. General Philip Breedlove, former NATO Supreme Allied Commander about the shift in Western efforts to help Ukraine and Russia's response. Public Safety Minister Marco Mendicino discusses the convoy blockades and the federal Emergencies Act. Conservative leadership candidate Roman Baber explains why he's running to be the new leader of the Conservative Party.

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Russian activist on sanctions and Putin's information war, Brad Wall and James Moore on the Conservative leadership race and a housing policy reality check

Sun, 24 Apr 2022 16:00:00 -0000

Anna Veduta, Vice-President of the Anti-Corruption Foundation and former spokesperson for jailed Russian opposition leader Alexey Navalny discusses the impact of Western sanctions on the Kremlin and Russian President Vladimir Putin's information war. Former Saskatchewan Premier Brad Wall and former Conservative Cabinet Minister James Moore discuss the Conservative leadership race. Housing policy expert Mike Moffatt weighs in on government efforts to make housing more affordable.

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Lt.-Gen Romeo Dallaire (Ret.), Defence Minister Anita Anand and Canadian singer Chantal Kreviazuk

Sat, 23 Apr 2022 22:55:34 -0000

Lt.-Gen Romeo Dallaire (Ret.) discusses Russia's war in Ukraine amidst mounting evidence of war crimes and accusations of genocide. Defence Minister Anita Anand discusses Canada's commitment to provide more military aid to Ukraine. Canadian singer-songwriter Chantal Kreviazuk describes what she's doing to support Ukrainians who are the front lines of the war.

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Finance Minister Chrystia Freeland on Ukraine and the federal budget, NDP Leader Jagmeet Singh and Conservative MP Dan Albas on budget reaction

Mon, 11 Apr 2022 16:59:05 -0000

'West Block' host Mercedes Stephenson speaks to Deputy Prime Minister and Finance Minister Chrystia Freeland about Russia's invasion of Ukraine and last week's federal budget. NDP Leader Jagmeet Singh discusses his party's deal to support the Liberals and how it paid off in the budget. Conservative MP Dan Albas explains his party's opposition to the budget and what Conservatives would have liked to see instead.

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Inuit Tapiriit Kanatami President Natan Obed, Ukrainian MP Lesia Zaburanna, Military culture expert Megan MacKenzie

Sun, 03 Apr 2022 18:00:00 -0000

'The West Block' host Mercedes Stephenson speaks to ITK President Natan Obed about the Pope's historic apology and what needs to happen next. Ukrainian MP Lesia Zaburanna discusses the war in Ukraine and what more Canada can do to help. Simon Fraser University Professor Meghan Mackenzie discusses the implications of Gen. Jonathan Vance's guilty plea and conditional discharge to the military's efforts to change its culture.

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Former U.S. Ambassador to NATO Kurt Volker, Canadian Ambassador to the UN Bob Rae, NDP Leader Jagmeet Singh

Mon, 28 Mar 2022 00:58:08 -0000

Guest host Eric Sorensen speaks to former U.S. Ambassador to NATO and former U.S. Special Representative for Ukraine Kurt Volker about NATO's response to Russia's war in Ukraine. Canada's Ambassador to the UN Bob Rae discusses the diplomatic efforts underway to hold Russia to account for its invasion of Ukraine. NDP Leader Jagmeet Singh explains how the agreement he reached with Prime Minister Justin Trudeau to keep the minority Liberals in power until 2025 is going to work.

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Immigration Minister Sean Fraser, Former UN Ambassador Allan Rock, Conservative Leadership Candidate Scott Aitchison

Sun, 20 Mar 2022 17:00:00 -0000

This week on 'The West Block' guest host David Akin speaks to Immigration Minister Sean Fraser about Ottawa's plan to help Ukrainian refugees come to Canada. Former Canadian Ambassador to the United Nations, Allan Rock, discusses what Western leaders can do to help Ukraine and end Russia's invasion. Conservative leadership candidate, Scott Aitchison, explains why he thinks he's the best option to unite his party and the country.

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Mercedes Stephenson in Moldova, Defence Minister Anita Anand, Natural Resources Minister Jonathan Wilkinson and Former Bank of Canada Governor Stephen Poloz

Sun, 13 Mar 2022 18:00:00 -0000

Guest host David Akin speaks to Mercedes Stephenson about the impact of the war in Ukraine on neighbouring Moldova. Defence Minister Anita Anand weighs in on calls to increase Canada's defence spending. Natural Resources Minister Jonathan Wilkinson discusses global energy prices. Former Governor of the Bank of Canada Stephen Poloz discusses his new book, "The Next Age of Uncertainty".

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The Latvian President on Ukraine, Canada's Ambassador to Ukraine and the Conservative Leadership Race

Sun, 06 Mar 2022 19:00:00 -0000

This week on 'The West Block' Mercedes Stephenson reports from Latvia with an exclusive interview with Latvian President Egils Levits. Guest host Eric Sorensen speaks to Canada's ambassador to Ukraine, Larisa Galadza, about the humanitarian crisis in Ukraine. Conservative strategist Tim Powers discusses potential candidates in the Conservative Party leadership race.

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Foreign Affairs Minister Melanie Joly on Russia's invasion of Ukraine, Canada's UN Ambassador Bob Rae on Diplomacy and a former Obama advisor on Putin's Miscalculation in Ukraine

Tue, 01 Mar 2022 16:24:16 -0000

Foreign Affairs Minister Melanie Joly discusses Canada's efforts along with Western allies to stop Russia's aggression in Ukraine. Charles Kupchan, former senior director for European Affairs in the Obama administration outlines Russian President Vladimir Putin's strategy in Ukraine and why he thinks Putin miscalculated the West's response. Canada's UN Ambassador Bob Rae explains why diplomacy still matters and why Russia needs to be held accountable for its actions in Ukraine.

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Emergency Preparedness Minister Bill Blair on the Emergencies Act and The Atlantic's David Frum on the Blockades

Sun, 20 Feb 2022 17:00:00 -0000

Emergency Preparedness Minister Bill Blair defends the federal government's decision to invoke the Emergencies Act for the first time. Author and writer David Frum discusses why Republican politicians and conservative media outlets embraced the blockade protesters.

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Emergency Preparedness Minister Bill Blair on the blockades, Alberta Premier Jason Kenney on ending Covid Restrictions

Sun, 13 Feb 2022 17:38:09 -0000

Emergency Preparedness Minister Bill Blair tells Mercedes Stephenson that protesters are hurting Canada and he urges police to restore order and enforce the law. Alberta Premier Jason Kenney explains why it is time to pull back on Covid restrictions. National security expert Dean Alexander discusses American support for the blockades.

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Public Safety Minister Marco Mendicino on the blockades, Former Conservative Cabinet Minister John Baird on the Conservative Leadership Race and Retired Ottawa Police Chief Charles Bordeleau on policing the protests

Sun, 13 Feb 2022 16:00:47 -0000

Public Safety Minister Marco Mendicino discusses Ottawa's response to the blockades. Former Conservative Cabinet Minister John Baird endorses MP Pierre Poilievre in the leadership race to replace Erin O'Toole. Retired Ottawa Police Chief Charles Bordeleau explains the challenges for police in ending the blockade in the nation's capital.

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Transport Minister Omar Alghabra on the Trucker Convoy Protest in Ottawa

Sun, 30 Jan 2022 17:00:00 -0000

This week on The West Block, Eric Sorensen speaks to Transport Minister Omar Alghabra about vaccine mandates for truckers and the protests against pandemic restrictions in Ottawa. Former Ukrainian Ambassador to Canada, Andriy Shevchenko discusses Canada's response to the crisis in Ukraine. Former Conservative MP James Cumming reveals highlights of his report from the last federal election.

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Defence Minister Anita Anand on Ukraine and One-On-One with Alberta Premier Jason Kenney

Sun, 23 Jan 2022 17:00:00 -0000

Defence Minister Anita Anand discusses Canada's efforts to support Ukraine as it faces the threat of an invasion from Russia. Mercedes Stephenson speaks with Alberta Premier Jason Kenney about vaccine mandates, his pandemic response and the controversy involving his Justice Minister.

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Federal Health Minister Jean-Yves Duclos on the pandemic and Canada's health care challenges

Sun, 16 Jan 2022 19:00:00 -0000

Health Minister Jean-Yves Duclos on the Omicron surge, vaccine mandates and the challenges facing Canada's health care system. The WHO's Dr. Peter Singer explains why vaccinating the world is the best way to stop the next Omicron from spreading.

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Canada’s place on the world stage, the struggle of returning to remote learning, and a former premier retires

Sun, 09 Jan 2022 16:30:00 -0000

This week on ‘The West Block’, Foreign Affairs Minister Melanie Joly joins host Mercedes Stephenson to discuss Canada’s role in addressing Russia amassing troops on Ukraine’s border and relations with China. Then, millions of students across Canada are once again remote learning. MacLean’s Ottawa bureau chief Shannon Proudfoot shares her family’s struggle with navigating virtual schooling. Plus, the Nova Scotia Liberals will choose their second leader in just under a year. Former premier Iain Rankin is resigning as party leader and joins Stephenson to look back at his time in office.

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One On One with Governor General Mary Simon

Sun, 02 Jan 2022 18:00:00 -0000

Mercedes Stephenson sits down with Governor General Mary Simon for a feature interview. Simon reflects on her appointment as Canada's first Indigenous Governor General. She speaks about the need for an ongoing conversation about reconciliation with Indigenous people. She describes her childhood and bridging two cultures. She also explains why she wants to be a unifying force for all Canadians.

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In Conversation with Prime Minister Justin Trudeau

Sun, 26 Dec 2021 18:00:00 -0000

Mercedes Stephenson sits down with Prime Minister Justin Trudeau for a revealing and candid year-end interview. Trudeau discusses the impact the pandemic is having on Canadians and the way forward. He reflects on the release of the two Michaels' and navigating Canada's relationship with China. Trudeau addresses criticism of his government's efforts in getting Afghan refugees to Canada. He also discusses the need for culture change in the Canadian military.

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The rise of Omicron, new border measures, and an update on overhauling military culture

Sun, 19 Dec 2021 14:00:00 -0000

This week on ‘The West Block’, Transport Minister Omar Alghabra joins host Mercedes Stephenson to discuss why the federal government is reintroducing travel restrictions when most Omicron spread in Canada is community based. Then, Stephenson sits down with Lt.-Gen. Jennie Carignan to talk about her five-year plan to reshape military culture following the sexual misconduct scandal.

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Pandemic Travel Rules, Fiscal Update and the Cost of Living, Canada-China Relations

Sun, 12 Dec 2021 19:00:00 -0000

Host Abigail Bimman speaks to Conservative Party MP Melissa Lantsman and NDP MP Jenny Kwan about the Auditor General Report critical of Ottawa's quarantine measures for travellers. Former Bank of Canada Governor Stephen Poloz weighs in on inflation, cost of living and the fiscal update. Former Canadian Ambassador to China Guy Saint-Jacques on the implications for Canada after Ottawa announces a diplomatic boycott of the Beijing Winter Olympics.

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Ottawa's New Travel Rules to Stop the Spread of Omicron, Why is the new variant such a risk and Canada takes trade disputes to Washington

Sun, 05 Dec 2021 17:00:00 -0000

Transport Minister Omar Alghabra explains the new travel rules for air passengers on international flights and defends why flights to the United States are not included. Infectious diseases physician Dr. Zain Chagla answers questions about the new Omicron variant and why increasing vaccine rates globally should be a priority. An update on Canada-US trade irritants and why the new US Ambassador to Canada could be a game-changer.

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One on One with Canada's Chief of the Defence Staff Gen. Wayne Eyre and NDP Leader Jagmeet Singh on the cost of living

Sun, 28 Nov 2021 19:30:00 -0000

The Chief of the Defence Staff General Wayne Eyre explains why changing military culture is so important for the future of the Canadian military. NDP Leader Jagmeet Singh weighs-in on rising inflation and the cost of living.

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What to watch for at the North American Leaders' Summit and Elizabeth May on COP26

Sun, 14 Nov 2021 17:00:00 -0000

Canada's Ambassador to the United States, Kirsten Hillman, discusses some of the challenges facing Canada-US relations ahead of the "Three Amigos" Summit in Washington. Green Party Parliamentary Leader Elizabeth May explains why Canada's commitments at COP26 don't go far enough when it comes to fighting climate change.

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Defence Minister Anita Anand on Sexual Misconduct Cases in the Military and Safe Houses in Afghanistan shut down

Sun, 07 Nov 2021 17:00:00 -0000

Defence Minister Anita Anand explains what she's doing to address sexual misconduct cases in the military. Canadian veterans and volunteers are forced to close safe houses in Kabul due to lack of funding.

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Intergovernmental Affairs Minister Dominic LeBlanc on cabinet priorities, Lisa Raitt and Anne McLellan on Women in Senior Leadership Roles and Canada's Record ahead of the UN Climate Summit

Sun, 31 Oct 2021 16:30:00 -0000

Guest host Eric Sorensen speaks to Intergovernmental Affairs Minister Dominic LeBlanc about Ottawa's priorities as a new federal cabinet is sworn in. Former federal cabinet ministers Lisa Raitt and Anne McLellan discuss the importance of women at the cabinet table. Canadian climate change activist Tzeporah Berman says the Trudeau government doesn't have the best record heading to COP26 in Glasgow.

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Employment Minister Carla Qualtrough on implications for workers who refuse vaccine mandates and former Environment Minister Catherine McKenna on COP26

Sun, 24 Oct 2021 19:00:00 -0000

Guest host Mike Le Couteur speaks to Employment Minister Carla Qualtrough about Ottawa's changes to its pandemic support programs and whether workers who refuse vaccine mandates and leave their jobs can qualify for employment insurance. Former Liberal cabinet minister Catherine McKenna takes her fight against climate change to the UN. Prime Minister Justin Trudeau gets ready to unveil his new cabinet.

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Public Safety Minister Bill Blair on Canada-US Border Reopening and an MP panel debates the return to Parliament

Mon, 18 Oct 2021 21:42:00 -0000

Public Safety Minister Bill Blair speaks to guest host Abigail Bimman about what Canadians need to know when the Canada-US land border reopens on November 8th. A newly-elected MPs panel debates the re-opening of parliament and vaccine mandates for MPs. An emergency room nurse in Montreal reacts to Quebec's decision to delay suspending unvaccinated health care workers.

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AFN National Chief RoseAnne Archibald on why Canada's first National Day of Truth and Reconciliation was deeply personal and emotional

Sun, 03 Oct 2021 19:00:00 -0000

AFN National Chief RoseAnne Archibald describes how she spent Canada's first National Day of Truth and Reconciliation and why she's disappointed in Prime Minister Justin Trudeau. Environment Minister Jonathan Wilkinson discusses Canada's climate change goals ahead of next month's major UN Summit in Glasgow. The Chief Medical Officer for the Saskatchewan Health Authority describes the health care crisis facing the province as Covid-19 cases continue to rise.

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Foreign Affairs Minister Marc Garneau on the release of the two Michaels'

Sun, 26 Sep 2021 16:49:00 -0000

Freed Canadian detainee Michael Kovrig thanks Canadians for their support. While Foreign Affairs Minister Marc Garneau discusses the future of Canada-China relations. And Alberta NDP Leader Rachel Notley explains why she believes the province's health care crisis could have been avoided.

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What was this federal election about? The West Block Political Panel and Ipsos Pollster Darrell Bricker

Sun, 19 Sep 2021 19:00:00 -0000

The West Block's Political Panel weighs in on the highs and lows of the federal election campaign. And Ipsos CEO Darrell Bricker explains why he thinks this election is one of the most exciting in years.

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One on One with NDP Leader Jagmeet Singh and Negative Ads hit the Federal Election Campaign

Sun, 05 Sep 2021 16:00:00 -0000

NDP Leader Jagmeet Singh has a growing following on social media. He wants Canadians to know he can be that guy and Prime Minister too. The West Block Political Panel weighs in on negative campaign ads and the upcoming leaders debates.

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Foreign Affairs Minister Marc Garneau defends Canada's response to crisis in Afghanistan

Mon, 30 Aug 2021 04:13:00 -0000

The Minister of Foreign Affairs says Ottawa is focused on helping Canadians and vulnerable Afghans leave Afghanistan despite Canada's air mission wrapping up. Liberal Leader Justin Trudeau's campaign is hounded by angry protesters. The West Block Political Panel weighs in on Week Two of the election campaign.

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Canada's Response to the chaos in Afghanistan. The West Block's Election Panel Weighs in on Week One

Sun, 22 Aug 2021 16:00:00 -0000

Immigration Minister Marco Mendicino discusses the latest efforts to get Canadian citizens and Afghans who helped Canada out of Afghanistan. The West Block Political Panel weighs in on the issues and stories that dominated the first week of the campaign trail.

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Erin O'Toole on election speculation and calls to cancel Canada Day

Sun, 27 Jun 2021 16:00:00 -0000

This week on the West Block, a feature interview with Opposition leader Erin O'Toole as election speculation heats up in Ottawa. First Nations children's advocate Cindy Blackstock says Canada is failing Indigenous children. And the debate surrounding Canada Day. Plus, Global News Chief Political correspondent David Akin and Mercedes Stephenson reflect on the challenges of holding politicians to account during the pandemic.

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Changing vaccine guidance, military misconduct and why the Winnipeg lab incident is making waves on the Hill

Sun, 20 Jun 2021 16:00:00 -0000

Changing vaccine guidance, military misconduct and why the Winnipeg lab incident is making waves on the Hill

On this week’s edition of ‘The West Block’ host Mercedes Stephenson speaks with one of the country’s top medical minds - Dr. Peter Jüni, director of Ontario’s COVID-19 Science Advisory Table – about how Canadians should respond to the evolving vaccine advice. She also speaks with two key MPs who are examining the military misconduct file; the Parliamentary Secretary to the Minister of National Defence, Anita Vandenbeld, and Conservative MP James Bezan. And Stephenson talks to Global News investigative journalist Sam Cooper about why the Conservatives are accusing the government of covering up an incident that caused two scientists at Canada's highest security laboratory to be fired.

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Online hate and intolerance; Canada-U.S. border; Green Party strife

Sun, 13 Jun 2021 15:30:00 -0000

This week on ‘The West Block’ podcast Mercedes Stephenson speaks with Mohammed Hashim, executive director of the Canadian Race Relations Foundation, about the rise of online hate and intolerance in Canada. She also speaks with U.S. congressman and co-chair of the Northern Border Caucus Brian Higgins about when the Canada-U.S. border will be open for travel once again. And Green Party Leader Annamie Paul joins Mercedes to discuss internal conflicts in the party and is asked why former Green MP Jenica Atwin crossed the floor to the Liberals.

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Trudeau must fulfill vow of ‘transformative’ change for Indigenous people: Wilson-Raybould

Sun, 06 Jun 2021 15:30:00 -0000

The time is now for Prime Minister Justin Trudeau to finally act on his vow to create “transformative” policy and legal change for Indigenous people, says former cabinet minister Jody Wilson-Raybould. In an interview with The West Block‘s Mercedes Stephenson, the Independent MP for Vancouver-Granville says while Trudeau has taken action during his time in government to support Indigenous communities, he hasn’t yet lived up to his promise to create “transformative” change. The West Block‘s Mercedes Stephenson also interviews Indigenous Services Minister Marc Miller to ask him about the federal government’s ongoing efforts to transform its relationship with Indigenous communities, in the wake of the discovery of the remains of 215 children in unmarked burial sites at the former Kamloops Residential School.

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When will international borders open? Checking in on the front lines of one of Canada’s COVID-19 hotspots. And an MP panel on next steps in the defence committee’s military misconduct study

Wed, 26 May 2021 14:19:22 -0000

The West Block‘s Mercedes Stephenson talks with Intergovernmental Affairs Minister Dominic LeBlanc about what benchmarks his government will use to determine when to open the border to international travel. Winnipeg’s mayor Brian Bowman talks about the “dire” situation facing his city and province. And what’s next for the defence committee’s investigation into sexual misconduct in the Canadian Armed Forces.

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"Preferred" COVID-19 vaccines, Trudeau's chief of staff testifies

Fri, 14 May 2021 15:00:00 -0000

This week The West Block guest host Abigail Bimman interviews Alan Bernstein -- a member of Canada’s COVID-19 Vaccine Task force and chair of the lesser known federal Variants of Concern Scientific Advisory Council -- about NACI’s pronouncements on “preferred” vaccines; Intergovernmental Affairs Minister Dominic LeBlanc talks about Katie Telford’s testimony before the Defence Committee; Mayor Naheed Nenshi addresses the frightening rise in COVID-19 cases in Alberta, and he has some harsh words for the “anti-mask” protesters in his city.

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‘We’re sorry’: Sajjan apologizes to victims of military sexual misconduct

Tue, 04 May 2021 13:05:48 -0000

For months, Global News has brought you stories from survivors of sexual violence in Canada’s military. This week on the ‘The West Block,’ defence minister Harjit Sajjan defends his government’s move to launch yet another external review of the problem, promising swift action to stamp out sexual misconduct from the Canadian Forces once and for all.

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Jean Chrétien reflects on the life and times of Prince Philip

Sun, 11 Apr 2021 15:00:00 -0000

On this week’s edition of ‘The West Block’ podcast, Mercedes Stephenson speaks with former prime minister Jean Chrétien about his memories of Prince Philip. She also interviews employment minister Carla Qualtrough about whether the new COVID-19 lockdowns will lead to further layoffs for the Canadian job market. And she speaks with a mayor who is at the front lines of the COVID-19 “inferno” – Mississauga Mayor Bonnie Crombie – about what needs to be done to get the pandemic under control.

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IN HER WORDS: The woman behind the Adm. McDonald allegation tells her story

Sun, 28 Mar 2021 15:00:00 -0000

The woman at the heart of a sexual misconduct investigation into Adm. Art McDonald says she is speaking out after details of her case leaked without her consent last month. In an exclusive interview on ‘The West Block' podcast, navy Lt. Heather Macdonald tells Mercedes Stephenson she hopes her story will help bring justice to other Canadian Forces members who have experienced misconduct in the military.

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What’s next for the two Michaels?

Mon, 22 Mar 2021 16:00:00 -0000

On this week’s edition of The West Block podcast, Mercedes Stephenson interviews Intergovernmental Affairs Minister Dominic LeBlanc about the Canadian government’s strategy to bring home the two Canadians who are being arbitrarily detained in China and are now facing a trial. She also speaks with Kevin Garratt, who was detained in China for 775 days back in 2014, about what will happen to the two Michaels during the trial phase of their arbitrary detention. And two of Ottawa’s top journalists join Stephenson to discuss the latest developments in the military’s sexual misconduct scandal.

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New allegations of sexual misconduct in the military and Department of National Defence

Sun, 14 Mar 2021 15:02:39 -0000

In an exclusive interview with ‘The West Block’ podcast host Mercedes Stephenson, DND employee and former combat arms officer Alex Auclair shares her disturbing account of an alleged sexual assault she says she experienced at the hands of senior department executive – and the lack of support she felt when she first sought help. And Erin O’Toole on the ongoing controversy and whether the former Conservative government had thoroughly vetted the former chief of the defence staff, Gen. Jonathan Vance, before his appointment.

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Fallout from the allegations of sexual misconduct in the military continues to rock the Trudeau government

Sun, 07 Mar 2021 16:00:00 -0000

NDP Leader Jagmeet Singh reacts to explosive testimony from the Defence Committee about allegations of sexual misconduct in the military, and an MP panel discusses who knew what and when in the Trudeau government — and why the allegations of sexual misconduct against former Chief of Defence Staff Gen. Jonathan Vance were not thoroughly investigated when they first surfaced in 2018. And Uyghur rights activist, Mehmet Tohti, calls on Liberal government to take action.

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Crisis in the Canadian Armed Forces

Sun, 28 Feb 2021 16:20:00 -0000

On this week’s edition of ‘The West Block’ podcast, Mercedes Stephenson has a follow-up interview with the woman who “open the locked door of secrets” about allegations of sexual misconduct in Canada’s military to talk about what should happen now. Stephenson also asks Prime Minister Justin Trudeau what specific actions his government is going to take to stamp out the problems plaguing the Canadian Armed Forces. And a conversation with Michael Kovrig’s wife Vina Nadjibulla about her hope that President Biden’s strong words last week, will result in action to release the two Canadians jailed in China.

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In her own words: One of the women behind Vance allegations tells her story

Sun, 28 Feb 2021 15:30:00 -0000

On 'The West Block' podcast Maj. Kellie Brennan describes herself as a warrior scarred by her service in the Canadian Forces. She is now breaking her silence on allegations of inappropriate behaviour against General Jonathan Vance, the former chief of the defence staff. In an exclusive interview with Mercedes Stephenson, Brennan says the time has come to tell her story, sounding the alarm about the barriers complainants of sexual misconduct still face all too often in Canada’s military.

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Vaccine divide: provincial procurement and Ottawa’s response

Sun, 14 Feb 2021 16:00:00 -0000

‘The West Block’ podcast host Mercedes Stephenson speaks to Manitoba Premier Brian Pallister who says the federal government has blocked the provinces ability to procure COVID-19 vaccines from suppliers Ottawa has agreements with. But, Minister of Intergovernmental Affairs, Dominic LeBlanc, says Ottawa has not signed deals disallowing provinces from buying vaccines. Mercedes Stephenson also presses Huawei Canada’s Vice President of Government Affairs Morgan Elliott on why the company won’t condemn the arbitrary detention of the two Michaels in China.

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Pandemic politics: COVID-19 border measures, airline angst, vaccine frustrations

Sun, 31 Jan 2021 16:00:00 -0000

On ‘The West Block’ podcast this week Mercedes Stephenson speaks to Canada’s Minister of Transport Omar Alghabra, Unifor National President Jerry Dias, Providence Therapeutics CEO Brad Sorenson and Canadian Medical Association President Dr. Ann Collins.

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GG resigns; Pipeline politics; COVID-19 vaccine delays

Sun, 24 Jan 2021 16:00:00 -0000

Mercedes Stephenson is joined on 'The West Block' podcast by Minister of Intergovernmental Affairs Dominic LeBlanc, Alberta Premier Jason Kenney and U.S. Chargé d'Affaires in Ottawa Katherine Brucker. Minister LeBlanc says Julie Payette’s resignation as Canada’s governor general “allows the employees of Rideau Hall to have an appropriate workplace and it allows a renewal of the leadership at this important institution.” On U.S. President Joe Biden’s move to cancel Keystone XL, Premier Kenney says ‘it’s a very bad starting point’ for Canada-U.S. relations under a new administration. When asked about Biden's decision, Brucker says “it’s important to know that this is a presidential decision based on a larger climate agenda.”

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Mercedes Stephenson’s full interview with General Jonathan Vance

Sun, 17 Jan 2021 16:00:00 -0000

On 'The West Block' podcast this week Mercedes Stephenson speaks to former Chief of the Defence Staff General Jonathan Vance just before his final day as commander of the Canadian Armed Forces. They talk Operation Honour, global instability and he reflects on his time as the longest serving chief of the defence staff in this full extended interview.

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New Year, new priorities, new challenges?

Sun, 03 Jan 2021 16:00:00 -0000

This week on ‘The West Block’ podcast Mercedes Stephenson looks ahead to 2021 and reflects on the global pandemic that changed everything. Dr. Isaac Bogoch, the doctor all over the news delivering the latest information on COVID-19, tells Mercedes he really does believe things will slowly start to get back to normal this year. Green Party Leader Annamie Paul reflects on the social gaps highlighted by the pandemic; she says, "it’s really about completing the social safety net and making sure that people in Canada can live in dignity from the first day of their lives to the very last moment.” Global News’ Ottawa correspondents have their yearly discussion on the year that was and the year to come.

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Trudeau looks back on 2020: “Lots of things we learned that we could have done differently”

Sun, 27 Dec 2020 16:00:00 -0000

In a sit down interview with ‘The West Block’ host Mercedes Stephenson, Prime Minister Trudeau reflects on the government’s pandemic response and what he would do differently. He also opens about what he thinks his father would have said if he was alive to see his son leading the country through this pandemic. Mercedes also presses the Prime Minister about why the country wasn’t properly prepared for the pandemic.

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Foreign affairs minister opens up about international diplomacy during a global pandemic

Sun, 20 Dec 2020 16:00:00 -0000

Mercedes Stephenson sits down with Foreign Affairs Minister, François-Philippe Champagne for a year-end interview on ‘The West Block' podcast. In the full interview, Minister Champagne recounts his experience coordinating the repatriation of Canadians across the globe, details Canada’s policy approach to a “changing” China and looks ahead to the new year.

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The first COVID-19 vaccine has been approved in Canada — now what?

Sun, 13 Dec 2020 21:08:28 -0000

On 'The West Block' this week, Mercedes Stephenson gets the latest on Canada’s COVID-19 vaccine procurement and manufacturing efforts following Health Canada’s approval of the Pfizer-BioNTech vaccine. She speaks to Pfizer Canada President Cole Pinnow. He says Pfizer wants to partner with the Canadian government to find ways to change policies that “jeopardize” the opportunity for Canadians to have breakthrough medicines and therapies moving forward. Public Service and Procurement Minister Anita Anand defends Canada’s vaccine portfolio and says the federal government is investing in domestic manufacturing and research.

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COVID-19: record-breaking case numbers and Canada’s fiscal fallout

Sun, 06 Dec 2020 16:00:00 -0000

This week on ‘The West Block’ podcast Mercedes Stephenson gets answers on the uptick in COVID-19 cases across the country, particularly in Alberta, and the economic consequences of the virus. Mercedes probes Deputy Prime Minister and Finance Minister Chrystia Freeland on the economic update and fiscal guardrails. Opposition health critic Michelle Rempel Garner weighs in on vaccine distribution and the pandemic response. Alberta’s Health Minister Tyler Shandro warns of more public health measures in the province if cases continue to climb.

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Pandemic Politics: Canada’s COVID-19 vaccine rollout

Sun, 29 Nov 2020 16:00:00 -0000

On The West Block podcast, Mercedes Stephenson takes a deep dive into Canada’s plan to distribute the COVID-19 vaccine. Intergovernmental Affairs Minister, Dominic LeBlanc, says Canada is “certainly in the top five” when it comes to getting the vaccine. Saskatchewan Premier, Scott Moe, tells Mercedes the feds should be ramping up their procurement efforts. The new Vice President Logistics and Operations at PHAC, Major-General Dany Fortin, outlines how he and the military will play a role in distributing the vaccine to Canadians once it’s approved by Health Canada.

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Bonus: Ontario’s COVID-19 vaccine rollout a no fail mission: General Hillier

Sun, 29 Nov 2020 13:00:00 -0000

Mercedes Stephenson sits down with the head of Ontario’s COVID-19 Vaccine Distribution Task Force, General Rick Hillier. In this full, unedited interview, General Hillier says Ontario Premier Doug Ford assured him he will have the resources needed to make this mission successful and the first day the vaccine arrives, ‘we’ll be ready.’

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COVID-19: ‘drastic’ action needed as surging cases raise alarm bells across Canada

Sun, 22 Nov 2020 16:00:00 -0000

On The West Block this week, Mercedes Stephenson probes into Canada’s response to COVID-19. Former Health Minister, Dr. Jane Philpott, weighs in on lockdowns, testing and COVID-19 data. Dr. Philpott says Canada needs to contain the spread before it reaches ‘worst case scenarios.’ Nunavut Premier Joe Savikataaq says they are looking into how so many cases surged across the territory and urges Canadians, ‘if you don’t have to travel, please don’t travel to another community.’ Going South of the border, Delaware Senator Chris Coons offers insight to what a Joe Biden presidency will mean for Canada.

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Bonus: full interview with Opposition Leader Erin O'Toole

Sun, 15 Nov 2020 17:22:29 -0000

Check out Mercedes Stephenson's full interview with Conservative Leader, Erin O’Toole this week on The West Block podcast. O’Toole tells Mercedes his party will put forward an opposition day motion calling on the Liberal government to be tougher on China; he says Canada’s Prime Minister has been “too close and naïve from day one.”

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COVID-19 response, fallout of Canada’s second wave

Sun, 15 Nov 2020 17:15:45 -0000

On The West Block podcast this week Mercedes Stephenson recounts the record numbers of COVID-19 cases that continue to sweep across the country. She asks Conservative Party Leader, Erin O’Toole, about his take on Canada’s response to the pandemic. Internationally, O’Toole says it’s time for Prime Minister Justin Trudeau to get serious on China from a security, human rights and trade perspective. Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Minister, Marco Mendicino, says Canada continues to take a “strong and principled” stand on China. And for a look inside the municipal response to COVID-19, Mercedes talks to Calgary Mayor Naheed Nenshi, who says COVID-19 restrictions need to be smart and targeted to slow the spread of the virus.

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What will a Biden presidency mean for Canada?

Sun, 08 Nov 2020 18:52:00 -0000

On this week’s US election edition of The West Block podcast, Mercedes Stephenson talks with former chair of the Democratic National Committee about why the election was so close? She also talks with Canada’s Foreign Affairs Minister about what a Biden presidency will mean for Canada. Whitehouse reporter for Bloomberg News Josh Wingrove lays out what Trump’s next moves will likely be. And former Canadian Ambassador to the United States Gary Doer talks about what will happen to the Keystone pipeline now that Joe Biden is president.

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U.S. election impact on Canada, Dr. Theresa Tam on the next phase of the pandemic and the path forward for Canada’s resources sector

Sun, 01 Nov 2020 16:34:58 -0000

In this week’s edition of The West Block podcast, Mercedes Stephenson speaks with former foreign affairs Minister John Baird about the U.S. election, Canada’s top doctor Theresa Tam about the second wave of the pandemic and an interview with Natural Resources Minister Seamus O’Regan about the path forward for the Keystone pipeline project if Joe Biden wins the presidency.

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Canada is nowhere near herd immunity to the coronavirus as second wave surges: Dr. Tam

Sun, 01 Nov 2020 16:00:00 -0000

The West Block's full interview with Canada's top doctor, Dr. Theresa Tam. “We’re only at a few percentage points in terms of the immunity in our population. That leaves over 90 per cent of the population, or 95 per cent of the population still vulnerable,” says Dr. Tam.

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The perpetual electoral threat, John Bolton on potential post US election “chaos” and the seniors minister on the protecting the elderly in the second wave of the pandemic

Sun, 25 Oct 2020 15:00:00 -0000

Mercedes Stephenson talks to strategists about which political party would gain by forcing a federal election during the pandemic – this week’s West Block panel includes conservative strategist Melissa Lantsman, NDP strategist Robin MacLachlan and Liberal strategist Richard Mahoney. Former White House national security advisor John Bolton opens up about how he expects President Trump to respond to the election outcome. And seniors minister Deb Schulte shares her own story of losing a loved one in a long-term care home amid the pandemic.

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Ottawa’s response to the second wave of COVID-19, business shut-downs and the worsening lobster fishing dispute on the east coast

Sun, 18 Oct 2020 15:01:31 -0000

The West Block host Mercedes Stephenson speaks with Minister of Small Business Mary Ng about the second wave of forced business closures and what the federal government is doing to help. National Chief of the Assembly of First Nations Perry Bellegarde talks about what needs to be done to resolve a worsening dispute between Indigenous and non-Indigenous fishers on the east coast. And a panel of parliamentarians discuss why the WE affair is being resurrected on Parliament Hill.

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Bonus Episode: full interview with Canada's chief science advisor

Sun, 11 Oct 2020 15:30:00 -0000

Check out the full interview with Mona Nemer, Canada's chief science advisor. Nemer says researchers will likely know by the end of this year whether they have developed a usable vaccine. If they have, she said, it could be available to Canadians by early 2021. Nemer gave a wide-ranging interview on this week’s edition “The West Block” about the status of the pandemic globally and Canada’s efforts to slow the spread of the virus.

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Pandemic politics: Canada’s second wave

Sun, 11 Oct 2020 15:00:00 -0000

As Canada enters the second wave of the pandemic, The West Block host Mercedes Stephenson talks to Canada’s chief science advisor about this country’s efforts to slow the spread of the virus. Justice Minister David Lametti talks about the challenges facing the court system. And former federal health minister and interim Conservative leader Rona Ambrose weighs in on the emergency response to the coronavirus pandemic taking place across the country.

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COVID-19 second wave; EI changes; new Green Party leader

Sun, 04 Oct 2020 15:40:00 -0000

Mercedes Stephenson unpacks headlines of the week as the second wave of COVID-19 sweeps over Canada. She speaks with Global News’ Washington Bureau Chief, Jackson Proskow, about US President Donald Trump testing positive for COVID-19. Employment, Workforce Development and Disability Inclusion Minister, Carla Qualtrough, speaks about the changes to EI. Conservative Deputy Leader Candice Bergen weighs in on the Liberal’s plan for the second wave of COVID-19. Annamie Paul joins Mercedes to discuss her new role as the leader of the Green Party of Canada.

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Throne Speech Fallout

Sun, 27 Sep 2020 12:33:13 -0000

Deputy Prime Minister and Finance Minister Chrystia Freeland speaks to West Block host Mercedes Stephenson about the billions of dollars the government is spending to fight the pandemic, Jagmeet Singh on how he struck a deal with the Liberals on paid sick leave to avert a fall election and Manitoba Premier Brian Pallister talks about his deep disappointment in Liberal government’s Throne Speech.

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Throne Speech Preview

Sun, 20 Sep 2020 14:45:00 -0000

Throne Speech Preview : Dominic LeBlanc, Jason Kenney and Jagmeet Singh outline their priorities for the federal government as COVID-19 cases surge in Canada. Intergovernmental Affairs Minister Dominic LeBlanc lays out the government’s priorities for the upcoming throne speech, Alberta premier Jason Kenney explains why he feels Ottawa should increase health care funding by $28 B each year, reaction toConservative Leader Erin O'Toole testing positive for COVID-19, and Jagmeet Singh explains his red-line in the sand for an election.

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Ethics, WE and China

Sun, 12 Jul 2020 15:30:00 -0000

The A block includes a MPs panel talking about the WE Charity controversy and the Prime Minister and his family with Liberal Arif Virani, Conservative Michael Barrett and NDP Don Davies. Then we do further analysis with journalists David Akin and Supriya Dwivedi.

The B block includes an interview with former Prime Minister of Australia Kevin Rudd discussing China.

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Fiscal snapshot, Indigenous concerns and China....fears if an anti-China coalition

Sun, 05 Jul 2020 15:00:00 -0000

The government will be announcing its economic snapshot in a few days, how has COVID-19 affected the national economy? Then how has the black lives matter protests impacted Indigenous issues in Canada, plus what nations need to do when it comes to managing China?

Guests: Ken Peacock, Business Council of B.C.; Phil Fontaine, Former National Chief for the Assembly of First Nations; Bonnie Glaser, Center for Strategic and International Studies

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Detained in China, an east coast bubble and western separation

Sun, 28 Jun 2020 15:00:00 -0000

This week we look at China....the diplomatic divide it is causing within Canada...should Magnitsky sanctions be used against Chinese officials, plus the east coast bubble and calls for separation.

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China...racism on the hill and the leadership debates

Sun, 21 Jun 2020 15:00:00 -0000

Late last week China announced it was charging two Canadians Michael Spavor and Michael Korvig with espionage. They have been detained in China since December 2018, shortly after Huawei Executive Meng Wanzhou was arrested in Vancouver. What happens next? Plus systemic racism in Canada and the race to be the next leader of the Conservative Party of Canada.

Guests: David Mulroney, Canada's Former Ambassador to Canada; Dan Vandal, Minister of Northern Affairs; Gilles Duceppe, Former Bloc Quebecois Leader

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Systemic racism and a divided House

Sun, 14 Jun 2020 15:00:00 -0000

Disturbing new video leads to renewed calls for action against systemic racism within the RCMP and in communities and institutions across the country. Plus the political battle on COVID-19 funding and accountability.

Guests: Carla Qualtrough, Minister for Employment Workforce Development & Inclusion; Perry Bellegarde, National Chief of the Assembly of First Nations; Sean Fraser, Parliamentary Secretary to the Minister of Finance; Pierre Poilievre, Conservative Finance Critic

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Racism...protests and marches, will it change anything?

Sun, 07 Jun 2020 15:00:00 -0000

Racism....what can the federal government do to end systemic racism? Plus will the marches and protests south of the border change anything?

Guests: Bardish Chagger, Minister of Diversity, Inclusion and Youth; Jagmeet Singh, NDP Leader Jagmeet Singh; Author and sociology professor at Georgetown University, Michael Eric Dyson

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WB PODCAST MAY 31

Sun, 31 May 2020 15:00:00 -0000

Policing questions, Long-Term care concerns, Canada-China relations and Hong Kong unease with China's new national security legislation.

Guests: John Tory,Toronto Mayor; Rob Oliphant, Parliamentary Secretary to the Minister of Foreign Affairs; Garnett Genuis, Conservative Sherwood Park–Fort Saskatchewan; Emily Lau, Former Chair of the Hong Kong Democratic Party

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Economic recovery following COVID-19, China and CPC leadership

Sun, 24 May 2020 15:00:00 -0000

In this episode we take a look at the billions being spent by the federal government during this pandemic, when will there be an economic update? Plus we'll talk to Canada's former Ambassador to China about the Canada-China relationship, and then a conversation with former cabinet minister Peter MacKay on his campaign to be the next leader of the Conservative Party of Canada.

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China and COVID-19, seniors in long term care plus labour rights

Sat, 16 May 2020 15:30:00 -0000

In this edition of The West Block we talk to China's Ambassador to Canada about a full investigation in how COVID-19 started...plus the latest on the two Canadians detained in China. Then we speak to Canada's federal seniors minister about help for seniors during this pandemic. Then we talk to a labour lawyer about what rights workers have when heading back to work.

Guests: Cong Peiwu, China's Ambassador to Canada; Deb Schulte, Minister of Seniors; Howard Levitt, Employment and Labour Lawyer

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Reopening during COVID 19, civil liberties and mental health

Sun, 10 May 2020 15:00:00 -0000

In this episode of The West Block we look at reopening the economy during the COVID 19 pandemic, what civil liberties may have been lost during the coronavirus...and the increase in those suffering from mental health illness because they have lost their job or stuck at home.

Guests: Adrian Hill, B.C. Health Minister; Michael Bryan, Canadian Civil Liberties Association; Margaret Eaton, Canadian Mental Health Association CEO

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Semi automatic weapon ban, hard times in Alberta and COVID-19 in meat packing plants

Sun, 03 May 2020 15:00:00 -0000

Semi automatic weapons designed for military use is now banned in Canada, but what more is the government planning when it comes to gun control? Plus hard times in Alberta, what lies ahead for this western province? And workers at meat packing plants in Canada are testing positive COVID-19, what are their concerns inside these facilities?

Guests: Bill Blair, Public Safety Minister; Jason Kenney, Alberta Premier; Paul Meinama, United Food and Commercial Workers Union Presiden

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COVID-19, from lockdown to re-open, Nova Scotia mourns and coronavirus security challenges

Sun, 26 Apr 2020 15:00:00 -0000

How does a province re-open following a lockdown? Plus one week after the biggest mass shooting in Canada, how are residents in Nova Scotia doing? Then, security challenges with the COVID-19 pandemic, why NATO countries should keep spending on defense.

Guests: Scott Moe, Saskatchewan Premier; Larry Harrison, MLA Colchester-Musquodoboit Valley; Jens Stoltenbery, NATO Secretary General

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COVID-19, long-term health care, energy woes and re-opening businesses

Sun, 19 Apr 2020 15:00:00 -0000

In this episode we look at the impact of COVID-19 on long-term health care homes, why are so many people dying? Then the government has announced more financial help for the oil and gas sector, is it enough? Plus we look at one business and the protocols they are putting in place for when they re-open their doors.

Guests: Donna Duncan, Ontario Long-Terms Care Association CEO; Jason Dixon, Alberta Minister of Environment & Parks, Government House Leader; Linda Hasenfratz, Linamar CEO

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COVID-19: businesses, food supply chain and myth busting

Sun, 12 Apr 2020 15:00:00 -0000

In this episode of The West Block we look at the governments' help to the business community, is it enough? Then we hear stories about dairy farmers dumping milk, customers not finding yeast or flour at the grocery store--how is our food supply is being affected by the coronavirus. And finally an interview with a politician on a new website designed to correct misinformation about COVID-19.

Guests: Perrin Beatty, Chamber of Commerce President; Sylvain Charlebois, Dalhousie University; Nathaniel Erskine-Smith, Liberal-Ontario

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COVID-19; wage subsidies, on the frontlines and help for anxiety

Sun, 05 Apr 2020 11:20:51 -0000

In this episode we look at some of the measures the government has announced to help small and medium sized businesses, plus one politician has returned to the frontlines as an ER nurse, why? Then we'll talk to a professor who has come up with a free online course to help people cope with their anxiety during this pandemic.

Guests: Mary Ng, Minister of Small Business, Export Promotion and International Trade; MPP Natalia Kusendova, Mississauga Centre; Steve Joordens, professor of psychology at the University of Toronto Scarborough

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COVID-19 Canada-US border and front line workers facing medical shortages

Sun, 29 Mar 2020 15:30:00 -0000

This week we take a look at COVID-19 and how it is impacting relations between Canada and the US as the White House wanted to add troops within 30 km of the border to prevent illegal border crossings. Then medical supplies rationed...what is this doing to those on the frontlines? And how is the coronavirus affecting Canadians?

Guests: Mercedes Stephenson, (Show host self-isolating); Lt. Gen. (ret'd) Andrew Leslie, Bluesky Strategy Group; Linda Silas, president of the Canadian Federation of Nurses Unions; David Coletto, Abacus Data

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Coronavirus concerns, travel warnings and global economic impact

Sun, 15 Mar 2020 15:30:00 -0000

Governments are telling its citizens to avoid travelling outside the country and while here at home social distance, work from home if possible...this after providing more economic fiscal stimulus to help combat the impact of COVID-19. Is this enough? How is the business community responding? And the markets? Is there a silver lining?

Guests: Dr Gigi Osler, Former President Canadian Medical Association; Goldy Hyder, President Canadian Business Council; Philip Cross, Macdonald-Laurier Institute; Peter Zeihan, Geopolitical Expert

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Coronavirus: we are not nearly as prepared as we need to be

Fri, 13 Mar 2020 12:41:09 -0000

Jamie Metzl, WHO Advisory Committee Member; technologist and health care futurist, tells David Akin, the United States is lacking leadership on COVID-19 and given outbreak data, this virus will get much worse with many nations ill prepared to mitigate the impact on its citizens.

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Coronavirus economic impact, global threats and the CPC leadership race

Sun, 08 Mar 2020 15:00:00 -0000

This week we take a look at how the Canadian economy is being impacted by the coronavirus...what tools is the government prepared to use to help workers and businesses if the outbreak continues? We then take a look at critical global threats...are we doing enough to mitigate those threats and which nations are at the top of that threat list? Plus the Conservative Party of Canada will be choosing a new leader in June, we'll talk to one of the eight candidates seeking the top party job.

Guests: Bill Morneau, Finance Minister; Brian DePratto, Senior Economist TD Bank; Frederick Kagan, American Enterprise Institute Critical Threats Project; Rudy Husny, Conservative Leadership Candidate

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Coronavirus Journey

Fri, 06 Mar 2020 22:19:27 -0000

Today we talk to author and journalist Ethan Lou who recently traveled back to China to visit family and found himself in the centre of the coronavirus outbreak.

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Blockades, Indigenous rights and containing the coronavirus

Sun, 01 Mar 2020 16:30:00 -0000

In this edition we look at how the Indigenous blockades have affected Canada and what are some possible paths forward to get over this impasse, plus as more countries report an outbreak of the coronavirus, are nations doing enough to contain the virus and is it time to delay vacations?

Guests: Chrystia Freeland, Deputy Prime Minister; Dr Marcos Espinal, Pan American Health Organization; Grand Chief Joe Norton, Mohawk Council of Kahnawake

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China...should we rethink getting to close to this nation?

Fri, 28 Feb 2020 23:02:48 -0000

Last fall Canadian diplomats warned the government not to get too close to China, why? And did the government listen?

Guest: Charles Burton, MacDonald-Laurier Institute

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Divisions with the Indigenous community and provinces react

Sun, 23 Feb 2020 16:30:00 -0000

In this edition we look at the divide within the indigenous community over B.C. LNG projects and reconciliation. Plus premiers across the country have been pushing for the federal government to end the blockades and get the rail service back up and running.

Guests: Ellis Ross, Former Chief Councillor for Haisla First Nation and B.C. MLA for Skeena; Scott Moe, Saskatchewan Premier

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Wet’suwet’en Conflict and Canada-US Relations

Sun, 16 Feb 2020 16:18:31 -0000

In this episode we speak to Indigenous Services Minister Marc Miller to get an update on his meetings with the Mohawk Nation. Former attorney general and BC regional chief of the BC Assembly of First Nations Jody Wilson-Raybould is on the show with her take on the Wet’suwet’en Nation conflict with Coastal GasLink and what the country needs to do to move forward. Plus, we hear from Washington’s top diplomat in Ottawa about key priorities: CUSMA, Huawei and defence spending.

Guests: Marc Miller, Indigenous Services Minister; Jody Wilson-Raybould, former attorney general; Richard Mills, U.S. Chargé d'Affaires for Canada

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‘We have yet to see any concrete steps toward de-nuclearization’ from North Korea: foreign policy expert

Thu, 13 Feb 2020 12:00:00 -0000

The Korean peninsula has been defined by a standoff for the last 70 years. Japanese foreign policy expert Professor Junya Nishino joins Mercedes Stephenson to explain what’s going on in the region now.

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Coronavirus outbreak: evacuating Canadians, relations with China and the global economic impact

Sun, 09 Feb 2020 16:00:00 -0000

In this episode we ask both the current foreign affairs minister, and a former one about Canada’s response to the coronavirus outbreak in China, and the handling of other key international files. We also ask a high-profile Conservative if he’s planning to join the race to lead the party. Plus, we look at what the long-term global economic impact of the coronavirus could be.

Guests: François-Philippe Champagne, Foreign Affairs Minister; John Baird, Former Foreign Affairs Minister; Perrin Beatty, Canadian Chamber of Commerce President & CEO

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Metro Vancouver’s transit ridership growth is significantly outpacing other Canadian cities. How is it keeping up?

Wed, 05 Feb 2020 21:49:00 -0000

Vancouver Mayor Kennedy Stewart and Langley Mayor Jack Froese join Mercedes Stephenson to explain why the region is experiencing a boom in transit use – and why they’re asking the federal government to make a federal transit infrastructure fund permanent.

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Conoravirus outbreak, Huawei and oilsands.

Sun, 02 Feb 2020 16:30:00 -0000

In this episode we look at how the government is handling the conoravirus outbreak, then we talk to two MPs on the Canada China committee about Huawei and the relationship between our two nations. And finally we take a look at Alberta's push for the federal government to green light the Teck Frontier Oil sands project.

Guests: Patty Hajdu, Health Minister; Rob Oliphant, Parliamentary Secretary to the Minister of Foreign Affairs; Dan Albas, Conservative-B.C.; Jason Nixon, Alberta's Environment and Parks Minister

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Calling on Canada to do more for human rights

Fri, 24 Jan 2020 14:00:00 -0000

THE INTERNATIONAL COURT OF JUSTICE HAS RULED MYANMAR MUST PROTECT ROHINGYA MUSLIMS WITHIN ITS BORDERS FROM VIOLENCE… AND PRESERVE EVIDENCE OF POSSIBLE GENOCIDE.

THE U-N’S TOP COURT RULING COMES AS HUNDREDS OF THOUSANDS OF ROHINGYA WAIT FOR HELP… LIVING IN REFUGEE CAMPS IN NEIGHBOURING BANGLADESH.

MYANMAR’S LEADER AUNG SAN SUU KYI HAS DEFENDED THE COUNTRY AGAINST THE CHARGES OF GENOCIDE. IS THERE A ROLE FOR CANADA TO PLAY?

GUEST: FAREED KHAN, ROHINGYA HUMAN RIGHTS NETWORK

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Cleaning up space junk

Fri, 17 Jan 2020 12:00:00 -0000

Space is getting messy. How do you clean it up? There are tens of thousands of pieces of hazardous space debris in orbit. And countries are looking at different technologies to clean it up – to prevent a real life ‘Gravity’-like situation.

Guest: Michel Doyon, Deputy Director of Space at Global Affairs Canada

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Seeking answers in Iran and political accountability for the Flight 752 tragedy

Sun, 12 Jan 2020 16:30:00 -0000

In this episode, the Canadian government says it is demanding answers on what happened to Flight 752 in Iran. Foreign Affairs Minister François-Philippe Champagne updates us on the progress as consular official prepare to head to Iran. Then David Frum of the Atlantic on how to apportion the blame for this tragedy. And Conservative Foreign Affairs critic Erin O’Toole on holding Iran to account.

Guests: Foreign Affairs Minister François-Philippe Champagne, The Atlantic’s David Frum and Conservative MP Erin O’Toole

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Diplomacy in the aftermath of the downed Ukrainian flight from Iran

Fri, 10 Jan 2020 21:26:00 -0000

In this podcast we look at the relationship between Canada and Iran and how this may impact the investigation into the downed Ukrainian plane earlier this week carrying 63 Canadians.

Guest: Costanza Musa; University of Ottawa

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Political strategy, faith, science and bushfires and challenges facing the ICRC

Sun, 05 Jan 2020 16:30:00 -0000

In this episode we look at political strategies for parties in the coming weeks as parliament is set to return late January. Then we talk to a leading climate scientist about her faith, climate change and why bushfires, floods and drought are the new normal. We finish the show with a conversation with the President of the ICRC on challenges facing his global humanitarian NGO.

Guests: Richard Mahoney, Liberal Strategist; Fred DeLorey, Conservative Strategist; Anne McGrath, NDP Strategist; Katherine Hayhoe, Climate Scientist; Peter Mauer, ICRC President

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Iraq Attack: what might happen next, Political expectations and bushfires

Sun, 05 Jan 2020 14:00:00 -0000

In this episode we look at the US killing of an Iranian General in Iraq, what could happen next? Then as parliament is set to return in late January, what might be on the political agenda in Canada? Plus bushfires in Australia, how is climate change affecting the intensity and length of the bushfire season?

Guests: Matthew Fisher, Canadian Global Affairs Institute Fellow; Richard Mahoney, Liberal Strategist; Anne McGrath, NDP Strategist; Fred DeLorey, Conservative Strategist; Katherine Hayhoe, Climate Scientist

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A review of Canadian politics in 2019, why the changing Arctic impacts us all and resolutions from Parliament Hill.

Sun, 29 Dec 2019 16:30:00 -0000

In this week’s episode: From scandals and resignations to inter-governmental drama an election and a new NAFTA, it was an eventful year in Ottawa. Our Global News Ottawa bureau breaks it all down. And it was another year of dramatic changes in Canada’s Arctic. Activist Sheila Watt-Cloutier explains why it should matter to all of us. As the year ends, we leave you inspiring resolutions for 2020 from Parliament Hill.

Guests: Global News’s David Akin, Mike Le Couteur, Abigail Bimman and activist Sheila Watt-Cloutier

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The state of Canada’s economy, combatting suicide amongst Indigenous Canadians and a West Block Christmas tradition.

Sun, 22 Dec 2019 16:30:00 -0000

In this week’s episode: With some Western provinces struggling and the deficit growing, we look at how healthy the Canadian economy is heading into 2020 with Finance Minister Bill Morneau. Senator Patrick Brazeau joins us to discuss a painful subject that hits close to home – suicides amongst Indigenous men and boys. And we continue our annual Christmas tradition with a very parliamentary reading of Rudolph the Red-Nosed Reindeer.

Guests: Finance Minister Bill Morneau, Senator Patrick Brazeau and cast of festive MPs.

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Scottish independence push a threat to British PM Boris Johnson

Fri, 20 Dec 2019 14:00:00 -0000

Today we talk about the result of the election in the UK, what this means for Brexit, domestic politics and Boris Johnson on the world stage.

Guest: Alan Wager, Research Associate at UK in a changing Europe initiative at Kings College, London

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The shock waves from Scheer’s surprise resignation and the future of CUSMA

Sun, 15 Dec 2019 16:30:00 -0000

In this week’s episode: It was a resignation that shocked political insiders and observers. After more than a month of post-election blood-letting for his failures on the campaign, Andrew Scheer decided to step down as Conservative Party leader. How much of his decision was pushed by Global News' revelations he used party funds to pay for his children's private school? And who is eyeing the job next? We'll talk about it all. And then, the new NAFTA is coming back to the House of Commons, but will the Liberals find the support they need? We'll ask Jagmeet Singh how the NDP will vote.

Guests: Conservative MP Michelle Rempel Garner, NDP leader Jagmeet Singh, Globe and Mail Ottawa bureau chief Bob Fife and National Post columnist John Ivison.

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ISIS is still present in Iraq

Fri, 13 Dec 2019 21:57:01 -0000

The former commander of the NATO training mission in Iraq, Maj-Gen. Dany Fortin tells The West Block’s Mercedes Stephenson that ISIS fighters are still present in Iraq, but that there are a number of security operations that are going after the threat the group still poses.

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The road after the Throne Speech, Huawei's plans for Canada and talking Trump at NATO

Sun, 08 Dec 2019 16:30:00 -0000

In this episode: The Throne Speech has been read and debate has started. Will the Liberal government get support for its vision? Then Huawei wants to move its research facility north, but we ask the company why Canadians should trust it when intelligence and security agencies are raising red flags. And our panel of journalists dives into all the drama as the House of Commons returns.

Guests: Government House Leader Pablo Rodriguez, Huawei’s vice-president of corporate affairs Alykhan Velshi, Susan Delacourt of the Toronto Star and Joel-Denis Bellavance of La Presse.

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Global security shared responsibility

Fri, 06 Dec 2019 13:32:56 -0000

Today we talk to a principal advisor to the President of the Kurdistan regional government about ths situation on the ground in Iraq and what his government is asking for from the global community.

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Conservative leadership battle, Canadian unity and government agenda

Sun, 01 Dec 2019 16:30:00 -0000

On this episode we look at the battle within the conservative party over Andrew Scheer's leadership, is it time for him to go? Then we look at what to expect when the premiers from across the country gather in Toronto--is a consensus on some key issues possible? Plus a look at what to expect when the government lays out its agenda in the speech from the throne later this week.

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Climate change and carbon pricing is this the most effective approach?

Fri, 29 Nov 2019 15:22:09 -0000

The Ecofiscal Commission has released its final report and offer three approaches for Canada to meet its climate targets for 2030. Is putting a price on carbon the most effective way to battle climate change?

Guest: Stewart Elgie, Ecofiscal Commission

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China, Hong Kong and international security

Sun, 24 Nov 2019 16:30:00 -0000

In this episode of The West Block we talk to the Chairman of the Senate Foreign Relations Committee about US foreign policy on China and Turkey. We then speak to a political leader from Hong Kong about her message to the rest of the world on what people in Hong Kong are demanding. Plus a look at Canada’s defence spending, are we living up to our agreement to spend 2 percent of our GDP on defence?

Guests: U.S. Senator Jim Risch, Chairman Senate Foreign Relations Committee; Emily Lau, Former Chairperson of the Democratic Party of Hong Kong; Harjit Sajjan, Canada’s Defence Minister

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Turkey and NATO, tensions between Quebec and Alberta plus opposition priorities

Sun, 17 Nov 2019 16:30:00 -0000

In this episode we look at Turkey's incursion into Northern Syria and what this means for their membership within NATO. Then we look at the balance of power the Bloc Quebecois may hold when the House of Commons returns in December. Plus what priorities will the NDP be pushing for the government to act on.

Guests: Kerim Uras, Turkey's Ambassador to Canada; Yves Francois Blanchet, Bloc Quebecois Leader; Jagmeet Singh, NDP Leader

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Bush fires and climate change

Fri, 15 Nov 2019 22:05:36 -0000

Today we go down under to get an update on the bush fires, why are we seeing a longer and longer season? Is there a connection between bush fires and climate change?

Guest: David Bowman;Professor of Pyrogeography and Fire Science
Fire Centre Director, School of Natural Sciences,
The University of Tasmania

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Alienation, frustrations and remembering our veterans

Sun, 10 Nov 2019 16:30:00 -0000

In this show we will take a look at the frustrations people in Alberta are facing which have been increasing since the federal election last month. Then we will talk to a couple of veterans about what issues and concerns they have...what more should the federal government be doing. Plus we will take a look at the ID program to identify soldiers who lost their lives in service.

Guests: Jason Kenney, Alberta Premier; Alannah Gilmore, Veternan; Jeff Depatie, Veteran

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What the resumption of Canadian meat exports to China signals on relations between the two countries

Fri, 08 Nov 2019 14:00:00 -0000

Charles Burton, a former counsellor at the Canadian Embassy in China and now a professor of Chinese politics says Canada needs to stand up to China for its bullying tactics on other exports plus its espionage activities.

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The debate over Andrew Scheer's leadership, the battle in Syria and trade

Sun, 03 Nov 2019 16:30:00 -0000

IS THERE A CIVIL WAR BREWING INSIDE THE CONSERVATIVE PARTY? WE'LL LOOK AT BOTH SIDES OF THE DEBATE OVER CONSERVATIVE PARTY LEADER ANDREW SCHEER AND WHETHER HE SHOULD REMAIN AT THE HELM.

THEN AN UPDATE ON WHAT IS HAPPENING IN SYRIA AND IRAQ, PLUS WILL THE MARCH TOWARDS IMPEACHMENT DERAIL THE RATIFICATION OF THE NEW NAFTA DEAL IN THE U.S.?

GUESTS:

Peter Van Loan, Former Government House Leader; Tom Pentefountas, Quebec Conservative Candidate 2019; Bayan Sami Abdul Rahman, Kurdish Regional Government Representative to Washington, DC; Chris Sands, Johns Hopkins University

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Brexit and elections in the UK, what happens next?

Fri, 01 Nov 2019 13:13:57 -0000

Brexit has been delayed until January 2020 and voters in the UK head to the polls on December 12th, but what happens if there is a minority or majority government? More chaos expected.

Guest: David Jeffery, University of Liverpool

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Election results disappointing says Official Opposition Leader Andrew Scheer

Sun, 27 Oct 2019 15:30:00 -0000

A conversation with Official Opposition Leader Andrew Scheer about his election loss, his refusal to march in pride parades and his support for leadership review when the party gathers in Toronto next spring.

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Election aftermath, minority government and what happens next

Sun, 27 Oct 2019 15:30:00 -0000

Can a social conservative win a national election in Canada? And what is Official Opposition Leader Andrew Scheer doing now to convince party members he should remain at the helm? Prime Minister Justin Trudeau says he will announce his new cabinet on November 20th, how will he reach out to Alberta and Saskatchewan, two western provinces where people are feeling very frustrated?

Guests: Andrew Scheer, Official Opposition Leader; Carla Qualtrough, Public Services and Procurement Minister; Susan Delacourt, Ottawa Bureau Chief Toronto Star; Joel-Denis Bellavance, Ottawa Bureau Chief La Presse

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Orwellian World and the arms trade

Fri, 25 Oct 2019 04:00:00 -0000

A new hip hop band, Ministry of Wok is hoping voters will consider the arms trade race when casting ballots.

Guest: Salman Navqi, Songwriter

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Polls, minority governments and what might happen post election

Sun, 20 Oct 2019 15:30:00 -0000

Polls show Canada is heading for a minority government on election day, will it be a liberal minority or a conservative minority? And if it is a minority government, which party will hold the balance of power? Plus if a party leader does not perform well, will they be able to hold the party together?

Guests: Darrell Bricker, Ipsos Public Affairs CEO; Robert Fife, Globe and Mail Ottawa Bureau Chief; Anne McGrath, NDP Strategist; Richard Mahoney, Liberal Strategist; Fred DeLorey, Conservative Strategist

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Political debates and election campaigns

Fri, 18 Oct 2019 14:18:00 -0000

Do debates change an election campaign? Do they impact elections? And what debate zingers from previous debates still resonate?

Guests: Richard Mahoney, Liberal strategist; Anne McGrath, NDP strategist; Fred DeLorey, Conservative strategist

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The election platform and campaign strategy with the Conservative Party Leader

Sun, 13 Oct 2019 15:30:00 -0000

A conversation with Conservative Party leader Andrew Scheer joins the West Block to discuss his election platform, proposals, cuts and why he thinks Canadians should support him on election day.

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A look at what's at play heading into the final week of the election

Sun, 13 Oct 2019 15:30:00 -0000

We begin the show in Quebec, the threat from the Bloc...will Liberal Leader Justin Trudeau be able to win the seats he needs? Then we talk to one of the federal party leaders about why he waited so late in the campaign to release his party platform. Plus we check in with our party strategists on the party leader debate performances and what each leader needs to do in the final week of campaigning.

Guests: Daniel Beland, McGill University; Matthew Dube, NDP Candidate-Quebec; Genevieve Hinse, Liberal Candidate-Quebec; Andrew Scheer, Conservative Party Leader; Anne McGrath, NDP strategist; Richard Mahoney, Liberal strategist; Fred DeLorey, Conservative strategist

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Health care and the federal election campaign

Fri, 11 Oct 2019 15:30:00 -0000

Health care is top of mind for many Canadians this election campaign. We travel to Canada's east coast to find out why?

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Health care crisis and the election campaign and advice for party leaders

Sun, 06 Oct 2019 15:30:00 -0000

In this episode we take a look at the health care crisis, particularly in Atlantic Canada...what this means for patients and how it is affecting the election campaign. Then we talk to three first time federal electoral candidates about what they are hearing when they go door to door. And our weekly strategy panel talk about the war room successes and what to expect next week on the election campaign.

Guests: Laurel Collins, NDP Candidate, BC; Tom Dingwall, Conservative Candidate, Ontario; Tamara Taggart, Liberal Candidate, BC; Anne McGrath, NDP strategist; Richard Mahoney, Liberal strategist; Fred DeLorey Conservative strategist

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Students on the election campaign

Fri, 04 Oct 2019 15:10:00 -0000

We talk to students from the University of Victoria to find out what issue is most pressing on their campus.

Guests: Karina Dhillon, Liberal representative; Isabella Lee, NDP representative; Andrew Rose, Green party representative

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Jagmeet Singh, why does he want to be PM? Highs, lows and lighter moments on the campaign trail.

Sun, 29 Sep 2019 15:30:00 -0000

This week we sit down with NDP Leader Jagmeet Singh to find out why he wants to be prime minister and go through some of his campaign promises. Then we take a look at the highs and lows on the campaign trail and what lies ahead next week. And then a quick look at some of the lighter moments on the campaign trail.

Guests: Jagmeet Singh, NDP Leader; Anne McGrath, NDP strategist; Richard Mahoney, Liberal strategist; Fred DeLorey, Conservative strategist

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NDP Leader Jagmeet Singh campaign promises and who gets a veto over development

Sat, 28 Sep 2019 21:18:11 -0000

A conversation with NDP Leader Jagmeet Singh, why does he want to be prime minister? Pipelines, renewable energy and costing out his campaign promises.

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The federal electoral battle in British Columbia

Fri, 27 Sep 2019 15:45:00 -0000

With the federal election set for October 21st in Canada, the next government may be decided by who wins in British Columbia. What's at stake and what issues are resonating particularly in the lower mainland on Vancouver Island:

Guests: Brad Vis-B.C. Conservative candidate; John Kidder-B.C. Green candidate; Svend Robinson-B.C. NDP candidate; Terry Beech-Liberal candidate; Sonia Theroux, Leadnow

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Justin Trudeau's blackface controversy, reaction and political fallout

Sun, 22 Sep 2019 15:30:00 -0000

In this episode we look at the political fallout from the images of Justin Trudeau in blackface brownface over 18 years ago. Is his apology enough? How does this affect the election campaign and will it be the beginning of a conversation about racism in Canada?

Guests: Elizabeth May, Green Party Leader; Sarbjit Kour, Liberal strategist; Anne McGrath, NDP strategist; Fred DeLorey, Conservative strategist; Robin Gill, Global National Weekend Anchor; Terry Teegee, Regional Chief, BC Assembly of First Nations; Savannah Sutherland, UBC student; Sydney Henry, UBC student

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Racism, politics and the climate emergency

Sat, 21 Sep 2019 23:09:00 -0000

A conversation with Green Party leader Elizabeth May...her thoughts on the images of Justin Trudeau in blackface brownface, what she will do if the election results are for a minority government and what she says about possible changes to NATO.

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Election strategy and implications of a possible intelligence breach

Sun, 15 Sep 2019 15:30:00 -0000

In this episode we take a look at the latest twists and turns in the federal election plus Global news has exclusive new details on the charges against an RCMP intelligence officials which may have serious implications for Canada's intelligence community.

Guests: NDP strategist Anne McGrath; Liberal strategist Richard Mahoney; Conservative strategist Fred DeLorey; National security expert Stephanie Carvin; Toronto Star Bureau Chief Susan Delacourt; La Presse Bureau Chief Joel-Denis Bellavance

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Election battleground: Toronto and the area surrounding Canada's biggest city

Thu, 12 Sep 2019 15:35:34 -0000

The West Block visits a riding just outside Toronto where Canada’s two largest parties are hoping for a win to form the next federal government on October 21st

Guests: Todd McCarthy, Conservative candidate-Whitby, Ontario; Ryan Turnbull, Liberal candidate-Whitby,Ontario; Peter Graefe, McMaster University

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Election slogans, strategy and what to expect leading up to October 21st

Sun, 08 Sep 2019 15:30:00 -0000

In this edition we look at the upcoming federal election campaign....what are the strategies, slogans and issues going into the October election. We will also preview the Manitoba election where voters will decide on Tuesday September 10th who will lead that province.

Guests: Darrell Bricker, Ipsos CEO; Anne McGrath, NDP strategist; Fred DeLorey, Conservative strategist; Richard Mahoney, Liberal strategist; David Akin, Global News Chief Political Correspondent; Curtis Brown, Probe Research

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Climate change: benefits, costs and political party report cards

Sun, 01 Sep 2019 15:30:00 -0000

A former federal finance minister says Canada will benefit economically from climate change and its time to stop stoking fear to our children with a climate crisis. Is he correct? If not, what are the costs? And as we head into an election, we'll rate the environmental policies of the liberals, conservatives, ndp and greens.

Guests: Joe Oliver, Former Federal Finance Minister; Kai Chan, University of British Columbia Environment Professor; Michael Bernstein, Canadians for Clean Prosperity Executive Director

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China: protests and detentions, ISIS foreign fighters and scared on campus

Sun, 25 Aug 2019 15:30:00 -0000

In this edition of The West Block we take a look at what the global community can do with regards to China...Canada tells local employees at the consulate in Hong Kong they can no longer travel to China on official business. The U.S. is pushing its allies to bring home their citizens who have fought for ISIS, why? And students across Canada are being threatened if they speak out against China, who is targeting these students on campus?

Guests: Morgan Ortagus, U.S. State Department Spokesperson; Susan le Jeune d'Allegeershecque, British High Commissioner, Chemi Lhamo, University of Toronto Scarborough Student Union President

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Ethics, RCMP, polls and "Sorry", not sorry

Mon, 19 Aug 2019 13:55:46 -0000

In this episode we focus on the fallout from the SNC-Lavalin affair and the findings of the ethics commissioner against the prime minister. Will this hurt his government at the polls in October? And why can't he say he's sorry?

Guests: Jody Wilson-Raybould, former Attorney General; David Coletto, Abacus Data; Shachi Kurl, Angus Reid Institute; Barry McLoughlin, McLoughlin Media

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Ethics, RCMP, polls and "Sorry", not sorry

Sun, 18 Aug 2019 15:30:00 -0000

Guests: Jody Wilson-Raybould, former Attorney General; David Coletto, Abacus Data; Shachi Kurl, Angus Reid Institute; Barry McLoughlin, McLoughlin Media

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Why are more asylum seekers crossing into Canada from the U.S.?

Sun, 11 Aug 2019 15:30:00 -0000

In this episode we look at why more asylum seekers are crossing into Canada at irregular border crossings? Is the new Trump administration policies and clamp down at the southern border affecting the numbers coming to Canada? And do the customs and border agents have enough resources to do their job?

Guests: Jean-Pierre Fortin, National President Customs and Immigration Union; Bill Blair, Minister for Border Security and Protection and Organized Crime Reduction; Todd Smith, Ontario Social Services Minister

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Climate and Canada's north, the unofficial campaign and badminton with NDP MP Don Davies

Sun, 04 Aug 2019 15:30:00 -0000

With climate change threatening the North as we know it, the government moves to protect massive expanses of the Arctic sea and promises millions of dollars in infrastructure. But is it enough? Then we'll unpack the politics of campaign prep from war chests to talking points. And we talk drop shots and the drop of the writ over a badminton match with NDP MP Don Davies.

Guests: Nunavut Senator Dennis Patterson, Toronto Star Ottawa Bureau Chief Susan Delacourt, Jordan Press of The Canadian Press and NDP MP Don Davies.

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National security concerns, bracing for Boris' Brexit and a hobby that takes the cake

Sat, 27 Jul 2019 15:30:00 -0000

In this episode of The West Block, Five Eyes allies meet in London this week to discuss national security and intelligence issues. We'll ask Public Safety Minister Ralph Goodale what's on the agenda. Then the U.K. has a new prime minister. What impact will Boris Johnson have across the pond, and here at home? Finally, when it comes to Hill Hobbies, Liberal MP Mona Fortier takes the cake.

Guests: Public Safety Minister Ralph Goodale, Former Deputy Executive of BBC News Richard Ayre and Liberal MP Mona Fortier.

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Canada's electoral landscape, searching for truth in Trump's Washington and Green cooking

Tue, 23 Jul 2019 15:30:00 -0000

In this episode of The West Block, we scope out the shape of the electoral landscape exactly three months before Canadians go to the polls. Then we talk to CNN White House Correspondent Jim Acosta about fake news, truth and how Donald Trump is changing America. And we get a flavour for Green Party Leader Elizabeth May's Hill Hobby.

Guests: Wilfrid Laurier University's Barry Kay, CNN White House Correspondent Jim Acosta and Green Party Leader Elizabeth May

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Privacy concerns, summertime politics and lakeside hill hobbies

Sun, 14 Jul 2019 15:30:00 -0000

In this episode of The West Block we talk to the chair of the public safety and national security committee about the Desjardins data breach which affects nearly three million Canadians and many businesses across the country. Then we talk to two seasoned Hill watchers about politics away from Ottawa as candidates and party leaders prepare for the upcoming election. Plus another in our hill hobbies series...this week we spend time on the lake with two conservative mps to find out why this area means so much to them.

Guests: John McKay, Liberal-Ontario; Susan Delacourt, Toronto Star; David Akin, Global News Chief Political Correspondent; Scot Davidson, Conservative-Ontario; Alex Nuttall, Conservative-Ontario

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Premiers expectations, political reflections and key notes off the hill

Sun, 07 Jul 2019 15:30:00 -0000

In this episode we take a look at what may be on the agenda heading into the last premier's meeting before the federal election. Then we talk to three MPs who have decided not to seek re-election in October. And then we go off the hill to meet up with one MP to find out why music strikes a key for this politician.

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Pipelines and civil disobedience, Ukraine and Russia, plus Highland dancing as a Hill Hobby

Sun, 30 Jun 2019 15:30:00 -0000

In this episode of The West Block we take a look at the Trans Mountain expansion project with an insider from TMX. Then what does Ukraine need/want from Canada and the international community when it comes to Russia? And another in our occasional Hill Hobbies....this time we throw on a pair of ghillies and take a turn.

Guests: Ian Anderson, President & CEO Trans Mountain Corp.; Ambassador Andriy Shevchenko, Ukraine Ambassador to Canada; Kirsty Duncan, Minister of Science and Sport

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Energy and the environment, Trump and Trudeau

Sun, 23 Jun 2019 15:30:00 -0000

A national climate emergency, pipeline approval-a new environmental plan and a long awaited meeting between President Trump and Prime Minister Trudeau on China and trade.

Guests: Andrew Scheer, Conservative Party Leader; Andrew Weaver, B.C. Green Party Leader; Susan Delacourt, Ottawa Bureau Chief Toronto Star, David Akin, Chief Political Correspondent Global News

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Not the weather and climate our grandparents knew

Fri, 21 Jun 2019 22:20:27 -0000

Our weather is changing...we are seeing more fires, more drought more frequently. Yes the planet is warming up, but are we adapting enough to those changes? What can we do to help mitigate disasters that come with the changing weather?

Guest: David Phillips, Senior Climatologist with Environment Canada

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Trans Mountain pipeline project & environment, USMCA plus fake news

Sun, 16 Jun 2019 15:30:00 -0000

In this episode of The West Block we look at pipelines in Canada and the approval process to get these energy project built. How will the government's proposed legislation affect this process? Plus when Canada's Prime Minister heads to Washington to meet with President Trump trade and China will be top of the agenda. What does Canada want from the White House? And fake news, 86 respondents in an international poll admit to have fallen for fake news. Why?

Guests: Catherine McKenna, Environment and Climate Change Minister; Goldy Hyder, CEO & President of the Business Council of Canada; Sasha Havlicek, CEO of the Institute for Strategic Dialogue

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Venezuela and what happens if there is no change of government?

Fri, 14 Jun 2019 21:41:23 -0000

What happens if President Maduro does not soon leave office in Venezuela?

We'll talk to a former mayor of that country who is now living in exile in Washington.

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Genocide, environmental assessments and Huawei

Sun, 09 Jun 2019 15:30:00 -0000

In this episode of The West Block we look at the report of Missing Murdered Indigenous Women and Girls and discuss their findings of genocide. Then we talk to three MPs about Bill C69 and the environmental assessment process and what this means for the energy sector. And we finish with a discussion on Huawei and what a deal with this company for Canada's 5G network could mean for relations with our southern neighbour.

Guests: Carolyn Bennett, Minister of Crown Indigenous Relations; Sean Fraser, Parliamentary Secretary to the Minister of the Environment; BC NDP MP Rachel Blaney; Ontario Conservative MP John Brassard; James Lewis, Center for Strategic and International Studies

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The future of CUSMA, fighting for power in Manitoba and cracking down on corruption.

Sun, 02 Jun 2019 15:30:00 -0000

In this episode will CUSMA ever be ratified? Unifor's Jerry Dias has his doubts. Plus there's a power struggle between Ottawa and Manitoba. Premier Brian Pallister explains. And we'll talk Brexit, corruption and politics with U.K. Minister of State for Northern Ireland John Penrose.

Guests: National President of Unifor Jerry Dias, Manitoba Premier Brian Pallister and U.K. Minister of State for Northern Ireland John Penrose.

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Can we really protect privacy with social media?

Fri, 31 May 2019 11:57:09 -0000

What more can be done to protect the privacy of our citizens against tech giants? Is it too late to act?

Guest: Steven Hill, author and journalist who has written extensively on this topic

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Veterans speak out, will congress ratify USMCA and environmental action

Fri, 24 May 2019 23:26:57 -0000

In this episode of The West Block we talk to two veterans to get their reaction to the unveiling of a memorial in Ottawa where veterans and family members were not invited. Plus given the war of words between House Speaker Nancy Pelosi and President Trump, will this affect the ratification of the new NAFTA? And then how will the federal government respond when Alberta repeals the carbon tax?

Guests: Captain (ret'd) Sean Bruyea, veterans advocate; Warrant Officer (ret'd) Ed Storey; Bruce Heyman, Former U.S. Ambassador to Canada; Sean Fraser, Parliamentary Secretary to the Minister of the Environment

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Artificial Intelligence its impact on the economy and business

Fri, 24 May 2019 12:10:53 -0000

In this podcast we talk about artificial intelligence...getting businesses up to speed, adapting with AI and why this is so important for businesses moving forward and for the economy.

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Tariffs, a minority government and a former political prisoner speaks out

Sun, 19 May 2019 15:30:00 -0000

Good news for Canada and the U.S. on Friday as Trump lifts steel and aluminum tariffs...will this mean a ratification of the new NAFTA is just around the corner? Then a new minority government in Newfoundland and Labrador, did the scandals affecting the federal liberal party hurt their provincial counterpart? And we'll talk to a former political prisoner in China, what was his experience like?

Guests: Chrystia Freeland, Minister of Foreign Affairs; Dwight Ball, Premier-designate Newfoundland and Labrador; Kevin Garratt, Former Political Prisoner

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Apologies, Greens and Canada-China relations

Sun, 12 May 2019 15:30:00 -0000

Will the government apologize to Vice Admiral Mark Norman? Should they? And will people continue to vote for Greens? Plus Canada China relations, what role is the China-U.S. trade war playing in this relationship?

Guests: Carla Qualtrough, Minister of Public Service and Procurement; Elizabeth May, Green Party Leader; Paul Evans, China Expert

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White Wednesdays and pushing for women's rights in Iran

Fri, 10 May 2019 14:34:56 -0000

Since the revolution in Iran forty years ago, women have been forced to veil and have been restricted in activities outside the home. But many women inside and outside of Iran have had enough--how are they pushing back?

Guest: Masih Alinejad, Iranian journalist and author

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Oil, pipelines and division

Sun, 05 May 2019 15:30:00 -0000

In this edition of The West Block we travel out west to Alberta to see first hand how much this province relies on the oil industry. Why do Albertans feel alienated and is the talk of separating from the rest of Canada resonating? And why is the Indigenous community so divides over the potential expansion of the Trans Mountain pipeline project which would take oil from Alberta to the west coast of British Columbia.

Guests:Michelle Narang, Rocky Mountain House Councillor; Jackie Forrest, ARC Energy Institute; Richard Masson, University of Calgary; Jason Kenney, Alberta Premier; Barry Cooper, University of Calgary; Chief Judy Wilson, Union of B.C. Chiefs; Stephen Buffalo, Indian Resource Council

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With extreme weather on the rise, it’s time to weather proof communities: climatologist

Fri, 03 May 2019 13:00:00 -0000

Floods in Canada. Bush fires in Australia. Tornadoes in the United States. Environment Canada’s senior climatologist David Phillips on extreme weather as the new normal and what should government’s do about?

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The fallout of the Alberta election, the future of Trans Mountain and NDP election readiness

Sat, 20 Apr 2019 15:30:00 -0000

In this episode we talk to Transport Minister Marc Garneau about federal-provincial relations in the wake of the Alberta election. NDP leader Jagmeet Singh joins us and talks about whether the party is ready for this year's election. And we go trapshooting with Conservative MP Michael Barrett in a new segment called Hill Hobbies.

Guests: Marc Garneau, Transport Minister; Jagmeet Singh, NDP leader; Conservative MP Michael Barrett.

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Why are so many food processing plants leaving Canada for the U.S.?

Thu, 18 Apr 2019 02:00:00 -0000

BUSINESS INVESTMENT IN CANADA IS VANISHING BECAUSE OF TAXES AND REGULATIONS. AND ONE OF THOSE AREAS WHERE INVESTMENT IS DOWN IS IN FOOD PRODUCTION. RECENTLY MAPLE LEAF FOODS, THE COUNTRIES LARGEST PORK PROCESSOR ANNOUNCED IT WAS BUILDING ITS NEW MEATLESS FOOD PROCESSING PLANT IN INDIANA. A LOSS OF ABOUT FIVE HUNDRED JOBS AND MILLIONS MORE IN LOST REVENUE. WHAT DO THESE LOSSES MEAN FOR CANADA’S FOOD INDUSTRY?

GUEST: SYLVAIN CHARLEBOIS, PROFESSOR OF FOOD DISTRIBUTION AND POLICY AT DALHOUSIE UNIVERSITY.

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Asylum shopping, cannabis and the Alberta election

Sat, 13 Apr 2019 15:59:00 -0000

In this episode we talk about proposed changes that would impact asylum shopping, then why does legal cannabis cost more than what can be purchased on the black market? And the Alberta election, the campaign and what to expect on Tuesday.

Guests: Bill Blair, Minister of Border Security and Organized Crime Reduction; Jason Kenney, United Conservative Party Leader, Jen Gerson, Freelance Journalist; Jared Wesley, Professor University of Alberta.

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What does a Brexit delay mean?

Fri, 12 Apr 2019 12:47:16 -0000

Will a delay until the end of October help get a deal for Brexit?

Guest: Kenneth Armstrong, Professor of European Law at the University of Cambridge

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Jody Wilson-Raybould tells her story

Sun, 07 Apr 2019 15:30:00 -0000

Former Attorney General Jody Wilson-Raybould tells her story on alleged political interference in the SNC-Lavalin affair that led her to quit cabinet and the Prime Minister to kick her and fellow cabinet minister Jane Philpott out of the liberal caucus.

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Sharing stories easing pain

Thu, 04 Apr 2019 22:01:59 -0000

A new tool to help people with physical, mental and emotional issues.

Guest: Silken Laumann, Olympian

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SNC-Lavalin affair, Canola and Indigenous Relations

Sun, 31 Mar 2019 15:30:00 -0000

This week we take a look at the latest audio and written submissions to the Justice Committee by former Attorney General Jody Wilson Raybould. Plus the latest in the trade dispute between Canada and China and the tense relations between the government and Indigenous Peoples.

Guest: Randy Boissonnault, Liberal MP; Bob Fife, The Globe and Mail; David Akin, Global News; Grand Chief Stewart Phillip, Union of B.C. Chiefs

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Should Canada ratify USMCA with tariffs still in place?

Sat, 30 Mar 2019 19:53:58 -0000

Canadian officials are warning their U.S. counterparts that the new NAFTA deal may not be ratified in Canada as long as the steel and aluminum tariffs remain in place. Does the steel union support this?

Guest: Ken Neumann, National Director United Steel Workers of Canada

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Should Artificial Intelligence be regulated?

Thu, 28 Mar 2019 14:00:00 -0000

Artificial Intelligence is changing our lives...is there a role for government to play and should policy makers regulate this cutting edge technology?

Guest: Kenneth Cukier, Senior Editor The Economist

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The ongoing SNC-Lavalin affair and Budget 2019

Sun, 24 Mar 2019 15:30:00 -0000

More bombshells this week with the ongoing SNC-Lavalin affair...this in the midst of the government delivering its last federal budget before the fall election. We'll hear from the government and the opposition on what may happen next.

Guests: Karina Gould, Minister of Democratic Institutions; Lisa Raitt, Conservative; Daniel Blaikie, NDP; Bill Morneau, Federal Finance Minister

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Ukraine Elections and Russia

Fri, 22 Mar 2019 22:54:34 -0000

Why are western governments monitoring the upcoming Ukraine elections so closely?

Guest: Ihor Michalchyshyn, CEO and Executive Director of the Ukranian Canadian Congress

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Ukraine Elections and what role Russia may play

Fri, 22 Mar 2019 21:29:11 -0000

Why is the West monitoring the Ukraine elections at the end of the month? Is Russia interfering?

Guest: Ihoh Michalchyshyn, CEO and Executive Director of the Ukrainian Canadian Congress

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Ukraine elections and what role Russia may play

Fri, 22 Mar 2019 21:23:01 -0000

Ukrainians go to the polls at the end of the month. There are signs that Russia is behind a campaign of fake news to influence the outcome. Why are western nations watching this election so closely?

Guest: Ihor Michalchyshyn, CEO and Executive Director of the Ukrainian Canadian Congress

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SNC-Lavalin, the 2019 budget and a new face on New Brunswick's political scene

Sun, 17 Mar 2019 15:30:00 -0000

On this week's show: Opposition MPs are trying to keep the SNC-Lavalin controversy in the spotlight, but the Liberals are hoping the budget will change the channel. We'll hear from Liberal advisor and Canada's Ambassador to the United States David MacNaughton on SNC-Lavalin, as well as USMCA and steel tariffs. Then a former ambassador has his sights on a new job. We'll ask Kevin Vickers why he wants to lead New Brunswick's Liberal party. Plus we'll unpack the politics of the upcoming budget.

Guests: Canada's Ambassador to the United States David MacNaughton, New Brunswick Liberal leadership candidate Kevin Vickers, Global News Chief Political Correspondent David Akin and Bloomberg's Josh Wingrove.

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The new oil industry

Fri, 15 Mar 2019 11:39:26 -0000

THE U.S. IS EXPECTED TO BECOME THE WORLD’S TOP OIL EXPORTER IN THE NEXT FIVE YEARS. SO WHAT DOES THIS MEAN FOR THE GLOBAL OIL INDUSTRY?

Guest: Charles Mason, HA True Chair in Oil and Gas Economics, and Associate Dean in the College of Business, at the University of Wyoming

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No apology...erosion of trust...and managing a political crisis

Mon, 11 Mar 2019 03:30:33 -0000

A second cabinet minister resigns, the Prime Minister's former Principal Secretary testifies before the Justice Committee...the opposition wants the former Attorney General to come back to the committee and testify again. Lots on the show this week.

Guests: Karina Gould, Minister of Democratic Institutions; Pierre-Poilievre, Conservative-Ontario; Peter Julien, NDP-British Columbia; Mike Van Soelen, Navigator Limited

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Explosive testimony and a government in crisis

Sun, 03 Mar 2019 16:30:12 -0000

EXPLOSIVE TESTIMONY, CALLS FOR THE PRIME MINISTER TO STEP DOWN, AND A CABINET SHUFFLE ...ALL AS MPs BEGIN A TWO WEEK BREAK AWAY FROM PARLIAMENT HILL.FORMER ATTORNEY GENERAL JODY WILSON-RAYBOULD TOLD THE JUSTICE COMMITTEE LAST WEEK SHE EXPERIENCED A CONSISTENT AND SUSTAINED EFFORT BY THE MOST POWERFUL PEOPLE WITHIN GOVERNMENT INCLUDING THE PRIME MINISTER TO POLITICALLY INTERFERE IN HER DECISION ON THE CRIMINAL PROSECUTION OF THE QUEBEC BASED COMPANY SNC-LAVALIN. WE'LL HEAR VARIOUS PERSPECTIVES ON A CONTROVERSY THAT HAS PUT THE GOVERNMENT IN CRISIS.

Guests: David Lametti, Justice Minister; Candice Bergen, Conservative; Daniel Blaikie, NDP; Susan Delacourt, Toronto Star Bureau Chief; Joel-Denis Bellavance, La Presse Bureau Chief

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President Trump's walkout on North Korea talks may actually help

Thu, 28 Feb 2019 14:35:00 -0000

Long awaited talks between President Trump and North Korean leader Kim Jong-Un collapsed on Thursday when the U.S. refused to lift sanctions to appease North Korea. What happens now and where does this leave relations between these two nations?

Guest: Troy Stangarone, Senior Director of Congressional Affairs and Trade at the Korea Institute

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Foreign ISIS fighters and their families

Fri, 22 Feb 2019 14:24:35 -0000

Should nations take back their citizens if they fought for ISIS? And what about the families of these foreign fighters? And does de-radicalization work?

Guest:

MUBIN SHAIKH, A FORMER SECURITY INTELLIGENCE AND COUNTER TERRORISM OPERATIVE WITH CISIS AND RCMP UNDERCOVER OPERATIVE AND AN EXPERT ON COUNTERING VIOLENT EXTREMISM.

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The evolution of the SNC-Lavalin saga and taking the carbon tax to court

Sun, 17 Feb 2019 16:30:07 -0000

The plot thickens in the SNC-Lavalin affair. Jody Wilson-Raybould resigns from Cabinet, a move Prime Minister Justin Trudeau called surprising. He contends the government did nothing wrong, nor did Wilson-Raybould ever come to him to say otherwise. She's not talking yet, so what happened and why is SNC-Lavalin so important? We'll search for answers. And we'll also talk the law and carbon tax as Saskatchewan Premier Scott Moe waits for a court to decide whether Ottawa has the constitutional power to price pollution.

Guests: Innovation, Science and Economic Development Minister Navdeep Bains, Conservative Leader Andrew Scheer and Saskatchewan Premier Scott Moe.

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Looking for answers in the SNC-Lavalin affair

Thu, 14 Feb 2019 16:21:23 -0000

The Liberal-dominated justice committee voted to investigate the SNC-Lavalin affair after sparks flew at an emergency meeting on Parliament Hill. The promised probe falls short of what the opposition wanted. And there are questions about just how much light a group of partisan politicians can shed on what happened between the Prime Minister's Office and the former attorney general. We're joined by Democracy Watch's Duff Conacher to unpack what is at stake for democracy.

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Political interference allegations, the future of elections in Venezuela and will Bill C-69 survive the Senate

Mon, 11 Feb 2019 04:00:00 -0000

A political bombshell rocks Ottawa after allegations the Prime Minister's Office pressured former Justice Minister Jody Wilson-Raybould to end a criminal prosecution against SNC-Lavalin. The Prime Minister says the allegations are false, but the opposition isn't buying it. Where do we go from here? And then will it be free and fair elections or military intervention in Venezuela? We'll talk to Venezuela's interim ambassador to Canada. Finally, the government's contentious bill to overhaul natural resource project approval in Canada is fighting for its life in the Senate. Will it survive?

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The WWII mission that helped give allies hope in 1943

Fri, 08 Feb 2019 15:00:00 -0000

DAM BUSTERS WAS A MISSION TO DESTROY GERMANY’S HYDRO ELECTRIC DAMS NEARLY SEVENTY SIX YEARS AGO. THIS LEGENDARY MISSION, CODE NAMED OPERATION CHASTISE, IS CREDITED AS HELPING TO CHANGE THE COURSE OF WORLD WAR TWO. THE GOAL OF BOMBING THESE DAMS INSIDE THE THIRD REICH WAS TO DESTROY MASSIVE WATER RESERVOIRS USED FOR POWER TO BUILD GERMANY’S MILITARY. WHAT ROLE DID CANADA PLAY? HOW IMPORTANT WAS THIS MISSION FOR THE ALLIED OFFENSIVE?

GUEST: TED BARRIS, AUTHOR DAM BUSTERS

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Protecting democracy, crisis in Venezuela and preparing workers for the future

Sun, 03 Feb 2019 16:30:00 -0000

What is the government doing to protect a cyber attack in the next federal election? And what about fake news? Plus Canada will host the Lima Group on Monday in Ottawa to discuss the crisis in Venezuela, what can these countries from Central and South America do? And preparing workers for future employment, what one company is saying may be the solution?

Guests: Karina Gould, Minister of Democratic Institutions; Ben Rowswell, Canada's Former Ambassador to Venezuela and President of the Canadian International Council; Sean Hinton, Co-Founder and CEO Skyhive Technologies

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A global call to action

Fri, 01 Feb 2019 15:13:46 -0000

Have we reached a breaking point in fighting diseases like Aids, TB and malaria? What happens if nations around the world do not provide more funds?

Guest: Peter Sands, Executive Director Global Fund

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Can a food guide really change the way a country eats?

Fri, 25 Jan 2019 14:30:00 -0000

Diana Bronson of Food Secure Canada explains why Canada's new food guide is just one ingredient in the recipe for healthy eating.

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Divide within the Indigenous community, cabinet shuffle and Trump's border wall

Sun, 13 Jan 2019 16:30:00 -0000

Protests on both sides of the pipeline debate were held across Canada this week...and that divide also exists within the Indigenous community. How do they suggest moving forward and how is this impacting investment in Canada? We'll also talk to President Trump's former White House communications director about Trumps's demands on a border wall. And, the federal government is set to announce a cabinet shuffle, what does this mean as we approach the election this fall?

Guests: Terry Teegee, AFN B.C. Regional Chief; Goldy Hyder, President of the Business Council of Canada; Anthony Scaramucci, Former White House Communications Director; Susan Delacourt, Toronto Star; Bob Fife, Globe and Mail

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Truckers planning convoy to Ottawa, geopolitical and military concerns for 2019

Sun, 06 Jan 2019 16:30:00 -0000

THIS WEEK, WESTERN ALIENATION HITS THE ROAD NEXT MONTH AS HUNDRED OF TRUCKERS PLAN TO DRIVE THEIR BIG RIGS.... ALL THE WAY FROM ALBERTA TO PARLIAMENT HILL, WHAT MORE CAN ALBERTA DO TO GET THE PIPELINE PROJECT MOVING? THEN WHAT ARE SOME OF THE GEO POLITICAL HOTSPOTS FOR 2019, AND AS THE UNITED STATES PREPARES TO BRING TROOPS HOME FROM THE MIDDLE EAST AND OTHER REGIONS, HOW WILL THIS IMPACT CANADIAN TROOPS SERVING OVERSEAS?

Guests: Jason Kenney, United Conservative Party Leader; Paul Stares, Council on Foreign Relations; Mike Day, Former Special Ops Commander

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A year in review, looking ahead to the federal election and military matters

Sun, 30 Dec 2018 16:30:00 -0000

We begin the show today with a look at some of the big political domestic stories of the year. Then, less than ten months until a federal election...we check in with where each party stands with the electorate and then does Canada's military have the resources it needs to do its job?

Guests: Abigail Bimman,@AbigailBimman; David Akin, @davidakin; Mike Le Couteur, @mikelecouteur; Darrell Bricker, CEO Ipsos Public Affairs, General Jonathan Vance, Chief of the Defence Staff

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A conversation with the Prime Minister

Tue, 25 Dec 2018 16:00:00 -0000

An extended conversation with Canadian Prime Minsiter Justin Trudeau where we discuss the oil crisis, immigration, Canada-China relations, Saudi Arabia and the roll his faith plays in his daily life.

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A Conversation with Prime Minister Justin Trudeau

Tue, 25 Dec 2018 16:00:00 -0000

In this broad ranging end of the year conversation with the Prime Minister, we discuss the oil crisis, immigration, economy, China, Saudi Arabia and his hopes for the year ahead on Parliament Hill.

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A conversation with the PM, a final look at Centre Block and a Christmas story

Sun, 23 Dec 2018 16:30:00 -0000

We sit down with the Prime Minister to talk about the Alberta oil crisis, immigration and Canada-China relations. Then we take a tour of Centre Block on Parliament Hill before it closes for a aten year renovation project. Plus some MPs on the hill join us for a special Christmas story.

Guests: Prime Minister Justin Trudeau; Johanna Mizgala,House of Commons Curator; Geoff Regan,Speaker of the House of Commons; Heather Lank,Parliamentary Librarian; Elizabeth May: Green Party Leader; Jagmeet Singh: NDP Leader; Rosemary Falk: Conservative- Battlefords –Lloydminster;Rodger Cuzner Liberal-Cape Breton-Canso; Anita Vandenbeld: Liberal-Ottawa West-Nepean; John Nater; Conservative- Perth-Wellington; Alaina Lockhart-Liberal- Fundy Royal; Gord Johns; NDP-Courtenay-Alberni; Cathy McLeod; Conservative-Kamloops-Thomspon-Cariboo; Nick Whalen; Liberal- St. John’s East; Cheryl Hardcastle; NDP-Windsor-Tecumseh; Sheila Malcolmson; NDP-Nanaimo-Ladysmith; Larry Miller-Conservative-Bruce-Grey-Owen Sounds; Andrew Scheer-Conservative Party Leader; Prime Minister Justin Trudeau

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What is the biggest challenge for Canada-Indigenous Relations?

Fri, 21 Dec 2018 15:00:00 -0000

In this bonus West Block podcast we take a look at three years in with the federal government's promise to implement all ninety four recommendations from the truth and reconciliation commission report....what are the challenges and did the government promise too much?

Guest: Carolyn Bennett, Minister of Crown-Indigenous Relations and Northern Affairs

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How politicizing the arrest of Meng Wanzhou could hurt U.S. President Donald Trump

Fri, 14 Dec 2018 22:59:08 -0000

U.S. President Donald Trump's politicization of the arrest of Huawei CFO Meng Wanzhou makes things awkward for Canada, but there could also be blowback for the president at home, according to Michael Hirson of the Eurasia Group

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Why do these Indigenous Leaders support shipping oil from Canada?

Fri, 14 Dec 2018 12:00:00 -0000

A number of Indigenous leaders were in Ottawa this week speaking out against Bill C48, a bill to see a moratorium on ships carrying oil from anchoring off the northern British Columbia coast. What do these leaders want and why are they planning to ask the United Nations to help?

Guests: Chief Raymond Morris, National Chiefs Coalition ; Calvin Helin, Eagle Spirit Chiefs Council

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Political drama and east versus west

Sun, 09 Dec 2018 16:30:00 -0000

We begin the show this week with the federal provincial showdown at the First Minister's meeting in Montreal, what is dividing Ottawa from its provincial counterparts? Then we take a look at the RCMP arrest of a Chinese executive with Huawei, what does this mean for relations between China, Canada and the U.S.?

Guests: Dominic LeBlanc, Intergovernmental Affairs Minister; Scott Moe, Saskatchewan Premier; David Mulroney, Canada' s former ambassador to China

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Upheaval on the hill and escalating tensions between Russia and Ukraine

Sun, 02 Dec 2018 16:30:00 -0000

This week we talk to two MPs on the hill about the controversy surrounding a fellow MP plus the recent report outlining the costs for asylym seekers crossing into Canada illegally. We then talk to a former state department official about the escalating tensions between Russia and Ukraine.

Guests: Peter Schiefke, Parliamentary Secretary to the Minister of Border Security and Organized Crime, Michelle Rempel, Conservative Immigration Critic; Stephen Sestanovich, Columbia University; John Ivison, National Post ; Daniel Leblanc, Globe and Mail

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Alberta's oil crisis, fall economic update and freedom of the press

Sun, 25 Nov 2018 16:30:00 -0000

Alberta's Finance Minister says the federal government does not understand the economic crisis his province is facing due to the ailing oil industry. Ottawa says that is not true...we'll get both sides of this story. Plus what are the dangers journalists face in the middle east?

Guests: Bill Morneau, Federal Finance Minister; Joe Ceci, Alberta's Finance Minister, Ayman Mhanna, SK Eyes Centre for Media and Culture

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What will happen in Syria if the ceasefire does not hold?

Fri, 23 Nov 2018 16:00:00 -0000

Hundreds of thousands of Syrians have died since the civil war began over seven years ago and many more have been displaced. What more should the west be doing to help Syrians? Here's your West Block bonus podcast.

Guest: Kenan Rahmani, Syrian Campaign Policy Advisor

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NATO, threats to Ukraine and the U.S. on the world stage

Sun, 18 Nov 2018 16:30:00 -0000

In this edition of The West Block we are in Halifax at the International Security Forum. Is there a division within the NATO alliance? Is NATO doing enough for Ukraine when it comes to the threat they face from Russia? And what about the U.S. does it support this global alliance and where do political leaders there view the U.S. and its role as a global leader?

Guests: Rose Gottemoeller, NATO Deputy Secretary General; Pavlo Krimlin, Ukraine Foreign Minister, Senator Mike Rounds, Republican-South Dakota.

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Security, veterans and a special tribute this Remembrance Day

Sun, 11 Nov 2018 22:30:00 -0000

POLITICAL BOMBSHELL HIT OTTAWA this week WHEN FORMER CABINET MINISTER AND MP TONY CLEMENT DISCLOSED AN EXTORTION ATTEMPT FOR HIS INAPPROPRIATE ONLINE BEHAVRIOUR AND ACTS OF INFEDILITY. CLEMENT SAT ON THE POWERFUL AND SECRETIVE PARLIAMENTARY COMMITTEE THAT OVERSEES NATIONAL SECURITY, SO WAS SECURITY COMPROMISED? THEN WE WILL TALK TO A COUPLE OF VETERANS ABOUT GOVERNMENT SERVICES PLUS CANADA'S ROLE IN THE GREAT WAR.

Guests: Phil Gurski, Security Analyst; Sean Bruyea, Air Force Intelligence Ret'd; Paul Franklin, MCpl Ret'd

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Addressing small business concerns, ISIS fighters returning home and reforming the WTO

Sun, 28 Oct 2018 15:30:00 -0000

This week on The West Block we look at some of the concerns of the business community and whether or not Canada could handle a recession. Then we talk about the motion in the house of commons that received bi-partisan support on consequences for returning ISIS fighters. And trade ministers from around the world met in Ottawa last week to discuss WTO reforms, US and China were not invited, is there a way forward for this international trade organization?

Guests: Bill Morneau, Finance Minister; Karen McCrimmon, Parliamentary Secretary to the Public Safety Minister; David Parker, New Zealand Minister of Trade and Economic Growth

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Trade diversification, sanctions versus human rights and lessons learned for cannabis.

Sun, 21 Oct 2018 15:30:00 -0000

Later this week Canada will host trade minister from twelve countries but the US is not invited, how will this affect our trade relations south of the border? Then a Saudi journalists death in Turkey appears is causing outrage around the world, should human rights outweigh business? And nearly six years ago cannabis was legalized in Colorado. What lessons have they learned after it rolled out?
Guests: Jim Carr, International Trade Diversification Minister; Dennis Horak, Canada's Former Ambassador to Saudi Arabia; Lewis Koski, Colorado's Former Director of Marijuana Enforcement Division

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Supreme Court battle may impact outcome of U.S. mid term elections

Wed, 17 Oct 2018 17:34:51 -0000

Bonus mid-week West Block podcast:

In less than a month voters in the U.S. head to the polls in what is being called the most important midterm election in our lifetime. President Trump is not on the ballot but is this election a referendum on his first two years in office? And will there be a blue wave or will we have a divided congress on November 7th?

Guest: Christopher Sands, Director of the Center for Canadian Studies at Johns Hopkins University in Washington, D.C.

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A conversation with Rt Hon Stephen Harper: globalism and populism

Sun, 14 Oct 2018 15:30:00 -0000

Former conservative prime minister Stephen Harper sits down with Mercedes Stephenson in New York City where he launched his latest book, Right Here Right Now-a look at globalism and how the populist movement has arisen from this.

Guest: Rt. Hon. Stephen Harper

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Will Iran start the world's first nuclear war?

Wed, 10 Oct 2018 17:28:00 -0000

The United States has officially pulled out of the 1955 Treaty of Amity with Iran. It's the latest move in the deterioration in relations between the two countries. Will international dispute lead to nuclear war? And can Iran be trusted?

Guest: Joseph Cirincione, President of Ploughshares Fund

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Cannabis laws, carbon taxes and cyber security

Sun, 07 Oct 2018 15:30:00 -0000

On October 17th cannabis will be legal across Canada, what are the laws on cannabis impaired driving and drug possession? Then provinces are pushing back on Ottawa's plan to implement a national carbon tax next year, will they succeed? And Canada has a new cyber security centre, what are they warning Canadians about to prevent online attacks?

Guests: Jody Wilson-Raybauld, Justice Minister; Jason Kenney, Alberta United Conservative Party Leader; Scott Jones, Canadian Centre for Cyber Security

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NAFTA deadlines, convicted murderers and aboriginal healing lodges and N.B. politics

Sun, 30 Sep 2018 15:30:00 -0000

Today is the deadline for the US congress to receive the text on a NAFTA deal, Canada has not signed on. What happens next? Should convicted child murdered Terri-Lynne McClintic have access to an aboriginal healing lodge? Plus after last week's election in New Brunswick, why is the battle for the top political job in that province still going on?

Guests: Marc Garneau, Transportation Minister; Andrew Scheer, Conservative Party Leader; Blaine Higgs, New Brunswick Progressive Conservative Party Leader

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Border security,;veterans and promises and is Afghanistan a failed state?

Sun, 23 Sep 2018 15:30:00 -0000

Today we talk to Border Security Minister Bill Blair about what his government is doing to reduce the number of asylum seekers crossing into Canada illegally. Then, veterans says the government is reneging on promises made to vets in the last election, we'll put those concerns to Veterans Affairs Minister Seamus O'Regan. Plus is Afghanistan a failed state?

Guests: Bill Blair, Border Security Minister; Seamus O'Regan, Veterans Affairs Minister; John Sopko, Inspector General for the Office of the Special Inspector General for Afghanistan Reconstruction

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Government challenges courts, a new party and fall political expectations

Sun, 16 Sep 2018 15:30:00 -0000

Ontario Premier Doug pulls the nuclear trigger to reduce the size of Toronto city council, why? Then there's a new federal party, the People's Party of Canada led by former conservative MP Maxime Bernier, who does the leader hope will join his party? And we'll unpack the politics as MPs return to Ottawa on Monday and what the government hopes to accomplish this fall.

Guests: Doug Ford, Ontario Premier; Maxime Bernier, People's Party of Canada Leader; Tonda MacCharles, Toronto Star; Josh Wingrove, Bloomberg News

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The Global Oversupply of Dairy and NAFTA

Thu, 13 Sep 2018 23:30:19 -0000

In this episode of the West Block we look at the global oversupply of dairy and how this is affecting U.S. dairy farmers. As part of the ongoing NAFTA negotiations, President Trump insists the U.S. needs access to the Canadian market but how much will this really help farmers in the U.S.?

Peter Erlwien, dairy farmer

Dawn Erlwein, dairy farmer

Tom Bose, dairy farmer

Earl Myers, dairy farmer

Jerry Dryer, US Dairy Market Analyst

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NAFTA Negotiations and chaos surrounding the White House

Sun, 09 Sep 2018 15:30:00 -0000

Canadian negotiators on the NAFTA file returned to Washington two weeks ago to try and finalize a deal before the end of September. What is holding up an agreement? Is Canada's supply management system for the dairy sector really a problem? And will congress pass a deal that does not include Canada. And in the midst of these negotiations more chaos and turmoil surrounding the White House, what impact does this have on the talks?

Talent: Chrystia Freeland, Foreign Affairs Minister; Tom Reed, Republican-New York; Charlie Black, Republican Strategist

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Episode 42: Legalized pot, tariff tiff and MPs go home

Sun, 24 Jun 2018 15:30:00 -0000

This week we look at legalized recreational marijuana-the law goes in effect October 17th, what lies ahead and what is the federal government planning for a price on pot. Then, NAFTA talks are set to resume this summer, the tariff tiff escalates--we'll assess Canada-U.S. relations. And MPs have gone home for the summer, what were some of the big achievements this past year and what will be on their priority list this fall.

Guests: Ginette Petitpas Taylor, Health Minister; Christopher Sands, Johns Hopkins University; Tonda MacCharles, Toronto Star; Josh Wingrove, Bloomberg News

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Episode 41: Tariffs, Trump, Pot and some Food for Thought

Sun, 17 Jun 2018 15:30:00 -0000

In this episode we look at the tariff tiff between Canada and the U.S. Plus pot politics, senators aren't happy with the government's decision to knock back some of their ammendments, what does this mean when the bill goes back to the senate this week? And some food for thought with retired Olympian and former senator Nancy Greene Raine.

Guests: John Manley, Business Council of Canada President &CEO; Ralph Goodale, Public Safety Minister; Tony Dean, Independent Senator; Nancy Greene Raine, former Olympian and Senator

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Episode 40: Tariffs, Pipelines, Ford Nation and the Singapore Summit

Sun, 10 Jun 2018 15:30:00 -0000

As the G7 Summit wraps up in Charlevoix, Quebec, did the Canadian government make any headway with President Trum to remove the tariffs on steel and aluminum imports? Plus construction for the Kinder Morgan pipeline, how much will it cost Canadian taxpayers? A new majority PC government in Ontario, what is premier -elect Doug Ford planning? And President Trump is en route to Singapore where he will meet North Korean leader Kim Dong-un, what is at stake for this historica meeting?

Guests: Bill Morneau, Finance Minister; Lisa MacLeod, PC MPP-Ontario, Mickey Bergman, Executive Director Richadson Center for Global Developement

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Episode 39: Trade upheaval and the Ontario election

Sun, 03 Jun 2018 15:30:00 -0000

We begin the show this week talking to Canada's Foreign Affairs Minister about the recent tariffs the government announced against the U.S. set to go into effect July 1st. Then we get the view from Washington and whether there is a path forward to reverse these trade tensions. And then Ontario voters head to the polls on Thursday to choose the next premier, how close are the polls, who is up and who is down?

Guests: Chrystia Freeland, Foreign Affairs Minister; Rufus Yerxa, National Foreign Trade Council President; Rob Benzie, Toronto Star Queen's Park Bureau Chief

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Episode 38 : Border concerns, autos imports and tariffs, Israeli investigation

Sun, 27 May 2018 15:30:00 -0000

This week we'll talk to the government about what is being done to reduce the influx of asylum seekers entering Canada illegally. Then President Trump is threatening tariffs on auto imports, what does this mean for the ongoing NAFTA negotiations? And we'll hear from an Israeli government representative about Canada's push for an independent investigation into the Gaza violence earlier this month.

Guests: Ahmed Hussen, Immigration Minister; Jerry Dias, Unifor President; Nimrod Barkan, Israel's Ambassador to Canada

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Episode 37: NAFTA negotiations intensify, full disclosure with Beverly McLachlin and Food for Though with Scott Brison.

Sun, 20 May 2018 15:30:00 -0000

The U.S. congress has extended the deadline for a NAFTA deal, negotiators have until the end of the month to send them a deal, but are we close to a deal? Then Canada's first female chief justice talks about her latest project post retirement from the bench, and we'll head to the Mad Radish, just a few blocks from parliament hill, for a conversation with the Treasury Board President.

Guests: Bruce Heyman, Former U.S. Ambassador to Canada; Beverly McLachlin, Former Chief Justice of the Supreme Court; Scott Brison, Treasury Board President

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Episode 36: Asylum seekers, sexual misconduct and a conversation with Jill Scheer

Sun, 13 May 2018 15:30:00 -0000

This week we take a look at what the federal government is doing to stem the flow of asylum seekers crossing into Canada illegally from the United States. Then another NDP MP is accused of sexual misconduct, is the response by party leader Jagmeet Singh the correct one? And a conversation with Jill Scheer about raising five children in the political spotlight.

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Episode 35: Carbon pricing, peace in the Korean peninsula and lessons learned

Fri, 04 May 2018 22:23:58 -0000

This week on The West Block we look at taxing carbon from both sides of the political spectrum. Then we look at this historic summit between North and South Korea that may lead to a denucluearized Korean peninsula, is there a role for Canada to play? And lessons learned from serving in a former prime minister's office.

Guests: Ed Fast, Conservative-Ontario; Elizabeth May, Green Party Leader; Paul Evans, University of British Columbia; Ian Brodie,former chief of staff to Stephen Harper

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Episode 34: Provincial push-back, "identity" trade missions and backlash against #MeToo

Sun, 29 Apr 2018 15:30:00 -0000

From pipelines to pricing carbon, Ottawa is facing political push-back from the provinces. Environment Minister Catherine McKenna joins us to draw the lines on federal jurisdiction. And it's been a positive week in Washington. International Trade Minister François-Philippe Champagne talks NAFTA and whether trade with North Korea is on the horizon. Finally, American activist Adama Iwu on how governments can respond to the #MeToo momentum.

Guests: Catherine McKenna, Environment Minister; François-Philippe Champagne, International Trade Minister; Adama Iwu, #MeToo activist

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Episode 33: NAFTA, pipeline politcs and the constitution plus the upcoming Ontario election

Sun, 22 Apr 2018 15:30:00 -0000

As negotiations continue on the NAFTA front, what are some congressional members south of the border asking for in a new NAFTA deal? Plus more on the western pipeline battle, this time are we approaching a constitutional crisis? And in less than seven weeks voters in Ontario will go to the polls, why is Ontario NDP Leader Andrea Horwath feeling so optimistic?

Guests: Jon Faso, Republican-New York; Laura Dawson, Woodrow Wilson Centre; Jason Kenney, Alberta United Conservative Party Leader; Andrea Horwath, Ontario NDP Leader

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Prime Minister promises money for pipeline after premiers meet in Ottawa

Sun, 15 Apr 2018 19:03:23 -0000

Prime Minister Justin Trudeau met with Alberta Premier Rachel Notley and B.C.'s Premier John Horgan in Ottawa to seek a resolution to the ongoing dispute on the Kinder Morgan Trans Mountain Pipeline. So what came out of Sunday's summit? Tune in to The West Block on Global TV tonight at 11:30 p.m.

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Episode 32: Pipeline politics and social media privacy & security

Sun, 15 Apr 2018 15:30:00 -0000

As political leaders meet today in Ottawa to try and find a solution to the political standoff over the Trans Mountain pipleline project, we take a look at the opposition to this project and what the federal government can do to get it built. Then Facebook founder and CEO Mark Zuckerberg testifites before congress over privacy breaches. What can we do to protect ourselves when it comes to social media?

Guests: Andrew Weaver, B.C. Green Party Leader; Jim Carr, Natural Resources Minister; Josh Constine, TechCrunch Editor-at-Large, Tonda MacCharles, Toronto Star

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Episode 31: Crunch time for NAFTA, Trump's turmoil and cannabis

Sun, 08 Apr 2018 15:30:00 -0000

Crunch time with NAFTA but late last week more optimism as high level ministerial meetings were held in Washington. Plus President Trump has brought a new style of politics to the White House, what impact is he having on domestic politics and on the world stage? Plus will the federal government consider changes to its cannabis legislation to appease its critics?

Guests: James Moore, NAFTA Advisory Council; Thomas Friedman, Author and New York Times columnist; Bill Blair, Parliamentary Secretary to the Minister of Justice and Health

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Episode 30: Momentum and NAFTA, democracy and leaving politics

Sun, 01 Apr 2018 15:30:00 -0000

Momentum in the NAFTA negotiations, is there a breakthrough and is a deal possible? Plus what dangers lie ahead when we mix social media and politics? And Food for Thought with Tom Mulcair, lessons learned and life after politics.

Guests: Andrew Leslie, Parliamentary Secretary to the Minister of Foreign Affairs; Niall Ferguson, Author and Historian, Stanford University; Tom Mulcair, Former NDP Leader

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Episode 29: Pot, cyber security and powers for Canada's upper chamber

Sun, 25 Mar 2018 15:30:00 -0000

This week we look at the government's proposed pot legislation that was nearly snuffed out this past week as a number of senators tried to kill the bill. Will the government agree to any proposed changes on their cannabis bill and should Canadians expect legalization this summer? Then we look at cyber security in light of privacy concerns with Facebook, should governments and citizens be worried? And how independent are the Independent Senators in Canada's upper chamber?

Guests: Mark Holland, Parliamentary Secretary to the Public Safety Minister; Steve Jones, Assistant Deputy Minister-Communication Security Establishment; Former Senator Hugh Segal.

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Episode 28: Electoral interference and Russian aggression

Sun, 18 Mar 2018 15:00:00 -0000

With less than 18 months to the next federal election, Chief Political Correspondent David Akin asks Minister Scott Brison what the government is doing to protect the electoral system from foreign interference. Then Michael O'Hanlon of the Brookings Institute evaluates The West's response to Russia. And we unpack the politics of the week that was.

Guests:

Scott Brison, President of the Treasure Board and Acting Minister of Democratic Institutions
Michael O'Hanlon: National Security Analyst at the Brookings Institute
Marie-Danielle Smith, National Post
Yaroslav Baran, Earnscliffe Strategy

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Episode 27: Tariffs, Trade and Canada's New Top Cop

Sun, 11 Mar 2018 15:30:00 -0000

Global's Chief Political Correspondent David Akin hosts this week's show and tackles the brewing global trade war over the new U.S. steel and aluminum tariffs. And the Mountie's their woman. Can the RCMP change its culture now that they have a female at the helm.

Guests: Christopher Sands, Director of the Centre for Canadian Studies at John Hopkins University; Raoul Delcorde, Belgium's Ambassador to Canada; Liberal Mp Greg Fergus

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Episode 26: Scheer weighs in, federal-provincial showdown and unpacking the politics of the PM's trip to India

Sun, 04 Mar 2018 16:30:00 -0000

Lots of controversy on parliament hill this week regarding the Prime Minister's trip to India last month, this in the midst of the federal budget tabled on Tuesday. Plus Saskatchewan is the only province that did not sign on to the federal governments climate plan and now they are fighting back to get the sixty two million dollars the federal government is witholding because this province did not sign on.

Guests: Andrew Scheer, Conservative Party Leader and leader of the Official Opposition; Scott Moe, Saskatchewan Premier; Susan Delacourt, author and journalist; Joanna Smith, Canadian Press

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Episode 25 Canada-India Relations, the battle to lead the Ontario PC party, plus federal budget expectations

Sun, 25 Feb 2018 16:30:00 -0000

The Prime Minister spent the week, it was supposed to be a week to improve Canada-India relations but the visit was mired in controversy. What does this mean for relations between our two nations? Then Ontario PC leadership candidates will debate in Ottawa on Wednesday, who is leading in the polls and how what does this mean for the provincial election in June? And the federal government will table its third budget on Tuesday, what can taxpayers expect on budget day?

Guests: Ujjal Dosanjh, Former B.C. Premier; Tasha Kheiriddin, Global News Radio; Robert Benzie, Toronto Star; Craig Alexander, Chief Economist Conference Board of Canada

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Episode 24: NAFTA Negotiations, No party unity on Pipelines and federal budget expectations

Sun, 18 Feb 2018 16:30:00 -0000

Canada's Foreign Affairs Minister goes to Washington as negotiators prepare for more talks on NAFTA, what are the big issues still on the table? Plus the NDP are in Ottawa this weekend, just how divisive is the pipeline issue for the federal party? Plus the federal government tables its over later this month, what are Canada's big city mayors hoping to get this time around?

Guests: Chrystia Freeland, Foreign Affairs Minister; Jagmeet Singh, NDP Leader; Don Iveson, Edmonton Mayor

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Episode 23 : Environmental assessments, pipeline battle in the west and Food for Thought

Sun, 11 Feb 2018 16:30:00 -0000

The government announced its new environmental bill, what does this mean for future pipeline projects? And the Kinder Morgan pipeline expansion battle in the west, what more can the federal government do? Then some Food for Thought with NDP MP Niki Ashton, we break some bread and talk sleep deprivation, challenges on the hill and what a life post politics might look like.

Guests: Catherine McKenna, Environment Minister; Jason Kenney, United Conservative Party Leader ; Niki Ashton, NDP-Manitoba

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Episode 22: Pipelines, Selling NAFTA and Turkey's military offensive in Syria

Sun, 04 Feb 2018 16:30:00 -0000

This week we take a look at the battle in the west between Alberta and British Columbia over expansion of the Trans Mountain pipeline, is there a role for the federal government to play? Then we will talk to a former U.S. Ambassador to Canada on what more Canada can do when it comes to selling NAFTA south of the border. And, two weeks ago Turkey began an aggressive military campaign in northern Syria, we'll find out what and what's at stake when it comes to our NATO allies.

Guests: Jim Carr, Natural Resources Minister; Bruce Heyman, Former U.S. Ambassador to Canada; Selçuk Ünal, Turkey's Ambassador to Canada

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Episode 21: Sexual misconduct and inappropriate behaviour rocks Canadian politics plus is the American republic really in decline?

Sun, 28 Jan 2018 16:30:00 -0000

INAPPROPRIATE BEHAVIOUR, SEXUAL HARASSMENT, SEXUAL MISCONDUCT...IN RECENT MONTHS WE HAVE HEARD FROM MANY WOMEN WHO HAVE COME FORWARD TO TELL THEIR STORY. AND LAST WEEK THOSE STORIES HIT THE POLITICAL LANDSCAPE IN THIS COUNTRY FORCING THREE POLITICAL LEADERS TO RESIGN. HOW IS THIS AFFECTING POLITICS AND THE POLITICAL LANDSCAPE? PLUS A CONVERSATION WITH NEO CONSERVATIVE WRITER AND POLITICAL DAVID FRUM ABOUT HIS NEW BOOK: TRUMPOCACRY-THE CORRUPTION OF THE AMERICAN REPUBLIC.

GUESTS: LISA RAITT, DEPUTY CONSERVATIVE PARTY LEADER; SUSAN DELACOURT, I POLITICS; SUPRIYA DWIVEDI, GLOBAL NEWS RADIO; DAVID FRUM, AUTHOR 'TRUMPOCRACY-THE CORRUPTION OF THE AMERICAN REPUBLIC'

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Episode 20: Reproductive rights and government funding, ongoing NAFTA negotiations and the PM's trip to Davos

Sun, 21 Jan 2018 16:30:00 -0000

Changes to the Canada Summer Grants program mean organizations have to check a box when it comes to reproductive rights, will there be more changes for federal funding? Round six of the North America Free Trade Agreement negotiations get under way Tuesday in Montreal, how critical is this round of talks? Plus we'll unpack the politics of NAFTA and the Prime Minister's trip to Davos, Switzerland.

Guests: Patty Hajdu, Employment Minister; Ambassador Michael Froman, Former U.S. Trade Representative; David Akin, Chief Political Correspondent Global News; Bob Fife, Ottawa Bureau Chief Globe and Mail

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Episode 19: NAFTA Plan B, Canada's role in de-escalating tensions in the Korean Peninsula, plus Canada's former Ethics Commissioner

Sun, 14 Jan 2018 16:30:00 -0000

We begin the show this week with Canada's Foreign Minister on what is at stake in the next round of the NAFTA negoations later this month in Montreal and what is our plan B if the talks fail. Then two experts on the North Korean crisis plus a conversation with Canada's former Ethics Commissioner on her report on Trudeau's 2016 vacation and advice to her successor.

Guests: Chrystia Freeland, Foreign Affairs Minister; Marius Grinius, Former Ambassador to North and South Korea, Bonnie Jenkins, Former State Department Official in Obama Administration

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Episode 18: Bannon Trump war of words, geopolitical risks for 2018 and Food for Thought with Karina Gould

Sun, 07 Jan 2018 16:30:00 -0000

This week we begin with the uproar in Washington with Michael Wolff's new book, Fire and Fury, based on President Trump his actions in the White House. We talk to one republican strategist who is hopeful this will allow traditional republican party members to move forward and the extreme elements of the party will have less influence over the President. We then talk to the President of the Eurasia Group about geo political risks for 2018 and what this means for Canada. Plus another in our occasional series, Food for Thought, and this week we talk to an expectant mother on the hill.

Guests: Michael Steel, Republican Strategist; Ian Bremmer, Eurasia Group President; Karina Gould, Democratic Institutions Minister

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Episode 17: Tone on the hill, resetting relations and Food for Thought

Sun, 31 Dec 2017 16:30:00 -0000

This week we talk to Conservative Party Leader about why he has called for Canada's Finance Minister to resign. Then has the government reset its relations with the Indigenous community as promised? And Food for Thought, this week in our occasional series we'll talk to NDP MP Nathan Cullen about politics and why he sought office at such an early age.

Guests: Andrew Scheer, Conservative Party Leader; Perry Bellegarde, Assembly of First Nations National Chief; Nathan Cullen, NDP-British Columbia

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Episode 16: A conversation with the Prime Minister and our annual Christmas favourite with MPs on the hill

Sun, 24 Dec 2017 16:30:00 -0000

We begin the show this week with a conversation with Prime Minister Justin Trudeau on Christmas traditions, ethics and what keeps him up at night. Then we will unpack the politics of that conversation with two seasoned Parliament Hill journalists. And we end off our Christmas Eve show with music from Dr. Andrea McCrady, Canada's Dominion Carillonneur and MPs reading 'The Legend of The Christmas Tree'

Guests: Prime Minister Justin Trudeau; David Akin, Chielf Political Correspondent Global News; Heather Scoffield, Canadian Press Bureau Chief; Dr. Andrew McCardy, Dominion Carillonneur, Raj Grewal, Liberal-Ontario; Rachel Blaney, NDP-British Columbia; Shannon Stubbs, Conservative-Alberta; Gord Johns, NDP-British Columbia; Cheryl Hardcastle, NDP-Ontario, Martin Shields, Conservative-Alberta; Bill Blair, Liberal-Ontario, Greg Gergus, Liberal-Quebec; Larry Miller, Conservative-Ontario

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Episode 15: Taxes and small businesses, Heckling in the House and the Marathon to 2019

Sun, 17 Dec 2017 11:30:00 -0000

This week we will ask the government if they have any regrets on the handling of the proposed tax changes for small businesses given the uproar and pushback they have faced these past few months. And heckling in the house, the tone seems toxic, are the opposition to blame? Then Jagmeet Singh, the new NDP party leader on the setbacks his party faced in the recent by-elections and what his plans are to rebuild his party for 2019.

Guests: Bardish Chagger, Government House Leader; Candice Bergen, Conservative Party House Leader; Jagmeet Singh, NDP Leader

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Episode 14: Trade with China, NAFTA plus politics on the hill with fighter jets and apologies

Sun, 10 Dec 2017 16:30:00 -0000

Prime Minister Justin Trudeau returns home from China with no deal on formal trade talks. What are the stumbling blocks? We'll hear from the government on what lies ahead. Then we look south and the ongoing NAFTA negotiations, talks have hit a snag as pro-trade republican lawmakers call on President Trump not to walk away from a deal, will he listen? And the government may be buying used fighter jets from Australia, what are the politics behind this purchase and is it necessary?

Guests: David Lametti, Parliamentary Secretary to the Minister of Innovation; Jerry Dias, Unifor President; David Akin, Global News Chief Political Correspondent; Joanna Smith, Canadian Press

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Episode 13: Increasing trade with China, more controversy surrounding Finance Minister Bill Morneau and Canada's role in the North Korea crisis

Sun, 03 Dec 2017 16:30:00 -0000

The Canadian government says enhanced trade opportunities with China is a top priority for Ottawa given the growth of both countries. Then we talk to three Members of Parliament about the continued controversy surrounding Finance Minister Bill Morneau and his personal finances and whether or not he should resign. And, North Korea has launched another missile which if directed at North America could strike Toronto or New York. The government announced it will co-host a summit of foreign ministers next month to find a diplomatic solutions to North Korea and tensions in the pacific region.

Guests: Navdeep Bains, Innovation Minister; Ontario Liberal MP Marco Mendicino, Alberta Conservative MP Shannon Stubbs, B.C. NDP Kennedy Stewart; Matt DeCourcey, Parliamentary Secretary to the Minister of Foreign Affairs

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Episode 12: Unanswered Calls, Rohingya Refugees and Food for Thought

Sun, 26 Nov 2017 16:30:00 -0000

The Auditor General slams the Canada Revenue Agency for blocking calls and not answering calls from taxpayers, what is the federal government's response? And a deal has been struck between Bangladesh and Myanmar to allow over half a million Rohingyan refugees to return home, but is it safe for them to go back to Myanmar? And another in our occassional series, Food for Thought, this week Conservative Deputy Leader Lisa Raitt.

Guests: Steve MacKinnon, Parliamentary Secretary to the Minister of Public Service and Procurement; Bob Rae, Special Envoy to Myanmar; Lisa Raitt, Conservative Party Deputy Leader

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Episode 11: NATO, Security, Russia and the West, plus Canada's Military Operations

Sun, 19 Nov 2017 16:30:00 -0000

This week The West Block is in Halifax covering the Halifax International Security Forum where leaders from over seventy countries have gathered to talk about advancing a modern vision of security. We talk to NATO Secretary General Jens Stoltenberg about member nations, including Canada, meeting their pledged financial support for the alliance and what NATO is asking its members to do regarding Afghanistan. We also sit down with U.S. Senator Jeanne Shaheen to talk about Russia and its interference in the U.S. election and the present relationship between Putin and Trump. And, will Canada intervene and take a role to help ease the tensions between Iraqi and Kurdish leaders given we have troops on the ground, caught in the middle?

Guests: NATO Secretary General Jens Stoltenberg; U.S. Senator Jeanne Shaheen; Defence Minister Harjit Sajjan.

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Episode 10: Canada's Climate Commitments; Alberta's Bill 24; Offshore Tax Havens

Sun, 12 Nov 2017 16:30:00 -0000

We begin the show this week with Canada's climate commitments and whether or not we are meeting our greenhouse gas emissions targets. Then, Alberta politicians on the right and left are deeply divided over Bill 24, a bill that prevents teachers from telling parents if their child is a member of a gay straight alliance club, what happens now? And, the fallout continues from the Paradise Papers showing who and how much taxes are being avoided by those using offshore tax havens, does the government have enough tools to put an end to this and will they disclose their findings following investigations?

Guests: Catherine McKenna, Environment Minister; Jason Kenney, United Conservative Party Leader, Carla Qualtrough, Public Services and Procurement Minister

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Episode 8-Ethics, Escalating Tensions in Iraq and Civility in the House

Sun, 29 Oct 2017 15:30:00 -0000

As ethical concerns continue surrounding Finance Minister Bill Morneau's assets, we'll sit down with him to discuss these concerns and whether or not he has any regrets regarding this controversy. Then the Iraqi government rejects the Kurdish Regional Governments offer to freeze moving forward on its independence vote, what happens now in Iraq and is civil war a possibility? And heckling in Question Period, is it getting worse and do parliamentarians think it is time for more civility in the house?

Guests: Bill Morneau, Finance Minister: Bayan Sami Abdul Rahman, Kurdish Regional Government Representative to the U.S.; Mike Morden, Samara Canada Research Director

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Episode 7: Ethics Conflict, NAFTA Reset and Morneau Woes

Sun, 22 Oct 2017 15:30:00 -0000

Embattled Finance Minister Bill Morneau announced late last week he was divesting his company shares and setting up a blind trust to quell outrage over his personal assets. Plus we take a look at the comments of two former presidents speaking about the current president and what this means for nations doing business with the Trump administration. Finally, we'll talk to two parliament hill journalists about Trudeau and his liberal governments brand following the Morneau controversy.

Guests: Joel Lightbound, Parliamentary Secretary to the Minister of Finance; Gordon Giffin, Former U.S. Ambassador to Canada; Josh Wingrove, Bloomberg News; David Akin, Chief Political Correspondent Global News.

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Episode 6: NAFTA, no to social conservative issues, 'Food for Thought'

Sun, 15 Oct 2017 15:30:00 -0000

Congressman Richard Neal is the ranking member of the House Ways and Means Committee, a committee which could determine if a new NAFTA deal passes congress. Then we will talk to Ontario PC Leader Patrick Brown about why he is telling his party they will not debate social conservative issues at their convention next month. And, we begin our occassional series, Food For Thought, this week cabinet minister Kent Hehr on his favourite pub in Ottawa and lessons learned from being a victim of random violence.

Guests: Congressman Richard Neal, Democrat-Massachusetts; Patrick Brown, Ontario PC Leader; Kent Hehr, Sports and Persons with Disabilities Minister

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Episode 5: Pipelines in Canada and NAFTA round five

Sun, 08 Oct 2017 15:30:00 -0000

Trans Canada cancels plans to proceed with Energy East pipeline and the opposition blames the government for its tough regulation policies. Round four of the NAFTA negotiations gets underway this week in Washington, what are the essentials for Mexico for a renegotiated agreement? And what changes is the government planning on its proposed tax changes?

Guests: Jim Carr, Natural Resources Minister; Dionisio Perez Jacome, Mexican Ambassador to Canada, Joël Lightbound, Parliamentary Secretary to the Minister of Finance

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Episode 4-NAFTA, Taxes and Netflix in Canada

Tue, 03 Oct 2017 18:58:58 -0000

In this episode we get an update on the NAFTA negotiations, what premiers want from the federal government when it comes to their proposed tax changes for small businesses, and the new Netflix deal in Canada.

Guests: Foreign Affairs Minister Chrystia Freeland; Nova Scotia Premier Stephen McNeil; Heritage Minister Melanie Joly

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Episode 3 - MPs Return To Ottawa as Missile Threats and Border Restrictions Increase

Sun, 24 Sep 2017 15:30:00 -0000

Former prime minister, The Rt.Hon. Paul Martin weighs in on Canada joining the Ballistic Missile Defence program, twelve years after he said no to the system. And, as the government here moves ahead with cannabis legalization, how will this impact the increasing restrictions for those travelling to the U.S.? Then a look at week at the first week back following the summer recess for MPs, who is winning the political debate?

Guests: The Rt. Hon. Paul Martin, former prime minister; Mark Holland, Parliamentary Secretary to the Minister of Public Safety; Joanna Smith, Canadian Press; Bob Fife, Globe and Mail Ottawa Bureau Chief

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Episode 2 - Cannabis, Ballistic Missiles and Big Tobacco

Sun, 17 Sep 2017 15:30:00 -0000

Cannabis is set to become law in Canada July 1st, 2018. Law enforcement officials across the country say that deadline is too tight, will the government delay? Meanwhile defence experts across the country say its time to join the Ballistic Missile Defence program given the latest missile launches from North Korea but opposition remains high. And tobacco giant Philip Morris says it has a new heat not burn tobacco product that may help reduce smoking in Canada, we'll hear the pitch they want to give the government.

Guests: Bill Blair, Parlamentary Secretary to the Minister of Justice, Former Diplomat Colin Robertson, Lt. Gen. (ret'd) George Macdonald, André Calantzopoulos, CEO Philip Morris International

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Episode 1 - Canada U.S. Relations: The Path Forward

Wed, 13 Sep 2017 15:24:12 -0000

President Trump says he may end up terminating the NAFTA agreement if he cannot get a good deal with Canada and Mexico. The deadline to reach a new deal is January 1st, 2018 ahead of elections south of the border. Will the three nations be able to reach a deal by then? And given the rhetoric coming from the Trump administration, how is this affecting relations between Canada and Mexico and what does this mean for doing business in Washington, DC.

Guests:

Ambassador Carla Hills, former primary negotiator for the original NAFTA deal Republican Congressman Kevin Cramer, North Dakota

Michael Steele, former Chairman of the Republican National Committee

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