The West Block: Recent Episodes
Global News / Curiouscast
The West Block reverses the convention of political talk shows, speaking directly with Canadians in communities across the country and bringing their concerns to Ottawa for answers.
The Global journalists behind the West Block not only ask questions, but seek solutions. The end product is a show that doesn’t just follow the agenda, but helps set it.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
‘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.
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.
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.
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.
‘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.
'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.
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.
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 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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‘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 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 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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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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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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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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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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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.) 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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'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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'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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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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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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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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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 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 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 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 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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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 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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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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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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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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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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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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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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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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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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A feature interview with Opposition Leader Erin O'Toole as MPs return to Parliament. O'Toole weighs in on vaccine mandates, leadership questions and his priorities for the new session. The mayor of Abbotsford, BC describes the impact of last week's devastating floods on his community. Natural Resources Minister Jonathan Wilkinson discusses Ottawa's plans to adapt to climate change.
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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 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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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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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 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 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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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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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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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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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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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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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
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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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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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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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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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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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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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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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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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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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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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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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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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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‘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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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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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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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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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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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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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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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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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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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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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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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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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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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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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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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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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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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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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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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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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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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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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 : 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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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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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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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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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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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....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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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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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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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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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 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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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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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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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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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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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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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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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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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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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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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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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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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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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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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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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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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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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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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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