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MPs return to Ottawa as Parliament resumes, calls for election continue

By Evan Taylor Sep 16, 2024 | 6:17 AM

Jason Hafso / Unsplash

The fall sitting of Parliament resumes on Monday, marking the first time MPs have gathered since June.

The session kicks off with increased pressure on Prime Minister Justin Trudeau, who faces mounting challenges from Conservative Leader Pierre Poilievre and a shifting political landscape.

Conservatives have maintained a strong lead in public opinion polls throughout the summer, intensifying their push for an early election. Poilievre is expected to present a motion of non-confidence aimed at destabilizing Trudeau’s minority government. This move is part of a broader strategy to leverage dissatisfaction and force a general election.

Conservative Leader Pierre Poilievre. Image: CPAC video capture

On Sunday while speaking at a party event Polievre renewed his calls for NDP leader Jagmeet Singh to halt his party’s support for the Liberals.

The New Democrats have begun distancing themselves from the Liberals after Singh decided to end their supply-and-confidence agreement. Singh’s declaration to handle votes individually rather than in a block further complicates the Liberals’ path forward.

During the first day back, MPs will debate Bill C-71, which proposes changes to Canadian citizenship rules. This legislation, tied to a Supreme Court ruling, was tabled in May but was not addressed before the summer break.

The day’s proceedings will culminate in the first question period of the fall, where party leaders will address pressing issues such as the carbon tax, immigration policy, and social program cuts.

Government House Leader Karina Gould is set to outline the Liberals’ priorities for the session, while Poilievre and Singh will highlight their respective party agendas.