DAN CEARNS, Local Journalism Initiative Reporter, for The Standard
DURHAM/KAWARTHA: Canadians will be going to the polls for a federal election next month.
On Sunday, August 15th, Prime Minister Justin Trudeau announced the decision, at a televised press conference.
“I have just had a talk with our Governor-General, and she has accepted my request to dissolve parliament. Canadians will therefore vote on September 20th.”
The Prime Minister framed this election as an opportunity to let Canadians decide how the government tackles issues like the COVID-19 pandemic and climate change moving forward.
“The decisions your government makes, right now, will define the future your kids and grandkids grow up in. So, in this pivotal, consequential moment, who wouldn’t want a say? Who wouldn’t want a chance to help decide where our country goes from here? Canadians need to choose how we finish the fight against COVID-19 and build back better.”
Prime Minister Trudeau added, the COVID-19 pandemic was not discussed during the last federal election, so he feels the government needs to let Canadian residents decide the country’s future.
“The government and indeed Parliament needs an opportunity to get a mandate from Canadians,” he stressed.