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Dominic LeBlanc

Liberal on International Trade

Replying to Pierre Paul-Hus (Conservative)
“Mr. Speaker, in Canada, the economy is in decline and food banks are overwhelmed. The Prime Minister is using an old trick to try to cover up his failures: He is creating a smokescreen. Last week, he said that he could wait two and a half more years without a deal with Donald Trump. On the weekend, he called six by-elections, and then what did he do? He picked up the phone and called his good friend Donald. Then, he announced that he is resuming negotiations. That is quite the coincidence. This is another political diversion tactic. My question is this: Does the Prime Minister actually think that he can fix the trade issues with Donald Trump, or is this just another smokescreen to sway voters?”

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Mr. Speaker, I understand that our Conservative friends are worried about the by-elections, and with good reason. I think it is important to note that nothing has changed since last week. We obviously called by-elections because these ridings need people to represent them in the House. The reason we are holding these by-elections is because members of the Conservative caucus have stepped down. At the same time, yes, we are having conversations with our American counterparts, and we will continue to work until we have an agreement that is in Canada’s best interests.