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Conservative leadership candidate accuses the Prime Minister of using vaccine mandates as a tool to create division among Canadians.
Poilievre’s Support for Truckers
Conservative leadership contender Pierre Poilievre has expressed his support for truckers involved in ongoing protests, claiming he stands with them and is “proud” of their actions.
Blame on Trudeau for Border Issues
In an interview for the Postmedia podcast Full Comment, Poilievre placed the blame for disruptions affecting crucial border infrastructure on Prime Minister Justin Trudeau. He criticized Trudeau’s response, arguing that it has exacerbated the situation.
Criticism of Government Overreach
According to Poilievre, the protests are a reaction to two years of extensive government overreach led by a Prime Minister who degrades those who oppose his strict policies. He remarked that if Canadians are suffering from these protests, it is because Trudeau’s actions have made them necessary.
Allegations Against the Vaccine Mandate
Poilievre contended that the vaccine mandate for truckers appears to be a ‘vindictive wedge strategy’ intended to divide the population and target a minority group—those unvaccinated—for political gain. He believes this has backfired on Trudeau.
Calls for Action
Poilievre has criticized Trudeau for creating an untenable political scenario, stating that the Prime Minister’s refusal to acknowledge his mistakes and repeal the mandates has left the country “hostage” to ongoing protests.
Shift in Stance by Bergen
On the same day, Conservative interim leader Candice Bergen urged the Freedom Convoy protesters to dismantle their barricades, highlighting the negative impact of blockades on the economy and lives of everyday Canadians. This marked a change in her previously sympathetic stance towards the protests.
Conservative Motion on Mandates
Bergen called for bipartisan support to end federal mandates and requested the Liberal government present a plan to do so by the end of the month. Despite widespread support from other parties, including the Bloc Québécois, the motion is non-binding and lacks government obligation for implementation.
