Former Member of Parliament for Orléans and retired LGen of the Canadian Forces / Ancien député fédéral d’Orléans et LGén à la retraite de l’armée canadienne
It’s great to see a trained professional who knows their job, and has the will, leadership and initiative to get things moving without endless bleating…
I wonder what the great Prime Ministers (PMs) of the past might think. During the entirety of the Second World War, neither the British (Churchill) nor the Canadian (M-King) PMs ever sought to limit debate, especially on matters involving financial appropriations
#cdnpoli
Hypothesis: If it takes Canada 2 decades to buy and deploy new warships, fighters, army air defence and military (not leased) supply ships, then we may have the worst defence procurement system in the world. Discuss.
#cdnpoli
From the Parliamentary website, “the Official Opposition's role is to oppose the government on a day-to-day basis and to hold them accountable. In this context, the opposition takes on an adversarial role, criticizing government legislation and actions”.
#cdnpoli
Math check: The new budget allocates new $8Bn to Defence (most to be spent on NORAD and the Arctic) but the govt has lapsed/reallocated/reprofiled over $12Bn out of Defence since 2015. How is this good news?
#cdnpoli
#Budget2022
The people who did what they did to Admiral Mark Norman were not, in any sense, great leaders. Speaking of which, the Admiral epitomizes great leadership!!
#cdnpoli
During WW II the Parliaments of the UK and Canada played a vital part of the war effort. They always sat (Westminster was hit 14 times by bombs) and both Churchill and Mackenzie King never neglected it. They saw Parliament as an instrument of public persuasion and legitimacy.
Imagine if health-care workers, first-responders, the Armed Forces, store clerks and other other “essential services” did the same - would no doubt be legislated to stay at work. This is scandalous. Democracy is being hijacked.
#UNSAT
#cdnpol
🇺🇸🇬🇧🇦🇺 The United States has announced that a new "trilateral security" partnership will be formed with Australia and the United Kingdom, which will work on "advanced defence capabilities" in the Indo-Pacific.
Though many will deny or disagree, Canada and our allies should be preparing for war. Ukraine is doing all the fighting. For now. So why is Canada so slow and reluctant to provide them weapons and ammunition? One third of a C17 load is not very helpful….
#cdnpoli
#cdnpolitics
In the last 8 years over $19 Bn that was promised to defence by the Liberals in SSE has not been spent. Hundreds of equipment projects are lagging, and our Armed Forces are short by 16,000 people. Things are NOT getting done.
#cdnpoli
After defence spending fell to less than 1% of GDP under the Conservatives, our government is investing to support our troops.
Defence spending is growing by over 70% under this government. Whether it’s new F-35s, warships, or armoured vehicles, we’re getting it done.
Canada’s current Prime Minister and Cabinet are not serious about defence and security, and have shown no sense of urgency in meeting our agreed 2% of GDP. Very good at spinning numbers, but can’t deliver. And a significant number of US Senators know it
Another 1800 young Poles swearing the military oath today.
Welcome to the Polish Army.
Poland is in the process of implementing a program doubling the size of its army from 150 000 soldiers to 300 000
The government has hinted that the number could be increased to 400 000
🇵🇱
Interesting. The planning, training, equipping and execution involving many millions of soldiers for the D Day invasion and the subsequent battles to liberate Europe in WW2 took less than 4 years….
#Cdnpoli
Disturbing. Kevin is a meticulous fact-checker. Canada’s poor initial response in Kabul points to an extreme of centralized political micro-management, which invariably constipates the speed and authority of the people at the pointy end, the ones who know what to do…
Great that Canada is providing some air defence weapons to Ukraine. Question to the wider audience: what percentage of these Canadian soldiers do you think are quietly wondering when their government will provide the same to them, instead of another announced budget cut?
@cdnpoli
Today, while visiting our troops in the UK, I announced that Canada will contribute $33 million to the British-led partnership delivering high-priority air defence equipment to Ukraine.
This initiative is providing Ukraine with hundreds of air defence missiles and systems.
We currently have less than 35 CAF people deployed with the UN. When our military was smaller and the World less dangerous, we had thousands on both NATO and UN missions. Under the current regime we have mainly talk, with little action. Time for a change?
#cdnpoli
In the 2017 Defence Policy document Canada also promised dozens of various new weapons systems to start re-equipping the Canadian Armed Forces. None of those have arrived, either. Can’t Get Things Done
#CGTD
It’s a dangerous world out there. Canada is worth defending, and defending well. Investing in credible deterrence is far less expensive and tragic than a war.
"I'm very happy Canadians feel safe and secure. I also think it's very naive." VAdm Bob Auchterlonie, commander of the Canadian Joint Operations Command
.
@NORADCommand
has a unique binational responsibility of defending both 🇺🇸and 🇨🇦. Unfortunately, Canada doesn’t even come close to pulling its weight on defense spending.
Today in
@SASCGOP
, I asked Lt. General Guillot, nominee to assume command of NORAD, whether he will press
Welcomed
@CanadianPM
Trudeau to the U.S. Capitol today. Shared values and close economic ties have always been the strength of the U.S.-Canada relationship. But it’s time for our northern ally to invest seriously in the hard power required to help preserve prosperity and security
Good news for Atlantic Canadians, rural Canadians, and people across the country: We’re putting more money in your pocket – and making it easier for you to find affordable, long-term solutions to heat your home. Tune in here to find out how:
Serious countries are very serious about spending money on deterrence and new defence capabilities, as quickly as possible. Canada is not, and our inability to act quickly has generated risks from both potential enemies, and certain friends
#cdnpoli
Poland allocates 3.9% of its GDP to defense, which exceeds the US figure - Financial Times
According to the publication, NATO plans to announce on February 14 that 18 of its 31 member states will meet the requirement to spend 2% of their GDP on defense spending this year. In
Well said. Within DND, over the last 6 years the Feds promised but not delivered on over $12 Billion intended/promised for equipment or training the troops. New ships? New planes? Ammo to train? Search and rescue?
We are increasingly reliant on the military to manage compounding domestic crises. Also, we massively underfund and undersupply that military. Is problem.
We strongly support and are committed to maintaining Canada's system of supply management, including for dairy farmers. We've been clear about that since the talks began. We will continue defending Canadian farmers while working toward a modernized NAFTA.
Well worth a careful read. In an increasingly tumultuous world where allies and alliances matter more than ever, Canada’s ongoing neglect of our defence, security and diplomatic organizations is both naive and dangerous
@cdnpoli
@wsj
Great stuff! And the vision and hard work leading to the Arctic Patrol Ships comes from (amongst others) Vice Admiral Mark Norman! My compliments to the those who built her, the RCN and Mark!
It’s been over 65 years since a
@RoyalCanNavy
ship has completed a journey through the Northwest Passage.
@HMCSHarryDeWolf
is the 1st to do so since 1954. The first of our new fleet from SSE, our enhanced capabilities will serve Canada well in Arctic, now & into the future.
Somebody is missing from this team of stalwarts, nations truly committed to collective defence and making real efforts to international peace and security. Trying to think who it might be. Any ideas?
@cdnpolinews
On the second anniversary of AUKUS—a historic trilateral security partnership with 🇦🇺&🇬🇧—we reaffirm our commitment to fostering deeper security cooperation between our three countries. I thank Australia & the UK for their partnership as we work to promote shared values & goals
So, despite sanctions Canada is sending money to Russia to buy titanium. Russia needs money to produce bombers and missiles, made out of titanium. Russia attacks Ukraine with bombers and missiles funded in part by Canadian money. Are we proud of this?
#cdnpoli
At a time of urgent need DND is not ready. The politicians and bureaucrats have withheld/lapsed/not spent promised money for troops, eqpt and training of about $15 Billion since 2015, while our procurement system for big capabilities is still broken
#cdnpoli
Great to see a PM spending some quality time with those who are suitability equipped and appreciated for their willingness to serve and defend their nation, above all else
#cdnpoli
Welcoming the Prime Minister today. Carriers may be operated by navies, but they are instruments of national strategic power.
#CSG21
will work across Government to deliver security, diplomacy and prosperity on behalf of
#GlobalBritain
.
This is remarkable! Delighted to see a nation and political leadership willing to go out there and direct their soldiers (Ukrainian) to rescue innocent Afghan civilians trying to flee to another country (Canada)
#cdnpoli
It has been my honour and privilege to represent the constituents of Orléans as the federal Member of Parliament. After careful consideration, I believe it is time for me to take a new path.
Both of my grandfathers fought at Vimy as gunners, and like so many would never talk about what they saw or did there. 20 years later they both had major roles in helping lead Canada’s efforts in WW 2
On April 9, 1917, The Battle of Vimy Ridge began. Canada's victory at Vimy would come at a great cost, but would also forever shape our identity as a nation.
#CanadaRemembers
It’s fantastic to have good friends and allies who have the trained troops, the equipment needed, and the high levels of readiness to help rescue people in danger
#cdnpoli
This was both predictable and predicted, and the results will be tragic beyond belief, especially for those Afghans who worked for Canada and for all women and girls.
The passing of a Canadian icon, a true gentleman and a family friend who grew up alongside my Mother. I had the honour of seeing him last on the film set of “Departures” in Toronto, where he dazzled the cast, crew and hangers-on with his charm, wit and presence.
Excellent. I could not agree more. Time for Canada to wake up and take immediate action to increase our deterrence and defence contributions in an increasingly dangerous world
#cdnpoli
We face a pivotal moment in our history.
The global security environment is changing quickly.
As we stare down a future that is fraught with risk and uncertainty, Canada must do whatever it takes to defend our country and the rules that have kept our people safe.
It’s very rare for a Deputy Minister to directly criticize the government of the day ( Liberals) on such an important issue, especially in DND!….
#cdnpoli
Canada's deputy minister of National Defence said in May the military's operation to end sexual misconduct in its ranks "lost its way" because the government failed to properly implement recommendations from a landmark report into the issue six years ago:
Fact: in 22/23 the Lib govt did not spend $1.9 Bn promised under 2017 Def Policy. In 23/24 it was another $1.4 Bn = $3.3 Bn. While our allies expect more, we do less. Source: public accts suppc&mains. Is Canada serious about defence?
#cdnpol
#NATO
Really hard to claim the morale high ground with Ukraine when Canada knowingly breaks the sanctions it helped impose. This had to be approved by Cabinet, so…
#cdnpoli
In defence procurement the cost of delay is the price of failure. The Federal government owns this issue for not taking defence acquisition seriously. Canadians will pay a lot more for less as a direct result.
#cdnpoli
Defence, deterrence and security issues are now a top priority for almost all NATO members. Meanwhile, the impact of the recent $1Bn cut to Canada’s Armed Forces will contribute to even more equipment delays, training reductions and ammo shortages
#cdnpoli
Russia’s savage war in Ukraine grinds on, Canada continues to dither over buying combat equipment and ammo, and NATO’s frustration about our poor levels of defence funding soar. The Govts solution is…more budget cuts to DND !!
#cdnpolitics
Dr.Perry is a true expert on Cdn Def spending.
Fact: during this fiscal year our Armed Forces will receive less cash then 2023. While Ukraine fights to live, NATO ramps up quickly and our Armed Forces are at their worst state of readiness in many decades
#NATO
#cdnpoli
As
@jensstoltenberg
visits Ottawa to talk about
@NATO
and surely Canada meeting neither
@NATO
defence investment pledge, consider that this fiscal year, the cash increase in
#ONSAF
is less than the 2023 Budget cut for
@NationalDefence
.
The net impact is -$153M this year.
Interesting data point. As of 19 April any US adult can sign up/show up and get a COVID vaccine. What is the national planned or forecasted equivalent date for Canadians, svp
#cdnpoli
NATO leadership is always so polite. Others might say “Canada, you are becoming a bunch of defence free-loaders. There is a rabid Bear on the prowl, and the Dragon is stirring. Stop talking, start doing. Invest lots more in your defences, starting with the Arctic’
#cdnpoli
Today, I announced that I will be wrapping up my time as the Member of Parliament for Durham as the spring session of Parliament ends. It has been the honour of a lifetime.
Mollie, Jack, and Rebecca – I love you & want to thank you for serving alongside me these past ten years🇨🇦
Yup. We pointed out the growth in senior officers, senior public servants and consultants. And for the last 9 years it’s become even worse, with added layers of process and a dramatic drop in operational readiness. Is Canada serious about defence?
#cdnpoli
Heh. "Resistance to cut the military leadership has, in the past, come from the military leadership itself.
@HonAndrewLeslie
himself noted that at a meeting in December 2010 involving generals, admirals and senior DND public servants, there was a tendency for the group to argue
Honoured to representing Canada with
@HarjitSajjan
at the magnificent funeral for John McCain at the Washington National Cathedral. A great American and a true friend of Canada.
It was a privilege to be a member of Kofi Annan’s team while serving in the Zagreb HQ of the United Nations Protection Force in 1995/96. A remarkable and gracious world leader who believed in service to others above all else, and a true internationalist who will be sorely missed
It is with immense sadness that the Annan family and the Kofi Annan Foundation announce that Kofi Annan, former Secretary General of the United Nations and Nobel Peace Laureate, passed away peacefully on Saturday 18th August after a short illness...
Justin Trudeau: we got a lot to talk about. I been to Golden Gate. I think you gave me these socks last time.
Gavin Newsom: (looks away with an eye roll) Unbelievable. You still doing those socks.
Justin Trudeau: well you know what..
Gavin Newsom: have you ever been caught
On his first full day in Downing Street, the new British Prime Minister, Keir Starmer, revealed he had spoken to Ukrainian leader Volodymyr Zelenskyy.
Sir Keir said: "It is for me to be absolutely clear that the first duty of my government is security and defence, to make clear
As Premier
@fordnation
said, distributing the
#COVID19
vaccine is going to be the largest logistical undertaking in a generation.
That's why we created the COVID-19 Vaccine Distribution Task Force, chaired by a logistics expert, General Hillier!
#ONpoli
I am proud to support
@mflalonde
as the next Liberal candidate to represent Orléans this federal election! Je suis fier de soutenir Marie-France Lalonde comme la prochaine candidate Libérale pour représenter Orléans pour cette élection fédérale!
#cdnpoli
#elxn43
#orleans
#liberal
Sometimes big organizations make policies that don’t make cultural sense in other countries. Let’s see how quickly Whole Foods reacts to the gathering storm...lest we forget.
#cdnpoli
U.S.-based Whole Foods Market says poppies aren't allowed under its recently updated uniform policy, which affects employees at its 14 locations across Canada.
@KimberleyMolina
Outstanding recent results for Ukraine in using layered Air Defence to protect their people, equipment, towns and cities against a range of Russian air attacks. Canada continues to be very busy using a sophisticated Government process to research possible options…
Ukrainian 🇺🇦 Air Defenses Intercepted 18 out of 18 missiles or 100% of all missiles fired by Russia: 6 Kinzhals, 9 Kalibr Cruise Missiles, 3 More Ballistic Missiles, 6 Shahed Kamikaze Drones
Tonight, the Patriot Air Defense System was put to the test and proved its capabilities
Well, to be fair, they just handed in $ 3 Billion this year that was promised for defence equipment, training and military spare parts, so they do have some additional spending power…
#cdnpoli
Stunner of a scoop by
@brianlilley
— the $400K in hotel rooms Canada paid to attend the Queen's funeral included 5 nights at the Corinthia Hotel's 904 sq ft. "River Suite," which at $6K/night includes butler service. It's not clear who stayed in this room
Despite the clear and present danger of Russia and others to our friends and allies, our infamous and glacial defence procurement system provides the excuse for the Liberals to focus on very expensive vote buying programs. While Ukraine burns.
#cdnpoli
US House Foreign Affairs Committee Chairman Michael McCaul:
If Ukraine falls, then Russia will invade Moldova, Georgia, and the Baltics (NATO members). Clear parallels to Hitler & Stalin's invasion of Europe in 1939.
To avoid sending our men & women to war, we must arm Ukraine.
On a short break from a late night debate I was joined in the parliamentary restaurant by Capt Erica Leslie RCA, and my mother Helen, RCAF (retired). Nanny Boo first had dinner in this same magnificent restaurant in 1946 when her father was Minister of Health and Welfare...
NATO is now asking Canada to do more about defence capabilities and spending. A growing concern is Minister of Finance will promise large sums many years from now. Like last time. Been there. Seen that. Really bad.
#cdnpoli
As Putin threatens nuclear options, our allies are ramping up military capability for whatever comes next, both short and long term. Meanwhile, DND just handed back/did not spend $3 Billion this year. Canada, please pay attention and demand some answers
#cdnpoli
Over the last 7 years the political and public service leadership at DND and within the machinery of Govt has failed Canada by not providing the Canadian Armed Forces the resources, wisdom and results they need to help deter or protect us from those who want war
#cdnpoli
In memory of Gord Brown, an exemplary parliamentarian, a fantastic father, a devoted husband, a proud conservative, and a good friend. This gentleman taught me a lot about being a whip and how Parliament Hill works. My deepest condolences.
Russia’s latest brutal invasion of Ukraine is almost a year old. What deterrence or combat equipment has Canada bought for the CAF since Feb 2022? Not announced, but actually bought?
#cdnpol
BREAKING:
The State Department has approved a HIMARS sale to Poland for USD 10 billion.
Poland will be able to buy 486 HIMARS launchers, 45 ATACMS included.
The State Department has assessed that the sale won’t alter the military balance in the region.
Ukraine has 18 HIMARS.
Over the last 7 years the political and public service leadership at DND and within the machinery of Govt has failed Canada by not providing the Canadian Armed Forces the resources, wisdom and results they need to help deter or protect us from those who want war
#cdnpoli
Our salute to retired Lieutenant-General Andrew Leslie, former head of the Canadian army in Afghanistan, who announced he will be stepping down as the MP for
#Orl
éans this fall.
#cdnpoli
#onpoli
As we near the end of Black History month in Canada, we remember the career of a pioneering Gunner CWO Errol Patrick, MMM, CD who was a Korean War vet, RSM of 3 RCHA, SM IG at the Artillery School, and RSM RCA before retiring in 1985. A true leader and example to all gunners.