CANADA latest news

Prime Minister announces new Commissioner and Administrator of Yukon

March 9, 2018
Ottawa, Ontario

The Prime Minister, Justin Trudeau, today announced the appointments of Angélique Bernard as the next Commissioner of Yukon and Adeline Webber as the next Administrator of the territory.

Since moving to Yukon in 1995, Angélique Bernard has worked hard to advance Francophone rights and women’s rights, making sure they have access to the services they need to thrive. A devoted member of the territory’s francophone community, she served as president of the Association franco-yukonnaise for seven years and is currently the organization’s vice-president.

Adeline Webber is a proud member of the Teslin Tlingit First Nation. She was born and raised in Whitehorse, where she spent most of her career working in the federal public service. Ms. Webber has worked diligently to advance the recognition of Indigenous women’s rights, and played an important role in the implementation of land claims and First Nation self-government agreements in the territory.

The Prime Minister took the opportunity to recognize Douglas Phillips, whose term as Commissioner ended January 31, 2018, for his long career in service to Yukoners. He also thanked the outgoing Administrator, Gerald Isaac, for his service, including his work fulfilling the legislative function of Commissioner since the position became vacant in January.

Quotes

“With her leadership experience and advocacy work, I know that Angélique Bernard will be an excellent Commissioner of Yukon. She has a deep understanding and appreciation of the diverse people who call Yukon home, and her unique perspective will be invaluable as she works to represent their best interests.”
– Rt. Hon. Justin Trudeau, Prime Minister of Canada

“Adeline Webber has dedicated much of her career to public service and has proven herself to be a champion of Indigenous Peoples. I know that the territory will benefit greatly from the experience and knowledge she will bring to the table as the Administrator of Yukon.”
– Rt. Hon. Justin Trudeau, Prime Minister of Canada

Quick facts

• Territorial Commissioners and Administrators are Governor in Council appointments.
• Territorial Commissioners fulfill many of the same duties as the Lieutenant Governor of a province. Their responsibilities include swearing in Members of the Legislative Assembly and Members of the Executive Council, opening the Legislative Assembly, and providing assent for legislation passed by the Assembly.
• Territorial Administrators act in the place of the Commissioner if the Commissioner is unable to fulfill his or her duties during an absence or illness or other situation, or when the office is vacant.

Biographical notes

• Angélique Bernard
• Adeline Webber

Prime Minister announces new Commissioner Designate of the Royal Canadian Mounted Police

March 9, 2018
Ottawa, Ontario

The Prime Minister, Justin Trudeau, today announced the appointment of Brenda Lucki as the new Commissioner Designate of the Royal Canadian Mounted Police (RCMP). This appointment is effective April 16, 2018.

A proven leader, Ms. Lucki brings with her a diverse background and the expertise needed to keep our communities safe and secure while addressing the needs of the RCMP. She will play a vital role in advancing reconciliation with Indigenous Peoples, promoting gender equity, supporting mental wellness across the RCMP, addressing workplace harassment, and protecting the civil liberties of all Canadians.

Ms. Lucki has enjoyed a long and distinguished career at the RCMP. In her nearly 32 years with the national police force, she has served in Divisions in Quebec, Ontario, Manitoba, Alberta, and Saskatchewan, worked with the United Nations in the former Yugoslavia, and helped train and select police units for the UN Civilian Police Mission in Haiti.

Since October 2016, Ms. Lucki has served as the Commanding Officer of “Depot” Division, ensuring cadets receive the best possible training – including diversity training – before they begin to serve our communities.

The Prime Minister made this announcement during an event at the RCMP Academy, “Depot” Division. On behalf of all Canadians, the Prime Minister also thanked Daniel Dubeau for assuming leadership of the RCMP after the retirement of former Commissioner Bob Paulson. Both Mr. Dubeau and Mr. Paulson were recognized for their efforts to modernize and strengthen Canada’s national police force.

Quote

“I am pleased to announce the appointment of Brenda Lucki as the 24^th Commissioner of the Royal Canadian Mounted Police. She is an exceptional leader who is known for being a hard worker, a dedicated officer, and someone who is constantly looking for ways to improve the status quo. We look forward to working with her to help keep all Canadians safe.”

– Rt. Hon. Justin Trudeau, Prime Minister of Canada

Quick facts

• Ms. Lucki was chosen through the Government’s open, transparent, and merit-based appointment process.
• When Ms. Lucki takes her new post on April 16, 2018, she will be the 24^th Commissioner in the RCMP’s history, and the first woman to serve as Commissioner in a permanent role.
• Ms. Lucki has received numerous awards for her excellent service. Most notably, she is a member of the Order of Merit of the Police Forces in recognition of the work she did to improve the relationship between Indigenous communities and the RCMP in Northern Manitoba.
• In February 2016, the Government of Canada announced a new, more rigorous approach to Governor in Council appointments. To this end, selection committees are established to assess and recommend candidates for appointment to various Governor in Council positions.
• A Selection Committee for the position of Commissioner of the RCMP was established as an independent, non-partisan body whose mandate is to provide recommendations to the Minister of Public Safety and Emergency Preparedness on a list of highly qualified candidates for this position.  

Biographical notes

• Brenda Lucki

Related product

• Budget 2018: Investing to keep Canadians safe

Statement by the Prime Minister on the opening of the 2018 Paralympic Winter Games

March 9, 2018
Ottawa, Ontario

The Prime Minister, Justin Trudeau, today issued the following statement on the opening of the 2018 Paralympic Winter Games in PyeongChang, South Korea:

“Today, as the 2018 Paralympic Winter Games open, I join with all Canadians to wish our athletes the best of luck in PyeongChang. Over the next ten days, our Paralympians will compete against the best in the world, push for the podium, and show us what is possible with hard work and determination.

“The Paralympics bring together diverse communities of people, from all over the world, who share a passion for sport and competition. Canada’s Paralympians are some of our country’s finest athletes. They have trained for years, and made incredible sacrifices, to be part of the 2018 Paralympic Winter Games. I have no doubt they will represent the best of Canada and make their mark in PyeongChang.

“To all of our Paralympians: You set a remarkable example, and inspire us all, especially our young people living with disabilities. In PyeongChang, I know you will raise the bar even higher and make us all proud.

“Go Canada!”

Reminder - Itinerary for Friday, March 9, 2018

March 8, 2018
Ottawa, Ontario

Itinerary for the Prime Minister, Justin Trudeau, for Friday, March 9, 2018:

Regina, Saskatchewan

Note: All times local.

10:15 a.m. The Prime Minister will make an announcement followed by a media availability.

RCMP Heritage Centre, RCMP Academy, “Depot” Division
5907 Dewdney Avenue

Notes for media:

• Media are asked to arrive no later than 9:15 a.m. at the Fort Dufferin Guard Room
• Open coverage

12:55 p.m. The Prime Minister will visit a library and deliver remarks to highlight parental leave in Budget 2018.

George Bothwell Branch
Regina Library
2787 Gordon Road

Notes for media:

• Media should arrive no later than 12:15 p.m.
• Photo opportunity
• Open remarks

2 p.m. The Prime Minister will meet with the Premier of Saskatchewan, Scott Moe.

Saskatchewan Legislative Building
2405 Legislative Drive

Notes for media:

• Media should arrive no later than 1:30 p.m.
• Photo opportunity at the beginning of the meeting

Media appearances

7:50 a.m. An interview with the Prime Minister will air on CBC Radio One Regina, The Morning Edition.
8:18 a.m. An interview with the Prime Minister will air on CTV Regina Morning Live.
8:53 a.m. An interview with the Prime Minister will air on Global News Morning Regina.