Trudeau names former GG David Johnston as new independent special rapporteur
CTV
Prime Minister Justin Trudeau has named former governor general David Johnston as the new independent special rapporteur who will be looking into foreign interference. He has been tasked with helping 'protect the integrity of Canada's democracy.'
Prime Minister Justin Trudeau has named former governor general David Johnston as the new independent special rapporteur who will be looking into foreign interference.
Tasked with helping "protect the integrity of Canada's democracy," Trudeau has announced his intention to appoint Johnston, following consultations with all parties in the House of Commons.
"Canadians need to have confidence in our electoral system, and in our democracy. As Independent Special Rapporteur, David Johnston brings integrity and a wealth of experience and skills, and I am confident that he will conduct an impartial review to ensure all necessary steps are being taken to keep our democracy safe and uphold and strengthen confidence in it," said the prime minister in a news release.
Trudeau had signalled on Tuesday that the person named for this role—which he first announced last week—would be revealed soon.
"In this new role, Mr. Johnston will have a wide mandate to look into foreign interference in the last two federal general elections and make expert recommendations on how to further protect our democracy and uphold Canadians’ confidence in it," read the release from Trudeau's office.
"We will be working with Mr. Johnston to finalize his mandate in the coming days, and it will be made public."
In an interview on CTV News Channel's Power Play with Vassy Kapelos, Public Safety Minister Marco Mendicino extolled Johnston as someone who has "unimpeachable credentials and character."
