OTTAWA – The Green Party of Canada reaffirms its commitment to transparency and freedom of the press following the Conservative Party’s decision to exclude journalists from its election campaign trail.
The Conservative Party’s long history of obstructing the free press continues. This pattern of contempt began under Stephen Harper and today it is practised by his protégé, Pierre Poilievre.
“This has not been a good week for the press,” said Green Party Co-Leader Jonathan Pedneault. “As a former journalist, I’m appalled. A few days ago, the Prime Minister lectured journalists on how to do their jobs, and now the leader of the Official Opposition won’t let them ride the campaign bus. Canadians must wonder what they’re hiding.”
At a time when authoritarianism is rising globally, restricting media access is a troubling sign. Controlling the press is a well-documented tactic used by autocratic leaders to weaken democratic institutions. The Green Party of Canada believes that now, more than ever, political parties must uphold traditions that promote democratic deliberation. Providing journalists with access to campaign events, including transportation on campaign planes and buses, is one such crucial tradition.
“Democracy cannot function without a free press,” said Green Party Co-Leader Elizabeth May. “When political leaders actively avoid scrutiny, it should alarm every Canadian. The Green Party has always been open and accessible to the media, and we will continue to lead by example.”
Beyond this immediate concern, Canada faces a systemic problem with its news media landscape. An unhealthy concentration of media ownership has limited the diversity of voices in journalism. That is why Green MPs have long advocated for an independent commission to study media concentration in Canada, compare it to other western nations, and recommend policies to ensure a more independent, diverse, and robust press—particularly for local news.
The Green Party of Canada will continue to champion a free and unfettered press. As we launch our carbon-neutral campaign, we welcome journalists aboard to ensure Canadians receive fair and accurate reporting throughout the election.
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For more information or to arrange an interview :
Fabrice Lachance Nové
Press secretary
514-463-0021
Rod Legget
Senior Advisor, Strategic Communications
613-203-1524