How Parliament actually works

FromThe House

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How Parliament actually works

FromThe House

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Length:

49 minutes

Released:

Dec 30, 2023

Format:

Podcast episode

Description

Parliament can be confusing. Here to help is The House’s guided tour of Parliament, where you’ll hear politicians of all stripes answering some questions about how the place actually works.

Five Carleton political science students joined host Catherine Cullen to wander the halls and learn about everything from Question Period to committees, from the people who live in that world every day.

Released:

Dec 30, 2023

Format:

Podcast episode

Titles in the series (26)

The House is Canada's most popular political affairs show. Every Saturday the program takes you to Parliament Hill — and around the country — for in-depth coverage and analysis of the week’s major political news.

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Canada is an illegal fentanyl exporter. Wait, what?: It’s true. Fentanyl is not only killing Canadians — organized crime gangs are making it here and selling it abroad, the RCMP says. A senior RCMP official responsible for fighting organized crime talks about efforts to disrupt the deadly supply chain. The House also checks in on the Halifax Security Forum, an annual gathering of some of the top minds in foreign policy and defence to see how they’re trying to navigate what some are calling a global “polycrisis,” as well as issues around Russia and Taiwan. Plus, Prime Minister Justin Trudeau is picking his words carefully when it comes to the war between Israel and Hamas. Why did he change his tone somewhat this week — and what does it mean for his government? This episode features interviews with: - Mathieu Bertrand, RCMP chief superintendent of Serious and Organized Crime and Border Integrity - Comfort Ero, CEO, International Crisis Group - Evgenia Kara-Murza, Russian democratic a by The House
50 min listen
Alberta and Ottawa: It’s complicated: It’s rarely an easy ride with the Alberta-Ottawa relationship, and this rollercoaster week was no different. Starting with Alberta playing the sovereignty act card for the first time, then hugging it out over a big announcement … it may result soon in more fireworks over the emissions cap. The House breaks down what it all means for the federation. Then, a man who once advised former prime minister Stephen Harper on his approach to criminal justice talks about his about-face on the toxic drug crisis. Plus, the former head of this country’s spy agency breaks down the significance of a U.S. indictment alleging India is linked to multiple assassination plots — including three targets in Canada. This episode features interviews with: - Randy Boissonnault, Employment minister and Liberal MP - Tonda MacCharles, Toronto Star Ottawa bureau chief - Stuart Thomson, National Post Ottawa bureau chief - Benjamin Perrin, author and former Conservative advise by The House
51 min listen
Gaza immigration program sparks hope — and concern: A lot of questions surround the new special immigration program for some people stuck in Gaza: Why is Canada demanding such personal details? And can Canada actually get anyone out of the warzone, even if they’re approved to come here? The House will ask the immigration minister for answers. Plus, we’ll also dive deep into the issue of delays around family reunification programs. Small businesses are anxiously facing a deadline to repay some pandemic-era loans — and some are wishing that the federal government will show more compassion. Two business owners — and then the minister responsible — sit down to discuss. Finally, a bid by Florida to start bulk imports of Canadian prescription drugs has been described as a “raid” on this country’s drug supply. We’ll investigate how serious the threat is and what might happen next. This episode includes the voices of: - Marc Miller, federal immigration minister - Angela O’Brien and Sara A by The House
50 min listen
2023 was a wild one in politics. How much do you remember?: As another very busy and consequential year in Canadian politics wraps up, test how much you remember with our year-end quiz. This year, host Catherine Cullen will gather a crack team of political wonks to see how they fare. Murad Hemmadi of The Logic is back to defend his title of champion from last year, but he faces stiff competition from Shannon Proudfoot of The Globe and Mail and the National Post’s Christopher Nardi. by The House
42 min listen
How Parliament actually works: Parliament can be confusing. Here to help is The House’s guided tour of Parliament, where you’ll hear politicians of all stripes answering some questions about how the place actually works. Five Carleton political science students joined host Catherine Cullen to wander the halls and learn about everything from Question Period to committees, from the people who live in that world every day. by The House
49 min listen
Cap or no cap: The division over Canada’s latest climate policy: The federal government hopes it will put Canada on track to meeting its climate targets. Some provinces say it’s needlessly harmful. The House digs into Canada’s new proposed oil and gas emissions cap to find out what government, environmentalists and industry have to say. Then, we’ll analyze the Poilievre housing video that has re-energized the national conversation around housing — two experts on political communication will weigh in. And finally, the author of two books on the toxic drug crisis in the United States will join the program to talk about what’s going on south of the border, and what Canada can learn from the U.S. This episode features interviews with: - Jonathan Wilkinson, minister of energy and natural resources - Dale Beugin, executive vice president, Canadian Climate Institute - Tristan Goodman, president and CEO of the Explorers and Producers Association of Canada - Dave Sommer, vice president, by The House
50 min listen
'Asinine' red tape is still stalling home building: We don’t have to tell you that Canada is still mired in a housing affordability crisis. But will newly announced government measures make a dent? The House hears from someone trying to make affordable housing work in Ontario, and Toronto Mayor Olivia Chow weighs in on what she wants to see from the feds. The fiscal update this week also gave us a look at the state of Canada’s books, and the ballooning deficit. Two people who know the issue inside and out talk about what the new number means. The House also travels to the U.S. border to find out how the CBSA is fighting back against the importation of fentanyl and its precursor chemicals — with the help of some canine companions. This episode features interviews with: - Bruce Davis, development consultant - Olivia Chow, mayor of Toronto - Lenny Zhou, Vancouver city councillor - Robert Asselin, economist, Business Council of Canada - Kevin Page, economist, Institute of Fiscal Studi by The House
49 min listen
Canada calls for a ceasefire: After weeks of debate and political fighting, Canada has made a major vote in favour of a ceasefire in the Israel-Hamas war. The House digs into Canada’s position on the Israel-Hamas war, as well as the situation in Ukraine, in an interview with Defence Minister Bill Blair. We’ll also hear from a CBC reporter who had the chance to sit down with the head of Canada’s spy agency, which has had a challenging year. Plus — the issue of a complex and concerning scam that has seen homeowners pay out thousands of dollars over the years, and is now getting some attention from the Ontario government. Two Hill journalists will also talk about the fracas over House of Commons Speaker Greg Fergus and the question of whether he should resign — and what it all means about the state of politics right now. Finally, The House will take a look at the issue of rising food bank usage and the question of whether government aid can solve the problem. This episode features in by The House
49 min listen
$Canada calls for a ceasefire: After weeks of debate and political fighting, Canada has made a major vote in favour of a ceasefire in the Israel-Hamas war. The House digs into Canada’s position on the Israel-Hamas war, as well as the situation in Ukraine, in an interview with Defence Minister Bill Blair. We’ll also hear from a CBC reporter who had the chance to sit down with the head of Canada’s spy agency, which has had a challenging year. Plus — the issue of a complex and concerning scam that has seen homeowners pay out thousands of dollars over the years, and is now getting some attention from the Ontario government. Two Hill journalists will also talk about the fracas over House of Commons Speaker Greg Fergus and the question of whether he should resign — and what it all means about the state of politics right now. Finally, The House will take a look at the issue of rising food bank usage and the question of whether government aid can solve the problem. This episode features in$
Heartbreak and hope: Our special coverage of the toxic drug crisis: This week, The House brings you the most compelling interviews from this fall’s coverage of the toxic drug crisis: from recovering drug users, to mothers who’ve lost children to opioid overdoses, to law enforcement trying to keep up as politicians struggle for solutions. by The House
50 min listen
Canada's 'complicated dance' with China, and surviving Trump 2.0: Canada’s relationship with China has been tense for years. Can it be salvaged? And while diplomats are hard at work on that question, another major challenge looms: a potential second Trump term. The House tackles both those issues this week. Then, freezing cold temperatures have sparked a renewed conversation on how Canada will keep the lights on in the future. We take an in-depth look at what role nuclear energy might play. Plus — Canada’s political conversation is squarely focused on immigration and housing. Two journalists break down the political implications of this week’s developments. This episode features: - Jennifer May, Canada’s ambassador to China - Rob Goodman, political science professor and author - Laura Dawson, Executive Director, Future Borders Coalition - The CBC’s Emma Godmere - Stephanie Levitz, Toronto Star - Laura Osman, The Canadian Press by The House
53 min listen
Danielle Smith’s gender policies and the PM’s decrepit old house: Sweeping new rules on gender-related medical procedures, sex-ed and more have landed Alberta in the spotlight again this week. Two journalists break down the politics of Premier Danielle Smith’s controversial move. Then, the federal government announced a three-year delay on the expansion of medical assistance in dying to those suffering solely from a mental illness. The House hears from someone who is deeply affected by the decision, and from politicians on both sides of the issue. And — the prime minister’s traditional residence at 24 Sussex is in disrepair. But the organization responsible for maintaining the house says there’s been some progress — asbestos abated, mould removed and rodents evicted. But, as the CBC’s Jennifer Chevalier reports, there is no real plan for what comes next. Plus — B.C.'s public health officer releases her assessment of the province's prescribed safer supply program. The province’s mini by The House
49 min listen
Free birth control? A look at pharmacare's future: The Liberals and NDP are in intense negotiations over the shape of a pharmacare deal. At stake? The possibility of free birth control, diabetes medications or other drugs for Canadians. The House looks at what the policy could mean. But first, we break down Donald Trump’s comments about NATO, and what it could mean for the alliance. Then, too little government spending? Apparently, there’s an app for that. A reporter who has led the way on uncovering the story of ArriveCAN joins the program to break it all down. And it’s been 10 years since the Liberal Senators became just the Senate Liberals. That shift kickstarted Senate reform — but the chamber may be in store for yet more transformation. Plus — two MPs come together to talk about how they can co-operate across the aisle on cancer policy. This episode features the voices of:  < by The House
52 min listen
Must fix: auto theft, online harms and health care: A car was stolen in Canada every five minutes in 2022. Some Canadians are unlucky enough to have it happen to them multiple times — the federal justice minister, for instance. It’s a growing problem, and this week The House takes a look at how the Liberals and Conservatives are vying to present the best solution. Then, a year after a major national summit on health care, has the state of the system improved? The head of one of Canada’s most important health associations says there’s still a lot of work to do. Plus — potential legislation on online harms has long been in the works, and there are certainly plenty of issues to tackle. Two experts break down the dizzying array of digital problems that require attention. This episode features the voices of: - Public Safety Minister Dominic LeBlanc - Joël-Denis Bellavance, LaPresse - Stephanie Taylor, The Canadian Press - Dr. Kathleen Ross, president, Canadian Medical Association - Heal by The House
48 min listen
Emergencies Act pushback, Tucker Carlson in Alberta, and farewell to Ed Broadbent: If you thought you’d heard the end of convoy politics, think again. The federal government’s argument that it was justified in using the Emergencies Act to dispel the convoy protests in early 2022 was dealt a blow this week. We speak with the former attorney general who helped invoke the act — and find out why he’s now leaving politics. Then, two journalists dissect the politics of Tucker Carlson’s controversial tour of Alberta, where he sat down with Premier Danielle Smith. We’ll also take a look at the government’s decision to cap study permits for international students — and the waves that will make in both the education community and provincial economies. Plus — Ed Broadbent’s death has sparked some reflection over the NDP’s past, present and future. Two party strategists sit down to discuss where the party goes from here. This episode features the voices of: - David Lametti, Liberal MP and fo by The House
54 min listen
How Brian Mulroney’s years in power — and countless phone calls — changed Canada: Brian Mulroney will leave a legacy as one of Canada’s most consequential prime ministers, who in a time of great global change also transformed Canadian politics. The House digs deep on Mulroney’s legacy, hearing from a former prime minister, senior Conservatives and politicians from across the political spectrum. Then, two national security experts explain what we learned from digging through hundreds of pages of documents surrounding the firing of two scientists from a major infectious diseases lab in Canada. Plus — an analysis of the government’s new legislation meant to help protect Canadians from harmful content online. This episode features the voices of:  <ul><li>Joe Clark, former prime minister</li><li>Erin O’Toole, former Conservative leader </li><li>John Baird, former Conservative minister </li><li>Dan Stanton, fo by The House
57 min listen
Death threats, intimidation and assault — all this for baby eels?: It sounds surprising, but baby eels, or elvers, have become big business in Canada. And along with the profits have come poachers — and some serious threats. The House digs into why the government is convinced they need to shut the whole thing down. But first: It’s been two years since Russia launched its full-scale invasion of Ukraine. The war is still going, but has Canada’s attention wavered? Ukraine’s ambassador to Canada discusses that question and more. Plus — the federal international development minister weighs in on the question of how best to provide aid to Palestinians in Gaza, as the war between Israel and Hamas continues. This episode features the voices of:  <ul><li>Yulia Kovaliv, Ukrainian ambassador to Canada </li><li>Ahmed Hussen, minister of international development </li><li>Matt Delong, commercial elver fisher</li><li> by The House
50 min listen
What actually happens on Parliament Hill?: Let’s face it: politics doesn’t have a great reputation. It can be frustrating — especially when it feels like you don’t really know what’s going on. On this special edition of The House, host Catherine Cullen takes you inside the halls of Parliament Hill to better understand how the place actually works. She’s joined by five Carleton University students who pitch their burning questions to members of Parliament, including Lori Idlout, Gerard Deltell, John McKay, Peter Julian, Ali Ehsassi, and more. by The House
49 min listen
Is the carbon tax toast?: It’s certainly feeling the heat. The Liberal government’s landmark climate policy, the carbon tax, has long been the target of the opposition Conservatives’ ire. But the Conservatives have allies, now — provincial premiers chief among them. The House hears from former premiers Jason Kenney and Kathleen Wynne about what’s gone wrong with the policy and how best to move forward. Then, we’ll also investigate an alternative energy source that is making waves in Newfoundland. And two keen-eyed journalists will break down a very busy week back on the Hill, featuring everything from tension over the Israel-Hamas war to scaling back the number of temporary foreign workers in Canada. Plus — two political history experts will break down Brian Mulroney’s legacy, ahead of his state funeral Saturday. This episode features the voices of:  <ul><li>Jason Kenney, former Alberta premier&nb by The House
48 min listen
The real dirt on the Liberals’ two-billion-tree pledge: The federal government has promised to plant two billion trees by 2031 as part of the fight against climate change. But it’s not quite going to plan. This special edition of The House digs into the real-world challenges of planting so many trees — and whether the promise can live up to the hype. Host Catherine Cullen visits a seed orchard to speak with Kerry McLaven, CEO of the Forest Gene Conservation Association, about how many seeds will be needed — and why it’s so hard to get them. Then, The House travels to Somerville Nurseries, where manager Brent Forbes shows us his extensive operation, and Rob Keen of the Canadian Tree Nursery Association underscores the need for a long-term approach to tree planting. Plus, Doug Hevenor of the Nottawasaga Valley Conservation Authority explains the challenges around finding land and Susan Antler< by The House
49 min listen
Funding UNRWA, prepping for natural disasters and foreign influence in... video games?: The federal government changed course on funding for a key agency helping Palestinians in Gaza, saying the humanitarian crisis there was increasingly dire. Canada’s ambassador to the United Nations, Bob Rae, talks about that decision. Then, we break down how ready Canada is for both military operations and natural disasters. The answer? The armed forces are struggling, and there’s more work to do when it comes to things like wildfires. We’ll also take a look at why the government announced it’s going to keep a close eye on foreign investments in the video game industry — with foreign interference in mind. Plus — British political activist Lady Phyll sits down to discuss anti-gay laws across the globe and what the Commonwealth should be doing about them. This episode features the voices of:  <ul><li>Bob Rae, Can by The House
51 min listen
Trudeau's pre-budget extravaganza, and what a post-axe-the-tax Canada might look like: We’ve already had a few glimpses at the next federal budget, thanks to a flurry of announcements this week and last. The finance minister joins The House to talk about those pledges and what more to expect. Then, it’s clear that Pierre Poilievre hates the carbon tax. But if the Conservatives gain power, what will they do instead? Two experts sit down to discuss. And — 75 years after the founding of NATO, is the alliance ready for a second Trump term? The House speaks to representatives from some of Canada’s most important allies. Plus — the CBC’s expert foreign interference inquiry watcher walks us through what exactly happened in the hearing room this week. This episode features the voices of: <ul><li>Deputy Prime Minister and Finance Minister Chrystia Freeland</li><li>Michael Bernstein, executive director, Clean Pr by The House
50 min listen
Get off my lawn! The fed-prov home building battle: Everyone agrees that Canada has a housing crisis, but coming to consensus — and executing on — solutions is not quite so easy. Alberta looked to put up a wall between the federal government and municipalities this week, and Premier Danielle Smith joins The House to talk about why. Then, the federal housing minister responds. The public inquiry into foreign interference in Canadian elections also had some big-name witnesses this week — not least the prime minister. Canada’s former top spy sits down to walk through what we learned. Plus — some of the top movers and shakers from the Canadian political right gathered in Ottawa for a conference this week. Two journalists break down what they focused on, and what it could mean for a future Conservative government. This episode features the voices of:  <ul><li>Alberta Premier Danielle Smith </li><li>Housing Ministe by The House
49 min listen
Trash talking: High-stakes UN plastics negotiations unfold in Ottawa: There’s a lot of garbage talk happening in the nation’s capital, as representatives from 176 countries try to hammer out a global deal on plastic pollution — one of the planet’s most significant and growing environmental issues. We speak with some of the participants at the conference — from officials, to advocates, to industry members — about the stakes of the negotiations and the odds of success. But first: The federal government, Ontario government and Honda came to a major agreement this week that will see billions of dollars worth of investment poured into new EV manufacturing facilities in this country. The minister responsible talks about why it’s worth taxpayer dollars, then Honda’s head in Canada discusses the road ahead for electric vehicles — and the jobs that come with them. This episode features the voices of:  <ul><li>Industry Minister François-Phi by The House
50 min listen
A new tax on the rich, a long awaited pipeline, and a crisis in sports betting: It may sound boring, it might be confusing, but the federal government’s new capital gains tax change could just become a major political sticking point. The House hears from tax experts and others about what the change could accomplish and whether everyday Canadians might be affected.  Then, the federal budget unveiled this week failed to meet the moment when it comes to a new disability benefit, an advocate tells The House. A Liberal official also joins the program to respond. Plus — six years and tens of billions of dollars later, the Trans Mountain expansion is about to begin operation. In a special report, The House investigates how communities along the mega-project’s route feel now that oil is finally set to flow. Finally: The lifetime ban handed out to Raptors player Jontay Porter is raising questions about legal gambling’s influence on the by The House
50 min listen
Alleged hit squad arrested, and chaos in the House: A dramatic development in a shocking case: police on Friday arrested three men in connection with the killing of the pro-Khalistan activist Hardeep Singh Nijjar. We’ll break down what led to the arrest and what we know so far. The public safety minister also joins the program to discuss the situation, as well as the foreign interference inquiry’s first report. Then, two of Ottawa’s keenest Hill-watchers break down a wild week in the House of Commons, which featured more than its fair share of theatrics. Politicians were fighting over B.C. drug decriminalization policy, which the province is looking to partially roll back. The co-founder of an anti-overdose advocacy group, and a Richmond, B.C. city councillor, both discuss that proposal. Finally, Pierre Poilievre suggested this week that he’d use the notwithstanding clause to pass some criminal justice reforms if he’s elected prime by The House
50 min listen
Abortion, drug decriminalization dominate the political discussion: Conservatives this week hammered the government on drug decriminalization, but Liberals countered with another hot-button issue: abortion. The House digs into both of those issues, hearing from an addictions doctor about what the heated political rhetoric means for people on the ground, and then weighing whether the Liberals’ claims on reproductive rights have any substance. Then, we’ll sit down with Canada’s top diplomat in Moscow for her first interview since taking on that role. She says Canada-Russia relations might never have been worse — we ask what it’s like dealing with Putin’s regime. Plus, Canada Post is losing money — a lot of it. Two experts sit down to talk through the options for saving, selling or changing the postal service. This episode features the voices of:  <ul><li>Dr. Vincent Lam, addictions doctor and author</li><li>Shachi K by The House
50 min listen

More Episodes from The House

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Abortion, drug decriminalization dominate the political discussion: Conservatives this week hammered the government on drug decriminalization, but Liberals countered with another hot-button issue: abortion. The House digs into both of those issues, hearing from an addictions doctor about what the heated political rhetoric means for people on the ground, and then weighing whether the Liberals’ claims on reproductive rights have any substance. Then, we’ll sit down with Canada’s top diplomat in Moscow for her first interview since taking on that role. She says Canada-Russia relations might never have been worse — we ask what it’s like dealing with Putin’s regime. Plus, Canada Post is losing money — a lot of it. Two experts sit down to talk through the options for saving, selling or changing the postal service. This episode features the voices of:  <ul><li>Dr. Vincent Lam, addictions doctor and author</li><li>Shachi K by The House
50 min listen
Alleged hit squad arrested, and chaos in the House: A dramatic development in a shocking case: police on Friday arrested three men in connection with the killing of the pro-Khalistan activist Hardeep Singh Nijjar. We’ll break down what led to the arrest and what we know so far. The public safety minister also joins the program to discuss the situation, as well as the foreign interference inquiry’s first report. Then, two of Ottawa’s keenest Hill-watchers break down a wild week in the House of Commons, which featured more than its fair share of theatrics. Politicians were fighting over B.C. drug decriminalization policy, which the province is looking to partially roll back. The co-founder of an anti-overdose advocacy group, and a Richmond, B.C. city councillor, both discuss that proposal. Finally, Pierre Poilievre suggested this week that he’d use the notwithstanding clause to pass some criminal justice reforms if he’s elected prime by The House
50 min listen
Trash talking: High-stakes UN plastics negotiations unfold in Ottawa: There’s a lot of garbage talk happening in the nation’s capital, as representatives from 176 countries try to hammer out a global deal on plastic pollution — one of the planet’s most significant and growing environmental issues. We speak with some of the participants at the conference — from officials, to advocates, to industry members — about the stakes of the negotiations and the odds of success. But first: The federal government, Ontario government and Honda came to a major agreement this week that will see billions of dollars worth of investment poured into new EV manufacturing facilities in this country. The minister responsible talks about why it’s worth taxpayer dollars, then Honda’s head in Canada discusses the road ahead for electric vehicles — and the jobs that come with them. This episode features the voices of:  <ul><li>Industry Minister François-Phi by The House
50 min listen
A new tax on the rich, a long awaited pipeline, and a crisis in sports betting: It may sound boring, it might be confusing, but the federal government’s new capital gains tax change could just become a major political sticking point. The House hears from tax experts and others about what the change could accomplish and whether everyday Canadians might be affected.  Then, the federal budget unveiled this week failed to meet the moment when it comes to a new disability benefit, an advocate tells The House. A Liberal official also joins the program to respond. Plus — six years and tens of billions of dollars later, the Trans Mountain expansion is about to begin operation. In a special report, The House investigates how communities along the mega-project’s route feel now that oil is finally set to flow. Finally: The lifetime ban handed out to Raptors player Jontay Porter is raising questions about legal gambling’s influence on the by The House
50 min listen
Get off my lawn! The fed-prov home building battle: Everyone agrees that Canada has a housing crisis, but coming to consensus — and executing on — solutions is not quite so easy. Alberta looked to put up a wall between the federal government and municipalities this week, and Premier Danielle Smith joins The House to talk about why. Then, the federal housing minister responds. The public inquiry into foreign interference in Canadian elections also had some big-name witnesses this week — not least the prime minister. Canada’s former top spy sits down to walk through what we learned. Plus — some of the top movers and shakers from the Canadian political right gathered in Ottawa for a conference this week. Two journalists break down what they focused on, and what it could mean for a future Conservative government. This episode features the voices of:  <ul><li>Alberta Premier Danielle Smith </li><li>Housing Ministe by The House
49 min listen
Trudeau's pre-budget extravaganza, and what a post-axe-the-tax Canada might look like: We’ve already had a few glimpses at the next federal budget, thanks to a flurry of announcements this week and last. The finance minister joins The House to talk about those pledges and what more to expect. Then, it’s clear that Pierre Poilievre hates the carbon tax. But if the Conservatives gain power, what will they do instead? Two experts sit down to discuss. And — 75 years after the founding of NATO, is the alliance ready for a second Trump term? The House speaks to representatives from some of Canada’s most important allies. Plus — the CBC’s expert foreign interference inquiry watcher walks us through what exactly happened in the hearing room this week. This episode features the voices of: <ul><li>Deputy Prime Minister and Finance Minister Chrystia Freeland</li><li>Michael Bernstein, executive director, Clean Pr by The House
50 min listen
The real dirt on the Liberals’ two-billion-tree pledge: The federal government has promised to plant two billion trees by 2031 as part of the fight against climate change. But it’s not quite going to plan. This special edition of The House digs into the real-world challenges of planting so many trees — and whether the promise can live up to the hype. Host Catherine Cullen visits a seed orchard to speak with Kerry McLaven, CEO of the Forest Gene Conservation Association, about how many seeds will be needed — and why it’s so hard to get them. Then, The House travels to Somerville Nurseries, where manager Brent Forbes shows us his extensive operation, and Rob Keen of the Canadian Tree Nursery Association underscores the need for a long-term approach to tree planting. Plus, Doug Hevenor of the Nottawasaga Valley Conservation Authority explains the challenges around finding land and Susan Antler< by The House
49 min listen
Is the carbon tax toast?: It’s certainly feeling the heat. The Liberal government’s landmark climate policy, the carbon tax, has long been the target of the opposition Conservatives’ ire. But the Conservatives have allies, now — provincial premiers chief among them. The House hears from former premiers Jason Kenney and Kathleen Wynne about what’s gone wrong with the policy and how best to move forward. Then, we’ll also investigate an alternative energy source that is making waves in Newfoundland. And two keen-eyed journalists will break down a very busy week back on the Hill, featuring everything from tension over the Israel-Hamas war to scaling back the number of temporary foreign workers in Canada. Plus — two political history experts will break down Brian Mulroney’s legacy, ahead of his state funeral Saturday. This episode features the voices of:  <ul><li>Jason Kenney, former Alberta premier&nb by The House
48 min listen
What actually happens on Parliament Hill?: Let’s face it: politics doesn’t have a great reputation. It can be frustrating — especially when it feels like you don’t really know what’s going on. On this special edition of The House, host Catherine Cullen takes you inside the halls of Parliament Hill to better understand how the place actually works. She’s joined by five Carleton University students who pitch their burning questions to members of Parliament, including Lori Idlout, Gerard Deltell, John McKay, Peter Julian, Ali Ehsassi, and more. by The House
49 min listen
Funding UNRWA, prepping for natural disasters and foreign influence in... video games?: The federal government changed course on funding for a key agency helping Palestinians in Gaza, saying the humanitarian crisis there was increasingly dire. Canada’s ambassador to the United Nations, Bob Rae, talks about that decision. Then, we break down how ready Canada is for both military operations and natural disasters. The answer? The armed forces are struggling, and there’s more work to do when it comes to things like wildfires. We’ll also take a look at why the government announced it’s going to keep a close eye on foreign investments in the video game industry — with foreign interference in mind. Plus — British political activist Lady Phyll sits down to discuss anti-gay laws across the globe and what the Commonwealth should be doing about them. This episode features the voices of:  <ul><li>Bob Rae, Can by The House
51 min listen
How Brian Mulroney’s years in power — and countless phone calls — changed Canada: Brian Mulroney will leave a legacy as one of Canada’s most consequential prime ministers, who in a time of great global change also transformed Canadian politics. The House digs deep on Mulroney’s legacy, hearing from a former prime minister, senior Conservatives and politicians from across the political spectrum. Then, two national security experts explain what we learned from digging through hundreds of pages of documents surrounding the firing of two scientists from a major infectious diseases lab in Canada. Plus — an analysis of the government’s new legislation meant to help protect Canadians from harmful content online. This episode features the voices of:  <ul><li>Joe Clark, former prime minister</li><li>Erin O’Toole, former Conservative leader </li><li>John Baird, former Conservative minister </li><li>Dan Stanton, fo by The House
57 min listen
Death threats, intimidation and assault — all this for baby eels?: It sounds surprising, but baby eels, or elvers, have become big business in Canada. And along with the profits have come poachers — and some serious threats. The House digs into why the government is convinced they need to shut the whole thing down. But first: It’s been two years since Russia launched its full-scale invasion of Ukraine. The war is still going, but has Canada’s attention wavered? Ukraine’s ambassador to Canada discusses that question and more. Plus — the federal international development minister weighs in on the question of how best to provide aid to Palestinians in Gaza, as the war between Israel and Hamas continues. This episode features the voices of:  <ul><li>Yulia Kovaliv, Ukrainian ambassador to Canada </li><li>Ahmed Hussen, minister of international development </li><li>Matt Delong, commercial elver fisher</li><li> by The House
50 min listen
Free birth control? A look at pharmacare's future: The Liberals and NDP are in intense negotiations over the shape of a pharmacare deal. At stake? The possibility of free birth control, diabetes medications or other drugs for Canadians. The House looks at what the policy could mean. But first, we break down Donald Trump’s comments about NATO, and what it could mean for the alliance. Then, too little government spending? Apparently, there’s an app for that. A reporter who has led the way on uncovering the story of ArriveCAN joins the program to break it all down. And it’s been 10 years since the Liberal Senators became just the Senate Liberals. That shift kickstarted Senate reform — but the chamber may be in store for yet more transformation. Plus — two MPs come together to talk about how they can co-operate across the aisle on cancer policy. This episode features the voices of:  < by The House
52 min listen
Must fix: auto theft, online harms and health care: A car was stolen in Canada every five minutes in 2022. Some Canadians are unlucky enough to have it happen to them multiple times — the federal justice minister, for instance. It’s a growing problem, and this week The House takes a look at how the Liberals and Conservatives are vying to present the best solution. Then, a year after a major national summit on health care, has the state of the system improved? The head of one of Canada’s most important health associations says there’s still a lot of work to do. Plus — potential legislation on online harms has long been in the works, and there are certainly plenty of issues to tackle. Two experts break down the dizzying array of digital problems that require attention. This episode features the voices of: - Public Safety Minister Dominic LeBlanc - Joël-Denis Bellavance, LaPresse - Stephanie Taylor, The Canadian Press - Dr. Kathleen Ross, president, Canadian Medical Association - Heal by The House
48 min listen
Danielle Smith’s gender policies and the PM’s decrepit old house: Sweeping new rules on gender-related medical procedures, sex-ed and more have landed Alberta in the spotlight again this week. Two journalists break down the politics of Premier Danielle Smith’s controversial move. Then, the federal government announced a three-year delay on the expansion of medical assistance in dying to those suffering solely from a mental illness. The House hears from someone who is deeply affected by the decision, and from politicians on both sides of the issue. And — the prime minister’s traditional residence at 24 Sussex is in disrepair. But the organization responsible for maintaining the house says there’s been some progress — asbestos abated, mould removed and rodents evicted. But, as the CBC’s Jennifer Chevalier reports, there is no real plan for what comes next. Plus — B.C.'s public health officer releases her assessment of the province's prescribed safer supply program. The province’s mini by The House
49 min listen
Emergencies Act pushback, Tucker Carlson in Alberta, and farewell to Ed Broadbent: If you thought you’d heard the end of convoy politics, think again. The federal government’s argument that it was justified in using the Emergencies Act to dispel the convoy protests in early 2022 was dealt a blow this week. We speak with the former attorney general who helped invoke the act — and find out why he’s now leaving politics. Then, two journalists dissect the politics of Tucker Carlson’s controversial tour of Alberta, where he sat down with Premier Danielle Smith. We’ll also take a look at the government’s decision to cap study permits for international students — and the waves that will make in both the education community and provincial economies. Plus — Ed Broadbent’s death has sparked some reflection over the NDP’s past, present and future. Two party strategists sit down to discuss where the party goes from here. This episode features the voices of: - David Lametti, Liberal MP and fo by The House
54 min listen
Canada's 'complicated dance' with China, and surviving Trump 2.0: Canada’s relationship with China has been tense for years. Can it be salvaged? And while diplomats are hard at work on that question, another major challenge looms: a potential second Trump term. The House tackles both those issues this week. Then, freezing cold temperatures have sparked a renewed conversation on how Canada will keep the lights on in the future. We take an in-depth look at what role nuclear energy might play. Plus — Canada’s political conversation is squarely focused on immigration and housing. Two journalists break down the political implications of this week’s developments. This episode features: - Jennifer May, Canada’s ambassador to China - Rob Goodman, political science professor and author - Laura Dawson, Executive Director, Future Borders Coalition - The CBC’s Emma Godmere - Stephanie Levitz, Toronto Star - Laura Osman, The Canadian Press by The House
53 min listen
Gaza immigration program sparks hope — and concern: A lot of questions surround the new special immigration program for some people stuck in Gaza: Why is Canada demanding such personal details? And can Canada actually get anyone out of the warzone, even if they’re approved to come here? The House will ask the immigration minister for answers. Plus, we’ll also dive deep into the issue of delays around family reunification programs. Small businesses are anxiously facing a deadline to repay some pandemic-era loans — and some are wishing that the federal government will show more compassion. Two business owners — and then the minister responsible — sit down to discuss. Finally, a bid by Florida to start bulk imports of Canadian prescription drugs has been described as a “raid” on this country’s drug supply. We’ll investigate how serious the threat is and what might happen next. This episode includes the voices of: - Marc Miller, federal immigration minister - Angela O’Brien and Sara A by The House
50 min listen
Heartbreak and hope: Our special coverage of the toxic drug crisis: This week, The House brings you the most compelling interviews from this fall’s coverage of the toxic drug crisis: from recovering drug users, to mothers who’ve lost children to opioid overdoses, to law enforcement trying to keep up as politicians struggle for solutions. by The House
50 min listen
2023 was a wild one in politics. How much do you remember?: As another very busy and consequential year in Canadian politics wraps up, test how much you remember with our year-end quiz. This year, host Catherine Cullen will gather a crack team of political wonks to see how they fare. Murad Hemmadi of The Logic is back to defend his title of champion from last year, but he faces stiff competition from Shannon Proudfoot of The Globe and Mail and the National Post’s Christopher Nardi. by The House
42 min listen
Canada calls for a ceasefire: After weeks of debate and political fighting, Canada has made a major vote in favour of a ceasefire in the Israel-Hamas war. The House digs into Canada’s position on the Israel-Hamas war, as well as the situation in Ukraine, in an interview with Defence Minister Bill Blair. We’ll also hear from a CBC reporter who had the chance to sit down with the head of Canada’s spy agency, which has had a challenging year. Plus — the issue of a complex and concerning scam that has seen homeowners pay out thousands of dollars over the years, and is now getting some attention from the Ontario government. Two Hill journalists will also talk about the fracas over House of Commons Speaker Greg Fergus and the question of whether he should resign — and what it all means about the state of politics right now. Finally, The House will take a look at the issue of rising food bank usage and the question of whether government aid can solve the problem. This episode features in by The House
49 min listen
$Canada calls for a ceasefire: After weeks of debate and political fighting, Canada has made a major vote in favour of a ceasefire in the Israel-Hamas war. The House digs into Canada’s position on the Israel-Hamas war, as well as the situation in Ukraine, in an interview with Defence Minister Bill Blair. We’ll also hear from a CBC reporter who had the chance to sit down with the head of Canada’s spy agency, which has had a challenging year. Plus — the issue of a complex and concerning scam that has seen homeowners pay out thousands of dollars over the years, and is now getting some attention from the Ontario government. Two Hill journalists will also talk about the fracas over House of Commons Speaker Greg Fergus and the question of whether he should resign — and what it all means about the state of politics right now. Finally, The House will take a look at the issue of rising food bank usage and the question of whether government aid can solve the problem. This episode features in$
Cap or no cap: The division over Canada’s latest climate policy: The federal government hopes it will put Canada on track to meeting its climate targets. Some provinces say it’s needlessly harmful. The House digs into Canada’s new proposed oil and gas emissions cap to find out what government, environmentalists and industry have to say. Then, we’ll analyze the Poilievre housing video that has re-energized the national conversation around housing — two experts on political communication will weigh in. And finally, the author of two books on the toxic drug crisis in the United States will join the program to talk about what’s going on south of the border, and what Canada can learn from the U.S. This episode features interviews with: - Jonathan Wilkinson, minister of energy and natural resources - Dale Beugin, executive vice president, Canadian Climate Institute - Tristan Goodman, president and CEO of the Explorers and Producers Association of Canada - Dave Sommer, vice president, by The House
50 min listen
Alberta and Ottawa: It’s complicated: It’s rarely an easy ride with the Alberta-Ottawa relationship, and this rollercoaster week was no different. Starting with Alberta playing the sovereignty act card for the first time, then hugging it out over a big announcement … it may result soon in more fireworks over the emissions cap. The House breaks down what it all means for the federation. Then, a man who once advised former prime minister Stephen Harper on his approach to criminal justice talks about his about-face on the toxic drug crisis. Plus, the former head of this country’s spy agency breaks down the significance of a U.S. indictment alleging India is linked to multiple assassination plots — including three targets in Canada. This episode features interviews with: - Randy Boissonnault, Employment minister and Liberal MP - Tonda MacCharles, Toronto Star Ottawa bureau chief - Stuart Thomson, National Post Ottawa bureau chief - Benjamin Perrin, author and former Conservative advise by The House
51 min listen
'Asinine' red tape is still stalling home building: We don’t have to tell you that Canada is still mired in a housing affordability crisis. But will newly announced government measures make a dent? The House hears from someone trying to make affordable housing work in Ontario, and Toronto Mayor Olivia Chow weighs in on what she wants to see from the feds. The fiscal update this week also gave us a look at the state of Canada’s books, and the ballooning deficit. Two people who know the issue inside and out talk about what the new number means. The House also travels to the U.S. border to find out how the CBSA is fighting back against the importation of fentanyl and its precursor chemicals — with the help of some canine companions. This episode features interviews with: - Bruce Davis, development consultant - Olivia Chow, mayor of Toronto - Lenny Zhou, Vancouver city councillor - Robert Asselin, economist, Business Council of Canada - Kevin Page, economist, Institute of Fiscal Studi by The House
49 min listen
Canada is an illegal fentanyl exporter. Wait, what?: It’s true. Fentanyl is not only killing Canadians — organized crime gangs are making it here and selling it abroad, the RCMP says. A senior RCMP official responsible for fighting organized crime talks about efforts to disrupt the deadly supply chain. The House also checks in on the Halifax Security Forum, an annual gathering of some of the top minds in foreign policy and defence to see how they’re trying to navigate what some are calling a global “polycrisis,” as well as issues around Russia and Taiwan. Plus, Prime Minister Justin Trudeau is picking his words carefully when it comes to the war between Israel and Hamas. Why did he change his tone somewhat this week — and what does it mean for his government? This episode features interviews with: - Mathieu Bertrand, RCMP chief superintendent of Serious and Organized Crime and Border Integrity - Comfort Ero, CEO, International Crisis Group - Evgenia Kara-Murza, Russian democratic a by The House
50 min listen

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