Original Publish Date » April 11 , 2025
Last Updated » 1 week
Jim Bronskill / The Canadian Press » A newly released memo shows federal officials recommended almost a year ago that leaders of major opposition parties receive regular classified briefings — not only on foreign interference but also violent extremism and overseas conflicts.
The internal memo says the proposed briefings, to be co-ordinated by the Privy Council Office, would ensure security-cleared leaders, as well as designated alternates, are offered an “intelligence-informed understanding” of the threats facing Canadians.
It comes as Conservative Leader Pierre Poilievre continues to face questions on the campaign trail about his refusal to seek the top secret-level clearance necessary to receive such briefings.
The May 10, 2024, memo to then-prime minister Justin Trudeau from national security and intelligence adviser Nathalie Drouin says the briefings would take place under a protocol drafted by the PCO.
