Conservative Leader Erin O’Toole says that his caucus has agreed to “respect and abide by” the new rules mandating vaccination in the House of Commons, but his party will be challenging the policy.
The Hon. Erin O’Toole, Leader of Canada’s Conservatives and the Official Opposition, issued the following statement on the participation of Conservative Members in Parliament:
“Since becoming Conservative Leader a year ago, I have always said vaccines are the safest and most effective way to reduce the spread of COVID-19 and prevent serious illness. I encourage every Canadian to get vaccinated.
“There never should have been a pandemic election, and unlike Justin Trudeau, Conservatives abided by all public health guidelines during the campaign. Justin Trudeau should frankly be ashamed of himself for politicizing vaccines and dividing Canadians.
“Today, the Conservative Caucus met. I put forward a plan and the Caucus agreed to respect and abide by new rules which require Parliamentarians attending in the House of Commons and Senate to be vaccinated.
“At the earliest opportunity, a question of privilege will be raised in the House of Commons to challenge the improper conduct and precedent set by the Board of Internal Economy in their meeting on Oct. 19th.
“Only the House of Commons itself can determine its composition and conduct. Both before the Speaker or House rules, and after they rule, the entire Conservative Caucus will respect and abide by the rules and all health guidance.”