Justin Trudeau says he’s spoken with the Governor-General and confirmed his intention to form the next government.
Trudeau says he’s also asked Chrystia Freeland to continue as Deputy PM and Minister of Finance.
But he says getting through COVID-19 is his government’s current top priority.
“Our hearts go out to all folks who are dealing with extremely difficult situations because of this pandemic, because of this 4th wave,” he said.
Trudeau says he continues to urge vaccination across the country and will start by making it mandatory for Federal employees.
As well, anyone 12 or over who needs to travel on a plane or train needs to be vaccinated, a vaccine passport system will be set up for international travel and the Federal government will also reimburse Provinces for spending on vaccine certificates.
Anyone who harasses healthcare workers while at their duties or while they are on their way to work will face criminal charges.
Trudeau says he will be asking members to join his new cabinet in the coming weeks
Swearing-in of the cabinet will happen in October, he said and he plans to bring back Parliament by end of fall.
Photo via Justin Trudeau Twitter