NDP Leader Jagmeet Singh Ends Confidence Agreement with Liberals

OTTAWA — NDP leader Jagmeet Singh announced today his party’s decision to withdraw from the confidence and supply agreement with Prime Minister Justin Trudeau’s Liberal government. This development creates a possibility for a fall election.

The agreement, which was established in March 2022, was scheduled to remain in effect until June of the following year. It has allowed the Liberals to effectively govern in a minority position for nearly three years, surpassing the average duration for minority governments.

S.Jagmeet Singh has expressed strong criticism towards the Liberals following their recent actions to refer a labor dispute involving rail workers to binding arbitration after a brief strike. In a video message shared online, Singh articulated that the interests of working Canadians are not adequately represented by the current government.

“Canadians are fighting a battle for the future of the middle class. Justin Trudeau has repeatedly shown that he capitulates to corporate interests. The Liberals have let Canadians down and do not warrant another opportunity,” he stated.

In recent national polls, the Conservative Party has maintained a significant lead, ahead by approximately 20 percent. Meanwhile, the NDP has been polling in third place with predictions of losing some of their 24 seats in the House of Commons. Despite this, Singh asserted that his party is best positioned to oppose Conservative policies.

“In the upcoming federal election, Canadians will face a choice between Pierre Poilievre’s harmful austerity measures and the hope that arises from unity and collaboration,” Singh added, emphasizing the potential for success through collective effort.

Responding to Singh’s announcement, Prime Minister Trudeau highlighted the achievements that have been made under the agreement, such as the implementation of valuable programs including dental care. Trudeau reaffirmed his commitment to continue focusing on delivering these initiatives rather than becoming entangled in political maneuvering.

Trudeau expressed, “I sincerely hope that the NDP will prioritize how we can continue delivering for Canadians, much like we have over the past years.”

In a letter, Conservative Leader Pierre Poilievre has criticized Singh, suggesting that he is only withdrawing from the deal to secure a pension as a Member of Parliament. Poilievre urged Singh to vote non-confidence against the government, positioning it as an opportunity to force an election.

It was noted that while the NDP’s decision to exit the agreement does not automatically lead to an election, the possibility remains for the Liberals to seek support from the NDP or other opposition parties on a case-by-case basis.

Soon, Singh is scheduled to convene with his caucus in Montreal as the party gears up for forthcoming byelections in Winnipeg and Montreal, reflecting their strategic planning for the parliamentary agenda ahead.