There were no elections on the federal scene, but we can’t say that the last year was flat: “freedom convoy” in Ottawa, leadership race in the Conservative Party of Canada and inflation.
To end the year, here are my three stars in Ottawa:
Pascale St-Onge
Photo archives, QMI Agency
As Minister of Sports, Pascale St-Onge shone in the file of scandals surrounding Hockey Canada. She responded with aplomb and managed to stand out from her colleagues in the Council of Ministers. Clearly, his strong reaction forced the hand of the administrators of Hockey Canada, who had no choice but to give up their place. Now we have to see if the federation that governs our national sport will be able to get back on the right track. Without a doubt, the Hockey Canada file will keep Minister St-Onge busy over the next year.
Francois-Philippe Champagne
ARCHIVE PHOTO, QMI AGENCY
The Minister of Industry, Innovation and Science is an effective politician who works tirelessly. Mr. Champagne has a clear vision of innovation and the development of the Canadian economy. In 2022, he will have achieved a masterstroke by concluding an agreement for Moderna to settle on Canadian soil and by carrying out several partnerships in the battery sector. Moreover, Minister Champagne did not embarrass his government, unlike several of his colleagues. The organizers of the Liberal Party of Quebec no doubt dream of recruiting a François-Philippe Champagne. Unfortunately for them, it seems that Mr. Champagne wants to stay at the federal level to perhaps replace Justin Trudeau one day.
Pierre Poilievre
We cannot ignore the resounding victory of Pierre Poilievre on September 10th. With 68.15% of the points, he literally crushed the competition. We must also recognize the colossal work of Mr. Poilievre’s team in recruiting new members. Over 600,000 members is a record for the Conservatives and for all parties in the country. Since his election, we feel that Mr. Poilievre seems tired. He does not have the same energy as during the leadership race. The rest of the holidays will no doubt do him good. He will need it, because 2023 might be an election year.
