Fear and cynicism triumph over democracy

Official Opposition Public Safety critic Randall Garrison (Esquimalt—Juan de Fuca) made the following statement on the adoption of Bill C-51:

“New Democrats strongly condemn the adoption of Bill C-51. Thousands of Canadians took to the streets to protest this bill which will erode our rights and freedoms. These people don’t want fear to triumph over the values that guide our democracy.

“The NDP is a party that fights for its principles, and we have tried everything to make the government backtrack and to convince our Liberal opponents to do the right thing and vote against this devastating bill. It’s equally shameful that the leader of the Liberal Party of Canada also gave in to fear instead of standing up and defending our way of life.

“Terrorism is a very real threat, but it is the responsibility of the government to protect both public safety and our civil liberties. This bill is vague, dangerous and won't make Canadians safer.

“As usual, Stephen Harper is playing politics instead of defending Canadians’ rights and freedoms. And the Liberals are just letting the prime minister get his way.

“It’s disappointing, but we shouldn’t be surprised by the Liberals’ cynicism. Their leader, Justin Trudeau, said a few weeks ago: “I don’t want this government to score political points on the backs of Canadians, especially with an issue as important as public safety. We could have this conversation if the elections weren’t a few months away…”

“Canadians deserve better.”