The federal Liberals are attempting to change the House of Commons sitting schedule to allow for more late-night debates in response to Conservative Leader Pierre Poilievre’s party trying to create dysfunction in the chamber.
Government House Leader Steven MacKinnon introduced a new government programming motion on Monday to adjust the timing of debates and votes until the end of the current session of Parliament.
The motion includes provisions for ministers, in collaboration with at least one opposition House leader, to request that the House continue debating government legislation past midnight. It also allows the government to adjourn the House without notice leading up to winter or summer breaks and proposes an overnight health break between midnight and 9 a.m. to prevent long voting sessions.
MacKinnon stated in the Commons that no one should have to work through the night due to opposition bullying, emphasizing the government’s commitment to preventing dysfunction in the House.
Conservative Leader Pierre Poilievre speaks during question period in the House of Commons on Parliament Hill in Ottawa on Wednesday, Feb. 14, 2024. THE CANADIAN PRESS/Sean Kilpatrick
MacKinnon mentioned that Conservatives are obstructing bills, even ones they support, and will now have to participate in late-night debates to show their commitment. He criticized their tactics as obstructive and aimed at hindering progress for Canadians.
While the Liberals accuse the Official Opposition of obstruction, the Conservatives deny responsibility for a stalled legislative agenda and vow to continue their parliamentary approach.
Conservative House Leader Andrew Scheer expressed opposition to the motion, citing concerns about granting the Liberals significant new House powers without seeking all-party consensus.
NDP House Leader Peter Julian indicated support for the motion, stating that it encourages harder and smarter work.
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