Mr. Speaker, today is World Press Freedom Day, and the NDP would like to pay tribute to journalists who have lost their lives while keeping us informed.
Even now, around the world, many publications are censored or banned because of their content or because they campaign for greater freedom and democracy.
Freedom of the press is the cornerstone of every democratic society, and Canada is no exception. In fact, Canada should be a leader in respecting basic rights, such as freedom of the press.
Unfortunately, the Conservatives are venturing into dangerous territory. They value ideology over facts and refuse to listen to environmental and financial experts. The Prime Minister's Office protects information as though it were the crown jewels.
Never has a government allowed journalists so little access to information. Maybe it is trying to prevent all of its scandals from being exposed.
The NDP is against such a blatant lack of transparency toward journalists and, by extension, the Canadian public.
The NDP will remain vigilant to ensure that journalists' freedom of expression is respected and protected.