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“I am a Canadian, free to speak without fear, free to worship in my own way, free to stand for what I think right, free to oppose what I believe wrong, or free to choose those who shall govern my country. This heritage of freedom I pledge to uphold for myself and all mankind.” ~~ John G. Diefenbaker

Exclusive Ottawa fundraising event draws dozens of lobbyists — despite Liberal promises (Investigative Journalism Foundation)


On a drizzly Monday evening in June, more than 800 Liberal Party donors mingled with 14 cabinet ministers, eight secretaries of state and the prime minister at the Canadian War Museum, enjoying hors d'oeuvres and views of the Ottawa River.

The annual Laurier Club Summer Reception and Garden Party is an exclusive event for Liberal supporters who donate the legal maximum of $1,750 to the federal party each year. It is a must-go not just for politicians, but also those hoping to influence them.

An IJF analysis has found that dozens of registered lobbyists attended this year’s event, gaining access to cabinet ministers without triggering federal lobbying disclosure rules.  

That’s despite the long-standing Liberal pledge to ensure “registered Lobbyists don’t attend ticketed events where they’re registered to lobby the relevant special guest" ...

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