Minister invokes cabinet secrecy at committee

OTTAWA – Justice Minister David Lametti repeatedly invoked cabinet confidentiality in his appearance before a special committee tasked with investigating the government’s use of the Emergencies Act.

Lametti was asked pointed questions Tuesday evening about federal consultations with provinces and others before declaring an emergency, and when the government received advice to revoke the declaration. On multiple occasions, he responded that he “would not betray cabinet confidence.”

That has been a central concern for the Conservatives since Monday’s launch of a separate public inquiry into the use of the Emergencies Act. Both the committee and the inquiry are required under the act.

The opposition wants the Liberals to waive cabinet confidence and release all the information the government relied upon in making its decision.

Lametti said his government has tabled documents with the committee that give a clear picture of the decision making.

“I think Canadians will understand that cabinet confidence is a critical part of our cabinet governance system,” Lametti said.

“So the waiving of cabinet confidence is extremely rare.”

Committee member and NDP MP Matthew Green challenged Lametti, saying he had “an opportunity to be honest with Canadians” about the evidence and facts around the decision. He called on the minister to be more co-operative and forthcoming.

“You’re certainly impeding the process through which we can get clarity,” Green said.

Lametti responded that he is also bound by solicitor-client privilege as attorney general.

The Liberal government declared an emergency under the act for the first time in history on Feb. 14, granting extraordinary powers to police to end blockades at border crossings in Ontario, Alberta and B.C., as well as the ongoing occupation of downtown Ottawa.

Another senior Liberal minister said Tuesday the government has to…