QUESTION PERIOD — National Defence
Arctic Sovereignty
October 20, 2022
Government leader, the war in Ukraine is rekindling fears of nuclear war, and Canadians are right to wonder what Canada is doing to protect our nation. The vast expanse of Canada’s North, larger than the whole of Europe, is now gripping the attention of government and security experts. At a time when tensions are high in the wake of Russia’s invasion of Ukraine, they warn that North America’s Arctic may be vulnerable.
What is the federal government doing to protect Canada’s interests in the North?
The security and sovereignty of the North are of great concern to all Canadians and this government. The government has made landmark investments to increase our ability to operate in and defend the Arctic.
I have given much of this information during previous questions, but I will remind honourable senators that there is a $38.6-billion plan to modernize continental defences and a $122‑million contract to strengthen CFS Alert, and the government is conducting joint exercises in the Arctic, purchasing six Arctic and offshore patrol ships and is enhancing our surveillance and intelligence capacities with 88 fighter jets.
The government also welcomes the recent trip of senators to the North to further assess the security and other needs in that important part of our country.
Speaking of joint exercises, NATO is conducting its annual nuclear deterrent training exercise, known as Steadfast Noon, despite threats from Russia. At a time when Canada’s sovereignty in the North may be challenged, Canada needs to be more prepared than ever to counter aggression from Russia. We are told that 14 of the alliance’s 30 member states are taking part in Steadfast Noon.
Senator Gold, is Canada taking part in this exercise, and if so, what role is Canada playing?
Thank you for the question. I will have to make inquiries about the specific involvement of Canada in this regard, and I will report back when I can.
