The first report of the investigation into foreign interference in federal elections is scheduled to be released two months later than originally planned.
Public Safety Minister Dominique LeBlanc announced Thursday that the federal government has granted Judge Marie-Josée Hoag an extension on her interim report on foreign interference in federal elections.
Under Mr Hogue’s terms of reference, he was to submit an interim report by the end of February and a final report by the end of 2024.
Hogue wrote to the Privy Council Office requesting an extension, which was granted. She is currently scheduled to make her first report on May 3rd.
LeBlanc said in a statement Thursday that a copy of Hogue’s letter had been shared with opposition parties.
See | Federalist leaders agreed to the following reporting deadlines:
Public Security Minister Dominique Leblanc said all opposition leaders were “absolutely” in agreement with the deadline for Judge Marie-Josée Hoog to submit her report on foreign interference.
Hogue plans to hold a public hearing before releasing his interim report. She has the power to subpoena witnesses, including the prime minister and ministers. She also has the power to decide whether hearings should be made public or remain private due to national security concerns.
Hogue was appointed to lead the inquiry into foreign interference after David Johnston resigned as special rapporteur on foreign interference in September. She is tasked with investigating allegations that China, Russia and other states interfered in Canada’s 2019 and 2021 elections.
