MP Housefather appointed to new role fighting antisemitism

Liberal MP Anthony Housefather has been named the federal government's new special adviser on Jewish community relations and antisemitism.

A statement from the Prime Minister's Office says Housefather will advise Prime Minister Justin Trudeau and ministers on the federal government's efforts to «combat antisemitism and ensure Jewish Canadians are able to live with vibrancy, security, and dignity.»

Housefather's appointment comes after splits opened up in the Liberal government caucus over the Israel-Hamas war. It also raises questions about how Housefather's role will differ from that of Deborah Lyons, the government's special envoy on preserving Holocaust remembrance and combating antisemitism.

«There has been no time in my lifetime when Jewish Canadians have felt as threatened as they do today,» Housefather said in a media statement published Friday.

«While we cannot make antisemitism disappear, all levels of government, universities and police can take concrete steps to make Jewish Canadians feel safer in this country.»

The MP for Mount Royal will undertake his new responsibilities while continuing his role as parliamentary secretary to the president of the Treasury Board. The government says he will be working closely with Lyons, Jewish communities and relevant stakeholders across the country.

Prime Minister Trudeau said in a media statement Friday that the government will do «whatever it takes to fight antisemitism and hate, which is unfortunately too prevalent in our communities.»

«With Mr. Housefather's appointment, we're continuing to make sure Jewish Canadians' voices are heard, protecting Jewish Canadian communities, and making Canada more inclusive for everyone.»

Housefather has clashed with his government over its