The West Block Transcript – Episode 25, Season 13

THE WEST BLOCK
Episode 25, Season 13
Sunday, March 3, 2024

Host: Mercedes Stephenson

Guests:
Frank McKenna, Former New Brunswick Premier and Former
Canadian Ambassador to the United States
Arif Virani, Justice Minister
Joe Clark, Former Prime Minister

Location:
Ottawa Studio

Mercedes Stephenson: Remembering former prime minister Brian Mulroney: his wins, his losses, and his profound impact on our country.

I’m Mercedes Stephenson. The West Block begins now.

He was known as Canada’s great deal maker at a tumultuous time in history. From leading the fight against apartheid, to negotiating free trade, Brian Mulroney also became a friend and inspiration to many leaders regardless of their political stripe.

Jean Chrétien, Former Prime Minister: “He was an important prime minister at a very difficult time in the country. Ah, but we had fun. We would tease each other.”

Frank McKenna Former New Brunswick Premier and Former Canadian Ambassador to the U.S.: “There’s no doubt in my mind that in the full sweep of history, he’ll be remembered in the pantheon of our greatest prime ministers.”

Mercedes Stephenson: We speak to former Canadian ambassador to the U.S. and former New Brunswick premier Frank McKenna about his close friendship with Brian Mulroney.

And, some final thoughts from former prime minister Joe Clark.

Plus, does the government’s long-awaited online harms legislation put a chill on free speech. I’ll ask the justice minister.

Mercedes Stephenson: Brian Mulroney shaped the Canada that we know today. He introduced many of the ideas and policies that now seem second nature to us, from negotiating free trade, to protecting the environment and yes, to bringing in the GST. He was known as a great statesman. He led the often lonely fight