The Monday news briefing: An at-a-glance survey of some top stories
Highlights from the news file for Monday, Dec. 12
FEDS TO MAKE IT EASIER TO ESTABLISH SAFE INJECTION SITES: The federal government is making it easier to set up supervised drug injection sites in Canada while cracking down on illicit shipments of fentanyl. Health Minister Jane Philpott and Public Safety Minister Ralph Goodale announced the proposed changes to the Controlled Drug and Substances Act after question period Monday. Philpott says the new law would make it easier for injection sites to be established, provided they can demonstrate a compelling public health need and a lack of risk to public safety. The new legislation would also lift a restriction that prevents border guards from inspecting packages that are under 30 grams in weight, provided they have reason to believe the packages contain illegal drugs.
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PM ADMITS HE GETS LOBBIED BY DONORS: Justin Trudeau admits he gets lobbied on government business when he’s the featured draw at Liberal party fundraisers. The prime minister says wherever he goes, he’s approached by people who want to talk about issues that matter to them, but he says he doesn’t let anything donors say to him influence government decisions. Trudeau has been under fire for weeks over so-called cash-for-access fundraising events that feature him or one of his ministers. He insists federal political donations are subject to the most stringent rules in the country and the Liberal party follows all the rules.