Liberal party denies Ruby Dhalla translator for French debate

OTTAWA — The Liberal party will not accommodate leadership hopeful Ruby Dhalla’s request for a translator at the upcoming French debate in Montreal.

Party spokesman Parker Lund said only the candidates and the moderator will be allowed on the debate stage and no translation will be provided.

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Dhalla said in a recent interview that her campaign planned to ask this week for a translator for the French debate because she is not fluent in the language.

But she plans to attend either way and will make opening and closing statemets in French.

Dhalla said in a statement on Thursday that she remains dedicated to learning French, which would be her fifth language.

“As leader, I will always champion a Canada where every citizen, regardless of language, is included in the conversation about our future,” she said. “While I acknowledge the Liberal party’s decision, I see this as an opportunity to demonstrate my commitment to representing all Canadians.”

The Liberals have two upcoming leadership debates planned, one in French on Feb. 24 and an English debate the following day.

The party will announce the new leader at an event in Ottawa on March 9.

According to the party’s recently published procedures, the advance voting period begins at 8 a.m. on Feb. 26 and runs through to the convention. Members can cast their preferential ballots in advance online.

The voting period on March 9 runs from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m.

This report by The Canadian Press was first published Feb. 13, 2025.

Kyle Duggan, The Canadian Press