OTTAWA —Liberal MPs have shot down the request to delve into the issue of whether it is appropriate for a politician to routinely use the Constitution’s controversial notwithstanding clause to override a court’s decision.
The governing MPs voted against NDP justice critic Murray Rankin’s motion proposing the justice and human rights committee study the routine use of the clause.
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Rankin says his motion, while prompted by recent comments made by Ontario Premier Doug Ford, is not intended to single out a premier or event.
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The notwithstanding clause gives provincial legislatures and Parliament the ability to usher in legislation that overrides provisions of the Charter of Rights and Freedoms for a five-year period.
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Rankin’s motion was defeated five to four.
Conservative MPs Tony Clement, Michael Cooper and Dave MacKenzie supported Rankin’s motion.
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