January 28, 2024. OTTAWA, ON. The Ukrainian Canadian Congress (UCC) is pleased to have been granted Party standing at the Public Inquiry into Foreign Interference in Federal Electoral Processes and Democratic Institutions.
Foreign interference by authoritarian regimes into Canada’s pluralist democracy is a growing and persistent threat. The UCC looks forward to representing the interests and presenting the concerns of the 1.4-milion strong Ukrainian community in Canada at the Inquiry. Preliminary public hearings at the Inquiry begin January 29.
“The primary concerns of the Ukrainian Canadian community are the interference of the Russian government in Canada’s democratic institutions and the response of our government to this interference,” stated Alexandra Chyczij, National President of the UCC. “The Canadian Government must act decisively to address Russia’s malign influence and pernicious effects on our democracy.”
Having been granted Party standing, the UCC has the right to introduce and review documents; and cross-examine witnesses at the Inquiry. The UCC will be providing regular updates to our community on the progress of the Inquiry.
Donald Bayne and Jon Doody of Bayne Sellar Ertel Macrae, have extensive experience in public inquiries and will represent the UCC.
The Honourable Marie-Josée Hogue, a judge of the Quebec Court of Appeal, has been appointed Commissioner.
The Ukrainian Canadian Congress has been granted Party standing in both the factual and policy phases of the Inquiry. Commissioner Hogue’s decision on standing can be read here: Decision on Applications for Standing
More information on the Inquiry is available here:
Public Inquiry into Foreign Interference in Federal Electoral Processes and Democratic Institutions
