Leaders’ debate: Affordability and Canadian security top of mind during heated discussion

An agreement on border security

During a recent discussion on crime and gun control, Singh and Poilievre found common ground on one issue: the need to increase border security. However, Singh pointed out that the Conservatives had actually cut the number of border agents during their time in power. Poilievre, on the other hand, stated that he would hire 2,000 border guards and crack down on gun smugglers.

Singh criticized the idea of rehiring border agents after they had been previously cut, emphasizing the importance of addressing the flow of illegal guns coming into Canada from the south. He highlighted the fact that a significant portion of violent crime in Canada is committed using these illegal firearms.

In response, Poilievre shifted the focus to the NDP and Liberals, accusing them of wanting to ban hunting rifles. He asserted his commitment to protecting Canadians from criminals, contrasting it with what he perceived as the Liberals’ prioritization of protecting turkeys from hunters.

Carney, on the other hand, expressed his support for the rights of hunters and Indigenous Canadians regarding gun ownership. He also proposed making it a criminal offense to threaten community centers and places of worship, shifting the conversation towards safeguarding vulnerable locations.

When asked about the biggest security threat facing Canada, Poilievre avoided mentioning Trump and instead highlighted what he described as a “rampant crime wave running out of control.”

The discussion around border security, crime, and gun control revealed both areas of agreement and divergence among the candidates. While they all emphasized the importance of protecting Canadians, their approaches varied significantly. From hiring more border guards to addressing the root causes of crime, each candidate offered distinct perspectives on how to enhance security in the country.