Poilievre defends decision to block reporters from campaign plane

Conservative Leader Pierre Poilievre has come under fire for his campaign’s decision to block journalists from travelling on the party’s campaign plane during the election. Despite the criticism, Poilievre defended this move, stating that it will allow for more coverage from local reporters rather than the political journalists who typically cover him.

The decision to bar political reporters and other journalists from travelling on the Conservative campaign plane or bus has sparked controversy, as it breaks from tradition. This means that Poilievre’s events and news conferences will mostly be covered by local and regional reporters during the election period.

During a press stop in Jonquière, Que., Poilievre was questioned about whether this ban would limit media access, especially for francophone news organizations. In the past, a French-speaking Radio-Canada reporter accompanied the Conservative leader throughout the campaign, providing coverage in that language to all of Canada.

Poilievre assured that his campaign will maintain “open media access across the country” and emphasized that it will be beneficial to hear from reporters who are not regularly assigned to cover him. He also mentioned that the party’s communications will be conducted in French, and he is willing to answer questions in either official language regardless of his location.

On the other hand, the Liberals, NDP, and Bloc Québécois have stated that they will allow journalists to travel with their respective leaders, contrasting Poilievre’s decision. Poilievre’s opponents have seized upon this move, with NDP Leader Jagmeet Singh suggesting that Poilievre’s avoidance of questions reflects poorly on his candidacy for prime minister.

The Liberal Party criticized Poilievre for attempting to evade accountability by limiting media access. Similarly, the Green Party condemned the Conservative party’s decision as part of a larger pattern of contempt for the press, emphasizing the importance of a free press in maintaining democracy.

Despite the backlash, Poilievre defended his position by pointing out that media outlets have had the opportunity to ask questions remotely through teleconferencing. He also highlighted that in the months leading up to the expected election campaign, he did not have media accompanying him, yet reporters were still able to reach him with their inquiries.

In contrast to his main opponent, Mark Carney, Poilievre asserted that he has been more accessible to the media and has answered a higher number of questions. He pointed out that Carney has been criticized for avoiding tough questions about his finances and possible conflicts of interest.

Overall, Poilievre’s decision to block journalists from travelling with his campaign has sparked debate and criticism from his political rivals and media organizations. The impact of this move on media coverage and public perception during the election remains to be seen.