Scheer doesn’t seem keen to move into Stornoway, but says talks are ‘ongoing’

Newly appointed interim Opposition leader Andrew Scheer has confirmed that discussions are underway regarding the current situation at Stornoway. However, he does not seem inclined to hasten the process of moving into the official residence.

Following Pierre Poilievre’s defeat in his long-held Ontario riding on election night, questions have arisen about his residency at Stornoway, where he and his family have been living since he assumed leadership of the Conservative Party in 2022. As per regulations, the state-owned residence is designated for the leader of the Official Opposition, a position that can only be held by a sitting Member of Parliament.

Scheer, who is currently fulfilling the role of the Official Opposition leader, expressed that the ongoing discussions are centered on finding the most cost-effective solution for Canadian taxpayers. He emphasized the need to avoid unnecessary expenses associated with moving individuals in and out of the official residence.

The Privy Council Office has stated that the responsibility of managing the leadership in the House of Commons, including residency at Stornoway, lies with the Conservative Party. Scheer expressed hope for Poilievre’s swift return to the House, rendering the Stornoway dilemma temporary.

Conservative MP Damien Kurek has volunteered to vacate his seat in Alberta’s Battle River-Crowfoot riding, allowing Poilievre to contest in a by-election. However, the process of initiating the by-election may take some time, as Members of Parliament are required to wait 30 days after election results are published in the Canada Gazette before resigning.

Once the Speaker confirms the vacancy, the Governor General, following advice from the Prime Minister and cabinet, sets the date for the by-election, which can occur between 11 and 180 days after the resignation. Prime Minister Mark Carney has pledged to expedite the by-election process, but Poilievre may not return to the House until the fall session.

Should Poilievre secure victory in Battle River-Crowfoot, it is anticipated to be a temporary constituency. The Conservative Party intends for Kurek to contest the riding in the next general election, leaving uncertainty regarding Poilievre’s future seat allocation.