Prime Minister Justin Trudeau announced Saturday that veteran broadcaster Charles Adler and Saskatchewan hospital executive Tracy Muggli have been appointed as Canada's newest independent senators. Adler, originally from Hungary, arrived in Canada as a refugee and has spent over 50 years as a radio host and journalist. He will represent Manitoba in the Senate. The Prime Minister's Office highlighted Adler's dedication to championing human rights and Canadian democracy throughout his career.
Muggli, who will represent Saskatchewan, is a registered social worker with extensive experience in the health and social services sectors. She currently serves as the executive director of St. Paul’s Hospital in Saskatoon. She also has a history of public service in provincial health and social services.
Both appointments were made by Governor General Mary Simon, based on recommendations from the independent advisory board for senate appointments, established in 2016. Trudeau praised the new senators, stating,The Senate of Canada will be stronger with its newest independent senators. Mr. Adler and Ms. Muggli will put their vast experience and knowledge to work for all Canadians in their new roles.
The advisory board uses public, transparent, non-partisan, and merit-based criteria to recommend candidates to the prime minister, who then advises the Governor General on appointments.
However, a spokesman for Conservative Leader Pierre Poilievre, Sebastian Skamski, criticized Trudeau's claim of independence in Senate appointments. Skamski accused Trudeau of appointing Liberal allies, pointing to Adler's media support for Trudeau and Muggli's previous candidacies for the Liberal Party in the Saskatoon–Grasswood riding in 2015 and 2019.
This report by The Canadian Press was first published on Aug. 17, 2024.
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