Trudeau Appoints Two New Independent Senators to Canadian Senate

Ottawa, ON – Prime Minister Justin Trudeau announced the appointment of two new independent senators to the Canadian Senate: Allister Surette of Nova Scotia and Nancy Karetak-Lindell of Nunavut. Both bring extensive experience and leadership to their new roles.

Allister Surette, a seasoned executive with over 30 years in education, politics, and governance, served as a member of the Nova Scotia Legislative Assembly from 1993 to 1998, holding multiple Cabinet portfolios. Surette was the President and Vice-Chancellor of Université Sainte-Anne from 2011 to 2024, during which he became a steadfast advocate for Canada’s Francophone and Acadian communities.

Nancy Karetak-Lindell is a celebrated Inuk leader and community advocate who became the first Member of Parliament for the newly established riding of Nunavut, serving from 1997 to 2008. Her leadership extended to her role as President of Inuit Circumpolar Council Canada. Karetak-Lindell is a recipient of the Order of Canada and continues to be a vocal proponent of Nunavut’s cultural, economic, and environmental priorities.

These appointments were made through the merit-based Independent Advisory Board for Senate Appointments, a process introduced in 2016 to promote independence and non-partisanship in the Senate. The new senators will fill vacancies in the Senate, ensuring a diverse representation of Canada’s regions and perspectives.

Prime Minister Trudeau expressed confidence in the appointees, saying, “I am confident they will represent their communities well and I look forward to working with them to make a real difference in the lives of Canadians.”

The appointments mark a continued effort to foster strong, independent voices in the Senate, addressing Canada’s challenges while ensuring all regions have a seat at the table.

SOURCE PMO