Prime Minister Justin Trudeau’s annual Christmas message encourages Canadians to give thanks for “all that is good in the world” and check in on those who have not had an easy time this year.
“As we reflect on the past year and look to the future, let us continue to show love and kindness — to ourselves and to those in need.”
Trudeau also gave thanks to the brave members of the Canadian Armed Forces, first responders, essential workers and volunteers.
Questions loom over Trudeau’s future
The annual message comes amid a vulnerable time in his leadership, where he is believed to be reflecting on his political future.
In the week since Chrystia Freeland’s sudden resignation from Cabinet, calls for the prime minister to resign have echoed across the country. To date, 21 Liberal MPs have publicly called on Trudeau to go.
Prime Minister Justin Trudeau looks on at the start of a cabinet swearing in ceremony for Dominic LeBlanc, not shown, as Finance Minister at Rideau Hall in Ottawa on Dec. 16. (Justin Tang/The Canadian Press)
At a virtual meeting of the Ontario Liberal caucus on Saturday morning, more than 50 Liberal MPs came to a consensus that Trudeau needs to step down as party leader, multiple sources told CBC News.
The prime minister so far has not addressed Canadians about the growing calls for him to step down, or spoken publicly about the resignation of Freeland.
Trudeau stopped briefly to speak to reporters following a cabinet meeting on Friday.
Offering that it was an “excellent” meeting, “almost entirely focused on the Canada-U.S. dynamic,” Trudeau did not answer any questions about the future of his leadership.
“We have a lot of work to do and that’s what we’re focused on,” Trudeau said.
WATCH | PM addresses media for first time following Freeland resignation:
CBC’s Poll Tracker suggests a widening lead for the Conservatives, comfortably ahead of the Liberals by more than double the points.
Read the prime minister’s full Christmas statement below.
Prime minister’s Christmas message
“Merry Christmas, everyone! This is such a special time of year. A time to gather with loved ones, to celebrate the spirit of the season, and to give thanks for all that is good in the world.
“For Christians, it’s a time to celebrate the birth of Jesus Christ and think about his story of kindness, forgiveness, and faith. The lessons of his life are universal, and they inspire and comfort people every time they’re told — and retold.
“For you, the holidays may be a time of big family gatherings and feasts, of gifts and celebrations. But maybe it’s a very hard time. If you’re grieving, worried, or alone, this can be the toughest time of the year. It can be the loneliest. So let’s all check in on the people in our lives who have not had an easy time this year, and who may need us more than we know.
“As we reflect on the past year and look to the future, let us continue to show love and kindness — to ourselves and to those in need. Let us also take a moment to thank those who give so much of themselves to make Canada the place we are proud to call home, including the brave members of our Canadian Armed Forces, the dedicated first responders and essential workers, and the countless volunteers. Thank you, to all of you.
“I wish joy to everyone who is celebrating today, and comfort to those who are suffering. Wherever you are, I hope you find light and hope for the year ahead. Merry Christmas.”
This message is also available here.