Big Topics & Big Ideas
Since its inception in 1999, the Frontier Centre for Public Policy has been steadfast in its mission to foster Ideas for a Better Tomorrow. Through research, publications, educational events and policy analysis, Frontier has impacted dozens of governments and policy sectors. With Western Canadian roots and a drive to cultivate responsible citizenship, Leaders on the Frontier features discussions of common sense and good governance from this non-partisan, cutting-edge think tank.
“Unlawful. Illegal.” Why the Emergencies Act Decision Matters to Every Canadian
A court of Appeal deemed the Emergencies Act was used illegally in February 2022. If another crisis hits tomorrow, what standards would government have to meet? Did we learn any lessons, or will this happen again? David Leis speaks with Josh DeHaas of the Canadian Constitution Foundation, the team behind the court action. Josh explains how vague emergency definitions, secrecy in governance, and unchecked executive power could shape future policy decisions. With legislation like Bill C-8, Bill C-9, and Bill C-15 expanding government authority, the real question is no longer what happened, but what policy changes, if any, are being made to stop it from happening again.
Featured Podcast Episode
“Unlawful. Illegal.” Why the Emergencies Act Decision Matters to Every Canadian
A court of Appeal deemed the Emergencies Act was used illegally in February 2022. If another crisis hits tomorrow, what standards would government have to meet? Did we learn any lessons, or will this happen again? David Leis speaks with Josh DeHaas of the Canadian Constitution Foundation, the team behind the court action. Josh explains how vague emergency definitions, secrecy in governance, and unchecked executive power could shape future policy decisions. With legislation like Bill C-8, Bill C-9, and Bill C-15 expanding government authority, the real question is no longer what happened, but what policy changes, if any, are being made to stop it from happening again.
David Leis
Before becoming the president and CEO of the Frontier Centre for Public Policy, David Leis served in a variety of senior leadership roles within industry, government, First Nations and education. His academic credentials from Waterloo, Ryerson and Toronto led him to earn his Masters in Public Policy at Queen's University in Ontario. Networking everywhere he goes, David's warm personality has created connections with leaders around the globe. With a tenacious passion for Canada's success and a high regard for people, David relishes the opportunity to educate and inform by hosting Leaders on the Frontier.
