SNC Lavalin inquiry halted

Jodi Wilson-Raybould can’t testify to the RCMP about the SNC Lavalin inquiry.

The Globe and Mail reported that witnesses involved in the case can’t speak to the Mounties because of cabinet confidentiality.

Robert Fife broke the story. He told Gormley on Thursday there’s only one real way for cabinet confidentiality to be waived.

“It’s up to the prime minister,” he said. “You cannot (work around it) through a search warrant, or court order, or anything else.”

Fife said cabinet confidentiality has been around in Canada for decades, but that previous prime ministers have waived it.

“Paul Martin gave a waiver that provided all of the documents and opened up all witnesses to testify,” Fife said.

“Back in 1987, a former Mulroney minister was involved in an alleged land swap. Mr. Mulroney gave a waiver for the police to be able to investigate.”

Fife said the inquiry is mostly paused until the election is over.

“They may be still gathering evidence, but they’re not interviewing or seeking documents,” Fife said.