Controversy surrounding religious freedom took centre stage when the House of Commons resumed sitting last week. Conservative House Leader and Portage-Lisgar MP Candice Bergen explained the situation.

File photo of Candice Bergen

"The issue is about freedom of conscience and freedom of belief. The Liberal government should not be able to withhold summer jobs program funding from organizations that won't sign their attestation. They have introduced this attestation that they are forcing organizations to check off if they want to apply for Canada summer jobs."

Among the policies requiring agreement are abortion issues that disagree with pro-life groups.

She says the Liberals are taking a slippery and dangerous slope by telling individuals and organizations what they're allowed to believe and think. She says this drastically violates the Canadian Charter of Rights and Freedoms, and the Conservatives are incredibly offended and opposed to this plan.

Bergen says there are very good organizations that create jobs and employment for students while delivering great services as well as helping young people in our region. She says refusal to agree with Liberal ideology thereby puts these organizations outside of available funding. She notes those who are offended need to call Liberal MPs in Manitoba, noting that's the closest voice we have in federal government and inform them.

Bergen explains Conservatives are on the side of groups that are applying. She notes groups should be chosen according to which ones provide work for young people rather than for passing Trudeau's values and litmus tests. Bergen stresses if groups or individuals are upset, they need to be vocal.