Minister Blair Says Tories Spreading ‘Misinformation’ on New Military Chaplain Directive on Prayer

The defence minister says chaplains will not be banned from prayer on Remembrance Day, nor at any other times.

National Defence Minister Bill Blair rises during question period in the House of Commons on Sept. 29, 2023. The Canadian Press/Adrian Wyld

Defence Minister Bill Blair says the Conservative Party is spreading “misinformation” by saying military chaplains are no longer allowed to say prayers during public functions.

“Let’s be very clear: [Canadian Forces] chaplains are not – and will not be – banned from prayer on Remembrance Day, nor at any other time,” Mr. Blair wrote on X on Oct. 19.