Liberals deny Ruby Dhalla interpreter for French leadership debate

The Liberal Party will not accommodate leadership hopeful Ruby Dhalla's request for an interpreter at the upcoming French debate in Montreal.

Party spokesperson Parker Lund said only the candidates and the moderator will be allowed on the debate stage and no translation will be provided.

Dhalla said in a recent interview that her campaign planned to ask this week for an interpreter because she is not fluent in the language.

But she plans to attend either way and will make opening and closing statements in French.

Dhalla on Thursday that she remains dedicated to learning French, which would be her fifth language.

"As leader, I will always champion a Canada where every citizen, regardless of language, is included in the conversation about our future," she said in a statement. "While I acknowledge the Liberal Party's decision, I see this as an opportunity to demonstrate my commitment to representing all Canadians."

WATCH | Liberal leadership hopeful says she's 'here to save Canada': 

Liberal leadership hopeful says she's 'here to save Canada'

29 days ago

Duration 8:32

A familiar face has entered the race to replace Prime Minister Justin Trudeau as the leader of the Liberal Party. Former MP for Brampton-Springdale, Ruby Dhalla, has returned to politics after losing her seat in the 2011 federal election. She tells Power & Politics that she has what the other leadership hopefuls don't.

The Liberals have two upcoming debates planned, one in French on Feb. 24 and an English debate the following day.

The party will announce its new leader at an event in Ottawa on March 9.

According to the party's recently published procedures, the advance voting period begins at 8 a.m. on Feb. 26 and runs through to the convention. Members can cast their ballots in advance online.

The voting period on March 9 runs from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m.