No translator allowed at Liberal French debate for former Brampton MP Ruby Dhalla

Liberal Leadership hopeful Ruby Dhalla will not be getting a translator for the upcoming French debate in Montreal.

A Liberal party spokesman says the only the candidates and the moderator will be allowed on the debate stage, and no translation will be provided.

Dhalla says she’s not fluent in the language, but she plans to attend either way and will make opening and closing statements in French.

The Liberals plan to hold two leadership debates, one in French on Feb. 24 and one in English the following day.

Dhalla planned to request an interpreter for the French debate this week because she is not fluent in the language.

She said she’s taken French up to Grade 12 and is now working with a teacher because she believes it’s important to speak both languages.

Dhalla said in a statement Thursday that she remained committed to learning French, which would be her fifth language.

“As leader, I will always stand up for a Canada where every citizen, regardless of language, is included in the debates about our future,” she said. “While I recognize the Liberal Party’s decision, I see this as an opportunity to demonstrate my commitment to representing all Canadians.”

Dhalla was the federal Liberal MP for the riding of Brampton—Springdale, Ontario, from 2004 to 2011. She was defeated following allegations she had mistreated two caregivers hired for her mother in her family’s Mississauga home.

She stepped down as Liberal Youth and Multiculturalism Critic in 2009 following the controversy but has claimed the allegations were part of a smear campaign.

Dhalla has said she “will fix what is broken at home, and I will fight for Canada and Canadians on the world stage” and vowed to “deport every illegal immigrant in Canada” if she becomes prime minister.

The leader of the Liberal Party of Canada will be announced on March 9. with advance voting at 8 a.m. on February 26 and will continue until the convention. Members will be able to vote in advance online.

– With files from INsauga.com