May 27, 2021

-Global News

NDP Leader Jagmeet Singh is apologizing after a video obtained by Global News shows him breaking COVID-19 restrictions and spending unmasked time in close quarters with an individual who is not from his household.

The footage, which the party confirmed seems “legitimate,” shows Singh exiting a car with Taranvir Dhaliwal, who works as an executive assistant for Singh’s brother Gurratan — a provincial NDP MPP.

Neither Singh nor Dhaliwal are wearing masks, and the two share a hug before walking away together.

Singh had been attending a drive-in Iftar event in Mississauga with Dhaliwal before driving back to Singh’s family home, where he has been living with his parents and siblings throughout the pandemic.

“Like most Canadians, I’ve done my best to follow public health advice. Coming back from this event, I did not do enough to follow that advice and I’m sorry,” Singh said in a statement emailed to Global News.


“I will do better to keep my family, our community and all Canadians safe. We cannot let our guard down if we want to beat this virus, and I’m committed to continue to do my best until we’re on the other side of this.”

Dhaliwal and Singh are both vaccinated with one dose, the source added, though vaccinated Canadians are still currently required to follow the same rules as those who have yet to receive their shots.

Speaking to Global News in an interview on Thursday, Singh reiterated his apology.

“I really hope that this just doesn’t discourage anyone from wearing their masks and following public health protocols,” he said.

READ MORE AT GLOBAL NEWS