In a poignant farewell to his illustrious career, Robert Fife, the Ottawa Bureau Chief for The Globe and Mail, recently engaged with readers in a reflective Q&A session ahead of his retirement at the end of May. Having overseen the Ottawa bureau for a decade, Fife has been a stalwart in Canadian political journalism, known for his incisive reporting on high-stakes issues such as the SNC-Lavalin scandal and allegations of foreign interference in Canadian elections. His insights offer a unique lens into the evolution of political reporting, the challenges faced by journalists, and the state of Canadian democracy.
A Legacy of Impactful Reporting
Throughout his extensive career, Fife has covered critical political narratives that have shaped Canadian governance. When asked about the cabinet minister he admired most, Fife highlighted Paul Martin’s tenure as finance minister under Jean Chrétien. “They took decisive action to eliminate the deficit that was threatening Canada’s financial standing,” he noted, showcasing his appreciation for effective leadership during challenging times. Conversely, he refrained from singling out disappointing ministers, suggesting that the list was too long to choose just one.
Fife’s views on the current political landscape are equally compelling. He addressed the future of Conservative leader Pierre Poilievre, suggesting that discontent among party members could signal challenges ahead for his leadership. “No one yet has emerged to challenge Mr. Poilievre, but I suspect he may struggle to maintain his position,” Fife remarked, alluding to recent defections to the Liberal Party that reflect unrest within Conservative ranks.
The Evolution of Political Journalism
Reflecting on his career, Fife observed a significant decline in the number of reporters covering national politics since he first arrived on Parliament Hill in 1978. He expressed concerns over the erosion of journalistic integrity due to government secrecy and the centralisation of power within the Prime Minister’s Office. “Excessive secrecy and the increasing concentration of power are deeply worrying,” he warned, underscoring the challenges facing today’s journalists in the pursuit of truth.
Fife’s career highlights include groundbreaking stories like the investigation into Maryam Monsef’s background, which revealed discrepancies in her narrative. He recounted the scepticism he initially felt regarding a tip about her origins, emphasising the importance of thorough reporting in uncovering the facts. His commitment to revealing the truth extends to his coverage of the no-fly list issue, where he advocated for changes that ultimately allowed children unfairly affected by the system to board flights.
Wisdom for Future Journalists
As a seasoned journalist, Fife has invaluable advice for the next generation. He lamented the difficulties in accessing information today compared to two decades ago, emphasising the need for persistence and curiosity. “Stay curious, work the phones, meet as many people as you can, and never give up,” he advised, highlighting the importance of building relationships based on trust to uncover vital information.
When discussing impartiality, Fife noted the necessity of self-reflection in journalism. “You have to always question yourself and ask: Am I being fair and is this balanced?” he stated. He credited The Globe’s rigorous editorial process for helping maintain objectivity in his reporting.
A Fond Farewell
As Fife approaches retirement, his contributions to Canadian journalism are being recognised and celebrated. Colleagues and readers alike expressed their gratitude for his insights and dedication to non-partisan reporting. In a light-hearted exchange, Fife even entertained the idea of opening a pub named “The Fife and Chase,” a nod to his comradeship in journalism and the camaraderie he has fostered over the years.
Fife will remain connected to the profession, as he has agreed to mentor young journalists on a part-time basis following his retirement. His legacy will undoubtedly continue to influence the next wave of political reporters in Canada.
Why it Matters
Robert Fife’s departure marks the end of an era in Canadian journalism, characterised by a commitment to uncovering the truth and holding power accountable. His reflections serve as a clarion call for the importance of integrity, perseverance, and trust in journalism. As Canada faces evolving political challenges, Fife’s insights remind us that a robust fourth estate remains crucial for the health of democracy. The void left by his departure will be felt keenly, but his values and lessons will resonate with journalists and the public alike for years to come.