Skip to main content
Parliament returns Wednesday, May 20
Liberal

Robert Oliphant

LiberalDon Valley WestOntario
988Votes Cast
20Speeches
0Bills Sponsored
Background
Born
1956
Career
United Church minister
Political Experience
Canadian politician
Public Profile

Based on publicly available information — may contain inaccuracies

Business & Financial Interests

Before entering federal politics, Robert Oliphant was an ordained minister in the United Church of Canada. He served in several congregations and held senior roles within the church's administration. He also worked for the Government of Ontario as a senior advisor in the Ministry of Intergovernmental Affairs. According to his public disclosures, he has reported assets including publicly traded securities and a rental property. His professional background is primarily in theology and public administration rather than private business.

Key Relationships & Connections

As a long-serving Member of Parliament, Robert Oliphant has held several key roles within the Liberal government. He has served as the Parliamentary Secretary to the Minister of Foreign Affairs under multiple ministers, including Chrystia Freeland, Marc Garneau, and Mélanie Joly. This position placed him in a close working relationship with these senior cabinet members, acting as a key representative for Canada on the world stage.

Public Controversies

Robert Oliphant faced public scrutiny and media attention in 2023 regarding his travel expenses. Reports highlighted that he had spent over $120,000 on travel in his role as Parliamentary Secretary to the Minister of Foreign Affairs in less than a year. The expenses included trips to various countries for diplomatic purposes. In response to the reports, his office and the government defended the travel as a necessary part of his official duties, which involved representing Canada at international meetings and engaging in diplomacy. The controversy centered on the cost to taxpayers during a time of heightened concern over government spending.

Committee Memberships
Where Robert Stands

Where Robert falls on key policy spectrums

They vote

Your Money

Taxes & Government SpendingBusiness & Worker RulesEnergy & the Economy

People & Society

HealthcareImmigrationIndigenous PeoplesIdentity & Human RightsEducation & ChildcareDrug Policy

How We're Governed

National Security & DefencePolitical & Electoral ReformCrime & Public SafetyFirearms

Land & Community

Environment, Climate & ResourcesHousing & Cost of LivingRural Communities & Culture
They vote
Riding
House Seat

How does Robert Oliphant's voting record line up with your values?

Set 3 priorities
Recent Activity
May 8, 2026
DebateForeign Affairs

Mr. Speaker, I think everyone in this House knows that our government is significantly engaging around the world to do three things. We want to open markets for Canadian goods and services while attracting investment. We want to create jobs for young people and all Canadians. We want to ensure that our economy is resilient. Minister of Foreign Affairs Just last week, thewas in Armenia

May 8, 2026
DebateSafia Parveen

Mr. Speaker, on April 2, Don Valley West mourned the loss of Safia Parveen, a formidable community leader and advocate for the Thorncliffe Park neighbourhood in my riding. Recognizing the significant benefit that nature can have on our mental health, a decade ago Safia launched the Thorncliffe Wellness Café Group, connecting newcomers with each other and their natural environment. Having been a

Apr 30, 2026
DebateThe Salvation Army

Mr. Speaker, I have the pleasure today to welcome to Ottawa the world leaders of the Salvation Army, General Lyndon Buckingham and Commissioner Bronwyn Buckingham, with officers of the Canadian headquarters, which is located in my riding of Don Valley West. Dedicated to selfless service and holding high the dignity of those in need, the Salvation Army has been helping Canadians for more than a

Apr 23, 2026
DebateGenerations Toronto

Mr. Speaker, Don Valley West is home to the largest community of Shia Ismaili Muslims in Canada. This vibrant community is made up of thousands of engaged, committed Canadians who make our city and our country richer in every sense of the word. Recently, I was honoured to join His Highness the Aga Khan and members of the community to celebrate the inauguration of Generations Toronto, a new