The new leader of the Federal Democratic Party, Jagmeet Singh, attacked both Prime Minister Justin Trudeau and Conservative leader Pierre Poilievre today at a conference of the governing New Democratic Party led by British Columbia Premier David Eby.

Singh, whose New Democrats have struck a confidence and supply agreement with the federal minority Liberal government, said Trudeau is an elusive leader who only acts when facing political problems.

He also said that Poilievre, at the same time, only pretends to care and knows nothing about the struggles and lives of ordinary people.

The New Democrats are in Victoria this weekend to discuss policy and mapping strategy ahead of next year’s provincial election.

Singh also said the federal New Democrats are pressing the Liberal government to bring a dental care coverage program for all Canadians and will continue to fight for a comprehensive drug care program to cover prescription costs for everyone.

He described working with the federal Liberals as "wrestling with snakes greased with oil."

Outside the conference hall, about 100 protesters were chanting "Free Palestine," with some lying silently on the ground covered in white sheets stained with red.