Canada's federal election debates set for April 16 and 17 in Montreal, with strict rules for leader participation.

Canada's upcoming federal election will feature two leaders' debates in Montreal on April 16 (French) and April 17 (English). Leaders must meet at least two out of three criteria to participate, including having an MP, polling at least 4% nationally, or fielding candidates in 90% of ridings. The TVA network cancelled a separate French debate after Liberal leader Mark Carney declined to participate, citing funding issues. The official debates will be held at Radio-Canada's studios.