While some bristle at the thought of Canada’s unelected Governor General having to decide the fate of our country over the next few days, and others are even using the situation to promote the demise of the Parliamentary system altogether, there is one more choice other than coalition, prorogation or election.
Her excellency could just say no, according to Dr. Roger Gibbons:
…The Governor General could simply refuse to accept Mr. Harper’s resignation, just as prime ministers and premiers in the past have often refused to accept letters of resignation from cabinet ministers. The Governor General could say that accepting Harper’s resignation is not in the best interests of the country because it would set in motion a choice between two unacceptable alternatives.
In effect, the Governor General would send Mr. Harper back to negotiate an economic package that could secure majority support in the House. She would implicitly instruct the opposition parties to make this Parliament work. She would exercise the discretionary power that the Constitution has wisely placed in her hands. She would just say no.
If they can’t come to a resolution even after being ordered to do so by the GG, then I agree with Lorrie Goldstein that proroguing Parliament is the next least distasteful alternative. (Lorrie has provided some excellent contact info in his column.)
The fact is there are some in the Liberal party who already beginning to see the folly of this farce and are keenly aware of the growing public backlash. Even normally complacent Canadians are becoming angry like they’ve never been before. Just ask talkshow radio hosts and any other media.
Who knows? Those same Canadians may actually be motivated to vote next time around, if we’re ever allowed to have a voice in who runs the country again.
The GGs decision could give the Liberal party a graceful way out and allow them to save face.
May God grant Michaelle Jean the wisdom to do the best thing for Canada.
* * * *
Related: The kiss of death – delivered by Jacques Parizeau. See Siscoe.
Please also check out Conservative Reporter. We are fighting for our country.
Late Morning Update: Interesting little tête-à-tête here between the Sun’s Lorrie Goldstein and Paul Berton – Canada’s Future at Stake. Don’t be afraid to let them know what you think of their respective arguments!
Paul’s email address is pberton@lfpress.com, and Lorrie’s is lorrie.goldstein@sunmedia.ca.
I actually never realized this before but Lorrie’s editorial allows comments.
Also please check out Stephen Taylor’s Rally for Canada by the Numbers . This could end up being a defining moment in Canadian history. Let’s take back Canada from the Entitled.
Try wrapping your brain and tongue around this one from Bourque : DEPUTY-PRIME MINISTER JACK LAYTON!!!
Coalition Cabinet Posts List! – see Don Martin. (H/T Sammy)
Canada Free Press supports the election option. (Please vote here if you haven’t already done so.)
“We respectfully remind broadcasters that the proposed coalition is just that: a proposal to the Canadian people by two of Canada['s] political parties with the backing of a third,” Mr. Layton’s chief of staff, Anne McGrath, wrote to broadcasters in what appears to be a hastily typed memo.
“The proposed coalition for a co-operative government will, and could only, take effect [if] the House of Commons demonstrates its lack of confidence in the current Prime Minister and his administration of our country. Until such time, the New Democratic Party and the Liberal Part (sic) are distinct and functionally separate caucuses in the House of Commons,” Ms. McGrath wrote.
Poor Jack. He wants to be the Deputy Prime Minister and have his separate air time too. Sometimes life just isn’t fair.
* * * *
Evening Update - Chong: We misread the situation. – Guelph Mercury.
Guelph’s Liberal MP: Focus should be on fixing economy – Mercury.
Dion’s Amateur Hour – Adam Radwanski:
…For Dion’s sake, frankly, not seeing it might have been better. The stumbles over language were perhaps to be expected, although with all afternoon to film it you’d think they could’ve done enough takes to get it right. But the presentation itself was plainly appalling. At a time when he needed to look reassuring, to look prime ministerial, he looked exactly the way the Conservatives have been trying to portray him – like the leader of some sort of third-rate coup, being filmed in his hideout with one of his accomplices sticking a cheap video camera in his face …
Geez Joanne – you and I have been up early with the same mindset in some areas. Keep on “keeping on”
Great minds think alike, CR.
I have never felt more energized and determined.
“I have never felt more energized and determined”
Isn’t that the truth Joanne….this may be a blessing in disguise as it has motivated and angered people like never before. I predict that the next election – whenever that comes, will have a huge turnout!
I read the following over at SDA and thought you might be interested as it is obvious that this has now come to pass.
From CP
A prominent newspaper columnist warned, however, that federalists shouldn’t be too gleeful about a federal government supported by the Bloc.
“Michel David described how Jacques Parizeau – the former PQ premier who led the independence forces in the 1995 referendum – envisioned the Bloc’s role at the time of its inception.
Parizeau predicted in 1991 that the Bloc would create a chaotic “Italian-style parliament” in Ottawa, a place so dysfunctional that it would help lead to the breakup of Canada.”
H/T to Jon over at SDA for bringing it out.
And Thanks to you Joanne for keeping us all up to date and helping us to have a place to vent. The internet has given the ordinary Canadian a voice and the Cabal of Losers did not,obviously, expect the type of backlash their tin pot dictator-like coup would unleash. Frankly, neither did I!
Now that the sovereigntists have openly declared that the coalition helps their cause the inescapable conclusion is that each member of the coalition is helping to advance the separatist cause in Quebec (not to mention Alberta). That makes each every one of them a traitor and a disgrace to Canada. Bring on an election. Their theme song can be “We helped the sovereigntist cause” with a chorus form the Press Gallery “Harper made us do it”.
What a fitting legacy for Stephane Dion – Chief Federal accomplice to the separatist cause.
Good morning my friends! Hmmm,McKenna out,Manley out,Romanow unsure..only one left in the liblocdipper finance ‘team’ is Paul Martin.Didn’t we vote him off the island?
Saw Goodale on cbc this am,he’s looking a little pale,and when asked how he will square this mess with the West,he had some typical Goodale-esque rant about calls from worried car dealers!NO answer to the question.
BTW,are there any good Sask.people here,especially in that lone Lib riding?I would love an honest reporting of how people there feel.I’m thinking as well,the newly elected dipper in edmonton must be getting some heat.Love to hear about that riding as well.
I saw at Nat.Post,that small protest rally has already happened at NDP member Brian Masse’s office in Ont.
Excellant post as always Joanne. I think it won’t even get to the point of the GG having to decide on election or coalition. Enough opposition MP’s might just be close to deciding to vote with the government.
Here is how it will work:
Harper goes to GG, asks to prorogue the House until January 26th, where a new throne speech will be unveiled, followed by a budget on the 27th. Over the Xmas holidays the PM, Finance Minister, Conservative MP’s, as well as roughly 18 MP’s from the opposition parties sit down and come up with what all agree is an accepteble stimulus package to be included in the budget. Under this scenario NO MP’s will cross the floor. Some may sit as independants until Dion steps down, at which time they will rejoin the party led by Iggy.
I hope to have some info later today I will pass along via e-mail. I think it was Sammy on the previous blog who mentioned Mansbridge looking dejected after having Rick Anderson on. Most people remember Rick from his time with the Reform Party, but he also goes a long way back with the Liberal Party, and is close with many in the party. mansbridge hs reason to look dejected.
oooh paulsstuff..this sounds delicous! I am giddy as a kid on Christmas morn!
I echo the kudos from Alberta Girl and Conservative Reporter.
If prorogation sounds somewhat distasteful, why not simply close down Parliament for the holidays recess?
Sometimes the House closes down for weeks, if not months, and the government keeps on working and functioning, so … it’s feasible.
The GG should simply tell everyone to go home, chill out, and come back when cooler heads – and sanity – can prevail.
Then, on Jan. 27, when the new budget is brought down, all the NDPers and Libs, still in the afterglow of Obama’s inauguration will hopefully see that whatever stimulus our government has to offer needs to be coordinated with that of the US.
Paul, this is like waiting for Christmas!
I’d would love to see a bunch of MP’s cross the floor or sit as Independents and do it in QP today. Time to get this over with.
with regards to possible Proroque request, and from Lorrie Goldstein’s Ottawa Sun column that Joanne linked to …
‘…allowing Harper to suspend Parliament over the Christmas/New Year holiday isn’t radical, since the coalition could vote to defeat the budget in January and bring down the government.
No MSM source that I’ve seen points out that Parliament is recessing regardless on Dec 12th and won’t be back in session until late January.
So we’re talking about ONE WEEK less for this session as the trade-off for allowing the Elected Government a chance to complete and present a Budget.
The Network Television media should all be ashamed of themselves. Time for THEM to Stand Up for Democracy for the good of Canada.
So if we follow events so far, it would appear Dion lost his election, so the opposition leaders decided to help out and have a circle Jack:0)
Sorry, I’m running low on sleep, that sounded funnier in my head :0)
I posted this over at Conservative Reporter’s blog and given Dave’s comment above, thought I would repost here – minus the link because I know it would get caught up in the filter.
I am really getting sick and tired over how the media in this country is gleefully cheering for this cabal of losers (even if they say they don’t, their comments and the looks on their faces belie their words) I am sick and tired over how they are blaming Harper for something that has obviously been in the works for months and was inevitable. I believe many in the media were complicit in it’s inception.
Given how Canadians have risen up and suddenly become interested in politics; maybe those in the media need to get some of that rage for not reporting the whole truth; for letting their Hatred of Harper overshadow their pledge to be fair and balanced.
I found their so called mission statement which if you read it certainly doesn’t sound like the media I have been listening to. google Canadian Press and go to Contact Us, About Us, Our people.
It is now time to turn our anger to the media and how they treat Conservatives and demand better from them as well.
It was good for a laugh,Paul. Thanks.
You are so right Alberta Girl. Turn our anger to the media. They have me raging with their hate for Stephen Harper. We just need email addresses for all of them.
Good read from Peter Foster at Nat.Post:Coming soon:an all-new,all-green NEP.
“M.Dion is good enough to run the country,but not good enough to head the Liberal party”
“Just imagine Jack Layton as either Min.of Env. or industry (it is hard to think which would be worde)Mr.Layton-who is being portrayed as the great mastermind and winner of the coalition-has long wanted to do a kind of Don Quixote in reverse(only with even more delusion):to blanket the country with windmills.
Say what you want about Harper regarding the way he handles the opposition; the way he handles the country stands in stark contrast.
Harper has done more to build a sense of unity across this country than any PM before him. He was truly bringing the country together, one region after another, one ethnic group after another.
The Three Stooges have undone all that good work and torn the bandage off of old wounds. All for the sake of selfish seeking of power. They should be ashamed.
Layton must resign. Dion must go immediatley and not in May. Bob Rae needs to crawl back under his rock, if his rock will have him anymore.
Governor General, please do the right thing and say no to the communist/separatist/loser coaliton.
Haven’t seen any polling yet. I would have thought all the big firms would be all over this. or I am just missing something?
Norm – my thoughts exactly – during the election it was daily polling – maybe they don’t want to hear the answer and they can go along merrily pretending that “62% of Canadians” want this Cabal of Losers to form a Coalition.
I’ll bet they NEVER expected the backlash they are getting.
And yet – the media still continues to blame Harper. Un-friggen-believable!!
Liberal MPs have miscalculated so badly here, it’s ridiculous. Shortly after the election, their caucus foolishly thought they could leave “Frankenstein” Dion in charge for another six months, without much downside. How did that work out guys ? You all might be in another election, with Dion still as your leader !
The Liberal Party Constitution has put these guys in a straight jacket. Dion has to resign, die, or get voted out at a delegated Convention. The LPC Constitution, circa 2002, had a final clause in it (since watered down considerably) along the lines of: “Notwithstanding anything else in this Constitution, the National Executive can do whatever they want if it is in the best interests of the Party”
I’ll bet they wish that old clause was in there now.
If you want a real laugh,I was just listening to CJAD radio out of Mtl,on sat.tv,they had, of all people to comment on this crisis,Julie Coulliard!Here is what she had to say on the threat of the West to separate..put your coffee down before you read this:
“Maybe the west will separate,and finally give us a cheque for all the money we’ve been sending them all these years!!!!”
There was some silence,then the host,sounding astonished corrected this,and told her to maybe do some research!
Sounds like Julie lost a bit of brain power when her “assets” were enlarged.
Even WK is in on the rally to get rid of the PM
They must be all scared of Stephen Harper
“They must be all scared of Stephen Harper”
Ruth – they all know that if they don’t get rid of him, he will continue to take away their entitlements. They are afraid of him because he has changed their cozy little fur covered nest – they cannot let that go on. Hence we see comments that “Conservatives are saying Harper has to go” and “Harper must resign” and Tory MP’s are angry at the PM”. They never provide sources to this, just make the comment.
As Jim Prentice said on MDL yesterday; every single Tory is behind the PM and anything to the contrary is designed to put doubt into supporter’s minds and to encourage the cabal of losers in their quest.
It will become a rallying cry – as Tories, we need to counter it by sending emails of support to Harper and calling these so called “reporters” out on their lies.
God bless Mike Duffy on Canada AM this morning. He interviewed Lisa Raitt and then in his banter with the host, said somethign along the lines of…
[loose paraphrase]Stimulus is in the eye of the beholder. In fact, neutral parties like Don Drummond have said we’ve done all we can wrt stimulus until we see what the Americans do[off]
In 2 minutes, he presented all the downsides of the coalition with Lisa Raitt and demolished the ‘good side’ of it by removing their stimulus argument. The host actually seemed to be in scripted cahoots with Duffy.
Please GG, do not give this unstable Toronto/Separatist cabal our country, not even for 5 minutes!
CJAD (ch.953 0n expressvu) will have Adler,and some other western talk radio guys on at 10:30 eastern.
Dan Cook fr.G&M was just on,basically called Marlene Jennings a liar for her comments about people in favor of the Devildeal.
I watched that too MolerMauler
My sentiments exactly… God Bless Mike Duffy the only member of the National Press Gallery to put Canada first.
http://alsocanadian.blogspot.com/2008/12/toronto-maple-leafs-win-stanley-cup.html
Why does it only appear in 5 second sound bites from Duffy?
The media was so quick to cover the gong show that they have completely ignored the content of the Economic Update presented by Flaherty.
And if the media is trying to ‘start’ rumours that the CPC want to get rid off PMSH, I’ll bet anything they are trying to HIDE the stories of Libs want to get rid of Dion sooner.
I don’t recall this kind of outrage when Harper appointed Fortier to the senate in order to make him a cabinet minister. Of course, it was perfectly acceptable under the rules of our parliamentary democracy.
I guess the rules only matter to you people when it suits.
Ruth I am not sure who WK is…can you enlighten me?
I’m an unhappy camper right now and my unhappiness is directed at John Baird who, it would appear, lied outright yesterday when he made the claim that there was not even one Canadian flag present at the press conference of the unholy coalition.
The implication was that the Bloc were calling the shots already.
Well, it appears that there was a Canadian flag.
In fact there seemed to be a flag for every province in Canada present with a Canadian flag at the end of the row.
This may seem like small potatoes but I believed Baird and even related the item both here on Joanne’s blog and at work.
This really does bother me but I’m not as worried about my reputation as much as I am worried about the direction the Conservatives argument seems to be going in.
That the Libs and Dippers are in bed with the Bloc Quebecois and that’s not good for Canada.
That seems to be the argument that most blog posters are using too and it’s way off base.
The problem here is NOT that the Bloc is involved with the coalition!!!
The Conservatives must stop using this argument as the basis for their defense.
If the Dippers had won a majority of seats in Quebec would this coalition be more legitimate?
What if a new federal party had been formed out of the remnants of the tattered Quebec Liberals and then decided to join the coalition?
Would that make the coalition more legitimate?
No.
This coalition has been formed to bring down a minority government simply because the government was going to cancel party funding and none of the opposition parties seem to like Stephen Harper very much yet he happens to be very popular with Canadians.
That’s why Scott Reid wrote that the opposition should ‘kill’ Harper while they had the chance.
I’m a Quebecer, born and raised in Montreal (Verdun), and I truly love my province. I don’t live there anymore but that doesn’t mean it no longer holds a place in my heart.
I’m willing to bet that most Quebecers would be bemused by all that is happening in the world of english Canada but would be supportive of Harper in the long run, however, if the Conservatives start to argue against the coalition based solely on the involvement of the separatists then I believe that Quebecers will take that as a huge slight and turn on them.
That is what Duceppe is hoping for.
Judging by the posts on this blog, among others, people are passionate about their dislike for the Bloc and seem to discredit the whole coalition based on that dislike alone.
The real reasons for this coup are being lost.
Harper wanted to remove federal funding of poltical parties and Harper himself is (was) hugely popular.
NeilD
Brush up on Canadian political history Anne Deacon:
In anticipation of by-elections in early 1996, Jean Chrétien appointed two new “star candidates” from Quebec – Stéphane Dion and Pierre Pettigrew – to Cabinet. On January 25, 1996, Dion was named Minister of Intergovernmental Affairs”
And yes, it is perfectly acceptable.
Wow Joanne, what sensational links. I’ve been real busy.
I must agree with all of you re, the Harper, digs. They are coming from the most unusual people too. Ones that I would have thought would see this for what it was,a trap to flush them out.
I am more convinced that ever that this was being hatched in Jack Layton’s mind as a, What if?
I commented last night, that I keep thinking back to the debates……how cozy they all were and really not to confrontational, except with PMSH.
They had more to loose with each other in most cases than with PMSH… Why no conflict?….the plot thickens.
NeilD,
In defence of John Baird, you did not see flags during the media coverage. They were NOT behind the 3 STOoges but off to the sides. The camera did not catch them until this DRAMA and someone has pulled out angle shot that you see the flags. Iwatched it LIVE and thought the exact same thing. Anyone would!
WK is Warren Kinsella
Here is his Blog.
National Newswatch describes WKs latest posting as:
KInsella’s somewhat cryptic message to coalition’s wavering Liberal MPs?
WK…Warren Kinsella.
Neil…the Bloc has no concern for the rest of Canada. That is a strong basis for the outrage. This should not be assumed as anti-Quebec, this is protest against the party that is anti-Canada( except for when it comes to money)
You are right about the lack of focus on the important issue.They hate Harper because he is strong, decisive, and good for Canada and has no interest in the games of the Power core and Strong. Has the media played any part in the distraction?…yes huge!
paulsstuff posted:
http://alsocanadian.blogspot.com/2008/12/toronto-maple-leafs-win-stanley-cup.html
BREAKING NEWS (re link above):
Now that we life long Habs fans, have had time to reflect on the long history, values, and traditions of the Montreal Canadians, a decision is being taken to pull out of this Coalition, and return the Cup to the team that actually earned it.
Sorry Leaf fans … you’ll just have to try harder.
“I guess the rules only matter to you people when it suits.”
And another left wing supporter drops by to try to justify the unjustifiable.
Anne – DWT brought out the appointments by Chretien. How about the fact that Cretien only had 38% of the popular vote and there was no Cabal of Losers formed. What was Paul Martin’s percentage when he had a minority and yet there was no “agreement” signed because the majority had voted for parties other than the Liberals. What about Belinda’s being given a cabinet post for her support crossing the floor? And what about the NDP working with the Liberals to stay in power.
See Anne, sweetie, it is all in the eye of the beholder, isn’t it. You are right about one thing though. The rules only apply when it suits, right Anne.
Jo, funny you wrote that in bold. It has gone through my mind that if this goes through, we just may have voted in our last election. There is no doubt in my mind that if they will go to these extents to attain power they will do absolutely anything to keep it. It would not surprise me to see them try to tinker with our election laws.
NeilD, I am surprised at you.
It has already been established that this cynical coalition was being put together long before the Government had put their economic update on the table.
This grab for power was going to happen no matter what.
To say that Mr. Harper caused this is nonsense.
The real reasons for this coup are being lost.
Harper wanted to remove federal funding of poltical parties
Prove it. If you can’t prove it then it’s circumstantial or speculation. It might not stick especially with a compliant MSM.
I don’t hate the Bloc I’m against what they stand for. The facts are that they will have the balance of power in a coalition, their cause has been aided and abetted by every member within the coalition, they’ve been offered a billion dollar bribe to temporarily tow the line. These facts should be enough to outrage any Canadian.
NeilD @ December 3rd, 2008 at 10:21 am, you are right on!
The thing that offends me most is the argument that a majority of Canadians voted against the Conservatives. I’ve already posted some results (blasts from the past, as it were) when that argument was not used against Liberal minorities.
Here’s some more data (posted yesterday at Sandy’s):
Ontario election results 2007:
Liberal 42.23%
Conservative 31.64%
NDP 16,76% Green 8.03%
56.43% did NOT vote for the Ontario Liberals. Is there a coalition in the works? Should there be?
2003 Ontario election results:
Liberal 46.4%
Conservative 34.6%
NDP 14.7%
Green 2.8%
52.1% did NOT vote for the Ontario Liberals. Was there a coalition in the works? Should there have been?
Do you see how ridiculous it can get?
I realize some Ontarians were not happy with the results, but that’s the way our system works. The party that gets the most seats gets to govern!
Maybe the people who use the silly “majority didn’t vote for Harper” argument would like to see an absolute majority, like this one: http://afp.google.com/article/ALeqM5g4MaZo53_PWfZhiE26s0ToD8XvYw
Something else that should not be overlooked, this IS indeed a coup d’état that was already in the works even during the election.
An Anonymous poster at Chucker’s posted this:
http://www.thespec.com/News/BreakingNews/article/43923
Layton opens the door to coalition government
September 22, 2008
NDP Leader Jack Layton is refusing to rule out a coalition government with Stéphane Dion’s Liberals if that’s what it takes to oust Prime Minister Stephen Harper.
Blasting Harper on everything from the environmental damage in the Alberta tar sands to the war in Afghanistan, Layton said this morning it’s time to move Canada in a different direction.
Asked on CTV’s Canada AM if he would “entertain even the notion of entering into a coalition with the Liberals in order to get the Conservatives out of power,” the New Democrat stressed he’s never allowed partisanship to trump the greater public good.
”Well, you know what, I’ve worked with any other party. I think people have seen that if they look back to my days on a municipal council,” said Layton, a former Toronto councillor and one-time president of the Federation of Canadian Municipalities.
“You roll up your sleeves and you try to solve a problem,” he said. ”I think right now the problem we have is Stephen Harper and his Conservatives. They’re taking the country down the wrong path. They’re much too close to a (U.S. President) George Bush style foreign policy when it comes to the war in my view.”
That Anonymous poster was using that article against Harper, but the point remains, the C O A L I T I O N was already taking place back in September. This is a naked grab for power, nothing more, nothing less, fuelled by a pathological hatred of Mr. Harper.
Gabby – when I go to that link – all I get is a bunch of ads? I would like to use it to smackdown some of the idiotic left wing supporters that seem to think that Harper caused this little fiasco.
Bec, thanks for pointing that out. I feel a little better but I’m now somewhat surprised that he wasn’t better informed. The optics didn’t look good on CTV this morning when the issue was raised by Bob Fife. There was indeed a Canadian flag in the screen shot and they cut right away to a slightly agitated Dion screaming “LIAR” at Harper.
Lee, for the life of me I can’t find anywhere in my last post where I accused Harper of causing all of this.
Mind you, he did poke a stick in their eye with the funding cut proposal but I don’t think anyone expected this sort of response.
The blame for this attempted coup lies squarely at the feet of both Dion and Layton. I think Duceppe is just along for the ride.
Gabby, I love your stats.
NeilD
Yikes! Just catching up here after my workout. This is going to take a while. Thanks for all the links & tips, guys!
Funny thing, my workout friends and I were talking about this whole thing over coffee afterwards, and they are ALL furious – even the lady who voted Green.
Calgary Junkie,that link to WK’s blog should have come with a sharp caution before sending some poor unsuspecting newbie over there! Shame on you!!!!
Did any of you listen to Adler on Mtl radio? His question of the week:”when will Ignatieff grow a sack?”,and then,”and he (Iggy) thinks he deserves Trudeau’s mantle”
Adler went on to say,that he thinks PMSH will get ‘the completion of the last election’ if we go to polls again.
It was great radio for sure.
570News just said the PM is addressing the nation tonight at 7pm
I just read the piece by Goldstein/Berton and I was very surprised.
Berton is still claiming that Manley and McKenna are on board.
Goldstein does a wonderful job of pointing out that Mr. Harper is not at fault – this was going to happen no matter what.
I looked all over and could not find an email address to send a comment.
This morning, I went through all of the “opinions” on NNW (those blaming Mr. Harper of course), and none of the cowards had a way of contacting them.
Sorry, Alberta Girl, I forgot. You have to type in the search engine “Layton etc.”
or try this one: http://www.thespec.com/printArticle/439238
NeilD, did you try out the smiley face yet? (see previous thread).
Thanks Gabby
Because we all need a chuckle every so often, even in very tense times …
here are some suggestions for “name that coalition” (which I hope & pray doesn’t come to pass) courtesy of David Akin’s blog:
http://guelphmercury.blogs.com/from_the_editors/2008/12/name-that-coalition.html
SDA did something similar, I know.
NeilD@10:21
“This coalition has been formed to bring down a minority government simply because the government was going to cancel party funding and none of the opposition parties seem to like Stephen Harper very much yet he happens to be very popular with Canadians”.
Its not a big deal, Neil, I just had to check to make sure i hadnt read it wrong.
Mike Duffy interviewed Bob Fife just after 12pm Eastern, and Bob did a Great job of giving a free plug to Big Unions setting up Facebook sites and organizing demonstrations across the country to support the Coalition.
Not a single peep about the Canadians for Democracy Facebook site that is going ballistic with support.
http://www.facebook.com/group.php?gid=51442165364&ref=mf
Gaining about 2000 members AN HOUR! Folks, joinif you haven’t already and send Invites to your Friends, Family, Co-workers. Send this site to the television media as well. How long will they ignore Canadians for democracy.
Sammy, a lot of the comments on WK are on our side.
Check out Andrew Coyne’s latest two pieces here.
In the first one he makes the point that within the coalition itself, the Liberals are in a minority, i.e. Dion may be leader, but Jack and Gilles have more seats.
In the second one he references a piece by Macleans reporter Mitch Raphael dated November 17th which confirms the details of the NDP/Bloc conspiracy.
I was a bit saddened to see Justin Trudeau wade into the controversy with little more to add than the usual coalition rhetoric.
NeilD
Bourque quotes sources saying that Layton will be Deputy PM. Read it and weep. Lord, have mercy.
It should be clear to those with brains that can put two and two together that this coalition was pulled together during the election, but what’s needed is an exact timeline. Is there a chronology of all of this? It would help tremendously to prove to those dipstick media types that Harper did NOT engineer this out of wanting to screw over the oppositions.
One really valuable tidbit that sticks out in my mind after reading the columnists today was the great one in Christina Blizzard’s column in the Toronto Sun. In it, NDP leader Howard Hamption cautions Jack Laytong against Bob Rae. He warns Layton the Bob Rae has ALWAYS wanted to see the NDP rolled into a coalition with the Liberals. That makes Rae’s hand in all of this even clearer, AND
it means that Bob Rae hasn’t changed his stripes or his ways since he sunk Ontario as Premier. Now he’s helping to sink the Liberals.
I’ve just returned from my MP’s constituency office.
Firstly, there were five people sitting talking to the MP’s EA. Me included. We were told that in the first hour of business this morning there were over 100 phone calls, faxes, and emails….ALL against the coalition. I kept looking at a guy in the room who was speaking against the Bloc and Dion, but couldn’t remember where I knew him from…and then it hit me…..he’s a neighbour of mine who is a known supporter of the Liberals…actually had a Liberal sign in his lawn this past election.
The news is good folks. Keep supporting our PM because there is no way he’s going to stop fighting….not in the short term anyways!
NDP Peter Julian is on Rutherford right now trying to justify this mess.
I heard that Mr. Harper will be addressing the nation tonight at 7 pm. The ragtag three have requested equal time to further their cause. Whether they appear as a group, each individually, as couples, or singles is unknown.
I know that the television stations are able to track viewers, so the thought I had was that there will be many people watching the PM tonight, but when the “coalition” comes on, each of us should change the channel.
Mr. Dion, Mr. Layton and Mr. Duceppe did not listen to the Canadian public after the election, so why, in reality, should we listen to them now.
Mr. Dion was rejected; Mr. Layton was rejected;, Mr. Duceppe was rejected.
It is time to let them know that NO MEANS NO!
DWT – I heard that the networks rejected having more than Dion – The Coalition Leader (has quite the ring to it, eh), speak after the P.M. … to their credit.
Layton and Duceppe both wanted to speak after Dion. Hey, if it had gone that way, Liz May might have jumped in there too, since she is already taking measurements in one of the empty Senate offices. Scary stuff this.
The PM will speak tonight and all opposition leaders have asked for equal time. Gee, I thought they had a coalition so only one should speak in response. Is this what the coalition is, in name only, but each party wants to be heard on its own.
Will the coalition hold if an election is called, will they run one candidate, chosen by straws, to see which party gets on the ballot.
I’m pretty sure that after paul Martin addressed the nation when the truth of Adscam came out the opposition parties did not get equal time, only a few minutes each. So I would imagine the coalition of morons will stick to that precedent.
Hopefully harper’s speech will rattle Dion, who’s english becomes even more mangled when he gets his feathers ruffled.
I am thinking that the Liberals saw how popular Jack Layton and the NDP were becoming and thought that they should take them down to protect themselves. Dion is going to be gone anyway, why not have him sucker Layton into a “coalition” so that when it fails, as it will inevitably will, Layton goes down too. The NDP then finds itself at the bottom of the barrel again with the Liberals (and their new leader) safely ensconsed back in the centre-left of the political spectrum. The Liberals were led in this direction by that “failed” leader Dion and have been turned around by their (and the country’s) saviour Rae/Ignatief/Manley/JT/Whoever.
Breaking! Don Martin has tentative list of Cab.Mins.
MINISTER OF INDUSTRY JACK LAYTON Link at Nat.Newswatch
http://russ-campbell.blogspot.com/2008/12/who-said-these-words.html
Check out Ivison in the Post. An excerpt:
One suspects that many Canadians are also beginning to clue into the fact that the deal between the Liberals and NDP will last until mid-2011, and that there is no commitment to seek a mandate from the people in the interim. Yet our parliamentary tradition is that newly appointed Prime Ministers seek electoral sanction within six months. Louis St. Laurent, the former Liberal Prime Minister, holds the record for the longest period between his appointment (November 15, 1948) and his election (June 27th, 1949) but at least his party already had the endorsement of Canadian voters.
This lack of legitimacy is not lost on some members of the Liberal caucus. Keith Martin, the MP from Vancouver Island, said that if Mr. Harper were to offer to work with the opposition parties, perhaps by putting together a bi-partisan economic team to create a stimulus package, the need for a coalition government would dissolve.
Mr. Martin, who acted as a catalyst for compromise in parliament on the Afghan mission debate earlier this year, said there are many Liberals in caucus who would embrace a genuine olive branch from the Prime Minister. “It would be the responsible thing to do,” he said in an interview yesterday.
Mr. Harper looked in no mood for compromise in the House yesterday. When it was put to him that he’d played footsie with Gilles Duceppe and the Bloc in 2005, as he attempted to unseat Paul Martin, he produced an internal Bloc letter that said the coalition agreement created a “mechanism of permanent consultation, empowering the Bloc on every question of importance.”
“This Prime Minister, this government, this party has never and never will sign a document like that,” he roared.
Having rediscovered the heart and nerve and sinew for the fight, it seems doubtful that Mr. Harper is going to be in a diplomatic mood. But, as he tours the country rallying support over the coming weeks, he should think seriously about proposals from political rivals, like Mr. Martin, who still have the national interest at heart.
Politics could see him survive into the next week; diplomacy might see him survive into the new year.
C.C. @ December 3rd, 2008 at 12:44 pm:
” … this coalition was pulled together during the election, but what’s needed is an exact timeline.”
I don’t have an EXACT timeline, but I found some interesting articles. I’m going to post the links separately to prevent getting caught in the filter. Notice the date of this first article:
http://www.straightgoods.ca/Election2008/ViewNews.cfm?Ref=39
Layton hints at possible Liberal-NDP coalition
Dion unveils ‘safe economic’ platform, vowing to scrap income-trust tax and to scale back Kelowna Accord.
Dateline: *Tuesday, September 23, 2008*
By Steven Chase, Bill Curry and Tu Thanh Ha
Globe and Mail, September 22, 2008 — NDP Leader Jack Layton refused Monday to rule out the possibility of entering an alliance with the federal Liberals to prevent another Harper government.
“I’ve worked with any other party. I think people have seen that. Maybe it goes back to my days on municipal council — you roll up your sleeves and you try to solve a problem,” Mr. Layton said in an interview with CTV’s Canada AM.
“I think right now the problem we have is Stephen Harper and his Conservatives. They’re taking the country down the wrong path.” …
Then there’s this one. Again notice the date:
http://thetyee.ca/Views/2008/10/06/CoalitionTime/?utm_source=mondayheadlines&utm_medium=email&utm_campaign=061008
Dion, Layton, May: Time Has Come to Craft a Coalition
Elements for a majority.
A centre-left government is doable. See Europe.
By John Ryan Published: *October 6, 2008*
TheTyee.ca
If the Conservatives do not get a majority in this election, Canada could still get a majority government. This could happen if the Liberals, NDP and the Greens (if they elect any members) formed a coalition. Such a coalition government would reflect the majority of Canadians who do not support the Conservatives. The Conservatives received only 36 per cent of the vote in the last election and, with a slight shift of fortunes, they may get less in the coming election. However, when the substantial majority of over 60 per cent gets split among four other competing parties, the Conservatives — with a minority of the vote — could wind up forming the government. This need not happen. …
I won’t be posting more until QP is over, I’m not too good at multitasking.
BTW, I forgot:
“Gabby, I love your stats.
NeilD”
blush* nobody ever noticed them before *
Thanks Gabby. I’ll go through them closely, not for myself but to better show folks who normally don’tfollow politics and are inclined to believe the spinners and MSM
Well, well, what an interesting morning it has been reading the newspapers.
http://www.wernerpatels.com/2008/12/the-unholy-alli.html
Gary Mason, of the Globe, has called the Liberals and the NDP “morally dishonest” and says that for them, it’s all about power and nothing else.
And the whole promise of the council of “wise men”, the staple in the Unholy Alliance’s economic plan, has turned to be a big fat lie.
The GG would be a fool to hand the government to a bunch of blatant liars like that.
I just want to go on record here saying that if there was another election and the Coalition campaigned as one party and was elected by the people, I would have no problem with the results.
That would mean only two major parties running across Canada (including Quebec).
I apologize for the length of this post but I received this as an email and am posting it here. It was written by Chuck Strahl on Nov 30 2008. In it he outlines what the Tories have been doing and shows the opposition is only concerned about power.
“A Political Crisis?
By Chuck Strahl MP
November 29, 2008
Last week I sent around an update on Canada’s economic situation, with the observation that it wasn’t a very enjoyable subject to write about. Unfortunately, this week it appears that our economic woes are morphing into a political crisis of sorts, at a time when we can least afford it. What’s happening in Ottawa is bordering on the absurd, but its impact would be felt most harshly by Canadians, not political parties. It is potentially a shame of historic proportions.
The Throne Speech I wrote about last week has now been passed. The Opposition Parties apparently had no trouble supporting the direction of the Conservative government, and in fact, they let it pass “on division”, which means they didn’t even want a stand up vote! When the Finance Minister tabled his economic update, though, things got ugly, mostly because the speech made reference to politicians and political parties receiving less from the government coffers. Suddenly, the Liberals and NDP want to form an alternative government, apparently by joining forces in a coalition, and supported by the separatist Bloc Quebecois.
This unholy alliance is trying to paint a different picture, of course. They say they simply want to spend more money to stimulate the economy, but when asked for details, it’s pretty thin gruel. Apparently they’re prepared to take the ‘ready, shoot, aim” approach to spending, and agree to some blank cheques without even knowing what will actually help specific industries, without knowing what Barak Obama has planned, and without working in concert with the other G-20 countries. It is a recipe for a fiscal disaster.
More importantly, it is a democratic disaster. During the campaign, Liberal leader Stephane Dion said he would not and could not have a coalition with the NDP, because their policies would destroy the economy. Apparently that principled position has now gone out the window. Now we have the prospect of the Liberals (with 77 seats) joining with the NDP (with 37 seats) to unseat the democratically elected Conservatives (with 143 seats) . Of course, the only way to do that would be with the support of the separatist Bloc Quebecois, who bring their votes to the table in exchange for their separatist agenda. It is almost beyond belief, but apparently the back room discussions amongst these parties are happening as I write this note.
As I said last week, our Conservative government has been preparing our economy for over a year to weather this world-wide economic storm as best we can. We have brought in almost $200 billion dollars in economic stimulus over a 5 year period, by lowering taxes across the board and in every category. We have freed up billions more by adopting Bank of Canada policies and mortgage protection that have increased the availability of credit and addressed liquidity issues, without costing the taxpayer too much and without risking our country’s core stability. The IMF, the World Economic Forum, the OECD and other international organizations are united in their opinions that Canada is in the best shape of any industrialized nation in the world. Now the left-leaning parties in Parliament are willing to risk it all in order to gain power through the back door, power that was denied to them in a general election.
In order to diffuse this crisis, our government has agreed to separate the political party financing issue from the confidence vote, and we’ll be bringing it back to Parliament in a stand-alone Bill for a vote next year. Whether a person believes the taxpayer should be forced to pay for political party finances will be debated and decided at another time. I’ll be supporting the Bill when it comes to a vote, and we’ll see what happens. For now, Canadians should be appalled that we could be thrown into a democratic and constitutional crisis by an attempt to gain power at any cost, to overthrow the democratically expressed will of the Canadian people, all at a critically important economic time for us all.
I’m uncertain where all of this is going, but it is entirely possible that the Conservatives could lose the confidence of Parliament and be forced into an election within days. You can’t run the government without revenue, and we simply must have the authority to pay the bills and stick to the agenda already approved in the Throne Speech. But it is also entirely possible that the Conservatives could be forced from government by the Liberal/NDP/Bloc coalition, if the Governor General agrees. Canada deserves better than either of these options, and we’ll be working hard to keep everyone focused on the economy, jobs, and a sound budgetary plan. We believe Canadians want us to get on with governing. But I just don’t know what will happen, and I share Canadian’s shock and anger that we’re teetering on this abyss at this critical time.
The vote to bring down the government will now take place on December 8th, so Canadians have a week or so to express themselves before that critical moment. I urge everyone to write a letter-to-the editor, call a radio talk show, circulate this article (or others) through their own email list, and contact political parties with their opinion. A strong grassroots reaction may be the only thing that stands between us and a Prime Minister Stephane Dion and Finance Minister Jack Layton.”
Right, Joanne, this is exactly what I just posted on my site too. If they had a clear mandate, we wouldn’t be complaining. We could be angry at the outcome, but eventually we’d accept the democratic outcome and simply resolve to work this much harder in the future. But this “coalition” has no mandate, no legitimacy, and is therefore utter BS.
Three Stooges Rebellion just proved an old adage
One boy ia a boy.
Two boys are half a boy.
And three boys are not a boy at all.
Russ Campbell has this bang on:
http://russ-campbell.blogspot.com/2008/12/what-happened-to-equal-time.html
The prime minister, Stephen Harper, is expected to address Canadians tonight and it is usual for the opposition to receive equal time. But now tricky Jack Layton wants to end that practice; he wants his side—Liberal/NDP/Bloc coalition/alliance—to have double the time the government gets.
Jack doesn’t seem to get it. He has traded his party’s independence for seats at the Liberal table. There is no longer any such thing as an independent New Democrat voice, it’s as simple as that. Stéphane Dion now is the de facto spokesperson for the NDP, not Jack.
From now on, we have a de facto two-party parliament plus a couple of independent members.
Jack’s just embarrassing himself. Hopefully a helpful New Democrat will be kind and take the fellow aside and explain the ramifications of what he has done.
Jack just does not get it.
http://www.thestar.com/federalelection/article/516393
May says to vote NDP or Liberal in close ridings
Oct 12, 2008 05:13 Pm
MICHAEL TUTTON
THE CANADIAN PRESS
“HALIFAX – Green party voters should consider voting either NDP or Liberal in tight races to avoid a Conservative victory, says Green Leader Elizabeth May.
With just two days until the federal election, May said in an interview on Sunday “there’s no question that there are some ridings where you might say to vote green you ought to vote NDP to stop a Conservative from winning, and in some ridings you might want to vote Liberal to stop a Conservative from winning.”
But she said she also “profoundly disagrees” with Liberal Leader Stephane Dion’s assertion that Green party voters across the country should switch to the Liberals. …”
Saw this name for the new tri-party that stands for nothing:New Libs and the Bloc!
Golden response to dryden in QP today from Pierre Pollievre: “On this side of the House WE are still playing for the Canadians!!” Honest to God,it was a ‘fist-pump,right-on,you go Pierre’ moment.
Wow it has been a time that Canadian politics have moved so many to put themselves out there …
Hi Joanne . I have no alternative notion ,other than to comment on the present political situation and merely comment …If , and that is IF the present PM wants to hand out a Olive branch to maintain his present status he should IMOO select a cabinet that will embrace each and every party to participate in the government of this country …Other than that …Let the GG decision fall where it may …
Here’s another article talking about a possible NDP/Lib coalition. Again notice the date (day after election)
http://election.globaltv.com/topstorydetail.aspx?sectionid=223&postid=50942
10-15-2008
ANALYSIS: Is a united left now a possibility?
Ashley Terry
Canwest News Service
“ …“The Liberals think they’re going to form the government again,” says Wiseman. With this expectation, the party is unlikely to make any major concessions involved in merging. …
In the short term, there is much greater chance of seeing a coalition than a merger. The prospect was raised early in the campaign by Jack Layton and acknowledged recently by Stephen Harper. It could be a real possibility next time Canadians head to the polls.
The agreement between Dion and May not to run candidates in each other’s ridings is a start. In Flanagan’s opinion, they are further along than any of the other parties. “If anything was going to happen, I would think the first domino to fall would be the Liberal-Green cooperation.”
A coalition could take many forms. One would be for the Liberals to leave a number of cabinet seats to be filled by the other parties and they would come to an agreement on four or five of the key issues like health care and the environment.
Ryan [Sid Ryan, president of CUPE Ontario and former NDP candidate] is in favour of this form of coalition, and says many others are as well. “Everywhere I go people on the left are saying this,” he says. “I’d rather see that approach than see Harper dominate the government. …”
TangoJuliette sez:
These Doctrinaire SeparaLeftist goofs have certainly put a series of New Faces into my Thesaurus of Evil.
The new Canadian definitions of treason?
The Canadian Quisling Triumvirate ?
Les Quislings Canadian – part deux = times three.
A Compendium of Dunces.
The Alliance of Asses.
The Canadian Coaliton of Semi-Comedic KeystoneKop Klutzes.
As for those Goofy ones from the kingdom of the Doctrinaire SeparaLeftist [doesn't that sound like something out of the Bra consortium?]
And the dorkish gang of three, “Jack and Gilles and Jiminy Cricket messin’ on The Hill” – these three fools are REALLY ticking me off. Ditto Scott Reid and EllyMae and WK.
t.e.&o.e.
tj
OK, I’m going to give you all a break and stop posting links etc. but allow me one last thing today.
You know how politicians, especially the “progressive” kind, blather on about how much they have Canadians’ welfare at heart, and how THEY are listening to Canadians?
Well, of the ones I’ve emailed (I figured I wouldn’t email EVERY MP) the only response I received … drumroll … TADAA! was from the office of the PM (an automatic response, granted, not a personal one).
I think he might be just a tiny bit busy right now, so I don’t expect a personal note from him.
The others (non-conservatives) did not even issue an automatic response.
The GG’s office did, immediately after I sent my email.
Gabby in QC Says:
December 3rd, 2008 at 4:00 pm ….The GG’s office did, immediately after I sent my email.
OK I am in suspence ..what did Michel’s office have to say ?
BREAKING: Ndp icon Bill Blaikie says Ndp may abandon coalition if Harper relents on some economic issues
I have done my civic duty and sent the GG my email. Here it is:
http://www.wernerpatels.com/2008/12/email-to-the-go.html
The most important element in all of this Amateur Hour Coup D’etat is when it was concocted.
The Dippers and the Bloc started it then the Liberals were invited in as the dupes headed by the supreme dope, Dion. This is the author of the Clarity Act now ready to sell the soul of the country to the Separatists to have their way with it.
This mad pact cannot be viable without the Bloc, the Bloc can call the shots. Parizeau knows it, Duceppe knows it. The Liberals will deny it because they are pathological liars. The dippers will deny it because this is as close as they can ever get to having power.
Looking forward to our Prime Minister’s speech tonight. Expect him to spell it out in plain language, not gobbledygook Bull crap we’ve been hearing from the desperados trying to take over our country.
BREAKING: Ndp icon Bill Blaikie says Ndp may abandon coalition if Harper relents on some economic issues
Paul, do you have a link for that?
Paul – sounds like Bill Blaikie is speaking for the NDP? and Jack’s not????? Interesting.
And now Bob Rae on MDL has the audacity to insinuate that the uproar is due to a Tory Fan Out and not because ordinary Canadians are upset. Talk about lying!!!
That’s a headline on Borque Joanne. More to follow.
AG, Bob Rae is an ass. He just keeps showing how little respect he has for average Canadian’s who don’t share his dimented socialist ideology.
“Bob Rae is an ass”
“..BOB RAE HAS ALWAYS WANTED TO FOLD THE NDP INTO THE LIBERAL PARTY….”
(from Christina Blizzard’s column in the Tor. Sun today)
This came from a once fellow NDP under Bob Rae – Ont. NDP leader Howard Hampton. Many of those old Rae colleagues still hate Bob Rae…so to Ontarians.
It tells me that Rae’s finger prints are all over this deal…and he sucker Layton’s ego, and Dion’s stuborness, and the Bloc for good measure to prove what a nice happy family we’ll have in governance.
These guys are all out to lunch if they think we are all just phoning and writing because we are a bunch of Conservative workers. We need an election. They’d be shocked.
So it appears that the latest talking point from the Cabal is that we are all Tory plants and when you talk to the “ordinary” citizen – they are all in favour.
So far – Bob Rae, Dawn Black, Keith Martin and Peter Julian have all said the same thing.
My blood is boiling.
Oh here;s another talking point -different messages in french and english.
we sure think alike Alberta Girl. I’m boiling too.
So mad, I can’t even type.
I’ve listened to Dave Rutherford and CFRA in Ottawa online and all those calls just cannot be from Conservative plants. Can’t the host tell where the calls are coming from.
Thanks Paul.
Yeah, Bob Rae is so incredibly arrogant. He’s worse than Iggy I think.
I would say we should all email MD and tell him that he has been snookered if he actually believes the fact that he heard the same thing from four members of the Liberals.
Watching Graham Richardson on MDL. Apparently the ASSES in the press trotted out in the dark to get shots of the GG’s plane arriving and her motorcade leaving for Government House. Richardson mentioned a rally at 24 Sussex saying there were many of Conservative Staffers there.
Dawn Black, Dipper MP told Duffy the Bloc is on board because they want to see an economic stimulus for Quebec.Wow,there we have it, the understatement of the whole affair.
The Liberals and Dippers are accusing the Conservatives of e-mailing form messages out. Pardon, I do not know of any such thing going on, we are ordinary folks sending out our own messages, that’s what’s got them riled.
The media is doing a yeoman’s job of getting this coalition into power.
The talk shows are deluged with angry emails and not one of them is alike word for word.
That’s what we’re dealing with at this crucial time folks, media playing politics skewing the facts all around to manipulate opinion.
Newman is more biased than ever on CBC. He makes me ill.
“Richardson mentioned a rally at 24 Sussex saying there were many of Conservative Staffers there.”
This is the latest – spread the rumors that it is only Tories who are upset and Tories are the ones driving the uproar.
Julian said that only the Tories that lived in Southern Alberta were the negative ones that he’s heard from.
Well I live in Southern Ontario and I know a lot of upset people here.
Newman is definitely going for that Liberal senate seat appointment, no doubt about it.
“Julian said that only the Tories that lived in Southern Alberta were the negative ones that he’s heard from.
Well I live in Southern Ontario and I know a lot of upset people here.”
Well, then, it’s time to contact him. I’ve emailed/called Jackass Layton, Dion, Keith Martin, Iggy, Dosanjh, James Moore and the PM and the GG. He’s next.
The media is out for PM Harper people, Fife just called PM Harper a dictator on MDL.
Wow, wow..
How can they blame this Harper is beyond me…
“The Liberals and Dippers are accusing the Conservatives of e-mailing form messges out.”
We are average Canadians, no political expertise, who have not received any ‘talking points’ or ‘form letters’ from the Prime Minister’s office or my MP’s office. We live in a smaller community some distance from our captial city. Due to local commitments, we are unable to attend the rally. We wanted to show our support for the PM and our Gov’t and decided the best way for us to do that was to share our opinions over the internet. We support our Conservative MP and our Prime Minister. Message to Dawn Black — we support Democracy and we do not need anyone to tell us how to make up our own minds!
When this is over – our next target needs to be the media in this country. They cannot be allowed to spread their hate towards our Prime Minister.
The CTV is definitely shilling for the coalition. Now the media are telling us that all the letters are plants. I already sent MDL about not standing up for those of us that email him.
I believe we are not seeing poll results because they all support the conservatives. Only one did not so that is the one shown.Peter Donolo is on giving his opinion but no data from a poll. What a sell job by the Msm!!!
How in the world did we all vent before we had Joanne.
Thanks so much.
The media is the most dangerous entity against the stability of this country. We do not get truth and we do not get facts. The spin and lies I’ve listened to since 5PM today is enough to spin Alice right into the Rabbit hole in record time.
Anyone notice how Paul Martin is standing with the coalition, maybe the only has been who is and he is the one who chose this GG on the advice of a defeated Liberal candidate who recommended her. Martin didn’t care, he took little time on the matter, he was too busy fighting for his own interests.
I’m sick of it all. We may yet have to have a civil war all because the media hate all things conservative even when the people choose them.
I think we need to start holding rallies outside CBC and CTV stations.
By the way, I just left a message and an email for Julian. How dare they accuse us of spouting talking points. What, just because we are not “progressives” we can’t make our opinion heard? Now I’m mad.
Terry @ December 3rd, 2008 at 4:40 pm:
“The GG’s office did, immediately after I sent my email.”
OK I am in suspence ..what did Michel’s office have to say ?
Sorry to disappoint you. Perhaps I didn’t make it clear. Just before saying “The GG’s office did, immediately after I sent my email” I wrote “The others (non-conservatives) did not even issue an automatic response.”
I took it for granted readers would understand I received an “automatic response” from the GG’s office, not a personal note.
I imagine the GG’s office must be inundated with emails, but at least there was an acknowledgement of my email.
There was no such thing from the non-conservative MPs.
Joanne,
I think that PM Harper in his address tonight will sayin that he is proroguing parliament, but at the same time extend an offer to the other parties to provide input on the economic stimulus that will part of the next budget. This will have both the effect of offering an olive branch to the 3 Stooges and show the Canadian people that he is willing to work out a compromise to this political standoff. If he does that, my bet is that there is sufficient division in the Liberal ranks that more than a dozen Liberal MPs would try an pressure Dion into taking up the offer as it gives the Liberals an honourable way out. Mike Duffy on Newsnet indicated that at least one senior opposition MP indicated to Mike that he would like to see something like that occur. Even if the 3 Stooges don’t bite, it will show clearly to Canadians that this coalition busines is all about grabbing power through the back door.
Brett – he asked them for their ideas right after the election and Iggy shot back – no way – we are not giving him any of our ideas.
I hope he outlines that he has tried to reach out – it has been the opposition that has been planning this for along time – I believe Iggy’s statement confirms that.
Gee, I spent two hours coming up with what I wanted to tell the GG, and now find out there are “talking points”:)
Didn’t need as much time for my faxes to Layton and Dion. Didn’t feel the need for respect.
Anyone got an email address for Ed Broadbent?
http://www.theglobeandmail.com/servlet/story/RTGAM.20081203.wndp03/BNStory/politics/
Hey Joanne – is there any way you can put the submit button under the letters – I always forget and have to come back to do it. LOL!!
OK – my brain has lost it – right after typing that, I hit the submit button and here I am back again to put the letters in – arrrrgggh
But why so much hate? I just don’t get it. It’s simply irrational to value your hate more than you value your country.
Why is their hate more important than the advancement of Quebec sovereignty?
Why is it more important than a renewed threat of Western separation?
Why is it more important than separatists holding the balance of power?
Why is it more important than the precedent this sets for all future minority governments? (H/T ward at JNW)
It’s surreal. It’s crazy.
Does CTV stand for Coalition Television Network?
I could understand if Harper offered an olive branch but I hope he doesn’t. As mentioned above the CPC have already tried working with the opposition and have also backtracked on several items in the update. It’s clear to anyone not filled with irrational hatred that the CPC has bent over backwards while the opposition has been completely uncooperative.
Wow – I heard Harper say that he has asked the opposition for their input then Bob Fife immediately says He never reached out to the opposition and he did not apologize!!!!
WTF – what should he apologize for!!!! I HATE these media people.
I am yelling at the TV – Now oliver says he never talked about what they have done…..didn’t he just go through what they have done???? ARRRGGGHHH
Craig Oliver is past his “best before date” too.
Where is Dion? Is he doing a retake?
Does CTV stand for Coalition Television Network?
lol!!!
Alberta Girl says…
“Wow – I heard Harper say that he has asked the opposition for their input then Bob Fife immediately says He never reached out to the opposition”
I seen that too.
I can’t believe this, my blood is boiling..
I was just typing that in as I read yours, Joanne.
Think it’s probably a double retake.
Dion is doing a do over, and this guy wants to run the country…
Dion’s tape is delayed.
Rumor has it he is on his 86th retake.
Good luck Canada! Does Dion have any idea how expensive air time is?
Or is he entitled to it?
Rumor has it he is on his 86th retake.
Should be there by the end of January…
He may be asking Steve Murphy (ATV) for advice
While we are waiting. Some good news for the coalition
http://www.communist-party.ca/news/Statements/2008/Coalition.html
He wants to know if Harper is PM or he is.
I truly cannot believe these CTV reporters and their spin about how Harper needed to be contrite and reach out to the opposition THey see nothing wrong with what these idiots are doing.
I fear this is a done deal.
After this long, I’d say to Dion that he had his chance and it’s too late now.
The only saving grace is that Dion’s tape never showed up – HAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAAHAHA
Check out Kady O’Malley’s live blog. They’re all going after Harper.
Good lord – What did Harper ever do to deserve this kind of Vitriolic Hatred
Dion is on CBC.
I can see why they never wanted that tape released.
Hope Dion does better with the economy than he has with his english lessons.
Whoooo Dion just promised new transit for cities- I hope we get a bus out here in the sticks!!
How come Dion is so red? Oh forget it – I just figured it out.
I swear Bob Rae was hiding behind him with his hand up his ass, moving Dion’s lips.
I was watching on Global. I read CTV bailed before Dion was on?
I was watching CPAC when my sister called me to ask “where’s the cassette?”
Huh? I said. She then informed me that the station she was watching (I forgot to ask which one) said Dion’s cassette in response to PM Harper could not be found. Knowing what a Harperite I am, she jokingly asked where I had hidden it.
Watch the conspiracy theories start to fly.
I switched to CTV, where I was surprised to hear Bob Fife say that the Bloc does indeed have a veto, contrary to what opposition supporters have stated. Then Oliver said something to the effect that the separatists would demand, as usual, more than any federal government could allow, and then turn around to say that was proof the federation does not work.
One word for Dion’s tape – Amateur.
And now it is all about how bad Quebecois are going to feel about how they are being treated by the west. As a westerner, I wonder when it is my turn to have them wonder how this all makes me feel.
While as dippy as Dions response was, can’t say PMSH won over too many people either. sorry.
I think CTV must feel guilty for showing that “do over” tape before the election. Because they’re sure making up for it now with the ass-kissing.
Looks like we have discovered the weak spot in the coalition. Wacko Jacko’s ego.
Not being able to get airtime, he sets up shop anyways to mug for the cameras. Think Jacko wants to be second fiddle to DeYawn?
Gotta agree with Norm. The PM’s message was rather weak and short.
I wonder who advises him – he shouldn’t have been so warm and fuzzy – he should have been angry.
O good lord – Bob Fife is on MDL – more liberal spin.
I think Warren Kinsella could have done a better clip with Bart the Fish than the Coalition managed. Was it just me or was Dion’s face all blurry, and they got WAY TOO CLOSE for his close up. As WK’s saying whoever’s responsible should be fired! I agree.
I think that Harper was speaking to Canadians who don’t normally follow politics. It was very basic and I heard him outreach to the other parties…but I’ve been hearing him do that in the legislature too..all for nothing because the Coalition already made its deal and made their decisions.
P.S. – Harper’s very sick with the flu, yet he’s out there standing up for Canada.
Well good for Bob Fife – they are the laughingstock!! Good old Dion – can’t wait till he is our PM!!
Take a look over Dion’s right shoulder in the video.
You can see the book titled “Hot Air”.
Seems appropriate.
Think there must be a University somewhere that could use Mr. Dion. He just doesn’t fit in Politics.
Re: PM Harper’s performance. I didn’t see it as weak.
What I find with him, though, is that he should s-l-o-w down, so that his sentences, which are fact-filled, have a chance to sink in.
• He listed all the measures dealing with the economy that have already been taken.
• He mentioned more to come with the Jan 27 budget.
• He again invited the opposition to suggest more measures.
What else does the opposition want?
Considering I hide in bed when I have the flu, I do give that to Harper.
“I think that Harper was speaking to Canadians who don’t normally follow politics.”
I hate it when people point out that not everyone is a political junkie.
On that point, my wife works at a day care in downtown Montreal. All week I have asked her what the buzz was at work, 30 employees. Less than no buzz. Nada, no talk, no nothing. She thinks they have no idea whats going on.
“what else does the opposition want”
They want him to resign and go back to Calgary and then all would be well in the country.
The problem with the media is Harper did not give them enough inside information. Smart move.
Looks like Dion was broadcasting from a broom closet or storage room of some sort.
That professor looked like his head was going to explode when Fife pointed out the Bloc’s veto on budgets.
Check out the Shotgun Blog. Looks like one Lib. MP isn’t crazy about this:
http://westernstandard.blogs.com/shotgun/2008/12/first-liberal-p.html
What does the opposition want?
They want it their way or no way. That’s their definition of compromise.
I just watched the Dion tape again…hillarious. I think we should send it to American Funniest Videos, or the new reality show – Guess What This Dude’s Saying”, win a million dollars and Canada
Thanks for that Soccermom.
I just sent the Guelph MP a thank-you for thinking of Canada ahead of a coalition.
FV@frankvaleriote.ca
I am sick and tired of the media continually saying that Harper needed to be concillitory. What a friggen crock!!!
Did anyone else notice that there was no french in Prime Minister Harper’s speech?
I am tired of Dion saying “Canadians want”
I am Canadian and I don’t want a coalition Government
Believe me this is GRASS ROOT
Fay, PM Harper just now gave the French version of his speech on CPAC.
And now it’s S. Dion.
Someone over at SDA noticed that one of the books on the shelf behind S. Dion is called “Hot Air.” Ominous or what?
Fay – because it was taped, he probably had two tapes – on for Quebec and one for English – of course, I expect that the spin doctors from the cabal will tell us that they are saying two different things to each side.
Sorry, just re-reading comments and saw Paulsstuff already mentioned the “Hot Air” book.
Fay
The Prime Minister did a complete speech in French
He did two speeches one English one French
I approve I hate the interpreters take on the meaning and intonation
Dion’s video looks like he did it himself with his cell phone.
Graham Richardson to his credit really hammered Dion on the fact that it was late and the quality of it.
Even Dinalo slammed both sides.
AG,
I aggre. Harper had no reason to be concillitory over this. But, I thought he could have done better. I didn’t know he was sick, so that does put it in a different light.
CTV has already had an apology for the poor tape from the Libs!!! Someone’s head will roll…..take a read of what WK had to say about it.
You know the media is following the wind when they start referring to the “Liberal-NDP” coalition as the “Liberal-NDP-Bloq” coalition. Watching CTV this morning, I noticed the change.
As I’ve said before, most media is not leaning one way or another, they just sense the best story.
The Globe will now attempt to explain the fawning story of the non-existant Manley/McKenna/Martin/Romanow economic advisory panel that doesn’t exist. In Maxwell Smart-speak, that turned out to be “Jack Layton”, and a chimpanzee with an MBA from the Rotman School of Management.
For anyone interested, a chronology of events over the last week or so from the CHQR website:
http://www.am770chqr.com/News/National/Article.aspx?id=69245
The media and opposition are insisting on dwelling in the past
Thank heaven we have a Prime Minister who is living in the present and makes his decisions based on the present for the troubling economic times that the world finds itself in
a saying of my mother she was Irish I don’t know author
What is the past? It’s history
What is the future? It’s a mystery
What is the present? It’s a gift
The present is a gift we should treasure and live to the fullest
fh
Okay, I took a chance and watched CTV briefly for the 1st time in over a week. I caught the end of the panel review I was shocked Oliver seemed beside himself and resigned to te fact that the party was over. He summed up everything nicely almost choking on his words. Too many cooks in the kitchen and that this thing was likely not going to fly.
Dinalo, what a clown, he seemed upset and angry, likely for the above reasons. Glad he only had a minute to speak.
I saw a mall news snippit and CTV tried to paint it that the country was evenly split on the support for the coalition. Uh huh.
Maybe we need to start a campaign involving cable providers to see if CTV/CBC/Global can be removed from individual cable packages. A nice touch would be to cc the companies.
My feeling, let them vote in parliment on Monday. I do not think the non confidence motion will pass. I think more than 10 liberal MP’s have gotten the message.
However we need to keep up the pressure.
Joanne, you have no idea how much fun it is to arrive so late and catch up. You guys all saw everything the same way as I did. I have to say that BOB RAE, was the most hideously mean spirited man I have ever experienced. His comments were unforgivable. They also were a lie. He needs to be called on that. That is what the trolls have been doing guys…reporting back!
Shane in wack’- I e-mailed Shaw cable to ask if I could remove them this week actually. I received a nice response, No. I think however, it is worth the good feeling knowing I tried.
The Eastern, CTV has become despicable…..they hate us!
PMSH, has been really sick all week. I thought he did GREAT!. If the other dopes had been sick, the CTV would have had a love fest, apologizing all over the place, offering them neo citron and coughdrops. Craig OLIVER and Bob FIFE and……have to go!
Joanne,
Firstly,I thank you for this blog, I am sure you invested a lot of your time here,and I just like to express my gratitude to you since I learned a lot by reading comments from different sides,it is an eye opener to me. God Bless you.
Secondly,since English is my second language,I do not have the proper skills to write a more eloquent letters to the MSM.You see Joanne, as a canadian immigrant from a third world country,I have experience, I can smell a rat in canadian MSM both CBC and CTV especially tonight after PMSH speech. This whole event in Ottawa is giving me heartaches. I e-mailed my MP, Mr. Joe Volpe, exressing my feelings towards this dangerous coalition, whether he will read it is still something to bee seen, but his assistant acknowleged my e-mail so I am hopeful. May God continue to bless you with good health Joanne. Thank you.
Bec – I caught Bob Rae’s lie too. Actually the champions of the slowly-deflating coalition have been very free with that word, liar. A little too free and I actually think some of what they’re saying is character assassination.
Harper’s actually sicker than I thought – a lung infection and picked up something in Peru.
I hate how he’s being treated. He’s a very nice guy. He was very supportive of an organization that I headed a few years back and actually took time one Saturday to come meet a handful of members, and talk about education issues and families. Very shy, relaxed, thoughtful. The MSM and opposition have truly spun this man more than I think they’ve piled their crap on any other PM. It’s vicious and it’s confrontational and quite unnecessary. I’ve written as much to most of the usual suspects and I’ve also written thank-yous to the media type who actually are working to try and understand the man that Stephen Harper is.
Duffy talked this evening about a time when Trudeau was PM and he(Duffy) was covering him at a rally in Cliff MacIsaac’s North Battleford riding. The press was all over Trudeau about his cold, and aloof almost uncaring manner. Trudeau came back with something like, Well, I’m not in this job to make friends, all I know is when I go home my wife loves me, my kids love me and that’s enough for me.”
I like Stephen Harper as our PM. He’s working hard on our behalf. No one else comes close at the moment, and none of either Dion, Layton or Duceppe deserve the fawning and free ride they’ve gotten.
I hope the GG saw those comments tonight.
Earlier Johndoe124 linked to the CHQR website…I highly recommend it to see what Harper’s been through lately. It’s VERY encouraging.
I didn’t watch the speech but I read the transcript and I have to say… it was a damn fine speech that hit on the exact notes that were needed.
Well, except for maybe a couple of things.
One thing would be the reason that we’re in this mess is because the opposition parties didn’t like the cuts to political party funding.
You can blame either Harper or the opposition parties as you like but the outcry was so outrageous that we are where we are.
Back to the TV, our Prime Minister was on a roll and I was pleased to be a supporter.
I couldn’t wait until I read Blue Like You.
But he wasn’t finished.
I anticipated his second reason for being against this unholy coalition but I was hoping I was wrong.
I wasn’t.
Second thing was his attempt to defend his opposition to the coalition based solely on the fact that it involved a separatist party.
No mention of the normalcy of Canada, or multi-party systems like our democracy, having parties in power with far less than a majority of votes.
No mention of the last parliament with its choked committees.
No mention of the absolute hatred that each side shows for the other.
No mention of the numerous scandals created by the opposition.
No apology for the flag flap of the day before and for giving Dion an excuse to scream “LIAR!!” at the PM sitting there stoically.
Have you read some of the blog postings?
Some of the nastiest stuff is being said by everyone!
Conservatives and Liberals alike are vehement in their opposition and bold in their attacks.
If this was 17th century England we’d be cleaving at each other on the battlefield!
We have to step back from all of this and by we I mean the people who back the politicians and not the politicians themselves.
We have to find new leadership.
There!
I’ve said it!
I’ll probably be excommunicated now (sorry Joanne) but I had to get it out.
Yes Lee, I probably did subliminally suggest that Harper was to blame in one of my posts because I was beginning to have doubts about his leadership even then.
I didn’t want to because I do admire the man and what he has done for the conservative agenda.
Also, as an ex-Albertan who has expirienced the palpable distrust of the east by most Albertans in Harper I thought that the spirit of the Reform Party was present in name if not in fact.
Where are the promises to consult with the populus before heading off in such dangerous directions.
Did any of us decide that it was wise to eliminate funding for political parties in such an abrut manner or might we have been more concillatory.
After all, we had promised civility after the election campaign.
Did any of us truly decide to really put the screws to the opposition and drive some of them to the brink of bankruptcy?
I think not.
As a conservative thinking person I cannot see how that is a reasonable response to a promise to the Canadian people to bring at least decorom to the House of Commons and the running of government.
Harper has to go and if he’s gone on Monday then I’ll throw my full support behind however replaces him.
NeilD
It is interesting this Harper has to go talk. I can see it from the left as they have been 2 steps behind Harper and have been blocked at every exit.
Not sure why the right would think this way unless the MSM is getting to you.
I think the leftie propaganda, sorry what is supposed to passing for news coverage playing 24hrs a day has gotten into your head. My solution….quit watching CBC/CTV coverage for a week.(That goes for all of you. Joanne we don’t need you blowing a gasket and being out of action for any period, LOL)
You really think a change of leader is going to appease the left? Have you not seen what has taken place over the past 2.5 years. It’s all or nothing. They will gloat in a change and attack harder more eaggressively if they smell blood.
I can not blame the man for losing his cool every now and then, given that he is attacked every day by the 4 lefties plus their attack dogs the MSM. Then on top of that having to deal with the premiers especially Danny Williams.
I am very ashamed of Irwin Cotler tonight. From the morning edition of the Vancouver Sun:
http://www.vancouversun.com/Some+Liberals+would+welcome+cooling+effect+timeout/1028087/story.html
Cotler says the coalition process has already produced ,“significant victories for the public” as the government retreated from provocative plans to abolish public funds for political parties, and to ban public service strikes for two years. But he added: “It should never have come to this.”
How is it a victory for the public to continue to pay for political parties?
“Harper has to go and if he’s gone on Monday then I’ll throw my full support behind however replaces him.”
NeilD
Sorry Neil – respectfully disagree. He is bearing the brunt of this debacle, when the blame should be put squarely on the shoulders of the architects. His decision to out this plot was, in my opinion, a remarkable thing to do. I am behind him and his decisions 100%, and have sent letter(s) of support not only to Mr. Harper, but to the Conservative Party proper indicating the same.
Actually I would like to get input on something that has been bothering me for the past couple of days, especially tonight.
Does this whole thing not smell of something else. Are the Libs and NDP that blind, obtuse, out of touch with voters (yes only 57% turnout). It screams like it was out the Johnny C playbook but did they really think they had a hope in hell of pulling this off? That in 1 week none of the details would be leaked? Or is something else at play….
A.Are the NDP trying to take out the Libs?
B.Is it deeper than this at it actually a carryover Lib power struggle between the Martinites and Chretinites still hanging around in the party?
C.Payback by ex Libs or soon to be with an axe to grind
Reasons for scenario A:
-Appointing Dion as the leader, exhibit a… Roll the tape.
-Almost all the high profile cabinet minsters will be Libs. It has the Libs hand prints all of it.
-Above point except Industry. Layton could pay back loyal supporters or at least say he could by the position he negotiated.
-The leaked tape, was it an accident? Cuts both ways but Layton once again would portray himself as deal maker
Reasons for scenario B
-Appointing Dion as the leader
-Martin & Johnny both being involved
-Martin who is deeply involved in this mess Is he supporting Rae in his leadership bin. Johnny for Iggy. Johnny gets the ball rolling then Martin/Boob get deeply immersed in this mess effectively falling on this grenade.
-No post for Iggy. Iggy sits on the sidelines having second thoughts, uh huh. Comes off as cooler head.
-Dion appointment made so spin will be, he was a rouge operator yet Boob was all over this even wanted a bigger role.
Reasons for scenarion C
-Is Dion really that inept, eg the tape tonight. He once again made the libs look like fools
as the leader
-Martin & Johnny both being involved. They hate each other.
-Johnny nor Dion both forced out before they wanted to leave
-Little support from the party near the end of their terms.
-Dion was Johnny’s protege and appointed by Johnny
-The timing, Dion still interim leader of the party
-Can Dion really be that inept
Am I way out in left field (ah hah) on this?
Yes, Stephen Harper is unfairly bearing the brunt of this outrage.
It’s for that very reason that he has to go.
This is an opposition bluff.
Cut off the head of the evil monster and the body will die.
So I say cut off the head!
Send our beloved Harper into the political netherland.
Appease the coalition, at least in the eyes of the Canadian public, and replace him with an equally strong Prime Minister but with a more concilliatory attitude toward the opposition.
Believe me when I predict that after the next election the Conservatives would gain a huge majority.
How backwards do we have to bend to appease these guys in a moment of crisis, even though it is one of their own making.
Do you think Canadians are going to be impressed if (when) the Liberals can’t get along with the next Conservative PM?
In fact, let’s encourage Harper to fight on but for a senate seat so that his presence will always be felt on the hill.
NeilD
Well, NeilD, i guess we will have to disagree on whether Mr. Harper should leave or not.
To see where i am coming from you have to go back a long way.
Why Mr. Harper called the election in the first place.
I believe it was because he knew the “coalition” was in the works, and felt he could get a majority to put an end to that.
The majority didnt happen, so the coalition proceeded with plans being made to bring the Government down when they saw fit.
Mr Harper surely knew what the “poison pill” would do.
I believe it was there to smoke out the plotters and not give them more time to get their act together.
So now i have a question.
What happens at the end of the “contract” with the Block should this coalition get power?
Is it conceivable that the Conservatives could make a deal with the Bloc and gain power? I would say yes.
So could we go on this way for years and never have an election?
Joanne,
Firstly,I thank you for this blog, I am sure you invested a lot of your time here,and I just like to express my gratitude to you since I learned a lot by reading comments from different sides,it is an eye opener to me. God Bless you…
Lisa, I just want to thank you and everyone here who has been expressing gratitude to me for carrying on this mission. I admit that it hasn’t been easy and I am so sorry that I can’t respond to each comment personally. It is impossible given the influx but I truly do thank each of you for your involvement.
I wouldn’t be doing this if it wasn’t for all of my readers and especially those who take the time to comment.
We will win this fight. Don’t give up. Demand that your vote to be respected.
Otherwise, the consequences are unthinkable.
No NeilD .. I and probably many others would disagree with you on your opinion of Stephen Harper.
He is the best PM we have had in many a year. I stick with him through thick and thin, the good and the bad.
Never should anyone make a pact with a group of individuals intent on breaking up Canada.
Our Prime Minister has been ill for most of the week I understand. Nothing keeps him from his job. Look at his performance this week. We are lucky to have him.
Neil – If you cut the head off the beast – as you say – trust me, the oppostion will smell blood and will stop at nothing to destroy the Conservative Party of Canada.
Stephen Harper and the Tories need to have the support of their supporters – they are getting enough Kill Harper from the left including the MSM.
This crap about him having to apologize – that somehow he is the cause of all of this is absolutely ludicrious!! This is not his fault, this is the fault of Jack Layton, Dion and Ducceppe and all the power brokers and MSM who Hate Harper and see their entitlements being threatened!!
I think you have been sucked in by the propoaganda being put out by the left. I mean when four members of the liberal/NDP group on separate occasions say that this anti-coalition stuff is the work of the Tories in a fan out calling and letter writing “astroturf” scheme – you know they did not expect this kind of backlash and are trying to downplay it as being the work of the Tories and not ordinary Canadians.
I would ask you to reconsider, Neil – but if you can’t I wish you good luck – especially if you do not live in the west. Because if this does go through – separatism will occur and it will most likely Not be Quebec. I will never again vote for the provincial Tories, I and thousands more will vote for the Western Separtist Party and we will leave this god forsaken country.
The opposition have been trying to govern through the back door since Harper was first elected. Personally I think this has a lot to do with the fact that Harper is not a member of the Eastern Canadian Old Boys Club (Read MSM) coupled with the fact that he is seen as a threat to the advancement of a Progressive society. The Progressives are scared shiteless that they are going to lose control of reengineering our society. That’s why they have no qualms about making deals with the Separatists. They view them as Progressives first and Separatists second. So while each of the parties may have different points of view about how to get there they all share the Progressive philosophy so they naturally feel that they have the right to govern in spite of having repeatedly lost elections. It makes them an extremely toxic and dangerous adversary. Nobody in this country is better equiped to deal with their insanity than Steven Harper. To not give him our 100% support at this juncture in Canadian history would be a serious and possibly catastrophic mistake.
On a philosophical note, nobody owns society, least of all the pompous assholes on Parliament hill. The only party that even comes close to recognizing this is the CPC. A reengineered society is no longer a free society.
Irwin Cotler is still a fat, lazy, pompous Liberal. Want proof? He values the taxpayer beneath funding for political parties.
Maybe I have been sucked in by the Liberal hordes but there has to be a more conciliatory attitude in Parliament and if it doesn’t start with the Prime Minister then who?
Now that Parliament has been prorogued are we going to be subjected to another six weeks of hysterics?
Someone has to blink and for the good of the country and the conservative movement it would look much better in the eyes of the voters if it was the Prime Minister.
NeilD
Someone has to blink and for the good of the country and the conservative movement it would look much better in the eyes of the voters if it was the Prime Minister.
In a mature society politicians take responsibility for their actions. Harper has already “blinked” several times. In return the opposition has offered nothing but a stubborn, traitorous lust for power. Each “blink” erodes the rectitude of Harper’s position and increases the strength of the duplicitousness of the opposition.