The DAILY DIGEST: INFORMATION and OPINION from ST. JOHN'S to VICTORIA.
ARCHIVED at http://cdndailydigest.blogspot.com/
EDITORIAL PAGEs ARCHIVED at http://cdndailydigest.blogspot.com/
CHARLOTTETOWN GUARDIAN -
Encouraging participation in our elections
Any systemic barriers that frustrate people or parties in their attempt to take part in the political process should be dismantled.
HALIFAX CHRONICLE HERALD -
Harper seeking re-take on economic policies
Harper was the original coalition plotter
Who's laughing now, Mr. Harper?
Pussyfooting around with pirates
AMHERST DAILY NEWS -
Lesson in civics mixed into ongoing parliamentary crisis
MONTREAL GAZETTE -
G-G should make leaders all take a time-out
http://www.montrealgazette.com/opinion/editorials/should+make+leaders+take+time/1028871/story.html
Ottawa coalition is short on principles
http://www.montrealgazette.com/opinion/editorials/Ottawa+coalition+short+principles/1024372/story.html
OTTAWA CITIZEN -
Canada in crisis
http://www.ottawacitizen.com/opinion/editorials/Canada+crisis/1028962/story.html
A rational voice
http://www.ottawacitizen.com/opinion/editorials/rational+voice/1028980/story.html
KINGSTON WHIG STANDARD-
Failed leadership
History suggests that the Liberals should bide their time
BELLEVILLE INTELLIGENCER -
Governor General should give coalition a chance
TORONTO STAR -
Harper adds fuel to fire
GLOBE & MAIL -
Fanning anger toward QuebecComment183
http://www.theglobeandmail.com/servlet/story/RTGAM.20081204.weRegions04/BNStory/politics/home
Sooner, not laterComment37
http://www.theglobeandmail.com/servlet/story/RTGAM.20081204.weLiberals04/BNStory/politics/home
A strong public role
http://www.theglobeandmail.com/servlet/story/RTGAM.20081204.weAuto04/BNStory/specialComment/home
NATIONAL POST -
Prorogue Parliament
TORONTO SUN -
Canadians must back Harper
HAMILTON SPECTATOR -Opposition had to step in to help Canada
NIAGARA FALLS REVIEW -
Leadership, not egos, needed on Parliament Hill
K-W RECORD -
Opposition is not subverting election
Canadians are struggling to understand
WINDSOR STAR -
G-G's role
http://www.windsorstar.com/opinion/editorials/role/1029504/story.html
SUDBURY STAR -
Canadians must speak out against coalition
WINNIPEG FREE PRESS -
Mendacious and magnificent
http://www.winnipegfreepress.com/opinion/westview/Mendacious_and_magnificent.html
This is not the time for political games
http://www.winnipegfreepress.com/opinion/westview/This_is_not_the_time_for_political_games.html
SASKATOON STARPHOENIX -
Partisan rhetoric damages debate on nuclear power
http://www.canada.com/saskatoonstarphoenix/news/forum/story.html?id=91309e0e-5fa1-42d7-bde6-f221d0aee786
Newspapers have their say
http://www.canada.com/saskatoonstarphoenix/news/forum/story.html?id=cabc3eed-245b-40b6-b588-ba858af00c27
REGINA LEADER-POST -
Gov. Gen's best option: a new federal election
http://www.canada.com/reginaleaderpost/news/viewpoints/story.html?id=3ac17b0a-02d6-4216-9836-b0356b21eac3
CALGARY HERALD -
Harper can't help himself . . . or can he?
http://www.canada.com/calgaryherald/news/theeditorialpage/story.html?id=e5930561-451d-4e04-9d99-d1c61528207f
Should this even be the governor general's job?
http://www.canada.com/calgaryherald/news/theeditorialpage/story.html?id=67674b3f-30d1-4c98-81a3-541834db6442
GRANDE PRAIRIE DAILY HERALD TRIBUNE -
Political ball is in Jean's court - Proroguing Parliament the first step towards solutiion
POLITICS - The only real option for Jean is to send us back to the polls
EDMONTON JOURNAL -
Risky maybe, but no coup
http://www.edmontonjournal.com/opinion/Risky+maybe+coup/1030493/story.html
No time for haste in Ottawa
http://www.edmontonjournal.com/opinion/time+haste+Ottawa/1025679/story.html
Reckless cause, reckless effect in time of crisis
http://www.edmontonjournal.com/opinion/Reckless+cause+reckless+effect+time+crisis/1020055/story.html
Political power struggle scaring Canadians: Poll
http://www.edmontonjournal.com/Political+power+struggle+scaring+Canadians+Poll/1032813/story.html
VANCOUVER SUN -
History lessons
What it takes to be a great leader
A Nation Divided
Curse or promise, coalition may be way of the future
A good economic plan squandered in a political mis-step
VANCOUVER PROVINCE -
The coalition's real agenda
http://www.theprovince.com/opinion/editorials/coalition+real+agenda/1029398/story.html
This sad sorry lot will cost us $300 million
http://www.theprovince.com/opinion/editorials/This+sorry+will+cost+million/1024659/story.html
VICTORIA TIMES-COLONIST -
Leaders' talks changed little
Harper's attack on pay equity won't help economy
ISSUES
AFGHANISTAN -
Taliban Backs Off Maximum Craziness
http://blog.wired.com/defense/agony_of_astan/index.html
Tribal Leaders To Sabotage West's Assault On Taliban',
Spring elections 'illegal' says IEC official
No dream team for Karzai
The Economist (12/01/0408)
![[]](https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/blogger_img_proxy/AEn0k_sL10ZBequ3hkFutTrDU1E3tF8yUD0tZaGWKlYU6yT4wK7sqJg7SqsIh_agh-okZUaTlFMjqW_vE_9QFssdT52yAwTpe6NBk7JOSWc=s0-d){kind=small}
Afghan women say danger growing for female leaders
The Associated Press (12/04/2008)
Who Are the Taliban? The Afghan War Deciphered
TomDispatch (12/04/2008)
Armed and dangerous
The Guardian (12/01/0408)
Defying US, Afghanistan Signs Cluster Ban
Democracy Now, NY (12/04/2008)
How Obama should fight al Qaeda and its allies
CNN (12/04/2008)
Afghan general Rashid Dostum flies to exile in Turkey
DPA (12/04/2008)
Maimed Afghan teen adds nation to cluster-bomb ban
The Associated Press (12/04/2008)
Newly appointed Kandahar governor fired
CBC News (12/04/2008)
Afghanistan is Victim of Organized Crime, Indulgence of President
TrendNews (12/04/2008)
Tribal leaders to sabotage West's assault on Taliban
The Independent, UK (12/04/2008)
U.S. surge in Afghanistan could lead to more violence: ISAF
CBC News (12/04/2008)
Afghanistan, Another Untold Story
Center for Research on Globalization, Canada (12/04/2008)
CANADIAN FORCES
CAN Mil Police Boss Retains Civilian Counsel to Represent Him in Inquiry into Treatment of AFG Detainees
FEDERAL POLITICS all 2,600 news articles »
CANADIAN PRESS
Canadians demonstrate feelings on Ottawa crisis at gatherings across the country
http://ca.news.yahoo.com/s/capress/081204/national/parliament_crisis_rallies
Political analysts agree HarperIs Quebec-bashing will push some voters to PQ 2 hours, 38 minutes ago
Liberal resolve to defeat Harper starts to crumble 2 hours, 44 minutes ago
No business was usual as Parliament shut down Thu Dec 4, 6:17 PM
Harper wrong on democracy claims: experts Thu Dec 4, 6:15 PM
Losers abound after historic parliamentary week Thu Dec 4, 6:09 PM
Union leaders worry more jobs will be lost by suspension of Parliament Thu Dec 4, 5:16 PM
Them's fighting words, but leave the dead out of it Thu Dec 4, 3:26 PM
Harper hangs on as PM, shuts Parliament
Wounded Conservative minority extinguishes session to sidestep defeat
SUN PAPERS
Parliament suspended
Parliamentary time out in orderPoll paints divisive picture of who's worried about what as PM's set to request a royal reprieve to save his skin
Are Tory knives out for Harper?
PM summons premiers
With Parliament in Limbo: Stephen Harper has become Canada's Lord Protector
Harper says Canadian democracy at stake
Dion urges GG to reject suspension of Parliament
Harper vs. Dion: who won?
Union leaders dejected
Toronto reacts
Liberal resolve to defeat Harper starts to crumble
Warmington: Voices in the gallery
Opposition asked to rally around Dion
Proroguing leaves time for PR war
Growing worries over Bloc
Tories stand by their man, poll shows
Support split by region
Bonokoski: When doesn't 'no' mean 'no'?
Unprecedented debate online, on air and in print
Dion should read his own book
Suspend Parliament. Let them cool down
Blockheads & Bloc
NATIONAL POST
Jean grants PM's request to suspend Parliament
http://www.nationalpost.com/news/story.html?id=1031324
Why the PM must persist
http://www.nationalpost.com/todays_paper/story.html?id=1029123
Old bogeyman usurps real crisis
http://www.nationalpost.com/todays_paper/story.html?id=1029127
Harper ditches the olive branch
http://www.nationalpost.com/todays_paper/story.html?id=1029154
The solution: Another election
http://www.nationalpost.com/todays_paper/story.html?id=1029184
With confidence vote thwarted, coalition begins six-week trial by fire
http://network.nationalpost.com/np/blogs/fullcomment/archive/2008/12/04/steve-janke-coalition-faces-six-week-trial-by-fire.aspx
Harper has 'fled Parliament,' Dion says
Global National special: Parliament suspended
Live blog: Harper gets his Christmas wish as Parliament suspended
Stimulus coming in January budget: Flaherty
Economic point men battle over deficit
Coalition would push 2-year stimulus plan
Bay Street looks into political abyss in Ottawa
GLOBE AND MAIL
Parliament shut down till Jan. 26
http://www.theglobeandmail.com/servlet/story/RTGAM.20081204.wparliamentday1204/BNStory/politics/home
Bloc part of secret Alliance coalition plan
http://www.theglobeandmail.com/servlet/story/RTGAM.20081203.wquebec1203/BNStory/National/home
Harper boosts nationalist sentiment in Quebec
http://www.theglobeandmail.com/servlet/story/RTGAM.20081204.wparlquebec04/BNStory/politics/home
Flaherty's plan prolongs the pain, forecaster saysComment75
http://www.theglobeandmail.com/servlet/story/RTGAM.20081204.wparlfinance04/BNStory/politics/home
What a difference five days makeComment86
http://www.theglobeandmail.com/servlet/story/RTGAM.20081204.wcosimpson04/BNStory/politics/home
Lawrence Martin
Schreyer says Jean should say 'no' to Harper
One governor-general to another: Don't aid in evading Parliament's will
http://www.theglobeandmail.com/servlet/story/RTGAM.20081204.wparlmartin04/BNStory/politics/home
Can it get any more pathetic? You betcha!
http://www.theglobeandmail.com/servlet/story/RTGAM.20081203.wcowent04/BNStory/politics/home
Why kingmaker Duceppe can't stop laughing
http://www.theglobeandmail.com/servlet/story/RTGAM.20081203.wcojohnson04/BNStory/politics/home
There's not much sunshine here
http://www.theglobeandmail.com/servlet/story/RTGAM.20081204.wparlmacgregor04/BNStory/specialComment/home
Video: Historic day at Rideau Hall
Schreyer tells Jean to say 'no'
Harper & Jean: An already strained relationship
How to spend your stay of execution
TORSTAR
Canadians fail democratic literacy test
Harper makes his pitch to Canadians
Coalition's agenda focuses on stimulating the economy
PM hangs on as Parliament shut down for seven weeks
More Q & A on the parliamentary crisis
Economy should be the focus, Dion says
REUTERS
Harper wins suspension of Parliament
One-time refugee plays key role in Canada crisis
Liberals say still want Harper out
Governor general agrees to suspend Parliament: TV
PROGRAMMES
Passport issues risk privacy
http://www.theglobeandmail.com/servlet/story/RTGAM.20081204.wpassport1204/BNStory/National/home
OPINION AND INFORMATION
It's all about ...marketing boards?
http://www.nationalpost.com/todays_paper/story.html?id=1029189
What now?
The shifting North American Unionized Map
A very Canadian coup
INFOS
Harper obtient un sursis, la gouverneure accepte de suspendre le Parlement
http://info.branchez-vous.com/Nationales/081204/N120494AU.html
La crise à Ottawa stimulera la ferveur souverainiste, espère Pauline Marois
http://info.branchez-vous.com/Nationales/081204/N120456AU.html
La commissaire à la vie privée inquiète pour les renseignements personnels.
http://info.branchez-vous.com/Nationales/081204/N120476AU.html
Harper convoque les premiers ministres des provinces à une réunion le 16 janvier
http://info.branchez-vous.com/Nationales/081203/N1203172AU.html
Des manifestations anticoalition auront lieu samedi dans plusieurs villes
http://info.branchez-vous.com/Nationales/081203/N1203181AU.html
Harper a perdu le droit de gouverner»
http://www.ledevoir.com/2008/12/04/220779.html
Les libéraux se disent unis
http://www.radio-canada.ca/nouvelles/Politique/2008/12/04/002-opposition-prorogaton.shtml
Consternation et frustrations en Alberta
http://www.radio-canada.ca/regions/alberta/2008/12/02/001-Coalition-Alberta_n.shtml
Le réveil des séparatistes de l'Ouest?
http://www.radio-canada.ca/regions/saskatchewan/2008/12/02/001-crise-ouest-separation_n.shtml
Harper veut rallier le reste du Canada à sa cause
http://www.cyberpresse.ca/dossiers/crise-a-ottawa/200812/04/01-807459-harper-veut-rallier-le-reste-du-canada-a-sa-cause.php
La coalition perd des appuis au sein des libéraux
http://www.cyberpresse.ca/dossiers/crise-a-ottawa/200812/04/01-807445-la-coalition-perd-des-appuis-au-sein-des-liberaux.php
BELOW(30)(30)(30)(30)(30)30)(30)(30)(30)(30)(30)30)(30)(30)(30)(30)(30)30)(30)(30)(30)(30)(30)(30)(30)(30)30)(30)(30)(30)(30)
Just thought I'd bring to mind our problems compared with others are minimal
Tribal Leaders To Sabotage West's Assault On Taliban Just thought I'd bring to mind our problems compared with others are minimal
![[]](https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/blogger_img_proxy/AEn0k_sky3DaeBdeaw93ctZB0rqWRK5nFD6HaB3u7e8jt4N3LzcyYbIcs1uuVTlyygFYJUav-QCq0lH44lnplnJbBjEl8qyosa_cl88s=s0-d)
', The Independent, 4 December 2008See also:
' Waking up to Afghanistan's realities
', The Guardian, 3 December 2008' Afghans fear militia rule as U.S. reaches out to tribes
', World Focus, 3 December 2008' JI flexing muscles to cut NATO supply route
', Daily Times, 3 December 2008Related posts:
' Enlisting tribes against militants carries risks', 24 November 2008
' US: Tribal leaders still in charge', 28 February 2008
' Pushtuns, tribalism, leadership, Islam and Taliban', 16 November 2007
' Beyond warlordism: The local security architecture in Afghanistan', 19 October 2007
«¤»¥«¤»«¤»¥«¤»§«¤»¥«¤»«¤»¥«¤»§«¤»¥«¤»§«¤»¥«¤»§«¤»¥«¤»§«¤»¥«¤»§«¤»¥«¤»§«¤»¥«¤»«¤»¥«¤»§«¤»¥«¤»§«¤»¥«¤»
From: "Jacob Rempel" To: "EDITOR--VancouverSun" <sunletters@png.canwest.com>
Subject: About the coalition proposal
Dear Editor:
Three opposition parties in the House of Commons, representing the majority of Canadian voters with a majority of H of C members, , have decided to cooperate. That's good. Very good.
I don't understand the up-roar against a normal political plan to establish a government with a more stable majority support in the House of Commons. For some time now we have had an unstable minority government acting indecisively, depending on hesitant Bloc Quebecois support and other divisive maneuvers
Conservatives will continue to have insecure support for their many policies contrary to progressive policies of the three minority parties, always angling for separatist and socialist support as they have done before.
Stephane Dion's Liberal Party coalition with the NDP, and with a firm commitment from Bloc MPs not to support non-confidence motions, will provide a period of stable, confident government for economic measures to meet the recession crisis in the economy, and to reassure Canadians.
The coalition parties have similar social policies, which correspond with Quebec social programs approved by the Bloc. Stephane Dion and Jack Layton understand this. They know that progressive policies will strengthen unity sentiment in Quebec, but the new Conservative Party, like Republicans in the US, wants Canada to retreat from progressive social policy. They also fail to give strong environmental policy leadership. This drives Quebec away from federalism. Cooperation will restore progressive leadership and promote unity.
We hear much complaining about partisan fighting in parliament. The coalition is a realistic plan for cooperation among political parties to restore progressive leadership. I applaud the humility of the three minority party leaders in their plan for cooperation, and applaud their determination to serve all Canadians. I support them
---Jacob Rempel, Vancouver
===================================
From: Ron Thornton
Subject: Re: Daily Digest December 2, 2008
**Hi Joe:
There appears to be some similarities between the "infamous letter" and the current coalition agreement featuring the Liberals, NDP, and BQ, with the Greens tossed in to this salad for good measure. In 2004, the opposition parties tossed out the idea that rather than have an election, they might be able to extend the life of that Parliament for an undetermined amount of time based on what those parties might be able to agree upon. The gambit proved useful, as it caused some movement in the position of the government of the day.
Our present situation comes on the heels of an election where the possibility of a coalition was outright denied by the leaders, which would appear in hindsight to have been a lie on the part of those involved. We have two parties, with a combined seat total that is 17 less than that held by the party that won the plurality, seeking to achieve power through the signed, sealed, and delivered support, for at least the next 18 months, of the party devoted to Quebec independence.
In other words, the "infamous letter" suggests the possibility of going out on a date to see what kind of relationship might develop. The coalition agreement, on the other hand, already has the suitor all frisky, naked and in the bed. One sought to explore what might or might not be achievable together. The other is an signed agreement with an escape clause only after 18 months where promises had to be made and expectations understood in order to achieve such an accord. What are those promises and expectations? Considering the life of such a government would be incumbent on fulfilling its prearranged agreements with a party dedicated to the dismantling of the country, it probably would be prudent to get the answers to those questions. The fate of the nation could well be in the balance.
I admit that the fact all the parties that seem excited about such a coalition government are socialist does bother me. If they were more financially responsible, dedicated to providing excellence in production and services rather than in protecting the inept, and when distributing questionable rights they also accept that such rights also should come with expected responsibilities, then maybe I might be less bothered. However, be it a Conservative majority government or one consisting of a socialist/separatist coalition, such a mandate should only come from the people. It should not be based on a decision forced upon the people by secret agreements between a band of politicians and their backroom hacks.
There is only one way to determine the will of the people, and that is to allow them to vote based on the understanding of what kind of government they will be selecting. That is what a democracy is all about.
Ron
===================================
From: Ray Strachan
Subject: Fwd: So to make an intelligent choice.
----- Forwarded message
So apparently 67% of Canadian want a real legitimate Hypocrite running things.
Letter written Sept 9 2004.
Excellency, Adrainne Clarkson
Gov. General.
As leaders of the Opposition Parties,we are well aware that,given the Liberal
Minority Government ,you could be asked by The Prime Minister to dissolve the
38th Parliament at any time should the House Of Commons fail to support some
part of The Governments program.
We respectfully point out that the Opposition Parties,who together
constitute a Majority in The House, have been in close consultation.
We believe, that should a request for dissolution arise, this would give you
cause,as constituitional practice has determined ,to consult the Opposition
Leaders and consider all of your options before excercising your
constitutional authority.
Your attention to this matter is appreciated.
Sincerely
Hon.Stephen Harper ,P.C. M.P.
Leadewr of The Opposition
Le4ader of The Conservative Party of Canada.
Gilles Duceppe M.P.
Leader of The Bloc Quebecois
Jack Layton M.P.
Leader of The New Democratic Party. ( Mr.Harper consorting with
Seperatists?:?)
Ray Strachan
===================================
From: "Jennifer Pollock"
Subject: RE: BELOW(30) December 2nd
Harper's Tactics and the Governor General's Decision
- Harper will likely avoid a vote of non confidence. This way he leaves it to the Governor General to rule on the extent of the confidence of the House of Commons. He will likely ask for the prorogation of Parliament. Aside: Harper's avoidance of accountability is habitual. His communication style and actions indicate a pattern of denial of certain realities; climate change, recession, human rights and Canadians' underlying small "l" liberal values.
- In the alternative, if polls show support for the Conservatives, Harper may seek dissolution and propose an election. Harper claimed that Parliament was dysfunctional in August and obtained the election he sought. This time round, there is a signed agreement with dates and commitments representing the majority of the House. Harper used his "get an election immediately" card once this year.
For her part, the Governor General is left to decide i) whether Harper does in fact have the confidence of the House, ii) whether the passage of time would change the situation, iii) whether an election would resolve the issue, iv) whether the coalition has the confidence of the House. Hopefully the Governor General will take a principled approach and not a political one.
i) whether Harper does in fact have the confidence of the House
I hope the Governor General will consider the fact that, there has been no vote of non confidence because Harper has avoided it by procedural nimbleness. It would seem perverse reasoning if the GG determined that she cannot assess confidence through other means. In fact, for the GG to uphold Harper's claim to the role of Prime Minister I would submit she must conclude that Harper does have the confidence of the House. Since Harper is ten seats short of majority she must be relying on means other than the confidence vote. Harper will point to the vote on the throne speech. Notwithstanding the vote on the throne speech, the issue is not whether Harper once had the confidence of the House but whether he has it now. It is clear that Harper does not have the confidence of the House now.
ii) whether the passage of time would change the situation
Has a Governor General been a party to delaying the determination of the confidence of the House? When Joe Clark was defeated, the point in time approach was used, as it has many times before. Permitting the Prime Minister to prorogue Parliament as a delay tactic has been employed before. The consideration is whether the use of prorogation has any productive, democratic purpose other than to avoid a non confidence vote. From the point of view of the Conservatives, it would permit an opportunity for the marshalling of public support through the media, advertising, meetings and rallies. In the alternative, it may not result in support but instability and conflict in the country. The lack of an active democratic government in this volatile economic environment could also destabilize Canada's economy. The GG should consider that permitting this delay also furthers the Conservative Harper's political strategy on how to deal with the economy. In this way, the GG upholds Harper's laissez faire approach. In summary, I submit that the risk of delay outweighs any benefits and the GG should not support prorogation.
iii) whether an election would resolve the issue
The decision to dissolve Parliament and call an election also delays productive democratic leadership on the economy, furthering Harper's laissez faire approach to the economy and the environment. The election option was recently exercised. The election option is still available if delay or coalition prove unsuccessful.
iv) whether the coalition has the confidence of the House
The opportunity to allow a coalition to attempt to govern is constitutionally permitted and not rare in western democracies. The GG knows the number of MPs in each party and by simple arithmetic must at least consider the possibility of a disciplined cooperation among the three parties. The signed agreement with timelines may influence her assessment of whether there is the necessary confidence of the House. Politics is changing, the Conservative tactics notwithstanding. Collaboration and mutual respect among adversaries has been employed to negotiate an end to apartheid and peace in Northern Ireland. Barrack Obama plans to govern with the assistance of a politically diverse team of leaders. In these times it is appropriate for the GG to ask the leader of the opposition to form a government.
Jennifer Pollock
===================================
From: "E E Hollingsworth"
Subject: G.G.
To all the people who are being told to write, call or email the Governor General ,save your time.
I certainly hope that the Governor General isn't going to make her decision based on public opinion. She has a Constitution and many Constitutional experts to guide her and which ever way she find to be correct, that will be the way.
Ellery
===================================
From: Charlotte Garrett
Subject: the coalition
Response to Brian:
Brian, in December 2 post regarding the coalition government states the following:
If this were the Liberals and NDP combining forces to defeat the Conservatives and between them hold a majority, then ok.
But this is the Liberals, NDP, and separatists joinng forces. To form a government, they need to be sworn in. That process involves swearing allegiance to Canada and the Crown.
The separatists stand for the destruction of Canada. They aren't fit to be part of a government alliance because they swear allegiance to the destruction of Canada. *
Brian is mistaken. The Bloc are not part of the coalition. It is as he hoped, the Liberals and the NDP combining forces. The Bloc, however, is supporting the coalition government for 18 months. Further please note the Prime Minister Steven Harper himself worked with the Bloc to bring down the Liberal House.
Brian - check out these links posted earlier in Joe's post:
- Sleeping With Separatists
- According to this excerpt from the Conservative Party's website it looks like Liberal leader Stéphane Dion and NDP leader Jack Layton aren't the only people who have benefited from the support of the sovereignist Bloc Québécois.
- The infamous letter
===================================
"Glenn Harewood"
Subject: Re: RALLY FOR CANADA website
December 2nd/2008
Harewood
Joe:
I will not access the listed Website because they will then have my address to bombard me with their propaganda.
But now we are seeing who and what the real Harper is.
I am amazed to find out how politically illiterate ALL the MPs in the Harper caucus and party are. They continue to allow Harper to hoodwink them with respect to what he believes is democracy.
The present two-day political scenarios -- especially the ruckus today at Question Period -- reinforces my long-held argument that our parliamentary governance is NOT governance by party, but governance by a parliament (government & Opposition) of 308 individually elected representatives -- MPs.
What is now transpiring is how the Westminster model of parliamentary democracy is supposed to work. It is based on trust, confidence, integrity, honour and respect. It was very significant in today's Question Period that I did NOT hear any MP using the term "honourable" in addressing each other. What I saw was a PM trying to bully and destroy an Opposition upon which he must depend, in a minority parliament, to get legislation passed. Harper is trying to run parliament in the manner in which he ran the "Citizen's Coalition."
What Harper fails to understand is that:
1. the fundamental mantra of parliamentary representative government is that EACH representative -- NOT a group/party-- is INDIVIDUALLY voted into parliament by a finite number of electors; that the principal duty of each representative is to HOLD THE EXECUTIVE (cabinet) to account for the measures they lay before the WHOLE parliament; that each representative must be mutually respected, and NOT be made to feel that he is not as important as Harper -- the PM. In parliamentary democracy, the PM is elected just as other MPs are elected by the electorate. And in that electoral respect the PM or members of his cabinet are no more or less IMPORTANT than any other of the elected 307 members.
It shows the dishonourable character of a PM who, both in and outside of parliament deliberately and personally attacks the leader of her Majesty's Loyal Opposition. It shows hypocrisy and contempt of parliament when a PM calls duly elected members of parliament "separatists" when they unite with other opposition groups to DEFEAT him (the PM), but in due course, must depend upon these same separatists for survival of his minority government.
1.1 According to Westminister parliamentary culture the fact that MPs coalesce around one leader or another is mere convention. If a majority of Harper's caucus were to decide to ABANDON him because of sharp disagreement, then Harper would have NO influence as PM. All Harper or any PM would be able to do in such an instance, is to RESIGN, thus causing the possible dissolution of parliament. Example: In April 1874, Conservative PM Bowell was forced to resign when he lost the support and confidence of his Cabinet and caucus. Charles Tupper took over as PM.
2. under the well-established rules of a parliamentary democracy, MINORITY governance means that the group in parliament with the most seats DOES NOT have a mandate to govern as if it had won a MAJORITY of seats. Other group members that have been elected are just as legitimately elected as the group members with more, although NOT an absolute majority of seats. AND THEY ALL FORM A INTEGRAL PART OF THE WHOLE PARLIAMENT. Neither the Canadian voter to whom Harper is not pandering, nor any of Harper's sheepish MPs seem to UNDERSTAND this concept of "the confidence of parliament-as-a-whole."
2.1 Even when one group has a majority of seats, this does NOT mean that each member of the group must always vote in the manner in which the Executive (Cabinet) wants them to vote in parliament. Indeed, minority government means that the group with the most seats has to depend upon one or more of the other groups for CONFIDENCE to implement its proposed measures. And that it is normal and mandatory that it change and adjust its proposed legislation to suit the demands of the group or groups upon whom it depends for confidence.
2.2 FINALLY, if the group(s) with the more, but not a clear majority of seats, loses the CONFIDENCE and TRUST of the majority of the total members of the parliament, then that group MUST hand over governing to a group WHICH CAN hold or obtain the confidence of the wholly assembled parliament.
3. On October 14th, 2008, the electorate elected 308 representatives to the Canadian House of Commons; they did NOT elect any one party to parliament.
4. The fact that groups of these 308 representatives choose to ally themselves together under one or another banner, is merely conventional and not parliamentary. There is NO mention of political parties as elected entities in the Canadian Constitution. Many electors do not seem to understand this fact.
5. Such alliances are at the discretion and trust of each member in the respective group(s) (party), and that one member, or those members of each group can restructure the composition of that group (ex: crossing the Floor, or forming coalitions: Ex: the "Democratic Coalition" group formed against Reform Leader Day in the late 90's 2000) whenever a simple majority of the total representatives/members believes that the Integrity of CONFIDENCE of the group as a WHOLE -- the parliamentary system -- is being threatened or abused. This is what Harper is doing right now -- abusing the confidence of parliament.
The concept of Individual and independent rather than Party representation shows the resilience of the traditional parliamentary representative system, and shows the powerfulness of the first-past-the post electoral system. Individual and independent representation is so important that members of Harper's group are now hoping that they can CONVINCE at least 12 of the individually elected MPs from the three Opposition parties to vote with Harper's neo-cons, in order to kill the Opposition's intended vote of NON-confidence. Consider that if these MPs had been elected by proportional representation, many of them would have been chosen -- not elected -- by a party or group. And it would be much harder for MPs chosen under the banner of a specific group or party, to contemplate switching from one group to another.
Further, there would be no need to consult an outside person like a governor-general in order to ensure the smoothe running of the parliament. And this is the powerful nature of the monarchical parliamentary governance, where a non-biased, remote-but-steady hand, is always there as a final arbiter, to ensure STABILITY of government; and ensure that a power-hungry PM and his government (minority or majority) do not continuously ABUSE the parliamentary system.
Imagine what would happen were Harper and his Neo-cons ever receive a clear majority from the electorate??
Could this not be the reason why, on October 14th, 2008, the electorate DID NOT give Harper and his neo-cons a clear majority.
What goes around comes around: I clearly believed that since Harper's deceptive, tactical, and unscrupulous (Remember the David Orchard treatment; the Sunday "back-door"signing-into-existence of the new CPC) take-over of the PCPC in December 2003, that his unscrupulous actions would come back to haunt him. I did not expect it to be as DRAMATIC as it is, and is going to be. However, Harper's destructive manoeuvring to fence off legitimate defeat by the present Opposition reveals his future mental tactics that he would use in dismantling the Canadian Federation.
Goodbye, Harper, McKay, Van Loan, Prentice, Clement, Flaherty etc. Canadians DO NOT want your destructive leadership!!
Glenn Harewood.
===================================
From: John Kruithof
Subject: How to handle Harper
To: info@gg.ca
For the Governor General
How to handle Harper when he calls? First step first. There is talk of him having lost the confidence of the House. First order of business is to have the House actually vote on the motion. Since the House belongs to all Members of Parliament, Harper alone should not dictate as to when that vote takes place. Do not prorogue. Get the business over with. If Harper loses the vote, go to step two. Allow a coalition to govern. That, in a nutshell, is what parliamentary democracy is about. Never mind speculating about things that may, or may not, happen.
Good luck,
John Kruithof
Ottawa ON K1V 7C9
December 3, 2008
===================================
From: "Ian Berg"
Subject: RE: BELOW(30) December 2nd
I believe this will blow up in the Liberals' faces. The Progressive Conservative and Conservative parties have blown hot and cold in their dealings with Quebec separatists, nationalists and autonomists. It's a fact that the Progressive Conservative Party invited them into their ranks to break the Liberals' hold on Quebec in 1984. It's also true that the Conservative party was open in 2004 to governing with the Bloc Quebecois. But the Liberals have a long tradition of being the party of Quebec federalists. It defined Stephane Dion's early career in federal politics. Permitting them to have a say over a Liberal-NDP government's policies defies the very identity of Liberals. Liberal candidates in the next general election, whether the party is running as an incumbent government or still as the opposition, will face many angry Liberal voters. The ace-in-the-hole for Conservatives would be if they have a new leader whom these angry Liberals can support.
Ian Berg
Calgary, Alberta
===================================
From: "Merle A. Jacobs."
To: David Hawn, Ottawa
Yes - as he sure is a bully and look - even the US found their bully a negative leader for the country. Do we need to wait? Let him leave and get a new leader - a progressive one and work with the other parties for Canada. After they only got 37% of the vote d\t making Dion a PhD look like a fool d\t language (English) skills and not d\t a lack of IQ and EQ. Merle
~ The ability to understand and recognize how things have an effect on us and others
allows for a choice of how we resolve to live our lives. ~ Merle Jacobs.
===================================
From: Roger Buxton
Subject: Coalition Government
Dear Editor,
It is with great interest, I watch the impasse that parliament has gotten it self into in Ottawa. I am sure that for most of us, it is a very frustrating if not an educational experience to have to stand by and watch this example of a modern day "Nero fiddling while Rome burns". But the big question is, who is the incarnation of "Nero" in todays drama. Is it the leaders of the opposition or is it the Prime Minister Harper. For any one that knows any thing about parliamentary procedure it is evident that what the opposition is doing has lots of precedent and is constitutional quite legal. Now it would seem to me that a leader of minority Parliament would feel some obligation to have his ducks all in a row and know he had the support of the majority of the Members of Parliament before he came into the house with any statement or legislation that was going to be voted on. Any other tactic can only be looked upon as a form of "Russian Roulette" with his mandate of leadership of our country.
What a shame that this man can not work with the hand he is dealt to lead this great country that we live in!!
Roger C. Buxton
RR 2, Site 3, Box 24
Millet, AB.
T0C 1Z0
===================================
From: "Dorothy Dobbie"
Subject: Re: BELOW(30) December 2nd
Isn't it lovely to see that Prime Ministers serve at the sufferance of Parliament and not the other way around?
Dorothy Dobbie
===================================
From: "William Wolferstan"
Subject: Re: BELOW(30) December 2nd
Hello Joe,
Thanks to John Anderson for his excellent summary of the options open to the GG.....
The question before the GG is:
"Who commands the confidence of a majority of the members"?... and ...
Are we to have mob rule or parliamentary democracy?
Respectfully submitted,
W.H.Wolferstan
=====
Noun1.demagogue
A leader who obtains power by means of impassioned appeals to the emotions and prejudices of the populace.
===================================
From: "Barry Douglas"
Subject: disaster in Ottawa
The following is the response I sent back to "Irving R. Gerstein" re: the solicitation of donations with the email subject "The privilege to govern must be earned, not taken".
-----Original Message-----
Sent: December 2, 2008 10:13 AM
To: 'Irving R. Gerstein'
Subject: No donation will be sent - The privilege to govern must be earned, not taken.
The ongoing disaster in Ottawa can be placed directly on the shoulders of Stephen Harper.
He is first among equal – the PRIME Minister but he is acting like a school yard bully who refuses to work with other representatives and their parties.
And you, and Stephen, and unfortunately many others in a party that I have supported for years, have forgotten that you do not have a majority – and that the largest proportion of the voters in Canada did not support the conservatives.
GROW UP – LEARN TO GOVERN – WORK WITH OTHER MP'S AND OTHER POLITICAL PARTIES.
AND EARN THE CONFIDENCE OF THE ELECTORATE.
IT HAS BEEN LOST - What a self-imposed disaster.
Your Daily Digest has provided the following comments:
"A petty, vindictive, hyper partisan control freak – but no leader."
"Huge blunder by including unnecessary and purposefully provocative measures in the economic update."
AND HE HAS THE GALL TO STATE THAT IT WAS OK FOR HIM, HARPER, TO TRY TO FORM A COALITION WITH THE BLOC IN SEPTEMBER 2004 – BUT THAT IT IS BLATANTLY NOT OK FOR DION IN 2008.
Why can't Harper try to work with the other parties?
If he can't, or won't, he should resign as leader and let someone else try.
===================================
From: "Suan H.Booiman"
Subject: CHAOS
Conservative spoke
Hell broke loose
After cancellation of funding
Opposition join separatists
Saving their own first before Nation
===================================
From: "John Dowson"
Subject: Re: BELOW(30) December 2nd
From John Dowson If Stephen Harper is the political tactician that he thinks he is the smart move would be to let the coalition have the government, we are in tough economic times and just sit on the sidelines and let them fall apart. The economics will get worse and by May the whole thing will fall apart, vote them down and Harper can say " look what they did, it wasn't our fault, but we can sure clean it up" Why is he fighting to keep the power when the world is in a fix. To me that's like fighting to stay on as captain of the Titanic John Dowson
===================================
Subject: Darth Parizeau strikes back ... and back .. and back ...
From: "Efstratios Psarianos"
Is it just me, or is political discourse getting crasser and stupider as time goes by? Here's the beginning of a message that the CPC's just e-mailed to me.
PARIZEAU ENDORSES COALITION
Parizeau set to get the weak, unstable and disoriented federal government he always dreamed of. Now, more than ever, we must all Stand up for Canada.
It is becoming increasingly clear that Stéphane Dion and Jack Layton have sold out their principles by signing a separatist pact with the Bloc Québécois a pact now blessed by hard liner Jacques Parizeau, a former PQ Premier.
Well, I suppose that with all the modern media we have these days, The Boogey Man can't project his aura of fear like he used to. Enter Parizenstein.
As for Mssrs Layton and Dion selling their principles: heck, they got a pretty good deal. Add Mr. Duceppe to that gang and they intend to put their mitts on no less than $30 billion, collectively.
Back in 2005, Mr. Layton (I regret that I swore that I'd never call him Jack-o any more) shook down Paul Martin for a measly $4.3 billion. Worse, he never even got it since the CPC wiped out the budget in which it was embedded.
As for the Liberals: well, they got a good deal, too. After all, since they most often GIVE their principles away just for a little love and for a House of Commons roof above their heads, their getting 30 bills works out quite well. If they can pull off their scam, that is.
As for the Bloc: well, they can play Julius Caesar and say that they're doing just to maintain their dignity. Mind you, 'dignity' in Roman days didn't mean what it now means to us, but the metaphor holds.
So, in this troubled time, will Jimmy Dean Dion swerve off before plunging down the cliff, with Sweety Layton looking on adoringly from the passenger seat and Devil Duceppe lying back in back? Will Bad Boy Steve drive HIS hot rod off instead? Will both?
Now playing out in the media: Game of Chicken a la Rebel Without a Cause! See your favourite dim lights (I can't say 'stars' without laughing) twinkle, swell, and fizzle. Brought to you by your Strato-chummy at Black Hole Productions.
(Hahahaha ... I should been a writer. Then again, there are THOUSANDS of comedians out work, and here Iam trying to be funny. I'd best stick to engineering.)
Stratos
P.S. From Parizeau to astronomy ... politics connect everything. The WONDER of it all!
P.P.S. So what, should I offer my services to the CPC? Or maybe the CBC? Canadian politics and comedy have been pretty lame, lately. Think I have a future?
===================================
Subject: Coalition rallies
From: Odette Kalman
Aren't you all excited to get down to mingle with likeminded people to support
a coalition government – stop the status quo and stand up for "Change" - Yes, we can!
This message has also been sent to some across Canada in the hope that in their own neighbourhood
similar events may be organized. You'll find a full list of rallies planned for across the country at Canadians for a Progressive Coalition http://www.progressivecoalition.ca/regional.php Please make every effort to attend one in your area, bring a sign expressing how you feel and please forward this notice as widely as possible
===================================
From: "Richard Konopada"
Subject: RE: BELOW(30) December 2nd
Sadly, Common Sense is sorely missed as our political leaders play their me too, blame game.
_____________________________________
An Obituary printed in the London Times........
'Today we mourn the passing of a beloved old friend, Common Sense, who has been with us for many years. No one knows for sure how old he was, since his birth records were long ago lost in bureaucratic red tape. He will be remembered as having cultivated such valuable lessons as:
Knowing when to come in out of the rain; why the early bird gets the worm; Life isn't always fair; and maybe it was my fault.
Common Sense lived by simple, sound financial policies (don't spend more than you can earn) and reliable strategies (adults, not children, are in charge).
His health began to deteriorate rapidly when well-intentioned but overbearing regulations were set in place. Reports of a 6-year-old boy charged with sexual harassment for kissing a classmate; teens suspended from school for using mouth wash after lunch; and a teacher fired for reprimanding an unruly student, only worsened his condition.
Common Sense lost ground when parents attacked teachers for doing the job that they themselves had failed to do in disciplining their unruly children. It declined even further when schools were required to get parental consent to administer sun lotion or an Aspirin to a student; but could not inform parents when a student became pregnant and wanted to have an abortion.
Common Sense lost the will to live as the churches became businesses and criminals received better treatment than their victims. Common Sense took a beating when you couldn't defend yourself from a burglar in your own home and the burglar could sue you for assault.
Common Sense finally gave up the will to live, after a woman failed to realize that a steaming cup of coffee was hot. She spilled a little in her lap, and was promptly awarded a huge settlement .
Common Sense was preceded in death, by his parents, Truth and Trust, his wife, Discretion, his daughter, Responsibility, his son, Reason
He is survived by his 4 stepbrothers; I Know My Rights, I Want It Now; Someone Else Is To Blame; I'm A Victim
Not many attended his funeral because so few realized he was gone. If you still remember him, pass this on. If not, join the majority and do nothing.
===================================
From: Gord Hill
Subject: Tonight's Speech by Harper
Dear Joe,
I have thought this through as best I can - Harper's dysfunctionality was apparent even by other conservative minded Canadians never mind those that are not.
I do not want to get into this fray but save our energy for our January meeting this must be a BIG BANG.
I have written numerous lines. I keep deleting them. This is not the approach I think we should take, we must go after the fallen Crown, let the hounds look after the meat.
We must show that we are ready to govern in a caring and progressive manner with enough publicity, energy and appeal to make us capable and ready to serve after the next election.
Canadians want change. They do not like their present options. We need to show that we are the Option and have them come to us.
Build it and they will come.
We need to now state who we are and the beliefs we hold as often, wherever and whenever we can.
All the Best,
Gord
===================================
From: "Dale Swirsky"
Subject: LTE
Joe, please send the below to ALL your contacts and post on below 30.
Dear Editor:
The English Revolution was fought to establish the principle that parliament is supreme.
In Canada, we elect a parliament, not a prime minister.
The main check on the dictatorial powers of our prime minister is the supremacy of parliament.
If parliament is not supreme, which is the principle Harper is trying to establish in order to preserve his power, then what checks are there on the dictatorial power of future prime ministers? The appointed Governor General?
If our elected representatives cannot determine the fate of parliament six weeks after being elected by we the people, then we the people will be at the mercy of one man, for that one man will know we do not want elections every six weeks.
Whatever one's partisan views, that would be a situation which should send a shiver down our democratic spines.
---Dale Swirsky
===================================
Subject: Re: Members of Parliament are elected, not Prime Ministers
Joe I have posted both your comments and those from the Conservative web site along with comments of my own.
The story is called:
Lots of people lose their jobs, its tough but life goes on.
http://ensign.ftlcomm.com/reality/edgingtowardawareness/weeklyRant/2008/december/december003/jobLoss.html
Faster Than Light Communications
===================================
From: John Brine
Sent: Wednesday, December 03, 2008 2:01 PM
To: 'info@gg.ca'
Subject: Support for the Coalition
Excellency,
Thank you for accepting my emailed letter to you.
Canada was founded in 1867 by on a coalition government of Cartier Liberals and MacDonald Conservatives.
Regions of Upper and Lower Canada and some Liberals and Conservatives were divided as to whether there should be a Canada or not.
It was only a few of nation building members of the Liberal and Conservative parties that forged ahead in a coalition .Without the Liberal-Conservative Coalition Canada would never have been what it is today.
Canada is at another one of these great moments.
We need the coalition of visionaries to secure Canada's future economically and politically.
In a country of equals, no one can be more equal that another person.
The coalition represents the greatest number of all Canadians. Our struggle must be always to support and defend everyone the best way we all can.
Thank you,
John Brine
===================================
To: info@gg.ca
From: Caspar Davis
Subject: Parliamentary Situation
Cc: Duceppe.G@parl.gc.ca ...snip... emay@magma.ca,savoie.d@parl.gc.ca
Dear Michaëlle Jean, Governor General of Canada:
I understand that Mr.Harper will be asking you to prorogue Parliament in the morning in order to evade a confidence vote that he will surely lose.
This "crisis" was brought on single handedly by Mr Harper who, after many promises to act more cooperatively, took his first opportunity to attack the core values of all the other parties, and attempted to cripple or destroy them by terminating public funding. The Prime Minister is clearly incapable of working with anyone who does not kowtow to him, especially those who have the temerity to disagree with his right wing agenda.
Among the other offensive ideas in his "budgetary update" Mr. Harper is proposing to sell off public assets at the very time when asset values are severely depressed, in order to hide the fact that he will have a budget deficit. I also have information that he is planning to cut $200 million from the already severely depleted budget of the CBC. It is clear that Mr. Harper has no appreciation of the value of Canadian culture, or of most core Canadian values, such as our reputation as peacekeepers and proud owners of an effective social safety net.
Now, instead of admitting and apologizing for his reprehensible conduct, Mr. Harper is falsely claiming that the coalition includes the Bloc, and some of his MP's are talking about a treasonous coalition - ignoring the fact that the Bloc are not members of the coalition but have only agreed not to bring it down for 18 months, and conveniently forgetting that he and his party have several times sought coalitions with the same Bloc. And the Bloc are not the only people who talk about separation from Canada - indeed they have not talked much about that for some time now - and they clearly represent many many Quebecois who are not in favour of separation. Moreover, there are many members of Mr. Harper's own party in Alberta who are talking about separation as blatantly as any member of the Bloc.
Mr. Harper's party received little more than a third of the vote in the recent election, and he was elected as nothing but an MP. He and the other members of his party seem to be unaware of or willfully blind to the fact that in Canada we do not elect Prime Ministers. A Prime Minister MUST enjoy the confidence of the House. If he loses it he must resign, not send Parliament home so it cannot vote on the issue. Having no understanding (or feigning ignorance) of the Canadian Parliamentary system, it is perhaps no wonder that Mr. Harper has little appreciation of Canadian values. Being a congenital bully, it is also no surprise that he is unable to cooperate with anyone who dares to disagree with him. But it does fatally impair his ability to lead a minority government. Mr. Harper should resign, both as Prime Minister and as head of the party that he has led so grievously astray.
The 63% of Canadians who did not vote for Mr. Harper's party deserve to have a government that respects the values and traditions of the majority of Canadians - values that are largely shared by the Liberals, the NDP, the Bloc, and the Greens - and quite possibly by many Conservatives as well, if they only dared to speak.
Please deny Mr. Harper's self-serving request and ask the Coalition to form a government that will act in the interests of all Canadians.
Sincerely,
Caspar Davis
Victoria, BC
Caspar Davis
===================================
Subject: Letter to Editor re: Coalition must be rejected, even if price is another election, Editorial, Dec. 3
Date: Thu, 04 Dec 2008 00:26:26 -0800
From: Larry Kazdan
To: sunletters@vancouversun.com
- Re: Coalition must be rejected, even if price is another election, Editorial, Dec. 3
===================================
From: "Robert Ede"
To: info@pco-bcp.gc.ca
Subject: Summon the whole Privy Council - to recommend "An Elegant Solution"
Cc: Governor General" <Info@gg.ca>, "Rt Hon Stephen Harper" <pm@pm.gc.ca>, "Pierre Bourque" <pierre@bourque.com>,
Dear Mr Lynch,
Summon the whole Privy Council!
Who better or more ably equipped with the institutional memory to consult with Ms Jean
Summon each and every one ... going back to the dean, Paul Hellyer 1957
The (old, titular) Governor General is Dead, Long Live the (new 1867 revitalized) Governor General
Robert (Rob) Ede,
===================================
From: "Brent Cameron"
Joe:
Through you, to the denizens of the DD.
In response to the two letters, there really is a clear difference.
One asks directly, and explicitly, for the opportunity to form a government, while the other simply asks for all options to be explored.
We know that Layton and Duceppe have been hatching something since 2004, and we know that Harper has categorically denied any desire to enter a coalition with these gentlemen.
The ambiguity of the second letter allowed the NDP and BQ to interpret the intent as "form a coalition", but also allowed the CPC to pursue its desire for an election.
Bottom line: The letter with Harper's signature does not rule out an election to settle the matter. The letter currently before Her Excellency does rule it out.
It might seem an exercise in semantics, but you know how politics can be.
Cheers (and no hard feelings - just respect),
Brent Cameron
=====
. . . would you agree these words "as constitutional practice has determined, to consult the opposition leaders and consider all of your options before exercising your constitutional authority." are applicable to the present be the Governor General's decision relate to dissolution or prorogation to avoid a vote of confidence.
As always,
Joe
=====
Absolutely, Joe.
It is the GG's responsibility to consider all options, namely prorogation, allowing the coalition to form a government, or an outright dissolution. Her priority must be the dignity of the institution, and the continued stability of the underlying system - regardless of who is the beneficiary. Anything less would be a failure on her part, or on those who she depends upon for counsel.
Whatever any of our feelings on the subject, I think it is important to uphold the GG's right to render a decision. Mind you, a decision is only as good as the advice proffered to render it.
Whether or not the current government holds, or falls, may be irrelevant at this point.
Within a year, there will most assuredly be another election, as either Harper will be defeated outright on a confidence motion, or Duceppe will pull his support for a coalition government.
The ensuing election will be where voters have a chance to vent their anger and frustration at whoever they deem ultimately responsible for this situation - Harper, or the 3 coalition partners.
I don't know who is going to be held to account - public opinion appears to be very fluid right now - but I know that at least one leader, or one party, is going to be taken out to the woodshed for a good thrashing.
===================================
From: "The Natroses"
Hi Joe, The 2 letters do have differences in leaving the reader to make assumptions. The Liberal letter, is clear in their intent to form a coalition. The reader cannot make any assumptions.
However, Harper's letter has the same intention, but allows the reader to make their own assumptions by only providing an unclear plan, plus the signatures of the Bloc, Conservative and NDP.
As for the content, it clearly shows that Harper if nothing else is a hypocrite. "We believe that, should a request for dissolution arise this should give you cause, as constitutional practice has determined, to consult the opposition leaders and consider all of your options before exercising your constitutional authority." Harper is now stating the opposite, declaring the coalition affront to democracy. Harper is trying to turn this into a unity crisis. He is not above using any tactic to crush this coalition, and if he has to use the Bloc Quebecois as his battering rod, he will.
people, should question the honor of Harper. The opposition parties are right, when they stated that not only has Harper lost the confidence of the house, but he has lost the trust of the house.
The two letters are part of the numerous proof, that Harper wants power by crushing his perceived enemies, using any means outside and inside the democratic process. Just ask Danny Williams if you can trust Harper, or anyone you dared to have a differing opinion or ideology or policy formation.
The opposition parties of today, united because they not only lost confidence, but trust. Harper's letter, the intent is the same, but his letter was nothing more than seeing an opportunity to advance his cause in becoming the Prime Minister.
===================================
Subject: Dog bites man ...
From: "Efstratios Psarianos"
Holy Pavlovian action, Batman. My sterotype-o-meter is reading OFF the SCALE!!!!
Stratos
P.S. On the positive side, it's nice to know that you can count on SOME things in this world.
P.P.S. I guess the 'Should we support the actual government?' resolutions got voted down by 0.01% to 99.99%. Hey, even unions have malcontents! (And I'm NOT talking of the 99.99%).
Three major unions to urge Governor General to allow coalition government (Subcaption: 'Dog bites man')
TORONTO - The heads of three of Canada's largest industrial unions will join hands today to urge the Governor General to allow a coalition government.Prime Minister Harper will visit Rideau Hall today where he's expected to ask Michaelle Jean to suspend Parliament until the end of January.
However, Dave Coles, of the Communications, Energy and Paperworkers Union, Ken Neumann of the United Steelworkers and CAW president Ken Lewenza want Michaelle Jean to let a coalition government lead Canada.
In a joint statement, they say proroguing Parliament "would further derail the economy at a time when drastic support is needed."
They also say industries they represent, such as steel production, the auto industry and forestry, have been devastated by job losses since 2003.
The union leaders, who will hold a joint news conference in Toronto, say dissolving Parliament would come at the expense of already hard-hit communities, workers and families.
Should Jean not agree to Harper's request to suspend Parliament, Liberal Leader Stephane Dion is poised to lead an Liberal-NDP coalition, supported by the Bloc Quebecois, under a deal signed earlier this week.
===================================
From: "Joel Heard"
To: joe.hueglin@bellnet.ca
Subject: Will Canada's Gov't be next casualty of crisis?
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
December 4, 2008
10:00 a.m.
CONTACT: The Real News Network
Taruna Godric, 416-916-5202 ext. 414
E-mail: smcommunications@therealnews.com
Website: http://www.therealnews.com
Will Canada's Gov't be next casualty of crisis?
Leo Panitch: Conservative's 'anti-tax obsession' is similar to policy that made the 30's worse
Less than two months after his re-election Canadian Prime Minister Stephen Harper and his minority conservative government appears to be on the edge of defeat at the hands of a newly formed coalition of opposition parties. The Real News spoke to Leo Panitch, Professor of Political Science at York University about the economics behind this conflict.
The three opposition parties are using the Conservative Government's budget as a platform for their proposed over-throw of the Harper led government. The opposition was unsatisfied with the budget stating that it lacked a stimulus package that would protect Canadians in the current recession while the Conservatives are claiming there is only one provision within the budget that the opposition did not agree with, a provision that would withdraw public financing for these opposition parties.
According to Prof. Panitch, we must put the Conservative budget in the context of "this being a typical anti-tax government..anti-public spending, that's what it's backbone is;" a balance the budget approach that sounds "like the old orthodox parties during the great depression which was made much much worse by an adherence to balancing the budget."
While Prof. Panitch sees it as somewhat ironic that during the elections these opposition parties campaigned on a balanced budget approach to gain popular approval through a non-taxation budget, he believes they have now gained confidence through the support of international trends towards stimulus packages as a resolve to the economic crisis. With this confidence they are now trying to make their move, he says "they quite genuinely feel that you have to a stimulus in Canada and a very serious one, they're talking about 30 billion."
For complete coverage of this story visit our website:
http://therealnews.com/t/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=31&Itemid=74&jumival=2905&updaterx=2008-12-04+09%3A38%3A27
===================================
From: Rubie Britton
Subject: Merry Christmas
MERRY CHRISTMAS
When you finish putting it together, watch what happens.
Click here: Santa's Jigsaw
Many thanks Ruby. Betcha it'll be sent around the world (Aase will cover Danmark)
===================================
From: Joe Hueglin <joe.hueglin@bellnet.ca>
Subject: The Prime Minister and precedents.
Whether is be dissolution or prorogation Stephen Harper will be making a 180 degree volte-face should he advise the Governor General otherwise than this he gave in 2004 : "should a request for dissolution arise this should give you cause, as constitutional practice has determined, to consult the opposition leaders and consider all of your options before exercising your constitutional authority."
In acting to attack Liberal and NDP collusion with the Bloc, which he did in the Sept. 9, 2004 letter to the Govrnor General, and which has had its most virulent manifestation to this point in these words of Bob Dechert, Member - Mississauga-Erindale "That is as close to treason and sedition as I can imagine," http://ca.news.yahoo.com/s/capress/081203/national/parliament_crisis_liberals there is consistency with precedent..
The 1997 strategy of his party was enflaming tensions between Canada's two linguistic groups through lawn signs reading "No more Prime Ministers from Quebec." in order to seek to win enough seats outside the Province of Quebec to form the Opposition.
Consistent as well is spending monies surplus to those that could be used in an election due to Canada Election Act limitations.
In this instance http://www3.thestar.com/static/audio/NocoalitionSepartists.mp3 serves the purposes of shaping the publics' opinion that separatists have "the balance of power" in the coalition, that a government with majority support of elected Members of Parliament in the House of Commons would be "overturning" the result of the election by the "back door" and through asking listeners "shouldn't you get to decide?^, the view is developed that an election must be held if democracy is to be served.
Stephen Harper's responsible precedent he will ignore. The divisive ones are in full spate.
Joe Hueglin
===================================
From: "Randy Kubik"
Subject: WHAT'S NEXT
On Prorogation and What's Next:
no need to rally now... don't waste my time... too busy struggling
the next step?
In addition to actually doing what has been said today, actively working on the Budget along with the Opposition Coalition through Mr. Dion and communicating ongoing progress and roadblocks...
concurrent with above, what has to happen from now and until the next confidence vote (and then continued beyond) will be achieving a perceived and actual "Monumental Change", as the Liberal Leader stated today. Mr. Dion said Monumental Change in Harper would be necessary for his supporting the new budget (if appropriate new stimulus was included) and then moving forward to regain trust. If there is a perceived change on a "monumental" scale, at least in the PMO, then it will be politically impossible for them to vote against.
The CP, the party now, rightfully and prudently, and with respect, has to think of what is best for the Party as well as Canada. An Intervention by the members is required.
Mr. Harper has to be leashed to the satisfaction of the members, so this type of self serving partisan political blundering can never be allowed to happen again! Mr. Harper brought us to the brink for no good reason. He must heed the wishes of the party members on this if he wants to remain the leader... so please, at this time, please tone down the ideology, and do it for real!
Efforts to restore the people "confidence" in the political class must be made officially... something good must come out of this crisis.... something good for the people.
We all know we all love Quebec from coast to coast and to the north. So we should leave alone the issue of the Bloq or minimize it and communicate positively and for real to the people of Quebec about their collective interests... create something new, a grass roots mechanism that would bypass or "assist" the Bloq.
I think good Statesmanship is "getting over it" quickly... by going beyond the lip service, extending new invitations, sincere acts of contrition and forgiveness and acceptance of shared responsibilities, and then being able to work well with others, turning a new page, given all that went down, to get things done making some compromise along the way. Compromise can be good. Of course we should all the while strive to please the maximum.
just my twoney's worth
R
===================================
From: "Paul Arnold"
Subject: Maple Leafs win the Stanley Cup
TORONTO MAPLE LEAFS WIN STANLEY CUP!!!
Canada was stunned Monday when it was announced that The Stanley Cup will be
awarded to the Toronto Maple Leafs, possibly as early as December 6th. The
cup will be stripped from 2008 playoff champions the Detroit Red Wings and
be awarded to the Leafs, who didn't even make the playoffs.
How is this possible, Canadians ask?
Well, the Leafs have formed a coalition with eastern conference
semifinalists the Montreal Canadians, and conference quarter finalists the
Ottawa Senators, now outnumbering the Red Wings.
Keeping with precedent, none of the teams from the west were consulted!
According to current Leaf coach Stupid Degong, Ottawa's coach Latent Defect and
Montreal's coach Folk Canada "the Red Wings have lost the
confidence of the league and should hand the cup over immediately to our
coalition".
NHL commissioner Gary Make It Better is cutting short a European trip to try to
resolve the unprecedented hockey crisis that could force a second playoff
series, or see an opposing team coalition take the cup.
More to come from the theatre of the absurd.
===================================
From: "Mark-Alan Whittle"
Subject: Coalition Redux
Hi Joe,
And now thanks to the GG we get to enjoy Christmas and the after effects before the three horsemen of the Apocalypse remount their assault on democracy. Good thing there will be an actual election if the Conservative budget fails. Dion will still be at the helm of the Liberals. And who says Harper still isn't the master tactician? Jack and Stephane tried to create a crisis like Snoebelin did in Ontario back in the day, to effect changes the government wanted. Unlike John who got the job done, Layton and Dion failed miserably. My MP is NDP and when I questioned her about this coalition she replied with a letter to the editor she wrote chock full of "presents" for every socialist cause known to man to "stimulate" the economy then called this spending orgy "prudent". I asked her where this separatist coalition would get the billions and billions of dollars to spend? I'm still waiting for a reply. I won't hold my breath as this coalition is DOA at the ballot box. Merry Christmas to you and yours.
Respectfully,
Mark-Alan Whittle
===================================
From: Suan H.Booiman
To: Harper.S@parl.gc.ca
Cc: Defence Hiebert, Russ Sec.of State
Subject: planning
December 4,2008.
The Rt.Hon.Mr.Stephen Harper
Prime Minister of Canada.
Dear Mr.Harper
Office closed till January 26, 2009.
A good opportunity for you to write a financial statement worthy for a
united country. The drafting of economic condition depends entirely on
the action of the United States, which in my view, with the arrival of
Obama, will be one of protectionism. If that is the case any funding
of the automotive industry will be meaningless and costly.
Besides that any financial report should clearly identify the provincial
rights based on the size of population,removing any thoughts of political
preference or heritage.The political concentration of industries within
Central Canada should not now or ever be a reason to provide greater
support.
No free trades agreement should be expended till there is a clear sign
of free trade in the country without any preference from and to a
province of goods, be it produced or farmed.
Further like you to hold a referendum asking three questions:
1. Should the Federal Government fund the Party election cost? Yes / No
2. Should Canada be bilingingual, meaning French - English speaking Yes / No
3. Should a provincial political party have the right to have seats in the House of Commons Yes / No
Three questions for the price of one, a true grassroots action.
Regards,
Mr.Suan H.Booiman
===================================
From: "Stephen(dot)Leacock"
To: "Michaelle Jean" <michaelle@radio-canada.ca>, "Governor General" <Info@gg.ca>,
Subject: The Emperor's New Clothes now on display on Sussex Drive
My dear Citizen-Subject of the Canadian Crown,
Before my first death in 1944, the Governor General was a "somebody".
In those days the British North America Act stipulated that every Bill or Parliamentary measure needed Royal Assent to be granted by the GovGen.
If the Prime Minister proposed something, the GG did not have to agree with it - the BNA s.12 (compare s.13) states that the GG can consult with His/Her Privy Council s.11 and act with and or without their Advice &/or Consent or as an individual.
My good friend Ed.E Trebor assures my (as does this internet super-highway) that the BNA/Constitution 1867 still says exactly the same things - no amendments were made ... just that pesky Order in Council 1940-1121 that merged the Privy Council into the orbit of the Prime Minister (removing those Offices from supervising the PM and being accountable to the GG)... could that one change, that one non-legislated, non-constitutional, non-voted Executive Order have made such a profound difference?
The Governor General (man, she's a looker) has now acted on goofed-up advice, seemingly source from only the prime beneficiary of that advice.
Crazy.. why doesn't She call up the former members of the Privy Council - dig into that Institutional Memory that's also beyond the reach and influence of the party-president-of-the-day's, short-term needs/wants.
If it's possible to have a coalition replace an exhausted and exasperated Steve Harper in Dec'08 or Jan'09, why didn't that option get a full examination in Sept'08 instead of having a darned-near useless election?
Did Harper bounce that one around Rideau Hall before nudging aside the final concerns or considerations of his own Fixed Election dates Legislation?
Doesn't this lovely, albeit thinly qualified, ex-CBC, ex-Haitian, English-as-a-Second-Language, non-aged, non-man know the breadth and depth of her duties and responsibilities?
The GG is supposed to keep the PM from getting carried away with his/her (PM) own importance. The GG is supposed to say No or reserve judgement on a mesasure until Vice-Regal is sure that the best interests of Parliament and Canada are served.
Ms Jean decided within 2 hours of Mr Harper's arrival .... who else did she check with?
Did they discuss an All-the-Talents cabinet? ... the sort of collaboration usually taken up in emergencies, war, crises of confidence? ... I'm sure you get my drift
Is it me, or somebody else that is hopelessly stupid or Unfit for their Office? The Emperor's New Clothes.
--
Stephen(dot)Leacock
c/o Ed E.Trebor
Thornhill ON L3T 4P5
http://stephenleacock.blogspot.com/
===================================
From: Joseph
Subject: Ponder the cause of the economic crisis
Ponder this
Joe Smith started the day early having set his
alarm clock
(MADE IN JAPAN ) for6am.
While his coffeepot
(MADE IN CHINA )
was perking, he shaved with his
electric razor
(MADE IN HONG KONG ).
He put on a
dress shirt
(MADE IN SRI LANKA ),
designer jeans
(MADE IN SINGAPORE )
and
tennis shoes
(MADE IN KOREA )
After cooking his breakfast in his new
electric skillet
(MADE IN INDIA )
he sat down with his
calculator
(MADE IN MEXICO )
to see how much he could spend today. After setting his
watch
(MADE IN TAIWAN )
to the radio
(MADE IN INDIA )
he got in his car
(MADE IN GERMANY )
filled it with GAS
(from Saudi Arabia )
and continued his search
for a good paying job.
At the end
of yet another discouraging
and fruitless day
checking his
Computer
(Made In Malaysia ),
Joe decided to relax for a while.
He put on his sandals
(MADE IN BRAZIL )
poured himself a glass of
wine
(MADE IN FRANCE )
and turned on his
TV
(MADE IN INDONESIA ),
and then wondered
why he can't find
a good paying job
in CANADA .
===================================
From: Larry Kazdan
Dear Editor,
Harper's Speech from the Throne a.k.a. "I am a Prime Minister King" to be adapted to the music of the Gilbert and Sullivan song Oh, Better Far To Live And Die (I Am A Pirate King)
Larry Kazdan
===================================
Harper wrong on democracy claims: experts
Updated Thu. Dec. 4 2008 5:59 PM ET
Jim Brown, The Canadian Press
http://www.ctv.ca/servlet/ArticleNews/story/CTVNews/20081203/harper_undemocratic_081204/20081204?hub=Politics
OTTAWA -- If there's one point on which Stephen Harper has been adamant, it's his claim that the opposition politicians trying to strip him of power are undermining democracy.Updated Thu. Dec. 4 2008 5:59 PM ET
Jim Brown, The Canadian Press
http://www.ctv.ca/servlet/ArticleNews/story/CTVNews/20081203/harper_undemocratic_081204/20081204?hub=Politics
"The Canadian government has always been chosen by the people," the prime minister declared in his mid-week televised address to the country.
But now, he told viewers, a coalition of opposition parties is trying to oust him through a backroom deal "without your say, without your consent and without your vote."
Just how valid is Harper's claim that changing governments without a new election would be undemocratic?
"It's politics, it's pure rhetoric," said Ned Franks, a retired Queen's University expert on parliamentary affairs. "Everything that's been happening is both legal and constitutional."
Other scholars are virtually unanimous in their agreement. They say Harper's populist theory of democracy is more suited to a U.S.-style presidential system, in which voters cast ballots directly for a national leader, than it is to Canadian parliamentary democracy.
"He's appealing to people who learned their civics from American television," said Henry Jacek, a political scientist at McMaster University.
Harper signed similar document in 2004
In Canada, there's no national vote for prime minister. People elect MPs in 308 ridings, and a government holds power only as long as it has the support of a majority of those MPs.
"We have a rule that the licence to govern is having the confidence of the House of Commons," said Peter Russell, a former University of Toronto professor and adviser to past governors general.
"I'm sorry, that's the rule. If they want to change it to having a public opinion poll, we'd have to reform and rewrite our Constitution."
Harper himself signed a letter to then-Governor General Adrienne Clarkson in 2004, claiming the right to form a government if Paul Martin's minority Liberals could be defeated in a confidence vote in the Commons.
His ostensible partners would have been NDP Leader Jack Layton and Bloc Quebecois Leader Gilles Duceppe -- now derided by Harper as the "socialist" and the "separatist" in Liberal Leader Stephane Dion's coalition.
"I was just as much a sovereigntist then as I am now," Duceppe sniffed Thursday in a reference to Harper's new-found aversion to any deals with the Bloc.
Such facts are conveniently forgotten by some members of Harper's cabinet who have been even more vocal than their boss in the current crisis.
Revenue Minister Jean-Pierre Blackburn has characterized the opposition effort to bring down the Tories as a "coup d'etat."
Transport Minister John Baird spoke Thursday of the need for the Conservatives to go "over the heads" of both Parliament and Gov. Gen. Michaelle Jean to take their case straight to the people.
There's no doubt the central Harper claim -- that he can't legitimately be dumped from office without a new election -- is dead wrong, said Jonathan Rose, a Queen's University political scientist.
But as a communications strategy it has the virtue of being simple, direct and powerful.
"He's using this bludgeon of an argument (but) most people just see the word democracy and have some intuitive connection to it," said Rose.
By contrast, the theory and practice of parliamentary confidence and responsible cabinet government take some explaining.
But Harper may have undermined his own effort Thursday with his visit to the Governor General to get permission to shut down Parliament for seven weeks.
It was the only way he could dodge a confidence vote that would have toppled his government next Monday. But it also presented the Liberals, NDP and Bloc with a ready-made response to the prime minister's claim of democratic superiority.
"You need something visceral and simple," said Rose. "The opposition metaphor of locking the doors to Parliament does it. I think people understand that."
===================================
No comments:
Post a Comment