Well, I made it home from Ottawa late tonight, and to a wife who looked at me on the driveway and said, dryly, “Well, you may just have outdone yourself.â€
And I can’t blame her for wondering just what the hell happened between the time she called me during my 6 am bran flakes and the phone conversation we had at noon. At that time I was watching myself being thrown out of caucus on television.
But as the hours unfolded, I certainly got a clearer picture of the events enveloping me, and the hands behind them. Even before the caucus room doors opened at noon to let the world know my fate, the House of Commons tech guys told me they were under orders from the party to unplug my office computers. I asked what was going on, and was told they had written orders earlier that day from the Conservative Whip to shut me down and reconfigure.
Then I heard my seat in the House of Commons has been moved. Some media folks informed me that not only was I banished to the Liberal side, but that a new seating plan had been printed. And I marveled that something which normally takes days had apparently taken minutes.
All of this, of course, seemed stranger still when I heard the news reported that the Conservative caucus, through a spontaneous grassroots action and without the knowledge of Stephen Harper, or the PMO, had taken a vote and unanimously kicked me out. The charge: compromising caucus confidentiality. The proof: None presented.
Well, things just kept piling up. Some MPs revealed this evening that a vote was not called in national caucus. Silence was taken by the party leadership, on the stage at the front of the room, as concurrence. This differed from the earlier Ontario caucus (this story began there), where a vote was taken, which was not unanimous.
But, hey, this is yesterday’s news. So was Charles McVety, the Toronto televangelist who orchestrated the attempt to scoop away my Conservative nomination in Halton two months ago. He was available to comment on my demise, calling it a “great day.†He also mentioned on CBC that he has a Conservative candidate picked out for my riding.
So, Dorothy asked, what happens next?
Not ever being able to put one past my wife, I told her that the best thing about my day was how a million people had cared enough to come read my blog, that hundreds had commented – many positively, that six hundred emails had flooded in, melting my Berry, that the radio guy in Victoria told me their switchboard was lit up, that my riding executive pledged their troth, that our constituency office was overwhelmed with support calls and that I had people getting on planes to Ottawa to help me out this afternoon. And, as Esther told me a while ago, I don’t know the half of it yet.
And I suppose I don’t.
Quite the day, all round. At the close of it, I am more resolved than ever to do the right thing. It was not easy standing up to those forces today. But we did. And if that was the best shot, I may actually live until Friday.
216 comments ↓
All the johnny come lately current lieberals, NDP, commi…….Greens looking at this site now, beside supporting garth they seem to want to point to Alberta as the boogieman.
I think Garth and all of us posters from Ontario need to remember this is Canada. Before yapping to loud maybe we should just shut down the Auto Industrie etc.(oh wait,, the liberals, ndp and buzz hargrove and his union wouldn’t be happy to say nothing about you and me) and solve the problem. Naahh, lets just Tax Alberta!
Take a look at what Alberta is doing > http://www3.gov.ab.ca/env/climate/docs/takingaction.pdf
If anybody want’s to know the inside scoop just ask me 
http://environment.gov.ab.ca/default.aspx
————————————–
I posted the following a few day’s ago. It was insite from taking part in the Ontario caucas!!!
———————————–
Garth say’s: For an even curioser reason, I felt today was a reasonable one on which to reprint it.
Aahhh…..yes
“Guilty consciense about being such a Red Tory – Liberal-Lite, wannabe Green”
I supported a candidate from the Conservative party, not the Garth Turner party. I cannot see how you have benefited your constituents in any way with your grandstanding. You appear to be a publicity hound, with a strong personal need for others to pay attention to you.
From awhile ago: Globe and Mail
OTTAWA — Maverick Conservative MP Garth Turner is once again playing the thorn in his government’s side, publicly calling on Prime Minister Stephen Harper to scrap part of the Tory election platform that he says is proving unpopular.
The House hasn’t even sat yet and Turner’s trying to publicly change strategy and policy.
Whatever happened to doing what you promised. Atleast that is what the Conservatives are saying!
Turner returned to politics with his election as a Conservative MP for Halton in the general election in 2006. He is viewed as one of the few newly elected RED TORIES in Ontario for the Conservative Party.
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Garth_Turner
Today, however, Red Tories are often simply characterized as the left wing faction of the contemporary Conservative party, or a Conservative committed to the welfare state and/or liberal social policy. They are usually seen as moderates within the Canadian political spectrum.
Well on 2nd thought I am sure getting your hat to fit is beyond me, so charge on.
————————————————–
Well you charged on!
Garth, sometimes it is said that man cannot be trusted with the government of himself. Can he, then, be trusted with the government of others?
The Culture of Secrecy in Ottawa continues, I guess. The more they crack the whip the more you speak out!!!
Garth
Good on ya and keep going man. This is going to change the conservative party and it is going to change how people expect there MP’s to act. Watch the CPC continue to drop in the polls.
Well I may not agree with all of your politics, but I do appreciate how you handle your politics.
You are candid and forthright, and fully involve your constituents – all of them, not just the ones who voted on a party basis.
Your blog and video contributions invite honest and open discussions on issues without the strictness of ideologues set forth by the party.
You definately are someone who has set out to advance the common good. Something the liberal party has lost touch with, something the new conservative party lost with your departure, and something the ND and Greens don’t have enough seats for.
Keep up the great work. Stay true. Use your new seat wisely.
Cheers,
Anyone who asks difficult questions of their own party, all the while being told to shut up, is someone I want in Ottawa. Keep your chin up Garth. I don’t vote blue, but I’m pulling for you.
Boy, you Canadiens sure know how to throw Political Ruckus, don’t ya?
Hee, hee. ;-D
Seriously….
Good Luck to you, and keep stirring the pot, and stimulating minds, with your Blogging.
Good luck Garth!
Garth, believe me, I respect your desire to rep your constituents. It’s what we westerners fought for when we founded the Reform Party, the Canadian Alliance and eventually, the new Conservative Party. And yet, it’s precisely this kind of ill-timed, ill-advised kind of “maverick-ism” that kept us in the political wilderness for so long. How can Canadians support a party, its leader and its policies, when one of its own MPs disagree so strongly and so publicly? If you have a problem with any of the aforementioned, Garth, work it out or resign. Canadians are standing in judgment of us, now, more than ever before, and we’ve all got to be on the same page if we’re going to have any hope of forming a majority government the next time and continuing our good work for all Canadians. Work it out, Garth. Please.
Though you may be astounded and shocked at the news, you really shouldn’t be. If I so much as insinuated disrespect toward my team (employer, co-workers, etc.) publically via a blog then I would be reprimanded. As an ordinary average white collar middle class white-boy, even I know some very simple truths. Even from my elementary knowledge: what is said in caucus stays in caucus; you are doing the business of the Government. Any leaks real or perceived are serious, and when the government has massaged policy to the point of public acceptance then stand on the front line to display it. Real simple. As well, if I posted comments about telling my boss his latest scoop from the competition was stupid, and broadcasted it on my blog what does that tell my co-workers (your Emerson comments)? Raise your concerns, share your opinion, but I wouldn’t be so tongue in cheek about it. Ask opinions, put your constituents first but blog format might not be the best vehicle (in my humble opinion). I don’t think people are checking out your blog to “support you.” The reason why I came was to see how naive you really were in posting sensitive / negative information in Blog format. I’m disappointed to say the least. I’m sure many other average Canadians are as well. Take my comments as you will, I doubt your behaviour will change. But I can share with you I have yet to be kicked out of a caucus! Maybe my wisdom works?
http://www.stephentaylor.ca/archives/000696.html
Stephen writes me: “I have included clarification to your concern. Please know that I
never said that you had edited recently to cover-up and that I didn’t
mean to imply that to anyone. My intent was not to scandalize any
cover-up of any sort.
My only concern was to demonstrate the the content in hand was
evidence of a breach of caucus confidentiality. I have provided the
extra context that you responded about a day later to change the post.
My concern wasn’t that you altered your words… just that you had
originally written them.
I had not considered the possible misinterpretation and I suppose when
one is on the ugly side of an event, one tends to read into things in
the most negative way (in a way that I did not consider). Again, I
have posted clarification. ”
– Garth
whoops a daisy , hey Garth?
Stephen writes me: “I have included clarification to your concern. Please know that I
never said that you had edited recently to cover-up and that I didn’t
mean to imply that to anyone. My intent was not to scandalize any
cover-up of any sort.
My only concern was to demonstrate the the content in hand was
evidence of a breach of caucus confidentiality. I have provided the
extra context that you responded about a day later to change the post.
My concern wasn’t that you altered your words… just that you had
originally written them.
I had not considered the possible misinterpretation and I suppose when
one is on the ugly side of an event, one tends to read into things in
the most negative way (in a way that I did not consider). Again, I
have posted clarification. ”
– Garth
Carry on, Garth! Keep up the good work you do!
Once again, we need more politicians that speak for the people first because no political party is perfect (even if it the “new” government).
PEOPLE FIRST, POLITICS SECOND. You got it right, Garth. Keep up the good work and speak with your constituents, as you always do.
The people are always right, and I wish the critics of what you did would get that right. There is nothing wrong for having the guts to stand up for what one believes right and is elected to say… except under the current PC Party.
What a mistake for the PC Party. Now go and enjoy your true freedom to represent the people.
Thank you for not standing up to the BULL of the Harper goverment. Someone has to take a stand and be counted for what they believe. I am so sick and tired of hearing that an MP ARE not allowed to answer any questions. Who are they working for???? Me or Harper. Is it not my $$$$ that pay these guys their wages??? I want to know what my goverment is doing. I want to be able to undertand the decisions my goverment is making, not that they have been made, and I have to just live with it. Thats not good enought. I hope he loses his shirt in the next elections he calls, and I was always a TORY!!! So what now. I’ll vote for any GOOD independent who is willing to be up front and tell us like it is. NO MORE PUSSY FOOTING AROUND. Calling other parties kindergarden names, and making slanders comments, becasue they were made to you. Grow UP MR. HARPER.
Well, Garth, I sure don’t know what happened but I have seen dogs treated better than you were today. And by your supposed ‘colleagues’ in the party. If there was no vote at the national caucus how the hell do they get off?? And who was giving the orders to have you moved and your computer unplugged if PM Harper and the PMO didn’t know about it?
What the hell….
God Bless and keep you and your family. I am sure this cannot have been an easy day for any of you. I am waiting to hear what Esther has to report further when she says ” You don’t know the half of it”
Rest as best you can and I look forward to more reports here as this thing moves along. This is a disgraceful way to treat an MP is all I can say… reminds me of the way the Conservatives treated Chuck Cadman … he had to run as an independent because somebody came in there and took the riding away from him… this sounds like the same kind of skulduggery going on… who… what ..where…when and WHY??
I know exactly what you are going through. My blog cost me my job. Unfortunately for me, the result was more substantial than being moved to the other side of the floor. I wrote on my blog that the university that I went to was a customer of the company that I worked for. I was proud of that and it was common knowledge to anyone who lived in Prince George, British Columbia.
But these things happen and now I am better off than I was when I worked there. I hope for your sake you can use this to your advantage and people support your re-election campaign the next time an election rolls around.
Good luck in all of your endeavours.
Signed,
Allan “We’re in the same boat” Stroet.
All the johnny come lately current lieberals, NDP, commi…….Greens looking at this site now, beside supporting garth they seem to want to point to Alberta as the boogieman.
I think Garth and all of us posters from Ontario need to remember this is Canada.
Yep, it’s Canada, and THIS Albertan can’t stand the Conservatives and will be thrilled when their brief tenure in government expires.
Well, Stephen Taylor proved you’re a liar, didn’t he?
stephentaylor.ca/archives/000696.html
Stephen writes me: “I have included clarification to your concern. Please know that I
never said that you had edited recently to cover-up and that I didn’t
mean to imply that to anyone. My intent was not to scandalize any
cover-up of any sort.
My only concern was to demonstrate the the content in hand was
evidence of a breach of caucus confidentiality. I have provided the
extra context that you responded about a day later to change the post.
My concern wasn’t that you altered your words… just that you had
originally written them.
I had not considered the possible misinterpretation and I suppose when
one is on the ugly side of an event, one tends to read into things in
the most negative way (in a way that I did not consider). Again, I
have posted clarification. ”
– Garth
Good on you, mate as the Australians might say. I highly respect a man who puts his beliefs before the easy way out. You could have been just another backbench MP who stands or sits during votes as directed by the higher powers, but instead you choose to do what the job of a political representative is. Fundamentally, you speak up for your constituents and you do so with honesty and integrity. All Canadians have in you a “value added” MP, as you are helping to renew democracy by exploring and discussing new ideas, wherever their origins might be. And take heart – I think the Conservative party is still trying to find its sould and its way. You just found yours first.
From Stephen Taylor’s blog, interesting:
I took the Garth challenge: Example of caucus breach.
In his news conference today, Garth Turner challenged members of the media to find record of him breaching caucus confidentiality. Garth explained that his blog contains record of what he has said.
I have found a section which has been altered.
http://www.stephentaylor.ca/
Stephen writes me: “I have included clarification to your concern. Please know that I
never said that you had edited recently to cover-up and that I didn’t
mean to imply that to anyone. My intent was not to scandalize any
cover-up of any sort.
My only concern was to demonstrate the the content in hand was
evidence of a breach of caucus confidentiality. I have provided the
extra context that you responded about a day later to change the post.
My concern wasn’t that you altered your words… just that you had
originally written them.
I had not considered the possible misinterpretation and I suppose when
one is on the ugly side of an event, one tends to read into things in
the most negative way (in a way that I did not consider). Again, I
have posted clarification. ”
– Garth
This is most excellent! Stick it to that stupid red-neck sheep herder Harper and his quest to be a Bushonian. Garth: 1 Harper: 0 Garth for PM!
Garth – Out of curiosity I read some of your blogs posted in the last month for instances of you “breaking Caucus confidentiality”. So far I’ve found none so it strikes me it was simply a ruse to get rid of you – the real reason being your outspoken opinions. Funny, but I thought that was the whole purpose of a blog – to vent your opinions and provide a forum for people to respond. Too bad that some members of the Conservative Party want to put a blanket over free speech – I suppose they’d be happier if your blog site was simply a repository of government-approved press releases. Now at least you can speak your mind without party restraints. Keep up your good work!
Hi Garth: I just read the news in The Star and, once again, you stated that you work for the voters. You know, when somebody repeatedly tells me something about him or herself, I begin to wonder if there is not an attempt to manage my perception. I have always followed a simple rule – I base my own perception/impression on the other person’s actions over the long term and not on what he or she tells me.
You may truly work for your constituents but you also shoot off your mouth uncontrollably. The latter is not working for your constituents – you can do that without shooting off your mouth and spouting negativity to the press about your team and its leader. This behaviour is your own self-promotion and nothing else. Working for your constituents means that you work diligently on some specific issues and to convince, through logic and well-prepared material, your colleagues. You are very bright when it comes to finances but, unfortunately, you muddy the whole picture with your shit-distrubing public statements.
I have to agree with many of the people who submitted comments – it is for your ego that you behave in that particular way. My own MP gets results for us but you never hear him publicly criticizing the party of the PM.
My mother is one of your constituents and her life has not changed on iota since you were elected. So, what have you done, exactly, for your constituents? I don’t ask this sarcastically, I am asking because I have seen no change in the life of my mother nor in her neighbourhood as a result of your election as MP.
There are ways of getting your point across but behaving like a petulant teenager is not one of them. I’m sorry to see you go because I admire your conviction. I do not, however, admire your behaviour. You can keep the same objectives but go about it in a more mature, professional and decorous manner.
You will get your brief time in the spotlight.
Harper’s opponents will use that spotlight to try to benefit their agendas, and so you’ll be brief “friends”,
No doubt you’ll be sought out for your opinion (attack) when the environmental plan comes out.
Then the country will move onto other issues,
and then you’ll recede into history as that guy who was kicked out of the party.
You won’t be re-elected. Because your former constituents don’t belong to some perverted Garth cult, but want real representation (and certainly not representation by some one issue fring party – Greens)
You made your bed….nighty night.
Thats what happens if you question the right.
Do as we say and don’t ask questions plus don’t tell anyone what we just said.
The Greens are at 9% without a seat, we need strong people to stand up to the right. The people that vote are whats suppose to count but for years now its been the hell with the voter and taxpayer, the missuse our votes and rob us blind.
We, Canadians need a new voice in Ottawa and the Green Party should be it.Help us make it a party of the people and for the people.
Leave the backroom deals behind with the Liberal, Conservitive and NDP parties.
Wake up conservatives! There is a new era of public representation.
As a teacher of Canadian civics, I must say that Mr. Turner raised a very valid point regarding the role of representation in government. Do MPs represent their parties, and vote along the party lines, and toe those lines, or do they represent their ridings, and vote according to the needs and wishes of their constituents? And how much should their personal feelings account for their decision making?
Mr. Turner has stated his opinion on matters important to Canadians. As a result of this, and as a result of his party’s totalitarian-nature, he has been evicted from the Conservative party. Though I am not a member of his riding, I believe I would be proud to be so because Mr. Turner appears to be a man who would think carefully over decisions and who would represent me, instead of toeing the party-line, blindly doing what he is told, at all times.
Mr. Turner’s insistence on speaking with his constituency before making further decisions demonstrates a sensitivity which was very blatantly not shown by Belinda Stronach or David Emerson.
I think Mr. Turner should discuss the situation with those he represents and see where they want him to be.
Let’s just hope that’s not back with the party that punishes free-thinkers and attempts to gag the media.
I hope Mr. Turner can continue to be free to represent his people and himself to the best of his ability.
Honour is due to you Mr. Turner for having the gonads and determination to refuse to behave like a trained seal, as so many of your former caucus colleagues were willing to do in order to curry the benevolence
of The Unenlightened Despot leading your former party.
Thank you for having the courage to speak up regarding global climate change, and other issues of great import to your constituents and all Canadians.
Would that my MP, Richard Harris, were likewise able and willing to break free of the Party Line and seemingly perpetual gag order against ” going off message ” that is so prevalent in all levels of politics these days.
When elected representatives behave in this manner, i.e. mindless chanting of a Mantra imposed from PMO, the only entity to benefit is the ruling party, not the electorate or the country. In this grotesque evolution of Democracy, Government is reduced to a
Star Chamber, run by the inner circle surrounding Mr. Harper – not the elected
representatives of the people.
Again Mr. Turner, this grateful Canadian thanks you for your integrity, courage and determination in speaking your mind.. attributes that should be expected of, all MPs.
- John Pickford, BC
Well I have to say that if garth turner is to be tossed from the cabinet for being a red tory what about peter mac kay? Peter is one of the biggest red tories in the maritimes coming from his fathers rein in the mulroney years. They put him in charge of foreign affairs to keep him out of the country and out of the western tories hair. Foreign Affairs???
his previous experience in that area are limited to being a lawyer for Airbus industries and Belbimbo Stomachache. The only conservative bone in her body during her stay in the conservative party was Peter Mac Kays and that was barely consevative.
If common sense is an asset that makes the conservative electable then the stephen harper tories just gave away the fort knox of common sense with your ouster. You views might not be what the harper tories want but Dawson college certainly showed compassion on your part and the boneheaded thoughts of a gun mad government lead by hats and horses
Paul
Hi,
I absolutely love your writing style! I work as a news monitor (get paid to listen to the news) and heard you were thrown out of caucus BECAUSE of your blog…that is SO ridiculous!
Regardless, I think you are an awesome writer!
I am a writer myself and am currently working on a sitcom proposed for ABC (with a guy who works at ABC studios on Ted Danson’s new sitcom).
Ironically I had never heard of your blog until the House of Commons made it news lol and now I’m glad I’ve discovered it.
Personally I think you rock! If you ever decide to change your political plans (of your own volition) and decide to capitalize on your writing talent, there is an empty chair at my writing table.
Your new fan,
Elizabeth in Nova Scotia
Garth-
Proof or no proof you are not a team player. Liberals realized (because of their largely Catholic base) that the collective is more important when it comes to holding power than the individual and his little ego and all… Conservatives, by nature if not religion necessarily are philosophical Protestants…individual trumps the group. You wouldn’t play ball, and thereby show that the Tories are capable of retaining power into the next government.. you had to be a plucky thorn, and stroke that outsized ego, that belief system…now you’re gone. GOod luck with that.
One thing about the tone of the overwhelming majority of these comments is very striking: the feeling that Garth was turfed for putting citizens ahead of his party rulers.
It would seem that Manning’s dream of such a parliament is not dead after all!
So, you party brass! You may have decided amongst your selves what values to keep or discard with your new merged party but it would seem that a HUGE number of voters did not blindly accept your choices.
It was “being a disenfranchised conservative” that drove so many away from the Tory party when Reform first appeared. The idea of merging the Alliance and the tattered Tory remmnant was to KEEP as many supporters as possible, NOT restrict their choices at the ballot box!
WE WANT MPs TO REPRESENT US FIRST AND THE PARTY SECOND! OUR NUMBERS ARE SIGNIFICANT! DEAL WITH IT!
As a sidebar, I wonder if the national caucus had been asked to vote on Garth’s ouster whether Chuck Strahl would have voted for it…
Gee, and I thought that my week was exciting! Good on ya Garth. My applause and support is yours. Wish you were my MP.
From a former Ontarian, living and breathing fresher air in BC.
You sure you’re a CPCer anyway? You don’t seem to have the “Ready, Shoot, Aim” mentality that typifies the caucus … Good luck Garth – keep up the battle!
Rob in Thunder Bay
PAUL – Oh my god, please don’t call Peter MacKay a red Tory. I think Peter is just an opportunist – he knew no one would want him if he didn’t go for the CRAP alliance.
Most people in his riding don’t even like him, but they are such staunch Conservatives that they hold their nose when they vote. Remember, Conservative in this neck of the woods is slightly different than it is out west.
Mr. Turner:
It is refreshing to hear a M.P. finally state that they work for the people first, then their party. I truly believe that your party and leader have made a mistake that they will regret forever. Randy Turner
Go Green, Garth. Go Green.
I find it interesting that Harper is obviously a liar when he claims he had no knowledge about what happened to you.
That guy lies like a Liberal.
Its too bad that Conservatives don’t care if their leaders lie to them. Seriously you Conservative supporters should look to your leadership for something other than marching orders.
It’s hard to be Joan of Arc, especially against the status quo. Look what happened to her. You were supposed to play follow the Leader. Oh, I forgot, he wasn’t there.The boys had there own backroom party, Tax payer beer included on the house,pun intended. When you were elected to the faternity,didn’t you know you were supposed to keep the issues secret from the public. Imagine,a Government where you can voice your opinion, without getting burned to the stake. Sorry Garth, but thanks for trying, and Maverick,now that was a good television show.
I have posted the following on my blog and it should be posted here for addition context to Garth’s response to any comment here that has cited my post.
Also, do check my blog for updates.
http://www.stephentaylor.ca/archives/000696.html
The “standing up against my (now former) party” routine really only works when they’re doing something that harms the people of your riding.
Otherwise, you’re just being a pompous blowhard whos looking for attention.
Unbeleivable! Why are Conservatives behaving like Liberals? Are people not fed up with the Chretian era of “toeing the line”. Rember Nunziata kept getting re-elected as an independant in his riding. An independant in a minority government can weild enormous power. We should have more independants sitting in parliament for the good of Canada.
Garth hers your post- another point off the GST
- a drop in the income tax rate for the lowest bracket
- the promised rollover in capital gains taxes for reinvested profits (look for a complicated new investment account to be created – Bay Street will love it)
- provisions for social benefits not be clawed back for lower-income workers
- a lower growth forecast for the economy
- an agricultural action plan, bringing in new income-support for farmers
- more middle-class tax credits aimed at family expense”" I think this is what they fired you for!
Hey Garth,
There’s a lot of speculation that you might go “green”. I won’t pitch you because it’s a lot easier for a voter to try out a new party than a politician. When I joined the Green Party my Liberal and NDP friends were furious. They insisted the Green Party was really just the old Progressive Conservatives with a Green agenda. I was told the greens were right-wing. What I found was there are former NDP, Liberals, PCers, Reformers and everything in-between, outside and around. And it’s not always easy for all of us to exist together and get along but the one thing I just love about the Green Party is the fact that a bunch of people who would other wise hate each other and shout political slogans at each other are all sitting at a table together talking. Or arguing as the case may be. We’re not worrying about how we can beat the other team in an election by writing snappy slogans, 5 point plans or creating an artifical united front. We’re talking about issues and trying to come up with new ideas for making our system of government work again for the people not just for the politicians. As a voter I know I’ll never find a political party that embodies everything I believe in and hold dear in every aspect of my life but I want to be involved in a party that encourages dialogue and debate and new ideas. That brings people together on a common ground so we can work together in a democratic way. And I think that’s the Canadian way, or at least it used to be.
Does it cut both ways? If one of the executive in the riding dared say Garth was wrong, how long with the free spirit and independence line get towed? Just wondering when and where autonomy serves something other than self.
Garth – The Star ran a story about the Green Party awaiting you. I assume that you will absolutely NOT cross the floor and will remain an independent until the next election.
Considering how you railed against your former party over Emerson, I can only assume that you would never consider crossing the floor unless you were elected as a member of that party. Am I correct in this assumption? Or will you be crossing the floor?
Watching with great disgust as our representative was ousted.
What can I say Garth but:
GO FOR THE GREEN
Will be watching…GOOD LUCK!
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Hi Garth,
If I had been acting towards my employer like you did towords your party, I would have been fired a long time ago.
Some people newer see their own problems, they just blame everyone else for them.
I always think that if you have a problem with more than a few people, maybe you are the problem and not them.
You blame a group of christians for at least a part your mishap and some time ago I heard you saying to Charles Adler that christians are intolorant, do you tolorate them?
Why do you join the conservatives when you desagree with their views?
Garth, if you keep acting they way you have been, you will always have problems no matter what party or business you join. But, there is always a chance to change and turn around.
I will pray for you and wish you all the best.
David
Garth, life in a minority government is based on voter alienation paranoia. There’s nothing that will ever change that; unfortunately, speaking on one’s principles often takes a back seat with many in this situation . . . luckily not the case with you . . . keep up keeping real!
John from Puslinch
“He was available to comment on my demise, calling it a “great day.†He also mentioned on CBC that he has a Conservative candidate picked out for my riding.”
Hello:
I am non-partisan, not a member of any political party and don’t intend to be. As well, I am not knowledgeable on the selection process political parties use to select candidates to represent their views in the various ridings. However, I did make an assumption there is a democratic method of some sort rather that individuals making a pronouncement “they†have picked a candidate when a spot has suddenly become vacant.
If the stats are to be believed only 5% of Canadians read blogs.
Obviously that 5% is a thorn in Mr. Harper’s sheep’s sides, (his caucus) since Mr. Turner is the only blogging MP.
With the PCP slipping in the polls, getting rid of the blog will bring that 5% over to the conservative’s point of view?
I think not. Mr. Harper’s denial that he knew Mr. Turner was going to be turfed just doesn’t ring true. Clearly he is lying.
How dumb does our PM and his party of sheep he think the average Canadian is?
Sherm
North Bay, ON
Hoist in your own petard I’d say. Looks good on you and smells better.
Hi:
Now it is up to the voters of Halton to demonstrate to the Powers to be that enough is enough and to send you back to parliament again as there MP under whatever political stripe you choose to run. If the voters of Halton do this they will set an example that will get taken seriously, and will eventually put and end to voters being backhanded.
One thing is certain, if us voters want to be heard and represented we need MP’s of your kind to represent us. I just hope the Voters of Halton will denmonstrate this when they vote in the next election and reelect you as their MP.
Harrison
In response to:
“How can Canadians support a party, its leader and its policies, when one of its own MPs disagree so strongly and so publicly? If you have a problem with any of the aforementioned, Garth, work it out or resign.”
Indeed, there is the problem with the party system. We vote for someone we trust to represent us as constituents – only to have that person muzzled and told to hold the “party line”.
The Tory party has it pretty good while the official opposition is without a leader. Who will ask the tough questions? Good for you Garth!If the Tory party is so embarrassed, perhaps they should amend their agenda so that it doesn’t need to be kept secret from the people who elected them!
I sent Patrick Brown aka Puppet Boy, MP for Barrie an email yesterday asking him to explain what the Ontario caucus and CPC party where thinking. I look forward to his answer once the Puppet Master Jay Hill tells him what to write after all I’m sure he tells young Patrick how to vote all the time.
Maybe I’ll share his reponse.
I must say I was a surprised and upset by the actions taken by the CPC against you. In my view, an open debate always leads to a better decision. It’s unilateral, undemocratic actions like this that keep me scared of your former party and make me wonder if they are fit to lead. After all, a leader/party that cannot handle a little dissent are not fit to lead. I hope the CPC uses the negative reaction to their move as a an opportunity to learn that Canadians won’t tolerate the “shut up, we know what’s best approach to government”.
PS: I am impressed with the job you are doing on your site to make politics and government more accessible to youth and average Canadians. Keep up the good work!
It seems clear to me that when in politics as in many things in llife that playing by the team approach works.
Playing the rebel with a cause may be cute for some but rebellion in the team rarely garners anyone accolades as you have found out.
fI have written to most Ontario Conservative caucus members and suggested that at their next meeting the topic of discussion should be:
“How Can We Be More Like Garth Turner”?
I also asked each of them who they got the phone call from instructing them to vote against Garth: Finley or McVety??
Canada : un député écarté du parti conservateur à cause de son blog ?
Garth Turner, député conservateur, pas toujours en phase avec les positions de son parti, vient d’en être viré. Il lui serait reproché d’avoir, sur son blog, critiqué le premier ministre canadien, lui aussi conservateur. Aujourd’hui, sur son …
Garth, I heard you on CBC’s Metro Morning this morning, and as a Green Party member and former candidate, I’d really like to see you consider sitting as a Green in Parliament. You would have the backing of a very strong and committed party, and interestingly, probably give a voice to Elizabeth May at the leadership debates during the next election, as I believe only parties with sitting members get to particpate in that debate.
Do consider it.
Applause and congradulations on perserving the right and the duty of free speech and independent thought that this country both needs and requires more of. as a wise person once said “You either stand for something or fall for everything”. Today you stand ten feet tall and this country is better for it.
Hi Garth,
I couldn’t pick you out of a lineup at this time yesterday, but after reading up on you and this situation you’ve got another supporter. It’s disapointing, if not surprising, that the Conservative caucus thinks that the crushing of dissent will work. Of a blogger, no less!
What idiots.
Yours truly,
Michael Clay
Montreal
Hi Garth,
I couldn’t pick you out of a lineup at this time yesterday, but after reading up on you and this situation you’ve got another supporter. It’s disapointing, if not surprising, that the Conservative caucus thinks that the crushing of dissent will work. Of a blogger, no less!
What idiots.
Yours truly,
Michael Clay
Montreal
More on Bargov.net
75% of respondents on a CTV poll felt you got what you deserved……that is more accurate than your blog which has been a voice for the dippers and grits since day one…….
[...] inherently sqashes dictatorial leadership. We are worse off with this guy at home. PS: Check out the comments in yesterdays post. Gosh I’m glad I don’ [...]
Keep on Garth.. Stand up for what you believe.. I am sick of political parties “buttonholing ” policy to a strict and unchangeable “party” line.Take a look around you Harper – the climate IS CHANGING!!!!!!!politically and environmentally… WAKE UP!!! Garth you have already smelled the coffee-environmentally grown and fair trade of course… – keep up the good work .. Maybe the Rhino Party can arise from the Ashes and kick some Conservative (read head in the sand) butt!!!! Peace
I was not happy with any seats the conservatives gained in the last election and worked hard in my riding to keep our present MP. I can certainly say though, Garth, that as a neighbour of your riding, I read about you all the time in our local paper and am very impressed with you.
Gagging MP’s from being able to talk freely as is being done in the Conservative party shows total lack of respect for ALL of us who vote. We are the taxpayers, we matter!
Your Town Hall meetings, your blog and what I read in our local paper have all impressed me immensely. Keep up the great work and remember there are many who support you whether in your riding or not.
I believe that this is just another example of the non-transparency and lack of freedom of speech that the Stephen Harper Government has created and it will all backfire on him.
I hope your constituents will see how hard you have been working for them and how ridiculous this whole scenerio has been.
It was very apparent to me that the Conservatives wanted you out when it was in the paper about someone challenging you-that never came to pass.
I believe the majority of Canadians want an MP who is in tune with them, who listens to them and does toe the line on every issue. You have shown them that!
The free vote coming up regarding the same sex marriage obviously was an issue as well. We already have this in place and this government wants to bring us backwards. Taking the word “equality” out of what women have worked so hard to achieve and still are, this is what the Conservatives represent to me. A piddly $100.00 to parents with children under 6 which is taxable instead of a daycare plan that took so long to establish…..I could go on but I have to go to work, I am just an low income mom making my way in this world.
Interesting interview on CHQR last night… I think Stephen Taylor has a very valid point. Looks like he posted the whole interview as well — check it out:
http://www.stephentaylor.ca/archives/000696.html
Hey… at least now I can support Garth without supporting Harper. Where do I sign?
Personally I agreed with some of his views and dissagreed with some others (SSM and Environment being the main ones). Also, as the time passed, he was claiming to represent the voters but I would guess his numbers came from partisan gathering of his own supporters.
Garth is a straight talking guy who speaks his mind, I admire him for that as I am the same. However, there is no place in politics for either him or me as politics ais also about compromise ad long term vision and knowing how to advance your agenda within the party first.
While Garth possible edged out the liberal in the last election because he was Garth, he got the bulk of the votes because he was a conservative. I, for one, voted for a conservative and will vote for a conservative in the next election, being it Garth or someone else.
I believe Garth thought he could raise above the group he was in, thought he was better and though he would serve his constituents better by being a thorn rather han a team player. Well, with that actually he made a disservice to his constituents and voters.
You sure lost my vote Garth, but more importantly, your actions risk bringing the Liberals back in power faster than they could.
Hey Garth,
I understand your intentions were good but man you act sometimes like a Geraldo Rivera of the North. Unlike Geraldo you chose not to show more discretion when writing about issues that would obviously upset your party. Anyways you can behave like a newspaper columnist all you like.
For those not familiar with Geraldo see the wikipedia entry and the war coverage controversy:
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Geraldo_Rivera
Congratulations! And keep up the good work in representing your riding. If I lived there, I would certainly vote for you.
Garth, you and I may be poles apart ideologically, but when it comes to democracy we are on the same page. Democracy only works when openness and transparency are part of the process. I thank you for your openness and transparency – you more than anyone in your former party truly understand democracy. I wish you all the best and keep kicking against the pricks.
You are a great Canadian!
I’ve worked with Garth and continue to be impressed with him. It’s great to see him use alternatives to mainstream media to get his message out.
Keep at it!
It seems that Stephen Hapers Conservatives are like that clique in school. They have there own agenda and don’t give a damn about the rest of the students. Become a liberal, you would be better than Mikey I, or the rest trying to get the leadership. I appreciate your principles.
Derek Butler – good question. I wish I had thought of it. What of it, Garth? If one of your people publicly criticized you constantly, would you continue to keep him or her on staff? Would you support that person?
Derek – great question. After all, this is a democracy and we have free speech which must be defended and exercised at any cost.
Over to you, Garth. Do you have any dissenters in your office? Would you really keep such a person in your employ? Can you give examples of your tolerance level? Somehow, I don’t think so.
As another responder said – if everybody else is wrong and you are the only one who is right – perhaps it is you who is wrong. And do you always blame others for your downfalls? Yes, you do. Perhaps you really should look at yourself, Garth. I really hate to see somebody with intelligence and honourable intentions be defeated as a result of his own ego. Change is good, Garth – be willing to go with it. It may just work wonders for you.
I just tore up the donation cheque that I was going to send to the Conservative Party. Someone else will get my money now.
Garth, don’t change a bit…yesterday’s actions speak volume on the people who are left in the Conservative caucus and it ain’t pretty…keep the steady course and I’m sure you’ll have a great support among the middle class in the Halton region if you decide to run as an Independent…Cheers!
Pawel
Good move Garth!! I’m not a member of any political party but I consider myself to be a fiscal conservative and a social liberal. The Stephen Harper Party is starting to show more of the extremism that many of us knew was there all along. More high profile people such as yourself have to stand up and call them on it.
Blind obedience is the cornerstone of fascism.
Keep questioning.
Keep challenging.
Has anyone ever told you that you look like James Lipton?
You say you don’t change your blog postings, however when challenged on Rob Breakenridge’s show on CHQR last night. Rob asks “Have you changed anything”. Garth responds “No. Everything’s the way I wrote it”. But then when he challenged you with the fact that one of you posting has been changed as documented on http://www.stephentaylor.ca you didn’t dispute that you changed it, except you called it editing it. It just so happens that you edited out the part that may have be seen to breach cacus confidentiality. What version of your own words is true.
Actually, check Stephen’s site again. I let him know this post was changed back in May after being up for a day when the Conservative Whip asked me to make an edit. Always trying to be a team player (ironic, eh?), I was happy to do so – which is why two versions ended up existing digitally. — Garth
Who’s going to align with you now? I understand your greater good, but being issue oriented also means working with the party for results. Now you’re in a position with no power. You’re banter (although in the right place) is no longer a concern for the Conservatives. You will become white noise. Talk and action need to go hand in hand. Although the system does “suck” and “blow”, I don’t think you’re doing this for the greater good. I think you like the bright lights and the publicity (whether its good or bad).
Regards on your blog. I agree with you. It is the future of politics, but you should use it for listening and not for spouting off about the government to which you belong.
Good luck in all your endeavors. You seem like a good man…a good man that needs a whack in the head by his disapproving wife.
All Garth…all the time!!!
You must be in your glory. Enjoy the adulation while it lasts. Don’t stop to consider where it comes from…people that hated you before yesterday will be leading the way…
All I can say is I’m ashamed I voted for you Mr. Turner.
You have said that your real boss is the people in your constituency. These are the words of someone who is philosophically an independent. At the same time you have said that Canada does not have a tradition of support for parliamentarians not aligned with a party. I think this may be the time to stand up and say that all members should be independent and begin to make party politics a thing of the past.
For those who keep vilifying Alberta, it might interest you to know that Alberta now accounts for 50% of Canada’s exports and 30% of Canada’s GDP. The majority of our Olympic medallists in the last Olympics were from Alberta. At present, Alberta has become the major economic force driving the Canadian economy financing through its vast transfer payments social programs throughout Canada.
For years, western Canadians have been shut out of any voice in Ottawa because the Liberals had very few seats in Western Canada. Roy McMurtry used to be known as the “lone liberal on the prairieâ€. The resulting inequities are impossible to ignore but as long as Ontario & Quebec get to run things, Canadians don’t really seem to care.
The National Citizens Coalition wrote that the riding of Shawinigan received more federal money that Alberta, Saskatchewan and Manitoba combined. My neighbour told me that he saw doctors filling sandbags when Manitoba experienced the worst flooding in its history yet the federal government took weeks and weeks to bother offering any assistance. By contrast when the Saginay was flooded, federal help was instantaneous. How would you feel when a winner is declared in a federal election before they have even begun to get electoral results in from British Columbia. Does your vote mean nothing?
You don’t have to be a western Canadian to recognize that democracy is not just about Ontario & Quebec getting to run things and western Canadians having the pleasure of paying for the bill. So many have written in support of Garth’s freedom of speech yet suggest the “horse†members should shut up and sit down.
Then, we have the Alberta conspiracy theorists. Just what part of this ugly bigotry looks like an open democracy? Don’t even get me started on the anti-American garbage. Charles Krauthammer once said that 3/4 of Canadian nationalism was nothing more than anti-Americanism.
Perhaps, the most valuable thing that Garth has given us is a place to talk to Canadians across our country from all political philosophies, cultures and demographics. Garth has championed tolerance as an important value in a democratic society.
The question is whether we have learned anything from Garth. We have all read his blogs but have they really changed the way we think? Perhaps, this website says more about us than we care to admit.
It’s like the old saying goes “Empty cans make the most noise.”
Boy, that’s profound! — Garth
Interesting to see the partisan comments in reference to your dismisal by those who stole the consertive name without, oh my God! (or Goddess, what the heck), Stephen Harper knowing. If you had been warned as much as a month ago, its incredulous to me that such an act would be a surprise to him. He is emulating the new Emperor to the south in being conveniently oblivious, I’m glad he’s found such a popular role model.
A dangerous man is one who speaks his mind, and sticks by his principles, and I commend you on sticking to your guns, if the opportunity had presented itself, you would have been the first “Conservative” I would have voted for.
Speaking of voting, I have checked off the Greens for the last few elections, being amazingly disgusted with the other parties. It would certainly be a coup for the Greens if you did join them, and may finally force the powers that be to allow the fearsome Elizabeth May to participate in future leaderships debates. This would bring a true oposing voice to counter the diatribe of the shills of unions, large corporations, power brokers and lobyists, and may actually bring a desperatly needed advocate to the rest of us.
Garth,
I hope you aren’t the last breath of the PC in our minority government. Harper made a bad move turfing you, one of the few voices of reason. It is a tough job being a conservative in this country. I think there is a genuine desire for small-c conservatives like you.
If a decapitated Liberal party without a head can be tied with the Alliance…I mean Conservative party, I’m sure the Harper government should start unscrewing the light bulbs and collecting pens from the office because they don’t have long. Canadians don’t appreciate a government that rules with an iron fist, especially when it is routing out people in sync with the Canadian public.
As for your candid nature, I wouldn’t expect anything less from an MP. Comments equating the caucus to a corporate enterprise and the view that you were selling secrets to the public are bogus and frankly disturbing. We live in a democracy and as far as I’m concerned there shouldn’t be anything that goes behind closed doors. CPAC should be in the caucus meetings, so Canadians can see what kind of debates our government is actually engaged in. We pay for you guys to sit around and talk, so why aren’t we privy to what you are saying? Steve’s hypocrisy is repugnant.
You are a good man Garth and it is sad to say that I don’t think you have a political home. You can’t go Lib, can’t go NDP, maybe the Green party? I suggest you sit as the one and only member of the old PC party. Bring it back! Let the freaks who are “right” off the map have their Alliance back.
It is either that or all the small-c’s are going to be voting Liberal. Harper isn’t giving us what we hoped for.
Solidarity!
I am disappointed in your not being able to manage your own ability to work in a team. I voted for you, I like most of your thinking, but I think that by getting yourself kicked out you seriously compromised your ability to DO much of anything in parliament.
I am getting a bit tired of your “putting voters first” line. I appreciate the concept, but “the lady doth protest too much, methinks”. Where most of us work, getting stuff done means working within teams that you don’t see eye to eye with everything on. If I had known my vote would go to a lame-duck independant – even one with views I mostly agree with, I would probably not have voted (since I could bring myself to vote for the other options).
Being outspoken in a way that accomplishes little is not serving your contituency very effectively, even if it gets lots of happy emails from those who do not like the current government.
While I may not agree with your politics, I believe that you really believe in what you do, and are doing it for the betterment of Canada. However, this is what happens when your part of a party who from week one said that no one but the PMs office is to communicate with the outside world. How that squares with the typical conservative line of “greater accountabitily,” I’ll never understand …
It’s unfortunate that in this day and age where communication is so quickly facilitated through mediums like blogs, we still have parties in the first place. Why can’t we just get to know the neighborhood MPs and choose the one that best represents us?
If parties exist due to an inability for every citizen to communicate their opinion quickly and easily, but we live in a society where that’s not necessarily true anymore, then are we holding on to the system for sheer legacy purposes?
Sir, thanks. Canadians need more voices in Canadian politics that are principled and actively represent their constituents – esp. it seems inside the Conservative party. Harper is turning out to be a disappointment and appears to be acting more as an ideologue with a hidden agenda than a principled representative of the citizens who elected him.
This government prides itself on being transparent. They talk about it, and even raise legislation – all to appear open and transparent when they are nothing but.
I have ZERO trust for any government that muzzles its party members to the extent that the Conservatives have. The Liberals weren’t all that different but at least you got to see a whole spectrum of opinion, some of which agreed with the philosophies of the leader, and some which didn’t. The point being: everyone needs to have a say.
I expect my member of Parliament to have an opinion and to be able to express it. I distrust any party that pretends to have unanimous points of view – about *anything*.
I like some of what the Conservatives have done, but this one act – muzzling by banishing – has shot them in the foot. I guarantee you: my vote will go to the Liberals next time.
And yes – it’s been said that Harper was unaware of what went on. Well that’s crap and everyone knows it. He gave his tacit approval to this – it’s how things are done in government, so that the leader can claim ignorance.
Nice going Harper! You honestly had my vote prior to this stunt. Got any more tricks up your sleeve?
Unbelievable. I wish you were my MP, Mr. Turner. I vote liberal, but I don’t care what party you represent. I’d vote for you, because you truly represent the people. Keep it up!
It is time the government, regardless of party understood that the constituents are the bosses.. not the party caucus. I don’t agree with PC ideology but I certainly do believe in considering your constituents first. Majority is not always right and a strong character is needed to balance what is right versus what is popular. Frankly.. I think you would make an excellent Green Party member and possibly could change the direction of Canada’s political future incredibly were you to take the Green banner. This country needs a recognized Green party..
good luck
Mr. Turner, with all due respect, I voted of the CPC first and you second.
I am all for standing up for your riding but this is still a ‘team’ game.
Swallow your pride and make this work please!
We need reform here badly. One vote for the local M.P. and one vote for PM – that would increase everyones honesty and reduce the personal agendas at play.
Regrettably I guess this will means they have made an example of you (Garth) and that will probably mean all the rest of the Conservative MP’s will be “properly encouraged” to tow the party line. This is not good for democracy. When a dissenting voice is banished from the party because it is unpopular this LOOKS bad for democracy. IMHO it is EVERY bit as bad is imprissioning political dissentents in China or some other Tin Pot dictarorshhip because someone’s ego can’t stand to listen to critiicsm.
I support Garth but it sure is HARD to support the Conservative Party if simply banishing dissidents is Standard Operating Procedure. This just plain makes the Conservative Party LOOK bad, unless I don’t understand all the facts of the issue.
AND because there has not been any real official announcement I don’t really know all the facts of the issue.
I would like WAY more information on both sides of this “banishment”.
I support Garth BUT I really hope that the allegation that he broke caucus confidelitiality rules is NOT true. If it is true I would like to see the proof?
Concerned voter.
Tom Wilcox
There are a few posts from those who obviously are of the social conservative (religious right) persuasion. There’s a conspiracy theory that such people played a role in ousting Garth.
I hope there’s no truth in such a charge but I have noticed since the days of Reform and Stockwell Day that religious conservatives seem to live under the delusion that they represent some “silent majority”, that it’s a good tactic to try to achieve their goals covertly under a secular party banner. Nothing could be further from the truth! Particularly in Ontario and the East, where a CHP (Christian Heritage Pary) was the kiss of death at the ballot box. You can play all the nomination and ouster games you want but you still have to win on election night.
Some years ago at a Reform Convention a smart young man told the party that if they ran on a religious right ticket of abortion and same-sex issues they would lose badly. That man was Harper.
I just can’t believe that God would back a specific side in an election. I don’t think I’m the only voter in my riding who would bail on a social conservative candidate…
Stay in Politics Garth, you owe it to our dysfunctional political apparatus.
I have not been a fan, Garth, given your agressive mercantile approach to ‘heritage conservation’ in the Caledon area. However, you have handled have yourself with aplomb in the past 24 hours. Your comments have been right on the mark and now that I’ve seen your Web site, it is truly a populist service to your constituents. I may reconsider my opinion of you.
Is it not pretty much a certainty that you will not be able to work with any party? …at least not without compromise?
Access to our government and access to the truth are an inevitable byproduct of electronic communications. One of the more disturbing trends of Harpers “Greater Responsibility and Transparency” government is the assumption that he and his cozy coven Myrmidons can dictate without being questioned. The farther-right reincarnation of the PCs wasn’t popular with many former supporters. His government squeaked in only with considerable mud-slinging and tabloid rants about scandal. This would be the time for a patient, cunning leader to make the concessions necessary to gain more power. Instead, Harper is a childish, self-agrandising twit who expects everyone to cower before him on command.
The most important thing any of us can to in order to make progress toward a future which is more free, honest and open is to stand up to people like that in no uncertain terms. You have done so without pettiness and bitterness. Congrats.
Andrew D – you hit the nail on the head. At my place of work, I often have to be part of a process which runs counter to my way of doing things but things are not always going to go my way. As an ADULT, I realize this and work within the team. I realized this long before becoming an adult and it has always worked for me.
Andrew, you are entirely correct – we do work together and, like you, I am tired of the tired old line.
Garth – can you be our champion for electoral reform? Could this be your calling?
Good for you, Garth. Make the most of your new elbow room.
I hope that while the spotlight is shining so brightly you make it plain to Canadians that the CPC are not the familiar “Tories”.
Best of luck! Sounds like you have a ton of support.
Garth, I live in your riding and I am proud to say that I voted for you. I have been a “Conservative” for as long as you have, however, I just ripped up my invitation to renew my membership in the Conservative Party. You are representing me, the little taxpayer, exactly as I wanted you to – don’t ever stop. You don’t need a party – sit as an Independent – I would vote for you again. Keep doing what you are doing, if only the other MPs would be like you, what a country this would be!
Garth: KEEP UP THE GOOD WORK ANYTHING THAT UPSETS “THE STEPHEN” HAS TO BE GOOD. IT ALSO DREW ME TO YOUR BLOG AND I MIGHT BE CORRECT IN ASSUMING I AM NOT THE ONLY ONE.
Its a start.
If you could just get the rest of the MPs to join you as independants we would have good government.
Unfortunatly, most people who become MPs are PARTY people in the negative sense.Inkless Wells nails it.
Firstly, I love Alberta and graduated from Western Canada High School in downtown Calgary, but that’s no reason to blindly support a tar sands project that is destroying the air, water and land in Northern Alberta and Saskatchewan in the name of an expanding economy. Buying some more RRSPs won’t be an issue when cancer is eating away at your insides.
To Tyler from Kamloops, your “ordinary average white collar middle class white-boy” is actually less than 1/2 the population of this country. The fact that you represent almost all the seats in parliament and think that you have to be a “middle-class white boy” to be average and ordinary, is a major reason why voter turnout is so low.
At least one of you ordinary average white collar middle class white-boys, Garth Turner, has the guts to say what he feels, and that is the true freedom and democracy that Harper and Bush preach, but seldom practice.
Hey,
I just wanted to say that i think individuality is the strongest cure to declining interest in politics and politics declining responcibility to the people
To all you conservative team workers:
I suggest you get to know your representitives in the future rather than towing your pappy’s line about who to vote for. Individuality rather than party is alot strong way of ensuring that you get what you want ( Ie look at Scott brison and Peter mackay, two good old boys from nova scotia that i think exemplify this)
As for the rest of you Conservatives dont worry, I hear the Borg have great Teamwork!
Yep Harper is a dick.
I find it quite interesting how you are playing to be the “innocent†unsuspecting victim, get a stinking life man!
People have to work in teams. Working effectively as a team member is a neccesary condition for success in the adult working world. It is something that I expect of colleagues. It is certainly something I expect of my elected representative and his party colleagues. So, Garth, I am disappointed. Now, in terms of crossing the floor – I urge you not to move to another party. You should remain as an Independant. Your role as an Independant MP certainly dimiishes your capacity to effectively work for Halton residents. However, the alternative – crossing the floor – is at odds with the democratic intent of the people of Halton. We elected a Conservative – not a Liberal or Green Party candidate.
Thank God this happened. I am a Conservative also disgusted by there envirometal policies. Hopefully Garth can become the First Green MP in hte house. People with morality need to be supported, and Garth obviously has it.
well Maritimer selling canadian industry out to highly subdized Airbus at the expense of workers in winnepeg, montreal and toronto who work on boeing contracts seems RED to me. If the mackay love europeans so much please live in socialist europe. Elmer was a buddy of a german airbus lobbiest and thus how Peter got his job of being a lawyer against north american workers in the aerospce industry. The man would like to write a blank cheque for the commonwealth games which is basically giving the commonwealth games federation 80 million up front.
If exporting our treasury to europe at the expense of the canadian taxpayers and canadian industry is conservative well I guess you think you know peter mackay better then this person from the heart of his own constituency.
Paul
Go Green Garth!!!!!!!
Godd for you! This is one more example of the dark side of this government. Watch the polls…This is not what Canadians want from their politicians.
In the words of a politician who crossed the floor more than once,…”never, never, never, give in”. Mr. Turner, well done. You are and have been and hopefully will continue to be, “the voice of the people”. You can take one more step to complete your metamorphosis and that is to join the Liberals. Keep up the good work sir. Any resistance to the neocons lead by the Bush clone Harper, is most welcome in Canada today.
Stick it to ‘em!! Don’t toss your values or lick the boots of anybody. Keep up the good work, and by the way, ever consider a move to newfoundland?
Phil
Garth, you have done a great service to the taxpayers of Canada by bringing new Conservative policy out in the open!!
I only wish my MP could be more upfront and open with their consituents the way you have with yours!
My blogging had also gotten me into serious trouble, luckily it was only a volunteer position that I was removed from. Sometimes you have to take your frustrations out somewhere, so I support you 100% in your use of this medium, good or bad.
Keep up the fantastic work!
As a Halton citizen I have never been more proud of any member of government. Congratulations, Garth, on standing up for yourself and your beliefs. As censorship and secrecy reign more and more in the Conservative government, a critical, non-partisan opinon is very valuable, and very rare. Now you have a chance to make a difference for the Green Party, and I would be thrilled to see you take that opportunity.
Way to go!
It’s the federal tories that are the biggest losers in this mess. Pity, but I guess it helps the opposition (what were they thinking?).
I guess nothing changes that much in politics – and people wonder why there is such low voter turnout.
Good luck Garth! Hope you keep the blog – one of the few ways citizens can see what is going on in government.
I’m a voter in the neighbouring riding (Halton Hills) who has watched this with a lot of interest. I’m one of those who are Conservative/Green and should Mr Turner switch to Green it would be a strong sign that they are ready for at least a minor role in parliment as I do respect Mr Turner and should they be good enough for him then I will most likely park my vote in the Green area next election.
As a Halton resident and a non-aligned voter, I applaud your actions and support your re-election efforts.
I resent having to vote for a party as opposed to an individual who 1) lives in my riding and 2) has my local interests at heart on the federal level. This business about “I voted for a conservative and feel betrayed” is nonsense. Garth was banished from the Tory caucus for having some critical thinking skills he’s willing to exercise, he didn’t cross the floor like those other turncoats. Does the Tory party want a living, breathing, thinking candidate or a robotic parrot in Parliament? The party has obviously orchestrated this move, and who cares if it was with the blessing of the PMO? I’m sure they’re all real broken up about the whole affair.
The Harper govt used words like “transparency” and “accountability” in the wake of the sponsorship debacle during the election. Now that they’re in power the PM has refused to talk to the Commons press gallery (oh boo-hoo, you’re the PM now, Steve, act like one — every single PM before you has to deal with them, what makes you so special?) and every single caucus member is kept on a tight leash, media wise. So much for transparency. And accountability only works if people know what’s going on in the first place.
Stay the course, Garth.
Garth, I wish you were my MP here in Barrie.
As a university student, I learned about the party system and how it is ruining our ‘democracy’. MPs are elected to represent their riding constitutients, but are offered party $ and support to vote along party lines instead of in the best interest of their riding. Political prostitution, I call it! The whole concept of a party whip is disgusting. Any party that would ask you to speak or vote against your riding, and punish you if you don’t, is doing a disservice to all Canadians. (The earlier poster who refers to Harper as your ‘boss’ exemplifies this perversion). For that reason I didn’t vote for any party over the ensuing years – refusing my ballot or voting independent.
However, I recently (since 2003) found a party which breaks the mold – the Green Party. This is a party that puts local concerns first, and would never ask a person to vote with the party against their riding, would never punish them if they did. There is no Green Party Whip, nor will there ever be!
Go Green, Garth. As an investment guru, you are trained to look at the long-term rather than the short-term. The only party which thinks long-term, looking beyond the surface to the underlying fundamentals, is the Green Party. That is where a wise, conservative, open-minded, outspoken yet caring & thinking person belongs.
BTW, people here have warned that you will now be popular with former ‘enemies’. This may refer to Liberals or NDP, but I’m sure you already realize that Elizabeth May was never your enemy before, and if she invites you to join, it is not a false or opportunistic conversion. One need only watch your own MPTV to see that she was your friend before the CPC weren’t!
Does it not bother any of you that Garth was caught lying to the public on the Radio last night?
Plus he was caught lying by Stephen Taylor.
What kind of an MP is willing to promote falshoods for his own personal gain?
Garth, I appreciate your strong opinions, but am troubled by your inability to take responsibility for your actions, or even represent them truthfully.
On this one, I think the CPC has made the right choice.
Have no idea what you are referring to on the radio, but when it comes to Taylor’s blog – check it again. I have answered that issue fully. However, make your own decisions! — Garth
Join Elizabeth and the Green Party Garth.
You know it makes sense. Every revolution has to start somewhere!!!
Well done, Even I may have voted traditionally differently in the past, if I were in your riding, I’d be voting for you in any capacity, Green, Independent.
I don’t see your values being shared by this party. I hope you find the right fit, keep fighting.
When the PMO cannot handle dissent (still waiting for those international AIDS announcements)the answer is not to withdraw, or shut people down.
I’m afraid these RepubliCanadians called the Conservative party are just a example of “branch plant” politics. Just as the Canadian economy is driven by multinational (mostly US) branch plants, such as the case in Ontario, it appears they’ve done the same with politics.
Just something else we have bought from the Republicans repackaged for Canadian content as the Conservatives.
Transparency, Democratic deficit, accountability…..I see you standing for all of these things, and thus your rejection from the Conservatives.
Keep your values!
Harper is a Nazi scumbag and his party is made up of a bunch of brown shirts. The proof is in the pudding!
Hi Garth, I don’t live in your riding but I would like to make a donation to you for your re-election campaign if you are intending to seek re-election as I am fairly certain you would be. Can you let us know how to go about doing so. I don’t really care for a tax reciept. I think Ottawa needs more people like you. I hope you dog is doing well and you can relax a bit taking her for a walk. Regards from Coquitlam BC
I think it should be pointed out to those who say if he goes Green he’d be a hypocrite because he was outspoke about MPs crossing the floor — what they are not seeing is that Garth was kicked out of his party, he did NOT leave.
That is a huge difference.
Please choose to remain independent.
I would respect you the MOST if you joined the
Libertarian Party of Canada.
http://www.libertarian.ca/
I would hope your path forward now might include a period of quite reflection (“keep your head down”) and a back room deal to rejoin the Conservative Party at some later date, with a clear understanding of your role and responsibility within the party.
Please do not under any circumstances consider joining the Liberal Party. That should not be an option.
I would like to suggest the move to the Green Party would be a questionable choice…
Perhaps a few words of inspiration:
“There are no mistakes. The events we bring upon ourselves, no matter how unpleasant,
are necessary in order to learn what we need to learn; whatever steps we take, they’re
necessary to reach the places we’ve chosen to go.”
“There is no such thing as a problem without a gift for you in its hands. You seek problems because you need their gifts.”
Quotes by Richard Bach
Good Luck
Headline today – “TROUBLE GRIPS TORIES†– Globe & Mail. This is clearly an editor gone wild, trying to trump up a simple story of one MP gone bad into a national scandal. Garth wanted this from day one. He has a far better chance of re-election as an independant than as a Conservative in his neck of the woods. I predict this power hungry egomaniac will study which way the wind is blowing before deciding which party to jump to. The sad thing is, it didn’t have to be this way Garth. You coulda’ been a star. You coulda’ been a contender. You chose loose lips on a tight ship.
Somebody said the conservatives shot themselves in the foot. More like they tripped over their own ding a ling. These people are actually running this country? From this voter’s point of view, there were may better options to handle Garth than turfing him. The result of this action is that they have given Garth a much wider spectrum to say what needs to be heard. Some may think Garth will have his fifteen minutes of fame and they may be right. I personally feel the conservatives have just proved what Garth has been pointing out.
Someone said Mr Harper is a liar. What? You just figured that out? ALL politicians have to lie some of the time, including Garth. It comes with the job. But at least Garth has the audacity to not treat us like we are totally stupid and I have found over the last few months that he tells it like it is most of the time.
Mr Harper is using this to slip something by us. Watch carefully what comes out in the next few days.
To Garth, all I can say is sorry that being outspoken has cost you this much. What seems to be happening is that people have forgotten that our MPs ARE SUPPOSED to speak for us in government. Remember people, that government is not supposed to muzzle us or restrict us. It is supposed to help us. What just happened to Garth proves one thing and one thing only.
WELCOME TO CORPORATE CANADA INC.
Dear Neutered MP: Harper has proved that he has great patience and tolerance, granting indulgence to you for nearly a year now. If he finally got fed up with you, so be it – you ASKED FOR IT so many times! At least be genuine, and admit that you expected this to happen months ago. You took the Conservative logo off your web site the day after the election, for God’s sake!
“75% of respondents on a CTV poll felt you got what you deserved……that is more accurate than your blog which has been a voice for the dippers and grits since day one…….”
Funny the survey was
Garth Turner was kicked out of the Tory caucus, a direct result of his blog postings. What do you think?
Turner was asking for trouble
He was unfairly ejected
Never mentioned “he got what he deserved” why are you trying to misrepresent a question?
I hope that you continue to represent the constituents of your riding. As you say, that is your primary duty. I’m glad that someone else is tired of Mr. Harper’s slight of hand as I am. Everything from gun controls, the environment and tax cuts are just window dressing. The “real” legislation will come after Mr. Harper is re-elected, so he says.
You have been a household name for as long as I can remember. On the way to my classes today, I picked up the papers and read a familiar name.
Its about time someone stood up for the truth and about time someone made it worth going to the polls. Good luck on your future endeavours and you have my vote
Garth:
I remember a few years ago when you were on television giving advice on investments.If I recall correctly, they were on CTV. that’s Conservaive Tele Vision (much like FOX in the US). Your closing remarks were “I’m Garth Turner, taking care of your money”.
I have just heard of your delema with the conservative (Bush) party and I must say that I am not the least bit suprised at what has happened. Nor am I sorry. I feel that a man with your integrity should not be confined to the single minded vision of any polital party. However, as you mentioned on your interview in CBC Newsworld this morning, an independant does not have much chance of re-election and does not have much voice in parliament. I sincerely hope that whaterver choice you make with regard to your party convictions, that the people of your riding understand that you are there for them…. Not The Party.
If this is the case you will get re-elected no matter which banner you choose. I know that I would vote for you if I lived in Halton. Why? Because I believe that your that you were sincere about your convictions regarding investment. To paraphrase “I am Garth Turner… taking care of your interests”
All the best, Garth. Keep up the good work!!!!!
I don’t even like all of Mr. Turner’s ideas, but I do know a representative government means. He is doing his democratic and Canadian duty. Harper follows the dictator’s playbook of the Bush administration. Anybody taking the Harper line here about Turner being disloyal is a simpleton who puts his/her own needs (especially the need to “get back” at the Liberals after years of feeling left out) over the needs of Canada and Canadians. Turner is a patriot. Harper is a traitor who is selling us all out to the U.S. Game on!
Garth, Please accept my regards in your pursuit of an ethical and responsible representation of your beliefs and values that as an elected official you have maintained for your Riding and contituents.
Although we wear different colors for now, there is no grey areas with respect to the lack of protocol exercised and resulting in this expedited dismissal.
Many positives will result from your transparency and as you have seen in the last 24 hours, many support you in principle.
Enjoyed your book ‘The Strategy’ and your remarkable economic predictions from the late 90’s that we are now dealing with today.
All the best,
Paul Lumsden
Communication Chair
Federal Liberal Riding
Vancouver Island North
Comment on the very first comment posted by “Jerry”.
Jerry trumpets what “alberta has done” by citing a 2002 climate change sales document which is a) full of hot air, and b) not being implemented.
Guess what – that document is written with support for “emissions intensity reduction”, which is the same as the new CPC clean air act introduced by Ambrose today. Code words for: We’ll let you produced MORE GHG’s.
Guess what. Ambrose used to help write these policies when she worked for Klein.
Guess what. These are the policies that the energy industry wants, including CEO’s and former CEO’s like Jim Buckee (Talisman) and Gwyn Morgan (former CEO EnCana).
Both are noted climate change denyers.
Morgan is a key political funds contributor to more than one current sitting cabinet minister and also to Stephen Harper.
The plan introduced today is truly a step backwards. As I’ve written elsewhere, I was unhappy about the Chretien pace of action, didn’t expect Martin to do anything, and expected Harper to do walk backwards, which he has.
Not a good day for environmental or climate change files at all.
But… my party, the Conservative Party, will suffer an electoral price for this and in my opinion, that is a good thing. Its time that the mainstream, rather than the right wing, reasserted control over the party and if it takes an electoral defeat to accomplish that, so be it.
Last I checked, there is no “I” in team
Steve
Garth, you were on CHQR77 on Rob Breakenridge’s show. Rob asked you point blank (regarding breaking caucus confidentiality) “Have you changed anything”. Garth responds “No. Everything’s the way I wrote it”.
Stephen Taylor has proved that is not right.
You should either admit you were wrong, or quit trying to marginalize things. You DID break caucus confidentiality, and you DID change your web posts because of it.
It makes everything else you say pale because of the dishonesty.
I have answered this several times on the blog – suggest you review the comments. A post I wrote on May 23rd mentioned caucus briefly – but did not quote anyone, of course. The Government Whip told to edit it, and wanting to be an eager team player, I did so. The issue was never mentioned again. — Garth
[...] age.Garth’s statement was not unlike others that he made last night and today on his blog. The reporters in the room were desperately trying to bait him into saying someth [...]
Lots of advice & support here from the libs & n’dips Garth,but are they going to vote for you next time around.Think real hard about your past.You did find it difficult to be an MP & not a gossip columnist.Constantly pissing into your own tent is not an endearing quality.
Garth, in a time when Canadians feel like too much power is concentrated in the executive, and especially the PMO, and they feel as though party politics trumps the needs of citizens, you are a breath of fresh air. Thanks for supporting a principle that actually resonates with Canadians.
I just have to reply to those that keep trotting out this “when I’m in a company I accomodate their policies even if I don’t like them” argument.
Trying to compare solidarity in a business to Garth’s actions within and outside the CPC is just plain apples and oranges. Politics is not private business, folks! It is an admixture of ideas and often competing interests, and not a place for demagogues and information-control. People, not profit or political power, is central to government.
Too long in Canada have people believed the myth that political parties are one organic mass marching to the same beat. An introductory course on Canadian political parties would smash that idea in a second.
And the worst part about this idea (and the tendency of most parties to project it) is the disservice it is doing to average Canadians. Some real discourse within our parties would be a true favour to Canadians.
Until that changes, hard-working, constituent-minded MPs like Garth will continue to pay the price. Shame on us.
Garth,
I guarantee you that 75% of the negative comments towards you here are being typed by a dedicated team of Conservative volunteers.
Canadians respect your politics.
Keep up your crucial work.
Andrew.
Your my HERO!
Join The Green Party if your constituents are cool with it. We would love to have you!
Cheers
James
Young Green Organizer.
Your biggest FAN!
I support you Garth. It’s unfortunate especially in politics that one cannot speak their mind freely without fear of action, any action being taken against him or her. I am not a tory, but I have always like your style, candor and views. Stay positive!
Greg
Given the horrific secrecy of the Harper crowd, since well before they took power, we certainly NEED someone who is going to tell Harper’s employers — that’s US! — what our employee is up to. The more secret the Harper crowd insist on being, the more suspicious we should be, as we should be suspicious of any party that tries to hide from us.
Thank you, Mr. Turner! Thanks for being a REAL, Progressive, Conservative!
In the name of Chuck Cadman, who was also backstabbed by this awful neo-Con crowd — GOOD LUCK! More power to you! Literally.
Not a fan of Reform politics (or, as they call themselves now, The Conservative Party of Canada), however it is extremely refreshing to see an MP stand by his morals & ethics. I applaud Mr. Turner, and the stance he has taken (regardless of impact) in ensuring that his constituents interests (and the free flow of information to them) is maintained. With any luck, one would hope that a new standard for MP behaviour has been set.
Thank you Mr. Turner.
Garth, it is refreshing to see a politician stand up for his beliefs and who’s first priority is to represent his constituents.
Two thirds of Canadians are “desperately concerned†that if drastic action is not taken right away the world may not last much longer than another couple of generations, according to a poll released in October by Ipsos Reid.
When global climate change and global warming at what most Canadians beleive will be the #1 crisis by 2020 and the Conservative government is backpeddling on Kyoto — speaking out is the right thing to do. This is the essense of leadership is! Well done Garth!
Jim Harris
Former Leader, Green Party of Canada
read my blog at http://blog.greenparty.ca/en/blog
Garth,
Canada needs more people like you.
Thank you for being there for the people that elected you.
Cheers!
Well Garth, we have had some heated discussions on this blog in the past and I haven’t always agreed with you, but I always respected you for taking a public position and arguing your case openly.
Your the man.
I love the little ‘dump and run’ comments that show up. Clearly, they haven’t got a clue as to what has been going on.
Garth, if you join the Liberal party, one word from me: Sayanora.
Floor Crossing: OK you one time dump and runners, the situation is different. Turner was thrown overboard by the Conservatives. As far as I am concerned, that leaves Garth free to make his own decisions.
Furthermore, as a Conservative who voted for him to be my candidate, and also voted forhim in the ensuing general election, I am angry that the party dismissed my voice to the government and to the party.
This in the same week that they sent me two pieces of mail asking for financial contributions. I’ve got news for them, they won’t get another cent from me, and they certainly lost my vote, until such time as the ’suspension’ is lifted.
Garth has been a breath of fresh air to our political system, and as far as I am concerned, the Conservatives may have totally screwed up the kind of grass roots populism that they supposedly endorsed.
Uh, Andrew – you are wrong in your assumed statistic. I take it that you make up stuff all the time.
What gets me is how many people think this is either a western take over or a suppression of free speech. Get a grip. The CPC has put up with Garth’s antics month after month. He has tried everyone’s patience and turned Ottawa into a 3-ring circus reality TV show.
Finally, his colleagues said enough already! Big surprise! The end of free speech everywhere … let’s not be melodramatic. Garth is not the first nor the last MP to get an ouster. Ask Sheila Copps or Carolyn Parrish.
Interviewing the head of the Green Party, who is not an elected MP in an area of the parliament buildings that is restricted to elected MPs is not acceptable especially when the interview could be done anywhere. If you break all of the rules in life, don’t be surprised when you get called on the carpet. It’s not fun or pleasant but that’s the way it is. People only put up with so much and then, it’s over.
It isn’t an ultra-conservative, homophobic, religious right, George W. Bushwhacking conspiracy (oops, forgot to mention the Masons & the Cogniscenti),.. it’s reality. It happens to all of us…every day.
Carly Fiorella, Newt Gingrich, Hank Greenburg, Lawrence Summers, Geraldo Rivera, Margaret Thatcher, William Clay Ford Jr….the list is endless. Even Thomas Edison was voted out of two companies he founded.
Anyone who believes that you can say and do whatever you please without regard to other’s feelings or concerns is kidding themselves.
When was the last time that you told your mother in law that she was overweight or your boss that he is a micro-manager? Or how about telling your wife that her Thanksgiving turkey dinner sucked. As if!
Now it’s time to trash the CPC because after months of trying to be inclusive, open to ideas, seeing the other guy’s point of view…they realize that this guy has no respect for their ideas or priorities.
Does a minority parliament deep-six MPs for a difference of opinion…seems to me that we have lots of MPs expressing their opinions every day in the house without any problems whatever and plenty of free votes.
Should party priorities be dictated by one squeaky wheel into a 360 degree course change from the priorities upon which the government was elected by the Canadian public and for which the CPC has a mandate. Is one man’s claim to having his finger on the pulse of his constituents to trump all other concerns?
This has been coming ever since Garth got passed over for a cabinet position. With his experience, brilliance, intelligence, and boundless energy, he would have been a fabulous cabinet minister but Garth was not made for the shadows of the back bench and so, we have this unfortunate episode. It has all of the inevitability of a Greek tragedy.
“The fault lies not in our stars but in ourselves” – William Shakespeare.
It’s nice to finally see a politician stand up and say that they work for the people and not the party.
If you support a certain Party and vote to ensure that Party Leader becomes the next PM, (instead of voting on who would best represent the interests of the Riding), then you are stuck with what you have. But the Candiate also has a responsibility as well to ensure that they want to represent a certain Party, and that the Party’s platform is close to their own. Unfortunately with the breakup of Parties and creation of new ones, the old values might not mesh with the new ones creating confusion for Canditates and Voters. But to get back to the original point… Politicians work for the people, and report to the people.
They have a mandate from the Voters to represent them to the Government. Toeing the “Party Line” is fine as long as it does not negatively impact the Voters, BUT if the Representative believes the Government is in error, then they have a right to speak up without penalty.
Garth: As one of your constituents, I would wholeheartedly be in favour of your joining forces with the Green party, and would be willing to participate to help in the next Halton election. I’m not a member of any party at present, but with you on board, I would be inspired to join your team. I’ve voted Green the last couple of elections, mostly because I want to see them gain the stature needed to participate in the political discourse of our nation, but I have had many reservations, as when it comes to economic and fiscal issues, I fit more in line with the Tory platform.
Still, the issue of making our modern society more sustainable & less wasteful and maintaining our environment so that it can continue to provide us with prosperity, and how we address the looming issue of peak oil production are the #1 biggest challenges facing Canada and our world in 2006.
There’s simply no issue more important to Canada than that. Certainly attention in these areas is far more critical and the need for action more immediate than the question of whether two people of the same sex can be married or whether we save 2 cents GST on a cup of coffee.
This is a rare opportunity, for you, for Halton, for the Green Party and for Canada. I say 100% go for it!
Hello Garth,
I am a 19 year old female in Belinda Stronach’s riding (and have familiarized myself with the daily controversies of Canadian politics). I’ve been fascinated backtracking through your blog and things you’ve written in the past since seeing you in the headlines yesterday. I’m very impressed with your honesty and integrity and would be proud to have you represent me in parliament. I’ll be following your story and wish you all the best.
Regards,
Kiara
Garth,
Edmund Burke suddenly springs to mind when thinking of the great flurry of promises Mr. Harper made in his effort to wrest control from those “arrogant” Liberals:
“Hypocrisy can afford to be magnificent in its promises; for never intending to go beyond promises; it costs nothing.”
And Mr. Harper was indeed quite magnificent last winter. I, and many Canadians were silly enough to believe he would deliver a new way, a better way. Shame on us for thinking it was anything other than ambition talking.
We remember Mr. Harper’s promises for more free votes; for truly independent Committees; for an open and honest Parliament; for fairness and transparency. The “new” Government of Canada is not the improved Government of Canada.
It’s always disappointing to discover that someone you believed in is a hypocrite. It’s really disappointing when he’s the Prime Minister.
Keep up the good work Garth!
Sometimes I agree with the Conservative party, but it deeply concerns me that, as a group, they don’t seem to realize that when the prairies dry up and the water is undrinkable, it won’t just be the “hippies” who will suffer. As an average member of the Green Party, I would welcome you to our party. You seem to have something that is frequently lacking in politics – integrety. Too bad the Conservatives don’t seem to be placing a high value on that right now.
It is too bad that this happens when you speak your mind. I thought that Stephen Harper and party were supposed to make up for the liberals mistakes in the past – well that is a crock!!!!
Our country is more screwed up than ever. We may as well be American…now they are flying Black Hawks over our borders and no one in Parliament is arguing this? What is wrong with these people? I agree that we need stronger border security but no one in Parliament seems to understand what our Customs officials duties are. One sd that they just collect duties and taxes. I think that they should get their asses off of their chairs, don a customs uniform and work at one of the busiest border crossings for a month to see what actually transpires. Then maybe we wouldn’t be so anxious to let in 300000+ new immigrants!!!
Well it all sort of makes sense now…
The Harper government JUST released its Clean Air act and they sure don’t want Garth in the party to be critize it, because that should be the job of the opposition. SO … it looks like what we were reading yesterday is true. Garth was kicking out in a pre-emptive strike to silence his opposition to the Clean Air Act that they announced today. His banishment yesterday, does not seem at ALL coincidental!.
Sad sad day in Canadian Politics. (if thats what we now call it in this totalitarian rule from within a minority government?
( HOW the heck does that work?)
As an Evangelical Christian, I was insulted when some comments were made that labelled christians and anyone else who opposes same sex marriage due to their moral beliefs and religion, ‘Taliban” and “flowers of Evil”.You are entitled to your own opinion, but with that right, comes the responsibility not to show outright contempt towards those who differ.I am not one of your constituents.I am from the Vegreville-Wainwright riding and my MP, Leon Benoit, is a socon himself, and when those comments were made(intentionally or unintentionally),they showed intolerance towards those who oppose ssm, including Mr.Benoit.You said you believe in everyone having the right to dissent, but it should work both ways.
If you did leak info that was not supposed to be leaked, then yes you do deserve what you got.Like i said before, you have the right to your own opinion, but when doing so, you must act within the rules and boundaries.If you don’t, the only people you will be helping, are the corrupt lieberals, the incompetent NDPee’rs, and the separatist anti-canadian BlocQheads.
God bless you and God bless Canada.
Mr. Turner, I have a question for you regarding the StephenTaylor issue: was that incident of changing a post the only one? I know it’s a tough question that casts doubt, but I would like to clarity on your blog-post editting – I do not blog myself (not yet) and in my experience at message boards one usually has less than a day to correct a “faux pas” before what is posted becomes permanent.
I would like to believe you are setting a good example for other MPs to follow (with respect to speaking up, not being a party robot, etc.) but I am nagged by the question of the degree and circumstances changes have appeared on your blog. I hope you will clarify things for everyone to read – I don’t expect politicians to be perfect, but consistency and integrity attract my vote
Regards, B
As far as I can recall, that was the only time the Governmment Whip ordered me to change something, and that I complied. — Garth
Mr. Turner, you don’t belong in this most CYNICAL of all governments I have known in this country. Harper rewrote the dictionnary by eliminating the words “integrity”, and “accountability”, to be replaced by smoke-and-mirror policies, that sound great but when you scratch the surface, you find nothing but a hollow space. You don’t belong in the company of this government.
Oh, I almost forgot: the Liberals made me say this.
I voted Green for the first time in the last election. Sadly, I just couldn’t bring myself to vote for either of the parties I’ve voted for in the past. (Leaving the moneybag with the Liberals was unconscionable – leaving Canada with the Harper Conservatives was even more frightening.) Please go Green, Garth. We need key people there. It’s a great “ground floor” opportunity to really do something wonderful for Canada.
Garth,
I admire you for standing up and speaking out against some of the awful policies of the current government. I hope other Conservative MPs will follow your example.
Thank you also for featuring Elizabeth May on your blog.
And don’t forget to join the Green Party.
Thank you for your answer Mr. Turner!
I’m looking forward to what happens next! 
Sorry to read about what has happened Garth. I’m even more confident of my choice now to be in the Progressive Canadian Party (the true PC Party).
Not surprising, but disappointing! I accept that this is proof of what we have known for some time but hoped was not true … that our governments ( at least since Trudeau ) are not champions of “free speech” but oppressors of it !! Such hypocrisy is unacceptable. Secrecy indeed! This is “open” government????
You are needed! Stick with it!
Way to go dude! Speaking your mind against injustice, and the way your government is doing things isn’t a crime.
You and everyone else have the right to speak out against injustices done to them or others. I was very worried when the current neo-naz…err “tory” gov’t got elected. I suspected this sort of thing would happen.
I say, tis better to sit as an indep than be associated with intolerance and hate-mongering. I wish you and your family my best in your lives, and Creator bless you all.
Garth, I think the biggest issue here is secrecy in government. I was at the Liberal forum in Toronto and saw an older man with a 1980 Trudeau button try to get out some information….You can actually see the old guy on the CPAC video of the Toronto forum….
about Ignatieff’s numerous declarations of allegiance to America and to the United States’ constitution and congress which the older man quite logically concluded makes Ignatieff unfit because of a “conflict of allegiance”. He handed out some flyers,one of which I kept, and after checking all of the allegations he made at the folowing websites I found that,amazingly, the older gentlemen has a very good and very scary point. Yet none of the media reported what the old guy said; yet they had no problem reporting what the young lady in a thong had to say.
http://www.granta.com/extracts/1643
http://www.ksg.harvard.edu/news/opeds/2004/ignatieff_less_evils_nytm_050204.htm
http://www.whitman.edu/content/news/LivingFearlesslyinaFearfulWorld
http://www.ksg.harvard.edu/news/backup/opeds/america_burden_ignatieff_nyt_010503.htm
Ignatieff WROTE things like these quotes in the articles above;
“I believed in America in a way Canada never allowed”
“America is the only nation on earth that can command the
faith of people like me”
“I have taught in the university system of Canada but
American higher education is the best
in the world”
“Being an American is not easy. It is hard. We are required
to keep some serious promises. We are judged by a high
standard, one we crafted for ourselves in the founding
documents of the republic, the ones that talk about the
equality of all people, the ones that tell us that
government is of the people, by the people and for the
people. We need to live by this, at home and abroad, and it
is just about the only thing we can do to face the hatred of
those who want to destroy us.”
Multiple references to “Our american constitution”..”our
american congress”..”our
american way of life”
“America is the only nation that fills the hearts and minds
of an entire planet with its dreams and desires.”
as well as his infatuation with what he calls “american
scripture” (Granta
article).
You can actually see the old guy on the cpac.ca video of the Toronto forum.
keep on keeping on,Garth
Welcome home Garth. I assume I live relatively near you. I am from south Burlington and therefore not in your riding. Given recent events, that almost seems a shame. I am nearly universally opposed to every public move your former boss has made in the last few years, well before he was elevated to the top job. (Instituting the reverse onus for three-time offenders is a rare exception.) I certainly deplore the fact that Mr. Harper plays his x’s and o’s from hermetic quarters. On the flip side, I truly appreciate that you have brought some of your government’s more pressing issues to light, and that you’re making fine use of the digital medium in which I make a living. I really wish we could all hear Stephen’s view about the caucus confidentiality you allegedly broke. Naturally that won’t happen. In any case, for what it’s worth, you have my moral support. Go forth with sustained resolve.
Come to the Greens Garth, don’t let the head-in-the-sand conservatives get you down. The archaic way of governing will soon end and the future is with forward thinking people who only want the best for this planet and this country. Kudos to you Garth, keep up the good work and keep fighting the good fight and don’t be afraid to say those two dirty words – climate change.
PS – there are Greens out here in Alberta, we’re not all blind
Go Green Garth. You will encourage a new wave of change. Save Canada from sinking in the tar sands and choking on CO2.
Garth I applaude you. Anyone who stands up for the people against a government like we have now is a good man. The conservatives dubbed the Liberals corrupt, but they are even worse as they don’t listen to anyone. It is damn the torpedoes, full steam ahead on what we want, not wht the country wants. Should the rumor that you have been offered a place in the Green Party be true, I think your constituents would be right behind you. Go for it.
If more of our politicians would question and debate policy put forth by their leaders, rather than blindly following it, this country would be a better place. It is the duty of our elected representatives, first and foremost, to serve their constituents as best they see fit, not to support the party reguardless of what it’s doing.
Garth, I wish you were my MP here in Barrie.
As a university student, I learned about the party system and how it is ruining our ‘democracy’. MPs are elected to represent their riding constituents, but are offered party $ and support to vote along party lines instead of in the best interest of their riding. Political prostitution, I call it! The whole concept of a party whip is disgusting. Any party that would ask you to speak or vote against your riding, and punish you if you don’t, is doing a disservice to all Canadians. (The earlier poster who refers to Harper as your ‘boss’ exemplifies this perversion). For that reason I didn’t vote for any party over the ensuing years – refusing my ballot or voting independent.
However, I recently (since 2003) found a party which breaks the mould – the Green Party. This is a party that puts local concerns first, and would never ask a person to vote with the party against their riding, would never punish them if they did. There is no Green Party Whip, nor will there ever be!
Go Green, Garth. As an investment guru, you are trained to look at the long-term rather than the short-term. The only party which thinks long-term, looking beyond the surface to the underlying fundamentals, is the Green Party. That is where a wise, conservative, open-minded, outspoken yet caring & thinking person belongs.
BTW, people here have warned that you will now be popular with former ‘enemies’. This may refer to Liberals or NDP, but I’m sure you already realize that Elizabeth May was never your enemy before, and if she invites you to join, it is not a false or opportunistic conversion. One need only watch your own MPTV to see that she was your friend before the CPC weren’t!
Mr. Turner
As a westerner who didn’t vote for you or your party, I have to say that what government needs is more people like you. Someone who indeed puts his constituents first. Best wishes to you in whatever happens from here.
What you have done is the essence of democracy. You were elected by and paid by the people of Canada and owe your allegiance to them not a party. You were not elected to vote on your personal or party’s views you were elected to vote on the views of your constituents. If this is what you do then you are the lone beacon of what true democracy is. It is beyond belief that an elected MP is ostracized for actually representing the views of his or her constituency. All parties must be terrified by your actions because you have given your electorate a voice! In Canada we are supposed to vote for a MP not a party or a prime minister and that MP is in Ottawa to represent us not the party. Good for you.
Garth Keep up the good work, you got the priorities straight..
regards GBP Norm
Go Garth. A little humor toward your former boss…Monty Python, the dead parrot sketch & the Harper/Ambrose Green Plan
Green plan not pinin’! It’s passed on! This plan is no more! It has ceased to be! It’s expired and gone to meet ‘is maker! The green plan a stiff! Bereft of life, ‘e rests in peace!
If you hadn’t nailed ‘im to the perch ‘e’d be pushing up the daisies! ‘Is metabolic processes are now ‘istory! It’s off the twig!
‘E’s kicked the bucket, ‘e’s shuffled off ‘is mortal coil, run down the curtain and joined the bleedin’ choir invisibile!!
THIS IS AN EX-GREEN PLAN!!
First of all – our freedom of speech has not been compromised. Let’s get that fact straight.
If am MP’s constituents object to something like the Emerson affair then by all means state, publicly or privately, that the constituents are not pleased (or however one wishes to say it). But, to go on and on and on about it is self-aggrandising and is not, absolutely not, representing the people. Let’s call a spade a spade.
In addition, Garth ran under the CPC banner. Period. No ifs, ands, or buts about it. He knew what Harper was like, he knew what the party was like, he knew what he was in for. Then, moments after the minority victory, the slagging began.
I am utterly surprised that the CPC put up with this for so long. I am still curious as to how many of Garth’s employees (over the duration of his careers) have fared if they criticised their boss (Garth).
One of the contributors brought up a good point – anybody whose viewpoint is different from Garth’s is labeled intolerant. Hmmm, a bit of double standard here. So, Harper is supposed to accept continual slagging. Garth is “working for his people”. No. Wrong. Garth was shooting off his mouth – plain and simple.
For all of you who find this “refreshing”, I’d love to come work with you – I’d be able to shoot off my mouth and be considered “refreshing”. You would not take offence, you would encourage me to exercise “free speech”. Yeah, right. You’d be the first ones to fire me or file a grievance against me. Let’s be honest here.
I suspect your future party affiliation options are limited Garth, as we’ve all seen evidence of member gagging by the others. Maybe it’s time for a grass roots “Independent Party Of Canada” movement, that does indeed put the people first, as you have.
Good on ya Garth!
“I am happy to talk to anybody right now,†adding that independents don’t have a lot of success getting elected”.
This – from the Toronto Star. Gee, Garth. You are so confident that “the people” for whom you “work” would love you and now you are considering crossing the floor because independents have problems getting elected? What happened to your confidence in your people? Garth – your two-facedness is astounding. You are a male Stronach.
For those who spout on about “compromise” — meaning of course that Mr. Turner must compromise his principles so the Cons can stay in power — try using the word “compromise” when you talk to the Harper crowd. A more UNcompromising bunch of “we’re-right-everyone-else-is-wrong” ideologues you will never find ANYWHERE.
Do a Chuck Cadman, Mr. Turner! Stand up for the freedom to hear EVERY voice, and not be silenced!
V.A.C. Christian, you complain that we call your crowd the “Christian Taliban” and then you turn around and say stuff like this:
> If you don’t, the only people you will be helping, are the corrupt lieberals, the incompetent NDPee’rs, and the separatist anti-canadian BlocQheads.
So let me get this straight. You believe in “don’t do as I do, do as I tell you or else” philosophy, I gather.
Speaking of the Taliban…
Garth being removed from Caucus, how it happened, and why, is further proof that Harper and his ideologues are a dangerous element to democracy.
The Conservatives are showing their true colours here – they wish to rule autocratically – quashing any dissent from their ranks without dialogue without recourse – like the reactionary bully at the party who covers his ignorance by starting a fist-fight.
This is damning Proof to the Lies Harper voices whenever he pretends to be the champion of accountable government. This is how the Tories treat one of there own Leaders who even dares voice an alternative view – they shun them – like a Cain to an Able.
I dread to think what this government will do to its citizens given enough time and extended powers. Soon the individual rights of a Canadian will be treated just like the Tories treated one of their own. – Voice an opposing opinion and the government will remove your voice by gagging your telephone, unplugging your computer, denying you access to the internet, and kicking you out of Canada. Heck they just did that too Garth!
There is a difference between acting with conviction in a constructive manner under unique circumstances (e.g.minority situation) and taking a bullish approach that will serve little to change the circumstances in question i.e. Emerson issue. Being part of a team requires moving the ball as the play has been determined by the coach and hopefully in the direction your team is going. Frankly you have taken a different approach (I’ve known you for a while) giving one the impression that although you may be somewhat “right” on an issue, that feeding your ego may be a more suiting explanation then simply serving your constituents. Surely after the number of years you have had in and around government, you could find a more appropriate approach to bringing change within your elected party. Shame Garth, shame on you!
Garth – Good Luck in figuring about what happens next. There is nothing wrong with being an independant and sticking up for your principles.
Too bad Mr. Harper is unable to stomach people who ask difficult questions.
Good Luck in whatever you do next.
Another former Red Tory (aka a Conservative with an environmental and social conscience.)
Cheers
Mark Levison
To all you who compare him to a dissenter in his office: He represents the people, not the party. Whether he was elected as a Conservative or any other party, it was HIM that got elected.
And to those telling him to stay as an independant unless he wants to look like a hippocrite for crossing the floor: He’s now crossing from Independant-Land to another party. He can’t cross from the Conservatives cause they KICKED HIM OUT. He’s not crossing the floor, they moved him across. Even with the new seating plan he’s now on the other side of the aisle!
I say Garth ought to join the Liberals and run for leader. They seem to be having a little trouble finding anyone with the right qualities. I believe Garth could win the leadership and become PM.
He is the type of person we need.
Thanks for representing democracy, Garth
Closer, when dealing with rigid ideologues like the Harper crowd, just how DOES one “work with” them? In their eyes, the only way you “work with” them is to agree with them completely, never ask questions, never offer an opinion that isn’t pre-scripted by their spin doctors.
Doesn’t integrity require, at some point, that you stand on principle rather than kow tow to that attitude?
I’m defending Mr. Turner a lot today, but in fact I don’t agree with most of his economic opinions. What I do believe in, very strongly, is that he was elected to represent the PEOPLE first.
Harper and that ilk consider themselves our RULERS, rather than our EMPLOYEES.
That is what I think Mr. Turner absolutely must stand against, and has been right in standing against. That is not democracy. You don’t “work with” that — you root out that sort of attitude and hurl those anti-democrats back to the Abyss where they belong.
To: CLOSER
CANADA IS A DEMOCRACY
NOT A DICTATORSHIP
DEMOCRACY = OPEN DEBATE OF OPINIONS & IDEAS
DICTATORSHIP = NO DIFFERING OPINIONS & IDEAS ALLOWED
I can’t wait for an election – Harper and his party are dangerous!
How did we ever let these Fascists hijack an historically reputable political party?
Thankful that they only won a Minority Government – now its time to chase them out of
Parliament – remake the Tories (again), and make sure these type of politicians
Get relegated to Canada’s equivalent of Siberia – Northern Hudson’s Bay.
Prior to politics I would be interested in knowing what team(s) you have been a part of. Having caoched baseball, hockey, and basketball for the better part of my adult life I can assure you that your perception of what it takes to be a team player is completely off base. In any of the team settings I have mentioned your actions would have gotten your ass kicked by your other team players long before the coach kicked your sorry ass out. A liberal dose of humble pie would certainly clear up your perception of a team player. Youre a legend in your own mind Garth, and a sorry one at that. Next time try taking one for the team if you want to know what real courage is all about.
Wow Garth I would have loved to be a fly on your shoulder yesterday, that must have been insane. Your competition for Conservative Nomination sounds like a slime ball, my dislike for Televangelists grows even more. Although you completly have to go your own way and make your own descision I think you would send HUGE shockwaves if you were to become a Green party member ( I’ve never been a big green supporter but put in the same situation I would jump at the chance, think of how much of a change it would be on the hill and in an election) it looks like from your blog that you wouldnt be extremly happy with being a liberal or NDP backbencher anyway. I’m excitedly waiting your decision.
You mention that they changed everything pretty quickly concerning your place in the Conservative party, I was kind of curious , did they barge into our office and do a full sweep of conservative documents too?I can easily picture Conservative hired repo men striping your office of everything. Good luck with everything, and keep with your values, had you been still in the Progressive Conservative party I would have hoped that they would have shown you much more respect…. damn I miss having the PC’s to step in between the libs and the Reformers.
Go Green Garth.
Best of luck, Garth, I’m nay a conservative, but you embrace the kind of guy I hope a conservative would be, and we need people like you around the balance things out. I hope all goes well! Going Green would be a great idea.
After years of listening to Stephen Harper sanctimoniously stating that he would change the politics in Ottawa; end secrecy; increase transparency; allow for more MP ‘freedom’ to disagree with the PMO; etc. We find Mr. Garth Turner being ejected for daring to disagree with SOME Conservative government positions. Same old, same old. Hypocrisy stinks no matter what political ideology you follow.
I would like to congratulate Mr. Turner for generally remaining above the fray and remaining positive, even though no one would fault him for running down Stephen Harper and the Conservative government.
Finally, it is sad that the Conservative Party tried to spin this as if Stephen Harper or the PMO had nothing to do with this decision. Really? Considering the amount of paranoid control that the PMO exercises and how Harper micro-manages, they must take us for morons.
Conservatives throughout the country should be crying in their beer for the betrayal of so many of their ideals. It reminds me of the worst excesses of the past governments….Liberals all.
ça sent le temps des élections à plein nez, et comme ça sent les poubelles rien qu’en masse en arrière du parlement par où aime rentrer le chef, yé plus que le temps que le truck passe pis ramasse ste marde à cheval venu de l’ouest, les dinosaures sont de retour, leur réinstinction est proche!
Lâche pas la patate mon Garth, on t’invitera toujours à manger dla poutine à Montréal même si tu risque de plus en plus à avoir de besoin d’un passeport pour venir nous voir
au Québec!
Garth,
Damn but I miss Halton Co. Seeing your video shot in Milton made me kind of home-sick.
The Greens might be a decent choice for you, but take a look at the Canadian Action Party. They might also be a good fit for you, and are completely unknown. I think that your efforts might be better spent in getting attention on the CAP, than the Greens. I don’t entirely trust the Greens.
Connie Fogal got my vote in the last Federal election. Canadian Action Party
Posting from Calgary
Garth you did your best to help the NEW government. I gave up on my old progressive conservatives last May, when I quit the party. In Alberta we know the anti-democratic coersive culture of Mr Harper. Maybe tonight you can grieve, one more time, for the old Tory party, it is dead and gone. May it rest in peace. I support your courage.
Great job Garth! Way to stick to your convictions. Something we don’t see enough of in a world when party discipline trumps the representation of ridings.
In addition, Garth ran under the CPC banner. Period. No ifs, ands, or buts about it. He knew what Harper was like, he knew what the party was like, he knew what he was in for. Then, moments after the minority victory, the slagging began.
Richard, you’re getting things ass-backwards. I was present at meeting where Garth was nominated as our candidate. I, and several hundred other fellow Conservatives voted for him to be our candidate. I can’t speak for the hundreds of others that elected him, but I went in with my eyes wide open. What Garth has been doing is of no surprise to me.
Garth has, from the beginning, told us that he worked for us. I believe he is.
It is a damn shame that the party has chosen to ignore the populist theme that Garth has manifested. Because, if we had 300 candidates like him, we would win the next election in a landslide.
I guess for now, it is just going to be the same old, same old.
I’m amazed by your support! One day I hope to discuss your aproach and philosophy in politics.
You will be accused by a few of grandstanding and needing to be in the spotlight, but I and most others watching all of this can see that the mistake was made by the new Conservative party and not by yourself.
You actually chose to stand up for something and was kicked out of the very party who used that as a slogan. You practice transparency and accountability and were secretly plotted against and given no valid reason for their actions. They cut and run on their international obligations under Kyoto and now they’ve done the same to you. Shame on them.
Once upon a time there was a party called the Progressive Conservatives. In an unfortunate turn of events they were taken over by another party, and ever since then it’s seemed that no matter how good things are going for them they never fail to grasp defeat from the jaws of victory.
I wish I could say well done Uncle Garth! You do not need to be a part of a ..go nowhere.. part.. The Harper Government is not with the times. Move on to greener pastures while the opportunity presents itself. Congratulations on standing up and being heard.
S. Turner – New Glasgow, N.S
I heard of your troubles today on CBC.
I appreciate that all of this must be very difficult for you. Especially the Conservative shills that are flaming you.
It is never a mistake to stand up for what you feel is right. I am sure the majority of Canadians are behind you regardless of their political stripes.
Bully for you for standing up to the bullies!
Re: my 10.19.06 3:25 am comment and your reply.
Thank you for replying. You didn’t lie in this case. Stephen Taylor retracted his misleading post. I offer my apology for not asking you first and taking his “proof” at face value.
Good luck in your future. I appreciate your committment to openness, but that shouldn’t include caucus meetings. Someone who can’t keep secrets isn’t fit for government where weighty matters are occasionally (but perhaps rarely) discussed. Resigning because you don’t agree with caucus confidentiality, however, would have been acceptable.
Your suspension – permanent or otherwise – from caucus was exactly the right thing.
Dear Mr.Garth Turner,
HOW IS MAFIOZY STEVEN HARPER ENJOYING FREE-LOADING INSIDE COMPLETELY STATE-FUNDED RENT-FREE HUGE ELEGANT MANSION OF 24 SU-SSEX DRIVE??.. IT IS HIGH TIME THAT CANADIANS TAKE AWAY THE CELEBRITY RIGHTS OF THESE MAFIOZY FREE-LOADIG POLITICIANS NOW SOON; BECAUSE EVEN THE LOW WAGE EARNERS HAVE TO PAY THE RENT FOR EVEN A CRAP-SHACK AND ALL EXPENSES!.. WE HAVE POVERTY-HOMELESSNESS-UNEMPLOYMENT AND THE VAST CLASS DIFFERENCES INSIDE TODAY’S CANADA; WHICH IS THE DIRECT CONSEQUENCE OF THE CRIMINAL SOCIAL AND ECONOMIC POLICIES OF THE MAFIOZY WAKO CONSERVATIVE POLITICIANS WHO COME TO POWER THROUGH THE MANIPULATION OF THE MAFIOZY BIG CORPORATE NEWSMEDIA IN CANADA!!.. SO WE PRAY TO SUPREME CREATOR TO KINDLY DEFEAT AND DECIMATE THE MAFIOZY UNDESERVING HARPER-REGIME SOON NOW, BEFORE THEY SWINDLE AWAY THE SURPLUS-BBILLIONS INTO THE DEEP POCKETS OF THE GREEDY MAFIOZY BIG BUSINESS ESTABLISHMENT IN CANADA WHICH IS THE REAL POWER UNDER THE MASQUERADE OF DEMOCRACY!!========
I hope you aren’t the last breath of the PC in our minority government. Harper made a bad move turfing you, one of the few voices of reason. It is a tough job being a conservative in this country. I think there is a genuine desire for small-c conservatives like you.
If a decapitated Liberal party without a head can be tied with the Alliance…I mean Conservative party, I’m sure the Harper government should start unscrewing the light bulbs and collecting pens from the office because they don’t have long. Canadians don’t appreciate a government that rules with an iron fist, especially when it is routing out people in sync with the Canadian public.
As for your candid nature, I wouldn’t expect anything less from an MP. Comments equating the caucus to a corporate enterprise and the view that you were selling secrets to the public are bogus and frankly disturbing. We live in a democracy and as far as I’m concerned there shouldn’t be anything that goes behind closed doors. CPAC should be in the caucus meetings, so Canadians can see what kind of debates our government is actually engaged in. We pay for you guys to sit around and talk, so why aren’t we privy to what you are saying? Steve’s hypocrisy is repugnant.
You are a good man Garth and it is sad to say that I don’t think you have a political home. You can’t go Lib, can’t go NDP, maybe the Green party? I suggest you sit as the one and only member of the old PC party. Bring it back! Let the freaks who are “right†off the map have their Alliance back.
It is either that or all the small-c’s are going to be voting Liberal. Harper isn’t giving us what we hoped for.
Solidarity!
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