Dozen Town Hall meeting dates released
for Western Canada ‘Lost Tory Tour’
More than a dozen public Town Hall meetings in ten Western Canadian cities have been called to let voters speak, and to hear MP Garth Turner. The meetings form the central part of “The Lost Tory Tour†Turner is on during the first two weeks of September, and will take place in Winnipeg, LaBroquerie, Regina, Kelowna, Vancouver, Abbotsford, Victoria, Calgary, Lethbridge and Edmonton.
All of the events have been organized by local residents, and will be staged at no cost to taxpayers. Garth Turner is scheduled to speak on the topic of “What every investor and homeowner should know,†and will deal with the current economic and financial reality faced by Canadian families.
Town Halls will take place in some locations where voters have had little, if any, opportunity to interact directly with an MP. “Given some of the recent decisions of the federal government,†Turner says, “such as raising income tax, reversing course on income trusts, vastly increasing government spending or letting mortgage rates rise, it’s only responsible to let folks speak directly to a member of the House of Commons.â€
Turner, elected as a Conservative in January of 2006, was expelled from the Stephen Harper caucus last October. After sitting as an independent MP for four months, he joined the federal Liberal caucus in February, 2007. Turner has been described as a lifelong Conservative, having been twice elected as an MP, and having served as a cabinet minister and run for the leadership of the Progressive Conservative party of Canada. In addition, he’s been a best-selling personal finance author, broadcaster, columnist and lecturer.
“The fact these meetings are even taking place is significant,†Turner says. “I would not be on this trip if I’d not been invited by people living in these communities. By and large, they have responded to my digital democracy initiative, and asked me through my blog to come and meet them, and their neighbours, in person. It is a great honour to do so
“It’s also interesting to note a tour like this would never take place,†Turner said, “were I still a member of Mr. Harper’s caucus. Stephane Dion believes, as I do, that an MP’s place is among the people, not being cloistered and controlled in Ottawa.â€
Schedule of confirmed Town Hall meetings,
September 4-13, 2007.
LaBroquerie, Man, Sept 4
3 pm LaBroquerie Hotel
Winnipeg, Sept 4
7 pm Crescent Wood Centre
1170 Corydon Ave.
Regina, Sept 5
7 pm Travel Lodge
4177 Albert Street
Victoria, Sept 6
7 pm Monterey Centre
1442 Monterey Ave.
Vancouver, Sept 8
10 am Holiday Inn
700 Old Lillooet Rd.
Abbotsford, Sept 9
2 pm Matsqui Auditorium
32315 South Fraser Way
Kelowna, Sept 10
2 pm Holiday Park Resort
415 Commonwealth Rd.
Kelowna, Sept 10
7 pm Mission Activity Centre
4398 Hobson Rd.
Edmonton, Sept 11
2 pm Stanley Milner Library
7 Sir W. Churchill SW
Edmonton, Sept 11
7 pm Old Timer’s Cabin
9430 Scona Rd.
Calgary, Sept 12
2:30 pm Engineered Air Theatre
205 8th Ave.E.
Calgary, Sept 12
7 pm Ross Glen Hall, Mt. Royal Col.
4845 Mt. Royal Gate SW
Lethbridge, Sept 13
7 pm Royal Cdn Legion
324 Mayor Magrath Dr.S.
For more information
Esther Shaye (905) 693-0166
esther@garth.ca
63 comments ↓
Fair question: Will you be explaining to attendees how your party intends to pay for the $15 billion a year state run institutionalized unionized day care that you advocate in the document found at:
http://www.liberal.ca/pdf/docs/PinkBook_ENG.pdf
“To fully meet the needs of working women and young families, a new Liberal government needs, as a long term goal, to devote federal financial support equivalent to one per cent of Gross Domestic Product (GDP) to early learning and child care. This is the target
established by the OECD (Organization for Economic Co-operation and Development) in its report entitled Starting Strong II.”
Good luck Garth, how does that good old “Joe Friday” line go just the facts. If you have done your homework and which I am sure you have most questions are a repeat of what you & your professional staff have researched. For those who plan to attend for reasons other than honest public debate please be sure to smile into the camera’s so we can all see who you are. I do know how it will go Garth, but this I am quite sure of, you will stand tall and face the person who has asked the question in professional manner, not hide or check a play book for the text book answer or quote that number 13 years into an answer that nothing to do with subject has all
Candaians have heard since the day PMSH sneeked in through the back door on his first day to work. hmmm and y’all think we do no remember eh>
Dropped the Duncan stopover?
Nope. Location yet to be confirmed. — Garth
Hey Garth, good luck on your tour. Can I assume that you’ll continue to post entries, etc., while you are on the road?
Also, I’m glad that M Dion supports you on this venture. He seems to understand the value that an autonomous MP brings to a political party. Being nurturing and supportive of colleagues is far more constructive than being authoritarian and oppresive.
All the best,
-R
I do know how it will go Garth, but this I am quite sure of, you will stand tall and face the person who has asked the question in professional manner, not hide or check a play book for the text book answer or quote that number 13 years into an answer that nothing to do with subject has all
Candaians have heard since the day PMSH sneeked in through the back door on his first day to work. hmmm and y’all think we do no remember eh>
By David Bakody on 08.27.07 12:38 pm
Your memory is good until it comes to Ms Smith and when her picture was floating around the internet three years plus ago. I think the 13 year label comes into play then. what is sauce for the goose is not always sauce for the gander when we deal with lieberals. Just like the Quebeckers, Je me souviens. How about you David?
Looking forward to your Lethbridge meeting and hoping for a great turnout.
Your memory is good until it comes to Ms Smith and when her picture was floating around the internet three years plus ago. I think the 13 year label comes into play then. what is sauce for the goose is not always sauce for the gander when we deal with lieberals. Just like the Quebeckers, Je me souviens. How about you David?
By THE SHADOW KNOWS on 08.27.07 1:26 pm
Ah but the Shadow can’t tell an apple from an orange! The CPC are using the “13 years” slogan mainly to attack Mr. Dion who was not there for “13 years”, and Environment Minister only under Paul Martin. They are accusing Mr. Dion of something he was not a party to! Yes, the Liberals didn’t get it done, but that was not Mr. Dion.
Ms. Smith did the deed with the Chain of Office. Now if she had hidden the deed in the Shadows, no one would have known. It may have been 3 years ago, but its on the record.
Are those blue shades I see you wearing, or is it a welding visor?
Mr. Turner, I have a question for you. When you were an MP in Mulroney’s government, was he oppressive and controlling as you say Harper is?
You jest. — Garth
Garth – can you confirm that there are a large number of special interest Income Trust lobbyists who are the “individual citizens” who are promoting and sponsoring your tour?
Of course not. There are no sponsors. People steamed up over the income trust betrayal are interested in the town halls, and I believe CAITI is letting its membership know of the dates. It is welcome to do to, as is anyone else. — Garth
You jest. — Garth
By Greg on 08.27.07 1:55 pm
Moi?
Every pack come with 2 Jokers.
Are those blue shades I see you wearing, or is it a welding visor?
By James – Chatham on 08.27.07 1:50 pm
Would you know the difference between blue shades and a welding visor? Do you even know what day of the week this is? BTW, did you find your rose coloured glasses yet? Have you been into the sauce this early in the day? You admitted the lieberal party didn’t get it done and Dion was there all this time so what does that tell you? It tells me lots, one is that Dion is not a leader and will never be Prime Minister of this country, maybe France but not Canada. Have a good day James.
Re: Income Trusts – recent news has it that Income Trusts are amongst the strongest performers in the stock market and will continue to be until the changes take place in 2011 – giving investors excellent returns.
Don’t you think that still bashing the IT decision for the good of the country as a whole is really just a straw dog for political partisan purposes anymore?
Don’t you also think that voters respect a government that makes a decision, such as the IT one, based on what is best for the country rather than what is popular or politically gains them votes? The Conservatives could have buckled under your kind of special interest group’s pressures like the Liberals did for political gain. Instead they are taking their lumps from the likes of you and your friends for doing the right thing.
Good for you Garth…. Let The Word Go Forth.
At least Herr Harpler cannot send you to The Russian Front for actually speaking to Canadian citizens… without some PMSH/PMO ‘How to act, Lie, and not say anything just like Question Period handbook’.
Man Garth, I really wish I could be tripp’in the rift with you to all these places. To be there and see these meeting live would be something,… I still remember your Eco Summit last March.
Are those blue shades I see you wearing, or is it a welding visor?
By James – Chatham on 08.27.07 1:50 pm
By THE SHADOW KNOWS on 08.27.07 2:58 pm
Good afternoon, James — it is not worth all the mental and physical energy required to become involved with a deranged right-wing shazzball.
The Peter Principle applies to Shadow — people generally gravitate to their own level of incompetence!
Enjoy a great day!
Lorraine says:Income Trusts – recent news has it that Income Trusts are amongst the strongest performers in the stock market and will continue to be until the changes take place in 2011 – giving investors excellent returns.
Not true Lorraine.
TSX vs RTCM and RTEN indexes
RTEN – Energy trust index is ~18% lower as a result of the Harper Trust Flip-flop
RTCM – Income trust index is ~9% lower.
Try looking beyond the press release and you’ll see the damage is still there.
Thanks Garth for paying attention to this issue.
Shadow you semm to forget that PMSH was in opposition when Mr Dion was trying to “get the job done” and he that is Mr Harper was screaming back then about so called GHG’s Many things that the liberals would like to have done were blocked by your leader.
As a former dyed-in-the-wool Conservative I’m looking forward to your Calgary meeting, as are most employees and investors in the Oil & Gas community. The Conservative lie cost many of us large amounts of capital and future income.
Stand tall and tell us exactly what you’re going to do about the income trust disaster if and when we elect your party to replace Steve ‘the lyin king’ Harper and his ilk.
The Liberal Party future in the West depends on a clear and unequivocal answer.
Post it here!
Lorraine
That is what Harper did,’ buckle to special interest groups, namely corporate Canada. Take any I.T. that was a corp before they swithced and compare the amount of tax they paid to how much the I.T. investors paid and you will see the tax leakage claim is a scam. Flathead line about taxes being shifed to individual taxpayers, he means the extra tax the I.T. investor pays not tax payers aws a whole. How muc dis your taxes go up from the growth of the I.Ts? Like most Canadians if they are not directly kicked in the teeth it is no big deal. I voted for Harper, He lied to us and he lied about why he lied to us.
Hi Greg On,
Mr. TurnerMP was in Kim Cambells Coucus
(sp??).(I made the same error).
Anyone going to a town hall should ask,
(not right off) if Mr. TurnerMP could decribe the differance between PMSH coccus (sp?) and the other government he was in.
You will be inlightened, maybe shocked.
Remember, from star trek, ‘resistance is not futile’.
The Corporate run media doesn’t always tell the masses what we should really know!.
This jellybean dictator PMSH and his Gang need to get run out of town soon,
while we still have a Canada to run them out of.
I couldn’t stand Mulroney and I certainly was angry about how he ran the country and ran up debts, etc., but fair is fair and I’ve read and heard that one of Mulroney’s assets was that he cared and listened to his cabinet and handled them very well. It hurts me to have to say it, but fact is fact.
Looks like the “Shadow Knows” polished off his 40 ouncer doesn’t it? All he wants to do is argue and attack.
Lorraine
Don’t you also think that voters respect a government that makes a decision, such as the IT one, based on what is best for the country rather than what is popular or politically gains them votes?
Some do, some don’t. However your question is irrelevant, the mendaciously labeled “Tax Fairness Plan” is bad for the country. It is demonstrably unfair, and the huge preponderance of evidence is that it will reduce tax collections rather than increase them. If the Tories really believed it was best for the country they are hopelessly incompetent, and if they didn’t believe so they are liars.
The Conservatives could have buckled under your kind of special interest group’s pressures like the Liberals did for political gain.
What BS! The Liberals invited submissions before acting, and when they did act they actually made the tax system more equitable. Unlike the Tories they really did introduce tax fairness.
Instead they are taking their lumps from the likes of you and your friends for doing the right thing.
Again, they are taking their lumps for doing the wrong thing. But they are indeed taking their lumps. Like many, I am a former supporter who now hates them with a passion.
Regards,
EhBC
Mr. Dion who was not there for “13 yearsâ€, and Environment Minister only under Paul Martin.
By David Bakody on 08.27.07 12:38 pm
Well David, Mr. Dion came in January 1996 (Years of Service: 4173 Days (11 years, 5 months, 3 days)). He was in cabinet (Jean Chretien’s and Paul Martin’s) during this time.
Minister of the Environment 2004.07.20 – 2006.02.05
Minister of Intergovernmental Affairs 1996.01.25 – 2003.12.11
President of the Queen’s Privy Council 1996.01.25 – 2003.12.11
So tell me what was he doing in cabinet all that time – picking his nose? But, seriously, if the environment was his concern, why didn’t he push when he was cabinet?
The same guy who cost Income Trust investors $35 Billion Dollars in lost market value is ‘watching the current credit crunch issue very closely’
Good on you Jim. Do you even understand the issue? Your problem Jim is your lack of credibility. IE You don’t have any.
So go away Jim. Your assurances mean nothing.
Canada’s Flaherty Says He’s Still Monitoring Financial Markets
Even your own party is easing you out. Please go quickly.
According to the Hill Times article “Cabinet committee agendas under tight control of PMO, PCO, say some” :
The source said that Mr. Flaherty was influential as a chair because he has “independent thought.” The source said there have been several occasions in which Ian Brodie, Prime Minister Stephen Harper’s (Calgary Southwest, Alta.) chief of staff, rebuked Mr. Flaherty for holding “wild and crazy debates” at the economic Cabinet committee.
Independent thought… Is that government-speak for incompetent, incoherent thought?
Just wondering.
By THE SHADOW KNOWS on 08.27.07 1:26 pm
If the Shadow knows anything he may also kmow the Naked Turth about the facts, it must be clear as enough time has passed with no rebutle by Ms. or Mr, Smith or your co-worker Catherine for which I give her credit. Who ever you really are please buy a bus ticket and attend one, two or three of the Town Hall’s, the fact is you will be with good honest hard working Canadains that want to listen and are prepaired to stand in front of their peers state there full name and where they live look Mr. Turner in the eye and ask a question. I will buy you a coffee if at any point Garth does not answer the question (on topic) in a forthright and honsest manner with the facts. I also will tell you I will throw in a snack at Tim’s is anyone has a question that is on topic and he does not have the answer it will not change the subject but take that persons name and address and get back to him or have it at the next stop if possible. NOW Listen MR, Shadow, is that not why we stand in line and tell our children to take time to vote and why we pay them well with full benifits and a good pension plan to do, hide from the public/ OR Mr, Shadwow do we as you suggest have our PM treat his MP’s as an extention of his personal play book and right arm, never allowed to gain experience or listen to the concerns of not only his area’s of responsibilty but Canadians. I hope Mr. Shadow I truly hope that PMSH style of leadership has not gripped your family, it was never mine and my family was/is always allowed to speak up and encouraged to bring their concerns, fears and yes aspirations to either me or their wise mother and grandmother as I was taught and for that I am greatful and proud to be David Bakody. You will always remain a shadow, that is your choice, good luck in your quest to live in the Shadows of darkness.
Anyone for a jaunt to jolly old England? I read a few weeks ago that although something like 2.5 million people came in to the UK over the last five years, now there are 4,000 Brits leaving every week!
And the wheel keeps turning and turning . . .
http://www.telegraph.co.uk/news/main.jhtml;jsessionid=XRYYN2EHXBASNQFIQMFSFFWAVCBQ0IV0?xml=/news/2007/08/27/ndna127.xml
are those blue shades I see you wearing, or is it a welding visor?
By James – Chatham on 08.27.07 1:50 pm
By THE SHADOW KNOWS on 08.27.07 2:58 pm
Good afternoon, James — it is not worth all the mental and physical energy required to become involved with a deranged right-wing shazzball.
The Peter Principle applies to Shadow — people generally gravitate to their own level of incompetence!
Enjoy a great day!
By Charles Oxley on 08.27.07 3:39 pm
It takes one to know one Oxee. Now just what is your problem? Are you out of sorts with me again? I’m concerned about you. Maybe you should join up with Finky over on the Daily KOS website. With all those left wing crack pots, you should fit in very well darling.
I see a pattern here Oxey. I hear the BC weed is pretty good stuff, appears like you have been partaking today. Watch it, tut, tut. I’m sorry to hear you are having a tough time with your energy, mentally and physical. That weed will do it to you every time.
Oh BTW you can talk directly to me lover boy, you don’t have to go through a third party. Your “better half” won’t know you are sneaking around. Wink, wink, nod, nod. Have a goooooood evening sweetieeeee pie. Oh, something else, what is a shazzball? Couldn’t find it in the dictionary, hope you aren’t calling me bad names again sweetheart.
Didn’t Al Gore say something about “those big, nasty gas-guzzling SUVs?”
We’re only here for short time, and I’m having one helluva of a good time!
http://www.geologytimes.com/Research/Strong_Evidence_Points_to_Earths_Proximity_to_Sun_as_Ice_Age_Trigger.asp
Lorraine,
Gosh, you’ve been misinformed or you wish to be misleading. But even if you were correct (which you are not), you’d miss a most important point. Flaherty’s falsehoods and deceptions are intended to scare seniors out of their income trusts investment so that the big government pension funds can takeover the trusts. After 2010, many seniors will be forced to abandon diversified and reliable sources of income. Many will have their income cut in half. But seniors are not here for a long time.
As I read at CAITI today, the people most hurt are by Flaherty are 40-something who will loose a reliable type of higher-yield investments. Younger people will be forced to work longer and save more before they retire. I trust and hope that you are not one of them.
. . . Oh, something else, what is a shazzball? . . .
By THE SHADOW KNOWS on 08.27.07 6:53 pm
Damn you really are cute when you’re imploding with delight!
Forgotten Mork and Mindy from the 1970s already? Robin Williams (Mork) went on to bigger and better things, not sure of Mindy though.
Nevertheless, enjoy your day as well Shadow, as you no doubt will. I’m all yours, chocolate hazelnut spread!
I, Charlesius
I just checked National Newswatch and the Lost Tory Tour is now the lead story. MP’s visit other ridings all the time. Why is everyone making such a big deal of this? Garth didn’t even use ANY of his travel points last year, which of course he lost since it’s use ‘em or lose ‘em. So this year he decided to put them to good use and everyone is going ballistic. Garth is a great speaker and really knows how to engage attendees in civilized dialogue. Garth has a skill and a talent that he is sharing with his fellow Canadians to make our country a better place, irrelevant of your political stripe. So watch and learn.
THE SHADOW KNOWS on 08.27.07 1:26 pm
If the Shadow knows anything he may also kmow the Naked Turth about the facts, it must be clear as enough time has passed with no rebutle by Ms. or Mr, Smith or your co-worker Catherine for which I give her credit. Who ever you really are please buy a bus ticket and attend one, two or three of the Town Hall’s, the fact is you will be with good honest hard working Canadains that want to listen and are prepaired to stand in front of their peers state there full name and where they live look Mr. Turner in the eye and ask a question. I will buy you a coffee if at any point Garth does not answer the question (on topic) in a forthright and honsest manner with the facts. I also will tell you I will throw in a snack at Tim’s is anyone has a question that is on topic and he does not have the answer it will not change the subject but take that persons name and address and get back to him or have it at the next stop if possible. NOW Listen MR, Shadow, is that not why we stand in line and tell our children to take time to vote and why we pay them well with full benifits and a good pension plan to do, hide from the public/ OR Mr, Shadwow do we as you suggest have our PM treat his MP’s as an extention of his personal play book and right arm, never allowed to gain experience or listen to the concerns of not only his area’s of responsibilty but Canadians. I hope Mr. Shadow I truly hope that PMSH style of leadership has not gripped your family, it was never mine and my family was/is always allowed to speak up and encouraged to bring their concerns, fears and yes aspirations to either me or their wise mother and grandmother as I was taught and for that I am greatful and proud to be David Bakody. You will always remain a shadow, that is your choice, good luck in your quest to live in the Shadows of darkness.
By David Bakody on 08.27.07 5:44 pm
Boy aren’t we a little testy this evening? Invitation not accepted.
I still feel Mr Turner was out of line with the picture of Ms Smith. Just because she didn’t rebutt it doesn’t mean all is okay
You don’t have any idea what Mr Harper’s style of leadership is, it is only hearsay especially from someone that was booted out of Harper’s government. I think Mr Turner rightly deserved what he got and is now on a tear to run down anything the Prime Minister does. With all the hate it will eventually be his down fall.
I say this sincerely David, I’m happy for you that you have a big happy family as I do. That is what we should all aspire to. Apparently you have different ideas and views than I do but that is okay. What a dull world it would be if we all thought and lived the same way. I am The Shadow Knows and extremely proud of it.
Good luck in your quest living as David Bakody.
Why does Harper and his conservative party hate natives?
BY
Carol Goar
Canada is one of seven countries blocking the quest for a universal declaration on the rights of indigenous peoples. The other holdouts are Colombia, Guyana, Suriname, Russia, Australia and New Zealand.
Most members of the United Nations would like to see the charter, which has been under discussion for 20 years, adopted by the General Assembly at its fall session.
Sixty-seven states are co-sponsoring it. The UN Human Rights Council approved it last summer (over Canada’s objections). Former foreign affairs minister Lloyd Axworthy calls it a test of “Canada’s influence as a credible and influential voice for the protection of human rights.”
As the vote approaches, native and human rights groups are appealing to Ottawa not to thwart the declaration. They’ve sent an open letter to Prime Minister Stephen Harper urging him to uphold the rights of the world’s most marginalized and vulnerable people.
“Canada must abandon its campaign against the declaration before further harm is done to the safety and well-being of indigenous peoples worldwide and to Canada’s reputation as a principled defender of human rights,” the signatories say. They include Phil Fontaine, national chief of the Assembly of First Nations; Beverly Jacobs, president of the Native Women’s Association of Canada; Alex Neve, secretary-general of Amnesty International Canada; Ed Bianchi, aboriginal rights co-ordinator for a church consortium called KAIROS and a number of regional chiefs.
The government’s position is that the declaration is too vague to be effective.
It also maintains that some of its provisions could be interpreted in ways that are inconsistent with Canada’s Charter of Rights and Freedoms.
The Department of Indian and Northern Affairs cites six specific concerns:
The declaration might be used to support aboriginal claims to territories already ceded by treaty.
It might interfere with Canada’s approach to settling land claims, which balances the rights of aboriginal peoples against the interests of other Canadians.
It might be interpreted to give aboriginal peoples a veto over defence activities.
It confers on indigenous people a right to conserve and protect the environment, which is not recognized in international law.
It provides no guidance about the financing of aboriginal self-government.
And it fails to state clearly that federal and provincial laws are paramount on matters of overriding national importance.
This is nonsense, Axworthy says. International human rights declarations have never been legally binding. Moreover, this one has an explicit clause – included at Canada’s insistence – stating that it must be interpreted in accordance with existing domestic laws.
Until recently, Canada was one of the leaders in rallying support for the declaration.
In the early years of the negotiations, some states wanted nothing to do with it, fearing it would give indigenous peoples rights and powers that would undermine their authority and drain their budgets.
Canada worked tirelessly to bring these countries on board, explaining and defending the concept of aboriginal self-determination. Craig Benjamin of Amnesty International sat in on some of those talks. “Canada was instrumental in breaking the deadlock between state governments and indigenous peoples. We acknowledged the right to self-government. We said we don’t find it threatening.”
Shortly after Prime Minister Stephen Harper was elected, Canada’s stance changed.
It voted against the declaration – with Russia – at the UN Human Rights Council on June 29, 2006. It is now lobbying other countries to join its call for a re-negotiation of all the substantive provisions of the document. So far, it has found six allies. Several African countries are wavering.
“We have grave concerns that Canada is encouraging states with appalling records on human rights to take positions against the recognition and protection of indigenous people’s human rights,” the petitioners say in their public letter to Harper.
There is still time for Canada to change course.
For more than a century, we have failed our original citizens abysmally. We have ignored their needs and stunted their development.
The least we can do now is offer them the tools to do better.
I am one of the many voters in western Canada whom were affected by the Income Trust Halloween Party the cons decided to throw. I actually thought they were kidding; then I remembered, this is halloween, not April fools day…Neverthe less, we were fooled and lied to.
Way to go Garth. Regina houses a Ralph Goodale whom the cons and Zacaredelli tried in vane to destroy his reputation with the Income Trust scandal.
What went wrong for the cons to feel so vendictive that they would target us meagre senior citizen taxpayers?
Shadow says “you don’t know Harper’s style of leadership”. After 20 months of Steve-we all know his style of leadership–keep un-elected strategists ensconced in the PMO-let unelected strategists plot party course and policy. Elected M.P.’s are wall-paper-only to be seen and not heard.
The one’s that do speak out of turn are ousted or demoted.
And Shadow embraces Harper’s style-lock-step, lock-step.
Anybody doubt that Garth’s western tour is a warmup for the coming election the end of this year, and that Dion will try to follow in Garth’s footsteps in a triumphant foray out West?
Dion has unequivocally stated that he will vote non-confidence in any next Throne Speech if the government does not accept and implement Bill C-288, the Liberal “Kyoto” legislation.
Duceppe has also stated he will vote non-confidence in the Harper government if they do not specify that Canadian soldiers will by out of Afghanistan by February 2009.
Dion and Duceppe have drawn a line in the sand and dare Harper to step over it. Election this year, and Garth’s tour is just a preamble to Dion’s march out West. It’s all set up folks !!
Oh, no. My cover’s blown. — Garth
Garth,
Very much looking forward to Sept 8th Town Hall in North Vancouver. Hoping too that it doesn’t rain:) We are famous for our rain.
To back up a little bit to Sharon Smith, pod person mp wannabe. She of the chain mail jewelery. I knew she wasn’t the only story of this happening but I couldn’t remember the details.
A bit of digging and I found those who did. Our very busy unelected, unwanted, unaccountable Michael Fortier has been busy pulling the same scam since last spring.
His (ahem) website:
http://www.michaelfortier.com/EN/4913/53534
Red Tory, who refreshed my memory (april 8):
http://redtory.blogspot.com/2007/04/whos-flogging-fortier.html
(april 12) http://redtory.blogspot.com/2007/04/fortier-mockery-of-democracy.html
So he has set up two offices up in the riding of Vaudreuil-Soulanges which is held by Bloc member Meili Faille.
From his site: “I wish to properly represent the citizens of Vaudreuil-Soulanges in the House of Commons and to do so I made a commitment to be a thorough deputy. This website is conceived to respond to their needs and help them to better know my work and me. That is why we created this new site and I hope you enjoy itâ€, concludes the Minister.
Where else is this happening, under the radar, so to speak. Someone said it was just NDP ridings, but no, it’s Bloc too. CRAP_Cons will subvert democracy anywhere they think they can get away with it.
Why has Smith and Fortier not been splashed across the media? The sale of the buildings caused a phht. The SPP a weekend flurry of excitement. Sad. Harper is going to try to steal the election ’cause his buddy the Shrub did it so why no him. He gets away with most everything else.
A football player who ran dog fights and found jesus is bigger news.
What the hell is going on anyway?
Geo
You admitted the lieberal party didn’t get it done and Dion was there all this time so what does that tell you? – By THE SHADOW KNOWS on 08.27.07 2:58 pm
Actually, its Tuesday, about 7:40am, no sauce and my glasses (political) I know to be tinted slightly red with no-line shades of blue and orange. That’s why I support no particular party.
Its obvious yours are of the welding type. As I was pefectly clear. The Liberal’s did not get it done, maybe because they were fixing Mulroney’s mess, maybe because Kyoto happened after 1993, maybe because under Paul Martin’s minority, Stephen Harper blocked their every move. Bottom line, the Liberal’s didn’t get it done.
I also made it perfectly clear that Mr. Dion was not there as of 1993 and certainly was not Minister of the Environment until Paul Martin was PM.
Your logic is apples are fruit, oranges are fruit therefore all apples are oranges. That is, Liberals didn’t get it done, Mr. Dion is a Liberal, therefore Mr. Dion didn’t get it done. You’re conveniently, as most with blue tinted glasses do on this issue, forget the time line and who was in opposition.
Garth, you must be an intimidating ‘force’ to the Harperites to have so many neoCons on your blog ranting about your Western tour…and you haven’t even hit the trail yet! LMAO!!!
I believe people out West will respond favourably to your open communication about key issues. I’m sure many of them are also tired of neoCon babble and continual attempts to obscure and twist the facts concerning Harper’s record in office.
I’ve travelled out West for many years and have met many, many people who are not ‘voting robots’. They care about issues and take time to make a consider decision when they vote. Those are the folks that will show up at your town halls…. along with some rabid neoCon trouble makers no doubt. I’m sure your direct approach will win the day.
Keep up the fight Garth! Your efforts remind us all about the fundamentals of democracy and the importance of elected officials actually serving their constituents and being accountable to the public at large.
A football player who ran dog fights and found jesus is bigger news.
What the hell is going on anyway?
Geo
By Georgine on 08.28.07 12:20 am
Excellent question. What are the values of the MSM today? Some meaningless pro athelete gets top coverage when the ones who really affect our lives slip under the rocks and hide in the shadows.
I caught his BS apology on the news last night. What a POS. This is the kind of animal our children have as a role model?
What totally FUBARed society we have become, eh?
Then they headline the loser developer as well. The news has become the National Enquirer too much of the time worrying about some dysfunctional celeb’s personal problems. Like William Shatner said ‘Get a life!’ PEOPLE.
We can also do with a lot less of the non-essential car crash and stupid idiot news. We need to know what our goobernment is upto, planning, slipping past us. Things we can actually do something about before the fact. We also need some exemplar Good News to show we still are functioning as a society, not just a bunch of arseholes running around committing crimes and idiotic acts.
I am off to the real world for the rest of today. Good to see you posting again Georgine.
Rather odd isn’t it that an unelected Senator and Minister of Public Works should have what superficially appears to be an official government website for a riding that he does not represent but will be running in at some time in the future. Is this site being paid for by taxpayers or by the Conservative Party?
By Georgine on 08.28.07 12:20 am
Mr. Fortier claims;
the expenses involved in opening up and staffing his two new offices and a website, Fortier said all expenses involved are paid for by the Conservative Party Vaudreuil-Soulanges riding association.
I would say show me, don’t tell me..
Fortier said;
“I’m the Minister of the crown, I’m in the government and I know she doesn’t recognize this because she’ll never be in the government,†he said.
As Red Tory mentions, “such a class act”. Particularly coming from someone with such a base of support from the electorate.
Why didn’t he just say, “let them eat cake.”
Sad though, when we have to defend a separatist MP’s Canadian democratic rights.
Sigh…The things we must do.
Better wear you hip-waders when you get to Calgary Garth…. your going to need them to move through the crap we’re going to throw at you.
We might be money grubbing, environmental demons to you, but we know lying, two-faced, self-promoting, Snake Oil Salesman when we see one, and anyone who’d forsake his dignity to run for a corrupt organization like the Liberals, is prime manure slinging target practice.
I’ll be sure to catch it all on Video. Hate to see you mis-quote any questions you might get from the audience Garth… after all, we know how much you like deny your own words.
Need to make sure you don’t let yourself get taken out of context this time.
Next time Dion should send someone with an ounce of credibility…
I love the smell of faux outrage in the morning. — Garth
Anybody doubt that Garth’s western tour is a warmup for the coming election the end of this year, and that Dion will try to follow in Garth’s footsteps in a triumphant foray out West?
Dion has unequivocally stated that he will vote non-confidence in any next Throne Speech if the government does not accept and implement Bill C-288, the Liberal “Kyoto†legislation.
Duceppe has also stated he will vote non-confidence in the Harper government if they do not specify that Canadian soldiers will by out of Afghanistan by February 2009.
Dion and Duceppe have drawn a line in the sand and dare Harper to step over it. Election this year, and Garth’s tour is just a preamble to Dion’s march out West. It’s all set up folks !!
Oh, no. My cover’s blown. — Garth
By Myron on 08.27.07 10:35 pm
GARTH … Please openly announce that you are visiting Western Canada with the intention of promoting the Liberal party in the next election.
Then tell us why Dion isn’t with you to validate your pitch to Westerners. Also tell us why there are no western Liberals able to hold the Liberal Town Hall meetings, and that you an easterner must come down to tell us why we should vote Liberal.
Perhaps you could include a personal message from Dion supporting you efforts to swing votes to the Liberals, after all politics is now a business with you Liberals.
I know you’re just gonna love me. — Garth
We might be money grubbing, environmental demons to you, but we know lying, two-faced, self-promoting, Snake Oil Salesman when we see one, and anyone who’d forsake his dignity to run for a corrupt organization like the Liberals, is prime manure slinging target practice.
By Joe Calgary on 08.28.07 10:16 am
I was just wondering what happened to the sniffers when old Brian the Blarney slinger was out and about?
Cold epidemic? I tant mell nutink!
Dropped the Duncan stopover?
Nope. Location yet to be confirmed. — Garth
By Kevin M on 08.27.07 12:48 pm
Thank you, thank you, thank you.
As I do not like to drive for Hours and hours. (Over 2.5) to a venue in Victoria. I look forward to seeing you in Duncan. (1.1 hour from the Comox Valley (AKA Heaven on Earth))
PS. what do you think of expanding and putting teeth into a STRONG Auditor General’s office? I would like to discuss this with you if time permits.
I hope Mr. Shadow I truly hope that PMSH style of leadership has not gripped your family, it was never mine and my family was/is always allowed to speak up and encouraged to bring their concerns, fears and yes aspirations to either me or their wise mother and grandmother as I was taught and for that I am greatful and proud to be David Bakody. You will always remain a shadow, that is your choice, good luck in your quest to live in the Shadows of darkness.
By David Bakody on 08.27.07 5:44 pm
Here, Here!
Could not have said it better.
PS. what do you think of expanding and putting teeth into a STRONG Auditor General’s office?
By A.R.Wainwright on 08.28.07 1:35 pm
You mean the greatest fear of them all to the old guard political parties?
I am The Shadow Knows and extremely proud of it.
Good luck in your quest living as David Bakody.
By THE SHADOW KNOWS on 08.27.07 8:56 pm
As are all sneaky under handed types.
Do not most criminals and cowards work in the shadows and night???
Your logic is apples are fruit, oranges are fruit therefore all apples are oranges. That is, Liberals didn’t get it done, Mr. Dion is a Liberal, therefore Mr. Dion didn’t get it done. You’re conveniently, as most with blue tinted glasses do on this issue, forget the time line and who was in opposition.
By James – Chatham on 08.28.07 7:25 am
They also ALWAYS for get to read or ever mention the Book “On the Take”. (could also be titled” The Mulrony years”?
PS. what do you think of expanding and putting teeth into a STRONG Auditor General’s office?
By A.R.Wainwright on 08.28.07 1:35 pm
You mean the greatest fear of them all to the old guard political parties?
By Greg on 08.28.07 1:53 pm
YES!
The Globe & Mail asks “Why is Harper treading water?â€
Over the past 19 months, it has emerged as the great mystery of Canadian politics. In January, 2006, portrayed by his opponents as a radical conservative who would tear apart the country’s social fabric, Stephen Harper led his Conservatives to power with 36 per cent of the vote. Since then, he has run a generally moderate and competent government. While his party has had its missteps, notably in its handling of the Afghanistan mission, it has operated nearly scandal-free. The economy is strong, with the unemployment rate at its lowest level in 33 years. And the Tories have faced one of the weakest oppositions in memory as the once-mighty Liberals have struggled to find their footing under new leader Stéphane Dion.
========================================
This op-ed is nonsense. 64% of Canadians, nearly 2 out of 3 people, did not vote for Harper for the simple reason that he is not trustworthy. Never has be, never will be.
The G&M says “generally moderate and competent government.†Duh? Flaherty is the worst Finance Minister to hold office in 1000 years. It will be hundreds of years before another even comes close to his incompetence. O’Connor in Defence? Ambrose and Baird in Environment? Stock in Public Sanctimony? They are far from competent. They are: Stephen Harper and his 124 Attack-Pumpkins.
Operated nearly scandal-free!!??? That’s a HOWLER. There’s a long and winding trail of broken promises, falsehoods, cover-ups, duplicity and bullying legislation through the House of Comedy. Parliament has become a disgusting piece of acrimony. The sale of $1.6 billion of national assets in a secret deal is an outrage against good governance. “Oh but your Honor, those nasty Banks made us Tory Goody Two-Shoes hide the agreement from the witless Canadians. Please, your Honor, don’t be mean to us Tory Goody Two-Shoes.â€
The only truth in the claptrap from the Globe is the statement about weak opposition. Everything else about the Tories is fantasy.
As are all sneaky under handed types.
Do not most criminals and cowards work in the shadows and night???
By A.R.Wainwright on 08.28.07 1:58 pm
Sticks and stones will break your bones.
Can’t wait for the evening shadows, watch out Wainwright, whoever you are.
“Vancouver, Sept 8
10 am Holiday Inn
700 Old Lillooet Rd.”
Garth, who did the bookings for you? This is not in Vancouver. It’s in North Vancouver (and a really out-of-the-way corner of it, at that), which is a whole different city. And impossible for me to get to for a 10 am start from where I am. Vancouver would have been possible…barely…but not North Van.
Abbotsford doesn’t work for me, either. No transit links.
Too bad, really. I was looking forward to coming to the meeting. Next time you’re coming out this way, please mention to your schedulers that you’d like to visit Richmond/Burnaby/New Westminster/Surrey/Langley/Coquitlam/Port Coquitlam/Port Moody/Pitt Meadows/Maple Ridge. Most of those are only a two-hour trip from where I am.
Katie Kephalos on 08.28.07 2:24 pm said in reply to the usual GlowBall garbage:
They are far from competent. They are: Stephen Harper and his 124 Attack-Pumpkins.
Katie, I do love how you write!
Geo
Uh Loraine, or Flaherty or Harper or whomever you really are, are you serious when you say
“Don’t you also think that voters respect a government that makes a decision, such as the IT one, based on what is best for the country rather than what is popular or politically gains them votes?”
Didn’t these A-holes lie to gain votes…read Harpobales lips…”we won’t tax income trusts”.
By Chimera on 08.28.07 3:07 pm
NOT that out of the way corner of North Van. The Holiday Inn is just over the Iron Workers 2nd Narrows. And Phibbs Exchange (buses) is not far from there.
Where are you coming from that everywhere else is still 2 hours away?
Geo
They are far from competent. They are: Stephen Harper and his 124 Attack-Pumpkins.
Katie, I do love how you write!
Geo
By Georgine on 08.28.07 5:40 pm
LMAO! Attack Pumpkins…and Halloween is drawing so near.
How about some ‘seedy’ political pie?
I may make a Harper Pumpkin this year.
Yes, any BIG and ROUND pumpkin will do. Carve it up every so pretty with two parallel slices for the smile, beady little holes for eyes, and a BIG HOLE for the snoz.
Then set it in the middle of the road and watch as it goes SQUASH!
A recent study has shown that Kindergarten teachers suffer a disproportionate rate of alcoholism and drug abuse. After reading most of the comments today I can understand why.
Whether Garth, or Esther monitors the comments here, I strongly recommend a deep meditation period each day.
As even Da Arnold found out…
Kindergarten is HELL!
The federal Liberal party is really scraping the bottom of the barrel with Dion as their leader, and that is so obvious.
Now we see Garth Turner travelling on his own down West to rally the remnants of the old PC vote in anticipation of a federal election this year.
It’s obvious that Dion is sending Garth out West to harvest the vote because Dion is eminently unsuitable to rally Canadians to his leadership of the Liberal party.
Good luck Garth on your trip out West, and may you return safely to your home in Halton.
Actually I’m sending myself. And I’m so touched with your concern for my safety. — Garth
YES!
By A.R.Wainwright on 08.28.07 2:13 pm
Then we need to talk more..
Go West young man. I can only hope you spread the word, get some time on a motorcycle and come back in one piece.
Geo: “Where are you coming from that everywhere else is still 2 hours away?”
It’s not where I’m from (Surrey) that makes it a two-hour trip to go anywhere, but how I travel…on public transit…being responsibly green.
It’s not where I’m from (Surrey) that makes it a two-hour trip to go anywhere, but how I travel…on public transit…being responsibly green.
By Chimera on 08.29.07 2:02 pm
Well, pat yourself on the back girl. Getting from and to Surrey sucks from just about anywhere so really it is where you are from. Something we have to rag on to Translink and their rotten management about. Those guys are unbelievable. But that’s more than Garth can do anything about:)
I’m doing most of the summer in Port Moody, looking after the g’kids and the bus system back to town, let alone the north shore is impossible. Apparently it once was ok. Now they want everyone to take the train. $$$.
Can’t you get to the sky train which would take you right to the sea bus, transfer to NV and catch a phibbs exchange bus (or a Cap College) and that driver could tell you which bus for the holiday inn. I’m gussing the Capilano Collage. It’s maybe half a klick from the Holiday Inn. Not sure how long it would take but the NV end would be fast, 15, 20 mins.
I live near there but I never go there so I’m not sure.
I’ll be busing it myself. I don’t drive any more, or at least seldom. My son does loan me his car on occasion is all. And while the Holiday Inn is probably only 3 km from me its a serious hill and what goes down must go up again later.
Anyway, hope this helps.
Geo