Nah, he didn’t show. The Conservative MP for Owen Sound and environs, Larry Miller, warned me in the local paper not to set my boots in his town, but the Sheriff turned out to be all hat and no cattle. And, I would say, he will be branded a coward.
The town hall meeting tonight was worth the drive. And that’s saying something. There is no easy way to get to Owen Sound from Halton, other than across 200 km of secondary roads and one good one which is under heavy construction. But the eight hours I spent driving, then talking, then getting back, was a small price to pay for bringing the first federal public meeting to a place sorely wanting one.
I guess by big city standards a crowd of eighty doesn’t get the juices running, but in a town this size on a Thursday night when there’s no election on, well, even the locals were impressed. Actually there is an election, in Ontario. And two enterprising provincial candidates did show up, the most articulate being the Green, Shane Jolley.
The questions this night were passionately asked. Over-taxation (the latest budget surplus news was taken as proof of that). The economic consequences of the parity buck. Income trusts. Afghanistan – the people, not the war. Election speculation. But the most talk and the most engagement from people was reserved for our Parliamentary system.
Maybe it was because Miller was too chicken to come, when most of the room expected him to swagger in. Maybe it was the fact the first town hall meeting in Owen Sound featured an MP from six ridings away. Maybe it was just a reflection of the frustration people have when trying to talk to their federal guy, or the revulsion they feel watching QP on CPAC.
Not sure. But it seemed cathartic. There was a big collective exhale in the Legion, as these folks vented and, I hope, realized there are members of Parliament who care enough to get in their cars and go to meeting halls and stand in front of their fellow citizens. And it’s not just me. What I do is what any normal, conscientious MP does. It’s the job.
And they made it easy. Gave me a rose for my lapel. Had the stage all decorated with harvest arrangements. Came early and stayed til the end. Jumped up with a standing ovation. Carried my overhead projector to the truck. Thanked me in the dark in the parking lot.
I’d say all Mr. Miller needs to do is screw up enough courage to face his own people. He might be surprised. He might matter.
178 comments ↓
Halton is lucky to have an MP like you.
Hmmm…Larry Miller didn’t show up. Now that’s a surprise! LMAO. Great job Garth! Keep the town halls going…I missed your first one in Niagara. Would love to have you back in our area so I can attend.
Interesting that Harper is touting another GST cut. Terrible economics and terrible tax policy. Cutting the personal income tax rate would put far more money in the pockets of average Canadians. Cutting the GST is simply a political move. People would need to spend tens of thousands of dollars to get the tax break from the GST that they would get from a 1% cut in personal income tax cut. Watch for Flaherty to raise the base rate again, then claim that the neoCons have ‘cut’ taxes.
“And, I would say, he will be branded a coward.”
Now, Garth, is this parliamentarian like? It reads more like a thug wrote it.
Anyway nothing surprises me these. You guys are really desperate these days.
Wowsie wow wow! You managed to get all 80 people out who will vote liberal in the riding! Cool.
BTW…are you following the provincial campaign at all? Who do you support? McGimpy? Tory? We almost got to see the Premiere! He flew over our riding in a helicopter for a photo op next door in Elgin County (I’m in Norfolk), he wanted to have his picture taken with the wind mills. I guess going through the ridings here by car would be getting too close to Caledonia and farmers. Yucky!
Anyway, back to work. No rest for the wicked they say.
Cheers! Leasa
Get rid of Carroll, his judgement is faulty and he never should have put out his book until after the election.
The economy will inevitably be the concern during an impending election.
Your interest in meeting with the public is to be commended.
Larry Miller is happier on the anniversary/good will circuit. If you have tough questions, he needs time to get his script from the PMO.
Larry Miller is a good guy and I like him and I think he works hard.
That was yesterday.. I admire your work ethic and your concept of democracy as well as your political savay. I do think you lose a bit of respect by being so negative after just saying nice things about Larry
Ah, Catherine, take comfort in this:
“How sweet to be a Tory today. Untethered at last from any principled mooring, they are as light as feathers.”
Andrew Coyne, http://andrewcoyne.com/2007/09/selling-out-is-back-in.php
Catherine – give it a rest – you’re getting boring.
Maybe Miller didn’t show up because he can’t answer questions – afterall, it was Miller who tooted that Agnes McPhail (born in his region) was the first woman in parliament and was a Conservative – duh – she was CCP (now NDP). Doesn’t sound like the guy’s too bright and Harper’s been busy so he probably couldn’t get his talking points and rhetoric approved.
Hey Tom. But cutting personal income tax won’t do a thing for the poorest in Canadian society (since they don’t pay taxes) and wouldn’t benefit one bit with a personal income tax cut.
Personally, I’d love an income tax cut (given I live in Alberta, and we only pay 10% provincially, but much higher federally – got to love Alberta’s flat tax!).
If nothing else, the additional 1% GST cut (which harper promised within 5 years of getting elected) will allow everyone to save a few bucks. In my case that will amount to around $400 – $500 bucks, given what I expect to spend over the year. May not be much, but I’ll take what I can get.
Ed the Hun
They have to cut the GST to 5% because they said they would!
Catherine – Leasa: With all the tax money you two pick pockets are stealing from me, I would expect better posts.
As for Miller not showing up…all I can say is….
cluck…cluck…cluck….
No need for Larry to show or discuss anything. His government came in with a surplus and the debt is being paid down. Therefore, his job is effectively done until the next election. No use getting whipped with a pizzle for nothing.
What’s wrong with my pizzle? — Garth
The Joe Clark Syndrome …I knew it would be back.
Who will be stricken by the dreaded “JCS”? When the underdog takes a shot of steroids and proves via the MSM that his opponent is untrustworthy and a liar capable of jilting seniors with no regrets….the end will be a minority but for who? Then Molly Maid will be there to clean house shortly thereafter.
http://www.ottawasun.com/News/Columnists/Harris_Michael/2007/09/28/4532672.html
Anyway nothing surprises me these. You guys are really desperate these days.
By Catherine on 09.28.07 6:06 am
Hey, Chatty Cathy…Who pulled your string? How can you even type with both your feet in your mouth? Now, run along and have your morning fix of Blue Kool-Aide!
Wow – huge surpluses – one has to ask why it was necessary to cut services, sell government buildings etc?
Oh ya, and a tax break may follow which would amount to $15. per person – don’t spend it all in one place folks.
I cannot understand why anyone would believe Harper after Tom Flanigan (his American-republican born mentor) let the cat out of the bag – one would have to be pretty dimwitted to believe Harper will stay middle of the road if he gets a majority. Harper’s a phony – no question about it now.
Hey Garth, whether there are 8 or 80 people at your townhalls, you’re putting the “people” back into “politics” and that’s super powerful. The power you provide us to communicate with one another _again_ is exponential and will have a great effect in all the ridings that you have visited.
Why? Because of the power inherent in political conversations. Personal conversations with our families, neighbours, etc. are much more effective at delivering information than are advertising, announcing, etc.
Politicians need to pay more attention to person-to-person communications. They must find more ways of promoting neighbour-to-neighbour political discussion. The best way to do that is by allowing the public back into the nation’s political life. Just like you are doing … online and in person.
The less we talk about politics with one another, the less likely we are to vote. Voter participation has declined as the opportunities for citizens to participate in political conversations with one another has declined. We have lost the many healthy ways of communication among our fellow Canadians and as a result have become individual consumers of political goods rather than social producers of political outcomes.
People need information to be involved but at the same time are denied information because they have not been able to be involved. That’s where you come in, Garth. Face-to-face communications are more effective than television commercials. Our immediate social bonds play a huge role in our voting behaviour.
Please keep up the good work.
-R
Here’s very good read:
The economic effects of democratic participation in the Journal of Public Economics
Would you agree that there is sometimes justification for a politician to break an election promise? I personally would have trouble with a politician who refused to take action on something that he/she thought was important just because of an election promise. Of course perhaps hard specific promises should not be made at all but it seems that these promises are necessary in order to get elected (but that is the voter’s fault).
In my case that will amount to around $400 – $500 bucks, given what I expect to spend over the year. May not be much, but I’ll take what I can get.
Ed the Hun
By Ed the Hun on 09.28.07 8:13 am
To save that kind of money on taxable goods and services you would probably have to be in the top five per cent of Canadian income earners. If you are not in that group then you must be in serious debt.
This kind of income differential represents a huge gap in the experiences of Canadians.
I can understand the large gap in thinking between those who are at that level of income and most of the posters here who are likely in the middle income groups.
“They have to cut the GST to 5% because they said they would!”
[mrph!] Aw, c’mon, Gary – don’t say stuff like that while I’m drinking my coffee. You almost made it come out my nose!
*****
“given I live in Alberta, and we only pay 10% provincially, but much higher federally – got to love Alberta’s flat tax!”
Only 10%?!? Good grief! I hate to break it to you, Ed, but that’s only about a percentage point below the very top provincial tax bracket in Ontario. I pay 6%. The next one up is 9.
(or were you being sarcastic?)
What’s wrong with my pizzle? — Garth
Pass the pizzle to Dion so he can give Carroll a good flogging.
Of course perhaps hard specific promises should not be made at all but it seems that these promises are necessary in order to get elected (but that is the voter’s fault).
By Bill on 09.28.07 9:25 am
Geez, that’s a beaut … church days, church days, ”I have LIED, but I’ll forgive you, ‘COS YOU DIDN’T.”
Were your daddy and mommy glass-blowers?
Are they elders in the church of the variable pre-fections?
Gotta chair waitin’ fer you[z]e … Got cuffs on the armrests … cuffs at the ankles … and don’t bother to ask where the heavy black electrical wire leads.
Worth repeating.
Stupid to the Last Drop: How Alberta Is Bringing Environmental Armageddon to Canada (And Doesn’t Seem to Care)
Go Garth. At least he’s one MP that has the guts to host a blog and allow neocon wingnuts to post, unlike most con bloggers.
By KPN on 09.27.07 7:29 pm
That was my sense of The Hon. Garth Turner when I met him at a Town Hall in Milton. That hall was very nearly full. There were some very frustrated and angry people in the hall.
Garth don’t sit … He’s always moving on his vow to bring more to the people.
With his policies, principles, crushing
time commitments and physical wear and tear that he’s never once referred to,
he’s got this to show for it.
http://www.emblibrary.com/EL/product_images/L1396.jpg
That isn’t going to change!
Take a hint with the mint Crappers!
http://www.canada.com/nationalpost/news/story.html?id=aeb1e994-d922-4536-8622-89d10322ed6f
Looks like all is not well in Lieberal-land.
http://cnews.canoe.ca/CNEWS/Canada/2007/09/27/4531590-cp.html
“And, I would say, he will be branded a coward.â€
Now, Garth, is this parliamentarian like? It reads more like a thug wrote it.
Anyway nothing surprises me these. You guys are really desperate these days.
By Catherine on 09.28.07 6:06 am
Catherine, your idol Harper & his followers became Prime Minister in January 2006 based on his allegation & spinning lies & it seems he’s trying to do the same thing all over again. I hope this time around he is asked to prove those lies by the people & the media. Spreading rumors of Liberals fighting each other is an example. Yep, just leak a story they make up like “There are rumors of ….” to the media & watch the domino’s fall.
What an evil man he has become. And you guys are so brainwashed you would probably drink that poisoned Kool Aid he would hand you if he asked you to.
Does the Jonestown Massacure come to mind?
PS,Beats me why the media isn’t digging more into those stories especially as they really are the watchdogs for the people. Enough personal comments by the media & a little more facts please.
Have a good day Catherine
If nothing else, the additional 1% GST cut (which harper promised within 5 years of getting elected) will allow everyone to save a few bucks. In my case that will amount to around $400 – $500 bucks, given what I expect to spend over the year. May not be much, but I’ll take what I can get.
Ed the Hun
1% cut means $500? Sounds like you’ll be spending 50k on taxable goods; doesn’t exactly sound like you’re talking on behalf of low-income canadians – therefore stop saying a GST cut would benefit everyone. Even I, making a very decent salary, manage to spend barely anything on taxable goods.
If you have 50k of GST-taxable money to spend each year, something tells me you make at least 100k. If that is the case, a 1% cut on income tax would save you $1000 a year. That’s double. $500 times two. Understand the math? See, it helps everyone.
Captain George: Thanks for your post of the Ottawa Sun column. It made my day thinking of PMSH decked out in matador finery and delivering a coup de grace to his political opponent. What a sight that would be. Sort of like Brando’s Kurtz overseeing the slaughter of the bull in Apocalypse Now. Betcha PMSH cuts a fine figure in a matador’s suit. No, even better, the hippos dancing the Dance of the Hours in Fantasia. The horror, the horror. Thank you again, most kind sir.
http://washingtontimes.com/apps/pbcs.dll/article?AID=/20070926/COMMENTARY/109260012/1012
This is a great piece by Tom Harris/Tim Ball.
Two things First to Ed the Hun I am a widow living on a small pension but I still pay taxes so don’t believe the Con speak that says the poor don’t pay taxes I get GIS but still pay some of it back in the way of taxes,
Second item is off topic but needs to be said. Watch out Jack Layton you have just given your replacement a very large platform , was deputy leader and finance critic asked or offered to Thomas Mulcair it’s no wonder he stated he could work with Stephane Dion as we know from Garth’s exprience that Mr Dion doesn’t offer any inducement to join the party. The NDP once “the Party of Principles” no more
Halton is lucky to have an MP like you.
By scott a ross on 09.28.07 1:20 am
Yes, and it’s not just Halton folks who are lucky. It’s apparent to me and most people in Burlington his belief ‘good governance has no geographic boundaries’
benefits the entire country. I’m sure Mr. Bool in BC, who was told to ‘get a life’ by one MP’s executive assistant, would support that view.
The CPC is comprised of people who HIDE and can’t respond unless they’re scripted by the PMO … and their mouthpieces on this blog devote themselves to unspecific ad hominem trash offered in response.
By Ed the Hun on 09.28.07 8:13 am
You spend $40,000 to $50,000 on GST-able items during a year (i.e. not including your mortgage or food)?
Only 10%?!? Good grief! I hate to break it to you, Ed, but that’s only about a percentage point below the very top provincial tax bracket in Ontario. I pay 6%. The next one up is 9.
(or were you being sarcastic?)
By Jennifer Smith on 09.28.07 9:44 am
But Jennifer, your basic personal deduction in ON for 2007 is only $8553. In AB it’s nearly double that at $15,435. You’ve paid $412.92 in ON Provincial tax before an Albertan has paid 1 cent. Plus, in ON you have a lovely Sur-tax. Meaning, if your earn too much you pay tax on your ON tax. Anyone earning over $62,485 you pay an additional 20% of your taxes. Once your income goes over $73,625 the tax on tax surtax rate goes up to 36%.
The only people in ON who pay less taxes than their counterparts in AB are people earning less than $37,000. From $37,000 to $62,000 the rates are almost the same (just a tad lower in ON). Once you hit that $62,485 Ontarians pay significantly more in Provincial income taxes.
And that’s just “income” and doesn’t take into account taxes on capital gains, dividends, etc.
Because of the complexity of how taxes are implemented you can’t just look at the basic provincial tax rate and claim one province pays less than the other.
Ontario definately gives low income earners a better tax rate than Alberta does. But then Ontario hammers the middle class to make up for it.
http://www.taxtips.ca/marginaltaxrates.htm#Canada
By Sean P. Hogan on 09.28.07 10:35 am
By Sean P. Hogan on 09.28.07 10:47 am
AHA … A member of the church of variable pre-fections … altar boy
and child molesters among its flock …
Pius XII idolaters … Recall them ALL to Rome on sabbatical to frame a plan and gather monies to settle their legal liabilities.
I would characterize you as brain-dead, Sean P. Hogan.
They have to cut the GST to 5% because they said they would!
By Gary V on 09.28.07 8:13 am
It’s still a bad policy.
Would you agree that there is sometimes justification for a politician to break an election promise? I personally would have trouble with a politician who refused to take action on something that he/she thought was important just because of an election promise. Of course perhaps hard specific promises should not be made at all but it seems that these promises are necessary in order to get elected (but that is the voter’s fault).
By Bill on 09.28.07 9:25 am
I would say there could be justification, and if there was, and it was shown to the people, there might be reason to vote for that person again, however, let me give you two examples where it has not be justified. The PM with his 18 page blacked out explanation and Dalton McGuinty’s lie on the Health tax claiming he inherited a 5.6 bollion dollar deficit. Yes he did inherit it but campaigned all through the election that Eves was hiding it. In that case, wisdom would have dictated that he not sign the no tax pledge. But like Harper, he wanted to get elected, so he lied! And many people will vote for the liars! So I agree, it’s the voter’s fault.
Garth,
A big congrats to the people of Owen Sound for “But the most talk and the most engagement from people was reserved for our Parliamentary system.”
Yes, much of our discontent comes from the use and abuse of a system whose basic design comes from the Middle Ages, and whose procedures pre-date the telegraph (not to mention telephone, radio, TV, satellites and internet.) I can communicate with any MP in seconds via e-mail but have to get in line to sign a 25-name petition to communicate with Parliament?
The Parliament of Canada needs to join the 21st century. If that’s too much, join the 20th century, please.
I’d say all Mr. Miller needs to do is screw up enough courage to face his own people. He might be surprised. He might matter.
posted by Garth Turner on 09.28.07 @ 12:33 am
And your accomplishments are what exactly? You spend 18 hours a day fabricating accusations and comments about a PM who is working his ass off to make Canada a better place……why?..all because your ego couldn’t handle the justified spanking he gave you…… given that choice I’d rather be Miller….his integrity is intact….I called you insignificant 12 months ago….with each passing day you sadly become that even more…..
Of course I am insignificant. That’s why you’re here. — Garth
By Sean P. Hogan on 09.28.07 10:35 am
By Sean P. Hogan on 09.28.07 10:47 am
Wassamolla, Sean? The offending Senator’s priest claimed there was ‘no penetration’ …….another variable pre-fection?
Better watch your url references on climate change … One comes out ”Activists claiming unnatural events are natural, or abnormal events normal” while invoking the term
‘zeitgeist’ … meaning that’s the way things were at the time, IN THE INNER CIRCLE OF THE CHURCH OF PIUS XII.
”Well, I heard Pius XII mighta bin kidnapped” …
….while more than a few of his ordained were enthusiastically saluting the policies of a madman!
Do you wish to salute that, Sean?
Is that a picture of the town hall Garth? It looks more like a hair club for men meeting with a couple of spouses for support.
Is that the way you Conservative supporters categorize voters? Care to send along a picture of yourself? — Garth
By John G on 09.28.07 11:18 am
BTW, is your real name Terence? Well, if it is Terence, your webpage does not truly do justice in terms of imagery. I have it, from a reliable journalist in the Toronto print media, that you reside in a quite large urban area, which he called a ‘village’ in the sense he was promoting the idea that ‘every village has one.’
Looks like all is not well in Lieberal-land.
http://cnews.canoe.ca/CNEWS/Canada/2007/09/27/4531590-cp.html
By Sean P. Hogan on 09.28.07 10:35 am
No Sean, that CAN’T be right. It’s only CTV and Mike Duffy who reports things like that, picking on the poor liberals. Coming from another of those nasty media outlets, has got to be a mighty blow to the few who are left supporting Mr. Dion. Oh, well, they can always tune in to See Bee See. They are probably running the ‘Turdeau is our hero’ movie again. Did ya hear See Bee See wouldn’t even report the by-election results? When does the Chretien the greatest PM movie come out?
Okay, ’nuff goofing off. Leasa
By Bill on 09.28.07 9:25 am
Of course there are situations where it would be legitimate for a politician to break his promise. Situations change and they have to be able to respond to different circumstances.
However, it is not unreasonable that they explain in detail to the Canadian voters why reneging on a committment is warranted.
So far, voters are being treated as irrelevant fools in terms of any rationalization for changes in policy. This doesn’t just apply to one party, it applies to them all.
Whether it is Chretien and the GST/Free Trade, or Harper and IT mess, dumping those promises has never been properly addressed.
As far as McGuinty is concerned, we can’t let him off the hook. Liberals claimed there was a deficit of at least $5 Billion long before the election. He made his promise knowing full well that he wouldn’t be able to keep it.
Re: comments by John G on 09.28.07 11:18 am
There is a good reason why a hierarchical party would not want their representatives involved in what Garth is doing: it changes their perceptions.
Although Garth’s town halls deal primarily with issues that are of major concern to him, he picks up a great deal of other information from the public who attend them.
In my opinion, I have seen subtle changes in perception in Garth’s blogs. In other words, the process has continued to open his mind on issues on which he would previously have taken a more dogmatic stand.
We don’t know whether Garth will be successful in taking what he has learned into the party to which he now belongs.
On the other side, Harper may believe that his ideas would make Canada a “better place.” That belief may not be shared by many or even most Canadians. He appears to have either come to view that a more moderate agenda is really in the best interests of the country or that a more moderate agenda is required to get the majority he needs to implement his more radical plan to change the country.
Those who have studied Harper’s ideas over the years understand that his original objective was to privatize government. He applauded Martin for moving in that direction and he appears to be relatively successful speeding up the process even with a minority government.
The end result is increasing conflicts of interest between corporations and the public interest that government is supposed to represent but no longer does. This is precisely why many ordinary Canadians oppose the direction Harper wants to take the country while many in the establishment applaud his leadership.
And your accomplishments are what exactly?
JohnG,
You could be right, I suppose. Perhaps Garth is Don Quixote, tilting at wind mills.
On the other hand, it is apparent that Garth is connecting with people all across the country. He is putting himself out there in front of electors moreso than any other politician I am aware of.
Garth is planting many seeds, in many communities, and people are showing up to see him.
If, when the appropriate time comes, he can motivate them to become involved, I say “watch out”.
CTV.ca “As if that weren’t enough, a star candidate who was set to run for the party called The Canadian Press to announce he’s no longer interested.
Paul Leduc, former mayor of the Montreal suburb of Brossard, says he was endorsed by the party’s provincial election commission in April, but Dion kept him cooling his heels all summer.
Leduc accuses the Liberal leader of “inaction and indecision.””
Dion, the micro managing, over controlling leader. There you have it Garth. You’ve been feeding us a bunch of bull simply because your bitter toward Harper.
You were so quick to criticize Harper’s leadership when you were a conservative. How about Dion’s while your a liberal.
By Sean P. Hogan on 09.28.07 10:35 am
By Sean P. Hogan on 09.28.07 10:47 am
You accused me of not being a Christian.
I’m just not your kind of Christian. You wear the cloak of piety … That’s all … a cloak … like the rest of the C.R.A.P. adherents. I expect to see you next, in front of the parliament buildings, with a used car salesman in tow, proclaiming to the world, if given the chance, we will live by your rules.
That’s not going to happen, Sean.
Harper pledges $725-million in tax cuts
Rebate would put about $35 in each Canadian’s pocket as federal surplus swells to $13.8-billion amid rampant election speculation
http://www.theglobeandmail.com/servlet/story/RTGAM.20070927.wharper_surplus0928/BNStory/National/home
Woopie dee – $35. Would that feed a family of 4 for one day? Doubt it.
Did anyone catch CBC National News last night. They got out their archival tapes of Harper and his gang demonizing the Libs for surpluses below those that Stevie & flim flam were celebrating. Hyprocracy at its finest.
Care to send along a picture of yourself? — Garth
If I’m not mistaken, isn’t Marc from up the road in Wiarton?
Scroll down for a recent pic:
http://www.southbrucepeninsula.com/index.cfm?member=willie
Garth:
Back agian, power failure, oops, in any rate thanks once again for a fine overview, appears to me like there were some very fine working class people there who really care and who’s words will carry far more respect than Larry Millier, (Best he not challenge em on TV,Radio or the street) Yesterday I had a walk (20 min away, easy drive) to Martinque Beach, tide was out sun shining of the beautiful Atlantic and s stiff brease with crashing waves, all I can say is after hearing PMSH spew off about our tax money, it all seemed so un-important. Let me get this straight, PMSH & Mr. Flaherty are going to give us some of “OUR” money back and if we spend more of “Our” money the more of “OUR” money we get back…have I got that right Catherine and Leasa?
Quebec Liberals targeting Dion’s inner circle
Updated Fri. Sep. 28 2007 12:04 PM ET
CTV.ca News Staff
A campaign is being waged in Quebec against Liberal Leader Stephane Dion and his inner circle.
The embattled Dion has suffered several blows recently, including losses in three Quebec byelections and the withdrawal of two key candidates in the province.
Now it appears the Liberal Party’s senior ranks in Quebec are revolting against Dion and his closest associates.
Great choice of Party’s there Garth……your judgement of leadership is also very astute….Harper has no worry’s…….
Mr Garth TurnerMP,
About an 1.5 hour ago I saw Presedent Bush speaking about global warming and his intensity target idea to reduce green house gasses.
, not if we are all paying attention!!!)
He spock about ‘long term’ reduction if greenhouse gases using technology.
PMSH seem to be Bushes side kick, both seeming to be backed by the same neo-con/New world order people in the USA.
Did you hear him telling his backers in New york that he might only get another minority government next election.
(He hopes
At least the world leader know beleive (been told to talk about) Global heating is man made.
They also know we are running low on oil, peak-oil. (Bush knows, that’s way his nome in Texas uses Geothermal heating and A/C).
All we need now is leaders that understand the problem and it’s urgance, who’ll make it a priority to get the job done. And help us all get there sooner that later, with the least amount or pain. We should have started long ago. But we’re here now, so lets get on with the job as quickly as possible. More changing/doing and less talking, so to speak.
Stop allowing the corporations to dicktate short term government polociy so they maximize proffit. We need government to act in the best long term interest of everyone/human beings, or will be all screwed.
From globalwarming deniers to beleivers,
they(Bush/PMSH) don’t get the urgance or seem to understand the basic sceince.
This need to be a priority to avoid destructive runaway effects. It need to be a short term priority, not a long term goal. Instead of bombing human beings(war), spead the money on solutions to glabal heating, peak-oil,
feeding the world, clean water and air,
less global pollution. (Do you know how much plastic is flowting in the oceans as an example)
Constant growth, economic and population, on a finite planet is not possible, there are real limits.
(Beleive in myth, avoids the dicomfort of thought.)
Canada has the best nuclear power plants tecnology in the world, CANDU
see. http://www.aecl.ca
(54% of Ontarios electrical power know comes from CANDU’s)
Why did Bush not mention Canadian nuclear power technology today in his speach.
He mentioned many other contries Nuclear power companies.
Is he not aware of CANDU?
Do his speak writes not know?
Does he feel Canada is just a USA collony? Remember SPP and NAU.
Are there plans to sell AECL
and have it go the way of the Avorrow arrow? That would be a travasty, again!
Canada has the best nuclear power technology in the world and we down play it as Canadians, we need to promote all are great tecnologies to improve trade and help stop global heating, and deal with peak-oil!
We need good paying jobs here and reliable electricity supply that is cost effective and clean. CANDU meets all that! Look at the power plants built by AECL, on time and under budget!
I think Dion understands the issues and seems to have good ideas to get the job done in time to prevent runnaway effects,and still grow our standard of living for everyone.
He seems to be a critical thinker, who looks at all the opion to get the job done! I’m looking forward to seeing his and the liberal platform when the next election is called. (Know need to show all your cards before race begins)
Unlike PMSH and his gang of neo-cons who
lie to get your vote. Don’t let it happen again.
The mass media is control by the corporate bosses, and they use it to manipulate and confuss the masses for there own ends, maximize proffit short term, screw the furture, they won’t be here anyway.
I for one am more that ready to vote this PMSH & Gang of wantabe America Neo-con, Bush, G.I.G., new world order thugs out!
I guess I was a little harsh with my comment. I will stick to making comments about overweight people like the rest of the Liberal supporters here. Thanks for setting me straight Garth.
Good Work Garth…the opposition fails to show up. Typical Con strategy…try to destroy the messenger but take no concrete action of your own .
Now it looks like we are going to get back the Liberal Tax Cut that Harper took away when he got elected. Another of Harpers recycled Liberal policies.
Great choice of Party’s there Garth……your judgement of leadership is also very astute….Harper has no worry’s…….
By John G on 09.28.07 12:27 pm
Interesting you should say that Harper has no worries, the Liberals nor any other party have been his problem, his biggest enemy is Stephen Harper. The despicable behaviour in the House, with such things as lying and hiding behind parliamentary priviledge, the little handbook to destroy democracy within the committees, the smear attempt on Bains, the lies over the detainee file, and the income trust blacked out pages, no one needs to campaign against Harper, he has done it to himself.
Yep Garth, Mr. Harper and Mr. Flaherty are all hat and no cattle, too.
For example, who said this when asked if a big surplus is a sign of good fiscal planning or a sign of not so good planning?
“Uhh, I think, actually, it’s a sign of not good fiscal planning. I know that we should not run deficits, and we don’t want to run deficits, but when surpluses appear out of thin air, I think that’s a sign of bad fiscal management, or even worse, of dishonest fiscal management.”
And who said this when asked if he would rack up surpluses like the Liberals did?
“We’re not gonna come back to the Canadian people, and with Uhhh 8 billion and 10 billion and 12 billion dollars in overtaxation at the end of a given year. We’ve had years and years of of this kind of overtaxation by the previous government, it’s about time it comes to an end.”
See the answers, on video, here. (1 minute 10 secs and 1 min 30 secs, respectively)
Enjoy,
-R
Ed the Hun…to generate a $500 tax saving with a 1% cut in GST a consumer would need to spend $50,000 in taxable purchases. That is far more than the ‘average’ Canadian spends, especially when we consider that the ‘average’ family income (before tax) in Canada in the $55K to $57K range (check out the StatsCan web site for more details).
AHA … A member of the church of variable pre-fections … altar boy
and child molesters among its flock …
Pius XII idolaters … Recall them ALL to Rome on sabbatical to frame a plan and gather monies to settle their legal liabilities.
I would characterize you as brain-dead, Sean P. Hogan.
By PYOTR PETROBITCH on 09.28.07 11:01 am
That would be 2 steps above you. Next!
Garth, can you comment on the emerging revolt developing in the Quebec wing of the Liberal party?
All hell is breaking lose, and we look to your evaluation of the situation that is becoming so adverse to Dion and his leadership.
Thanks.
More examples of how Libs can freely speak their minds while Cons are muzzled. What’s the prob? — Garth
You accused me of not being a Christian.
I’m just not your kind of Christian. You wear the cloak of piety … That’s all … a cloak … like the rest of the C.R.A.P. adherents. I expect to see you next, in front of the parliament buildings, with a used car salesman in tow, proclaiming to the world, if given the chance, we will live by your rules.
That’s not going to happen, Sean.
By PYOTR PETROBITCH on 09.28.07 11:54 am
I don’t know what you mean by C.R.A.P., it’s nothing I subscribe to that’s for sure. Next!
Wassamolla, Sean? The offending Senator’s priest claimed there was ‘no penetration’ …….another variable pre-fection?
Better watch your url references on climate change … One comes out â€Activists claiming unnatural events are natural, or abnormal events normal†while invoking the term
‘zeitgeist’ … meaning that’s the way things were at the time, IN THE INNER CIRCLE OF THE CHURCH OF PIUS XII.
â€Well, I heard Pius XII mighta bin kidnapped†…
….while more than a few of his ordained were enthusiastically saluting the policies of a madman!
Do you wish to salute that, Sean?
By PYOTR PETROBITCH on 09.28.07 11:38 am
You’re obessessed aren’t you? Next!
A campaign is being waged in Quebec against Liberal Leader Stephane Dion and his inner circle.
The embattled Dion has suffered several blows recently, including losses in three Quebec byelections and the withdrawal of two key candidates in the province.
Now it appears the Liberal Party’s senior ranks in Quebec are revolting against Dion and his closest associates.
Senior members of the party’s management committee demanded Thursday that Dion fire Liberal Party national director Jamie Carroll over remarks he is purported to have made about hiring more bilingual Quebecers for Dion’s entourage.
Carroll was hand-picked by Dion and is one of his closest allies.
Sound like internal stuff to me. I don’t care. Why would you? — Garth
I see Harper”s chicks are pecking at everything that’santi CRAP again.These ladies should get alife and have some fun instead of spending all their time blogging on this site.They are rather monotonous.
By John G on 09.28.07 11:18 am
BTW, is your real name Terence? Well, if it is Terence, your webpage does not truly do justice in terms of imagery. I have it, from a reliable journalist in the Toronto print media, that you reside in a quite large urban area, which he called a ‘village’ in the sense he was promoting the idea that ‘every village has one.’
By PYOTR PETROBITCH on 09.28.07 11:42 am
Keep looking Petrobitch, you will find your village eventually. How many have rejected you so far???
By Ed the Hun on 09.28.07 8:13 am
You spend $40,000 to $50,000 on GST-able items during a year (i.e. not including your mortgage or food)?
By Tim N on 09.28.07 10:53 am
Ed makes really good dough, didn’t you know? $5.00 for a medium pepperoni all day long! Cheesa Cheesa, Pleasa Pleasa…
I hear the Militia pays really good too!
Atten Hut!! Preessent Arms!! and all the prairie dogs give a show of paws..
Hey Greg W., Oakville re: your post on 09.28.07 12:41 pm
First, Mr. Bush absolutely has to get the ball rolling to create a “North American Solution” to the climate crisis before his term expires. This is necessary as outlined in the neocon manual entitled, “Towards a North American Union.” The solution will be a North American energy and emissions regime that includes Canada and Mexico. This regime will include a tradable voucher system for emissions trading with Mexico.
Mr. Bush will be talking more and more about this, framing it in progressive language to appear that he is tune with the majority of Americans who want action to address the climate crisis.
Second, not only is Mr. Bush taking this approach to meet the timelines laid out in “Towards a North American Union,” he must implement a framework that allows “business as usual.” He’s gonna make change happen by doing more of the same. No, seriously. And talking about technology as the saviour is a huge laugh, too, non? He’s said for years that the body of knowledge on the climate crisis accumulated by scientists is not trustworthy and now we are reassured that science will save the day.
The entire assumption is that North America can consume all the energy we want, with a disproportionate share going to Americans, as long as the technologies are clean and the market is unregulated. Thus, no substantive changes are needed to the current business, political and social conditions that have created this problem.
-R
By John G on 09.28.07 11:18 am
Typical Con ranting. Of course, if you support the Harper party, the following applies to you:
1. You are/were in favour of invading Iraq
2. By extension, you are in favour of invading Iran
3. You are a closed-minded religious freak who thinks dinosaurs were roaming the earth at the same time as mankind some time after the last week of October 4004 BC.
4. You belong to a NGO funded by the fed. govt. which uses such money to complain about gay marriage on parliament hill.
5. You are against gay marriage for no good reason (google 12reasons.com)
6. You are against women and minority rights, as you supported those program cuts in 2006.
7. You care more about your SUV and your material possessions than the well being of your family (children, grandchildren especially) and society, as you prefer cheap goods prices (through a barely reduced GST) instead of proper institutions such as childcare spots.
8. You support the base income tax increase from 15% to 16%.
9. You are entirely behind your Great Leader, O Lord Harper, even though he said before the election that he wouldn’t tax ITs and did just that (that’s called a LIE in English).
10. You support a government giving over $1 billion to oil companies (capital cost allowance) even though oil prices are around $80 per barrel.
I could go on, but I think we see where this is going. (Note: I am no Liberal supporter either.)
No Sean, that CAN’T be right. It’s only CTV and Mike Duffy who reports things like that, picking on the poor liberals. Coming from another of those nasty media outlets, has got to be a mighty blow to the few who are left supporting Mr. Dion. Oh, well, they can always tune in to See Bee See. They are probably running the ‘Turdeau is our hero’ movie again. Did ya hear See Bee See wouldn’t even report the by-election results? When does the Chretien the greatest PM movie come out?
Okay, ’nuff goofing off. Leasa
By Leasa on 09.28.07 11:44 am
Turdeau? Was that a Freudian slip? Good one nonetheless.
Is that the way you Conservative supporters categorize voters? Care to send along a picture of yourself? — Garth
By Marc on 09.28.07 11:39 am
Jeeez Garth. You could have said this comment to many of your new lefty liberal friends yesterday commenting on the physique of PMSH. But you chose not to because why??????
Garth with every passing blog my friend you are going from hero to zero with some of your off the cuff comments. So let’s have it. For all the folks who commented on PMSH, send in a picture of yourself. Until I see you on the cover of Mens And Womens Fitness, try keeping your yapper shut and the personal insults to yourself.
Sound like internal stuff to me. I don’t care. Why would you? — Garth
So your saying that, because you don’t care, no one else should.
How arrogant.
I don’t know what you mean by C.R.A.P., it’s nothing I subscribe to that’s for sure. Next!
By Sean P. Hogan on 09.28.07 1:12 pm
You’re obessessed aren’t you? Next!
By Sean P. Hogan on 09.28.07 1:12 pm
“There is no such thing in our constitution that states that we have a separation of church and state. Secondly, separation of church and state means that there are no state sanctioned churches. This is being perverted by those who do not wish to have religions participate in elections. WWJD does not mean there is no judgment in terms of what is right and wrong. Ridiculous notion. These cult-secularists keep putting this notion, this lie. Jesus judged many people many times. The Sadducees and the Pharisees are but an example. The lady who was an adulteress, Jesus told her not to sin anymore. He didn’t condemn her, but he judged her actions. Get it now?
These type of people see gray in every area of life, where there is none. For example, crime happens because of poverty and such, you know, blame it on our financial situation. These people never take responsibility for their actions, this is straightforward.” All previous attributed, in quotes, to his most pious, Sean P. Hogan
Because you’ve only really commented on adultery and people in poor circumstance making excuses, I have you tabbed as a LAY preacher. You have no sense of the question [WWJD?] You’ve made it quite obvious you have no sense of The Man Himself.
As one wise member of this forum has already pointed out, ”Makes one wonder if his object is to discredit that which he claims to belong.”
What faith is it that you claim to follow? Where do you do your volunteer work … and for whom?
http://corrigan.ca/april22-07.jpg
NEXT!
What goes on PQ country is PQ business, nothing new here, really is y’a know. Here in Nova Scotia, same ding bye, and if somethin is going on in Cape Breton if you are smart you keep out it or risk a buck in the mouth, nuff said.
On your tour where next, and could you send Larry Miller a fax, just in case he was really busy talking to PMSH about all cash he could get via some shady route for the next election. Sorry Catherine & Leasa, saved that list Garth published to which by the way there has been no real rebuttle, hmmm then again a few million others just might have it also hey.
Keep looking Petrobitch, you will find your village eventually. How many have rejected you so far???
By THE SHADOW KNOWS on 09.28.07 1:20 pm
Informative
Until I see you on the cover of Mens And Womens Fitness, try keeping your yapper shut and the personal insults to yourself.
Steve(Coverall Guy) on 09.28.07 1:47 pm
HEE HEE HEE We’ll try l’il lady!
I could go on, but I think we see where this is going. (Note: I am no Liberal supporter either.)
By Jonnay on 09.28.07 1:31 pm
Gee, how close-minded and intolerant can you get?
THE SHADOW KNOWS SQUAT 09.28.07 1:20 pm
So your saying that, because you don’t care, no one else should.
How arrogant.
By Graeme Edge on 09.28.07 1:49 pm
Graeme, one could use Garth’s logic to state that his problems with the CPC were internal stuff and because of that, why should anyone care?
I see the whole Jamie Carroll thing as a non-issue. Perhaps he did put his foot in his mouth… big deal! Trying to spin that back on Dion as a bad leader is a very poor attempt at political spin. Not saying I like Dion mind you, like a lot of others, I don’t know what he’s about, but I’m not going to hold this against him.
As for the surplus, the Cons are doing exactly what the Libs did, and the Libs are probably going to react the same way the Cons did when the roles were reversed. It’s called politics – the other guy is always wrong, even if I just did the same thing. You see the hyprocritical nature of the beast in pretty much every story out of Ottawa.
Personally, I’d love to see lower income taxes over a lower GST. I would also love to see significant reductions of the national and provincial debts. Right now, I’d be happy with a little of both.
BTW, anyone from Owen Sound ask Larry Miller to host one of these town halls yet?
The U.S. better beef up on border patrols with the dollar at 100.78, probably half of Toronto will be shopping in Buffalo….
By Sean P. Hogan on 09.28.07 2:13 pm
Or, one could change the topic to a more timely examination of the Sadducees
and Pharisees.
One of the two was described as willing to support the yoke of the Roman occupation, and the other was described as a self-righteous, hypocritical, or sanctimonious person.
‘Tis a more than appropriate comparison depicting a person who claims to know his subject well, but is unwilling to show the unfavourable facets.
So, I’ll offer you a Ritz cracker instead of The Wafer.
Graeme, one could use Garth’s logic to state that his problems with the CPC were internal stuff and because of that, why should anyone care?
By Sean P. Hogan on 09.28.07 2:13 pm
Think about the difference between a principal and an observer and the light might go on for you!
Gee, how close-minded and intolerant can you get?
By Sean P. Hogan on 09.28.07 2:11 pm
I ask that question to all you die-hard Lord Harper supporters. It seems the only reason why Stockwell Day didn’t come close to an election win in 2000 was because how his ridiculously backwards beliefs and his obvious intolerance and prejudice were simply laughable. Harper only got in because he hid any trace of that, that is until he gets a majority, if that happens.
If you don’t believe in the intolerance Sean and I pointed out, don’t vote 19th century … i.e. don’t vote Cons. As for you, Sean, I take it it wasn’t me you were calling closed-minded and intolerant. Although I’m obviously strongly against intrusion of religion in politics and normal life, I am the complete contrary of closed-minded!
By pjw on 09.28.07 2:32 pm
I’m headed over there right now to purchase a red duffle bag … from there
it’ll be Washington state and an unmanned border crossing point.
Psssst! You can tell ‘em if you like!
I could go on, but I think we see where this is going. (Note: I am no Liberal supporter either.)
By Jonnay on 09.28.07 1:31 pm
You my dear friend are in serious need of a head doctor……
Let me get this straight, PMSH & Mr. Flaherty are going to give us some of “OUR†money back and if we spend more of “Our†money the more of “OUR†money we get back…have I got that right Catherine and Leasa?
By David Bakody on 09.28.07 12:21 pm
Perhaps, David B., you want to offload the national debt on your grand children? Is that Canjun or Cuba vacation that important to you?
Of course I am insignificant. That’s why you’re here. — Garth
By John G on 09.28.07 11:18 am
Touche, mon ami!
And who said this when asked if he would rack up surpluses like the Liberals did?
“We’re not gonna come back to the Canadian people, and with Uhhh 8 billion and 10 billion and 12 billion dollars in overtaxation at the end of a given year. We’ve had years and years of of this kind of overtaxation by the previous government, it’s about time it comes to an end.â€
See the answers, on video, here. (1 minute 10 secs and 1 min 30 secs, respectively)
Enjoy,
-R
By Rob Wiebe on 09.28.07 12:54 pm
Yeah Rob – as I said before – total hypocrits.
Of course I am insignificant. That’s why you’re here. — Garth
By John G on 09.28.07 11:18 am
Touche, mon ami!
Some (not all) of the CRAP postings are so assinine they are beyond belief. However, they deserve their space, if only to keep the rest of us amused, so here is a Monty Python sketch which gives a much clearer idea of what the majority of the CRAP party stands for — nothing!
http://youtube.com/watch?v=g9S1ty2ygSE
Let me get this straight, PMSH & Mr. Flaherty are going to give us some of “OUR†money back and if we spend more of “Our†money the more of “OUR†money we get back…have I got that right Catherine and Leasa?
By David Bakody on 09.28.07 12:21 pm
Perhaps, David B., you want to offload the national debt on your grand children? Is that Canjun or Cuba vacation that important to you?
By Catherine on 09.28.07 4:06 pm
If I heard correctly last night on the CBC, it was the Liberals who passed legislation that a percentage of our debt had to be paid down each year. Correct me if I’m wrong – it was in the middle of the night that I watched it.
Not sure where to look on Govt website to find this. All I find is the blueing of Canada’s web pages – with tiny little red maple leafs. Wonder how much this has cost we taxpayers!!!
You my dear friend are in serious need of a head doctor……
By John G on 09.28.07 3:27 pm
Naah, since I’m not the one voting Conservative!
(Notice how no one dares to debate the actual points I laid out! Always attack the messenger. Welcome to Harperland.)
For anyone interested I just posted the first part of the audio I recorded from the town hall in Owen Sound last night. Run time is around 38 minutes, audio quality excellent, file size large-ish (27 mb, sorry dial uppers)
Owen Sound Town hall audio
Also if interest might be some audio about MMP
By David Bakody on 09.28.07 12:21 pm
They could start with personal income-tax rates. After the former Liberal government trimmed the lowest rate to 15 per cent from 16 per cent, the Conservatives hiked it back up to 15.5 per cent to pay for their ill-advised cut in the sales tax. They should restore that break, which would cost $1.5-billion a year, and perhaps trim the rate further. Finance Minister Jim Flaherty could also lower the other three personal income-tax rates. “It’s those reductions in marginal rates that increase the incentives to work for taxpayers,” says Dale Orr, chief economist at Global Insight (Canada). “And that’s what we need for productivity and economic growth.”
Do you know where Canjun is? Hell, I sure don’t … but Tsarina Catherine seems to think you might selfishly want to go there. If I was in Cape Breton right now, I’d be asking why I would want to be going anywhere.
I guess I was a little harsh with my comment. I will stick to making comments about overweight people like the rest of the Liberal supporters here. Thanks for setting me straight Garth.
By Marc on 09.28.07 12:41 pm
———–
Mark if you look at that picture, Mr. Harper is grossly overweight and obviously it is not very healthy for him with Asthma and all. He needs to get some exercise and watch what he eats or he will be a walking Heart Attack soon. I point this out not to mock the man now but being a Heart patient myself and having had open heart surgery I know what I am talking about and am very conserned for the man.
However, they deserve their space, if only to keep the rest of us amused
By Charles Oxley on 09.28.07 4:26 pm
Why not suggest to them they can attend the phone booth in Owen Sound where the CPC incumbent is holding his FIRST public meeting. Surely, they can crowd around him in comfort and support.
http://www.garth.ca/weblog/wp-content/uploads/2007/09/larry-miller.jpg
Owen Sound Town hall audio
Also if interest might be some audio about MMP
By Ryan Wiseman on 09.28.07 4:38 pm
Tanks, me aulde son!
Can we get the armour plate for the tanks now? I know it’s a military procurement matter, but you can shake the tree, can’t you?
re.By Randy on 09.28.07 4:45 pm
Sorry to hear of your past heart troubles. I was only trying to point out the double standard that is created on this blog. It is acceptable to say
“Hey, what happened to Harpie’s girdle? Look’s like Harpie has been taking eating lessons from that eye sore, Mike Duffy.”
and
“Think he should cut down on those ‘pork’ rinds.”
and about Larry Miller it is ok to state
“â€Nobody has asked me to hold a meeting†Oh well, we know a phonebooth would be an unsuitable venue, less’n he wants to be his own captive audience.”
With absolutely no critisizm by Garth. When I point out that the men are all balding I get flamed for the obvious fact. So with that it is ok to make juvinile insults about a Conservatives weight, but not ok to insult Liberals folical troubles.
I guess Canadians don’t really care that Flaherty is busy setting up conditions to sell Canadian Resources to foreign interests.
You, as a Canadian cannot buy these resources once this PWI deal goes thru. You can’t buy the stock, and ‘Canada’s New-ish government’ won’t collect a dime of corporate tax.
Who is Flaherty working for?
Your Neo-Con government does not know its posterior from a hole in the ground.
They sold Canada OUT … DELIBERATELY to cosy up to the Bush government … on
the Softwood Lumber Agreement.
http://www.canada.com/nationalpost/financialpost/story.html?id=2d10868c-524f-40f2-a3ca-3be007cc4be4&k=99314
Charles Oxley,
thanks for the Monty Python link. Went down the list for more, and there was the “Argument Clinic”, the perfect illustration of the neo-Con way of argumentation we see right here.
I’ve linked to the script before, but the visual is much more enjoyable –
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=UUt7ypEI5Uk&NR=1
MousyGeezers Fianlly Get Their Ears On
Retirees need seat at the table: CLC
“The process is seriously flawed because” those working to dissolve the problem are the “people who need to cover their asses, and who are not paying for the loss — the pension beneficiaries, taxpayers and shareowners are,” says Diane Urquhart about the asset-backed commercial-paper mess.
Flaherty was asked to name a representative.
Sound like internal stuff to me. I don’t care. Why would you? — Garth
Because if you can’t get you’re internal stuff sorted out, how do you expect to be taken seriously as a credible replacement for PMSH and the CPC?
Although, if PMSH were to win a majority, and I agree with those who say he will go so far right he might fall off the edge, we would only have to endure him for four years. At which time the CPC will be so far down in the opinion polls, the backstabbers in the CPC will be after his resignation!
By James- Chatham on 09.28.07 5:58 pm
But the silver lining, of a PMSH majority lasting only 4 years followed by the demise of the CPC, will have the cloud that there may be nothing left of Canada for the replacement government to govern.
By PYOTR PETROBITCH on 09.28.07 5:37 pm
Elliot Feldman was on politics with Don Newman on CBC…you are right, and absolute sell out of Canada….just to cosy up to Bush…
His best hope for the supposed seven-year [softwood lumber] agreement is that “it lasts more than this year.”
nvanderklippe@nationalpost.com
Contrast ‘half a loaf’ with ‘crumbs.’
By PYOTR PETROBITCH on 09.28.07 4:53 pm
By Herb on 09.28.07 5:50 pm
Gentlemen, good day to you. This is one of my favorite MP sketches — the live version of Sit On My Face (and tell me you love me!). Enjoy!
http://youtube.com/watch?v=FKeQpeDkoGc
Jeeez Garth. You could have said this comment to many of your new lefty liberal friends yesterday commenting on the physique of PMSH. But you chose not to because why??????
Garth with every passing blog my friend you are going from hero to zero with some of your off the cuff comments. So let’s have it. For all the folks who commented on PMSH, send in a picture of yourself. Until I see you on the cover of Mens And Womens Fitness, try keeping your yapper shut and the personal insults to yourself.
By Steve(Coverall Guy) on 09.28.07 1:47 pm
Yeah Steve (Coverall Guy) – coveralls hide all the flab – physically & mentally!!!!
You cons really need to get rid of some of your ‘FAT’.
Garth, can you comment on the emerging revolt developing in the Quebec wing of the Liberal party?
All hell is breaking lose, and we look to your evaluation of the situation that is becoming so adverse to Dion and his leadership.
Thanks.
More examples of how Libs can freely speak their minds while Cons are muzzled. What’s the prob? — Garth
By Harry S on 09.28.07 1:12 pm
========================================================
Why are you being so simplistic and trying to get us to look at your old party?
Could you please comment on these difficult events that are creating real problems for Dion and the Liberal party?
No. — Garth
Looks like faith based schools going down the tubes with the latest polls.
Can’t believe all those people are going to vote for a proven liar…although I can understand voting against faith based schools…voters have no imagination, it has to be Libs or Cons?
You my dear friend are in serious need of a head doctor……
By John G on 09.28.07 3:27 pm
Naah, since I’m not the one voting Conservative!
(Notice how no one dares to debate the actual points I laid out! Always attack the messenger. Welcome to Harperland.)
How utterly precious – loved it
Sound like internal stuff to me. I don’t care. Why would you? — Garth
Because if you can’t get you’re internal stuff sorted out, how do you expect to be taken seriously as a credible replacement for PMSH and the CPC?
Although, if PMSH were to win a majority, and I agree with those who say he will go so far right he might fall off the edge, we would only have to endure him for four years. At which time the CPC will be so far down in the opinion polls, the backstabbers in the CPC will be after his resignation!
By James- Chatham on 09.28.07 5:58 pm
Problem is James – not sure Canada could ever recover from Stevie’s dismantling of Canada. I for one believe, if he ever obtained a majority govt. that he’d take an extreme right position and dismantle any and all social safety nets that exist within Canada. He’s a theo – neocon after all, and anyone who is possibly taken in by his charm ‘only demonstrated last week in NY’ but never to Cdn audiences – are blind fools. and deserve what they get if they should ever vote for this wannabe Bush.
Looks like Dion is about to get slaughtered
by his own party. From CTV:
“Now it appears the Liberal Party’s senior ranks in Quebec are revolting against Dion and his closest associates.”
(Notice how no one dares to debate the actual points I laid out! Always attack the messenger. Welcome to Harperland.)
By Jonnay on 09.28.07 4:36 pm
Debate? LOL I suggest you go back and read your points…..you sound about 10 years old…
I can’t help but notice the die hard lefty’s on this blog are getting more frustrated by the day….insults, name calling etc….are a sure sign you’re losing the battle…it’s really quite comical….I can see all your red faces from here…
You have the wrong end. — Garth
Hey all, according to the polls, McGimpy is going to get in again with a majority! I give up. This is what Ontarians are thinking about re-electing:
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=PZBzp8ZUp-w&NR=1
One of the MOST important files that directly concerns all of us. Leasa
You have the wrong end. — Garth
LOL, love it.
The other thing I love is how all the cpc harper bots are concerned about Dion’s problems. Seems to me they should be trying to cover for Dion, since to believe that Harpy will wipe the with Dion,… but then again you expend effort attacking what is true threat to our desires for power.
Seriously guys, if you believe that Dion isn’t a threat to Harpo, why do you want to have the Liberals replace him? Why spend millions in ad campaigns try to get Canadian’s to buy ‘Dion isn’t a leader’ crap.
Still at the end of the day Harpo and the cpc are still minority territory against the non-leader Dion, lol doesn’t say much for Harpo.
An excellent article which extolls the positives of home schooling, as compared to regular schools.
http://www.infowars.net/articles/september2007/280907Cake.htm
http://youtube.com/watch?v=FKeQpeDkoGc
By Charles Oxley on 09.28.07 6:25 pm
Charles – whas that Peter MacKay – 2nd fromm left – nose and ass sure looked familiar to me
With absolutely no critisizm by Garth. When I point out that the men are all balding I get flamed for the obvious fact. So with that it is ok to make juvinile insults about a Conservatives weight, but not ok to insult Liberals folical troubles.
By Marc on 09.28.07 5:19 pm
Thats because those in the public domain are fair game. The poeple at the town hall are private citizens. You should direct your insults, if you have any, at Garth. He’s got big shoulders and a big beard, I bet he can take anything you dish. Garth Turner has put himself out there for the feedback – good or bad – I think. Insults are the lowest of commentary but if you’re a publican you can expect to be ridiculed.
Problem is James – not sure Canada could ever recover from Stevie’s dismantling of Canada.
By KPN on 09.28.07 7:23 pm
As I added, that would be the cloud to the silver lining. Problem is it would be one of those humungous thunder clouds with a few F5’s mixed in. We would be rebuilding Canada back to where it was for years.
And I, for one, came to Canada because it wasn’t the USA.
So personal preference, PMSH pink slipped at the next election. Even a minority CPC would do it as he wouldn’t have won the majority he promised. Et tu Brute at the CPC! They might then realise they really need a PC at the helm, because that’s what Canadian’s are, progressive. Are there any left on that side of the house?
absolute sell out of Canada…just to cosy up to Bush…
By pjw on 09.28.07 6:10 pm
I am working on ‘the file’ right now. Remember the hasty pudding negotiations.
”If you don’t take this deal, you’ll never get a deal.” Well, the implementation has been delayed, ‘due to technicalities.’
More later … The timelines described require a full elaboation. The Byrd amendment was ruled illegal by NAFTA, CITT and WTO. We really got screwed BIG TIME.
By Leasa on 09.28.07 7:42 pm
Better the devil you know than the one you don’t.
Mr. Tory isn’t promising anything as far as timelines are concerned, but he’s promising to spend a lot of money somewhere and cut taxes. How’s he going to pay for it all?
Ontario Liberals on course for majority: poll
http://www.canada.com/topics/news/politics/story.html?id=f920ead0-e993-45a7-9658-7a20b14727fd&k=33388
Religion ‘killing’ Tory says political scientist
John Tory enters the final leg of the provincial election campaign with the daunting task of shifting voters’ attention from faith-based school funding – the issue he willingly embraced as a potential vote-getter
What I don’t understand is HOW TORY CAN NOW DIVERT ATTENTION FROM SOMETHING HE STRONGLY SUPPORTS … BY LYING MAYBE?
Hey all
My name is Awl … not all! You can scratch me if you want.
By Leasa on 09.28.07 7:42 pm
hey could start with personal income-tax rates. After the former Liberal government trimmed the lowest rate to 15 per cent from 16 per cent, the Conservatives hiked it back up to 15.5 per cent to pay for their ill-advised cut in the sales tax. They should restore that break, which would cost $1.5-billion a year, and perhaps trim the rate further. Finance Minister Jim Flaherty could also lower the other three personal income-tax rates. “It’s those reductions in marginal rates that increase the incentives to work for taxpayers,†says Dale Orr, chief economist at Global Insight (Canada). “And that’s what we need for productivity and economic growth.â€
Do you know where Canjun is? Hell, I sure don’t … but Tsarina Catherine seems to think you might selfishly want to go there. If I was in Cape Breton right now, I’d be asking why I would want to be going anywhere.
By PYOTR PETROBITCH on 09.28.07 4:39 pm
So do you actually know what the 0.5 increase in the lowest rate actually amounted to? About 500$ per year or less than 10$ per week!
Now if you truly were a person of integrity, you would examine the last 2 budgets and actually find that one either broke even (500$) or had more tax savings under the Conservative budgets!
But hey PP, seems you have to sing the same boring Liberal crap and keep those binders on. I feel sorry for you.
To save $500 on the GST cut announced thus far would require after-tax consumer spending of $50,000 a year. The average family income is $55,000, or about $40,000 after tax, of which about half is spent on non-GSTable mortgage payments and food. In other words, the Liberal tax cut meant at least twice as much to average taxpayers as the GST reduction. Too bad Mr. Harper raised their personal tax rate to pay for the GST cut. — Garth
From the diarrhoea of John Tory
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=U-ERTDqofFI
By Catherine on 09.28.07 8:53 pm
Thank you for feeling ’sorry for me’ Tsarina. I feel very sorry for you. Despite the best advice from economists
and a quick ”it does not compute” from Greg Weston, Sun Newspapers, you’re
still trying to put a BIG LIE IN THE WINDOW. And then you have the absolute GALL to wonder why NOBODY (67%) don’t believe a word you say … and even less are willing to believe in your agenda.
Well there is talk of another GST cut. But I stick to my previous statements that tax cuts are inflationary. Reductions in consumption taxes also tend to benefit the well-to-do.
Yes, buy that new car, SUV, boat, ATV, and reap the savings. But, realize that the retailers will be the ones who really reap the savings.
>What’s wrong with my pizzle? — Garth
Don’t be an idiot Garth
Stephen Harper should lose weight–but so should a lot of other Canadians.
It would be INCREDIBLY stupid to criticize him for his weight during an election campaign–just as it was incredibly stupid to criticize Chretien for his facial impairment.
Millions of Canadians have problems with weight gain. NO ONE wants this criticism.
Garth you keep yapping about what the Liberals tax cut would have done. The fact is that my taxes always went up under the liberals and my income didn’t increase especially that last year they were in office.
But since the Conservatives has doubled the pension credit to $2000 and increased the age limit credit and other credits I have seen and will continue to see a good drop in the amount of tax I pay. And that is on top of the GST tax cut. In fact with the GST tax cut I saved $230.00 in taxes just on that purchase. I also will look froward to the 2nd GST tax cut as well.
You Liberals also fail to mention that the .5% cut fro the lowest level of tax payer would not help any of the public who do not pay taxes. On the other hand the GST tax cut benfits everyone especially the very low income earners.
So you see Garth not everything that you say is what it seems. You keep talking about truth etc so why don’t you tell the whole story instead just part of it?
This is an inauspicious time to be paying down the debt….the surplus should go to the provinces, cities, towns and villages for infastrusture,education and tax restraint at the municiple level. An income or corporate tax cut(perhaps selective) should be avoided at this time as it ,combined with an interest rate reduction would stoke the fires of inflation. While our productivity level is aprox.80% of the US level and ,hence the Canadian dollar should trade around a similar discount, our fiscal situation is causing an unbalance between the currencies. We need to signal that the Canadian dollar is overvalued so that the buck stops where it is and reverses its assent. Otherwise, we risk serious damage to our econmy and will exacerbate the recession that that usually follows a boom period. The surplus is occassioned by high corporate tax receipts from the resource companies whose bottom line has been swollen by record demand and prices. If we are fortunate, this situation has a while to run but should it end we could find ourselves between a rock and a hard place.
Garth Wrote
>Too bad Mr. Harper raised their personal >tax rate to pay for the GST cut. —
To bad Mr Turner failed to mention the tax credit increases that Harper gave for pensioners that surpassed the Liberal tax cut. To bad Mr Turner failed to mention that the Liberal tax cut would not benefit the wage earners who don;t make enough money to pay taxes while the GST Tax cut does benefit everyone who spends money. To bad Mr Turner didn’t tell the whole story.
>It’s still a bad policy.
Jim wrote.
>You were so quick to criticize Harper’s >leadership when you were a conservative. >How about Dion’s while your a liberal.
He doesn’t dare because he was read the riot act by Dion. If he did he would be kick out of the Liberal caucus just like he was kicked out of the Conservative caucus and rightly so on both counts.
Gee, Van, is that a dare? — Garth
Keep Kicking Ass and Taking Names Garth.Go Out and show the People that you can be “Progressive” and be Conservative.the CPC will lose voters like myself that will swing alittle to the Left or Right depending on the Party platform. they’re Sly Sneaky bastards and Harpers the biggest Sneak of them All.Except for Leasha,Catty Cathrine and Loony loraine and my Stupid Sister not many women Like Harper. Women are usually Always good at Picking out an Asshole in any crowd.Harper Oozes “Bouquet of Asshole” he May be “Strong’ ,but Smell isn’t everything :>). wouldn’t trust him as Far as I could toss his fat Ass.You on the other hand have proven that you are trustworthy.As always Actions Speak louder than Words. You got my vote next election because you’ve Earned it. Thank You for proving that we can Still elect Good Guys.Hope you’re Not An Endangered Species Harper has Cut Funding.:>)
Hey Garth,
How about a blog entry about the incredible shrinking Liberal Party and the mutany against French Citizen and Librano leader Professor Dion?
It would be INCREDIBLY stupid to criticize him for his weight during an election campaign–just as it was incredibly stupid to criticize Chretien for his facial impairment.
By MJB on 09.28.07 9:47 pm
———————–
Just as it would be incredibly stupid for the Harper supporters who continuously make fun of Dion and his accent/language during a debate or election campaign. It would blow up big time in their face.
By Van on 09.28.07 9:52 pm
So Van, are you going to buy another new vehicle next year?
Van: Too bad Mr. Harper overtaxed every Canadian citizen to the tune of 14 billion and counting.
Too bad he broke his vow not to run surpluses because that would mean ordinary Canadians (as he likes to call us) were paying too much tax.
Too bad he is giving us 750 million in tax savings (maybe) when he already overtaxed us to the tune of 14 billion .
Too bad he and Emerson caved to the U.S. lumber industry and George Bush.Too bad that American lumber lawyers have to be the ones to tell Canadians they were duped by Harper and Emerson.
Too bad Harper treats the climate change crisis as a “public relations” stunt.
Too bad Harper goes to George’s house and announces some ethereal, far-off excuse of a environmental plan. Too bad Steve and George mimic being environmental leaders, when instead of fighting FOR a stringent global plan, they are fighting ABOUT a global plan.
Too bad for all of us.
By SUE on 09.28.07 10:10 pm
It is indeed rare to see such a testament to the deep affection and love you APPEAR to feel for PMSH. I hope you don’t mind if I bookmark it to return quite frequently. Bouquet of Asshole indeed, Strong but Smell isn’t everything … Certainly not as good as Eau de toilette which has around 1-6% perfume concentrates. This makes for a light scent that doesn’t linger as long as the more intense versions. It was originally intended to be a refreshing body splash to help people wake up in the morning.
Eau de cologne, by comparison, is sometimes used interchangeably with the term eau de toilette. However, the concoction began as the name of a light, fresh fragrance mixed with citrus oils and was made popular by Napoleon.* Some perfumers today have a version of this called eau fraiche. *Recalling of course, during the days of Napoleon, when most concealed the fact they did not bathe regularly, by ‘’splashing” copious amounts of various scents upon themselves.
You appear to be a true connoisseur and a person with expert knowledge or training, especially in the fine arts
as well as a person of informed and discriminating taste.
Have you ever thought, out of kindness, to drop a line to his primper/preener?
By Randy on 09.28.07 10:44 pm
Agreed.
Too bad for all of us.
By Judy on 09.28.07 10:51 pm
Too bad for you Harper will win a majority next time …..
they’re Sly Sneaky bastards and Harpers the biggest Sneak of them All.Except for Leasha,Catty Cathrine and Loony loraine and my Stupid Sister not many women Like Harper. Women are usually Always good at Picking out an Asshole in any crowd.Harper Oozes “Bouquet of Asshole†he May be “Strong’ ,but Smell isn’t everything :>). wouldn’t trust him as Far as I could toss his fat Ass.
By SUE on 09.28.07 10:10 pm
LMAO…LOL Yup you represent the tolerant Liberal women well….no one has demonstrated ALL my points in one post as well as you..thank you Sue….Thank God I’m a Conservative LOL
Why would Miller, the elected MP show up at a PR event put on for Garth by fans of Garth to talk about issues Garth promotes when he has no authority to discuss Liberal policy on any of them? There’s a danger of making the whole thing look legitimate. The real test will be if he does or doesn’t show up for events during a real campaign
That’s Mr. Miller’s choice of course. But if 80 people gathered in Halton to talk politics in an open forum, and I knew about it, you could not keep me away. I’m the MP. It’s my job. — Garth
It appears that the judicious and frugal cuts meant to trim the fat out of spending, including such extravagances like adult literacy programs and palliative care research, does not apply when it comes to meeting rooms with the capacity to accommodate 26. Government, it seems, does have its perks:
http://www.canada.com/ottawacitizen/news/business/story.html?id=689bea14-d07f-4706-8db6-d4ed08c62b54
Well Mr Big Pants, perhaps you can save us a wee bit by purchasing the gold-plated executive plumbing fixtures second hand from the Enron yard sale. Oh, and I think I can fit 26 in my basement; if you don’t mind relocating, I’ll gladly lease it to you for a fraction of what the new digs will cost. Now, will that be a little Dom Pérignon with that?
The CRAP party is too stupid to realize that all the dissention in the Liberal party is just part of their strategy….they want the CRAPPERS to think the party is falling apart and then once the election is called, WHAMMO, the Liberals will all unite!
Shhhh Garth, don’t tell anyone I said that!
Another broken promise. HARPER PROMISED TO CUT THE FAT OUT OF GOVERNMENT but based on that photo of him the other day it is quite apparent he is spending too much time at the trough!
“Stephen Harper should lose weight–but so should a lot of other Canadians.
It would be INCREDIBLY stupid to criticize him for his weight during an election campaign–just as it was incredibly stupid to criticize Chretien for his facial impairment.
Millions of Canadians have problems with weight gain. NO ONE wants this criticism.
By MJB on 09.28.07 9:47 pm “
Carroll was hand-picked by Dion and is one of his closest allies.
Sound like internal stuff to me. I don’t care. Why would you? — Garth
By Ike on 09.28.07 1:13 pm
Garth, I care about the Carrol debacle in the sense that if we lose Quebec, then it will be impossible for the Dion Party to gain the needed majority in the next election. And that should concern both of us.
Will you push for an election sooner rather than later?
Jennifer;
Have a read:
http://www.finance.gov.ab.ca/publications/budget/budget2007/tax.html
And don’t forget, it is 10% no matter how much you make (above the personal exemption (around $15,000 – no tax at all).
And finally (and best of all – NOT PST. Zero. Zilch).
You can keep the ontario rates. I’ll keep ours with the no PST.
Ed the Hun
Jonnay,
If you don’t pay income taxes (i.e. you don’t have an income, or it is so low that you don’t pay), an income tax cut DOES NOT help that person.
Even the poorest person must expend funds on taxed items.
I’d just as soon see any tax cut be given to everyone, not just someone who makes enough to pay taxes.
Ed the Hun
Greg,
Want to know what a person makes in the military:
http://www.recruiting.forces.gc.ca/v3/engraph/resources/payandbenefits_en.aspx?count=1&id=1842&bhcp=1
After 5 years an officer will make approximately $66,000 annually. I served 23. I’ll you figure out where I might have ended up….
Psst – what is the bottom figure for the top 5% of wage earners in Canada – $89,000 per year I think.
And because your ignorance is showing, the minimum wage in Alberta is $8.00 per hour (of which almost nobody actually earns due to the high demand for labour).
Anyway, Greg, good luck with the handicap.
Ed the Hun
He doesn’t dare because he was read the riot act by Dion. If he did he would be kick out of the Liberal caucus just like he was kicked out of the Conservative caucus and rightly so on both counts.
Gee, Van, is that a dare? — Garth
By Van on 09.28.07 10:04 pm
Yes Van, it is diificult to see someone in Ottawa speak the truth, God knows all the bobbleheads on the Con side can’t speak without notes from Harper. I would think Cons would be the last to criticize someone who IN THEIR OPINION keeps internal matters quiet. That’s how Harper governs this whole country, MUZZLEMAN!
To bad Mr Turner failed to mention the tax credit increases that Harper gave for pensioners that surpassed the Liberal tax cut. To bad Mr Turner failed to mention that the Liberal tax cut would not benefit the wage earners who don;t make enough money to pay taxes while the GST Tax cut does benefit everyone who spends money. To bad Mr Turner didn’t tell the whole story.
By Van on 09.28.07 10:00 pm
Too bad didn’t tell you the GST cut was for Harper’s wealthy friends, too bad Van didn’t tell you that things like food have no GST…too bad Van didn’t tell you the poor have very little opportunity to buy goods that are GST applicable, too bad Van didn’t tell you the whole story.
By Michael on 09.28.07 10:00 pm
Now Michael, why would they Feds want to send money to the municipalities, think about it, they overtax us by 14 billion, then the municipalities (some mismanaged) can charge us an additional 7% on our property taxes, all part of the Cons plan to raise taxes especially on those who can least afford them. After all, only those with money count!
To save $500 on the GST cut announced thus far would require after-tax consumer spending of $50,000 a year. The average family income is $55,000, or about $40,000 after tax, of which about half is spent on non-GSTable mortgage payments and food. In other words, the Liberal tax cut meant at least twice as much to average taxpayers as the GST reduction. Too bad Mr. Harper raised their personal tax rate to pay for the GST cut. — Garth
By Catherine on 09.28.07 8:53 pm
Ahh Garth, using ONLY the 1% reduction in GST to debate the 0.5% increase in the lower rate of personal income tax increase is really lame. I’m glad I don’t have you as my financial advisor/analyst.
Garth, I hope you understand the impact on one’s taxes, you must look at the total tax act (including deductions, exemptions, and inclusions).
BTW, Garth, you know full well the November 14th, 2005 1% lowering of the personal rate was another act of desperation by the Martin Liberal cabinet. Oh yeah, Martin, as the Liberal finance minister, wanted to scrap the GST. Didn’t Sheila Copps resign over this? Maybe you Liberals need to get Sheila to run as the Liberal leader. She would be a lot stronger than the current leader you have.
Don’t be an idiot Garth
By Van on 09.28.07 9:44 pm
What is the problem Van? You don’t like company?
“As far as McGuinty is concerned, we can’t let him off the hook. Liberals claimed there was a deficit of at least $5 Billion long before the election. He made his promise knowing full well that he wouldn’t be able to keep it.”
I agree but then it is a matter of picking the best of a bad lot.
Maybe you Liberals need to get Sheila to run as the Liberal leader. She would be a lot stronger than the current leader you have.
By Catherine on 09.29.07 6:22 am
Hey Cathy! The LPOC would never take a woman seriously in running for the top job. Just look at the trashing the few brave Liberal women took during the last leadership race. Bottom of the heap along with the one lonely gay guy. Yes, they are ‘inclusive’. On the other side, the one to beat for Mr. Harper in the leadership campaign was yes, a woman. At that time, Belinda was taken very seriously by the new CPC and she beat out Clement hands down and gave Harper real competition. THAT would never be ALLOWED to happen in the LPOC. Poor Sheila. L
That would be before Belinda discovered Mr. Harper’s true nature and left, at which time he questioned her intellect, right? This was also the time Mr. Harper’s colleagues called here a whore and a dipstick, correct? Yes, Leasa, tell us about the respect for women the CPC exemplifies. Poor Leasa. — Garth
In regards to the proportional voting system, my thoughts are:
The weakness of proportional voting is the unelected list members. That system encourages radical or favoured members of parties to get seats they otherwise would not gain. But overall, proportional representation is a fairer way of electing democratic governments and expect improvements in the selection of list members to occur as the voters become more accustomed to proportional representation.
But proportional representation is fated to not pass because of the 60% super majority set by the existing Ontario government for it to become reality. Perhaps it takes more than one referendum and a lower majority?
Garth, I care about the Carrol debacle in the sense that if we lose Quebec, then it will be impossible for the Dion Party to gain the needed majority in the next election. And that should concern both of us.
Will you push for an election sooner rather than later?
By Ike on 09.29.07 12:37 am
Ike…In all due respect who has brainwashed you into thinking Dion even has a chance of forming a minority government let alone a majority one, during the next election?????
Anyway, Greg, good luck with the handicap.
Ed the Hun
By Ed the Hun on 09.29.07 1:46 am
Beetle, when you learn to use a calculator gooder, and improve your reading / comprehension skills, you may overcome some of your handicaps.
I notice you didn’t answer this poster;
By Ed the Hun on 09.28.07 8:13 am
You spend $40,000 to $50,000 on GST-able items during a year (i.e. not including your mortgage or food)?
By Tim N on 09.28.07 10:53 am
Want to shore up your credibility a bit Beetle? Atten Hut!!
Lower majority is a wrong approach when it comes to fundamental change. There has to be a clear mandate to move forward, and not just a chance win because someone was sick, travelling or otherwise indisposed on voting day. Even if a company’s employees want to become union-certified, they must show there is significant demand, and not just chance behind a change. I’ve always had problems with “50%+1″ thresholds supported by the Block and now defunct Reform. The Clarity Act set the former straight with respect to Separation.
I personally am in favour of MMPR and still have faith that Ontario will show the way, and others will fall in line once they have a backyard model to observe, as they often do for other important issues. I note that as of yesterday, BC is trail-blazing on the environment front, following the Terminator’s lead. Who’s next? I think that after the Ontario election, should MMPR be successful, the Liberals should join the NDP and Greens in including it in their platforms. With a 5% threshold for electing an MP, maybe even the fringe Family Coalition Party might be represented.
I don’t think Martha Hall Findlay’s best days are already behind her. She and Gerard Kennedy are part of the next wave of replacement as much of the older bunch retire from public life. I look forward to the day when she becomes Canada’s first elected female Prime Minister. And of course Garth, here, will make a fine member of cabinet.
Leasa,
The new Conservative Party under Stephen Harper is not a comfortable fit for the majority of women. Deborah Gray was immediately marginalized when Harper become leader. Diane Ablonsky has been marginalized because she dared oppose him. Bev Oda was raked over the coals for supporting equality for women. The Calgary MP put in charge of the Department of Environment was blamed for not being to “sell” the Harper version of environmentalism.
The Reform and Progressive Conservative Parties were a far more friendly place for women than the Harper Party.
Garth, When you stated how much some one would have to spend to make up for in GST to the Conservatives income tax hike, did you fail to add in the tax savings due to the escalating personal exemptions? Now with that how much would a family need to spend to make up the difference?
The exemptions were contained in the last Liberal budget, and merely carried on by Mr. Flaherty. That was the correct course of action, and I applaud him for it. — Garth
Marc,
What you may not understand is that many Canadians did not fall into the new categories and saw their personal exemptions decline. Those, often low income earners, saw their taxes go up on both the decreased personal exemption and on the increase in the low rate.
Thank you Garth for coming up to Owen Sound. Your visit with us on Thursday night was a great success the feed back has been huge. We are hearing a lot of I wanted to go to that i forgot will he come back again . Again it was a pleasure to meet you and share the evening with you. I haven’t heard from Larry Miller on it but I doubt if I will
Thanks again
Thom Noble
President
Bruce/Grey-Owen Sound
Liberal Riding Association
PJw wrote.
>too bad Van didn’t tell you the poor have >very little opportunity to buy goods that >are GST applicable, too bad Van didn’t >tell you the whole story.
All low wage earners but GST applicable items at one time or another.
Garth wrote,
>Gee, Van, is that a dare? — Garth
Fill your boots, Garth
All low wage earners but GST applicable items at one time or another.
By Van on 09.29.07 4:43 pm
And so in the Con world that is a fair tax break for the wealthy and the poor…I earn $30,000, you earn $100,000 and we both get a 1% break, only most of my goods are tax free, yours aren’t…you certainly have made your case!
This was also the time Mr. Harper’s colleagues called here a whore and a dipstick, correct? Yes, Leasa, tell us about the respect for women the CPC exemplifies. Poor Leasa. — Garth
By Leasa on 09.29.07 10:59 am
Garth are we fighting? Remember, we shouldn’t go to bed angry! Not good for a relationship I hear. Anyway, I believe that the ‘whore’ word was used not in a sexual way, but as in ‘political whore’ when she SOLD her loyalty for a Cabinet position. Still not nice but I believe that was the context. Belinda was respected a great deal in the CPC. Right up until the secret deal she was still sending out new mail-outs extolling the virtues of the CPC. Many people were justifiably angry and hurt. You still don’t explain Garth, the poor showing of the women in the liberal leadership race. No one would take them seriously, not for a second. Brison was also marginalized because he is gay, there is no other reason for him not to have been held as a credible contender. Look at Ms. Copps, she ran twice and found no support inside the old boy’s club and she herself will tell you that. You are living in a glass house Garth, careful about those stones.
Okay, fights over. I still think you are as cute as ever, except I think you should shave the beard. Those cheeks are adorable and I’d just love to pinch ‘em!
Later Tater!
PJW,
“And so in the Con world that is a fair tax break for the wealthy and the poor…I earn $30,000, you earn $100,000 and we both get a 1% break, only most of my goods are tax free, yours aren’t…you certainly have made your case!”
By pjw on 09.29.07 5:45 pm
It seems to me that it is fairer that everyone gets a reduction in taxes (via a GST cut) as compared to a tax cut where those who make the least and are society’s poorest (i.e. don’t pay taxes) won’t get any reduction in taxes (since they don’t pay them).
In my world that seems a lot fairer than what you seem to be proposing.
Ed the Hun
By Ed the Hun on 09.30.07 12:13 am
In your world I am sure Ed, but not in mine, I pay very little GST during the year, most of what I buy is exempt, I would benefit from a lower tax rate in the lower bracket. This lower tax rate would be applicable to the rich as well, this way we both get it, not tons for them and diddlely for folks like me.
PJW,
Then given your apparent situation, let me assume that you don’t have much discretionary income. Given that, that majority of your cash is used to pay for the necessities…So given that you have to pay GST for your telephone service, power bill, gas bill, utilities, gas at the pumps, etc. I would have to believe that a great deal of those things that you are expending your funds on are not GST exempt and therefore you too are receiving that benefit.
Now since you obviously work and earn enough to be interested in receiving a tax cut, then you are truly NOT indicative of a person who is considered poor-enough and not be in a situation where you do NOT have to pay income tax. It is this person who would NOT benefit from a tax cut at all. And with a GST cut, they would receive that flow through as well. Alot? Certainly not, but more than they would recieve from that tax cut you so desperately want.
Now, for me, I have never claimed to be destitute. I am quite comfortable given I moved to Alberta 8 years ago and was able to purchase my residence (as were most Albertans) before the market went crazy. Along with that, my wife is a professional (works at the university) and between the both of us, we make a good income. On top of that we are responsible and frugal in the financial aspects of our existence. We have in our past, done without, and certainly even now stay well within our budgetary limits. Am I rich? Not at all, but I suspect one thing we are, unlike alot of Canadians, is responsible and stay within our means. I don’t carry any consumer debt (save up until we can pay for our purchases), follow a budget (food, clothes, etc), and given that we are quite comfortable (comfortable mainly from the perspective that our wants are always reasonable, so that our needs can be met).
And by the way, wait for Oct. I’m pretty sure you’ll be hearing about that tax cut that all of the liberals on this blog seem so desperate get their hands on. Certainly, I will benefit from a tax cut, but not because of all of the money that I make, but because it will become additional cash that I will have no real purpose to spend (I’ll be using any tax cut to increase my charitable donations).
Ed the Hun
What faith is it that you claim to follow? Where do you do your volunteer work … and for whom?
http://corrigan.ca/april22-07.jpg
NEXT!
By PYOTR PETROBITCH on 09.28.07 1:56 pm
Why would I share this with a person who derides anything that is Christian in the world? Why would you even think of even asking me? Next!
I ask that question to all you die-hard Lord Harper supporters. It seems the only reason why Stockwell Day didn’t come close to an election win in 2000 was because how his ridiculously backwards beliefs and his obvious intolerance and prejudice were simply laughable. Harper only got in because he hid any trace of that, that is until he gets a majority, if that happens.
If you don’t believe in the intolerance Sean and I pointed out, don’t vote 19th century … i.e. don’t vote Cons. As for you, Sean, I take it it wasn’t me you were calling closed-minded and intolerant. Although I’m obviously strongly against intrusion of religion in politics and normal life, I am the complete contrary of closed-minded!
By Jonnay on 09.28.07 2:55 pm
I gather you haven’t read my postings before. I do not support Harper at all.
First you talk about intolerance and obviously you think yourself tolerant and then you ridicule someone’s beliefs because they are different than your’s. You just put yourself squarely into the definition of intolerance. If you indeed were tolerant and open-minded you wouldn’t object to those people who are religious, being in politics. Wow, you certainly are a contrary person.
Think about the difference between a principal and an observer and the light might go on for you!
By pjw on 09.28.07 2:40 pm
Sorry, but I seem to be able to see much more clearly than yourself.
PJW, I don’t make any where nearly half of the 100k you claim I make per year. Fyi, the tax change that Harper made was only 1/2 of 1 percent and not one that you claim in our example. Perhaps next time you should get your facts before giving our incorrect info. Oh yeah, I forgot you are a liberal so I should have expected as much.