Turner appointed Special Advisor to Stephane Dion
OTTAWA – MP Garth Turner has today been assigned two key roles by Liberal Leader Stephane Dion, taking on the title of Special Advisor, in anticipation of the new session of Parliament and a possible fall national election.
Garth Turner, MP for Halton, will “build on the success of his summer tour and take on responsibility as the Leader’s Special Advisor for Riding and Constituency Outreach, a key political and fundraising role.†Mr. Dion said.
Garth held public Town Hall meetings across Ontario and four western provinces this past summer listening to Canadians and taking their concerns, along with those from the people of Halton, to Ottawa. As well, Garth has been appointed to the Liberal Party’s powerful Priorities and Planning Committee, chaired by Mr. Dion and vice-chaired by Deputy Leader Michael Ignatieff.
The Priorities and Planning Committee provides key political, policy development and strategic planning advice to the Leader of the Official Opposition. As such, it is the primary planning and strategic decision-making body for the Liberal Party of Canada’s caucus in the Parliament of Canada.
“The confidence shown in me is deeply appreciated,†Turner says, “particularly since I have been with the Liberal caucus a relatively short time. It is further proof Stephane Dion understands what leadership is – working with the skills of those around him, instead of trying to run a one-man band. It fills me with confidence this is the kind of man who will excel in leading Canada.â€
Garth Turner joined the federal Liberal caucus in February, 2007, four months after being ejected from the Conservative caucus, for being outspoken in his criticism of Stephen Harper’s handling of the environment, the appointment to cabinet of David Emerson and issues of middle class taxation. Since then he has been a champion for many of those Canadians the Conservative government has betrayed, including two million income trust investors. He was also instrumental in bringing the issues of pension-splitting and income-splitting to Parliament. Thanks to his efforts, retired Canadian couples are now able to share their pension income and thereby reduce tax.
Garth Turner is also a leading populist in Parliament. Since being elected the second time in January of 2006, he has held more than 55 Town Hall meetings, and is the only MP to have an interactive online blog which has been visited by millions of Canadians.
This shuffle comes one week before Parliament reconvenes for its second session, and ensures that the Liberal Party will be best equipped to address the priorities of all Canadians
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140 comments ↓
Hey Garth..
Congrats!! u really deserve it
I’ll repost my congratulations here.
Congratulations on being named special advisor to internet tinfoil hat wearers. All your hard work shilling for CAITI has paid off!
EXCELLENT! Now we are Moving Forward!
Congrats Garth…You Earned it Big Time!
WOW Garth – you are so humble!!! You left out leaps tall buildings in a single bound and will teach Stephane Dion how to ALSO walk on water.
Mr Turner, can the Liberals abstain from voting on the Throne Speech and then vote on each piece of legislation on its own merit? Wouldn’t most voters see that as responsible?
Mr Garth TurnerMP,
You, Mr DionMP and his team need to keep up the good work and try to make things work better for everyone!
Have you seen this story about a new book on the oil sands? If you haven’t heard about ‘peak-oil’, everyone needs to take notice and start getting ready!
http://news.sympatico.msn.ctv.ca/TopStories/ContentPosting.aspx?feedname=CTV-TOPSTORIES_V2&newsitemid=CTVNews%2f20071009%2falberta_oil_071009&showbyline=True
In all human endeavour the degree of effort is a mearure of the result. Congratulations, Garth, you have been a real work horse. Too bad Harper didn’t recognize your many talents…obviously Mr. Dion thinks highly of you.
Mr Garth TurnerMP,
Remember to also thank Esther and your wife for for there help and support!
Congratulations, Garth.
Mr. Turner,
Now we have someone that knows how to tackel the DICTATOR. Our congratulation to you Sir, the Maritimes are with you.
Congratulations, Garth!!!!
Freak’in EH!!!
You have the full support of my wife and I.
Keep up the excellent work.
Zorph
Lorraine – stop pouting. Dion knew he needed to change things and he has done so.
You can’t deny that Garth hasn’t been working hard all summer getting the feel of Canadians and their concerns.
Bob Rae as Foreign Affairs critic against inexperienced Bernier who takes orders from Harper who has no worldly experience. Dion, Ignatieff, Rae working together -things are starting to happen.
Dion should approve throne speech saying the CPC are on trial and each item will be fought in the House issue by issue.
Congrats Garth!
Congratulations!
Congrat Garth … Now I know for sure Income trust investors will have true justice …Lets Have a election!!… so I can vote out this conservative party for their inept fiscal and income tax polices.
Great, Garth. Congrats!
online blog which has been visited by millions of Canadians.
Garth I only see a couple dozen people who frequent your blog. Sounds like you still have the conservative touch of distorting numbers.
As for your appointment, not likely to change the fortunes of the Liberals or the overall strategy. Bets are on for elections in 2009.
Congratulations Garth. You have shown yourself to be more than capable to handle this roll. From Ive seen and heard from you, you should do the liberal party very well.
Go get this country back on track!
Er, Garth, what does that make of your many very special advisors on this blog?
Congratulations, Garth!!
Keep up the good work Garth.
Congratulations!
Kudos, Garth and to paraphrase Greg W., Oakville (thanks Greg!), always remember those who helped you get where you are — Dorothy, Esther, etc. Now start creating and implementing strategies to boot the autokrat!
The following link is from rense.com (although it is self-explanatory) — in order to avoid death, stay away from life!
http://www.salon.com/mwt/feature/2007/10/08/cancer_q_a/index_np.html?source=whitelist
Is that the pic from when you joind the Liberals? or is he still scared of you?
From IMPOLITCAL
Dion says he wants to make Parliament work and will propose amendments to the throne speech, which lays out the government’s plans.
But he insists it’s up to Harper’s minority government to present a reasonable plan that meets some opposition concerns, including ending the Canadian combat mission in Afghanistan.
“We have not been obstructionist and we do not intend to be,” Dion said. “We will assess very carefully how well (the speech) addresses what Canada needs.
“If the prime minister wishes to reduce Parliament’s role to a rubber stamp, he alone will be responsible for bringing Canada into an election. . . If there is an election, we’ll be ready, we will win this election.”
And more of the firm talk:
“There has been some damage done. We are a great party. We can take up this challenge,” said Dion. “If the prime minister wants to underestimate the Liberals, he will do it at his own expense.”
Congrats Garth and I’d also like to thank Esther and your wife for their hard work and support.
I have come to the conclusion, like SLG, that Dion should support the Throne Speech and then fight each piece of legislation in the HoC.
You folks all have a good day tomorrow, if you are in Ontario, don’t forget to get out and vote for the candidate of your choice. Better to vote than not and complain after…make a difference!
Congratulations Mr. Turner.
Well deserved.
Advisor for Riding and Constituency Outreach – I hope this means ‘all MP’s are to be encouraged to be accessible and answerable to their constituents’.
My MP seems to be somewhat an elitist.
Now that you have a big hat to wear in the Liberal party, will you still be posting pictures of a gun toting goulish Prime Minister of Canada or will you have a new found maturity?
I doubt it. — Garth
Cool Garth.
Nice to see the hard work pay off.
Garth, now I know that M.Dion has a good eye for talent and may even listen to us.
When I spoke with you in Duncan, I mentioned what I and many of my friends lament, and that is the poor state of the Auditor General’s office. (Under funding and no real teath to get at the books or have charges brought where necessary.)
The A-G is the ONLY office that can realy protect the interests of us, the tax payers.
Please, please, please now that you have the next P.M.”s ear get it into Liberal policy, somewhere, that this underfunding will be stopped by a NEW Liberal government.
If M.Dion promotes this policy he will pick up lots of votes. Especially among the “Baby Boomers”. We vote.
Lets face it, it is the watch dogs that need protection so that they can protect “us”.
Congrats Garth. Here’s hoping for more MPTV reality tv with the inner circle =P
People are going to dig your style of transparent government.
Congrats Garth! Keep fighting the good fight!
Cheers,
joe
Congratulations, Garth.
Congratulations, Garth. Smart move on Dion’s part! I’m impressed.
It is truly unfortunate when a politician gets a head bigger than his body. Your ego writes cheques your body can’t cash.
Garth I too pass on my congratulations; I think you have a great resource here to mine ideas from, when you’ve separated out the chatter.
I heard Dion’s announcement with respect to the Throne Speech on tonight’s news, and from the above sampling and Dion’s announcement, find that a consensus may be forming on how to approach the next session of Parliament. I’d pay particular heed to what Herb has said – leave the boorishness to the likes of Van Loan, Baird and his protégé Polievre, and even Harper himself when he can’t resist to keep himself in check.
Now if does come to an election, I think a good advertisement would be one that takes Tom Flanagan’s Ten Commandments To Gain Power and illustrates how those recipes have been – and are – being applied by the Conservatives in their quest for power (I think this Throne Speech ultimatum would fit into the toughness/hardball category). People just don’t like to feel like they’re being manipulated.
Congratulations Garth, looking forward to more townhalls and maybe even a Web café …
Best,
-R
Glad to see Mr. Dion on the TV. throwing back the gauntlet!
Congrats. Tell us more about your new role and responsibilities!
Choices
posted by Garth Turner on 02.09.06 @ 11:26 pm | 405 Comments
“But, I arrived as the prime minister was appointing a floor-crossing Liberal and an “unelected” party official to his cabinet, which seemed to fly in the face of everything I had told voters about accountability and democracy. It also made me question the whole process, after eight months of knocking on doors to win my coveted seat in this magnificent stone building on the banks of the Rideau.”
Any comment on the appointment of “unelected” Bob Rae to foreign affairs critic????
He is not in government, nor forming government policy, unlike Mr. Emerson, Mr. Fortier and Ms. LeBreton. — Garth
Congratulations Garth!
It looks as though Stephane Dion knows a lot more about leadership, democracy, and human resources than Harper does. The fact that he’s seen fit to reward you for your hard work is encouraging indeed. I’ll be sure to write Mr. Dion to share my thoughts with him as well.
Isn’t it a great feeling when hard work pays off? Enjoy it and keep it up…the hard work that is!
Hi Garth,
Congratulations – what a deserving assignment. Mr. Dion must be proud of your very hard work and indeed accomplishments. We in Sidney, BC are with you all the way. Keep it up Garth (Wow what a treat to see this happen to a very honest and sincere person).
Gary
Bob Rae (Former NDP)…. Garth Turner (Former Conservative) Dion puts the two of them together in an important position. In the process overlooking elected MP’s thet were elected as Liberals. Guess that may somehow be confused with good leadership
It is a party welcoming and open to people of many backgrounds who have arrived at the same conclusion about our country. Jump in. This is the future. — Garth
I used to have a boss just like Harper.
I left that company and joined the competition. A group that believed in its employees/talents.
Well you know where this story is going.
My old company sank under that leaderships inability to recognize tallents (the goods one leave)
We bought my old company a few short years later.(takeover)
That company is now gone. The last I heard my old boss waas in a middle management job(messed up his resume-big time)
Harper is on the IDENTICAL path, and Garth you are on the same path I was on.
You are going to love the outcome Garth.
Reason:
Time makes it taste that much better.
Stay focused Garth.
You know what your voters want, and they know that you are listening.
Congrats-was a matter of time.
Congratulations Garth… and thanks for providing this great insight into the people of Canada…
Best wishes from Alberta.
Project Ploughshares failed to get any Calgary MP to meet members to discuss Afghanistan. Glad to have met you at Calgary town-hall meeting. Counting on you to give good advice to the leader of the opposition. Hope you get a cabinet post soon.
congratulations Garth you deserve it!
We are Moving On Up….
Congrats, I am sure that Harpo and Flatulence will be sending you cudos soon, still hearing rumors of Flatulence sending out feelers for the leadership if Harpo doesn’t perform well. Anyone else getting a wiff of sedition in the ranks?
Congratulations Garth, you deserve it
CONGRATULATIONS GARTH !!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
.. on your newly announced appointment within the Liberal party as a key adviser, fundraiser and bagman. We know you will do a knockout job for your leader Dion.
Can you fill us in on all your duties and objectives in this high profile role within the Liberal party?
You have been recognized and well rewarded for your stellar efforts on behalf of Dion and the Liberal party.
Keep on truckin’ …!!
(Reposted)
Way to go Garth! You and Dion deserve each other! You can read into that statement anything you wish.
A Well Deserved Appointment.Congratulations You’ve earned it.I’m glad that Mr.Dion is showing that he welcomes diverse Opinions, that he Can see and Use the Strengths of his MPs instead of Fearing them Ala Harper.Progressives sure Scare the HarperCONs I think it has something to do with a person with an “Open Mind” it scares them Shitless.Keep Up the Good Work.
Congratulations, Garth! Please keep up the hard work and help us dump Harper and the Cons. We need them out of government ASAP!
Congratulations, Garth (and congratulations, also, to Stephane)!
I really hope that this is only a preview of a new direction for government (once the election is over, that is) — one of actual consultation with the public as opposed to the reading of sermons and media releases with which we are now stuck. I for one am tired of being told what I think by political hacks who have never had the balls to ask!
Stephane and I have quite a few. — Garth
online blog which has been visited by millions of Canadians.
Garth I only see a couple dozen people who frequent your blog. Sounds like you still have the conservative touch of distorting numbers.
As for your appointment, not likely to change the fortunes of the Liberals or the overall strategy. Bets are on for elections in 2009.
By Bill R on 10.09.07 6:13 pm
Bill not everyone who reads Garth’s blog will leave a message, and that few dozen is quickly exceeded that very low baller estimate of yours. I expect that by tomorrow morning over a hundred people will have left Garth and Congrats message here.
Garth,
Congrats! But let’s remember this is politics and what have you done lately in the last 10 minutes?
How you going get some strength of feeling into the hearts of Canadians for the Liberal Party?
Congratulation Garth…Shows Dion has respect and value for a guy who puts constituents first…even when the constituents are living outside your riding where our elected representatives are muzzled and afraid to speak. Democracy will prevail.
Thank you, your wife, Esther and everyone else involved for all your hard work bringing the voice of the people front and centre. And thank you for helping fight the lies, betrayal and myths Harper and Flaherty have been propogating about Income Trusts.
Congratulations Garth on your new roles within the Liberal Party of Canada! You have truly earned them with your hard work and dedication to not only YOUR constituents but to all Canadians. I too hope to see you soon as a Liberal Cabinet Minister (perhaps in Finance?)! Thank you and best wishes!
Nice meeting you in Owen Sound, Mr. Turner. Congratulations on the appointment. It’s an encouraging sign, for the LPC. You have been a force in keeping the momentum moving forward. Much appreciated.
My congratulations to you Garth & thank you so much for speaking up for all Canadians.
Have a good evening Irene
Congratulations to you Garth, and to Mr. Dion for demonstrating his leadership with this appointment.
Congratulations, Garth;
Wonderful to see merit and talent recognized. This appointment (and the others today as well) are a great step forward.
I laughed out loud at the comment Dion made about fishing at Harrington Lake.
Please pass on a big thank you to your family and your team. We appreciate the sacrifices they have made to share you with the rest of the country.
Way to go Garth!!!
Go make a difference and bring an end to this CONservative government.
[...] Garth Turner has been appointed as Dion’s Special Advisor for Riding and Constituency Outreach. Now, what I don’t understand is: why is this important enough to be made public. As a [...]
Congratulations Garth! I am so happy
for you. I think Dion will be well
rewarded for his choice. This blog gives
us the opportunity to talk with an MP, who is willing to listen. This is very
unusual. We should all be grateful.
Progressives sure Scare the HarperCONs I think it has something to do with a person with an “Open Mind†it scares them Shitless.Keep Up the Good Work.
By SUE on 10.09.07 7:42 pm
I couldn’t agree with you more, Sue.
The Harper Party is incapable of grasping the big picture and understanding what Canadians want from their government.
Mr. Dion should not fear going to the electorate for a minute. He’ll find support coming from a wide range of Canadians and not the least of those, Progressives like Mr. Turner and the least of those progressives like myself.
Good choice Mr. Dion. Congrats Garth/Family/Volunteers/Paid workers.
Please give us our Canada back!
I am more than pleased to pass on my heart felt congrads to you personally. But if I may Garth pass on my thanks to all “Canadains who believe in Canada” and worked hard in support of your lost tory tour. It is ovious to all that your leadership coupled with your most professional talent as a MP inspired many to work 24/7 to make it the success it was. For those who you allowed voice sometimes in a manner un-becoming to their representation of a Canadian I also say thanks. Perhaps that is what freedom of speech is about, it would be so nice however if PMSH & Co would listen to Canadians in the same manner rather than try and Bully, other elected MP’s via one sided rules that let to news conference that was called to let the taxpayers know they are not to be heard either! After all we do pay his salary and allow him to live in style and fly to Afghanistan for photo opts along with his personal staff and make up artists.
Garth of course this is only the second period of PMSH’s game, but he may have played his cards too soon, as Canadians from Coast to Coast to Coast now see him for what he truly is “A Bully in Sheeps Clothing” with many other hidden sour treats in his basket hopping to feed Canadians en route to the polling boths.
Remember 77% did not vote for PMSH and those that did wanted him to govern with a majority, not set himself up as judge,jury and King Dictator.
“Politics is the art of Compromise”
Stephane Dion know this best and soon the MSH must give him credit or loose their professional standards in the eyes of Canadians.
Well Deserved.
Let’s roll………
Now dions ship will sink like a stone.
Dear Stephane,
I hope that this message finds your family and
yourself well. Sadly, as I write today, Stephen Harper
is taking our great nation in the wrong direction. He
told us that the liberals govern Canadians with a
sense of entitlement and yet he leads Canada as though
he is wearing earplugs. He told us that the liberals
will steal our money and proceeded to raise taxes in
the lowest income bracket. He and Jim Flaherty have
betrayed Canadians and deserve to see their political
careers in their rear view mirrors!
A little about me…I’m 35 years old, single and rent
an apartment in beautiful Oakville, Ontario. I
recently moved from Garth Turner’s riding of Halton to
Bonnie Brown’s Oakville riding (a five minute walk). I
was content in allowing Canadian politics to flow down
to me until Garth challenged his constituents to
become involved and to communicate with him. I
answered his call and he and I have corresponded quite
regularly since. Although we don’t always agree, I’m
of the opinion that Garth is an outstanding MP. He has
prooven to us that he’d much rather face an angry
party leader than an angry constituent. He has made it
abundantly clear that he is well aware of who he works
for.
I find today’s announcement of Garth’s important
appointments most encouraging in these difficult
political times. Today’s appointments speak to the
stark differences in the leadership styles that
Stephen Harper and yourself employ. When you reward an
MP for listening to Canadians as opposed to dictating
policy to them, you do not only empower an MP, you
empower Canadians.
When Stephen Harper and Jim Flaherty caved to NDP
demands to pass their budget they told us that
“Canadians don’t want to go back to the polls”. That’s
right, THEY told US. I know that the timing is not
perfect, but when it comes to the vote on the thrown
speech please remember what it is that Canadians want.
Although I can’t speak for all Canadians, I want
Harper out. We deserve much better!
Thank you for taking the time to listen and all the
best,
Andrew
Congratulations Mr Turner
I know you are a very hard worker and one day I would like to see you as Prime Minister, I hope you are bilinqual.
Keep up the good work.
Rose
Congratulations – excellent role for you. Perfect!
Liz
Mr Garth TurnerMP,
I’m still working my way throw
Al Gore’s book, ‘The ASSAULT ON REASON’.
http://www.chapters.indigo.ca/books/search?keywords=al%20gore%20assault%20on%20reason&pageSize=10
I’m finding it a good read! Now up to page 132.
For good or bad, some of it is reinforcing my darker beliefes in man kind. Or should that be the dark force that the Bushes/PMSH are fronts for.
I’m sure glade Canada still has freedom of expression. That there are still some good people out in the world trying to help make things better in there on small way, like Al Gore, You, Mr. Dion and many others.
Remember, Resistance is NOT futile!
The sociopathic madmen of this work will only kill us all and make the planet uninhabatable if we let them.
Garth, Garth, Garth, .. do I have to teach you everything?
Special Advisor for Caucus Outreach = Guy who will fetch my cafe-latte and do my laundry.
But, you sure are “special”, in a Cosmo Kramer kind of way.
You are too kind. — Garth
any chance you’re gonna post a video of the actual announcement/press conference?
Nope. — Garth
By Andrew on 10.09.07 9:35 pm
Andrew you are critical of the Conservatives “caving to the NDPs demands” Were you not politically involved when the Liberals added 4 billion to the budget in 2005 to win the NDPs support?
congratulations, reminds me it is time to make another contribution, build up the war chest and toss the PC’s out of office,it’s time the people speak up.
Congratulations
I sure wouldn’t like to have your work load!
I wish we had more MPs like you.
Do i ahve to call you sir now?
Contrat’s.
Merely genuflect. — Garth
Congratulations Mr. Turner! Mr. Dion has shown that he is willing to work with those around him and to utilize their various talents and abilities. One things I’ll givde the CONS… when their ship sinks, they will truly be able to blame it all on PMSH. His one man show is wearing thin pretty quickly.
All the best, and keep up the great work. You and Mr. Dion have given us a bit of hope.
Congratulations Garth. I just knew that sooner or later the Libs would recognize the value of a descendant of Wild Bill in their show. Must keep the public both informed and entertained. Keep the guns blazing.
Thanks, pardner, but my great uncle was Buffalo Bill Cody. Just a headline-chasing, rebel showboat self-promoter. No resemblance. — Garth
Mr Garth TurnerMP,
Another example of the corporate run mass media trying to manipulate the masses. There bosses didn’t like the poll results so they pulled it.
http://www.lewrockwell.com/blog/lewrw/archives/015997.html
The mass media doesn’y always reflect the truth. That’s not what they are payed to do.
Mr Garth TurnerMP,
FYI Anyone: Save $$$, see short vidio on new CFL light bulbs to find out!
.
http://thecompasspoint.blogspot.com/
You continue to crave power and recognition at any cost Garth. You will make a good Liberal.
Congrats, and onward to the next step in digital democracy.
Exactly how far does your caucus outreach?
Looks like your new appointment has really scared the conservative bloggers Garth – lots of comments from them – the type to be expected. I sincerely congratulate you, your excellent staff and all of your supporters – on your new responsibilities – you will be a wonderful asset to the opposition forces of reason against the rigid philosophy of the PMSH and his government.
Congratulations Garth,
Your embracing of new technology to better serve democracy has been rewarded. Keep up the good work.
Man Garth, I don’t think I have enough pixels for the name tags, LOL I’m surprised Milton Man hasn’t show up to “CONgratulate” you yet.
How you going get some strength of feeling into the hearts of Canadians for the Liberal Party?
By Blog Smacked on 10.09.07 8:05 pm
By doing exactly what he has been doing for the last few months. Listening & talking to ordinary Canadians.
Now dions ship will sink like a stone.
By Haltonjohn on 10.09.07 9:35 pm
Your Mr.Harper might just be the one doing the sinking & hopefully will take you & your troll fiends with him. Better be able to swim buddy because even the creatures of the sea would spit you out like garbage.
Congratulations Garth,all the best to you!I think Mr.Dion is putting together a winning team!
“You can’t deny that Garth hasn’t been working hard all summer getting the feel of Canadians and their concerns.
By slg on 10.09.07 6:07 pm”
Yes indeed you can deny that. Garth is so full of hate for Harper that his partisanship will not allow him to “feel” the concerns of Canadians. He is only interested in his own self preservation, not Canadians.
But then again, thats what it means to be a liberal. The culture of entitlement lives on!
Hey their Special Advisor Garth to the Leader .. to get into the inner sanctum, you now need to:
1. Learn French so you can extend your influence into Quebec. God knows Dion needs help in La Belle Provence, and,
2. Learn to fly fish so you can spend some quality recreational and leisure time with Dion.
It’s either that or cut bait … LOL
Doug Finley actually pays you to come up with stuff like that? – Garth
Great news! Congratulations Mr. Turner! Kudos to you, to Mr. Dion and to Mr. Brent Fullard.
Courage is never an easy thing nor is it a given. Canadians have been abused for TOO LONG and our democracy has been badly eroded. We have been lied to and stolen from and ridiculed. But not fooled. All three of you have remained loyal in your determination to rectify the heinous injustices that have been and are being wrought on most Canadians.
Garth,
Heartfelt congratulations! Your Lost Tory Tour and the huge response this weblog receives every day are proof that Canadians will respond to more than big bucks spent on advertising, especially the negative kind the Harperites splash around with their bags of money.
You are a breath of fresh air and I sincerely hope that every Liberal MP and candidate follow your lead and engage the public at every opportunity across the country. This populist approach is what has been lacking in Canadian politics for many years, and is a totally foreign concept to control-freak Harper. The Liberals do not need bags of money to beat Harper… they need your passion, dedication, and willingness to go out and listen to constituents.
Let’s get all those Liberal MPs fully engaged with the public and win back their hearts and minds. Harper thinks he has cornered the Liberal party with his recent antics. He has done the exact opposite… by making virtually every piece of legislation a ‘confidence’ vote his has given Dion the opportunity to pick the timing of the next election.
The recent shadow cabinet shuffles were terrific. It combines three of the brighest minds (Dion, Ignatieff, and Rae) and presents a united front to the neoCons. This is the time for the Liberals to show they are indeed united, have the policies and programs Canada needs, and are willing to reach out to the hearts and minds of ordinary Canadians.
Congratulations, Garth, you have earned it!
Gord
Congratulations Garth. Your inclusive approach will now be even more influential in the future of your party. I look forward to experiencing the same form of representation from Briony Penn in the relatively near future.
Congratulations Garth!
I’d genuflect but it sounds like a rude gesture tho I know it’s not and I’d curtsy but I’d likely fall over so instead I will send a long distance **hug**.
Geo
I am really happy for you Garth. Now let’s propose some smaller government and lower income taxes !
Dion has my vote. Every good leader has a rough start.
Garth this will be a waste of time because I think if the Liberals sit on their hands or don’t attend to vote for the throne speech PM Harper will consider that a matter of non confidence and will walk to the GG’s office to disolve parliament. After all how can the government govern when the official opposition says it opposes its agenda by not voting. Sorry for your luck Garth. So much for your advisory role. How will you ever be able to get through the thick skull of you arrogant, narccisitic “leader” how to do things better. It ain’t going to happen my friend.
Now dions ship will sink like a stone.
By Haltonjohn on 10.09.07 9:35 pm
Ouch! I bet that one hurt Garth! Man oh man, these cons are ruthless!
Whats next? Hair pulling? Pinching?
Watch yer back buddy! lol
Congratulations Garth,
Your town hall forums and your single minded pursuit of income tax reform should be an inspiration to your Liberal colleagues. Mr. Dion has shown some courage and character as well by bringing you further into your new party ahead of some other long time Liberals.
Perhaps there is hope for the Liberals after all.
Congratulations! Gota hand it to Dion, he’s found the perfect jobs for you.
Hope you liked the pirate flag I dropped off Friday. The lady at the desk looked rather alarmed, but I figured you’d get it.
(BTW, we have to talk genealogy some time.)
That is great news. Congratulations.
Canada today saw what a great PM Stephane Dion will be.
Congrats????????
Garth, for someone who sounded the trumpet so loudly against the Liberal party in years gone by, I am saddened and surprised to watch you lose even more of your integrity.
When the “party” throws Mr. Dion off the Liberal sinking ship, you will be one of the casualties on it. Your short-sightedness has just sealed your fate within the party by hitching up to Stehane’s wagon.
What ever happened to all you Liberals? Don’t you all remember the sponsorship scandal, the gun registry, brown paper bags full of money, Kyoto…need I go on. This party is rotten to the core and we need to be reminded of this every week.
Garth, you are one of the hardest working MP’s on capital hill, but you seem to be so ambitious for making some kind of a name for yourself in the political ring that you have forgotten how to just work for the people. What do you see when you look in the mirror every morning? Are you proud of how you have morphed into a power hungry liberal.
I feel really, truely sorry for you! But, you have now made your bed, enjoy the nightmare!
he he he (giggle)
Good one Garth! Congrats- well deserved yadda yadda.
Oh to be a fly on the wall and see Finley and the boys reading that announcement eh?
Garth, congratulations and keep up the good work. The conservatives are getting nervous, even causing inflated polls to be published.
Well done Garth
You’ll make an admirable Special Advisor to Stephane.
The picture looks to me like a Father/Son portrait. Could there be a wee bit of nepotism in the offing? Then that begs tghe question; which is the Father, and which is the son?
Hmmm…
Congratulations, Garth! This is great news.
la tribu a recueilli, notre souhait a vrai venu, la bataille est maintenant jointe.
toujours prêt …Félicitations!
Great Garth!
Now how about an election?
Vote down the garbage from the throne!
Bite the bullet…we will lose (probably another minority) but we have to get rid of this semi-articulate charisma vacuum we have as a leader and get a proper one for a real go in a year’s time.
And stop trying to pretend he’s the best thing since sliced bread. He should be teaching an undergrad course in sociology.
Roger
Yes indeed you can deny that. Garth is so full of hate for Harper that his partisanship will not allow him to “feel†the concerns of Canadians. He is only interested in his own self preservation, not Canadians.
But then again, thats what it means to be a liberal. The culture of entitlement lives on!
By jim on 10.09.07 11:14 pm
Interesting you should say that, the one common thread I have heard from T.V commentators is that it is Harper’s hatred of Liberals that will eventually destroy him because he cannot govern only campaign.
Interesting how many Cons here just cannot bring themselves to have class and be civil regarding this appointment. This is one of those time when if you have nothing to say that is good, say nothing. I have noted that some have done just that, and that shows some integrity.
Congrats to Turner& Dion.You have regained
a couple more vote abstainers from Wpg
North.Don’t let Harper steal your platform
He will gut it by making announcements
of your plans as is own,without knowing
how to implement & make it work.
JP(Wpg)
had the balls to ask!
Stephane and I have quite a few. — Garth
What? You and Stephane have more than two each!!! Wow! Can I see?
Leasa
P.S. How do you know how many he has?
The mythical ones are really, really big. — Garth
What do you see when you look in the mirror every morning? Are you proud of how you have morphed into a power hungry liberal.
I feel really, truely sorry for you! But, you have now made your bed, enjoy the nightmare!
By Greg on 10.10.07 12:40 am
When Garth looks in the mirror he is looking at someone who wants to make a positive difference in the lives of Canadians–to do that, you need to have some power. It isn’t power for power’s sake, but people like you don’t seem to get that. It is altruism. Look it up in the dictionary. (And while you are at it, check the spelling for “truly”.)
Your Mr.Harper might just be the one doing the sinking & hopefully will take you & your troll fiends with him.
By irene on 10.09.07 11:04 pm
I don’t think so. Latest Decima…
CPC – 35%
Libs – 28%
Coincidence?
Sources: $4.6 billion settlement in power plant air pollution case
Why can’t Canada have some balls (Mythical or real) like this?
Oh, yeah, forgot, we have Jonny Baird as Minister of Screeching directly connected to his Master PMSH, who is directly connected to Big Oil & Gas, which is centred in Calgary. One string pulls all!
Congrats Garth,
Let get er going…….
Congratulations!
Is that a gun in your pocket, or are you happy for me? — Garth
Har-dee-har-har. Truthfully, I’m happy for you. You switched parties and that would cripple most political careers. You’ve not only survived that, you’ve managed to move up. I would have to be willfully blind to ignore that, and it turns out that I’m not willfully blind. Who woulda thunk it?
But now you’ve got Liberal Party fundraising on your plate.
Though I wouldn’t wish that job on anyone, I know you’ll give it your best shot. And I’ll keep biting ankles from my little blog on behalf of my team. Hey, it’s just politics. There’s a lot more to life than that. That’s why I can snipe one moment and then congratulate the next. The trick is to step away from the politics and just imagine being the other guy for a moment. You’ve been rewarded and you’re enjoying the moment. I know I would be doing the same.
The sniping can wait a day, I think.
Cheers!
Steve Janke has a soul. My friends will be astonished, delighted. — Garth
Garth, do you think it’s appropriate for Dion to have appointed an unelected person to a shadow cabinet position within the Liberal party??
It’s an interesting way to bring into the loop a man the prime minister it trying to keep out by refusing to call a by-election, doncha think? And I hope you asked PMSH how he continues to justify having an unelected bagman senator in charge of the massive Public Works ministry. — Garth
Garth you were itneresting at one time for your promise, now you are political opportunist.
what a waste of time
You’re right. Not dead yet. — Garth
Garth,
I would encourage you to ask Dion and the rest of the Lib Party to either vote for or against the Throne Speech. Abstaining from the vote and then voting on each piece of legislation later will seriously diminish the role, tradition, and purpose of the Throne Speech, look irresponsible, and make the Lib Party look indecisive, desperate, and weak…. Abstaining from the vote is like not voting in a general election and then expecting to have the right to complain for the entire duration of the government… I’m sure constituents in Halton want to know where you, in particular, stand on issues – especially given the inevitability of an election sooner or later…
Steve Janke has a soul. My friends will be astonished, delighted.
Sheesh. But then people only see me through the blog, and that is such a tiny window with which to view anyone. See me playing with my kids or helping around the house or getting dinner ready, and people wouldn’t be astonished that I can take pleasure in the good fortune of others.
If your friends are delighted as well, then I guess that’s a good thing.
Garth, do you think it’s appropriate for Dion to have appointed an unelected person to a shadow cabinet position within the Liberal party??
It’s an interesting way to bring into the loop a man the prime minister it trying to keep out by refusing to call a by-election, doncha think? And I hope you asked PMSH how he continues to justify having an unelected bagman senator in charge of the massive Public Works ministry. — Garth
By Linda on 10.10.07 10:34 am
_________________________________________
Perhaps you misunderstood my question. It’s about Dion appointing Bob Rae to the prestigious Foreign Affairs file, which has nothing to do with PMSH or Senator Fortier.
I just wanted to have your opinion on the appointment of Rae to Foreign Affairs, which seems a bit odd at this time. Why does Dion need unelected ex-NDP Rae to represent the Liberal party on such issues as Afghanisan? I don’t think Rae can visit Afghanistan like you and Dion can. What’s the purpose of naming Bob Rae to the shadow cabinet?
Maybe it’s because he a smart guy and a talented and experienced politician. He is unelected right now (as I said) because PMSH does not have the courtesy or guts to call a by-election. Once he does, Mr. Rae will become a key part of the new Conservative nightmare. — Garth
This appointment certainly puts to rest any questions of Dion’s good judgement.
because PMSH does not have the courtesy or guts to call a by-election. Once he does, Mr. Rae will become a key part of the new Conservative nightmare. — Garth
By Linda on 10.10.07 11:09 am
Nay nay Mr. Garth! Your leader keeps saying he will/will not (depends on his mood of the day) bring the House down over the throne speech. Mr. Harper would have to think seriously about calling a by-election when we may be going into an election so soon. We just as of TODAY finished the provincial election in Ontario. Why would you want to confuse voters by running by-elections as the same time? Is this how the Liberals would do it? Throw cost and caution to the wind? Wow. Fact is; the liberals are all over Mr. Harper for letting unelected people work on tax payer’s behalf, yet it’s somehow okay when they do it.
I would be more than willing to believe your spin when I see you criticize just one thing you new leader says or does, the way you did Mr. Harper and you will in the aftermath are a cherished member of his party. Just one thing. Also, I’ll know where you stand on credibility when I see you stand when the vote comes for the Throne speech. If you don’t stand up and vote against it, then I know you are full of baloney. If Liberals are ‘out sick’ or any vote for it, then they must back Mr. Harper on all that’s in it, unless they are just looking out for their own interests by avoiding an election. Put up, or shut up??
Leasa
P.S. Are you and Deni brothers? Since he grew his Garth beard, I can hardly tell ya apart.
He’s the one with the flak jacket. — Garth
I just wanted to have your opinion on the appointment of Rae to Foreign Affairs, which seems a bit odd at this time. Why does Dion need unelected ex-NDP Rae to represent the Liberal party on such issues as Afghanisan? I don’t think Rae can visit Afghanistan like you and Dion can. What’s the purpose of naming Bob Rae to the shadow cabinet?
Maybe it’s because he a smart guy and a talented and experienced politician. He is unelected right now (as I said) because PMSH does not have the courtesy or guts to call a by-election. Once he does, Mr. Rae will become a key part of the new Conservative nightmare. — Garth
By Linda on 10.10.07 11:09 am
________________________________________
You say “Maybe..”? Are you uncertain about Bob Rae as a Liberal with your somewhat reserved view?
Surely, the important Foreign Affairs shadow cabinet position deserves a currently elected MP, such as Ignatieff or even Coderre who is now stranded in Afghanistan.
Doesn’t Bob Rae’s appointment to Foreign Affairs somewhat undermine others in the Liberal party?
I think we’re leaving that role for you. — Garth
This appointment certainly puts to rest any questions of Dion’s good judgement.
By Rodger Grant on 10.10.07 11:20 am
Your comment puts to rest any question of your credibility.
By Linda on 10.10.07 11:44 am
Gosh, will wonders ever cease?* Linda Lovelace, of all people, has become interested in politics.
*Will CSIS ever wonder?
Will the Liberal whip make sure all Liberals are in the house when it comes to voting on the confidence motions or will some Liberal M.P.s be doing committee work like when the 07 budget was voted on.
You say “Maybe..� Are you uncertain about Bob Rae as a Liberal with your somewhat reserved view?
Surely, the important Foreign Affairs shadow cabinet position deserves a currently elected MP, such as Ignatieff or even Coderre who is now stranded in Afghanistan.
Doesn’t Bob Rae’s appointment to Foreign Affairs somewhat undermine others in the Liberal party?
I think we’re leaving that role for you. — Garth
By Linda on 10.10.07 11:44 am
_______________________________________
Well Garth, I think Dion appointing you as a Special Advisor is an excellent decision, but I question the appointment of Bob Rae as Foreign Affairs critic. I suspect you can’t go against the leader’s choices, but I thought you should be ask your opinion on this appointment.
Thank you for your responses, and I think you will be a big winner as advisor to the Liberal leader, Dion or somebody else, but not Rae.
You’ve worked really hard and you deserve this “promotion.”
I’m really pleased that Dion recognizes how valuable your communications and PR skills are to the party.
People I know who have had the opportunity to sit down and talk to Dion come away full of respect for his ideas and intellect. Try to get him in front of as many people as possible — I do believe he’s a natural foil for steve harper, and heck nobody likes that guy.
So, if Dion doesn’t win a majority in the Garth predicted soon-to-be-coming election, shouldn’t all the Libs blame Garth? After all you are the “Special” advisor. I always thought you were special Garth.
Sorry for the late response. But I would like to congratulate you on your new role.
I have been following your blog with interest. Keep up the good work.
Today, the provincial Liberal can count on my vote and, if there is a federal election this year, the federal Liberal can count on my vote too.
Grace
Congratulations, Garth – good to see your hard work recognized and rewarded.
And, thanks again for your trip west. It was a pleasure to meet you and Dorothy at your Mount Royal College townhall in Calgary.
Bill R, who sees only a couple of dozen regular visitors on your blog, hasn’t thought about the rest of us who visit to read, not to write. As I have done for two years.
This is a great place to learn – in spite of the few regulars whose sole reason to post here is to attack and belittle, not contribute.
Gord—o
A sparkling rejoinder- you’ve stung me to the quick!
All I can assume is that you read the sentence and don’t believe Dion has good judgement.
Congratulations Garth!
I’m galvanized. I am contacting my Liberal MP to make a donation and offer my help. This was a great shake-up using Turner and bringing in Rae. I have this feeling that things could come together sooner rather than later.
It’s up to Iggy and Rae. As far as Kennedy goes, he’s got a great record but the jury is still out for me on him.
Love Dryden – Alot!
Martha works!
Isn’t it time for some by-elections? We need to get these guys in the house. Dion needs to vote for the Throne Speech putting Harper on trial and fight it issue by issue. Would Harper call an election himself this Winter, before the by-elections? I don’t know.
When is the date that he HAS to call them? Anyone know?
For some reason, today is a good day to be a Liberal. It’s been awhile. I look forward to more
Cheers all. Congrats again Garth. Good Luck.
A well deserved; critically important appointment.
Using expertise and experience from within the ranks is a sign of true leadership which, because of its absence will rebound shortly on Messer’s Harper and his PMO!