Only a government that wants to pass laws without discussion or scrutiny would do this. I will speak on the issue in the House Thursday morning. Your input is welcomed. As always, I will include your words.
The title is C-50 and its name is the 2008 Budget Implementation Bill. It sets into law the last Jim Flaherty budget, the centerpiece of which (said the minister) was the tax-free savings plan which seems to have passed like a summer rainstorm.
But this bill does not stop there.
Attached to it is a provision which is extraordinary, meant to kill legislation passed by a majority of MPs, which would make contributions to RESPs, registered education savings plans, tax-deductible. Promoted for years by my colleague Dan McTeague, that simple provision gave hope to millions of families that they could improve their finances while securing the future of their children. But Mr. Flaherty said it would be too costly, and his government is striking it down. As I said, extraordinary.
But this bill does not stop there.
Knowing C-50 will force a confidence vote, and that an election is unlikely this week, the legislation also changes the way we allow immigrants into Canada. What does that have to do with implementing a budget? Nothing, of course. These provisions are just there. Stuck on. To avoid them coming in a bill of their own. To escape the bright light of committee hearings, expert witnesses and sober second thought.
By putting them in a money bill, of course, they cannot be amended, altered or deleted, without it all becoming a confidence issue upon which the government will fall. The legal niceties might understandably elude most Canadians, but it makes it damn hard for an MP to do his job.
In case you missed it, the immigration changes would reduce the number of applications the government accepts, and give to the minister, Diane Finley (wife of Doug Finley, Stephen Harper’s chief political operative) sweeping new powers to pick and choose the kinds of immigrants she thinks are acceptable. It eliminates the right of every application to get a fair review, and thus, it is failed and flawed. It smacks of the kind of anti-immigramt Reform Party intolerance that I ran against as a Progressive Conservative 15 years ago. It was crap then. It’s crap now.
So, this is not a procedure you should be proud of. The budget bill should enact a budget. It should not rescind the will of the people. It should not redefine the faces of our new citizens. And changes so fundamental should not be crow bared into a money bill, then pushed through the nation’s legislature, just for the sheer partisan hell of it.
Your comments matter to me. I’ve got time. It’s a long speech, and a worthy country.
225 comments ↓
Blah blah blah,whine whine whine.If you don’t like it,vote against it, or SHUT THE HELL UP.I repeat,if you don’t like it, vote against it or SHUT THE HELL UP.I repeat………
Will this finally bring on the election that many have been calling for or will the liberals abstain from this vote as well?
which is more noble? to call the government’s bluff NOW on their american-style bill tactics and chance not winning the election, or to wait for the right moment when your ducks are more in order, win, and rescind this stupid piece of legislation?
tough call, garth. either way, when the election comes, i’ll not be voting for the reform party.
cheers,
peter in olympia
Something the Harper, O’Flaherty, Finley, Flanagan should remember about immigration to North America
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=1w4RozT0DGc
The Conservatives don’t want an open debate on immigration because they know it will unleash a flood of bigotry from their supporters just like the immigration debate did in the US.
Funny thing about the immigration bill.The bipartisan people interviewed on MSM TV all say that the change is a good thing that will speed up entry for people we need in this country,I.E.doctors,carpenters,welders, etc.,and that the lieberals should be fully supportive of it as it is inclusive to all,so where is the usual lieberal whining coming from this time?
Vote againts the bill then. But of course you won’t.
Face it Garth your on the sidelines. But your rants are funny.
Garth everything you say is correct and important but totally useless unless the Liberals are prepared to DO SOMETHING . . . Vote NO! for a change.
I’m ready for an election, so pitter patter . . . let’s get at ‘er.
The Libs will have a chance to vote against the immigration plan in the House of Commons , right?
No. Read the posting. The bill does not separate the immigration changes for separate scrutiny. Would you like crayons? — Garth
One of Frank Zappa’s songs is “Stinkfoot”, about smelly sneakers and the feet that inhabit them.
For what it’s worth, if CRAP puts these bills together and a confidence vote is eventually called for, then it’s time to roll the dice, put money where the mouth is, have an election and get rid of the smelly, stinking CRAP party forever.
If harpo’s and dimjim’s deceptive lies are made a focal part of Liberal ads, then this is a really good opportunity to make a positive change for the better for our country; it will also annoy the hell out of dubya, as he will have to find someone else to dump on.
The only fly in the ointment would be harpo’s (supposed) promises to give Quebec more money.
Mind you, IT investors already know about broken promises, a.k.a. LIES.
‘Tisn’t life that matters! ‘Tis the courage you bring to it. Hugh Walpole, I believe.
If you don’t stand for something, then you will fall for anything. Have the courage of your convictions. Act boldly, better still, act as if you have the good of Canada as your guiding principle, which, indeed you have and communicate your rightiousness on the matter. Damn the torpedoes. If you let the Conservatives swab the deck with you as their mop on this one you will stay wet for a long time. Tomorrow is another day; make it your day.
Bring on the election.
Mr. Speaker, contrary to their propaganda slogans…
This Conservative government is not open, honest or transparent.
This Conservative government does not “ply by the rules.”
This Conservative government is not burdened by the facts.
In fact, Mr. Speaker…
This Conservative government regularly misleads the House, lies to Canadians and blacks out access to information documents.
This Conservative government regularly obstructs parliamentary committees, procedures and witnesses, and the will of the people.
This Conservative government regularly creates policy on the back-of-an-envelope, without benefit of thought or objective factual based evidence.
In brief, Mr. Speaker…
This Conservative government is incompetent and down right undemocratic.
And I’m just speaking about yesterday’s events.
Lets get cracking, get the neo-cons what they want, and lets see where is goes. I’m getting fad up waiting, and letting these bastards do what they want. They only have 16% of the 36 % of the people that voted last time, Lets go Garth.
If we loose, we will have a new leader, and then we get them.
Good luck.
So, this is not a procedure you should be proud of. The budget bill should enact a budget. It should not rescind the will of the people.
There is the answer I would give Garth. Vote AGAINST IT.
We do not need the American ‘ammendment’ version of democracy, better known as Pork Barrel, and Scoff Law legislation!
Harper Rules,
Turner Drools!!!!!
Why dont you have section in your speech about how important to democracy it is when people actually vote instead of just whining about things.
You can certainly vote against Bill C-50, which includes the immigration changes, so the Liberals can, in fact, vote against it in the House of Commons. If you’re strongly oppossed to the immigration changes, and all the other issues you raise, you have every opportunity to vote against Bill C-50.
You can keep the crayons; they probably provide you with hours of entertainment.
The Lieberals under Moscow’s former man in Ottawa, red Pierre Trudeau, passed legislation without public or other scrutiny. This was the worst piece of legislation in Canada’s history. It was none other than the Official Languages Act. The procedure for the passage of this act was for the 3 party leaders to speak and then vote on this discriminatory, divisive bill which, given the discrimination against the majority is nothing less than a devious reversal of the Battle of the Plains of Abraham in 1759 and hence an act of war.
Garth Liberal MP’s can only huff and puff and appear outraged for so long before those few Canadians who are currently listening..tune OUT.
Do you really wonder why voter turnout was so poor at the byelections? Look in the mirror!
Mr. Dion is clearly out of touch with reality…“Liberal Leader Stéphane Dion says the next federal election will be fought over the environment.”
I doubt that very much! Maybe you should whisper in the leader’s ear it the economy stupid! You have clearly articulated, and I agree, the financial problems we face and which will get worse because the cupboard is bare, will be the more urgent focus of voters. Dion is a fool if he thinks regular Canadians who are worried about living day to day will care MORE about the long term issues!
I’m with the CONservatives on this one, the Liberals need to show up, vote no, and start representing Canadians and their constituents instead of the LPC!
Garth, whether we are ready or not for an election, this kind of thing can’t be tolerated. Please vote against it.
It’s Time to bring this Farce of a Government DOWN. I’m sick to Death of every God Damn CON in Canada.
If Progressive Conservatives could drop kick Mulroney’s Arse to the Kerb than I think Harper’s Fat Flabby Arse is a Bigger and Better target and much more deserving of the Boot and I hope it a Bloody Big Hobnailed Boot .No!!!! wait a minute you’ll need Hip waders for that POS.
The Progressives will either go Green or Liberal for I can’t believe that True PCers would ever Vote for a Regressive Reformer.There isn’t an Honest Progressive left in the HArperCON Party they’ve All been Booted or Just too Cowardly to Open thier mouths.
NEW poll shows Liberals are tied with the CONS.No matter how much Harper Tries to Buy ‘friends’ the majority of Canadians just aren’t as INTOLERANT as the HArperCONS. I think Most of us are Sick of The Bigots,Blowhards and Bimbos that are the HArperCONS.Bring on the Election the Crazy Relatives have almost Ruined the Damn House.
Oh Garth Loved Your Point of Order about Time someone told that Arsehole Speaker to do his Job.He sure has Let the CONS off with alot of Bullshit in the House and I notice he was Quick to jump on Goodale during QP when he Ignores or “Doesn’t Hear” the CON Insults.Keep up the good Work it sure as Hell Makes the Trolls Squeal. A Sure Sign of How well you’re doing is the Amount of Troll Shit we have to Wade through when we come to your blog and today you Need Hip Boots just to get IN.:>)
“And I’m just speaking about yesterday’s events.”
By Robert Gibbs on 04.02.08 9:37 pm
P.S.:
This speech is available for the low, low sum of only $122,000!
As someone said previously non partisan people including a former Director of Immigration has said this is a very good idea and about time it was brought in. He said when the Liberals brought in changes to the immigration act (2001) this was the one area that they neglected and now the conservatives as usual are cleaning up a Liberal mess. The only thing the Liberals are afraid of is maybe losing some potential voters coming in through their old open door policy. Boy Turner you really have become a Liberal flunkie.
Meanwhile… Bell Canada decides to take over the Canadian Internet… What is our hero doing??? Well… according to his “Help Centre” in Halton… DRUMS PLEASE: He is “monitoring” the situation… YEAH!! F*CKING RIGHT! UP YOURS! Garth! Get off your ass and DO SOMETHING!!!
The latest Harris Decima poll puts the Liberals at a virtual tie with the Conservatives. With the possible sale of MDA, opening up the Constitution, this Immigration bill, Cadman, Brenda Martin, plus, plus, plus, These problems with the Conservatives are are striking a cord with many different groups of Canadians. As Decima says, people are losing their appetite for the Conservatives presently in power. People like Mike Duffy, Chantal Herbert, L.Ian McDonald, Jean Pierre ? ( the reporter who was in the Liberal Party) but seems to run it, and Dion, down at every opportunity, are just pick, pick, picking away at the Liberals. Like a steady drip of water, this will have an effect eventually. I’m an immigrant who CHOSE Canada and I hate to see the very values I chose denigrated by this government. PLEASE vote against them and their American values. If I had wanted to be an American, that’s where I would have chosen to go!
So, Diane Finley, and through her, Doug Finley et al, will be allowed to pick those applications that are to be fast-tracked. I assume this will include quite a large group of Iraqis who have been displaced by the war there and who have been promised quick entry into Canada ( was this a deal made by Harper with Bush in return for 1000 troops and helicopters in Afghanistan?)
Finley says that Visas previously issued can now be denied or cancelled without cause.
Will she also discriminate based on religious affiliation? medical history?
Just like the Reformers to have a two-tiered system. If you have the money or the connections you go through the express lane, no questions asked.
What a farce.
You and your *great leader* forfeited your status as an effective opposition long ago. You made this bed, now lie in it. Whiners!
No surprise that PRIME MINISTER STEPHEN HARPER got his way again today from our NATO allies.As usual,a real leader who gets things done.If only the abstaining lieberals could find someone half as strong,steady,and focused as our prime minister.To bad the professor and his Dream-whipped team can only sit on their hands or run away when the time comes to lead and vote.Bye bye Stephool.Don’t forget to pay your lunch bill onyour way out!
Mr Garth TurnerMP,
About what time do you expect to speak
tomorrow in the House?
I’m still ready to help out in the next election, as I can!
This might have relavance?
Naomi Wolf Warns U.S. in Slow Descent into Fascism. artical/interveiw
Democracy Now! web site link.
http://www.democracynow.org/2007/11/28/the_end_of_america_feminist_social
Paths Towards Fascism (48min video presentation by Naomi Wolf.
http://www.informationclearinghouse.info/article18570.htm
Keep up the good work Mr Garth TurnerMP.
Do the best you can, that’s all we could ever ask.
Remember you are only human!
Bob R: The new policy is not inclusive to all, that is the point. Once again the Cons want a two-tier system. They want to pick “superior” applicants.
They want to allow “line jumpers.
I am just surprised they didn’t decide to “privatize” our immigration department and have it run as a for-profit business.
Hummm…. my post dissappeared… humm…..
Garth,
The budget came down on Feb 26th and was passed March 4th. Sorry, but I am dense, how is it possible to insert this
into the budget..what am I missing?
“On Friday, March 14th the Federal Government tabled changes to the Immigration and Refugee Protection Act (IRPA) as part of the federal budget (Bill C-50).”
Back door legislation is unconscionable. Is the Tory government so arrogant that they forfeit our democracy by forgoing debate and committee hearings just to elicit a confidence vote? Shame!
Clearly, this reform knowingly would not stand up to such scrutiny or they would behave like professional parliamentarians and not partisan hacks pushing an agenda that does not benefit Canada as a whole.
Smart, clear and winnable legislation changes would and should pass otherwise.
Perhaps this is why they need to inflate the “real” numbers to shock and awe, while hiding their true agenda.
“The “increased” number of immigrants (429,649 individuals last year) mentioned in the government announcement on Friday, March 14th, is a composite of the usual categories (independent immigrants, family class immigrants and refugees) but now Minister Finley is adding temporary workers and international students into the mix. The numbers for independent immigrants, family class immigrants and refugees last year was roughly 251,000, very similar to recent years and, as is usually the case, below the projected target levels the government had set for the corresponding year.
The real increase in numbers has taken place in the area of temporary work permits. This trend in immigration policy steers Canada away from a main objective of IRPA. Section 3.1 clearly commits to support the settlement and integration of immigrants and their full participation in and contribution to all aspects of Canadian life.
Statistics Canada’s Longitudinal Study of Immigrants to Canada (LSIC) showed that immigrants who came to this country through the Family Class had better settlement outcomes than those who came as independent immigrants.
On the other hand, the Canadian Experience Class (CEC) category will provide for limited numbers of new residents (target levels for 2008 are between 10,000 and 12,000). In addition, only international students and certain types of temporary workers are eligible to get permanent resident status through the CEC category. That leaves out a large number of people already contributing to our economy and society.”
http://www.ocasi.org/index.php?qid=956 ~ Ontario Council of Agencies Serving Immigrants.
OCASI is concerned about this in particular and if they are correct, we should be as well.
“At the same time, the government announcements on Friday, March 14th further supported the current policy shift whereby immigrants are increasingly being understood and treated as economic units to be brought here through temporary visa arrangements.
This reality raises a number of critical questions. Are temporary work permits being used to fill a genuine labour shortage, or are they being used as an avenue to obtain cheap, temporary labour where the workers have few rights? Is Canada moving towards building stable and equitable communities, or creating a pool of workers who are treated as second class and disposable economic units? What are the long-term implications for proceeding in this direction?
This is not my Canada!
Get the spurs out, and let’s get cracking!
This latest piece of political chicanery demonstrates clearly that this administration has lots its moral compass. Defeat them in the house. If her excellency gives Harper his election, so be it. If she does not, take the opportunity to form an administration with your stellar front bench.
I just filed my taxes, and I would have paid 3% less under the 2006 rules than under the 2007 rules. Tax cuts – just smoke and mirrors.
Hey! Garth! When EXACTLY are you going to GET OFF YOUR BUTT and STOP “monitoring” the Bell throttling of internet packages?????
Hey Garth, when EXACTLY are you going to get OFF YOUR SMELLY B*TT, stop “monitoring” the Bell throttling of internet packages and ACTUALLY DO SOMETHING ABOUT IT????
Humm… my postSSSS dissappeared…. double hummmm…..
I think Garht is all for Freedom of Supression…
posted by Garth Turner on 04.02.08 @ 8:42 pm
In case you missed it, the immigration changes would reduce the number of applications the government accepts, and give to the minister, Diane Finley (wife of Doug Finley, Stephen Harper’s chief political operative) sweeping new powers to pick and choose the kinds of immigrants she thinks are acceptable. It eliminates the right of every application to get a fair review, and thus, it is failed and flawed. It smacks of the kind of anti-immigramt Reform Party intolerance that I ran against as a Progressive Conservative 15 years ago. It was crap then. It’s crap now.
So, this is not a procedure you should be proud of. The budget bill should enact a budget. It should not rescind the will of the people. It should not redefine the faces of our new citizens. And changes so fundamental should not be crow bared into a money bill, then pushed through the nation’s legislature, just for the sheer partisan hell of it.
Your comments matter to me. I’ve got time. It’s a long speech, and a worthy country.
………………………………………………………………..
Let’s just cut through your bs on the immigration legislation, because you are only trying to make it a political football, when you know exactly why the government is taking control of immigration, while you are trying to score a touchdown with the multicultis in the big cities.
What is happening in immigration is that young new Canadians are attempting to import their old and sick relatives to Canada and dumping them on the beleaguered healthcare system. They get costly open heart surgery, replacement hips, essentially free medication the minute they get into Canada. Of course the recent immigrants mostly vote Liberal, and your political ploy trying to scare the sh!t out of them is all to scrounge up votes.
Yes, the Conservative government will cherry-pick new immigrants with much-needed skills rather than bring in old, sick people for ‘family reunification’ just to take advantage of Canadian healthcare and pension benefits … while real Canadians are left in the lurch to sit and wait for their turn at Canadian healthcare. An outrageous case in point is recent Canadian citizens going back to live in their old home countries, but once they get sick they come back for healthcare benefits, or get rescued if war breaks out.
So how do you reconcile your ‘fiscal conservatism’ with your ’social liberalism’ on the true issues surrounding immigration… given that you are desperate for votes in Halton and Canada now ..??!!
Vote against it and urge your fellow MP’s to do the same. This is the line drawn in the sand worth crossing. Its too risky not to call an election at this point. Sometimes we have to be who we are, you know? If you have Dions ear, remind him of this:
“Whether its serrendippidous or not, we can’t stop being who we are or we heavily risk becoming someone else. The best of leaders look out for others while the worst of leaders look out only for their selfish selves. If the Libs don’t bring down the Con government here, Dion will fail to inspire even some of the most hardcore Liberals to follow him, losing his integrity with those that count the most… thats the ones that will vote for him”.
Anyone can yak it up, but all eyes are on Dion to walk the walk as its the only way “faith” will come back to the Liberal party and translate into votes. If Dion doesn’t pull the plug here, I’d say he’s done as a leader falling flat on his face and why? Sometimes the best of leaders simply have to put it to the people to do what’s right, to trust their judgement in seeing it for what it is.
This nation wasn’t built by the efforts of one man or one party or one generation. It was built by every citizen that ever held citizen ship and then some. Its time for the Liberal leader to trust this nation to do whats right, to support those who are our brothers keeper, to keep our wills free and our voices heard with a democracy that works. Trust is a two way street. Trust us to do whats right, and there’ll be enough of us that will meet the Libs in the middle to make it worth the while.
Garth, Heard you today on CBC. Totally agree with you. I don’t think that the Vancouver market can last much longer.
Here on the Island it is much lower so probably will not change anywhere nearly as soon as the hot Van. market will.
As fore the vote, Just do it!
the sooner that you send Harpo home to Calgary the better. (Even they might not want him now.)
*yaawwn*
I could care less about this. Another feigned outrage, another non-vote. We get it, CPC dirty tricks, yada yada.
Time to put up …..
If the immigration changes were only to speed up the process for people that Canada desperately needs I would support it. If it did not grant the Minister the power to deny entry to applicants who had followed the due process we could support it. As it stands, we must defeat this bill and take our chances at the polls. They do not respect the will of parliament, they do not support students or their parents and grandparents, they do not deserve to get a pass, never again. I am ready to fight, even ready to lose but never to walk away from what we stand for, so let’s stand for something.
Blah blah blah,whine whine whine.If you don’t like it,vote against it, or SHUT THE HELL UP.I repeat,if you don’t like it, vote against it or SHUT THE HELL UP.I repeat……
I completely agree with Bob R.
We are against it. this is a sly attempt behind the back of parliament. we condemn it. this defeats the will of the canadians.
reply: so are you going to vote against it.
garth: no. i am just exercising my freedom of speech. can i sit now? please this is really embarrassing. i will have to report to the caucus that i did my job of whining.
dion: congrats! let us wait for the right time to bring down the government. hell with the issues. let us focus on timing. timing is everything.
liberals: we agree. can we go home now?
dion: yes and be sure to feast on chicken every night until we have an election.
I’m totally fed up with Harper and company. The lies are told and the stupid people believe. Getting harder to even listen.
Hi Garth. Finley. Of Flanagan,Finley,Reynolds&Brodie. We need to know many things. Time for answers. From Mr.Harper as well. Please keep asking them the questions I heard today- their silence is telling…I believe you are working to give us the most informed choices. Thanks. Educate. Agitate.Use your voice,all of us.I’m beyond agitated-Union Workers, Civil Rights fighters, Womens’ Rights-where would we be without the people who gave their LIVES and blood and sweat and tears for us? With all due respect,if neo-con Reformers have joined the in struggle,they don’t seem made of the stuff that gets battered and bloody, does without,lives lean,fights for the next guy…plenty of us do,though. Power to the people! Thanks Pecked to Death by Ducks for your words of Andrew Jackson. Reminds me of Ike-”We must be careful…Military Industrial Complex”…
The more you bow down, the more ground you have lost when you finally make a stand.
Guess who (may) have caused the economic meltdown? Hint: he runs a gin joint right next door to us!
http://tinyurl.com/2nrywa
Mulroney has done a splendid job in shaping Harpers strategies for Quebec, taught him well how to show utter contempt, directed him to Luntz, shown him all the loopholes. He retains his ties to Bush and are allies on global warming, Afghanistan, Iraq and trade deals. Harpo’s public facade doesn’t hide his “resentment politics” to the other parties, and now to Immigrants. He’s angry and controlling and we’ve had enough. The ReformAllianceCons are re-shaping Canada into something we won’t recognize if he is allowed to continue. He simply can’t compromise on anything, is ignoring the flag motion,
and will make sure everything is irreversible by any future government, so Dion’s remark last week saying everything they pass will be undone is pure nonsense.
The only thing that stops him from implementing the total right wing agenda is that he has a minority.
Look we know the feds exist to serve business, and now foreign ownership. Virtually all of the decisions regarding our economic welfare, our personal freedom and the makeup of our society in general, are subject to foreign, mainly American approval. We’re sick of it. God save us all if he gets a Majority.
I don’t know what your waiting for, maybe when Harpo moves on the Gun Registry? Get organized and be much much more Assertive in what the Cons true agenda is for Canada, tell it to the Lib friendly media, but do something.
Vote against it. The bill. Against it. Vote. The bill, Garth, the bill. Vote. Against. The. Bill.
I’m fed up with this. It’s ridiculous. Every week, the Liberals lose face. Every time we make meek threats of an election, every other party laughs in our faces. The New Democrats are laughing at us, for god’s sake. These are the people regularly polling as low as 13%-14%. Are we in any shape to face an election? God, no. But we’re presently getting less so, and not more. Bring down the government. Will we win? Not a chance in hell. But we cannot run from an election forever Every week we put it off means it’ll be a little harder to hold them to a minority, and every time we abstain, we lose credibility.
This is outrageous. They attach a bill regarding immigration on a budget bill. At least the Conservatives are in a minority government so our official opposition can hold them to account on sneaky things like this.
Another version of dubya’s “Axis of Evil”, but he should take a close look in the mirror and see who is there.
http://tinyurl.com/37jhju
*******************************************
Countries don’t exert much influence over various costs, so what gives the World Bank the right to tell parts of Asia to rein in prices?
http://tinyurl.com/37y9qh
I try to check in regularly to see what has outraged you lately. You clearly have expressed your disdain for the Budget, and now you fear the Immigration measures tacked onto it. Yesterday you could have defeated both. I expect that by tomorrow something else will enrage you. Is all the outrage real or fake? Your party has had the power to defeat the government for months. It is very hard to take you or your party seriously when it’s all talk, and no voting.
That pill Harper has poisoned the well. Again.
What to do, what to do…?
Let him have it his way. Let the people see what he and that drink of gak Finley have in mind for would-be Canadians.
Harper is far too desperate for an election to give it to him. Feet to the fire for some while longer. Already the bugs, slugs and snakes are running from the heat. Or curling up and dying.
There’s a good reason Harper and his crew are lusting for an election; something they are hoping to hide in the hoopla of an election.
Make Harper govern his mandate!
October 2009, unless the PM or PMO are proven to be involved in criminal activities, then take ‘em out ASAP.
If the Liberals are not prepared to call an election over this then I would suggest that the party (or yourself) put forward legislation that prevents ‘riders’ or non-budgetary actions from being added to any budget bill. It may not stop this immigration bill from passing but it will stop all similar backdoor actions in the future.
Are the NDP still planning to introduce a motion to sever the immigration provisions from the budget implementation bill? If so, vote for it. If not, introduce your own.
You’ve had you’re strategic retreats. You’ve had your by-elections. You’ve had your Easter vacation. Now, for the love of God, PULL THE GODDAMNED PLUG!
You’re testing me, Garth. You really are.
One lone Liberal MP standing and voting against will do.
There will be much wailing and gnashing of teeth.
And the Cons will have to carry on their not-so-hidden agenda.
Already the frustration is beginning to wear: Blackburn was tripping all over himself today. Let something out of the bag too early, what?
Guergis crying and running. Wedding plans in Mexico in ruins? *boo hoo*
Prentice desperately trying to sell off Canadian technology when no-one is paying attention.
Lunn and Clement keeping a pretty low profile, though for Lunn ski season is all but over, on this continent at least.
Ambrose nowhere to be found, an absense only noticeable when Harper wants to re-open the Constitution.
James Moore sweating and strutting upon the stage with his three lines.
Harper, Finley and Flanagan under investigation? Only Judy WL knows for sure…
Let them stew a while longer. They still stink too awfully to be dead yet.
Garth,here’s the liberals big chance to go for the gold,or risk losing current immigrant votes whenever the next election happens.
It’s obvious Diane Finley is out of her league on this if the best answers she can give are quotes from a couple of newspapers.
And for you guys to sit there and let Van Loan accuse the Liberals of putting the head tax on Chinese immigrants after they built the railway when it was John A.MacDonald who did it astounds me.
Art Hanger is stonewalling the Cadman affair.Buddy boy Baird wouldn,t answer Judy Sgro’s question today but she had him good, and yesterday wouldn’t dignify another answer,not that dignified and Baird should be used in the same sentence.Reminds me of some brain dead wrestler who got dropped on his head once to often.
I don’t understand how you guys can sit there and take it day after day.If the liberals don’t have enough ammo to take into an election you’ll never have it.
I know what the polls say but it’s time to hear what the voters have to say.
Please vote against us and bring this ridiculous government down!
Oops, I meant ‘it’ not ‘us’
Go away for a few days and what do I return to? The CRAPcon, all encompassing Ministry of Sleaze and Smear is at it again. And the deathstar trolls have new recruits or new names they post under. Boring! Brought over from the roadkill diner no doubt.
My new grand daughter was born just a couple of weeks ago. She is the embodiment of generations of immigrants from all over the globe; english, welsh, dutch, vietnamese, irish… she is canadian.
She is lucky that there was not a hard woman with dark glasses cherry picking her ancestors in a futile effort to shape and mould canadian society.
That a provision meant to kill the legislation Dan McTeague offered up to the House to great acclaim, is no surprise. It stole their thunder on their useless savings account scam. It’s a typical CRAP response to real help for real people, ie. not available. But to add the immigration changes this way, this rethuglican Bush Co, american style, is scary and bent. And wrong. I wonder who gave Dim Jim the idea?
The life I envision for my g’kids, for my family, has nothing in common with the lies, deceits and obfuscations of the current government of Canada.
We can not get rid of them and their agenda soon enough Garth. We need an election soon.
And I speak for many in the west. The real west, British Columbia. Not the posers in Alberta.
Geo
Its only in Second Reading debate so it either hangs in Committee or reaches Third next month.
You need a motion on the floor that makes or breaks the government on the environment. No doubt the four horsemen have discussed it (give May a break). A letter needing Harper’s signature to be immediately sent to the UN confirming Kyoto in full and notifying them of the schedule slip might convince the rest of opposition to cooperate on the C-50 report timing.
You may want to point out that members will want the fine points you mention discussed in committee with demonstrable due process.
How long does a judicial review take to come down once the cross-examination papers have been filed?
great score on the Kyoto pact
The immigration amendment cannot pass unless the fall of government is guaranteed before summer.
You’d hate to have C-50 die in committee and let the CPC slag on the trail about how the opposition let it pass.
You could always write a deadline for clearly defined action into any motion about the environment using that cutsie-pie “or else it’ll be non-confidence” clause to the Senate they were snickering about. IMO fair dingham and clean to boot.
Hell if I had more money and was a little younger i’d move to Cuba their letting the people have recorders etc. now wow and our gang is taking everything away.
These idiots are bordering on human rights issues its tme they go before they only let french oreinated folks into this country.
This country is very quickly becoming a Nazi state right before our very eyes and nobody now lie then will stand up and stop this damn infringement of our civil liberities.
I hate to say this but this bunch of smart asses running this country are nothing but a bunch of Trojan Horses bound and bent on taking away all liberties and taxing the hell out of us so thre can be no rebelling against their style, Louis Reil lost his life trying to safeguard this freedom for his people and here we chickens take the safeway out let big brother feed and cloth us, tell us how to tie our shoe laces, when to eat and and what order to accomplish these simple acts as we are now children run by Jimmy Jones whose getting our coolaid ready.
Quebec or no Quebec blow these idiots away before we become Americanized by this power bent Prime Minister and inturn owe our souls like Americans to offshore predators.
I recall a comment made by Stephen Harper some time prior to the 2006 federal election. To paraphrase – One will not recognize Canada by the time I am finished with it. I have not recognized it for some time now. Counting Tuesday’s vote on MP Telegdi’s private member’s bill re: Peace Tower flag and the government’s decision to NOT honour a vote in the HoC; to cherry-picking who can and cannot come into the country based on a criterion that is not open to discussion or parliamentary protocol – now that smacks of a policy that should truly frighten all of us. The present minority government is one of brazen boldness that should not be admired – it should be feared. And it is being propped up by the NDPers who view this as a political shot at undermining the Liberals. All of this gives politics the shoddy reputation that really turns people away. This is another one of those times that partisanship should be cast aside and heavy consideration given to the direction that Canada must take on many issues – not the least of which is immigration. To lump this in with a Budget bill appears to be a sneaky attempt to try and avoid all of the tough questions and hard work. I am against it.
Dear Garth,
This Harper-crafted government does not appreciate or respect immigrants. Immigrants, like everything else, are a political tool for Harper.
What about the skilled, hardworking, invisible immigrants who have been building our great country Canada and hiding in the shadows since Harper took office?
What about those “illegal” immigrants?
Oh yeah.
That’s right.
Mr. Bullyman Criminal Irradicator Harper came down HARD on them when he rounded up a teeny-tiny voting block of Portuguese so-called “illegals” and escorted them and their families and their dreams out of Canada.
The Conservative Mr. Harper is a DREAM KILLER!
Each one of these Canada-building so-called “illegal immigrants” are just trying to work hard and give their children and themselves a fighting chance at a future in a wonderful country.
Canada!
These skilled immigrants would be RELIEVED to pay taxes and hold their heads high as Official Canadians rather than sneak around being abused by unscrupulous employers who will do anything just to save a buck.
These hopeful, and proud CANADIANS (in every way except legally) would love nothing more than to START paying property taxes, and provincial taxes, and federal taxes rather that constantly looking over their shoulders and wondering, “Is this the day that Harper will kill our dreams?”
The way Harper operates those taxes should be viewed as PAYOLA for Harper’s immigration henchmen.
And it would be PAYOLA that is gladly paid to Harper by these beuatiful, hardworking, freedom-loving people if Harper simply grants them amnesty.
If Prime Minsiter Harper truly wants skilled people to help continue to build our free and great country Canada, he will grant ALL so-called “illegal immigrants” AMNESTY!!
Now!!!
Or he can keep on playing political games in pursuit of POWER!!!
The choice is his.
After all, Harper is the Boss.
Sincerely,
MB
The charge of the Light Brigade is running thru my head, Blocs to the right, NDP to the left, and CONS in front of them volleyed and thundered…. Can the Liberals complete the charge that failed 153 years ago? Can Dion lead the charge and be certain his party will follow, I hope so…into the valley…
“It smacks of the kind of anti-immigramt Reform Party intolerance that I ran against as a Progressive Conservative 15 years ago. It was crap then. It’s crap now.”
So Garth, which part is crap?
The limiting the family reunification to immediate? – by contrast you would allow family reunification to include extended families such as 2nd cousins, 3rd cousins, and related by marriage.
Dramitically changing the ethnic mix of Canada? By contract, so you would like to change the ethnic mix of Canada? Then why enforce the premise that Canada was build by francophones and anglophones and that French and English is the official languages of Canada. Why not arabic and mandarin as the languages?
To emigrate those people with skills that Canada needs? By contrast, you would allow emigration for people with no skills that Canada needs.
So Garth, tells us which part you disagree with – you know some details instead of your usual accusations.
Liberals are gaining strength and recovering from the hatchet job delivered post the adscam.
The Conservatives tactics are now being revealed and Canadians are comparing them to the past and finding them wanting.
The message. The LPC needs to be clear and concise in illustrating the difference they offer to Canadians. The younger set. At their entry level.
The Conservatives have ‘attack’ mode on and can’t seem to turn it off. It is unflattering and a weakness.
Garth,
I would start with something like the quote from April 1, 2008 Globe article wherein a senior citizen who, by virtue of age and experience has been around the block a few times and is not fooled, states:
Then go on to say that governing by such tactics is not the means employed by the honest, rather lie more within the realm of the grafter.
I would continue by using this quote from the April 2, 2008 CNEWS article with respect to its latest polls that demonstrates a waning momentum for the Conservatives and by contrast, a building for the Liberals, as more and more citizens are awakening to the disceptive methodology that seems underlie every single movement taken by this government, with questionable “ends-justifies-the-means” ethics employed right back to the birth of the party.
I would draw a parallel to the unprecedented powers that Republicans gave their President to overrule Congress and long history of habeas corpus in the accumulated foundation of the Common Law, and how this new Conservative law too would short-circuit existing checks and balances. Then identify where such subversion of the checks and balances have been a general theme with this government through such things as the dismantling of Court Challenges program, this being just a further progression in the theme.
http://www.commondreams.org/views06/0928-20.htm
And then conclude that when the momentum has built for the Liberals to return to leading government, contrary to the Conservative government where words and action with respect to accountability and ethics do not jive – word will be bond – they will rescind this subversive travesty against honest and proper procedure. Along with the rescinding of tactics will be a rescinding of this unprecedented ministerial power that is so open to abuse.
In the words of former Ontario Premier David Petersen:
“I think what people are seeing is a government that’s run all by tactics. You know you need some philosophy, you need a vision, you need to present something better to investors, to electors, and everyone else. And when every single thing is reduced to a tactic, in a phony war, I think turns people off on politics; I think that’s a risk we’re running.”
“It smacks of the kind of anti-immigramt Reform Party intolerance that I ran against as a Progressive Conservative 15 years ago. ”
So Garth, as everyone knows the Reform Party was very strong in the west – mainly in British Columbia and Alberta, you are suggesting that British Columbians and Albertans are anti-immigrant (rascists)?
Boy – you, Liberals sure like to divide Canadians. Pity.
No minister of any party should have this kind of power. The backlog can be dealt with in a transparent fashion.
Delay, filibuster and/or vote it down…
* Major immigration change: anti-democratic in its budget-bill disguise and its intent
* son-of-Meech: should be good for 15 seats (at least) in Quebec ie the base, and tons of seats elsewhere
* Air-bus returns w lyin Brian
* Cadman
* chalk river/Keen
* Income Trust betrayal
* etc, etc
hey, you got the media, the NDP and the Tories all against you (the bloc is against everyone) and everyone seems to slag the leader.
An underestimated, underdog with a toxic-tory-list of issues ain’t a bad place to start a spring election from.
Garth, why are hardcore CPC supporters always among the first (if not *the* first) to post on these threads? Are some of these people posting under more than one name, and are any of these people paid trolls? If they’re professionals, I don’t think they’re making much of a difference–I just skip their posts and read the ones (of varying points of view) that have something useful to say. Could be just me, though.
Forget everything people.Its beginning to look a lot like “June”,forget 09,it’s in the air.There was a little poll taken at the colombian shop as to who hates the pm the most.Well I Was a little suprised let me tell you,The winners were Robert Fife and Garth Turner,what do you think of that.
Really Garth, I’m not even sure why you bother posting about these things. To depress us? To make us feel like we have no ability to shape our government? Seriously, if you guys aren’t going to do sweet funk all, then don’t bother letting us con party haters know what we have no control over.
A few words from passionate citizens sure as hell isn’t going to change any of those partisan minds, so why bother even asking?
Let us know when to stop holding our breath, until then, stop spreading bad news that we have no say in changing.
Would you like crayons? — Garth
Don’t be so mean to the guy Garth… some people are just slow.
So here’s my comment:
Would it make sense to introduce a private member bill aiming toward a prohibition of such practise?… or even better have the whole liberal party table a motion of such sort?
Secondly, would it make sense to introduce another bill that forces the speaker of the house to actually go by the house rules rather than letting conservatives get away with avoiding or counter attacking questions in qp?
I understand that because he wants to be re-elected by the members of the house, the speaker tries not to affront anyone. Subsequently he’s being more lenient… too lenient! – which is an obvious flaw in the system that requires fixing.
Only with a working qp behaviours like that can be publicly scrutinized and true justifications obtained.
Am I on to something?
This is the prime example of “Do as we say not do as we do” It was just a week or so ago Flaherty stood stated to the media that the RESP was an American Republican style tactic. (untrue) it was as have many before it and will be “A Budget Amendment” fully open to debate.. This Immigration Bill is a long time Reform idea hatched by Stephen Harper Reformer and now about to be forced down the throats of Canadians that is truly a classic case of Bush and Chaney personal Republican Style in your face plans to remove all rights that democracy has achieved in lives of brave soldiers and peoples in two world wars. May God himself have mercy on their souls, for they fail to realize than many families who have done well here in Canada started out with little or no money, no education, no family name and carved out a proud future for their children. They even gave their son’s lives in World Wars to provide a better Canada for all Canadians. Even all those ungrateful Reformers now hidden in Conservative uniforms who sit and plot behind closed doors. Shame Mr. Speaker, please ask each and every MP to look to the right, look to the left and look across the isle and ask yourself what did mine and your family bring to Canada a couple a hundred or so years ago? Most will say hope? Hope for a better future for our children, and now that hope is about to be removed.
NOW MORE THAN EVER BEFORE IT IS TOO LATE.
I want my Canada Back! I love those words, yes Ladies and Gentlemen, the Canada that we grew grew up in, the Canada I was raised in with all it faults, the Canada I was proud of, the Canada where we had leadership not ‘Dictatorship” where the Bully the on Hill is more concerned about a “White House” rather than “Our House”". I want my children and grandchildren to have at minimum the standard of living I enjoyed in Canada. Where I turned on a TV and the PM of Canada was talking to Canadians, not talking down to Canadians. My Canada is unique not in the image of George “Dubya” Bush but in the memories of gallant men and women who came to-gether from coast to coast to coast and fought for freedom of speech and for the right to be heard via there elected representative in Ottawa, who are now told to sit and listen to a “Dictator” spell out rules of what to say, where to say it and to whom to talk to. Dam it I want may Canada back, the question is do you?
that will speed up entry for people we need in this country,I.E.doctors,carpenters,welders, etc.
This is a crock since licenses for these areas are under provincial jurisdiction and they, the provinces have shown little inclination to change the rules. This is simply cherry picking people.
CBC Censors Its Own Exxon-Mobil Oilsands Report
Posted on Monday, March 31 2008 by sthompson
CBC Censors its own Exxon-Mobil Oilsands Report
By Kyle Havens – Please Forward
http://www.vivelecanada.ca/article/235929814-cbc-censors-its-own-exxonmobil-oilsands-report
Boy – you, Liberals sure like to divide Canadians. Pity.
By Catherine on 04.03.08 5:05 am
Don’t they though with quotes like these two:
I think in Atlantic Canada, because of what happened in the decades following Confederation, there is a culture of defeat that we have to overcome.
Stephen Harper
Whether Canada ends up as o-ne national government or two national governments or several national governments, or some other kind of arrangement is, quite frankly, secondary in my opinion.
Stephen Harper
Then the lying on the Atlantic Accord brought great unity…
Then Mr. Flaherty’s assault on Ontario.
Yes those Liberals sure are up on charges of disunity!!!!
You guys have to stand up this time!
Talking to people; they don’t understand whats going on, most have forgotten chuck by now! the RESP and the other Harper idiocies have all but left the public awareness.
A party that will happily promise to aid measures to rip Canada in half (Quebec) just to get power and a majority, is a party that should not be ruling anything!!!
It might not be the best time in the polls and some people may be having to much time being petty and trying to get in the way and undermine Dion, but maybe the liberal party just needs a common enemy, who IS NOT IN THE PARTY! how about Harper?
People don’t understand why the liberals abstained or why they did not vote down some of these pieces. I know of so many people that have said this time around their going to vote NDP or Green ‘just because’. it helps when i in placid tones explain what a confidence measure is and the like but…
Remember a few threads back someone suggested something along the lines of ‘a vote for one party shouldn’t take away a vote from a similar party’ and you replied something along the lines of ‘in the real world it does’
In the real world people don’t get this! the message has to be out there that we need an election and that a vote for anyone but the liberals, is a vote for the troll ridden ranks of brain washed, anti democratic, dishonest, muzzled
Cons. what happens if they get a majority, and the muzzle comes off? Will the Canada that’s left after be the Canada we know and love?
I’m a proud card carrying liberal and welcome the chance to get out and campaign for my Mp!
By putting them in a money bill, of course, they cannot be amended, altered or deleted, without it all becoming a confidence issue upon which the government will fall – Garth
If a money bill cannot be amended, altered or deleted, how can these extra measures be attached? I know the CPC are doing it, but it appears they can addon whatever they want. Or is it a case of each add on is subject to a vote, which of course would be a non-confidence vote?
However, Garth, its time for less talk and more action. We need an election … now! Its time to issue pink slips to this sleasy government that ignores Canadians and slimes its way around the scrutiny of Canadians’ represenatives in Parliament.
Hey Garth…
I have to agree with the folks here. Vote against the bill. Bring down parliament.
The excuse that “we will not have the date dictated by the Conservatives” is weak… if everything is made a confidence issue, you could use that excuse right until October 2009. You don’t need to do this on your own motion of non-confidence… you can affect the same with a news conference where Stephane Dion announces that he’s lost confidence in the government to manage the finances to the country: they’ve run us back into deficit, they’re passing anti-immigrant laws, they’re not fixing the environment, they’re lying to the electorate and they’re even bribing MPs for their vote. The general public doesn’t know much of a difference between that and a motion of no-confidence saying the same in the house.
Don’t let the budget pass. Kill the government. Please.
Well, if ever there was a time for Mr. Dion to call an election, it seems now would be appropriate. It is time to stand up to the bullies. Stand up against those that would deliberately defy the will of a majority of MPs.
If this bill passes due to the Liberals abstaining or voting in favour of it, I think I’ll be sitting the next election out.
My feeling is that there are many in the same boat I am. I’m tired of the Liberals not standing up to the bully.
Blah blah blah,whine whine whine.If you don’t like it,vote against it, or SHUT THE HELL UP.I repeat,if you don’t like it, vote against it or SHUT THE HELL UP.I repeat………
By Bob R. on 04.02.08 8:47 pm
Are you Leasa’s alter ego?
“No surprise that PRIME MINISTER STEPHEN HARPER got his way again today from our NATO allies.As usual,a real leader who gets things done.If only the abstaining lieberals could find someone half as strong,steady,and focused as our prime minister.To bad the professor and his Dream-whipped team can only sit on their hands or run away when the time comes to lead and vote.Bye bye Stephool.Don’t forget to pay your lunch bill onyour way out!
By Bob R. on 04.02.08 10:52 pm”
Nice try Bob R. The ONLY reason that NATO is committing more troops is because of the LIBERAL motion regarding Afganistan that insisted on more NATO troops or Canada would pull out. Hapre simply wanted to extend Canada’s mission with no strings attached.
This action by NATO has NOTHING to do with Harper and everything to do with a thoughtful, comprehensive set of recommendations put forward by Dion’s Liberal team.
As far as the budget bill with ‘add-ons’….kill it and let’s go the polls so we can rid of these neoCon idiots.
“Really Garth, I’m not even sure why you bother posting about these things. To depress us? To make us feel like we have no ability to shape our government? Seriously, if you guys aren’t going to do sweet funk all, then don’t bother letting us con party haters know what we have no control over.
A few words from passionate citizens sure as hell isn’t going to change any of those partisan minds, so why bother even asking?
Let us know when to stop holding our breath, until then, stop spreading bad news that we have no say in changing.
By Sj on 04.03.08 5:50 am”
Sj….you have a rather simplistic black and white viewpoint. One of the biggest benefits of Garth’s blog is to keep the Canadian public INFORMED on what is happening in Parliament. Not everything boils down to a non-confidence vote and an election. An INFORMED electorate can make an INFORMED decision when an election is called. The Harperites would like nothing better than to shut down Garth’s blog…that’s why so many neo-Con trolls post their BS and drivel on here.
If the actions of the Conservative government upset you…then GOOD! As Canadians we should be upset at their total disdain for democratic principles, their undermining of Federal government programs and powers (for the benefit of small minded parochial provinces), their careless squandering of our Federal surpluses on ill-advised and uneffective GST tax cuts, their alledged breaking of election funding laws in 2006 (and their proven transgressions with their $530,000 convention payback), etc. etc. etc. etc. etc. The list is getting so long after only 2 years in office it is an absolute joke.
Get mad! Be informed! And use your vote strategically to help ensure that we get rid of as many of these idiots as possible when the next election comes.
One last time…Real leaders are best judged by history; not their contempories. Pompous posturing is not leadership. Sometimes, not to decide is the wisest course of action. Thoughtful reflection based on the best advice available often leads to the best decision. A decisive person is often a lousy leader. Calling a person a leader means diddly squat. A woman’s intuition has stood the test of time. Hitler was a decisive and effective leader but was he good? Ghandi was a patient and reflective leader, often called a wimp, but he perservered and history pronounced him GREAT. Deciding which way the masses are moving and setting yourself squarely in front does not make you a good leader…eg. letting the polls decide.
Do you know why the Conservatives don’t catch aids? Because they are thought to keep their mouths shut and their butts covered.
Hey, YOU! the so called “Canada’s Digital Democracy Leader” why are you doing NOTHING to stop Bell throttling. You KNOW what I am talking about, don’t play d*mb!
It seems most of us are recommending the Liberals vote against this anti-immigration bill. While I can see the argument against forcing an election, weighed against the alternative of not standing up for all potential new Canadians, I think the Liberals should take their chances this time.
The Liberals are being seen as propping up this government. Voters who want ABC, don’t have many options if the Liberals don’t get their act together. They may end up abstaining from voting at all.
The Libs will have a chance to vote against the immigration plan in the House of Commons , right?
No. Read the posting. The bill does not separate the immigration changes for separate scrutiny. Would you like crayons? — Garth
By John L on 04.02.08 9:26 pm
Sure you do….Vote against the Budget!! Bring down the Harperites
The Lieberals under Moscow’s former man in Ottawa, red Pierre Trudeau, passed legislation without public or other scrutiny. This was the worst piece of legislation in Canada’s history. It was none other than the Official Languages Act. The procedure for the passage of this act was for the 3 party leaders to speak and then vote on this discriminatory, divisive bill which, given the discrimination against the majority is nothing less than a devious reversal of the Battle of the Plains of Abraham in 1759 and hence an act of war.
By Bob on 04.02.08 10:14 pm
Wow.. You should get on Harpers team trying to get Quebec votes..
My coy members mount the podium,
They stoop to conquer, assume the seated position.
Strained faces show the load of opposition
Or did they just forget their imodium?
______________________________________
Start opposing what you don’t believe in and vote against it. As it is, you have given them the majority power.
The lumping of all kinds of unrelated :stuff” into one bill has got to stop. The making every bill a “matter of confidence” has got to stop.
I can only repeat what I post here a few weeks ago. The practice must be made illegal for ALL partys. Here is what needs to be done……..
Whereas this government has for political gain made an excessive number of votes “a matter of confidence” and has made it impossible for MPs to vote upon the CONTENT of the bill without far reaching political implications.
And whereas the public elects its MPs to represent their interests not that of the political party to which they belong.
And whereas there are no limits upon what the government of the day can declare “a matter of confidence” or what can be included in such a bill in order to make it a “no win” scenario for those opposed to portions of said bill.
And whereas all partys and governments past, present and future need to cease playing games with the future of Canada and allow our representatives to vote as their conscious and / or constituents dictates not as dictated by the party elite.
Be it resolved that the ONLY vote in the house that shall cause the government to fall shall be one which contains the words “this house has no confidence in…..” , further that such a bill shall contain no other proposals or legislation but shall be purely a motion regarding the houses confidence in the government.
There is no reason that this should not INCLUDE budget bills, if it dosent pass split it up, revise it, work with ALL MP’s to make it acceptable, but for all our sakes stop this bloody nonsense of throwing everything in one pot.
Respect and trust is earned through deeds and success that are in favor with those who observe them. If the Liberal opposition chooses not to enact “deeds” and therefore achieve no “successes” how are we to “respect and trust” and vote for the liberal candidate in our ridings. You MUST be seen to do something successfully. So far we are dissapointed. We want to respect and trust, but we have been given nothing to observe that warrents our loyalty. Many of us are not members of any party.. but we do not like what is happening to Canada under this government. Give us a valid choice. Show us you deserve out support. To vote Liberal should not be because we do not like Harper.. It should be because we trust and respect liberals.
Immigration reform plan worries bar association
Puts too much power in hands of officials, legal group says
Apr 03, 2008 04:30 AM
Bruce campion-smith
Ottawa bureau chief
OTTAWA–Canada’s immigration system risks being dictated by “ministerial fiat” rather than transparent regulations under a sweeping new law proposed by the federal government, a legal group warns.
While the Tory goal of reducing the backlog of would-be-immigrants is “laudable,” Immigration Minister Diane Finley hasn’t made the case why her dramatic reforms of the immigration system are the right solution, said Alex Stojicevic, chair of the immigration section of the Canadian Bar Association.
“We fail to see why these are necessary to achieve the government’s aims,” he said, calling the existing system relatively transparent and objective.
Under the proposal, Finley would have the power to issue “instructions” to her department to give priority to immigrants whose job skills are in demand in Canada. At the same time, she would have the power to refuse applications in other categories.
But Stojicevic suggested the reforms risk putting too much power in the hands of department officials.
“She wants to bring some sanity to these processing backlogs. She wants to try to address, where she can, economic priorities. We just don’t see this change as necessary to accomplish that goal,” he said.
“That really should be the job of regulation. The system should be transparent. It shouldn’t operate by ministerial fiat. And that’s what we’re talking about here, a kind of decree system,” he said.
Stojicevic also questioned why the changes were tucked into the government’s budget bill, rather than proposed in separate legislation.
“Why is this in the budget bill? … It shouldn’t be there. It should be debated in the public forum,” he said.
The proposals have drawn flak from opposition parties who accused Finley of “cherry-picking” the queue of would-be immigrants.
“We cannot fix the immigration backlog by giving the minister powers to pick her favourite immigrants. We should not fix the backlog by capping immigration levels. This is not a solution to the problem,” deputy Liberal leader Michael Ignatieff said in question period.
But Conservatives are daring election-shy Liberals to do more than criticize proposed immigration reforms and actually vote down the measures in the Commons, even if it means defeating the minority government.
“They can debate it as long as they want. They can do what they like on the bill. They can even stand in their place and vote against it if they do not like it,” Government House Leader Peter Van Loan said.
By the way folks, why would anyone trust Van Loan??!!:
The Commons
Aaron Wherry’s daily sketch from Ottawa.
BTC: REVISIONISM of the Day
Aaron Wherry | April 2, 2008 | 16:48:51
Interesting historical assertion from the Conservative house leader today. Responding to criticism of the government’s proposed immigration reforms, Peter Van Loan offered this:
“It was the Liberal Party that introduced the Chinese head tax.”
The Chinese head tax was introduced shortly after thousands of Chinese immigrants had helped complete the Canadian Pacific Railway.
The year? 1885.
The Prime Minister at the time? John A. Macdonald.
Macdonald’s political affiliation? Conservative.
Bit odd that Mr. Van Loan would want to renounce the Conservative party’s claim on Canada’s first prime minister, but there you have it.
Wish I had words of wisdom to help you out of a sticky wicket, but it’s fish or cut bait.
Tacking immigration on to a money bill is not proper procedure. You know it, Harper knows it, everybody knows it. You can rant and rail all you want to, but in the end the Liberals will have to vote for budget implementation and undesired add-on, or register lack of confidence in this government and go to the polls – if not rescued by the Bloc. (Since the RESP plan does involve money, I am not sure that it is an improper add-on.)
You have been given your “for-or-agin” marching orders by the Party. What you actually say will not matter. The LPC may hope for traction among immigrant groups with reports of the right words from the House, but who is to say whether immigrant memories of past Liberal “caprice” will negate expectations of future Conservative caprice. With the CPC no doubt banking on support from “real” Canadians, this is an issue where both parties can declare themselves on the side of the angels.
Immigration being one point where political correctness meets reality, I resent any effort to make political hay out of a conflict between personal needs and national requirements as perceived from time to time. That is really what we are talking about, and this always will involve consideration, interpretation, discretion – and caprice.
So, know that the LPC will vote against the Government or keep it short. As Jennifer Smith said, “You’re testing me, Garth. You really are.” Amen, Sister.
You know, if you went into the hill, stood up (possibly in the leathers like you just got off your bike for the sheer theatrical factor) and read a long… long… did I say long? list of all of the scandals, lies, and our right anti-democratic actions of out standing government and brought the house down in a motion of no confidence, that would do a lot.
It wouldn’t be that the liberals just voted against a conservative bill, that the liberals wanted to cancel the big savings plan that Flarety announced, or that the liberals wanted to continue to leave our immigration in disarray… or anything else that the con hacks can put a spin on, it would be that this government has lost confidence and a huge list of blatant reasons, hard to put a positive spin on being spit in the face don’t ya think?
That would also bring all of this to the fore front, in the Canadian eye, where IT NEEDS TO BE! This is no idle time to observe, or study the situation. We have a government that disbelieves in climate change and would rather spend money on fictitious technology then look for a real solution, a government that(as you’ve often pointed out) has us skirting deficit like it’s an old friend. A government who lately has been running a new scandal a week!
Come on Garth rally the troops, get Dion some strong coffee, and bring these self serving clowns down!
and I heartily second ”Rural”
By rural on 04.03.08 8:08 am
Thanks for the dose of common sense. It seems so simple and yet probably not doable. The Conservative party is buying the Quebec vote–that is why Ontario doesn’t matter to them, in my opinion.
Once again who said Haprer got his way with NATO….”Show me the Beef” no announcement from the Harper’s Front Office in Washington yet, quite a different story.
Afghanistan is a disaster, has been since the beginning of dirt, albeit the poppy crops are doing well.
Follow the money.
Garth, I just wanted to drop a note to say thank you for this blog. You’ve taught me so much about the political process over the past year or so since I started reading you every day (though I needed no help in seeing through Harper – he always looked like a shithead to me) and your witty and sometimes sarcastic remarks to people just crack me up! This country needs more politicans like you. Keep up the good work!
btw..ya looks some sweet in your riding leathers! hubba hubba!
)
Garth,
Simply stated…It is TIME to bring this pissant excuse of a government DOWN!
Garth, you must tell M. Dion that the CPC must be held to account at the polls. We have been waiting for some time now for the electon we deserve. Do we have to beg the Liberal Party to stop this train wreck of a government?
Pull the plug and trust the electorate. M. Dion will get his shot in the big chair and Canada will look far better considering the talent available in the Liberal line-up.
Do it ASAP and please, stop the water torture. Well there you go, you’ve made me beg for it.
Everyone have a wonderful time parrying about the pro’s and con’s of Harper vs Canada. We are off on a few day’s journey to have some fun. See you Sunday evening.
Hopefully, when we return, this pissant Harper government will have been given a vote of No Confidence, and we can be about bringing back Our Canada. The True North, Strong and FREE!
Remember Lee Iacocca, the man who rescued Chrysler Corporation from it’s death
throes? He has a new book, and here are some excerpts.
Lee Iacocca Says:
‘Am I the only guy in this country who’s fed up with what’s happening? Where the hell is our outrage? We should be screaming bloody murder. We’ve got a gang of clueless bozos steering our ship of state right over a cliff, we’ve got corporate gangsters stealing us blind,
and we can’t even clean up after a hurricane much less build a hybrid car. But instead of getting mad, everyone sits around and nods their heads when the politicians say, ‘Stay the course’
Stay the course? You’ve got to be kidding. This is America ,not the damned Titanic’. I’ll give you a sound bite: ‘Throw all the bums out!’
You might think I’m getting senile, that I’ve gone off my rocker, and maybe I have. But someone has to speak up. I hardly recognize this country anymore
The most famous business leaders are not the innovators but the guys in handcuffs. While we’re fiddling in Iraq , the Middle East is burning and nobody seems to know what to do. And the
press is waving ‘pom! -poms’instead of asking hard questions. That’s not the promise of the ‘
America ‘ my parents and yours traveled across the ocean for. I’ve had enough.
How about you?
I’ll go a step further. You can’t call yourself a patriot if you’re not outraged. This is a fight I’m ready and willing to have.
The Biggest ‘C’ is Crisis !
Leaders are made, not born. Leadership is forged in times of crisis. It’s easy to sit there with your feet up on the desk and talk theory. Or send someone else’s kids off to war when you’ve
never seen a battlefield yourself It’s another thing to lead when your world comes tumbling down.
On September 11, 2001, we needed a strong leader more than any other time in our history. We needed a steady hand to guide us out of the ashes. A Hell of a Mess
So here’s where we stand. We’re immersed in a bloody war with no plan for winning and no plan for leaving. We’re running the biggest deficit in the history of the country. We’re losing the
manufacturing edge to Asia ,while our once-great companies are getting slaughtered by health care costs. Gas prices are skyrocketing, and nobody in power has a coherent energy policy. Our schools are in trouble. Our borders are like sieves. The middle class is being squeezed every which way These are times that cry out for leadership.
But when you look around, you’ve got to ask: ‘Where have all the leaders gone?’ Where are the curious, creative communicators? Where are the people of character, courage, conviction,
omnipotence, and common sense? I may be a sucker for alliteration, but I think you get the point.
Name me a leader who has a better idea for homeland security than making us take off our shoes in airports and throw away our shampoo? We’ve spent billions of dollars building a huge new bureaucracy, and all we know how to do is react to things that have already
happened.
Name me one leader who emerged from the crisis of Hurricane Katrina. Congress has yet to spend a single day evaluating the response to the hurricane, or demanding accountability for the
decisions that were made in the crucial hours after the storm. Everyone’s hunkering down, fingers crossed, hoping it doesn’t happen again.Now, that’s just crazy. Storms happen. Deal with
it. Make a plan.Figure out what you’re going to do the next
time.
Name me an industry leader who is thinking creatively about how we can restore our competitive edge in manufacturing.Who would have believed that there could ever be a time when ‘The Big Three’ referred to Japanese car companies? How did this happen, and more
important, what are we going to do about it?
Name me a government leader who can articulate a plan for paying down the debt, or solving the energy crisis, or managing the health care problem. The silence is deafening. But these are the
crises that are eating away at our country and milking the middle class dry.
I have news for the gang in Congress. We didn’t elect you to sit on your asses and do nothing and remain silent while our democracy is being hijacked and our greatness is being replaced
with mediocrity. What is everybody so afraid of? That some bonehead on Fox News will call them a name? Give me a break. Why don’t you guys show some spine for a change?
Had Enough?
Hey, I’m not trying to be the voice of gloom and doom here. I’m trying to light a fire. I’m speaking out because I have hope I believe in America . In my lifetime I’ve had the privilege
of living through some of America’s greatest moments. I’ve also experienced some of our worst crises: the’Great Depression’, ‘World War II’, the ‘Korean War’, the ‘Kennedy Assassination’, the ‘Vietnam War’, the 1970s oil crisis, and the struggles of recent years culminating with 9/11. If I’ve learned one thing, it’s this:
‘You don’t get anywhere by standing on the
sidelines waiting for somebody else to take action. Whether it’s building a better car or building a
better future for our children, we all have a role to play. That’s the challenge Im raising in this book. It’s a call to ‘Action’ for people who,like me, believe in America . It’s not too late,but it’s getting pretty close. So let’s shake off the crap and go to work. Let’s tell ‘em all we’ve had eough.’
Make a ‘real contribution’ by sending this to everyone you know and care about……
our future is at stake!
Here’s what Diane Finley said yesterday.
“What we are trying to do is make it possible for more immigrants to come to this country and for them to get here sooner. … We need families to be reunited. Employers need these people now,” she said.
Apparently not.More BS from this person.
The reality of it says something different at least in Quebec.
“The overall jobless rate among immigrants who’ve been in Quebec for five years or less has mushroomed during the past six years to 17.3 per cent, said Stephan Reichhold of the Table de concertation des organismes au service des personnes réfugiées et immigrantes.
http://www.canada.com/montrealgazette/news/story.html?id=92961ff9-fb65-4dc6-89b2-e51aa1d8c299
Blah blah blah,whine whine whine.If you don’t like it,vote against it, or SHUT THE HELL UP.I repeat,if you don’t like it, vote against it or SHUT THE HELL UP.I repeat………
By Bob R. on 04.02.08 8:47 pm
And you think this kind of behaviour makes you look credible Bob? I don’t think so buddy. Your rants do nothing but show you up as a bully & confirms that you really are nothing but a cult follower & a friggin dumb ass idiot. Grow up already & get a life.
Garth, enough is enough already. I totaly agree with Doug; “Vote against the Budget!! Bring down the Harperites”.
It really is time to let ALL Canadians speak.
Regards
Here is a wild idea, stop bitching, take a stand and oppose it. I am tired of seeing Liberals huff and puff and then sit down when it counts. You Liberals are a disgrace and an embarassment doing your ridings a drastic disservice.
I agree with you on this one – the implementation of these new immigration powers is wrong. I’m sure there could be other wordings that would seek to eliminate some applications (of applicants who no longer want to come to Canada or are dead…) without giving the immigration minister more power.
And I have to say, did Diane have too much to drink the night before in that photo you’re showing? She’s wearing huge sunglasses inside the House? Is that allowed?
By Harry S on 04.02.08 11:14 pm
Once again Harry, you’ve missed the point. The critism isn’t about the problem, that being excessive imigration wait times. The issue is about the proposed solution giving the minister powers which a minister should not have.
Its also about how the changes are being forced through the HoC, by tacking them onto an already approved, first and second reading, budget which is expected to pass final reading and which means the changes won’t be properly debated and scrutinised.
As I stated earlier, this is the hallmark of the way Harper and his goons are sliming their agenda through the HoC.
Once again, Garth, its time to stand up against this kind of sleasy government, defeat the budget.
Hey, showing some backbone may just be what Mr. Dion needs to improve his numbers in Quebec, which I suspect is his worry on calling an election. Only one problem with Mr. Dion’s strategy, an election is going to happen next year regardless.
I just received a caustic reply from a Mr. Crawford in Gary Schellenbergers office. I have sent two e-mails to Gary commenting and asking questions about the governments new immigration policy and the apparent lack of transparency in attaching it to a budget bill.
Mr. Crawford replied that I was sending “Liberal talking points” and the gist was that I should cease and desist.
Mr. Crawford assumes that anyone who questions government policies must be Liberal and therefore unworthy of his time.
I wonder if other constituents have received similar responses from their M.P.’s?
I thought M.P.’s were supposed to hear the concerns of all their constituents not just the ruling parties supporters.
Mr Garth TurnerMP,
‘I will speak on the issue in the House Thursday morning.’
Could you post your talk on MPtv so we can all have a chance to hear your words? Even is we are out and about and miss it live. If you can’t I’ll understand.
Thanks you for trying!
The Americans have been pulling crap like this for years…yet another example of the high regard in which Harper holds their system.
I always thought that there was something in parliamentary procedure that recognized that all parts of a bill had to be related to its purpose, as summarized in the title. RESP might fit this criteria, as it is budget related, but immigration certainly does not.
And, I would like the Liberals to finally stand up to this government. If there’s a hill to die on, it’s the one that says “You don’t sneak immigration crap into the budget.” This has been a horrible few years under Harper, and while I like most liberal policies, and find Stephane Dion very appealing on a personality level, the constant unwillingness to take the plunge is exasperating. You’re the official opposition, and sometimes that means actually, y’know, opposing.
David, that was great, I loved it.
Those old crusty geezers went through hard times and were brought up on flint, steel, and soup kitchens. Our current generation of pudgy doughboys (including me) survive on timbits and sugar highs. We get clinicly depressed when the Blackberry goes down.
The only crap the Liberals can shake off lately is Verbal Diarrhea.
“We didn’t elect you to sit on your asses and do nothing and remain silent while our democracy is being hijacked and our greatness is being replaced
with mediocrity. What is everybody so afraid of?”
I watched our PM during the Bucharest meeting. I hate to admit it, but I was impressed with his ability to be respond clearly and diplomaticly. He is not to be underestimated and will push through his Agenda.
It’s become obvious that Dion can’t deliver. Surely he is suffering under such a strain that it may cause health issues? Force the election, put in an emergency replacement leader and go to the people.
Garth,
This autocratic government needs to be removed before our democracy becomes an oligarchy. Their support has not changed in the period they have been in power – stagnant. You might almost say there is a silent majority out there that are in a wait-and-see position, and will decide their vote once something happens.
Similar can be said for the Liberals. Their support has not changed much either, except for fringe players. There does seem to be some positive movement however.
So, take the 30/30 out of the equation, and you have almost half the electorate that will decide what the government will be upon election. That, to me, is significant. It seems the fear of the unknown is what is holding the LPC back – and I focus on the LPC as they truly hold the key to power here. If that is the case, perhaps THAT is what the swing vote sees, and if the LPC continues to support the CPC – while ranting about their disgust and the dangers, why would anyone support the LPC as a vote for them would essentially be a surrogate vote for the CPC.
A tough call. Wait for the “winning conditions” or take a leap of faith? Can things really get worse than they are now? Will delay provide the perfect opportunity?
My heart says bring this government down now.
My head says “what have you got to lose”?
I want OUR CANADA back. Perhaps too much time is spent talking about “my Canada”. After all, we are being “treated to” someone else’s vision of “my canada” (no caps intentional) If I should have “mine”, then why not “theirs”?
Unite for Canada. Show us a vision and hope for the future. Our ancestors took the chance of coming here to build an open, honest, and largely egalitarian country. Their vision has been degraded by the present gang of rogues.
I am not sure that the Canadian electorate will penalize the LPC for bringing down a government after all these knife to the throat threats by the Harperite oligarchs.
I am willing to take the chance of a CPC majority. If THAT is what the average Joe/Jill in Canada decide, well let them stew in their own broth. If I cannot accept that, well, there is always Australia…
In my 50+ years, I have NEVER seen a government more hated than this one. Sure, their partisans have their issues, but never have I seen such distinct polarity in the common folk. Never have I seen such division – other than the Quebec Separatists effect on our provincial politics. However, even our provincial problems are discussed with more intelligence than this Federal CRAP. I cannot stomach this happening on a national basis like it is now.
Pull the plug. Please. I implore you. Do something!!!
OFF TOPIC??
FOR THOSE OF YOU WHO CONTINUALLY BATTER QUEBEC AS “SEPARATIST”…
Quebecers most likely to say ‘I am Canadian’
Meagan Fitzpatrick, Canwest News Service Published: Wednesday, April 02, 2008
http://www.nationalpost.com/news/story.html?id=417168
The Conservatives under Stephen Harper must be defeated. Their are many issues which would defeat them. However, there is one issue that will allow then to return to power and that is lack of funds in the Liberal party. These funds are need to counter all the MSM support for conservatives, money to advertise the Liberal program, money to promote each candidate, money to show how the Conservatives are destroying this Canada of mine. Without adequate money, there is no chance in hell that the Liberals can win unless they can get the MSM to support them for free, convince the talking heads to be unbiased. Money is needed to mount a campaign of truth versus the spin by Conservatives.Money is needed to teach Liberals how to talk to ordinary Canadians with facts. Money is needed to speak to Quebec voters about the benefits of belonging in Canada and not believing that Conservatives will keep any promises they make.
Yes, I want Harper out, I do not want to have an election that has no chance of the Liberals winning even a minority. Without adequate funds it is better for the Liberals abstain (not vote against)from all votes of confidence. Remember if they abstain, when they finally come back to power they can change the laws. If they vote for a bill it would be hard to make a change at a later date. Why are there no Liberal fund raising plans talked about>
Wholeheartedly agree with bringing down government on this (immigration) – but confused about the party’s reluctance to do so – if Liberals really believe Canadians don’t want an election now, how will they know when we do? If Liberals don’t think they can win because they aren’t ready (candidates, money), when will they be ready? In my case it’s a catch-22 – a former party member and worker, I’m on the sidelines waiting for ideas, action & courage before I send even more cash.
On Leadership
I just have to get this off my mind. So many here blast M. Dion simply due to his Quebec background.
Consider this:
“32.2% of the total population, reported Canadian…(snip) 42% of people in Atlantic Canada reported their ethnic ancestry as Canadian, either alone or in combination with other ethnicities and in Quebec, it was even higher, at 60%. In other regions, the proportion ranged from 4% in Nunavut to 23% in Ontario.”
From the National Post – link posted earlier.
No where in CANADA is there a stronger affiliation with a UNITED NATION than in Quebec. Interesting to note that the 40% who declared otherwise is a similar number for the Separatist camp.
Even Ontario residents had less than Quebec, and Quebec was DOUBLE the national average.
Why shouldn’t a Quebecois lead the country?
Bigots? Got a rational answer?
Of note, history is packed with “leaders” who came to power with 30% support and made drastic changes to their country. Recently:
Stalin
Hitler
Mussolini
Saddam Hussein
etc.
Be VERY careful in blind support of a “leader”…
I can’t wait for the reaction by the expected idiots.
Now even the rabid Liberal supporters should get a “kick” out of this reply in question period, at least some have a sense of humor.
“I noticed today that the secretive and controlling Liberal Leader is now trying to turn to the courts to censor the media, and it’s based on the argument that being publicly identified as a Liberal in the province of Quebec can cause irreparable harm to someone’s reputation,” Conservative House Leader Peter Van Loan said.
By James- Chatham on 04.03.08 9:47 am
Once again Harry, you’ve missed the point. The critism isn’t about the problem, that being excessive imigration wait times. The issue is about the proposed solution giving the minister powers which a minister should not have.
No James … it’s about flooding Canada with a huge number of old, sick even criminal immigrants being united with their relatives in Canada. It’s about overwhelming our healthcare system with third world diseases. It’s about some hospital wards in Toronto filled with new immigrants exploiting our healthcare services. It’s about more multiculti Liberal voters saturating Toronto and forcing the government to split the ridings thus creating more Liberal MPs voted in by the immigrant hordes. That’s what it’s about, James, not some silly objections that you perceive.
…………………..
Its also about how the changes are being forced through the HoC, by tacking them onto an already approved, first and second reading, budget which is expected to pass final reading and which means the changes won’t be properly debated and scrutinised.
No James … it’s about correcting the devious Liberal immigration situation inherited from the Chretien-Martin-Dion governments … almost a Million immigrants on the waiting lists. Sounds familiar?? How about the inherited Liberal Kyoto delinquency over 13 years and some 32% excess GHGs?? How about all the aboriginal claims that were stalled by the previous Liberal governments?? How about dictatorial Liberal centralism that denied Quebec “nation” status and frustrating Canadian unity ???
………………….
As I stated earlier, this is the hallmark of the way Harper and his goons are sliming their agenda through the HoC.
No James .. it’s the attempt by the Harper government to pass necessary legislation in a minority situation. The Liberal opposition only wants to frustrate and destroy to make it appear the Conservatives cannot govern. The Liberals don’t really care about Canada, only to “get back to power asap” as Dion proclaimed once he was ’selected’ as leader. Your faith in Liberal dictatorship is mindless and dangerous!!!
…………………..
Once again, Garth, its time to stand up against this kind of sleasy government, defeat the budget.
Hey, showing some backbone may just be what Mr. Dion needs to improve his numbers in Quebec, which I suspect is his worry on calling an election. Only one problem with Mr. Dion’s strategy, an election is going to happen next year regardless.
No James … Garth can’t do a thing about defeating the budget, other than sitting there with his thumb up his bum on orders from the Liberal strategists who utterly fear an election any time soon. Liberals do not deserve to form a government because they are still controlled by all those old dog crooks from the corrupt Chretien-Martin era … and they must be purged out to cleanse the Liberal party. Liberals will sit in opposition for the next 10 years, and you should prepare for a majority Harper government changing Canada for the better… rejoice ..!!!
Garth – after reading all the posts – you need to share with Dion the results of not voting…It’s eating away at the credibility of the party.
The Liberals must vote on this bill. An vote against it. The polls are deadlcked (and have been for some time). They are showing no sign of moving on either side. Sometimes you need to gamble. Sometimes you need to fight for what is right.
The RESP is a great idea.
The immigration bill is poor at best.
The fact that the immigration bill is “hidden” in the budget is dispicable (even if it was fantastic legislation).
Only one way to vote, my friend. Proudly, loudly and “No”.
David Marshall,
thanks for that quote from Lee Iacocca, and thanks to Iacocca for publishing his thoughts.
Those Harrisites love omnibus bills rammed through parliament!
Diane Finley , in her own words said last night on the news that getting immigration status is a priviledge not a right. Perhaps we should remind her that her MP status is also a priviledge and not a right. This is yet another example of how the REFORM party continues to refuse and abuse our system that we have fondly come to know as DEMOCRACY.
Should there be an election, Canadians will do more than just remind the CRAP, we will exercise OUR RIGHT and vote them out on their priviledged butts.
Time to butt them out.
Ron p
Mr Garth TurnerMP,
About how many PMSH MPs members were in the House to here your speach?
The Libs will have a chance to vote against the immigration plan in the House of Commons , right?
No. Read the posting. The bill does not separate the immigration changes for separate scrutiny. Would you like crayons? — Garth
By John L on 04.02.08 9:26 pm
Can you get anymore condescending, Garth? You are a “servant” of the people are you not?
By Harry S on 04.03.08 10:35 am
READ THE POLLS!
I see in your posting picture,Mrs.Finley has on the dark glasses(unlike the rose colored ones the lieberals wear)Is that to stop the glare from the empty lieberal seats across from her in the HofC?
I’m lucky I was one of those who thought they were Canadian citizens but I wasn’t the luck was that I discovered this some years after an extended stay in another country. Upon discovery I made haste to become a citizen. It took me the mandatory five years plus to get my citizenship but if Diane Finley had her way I wouldn’t be one today.
Garth please when this back door bill comes to a vote call thier bluff and vote it down.
Excellent presentation Garth. Thanks for voicing the views of Canadians. Instead of trying to change and manipulate how Canadians think about issues “around the kitchen table”, you give their thoughts and wishes voice.
It’s unfortunate and frustrating for you that you have to abstain in line with the failed strategy of your Party.
You should have stayed Independent.
Janice,
“servant” of the people, yes, football of trolls, no.
I’ve just watched your speech on CPAC. Well done!! You made this Liberal proud.
I am so tired of (and embarrassed by) this minority Conservative government, which routinely demonstrates its contempt for Parliament and the Canadian people. Please bring down this Conservative/Reform government.
It seems to me that, on the election trail, you only need to contrast the Liberal vision, platform and record with the long list of Conservative deceptions and betrayals. Please ensure that Canadians hear the true story of Stephane Dion’s accomplishments in government. Focus especially on the environmental plan he had put in place, which was cancelled when the Conservative/Reform government came to power. The Liberals were “getting it done” on environment, childcare, aboriginal issues. It was when the Harper government came to power that the environmental programs, the childcare program, the Kelowna Accord, the Court Challenges Program, women’s programs, etc., etc., … were gutted.
Harper promised to change Canada so that we would not recognize it. He has already made far too many of these changes, by stealth and subterfuge, in the dark of night (e.g., the firing of Linda Keen). The pattern is one of broken promises, bullying, shameless twisting of the truth, and an apparent total disregard for the wellbeing of Canada and Canadians. The only thing that appears to matter to the Harper government is to get and keep power.
Others on this blog have already suggested that you bring this government down and trust the Canadian people to meet you halfway.
I agree wholeheartedly. Bring down the Harper government and trust the wisdom of the Canadian people!
Thanks to David Marshall for sending the excerpt from Lee Iaccoca’s latest book. Wouldn’t it have been great if those stirring words had come from a Canadian, a statesperson, polictian or otherwise. This omnibus bill has clarified for me the “go, no-go” inertia of the party I’ve supported my entire voting life. Garth, don’t bother quoting any of us in the House since no one will hear you anyway over the din. Instead, quote us verbatim in caucus so that your colleagues will know with certainty that we’re sick, sore and tired of the strategizing, the agonized hand-wringing, the navel gazing. Get off your duffs! Vote for or against somthing because it’s RIGHT, not because it’s expedient. If you haven’t got the respect of the electorate behind you -and your’re rapidly losing mine – then you haven’t got much.
Obviously someone in the Department of Finance is concerned with the prospect that Jim Flaherty may become politically associated with his devious and underhanded moves to double tax RRSPs.
This is a gold mine for the opposition parties to exploit, which they have not. Flaherty’s idea of “leveling the playing field” is to double tax RRSPs, while giving pension plans like Teachers’ a special break.
I say this because the CAITI blog had a visitor today (3:13 pm) from “Finance Canada and Treasury Board’ who was directed to our blog by way of a Google search, after entering the key words “Flaherty double taxing RRSPs”.
It’s about time that people wake up to the reality that Flaherty has begun double taxing RRSPs. What do you think the Tax Free Savings Account (TFSA) is all about? It’s a rear guard attempt to substitute a less attractive vehicle (TFSA) in exchange for a more attractive saving vehicle (RRSP).
The article that this visitor was directed to on our blog were two fold:
(1) The origin of species: RRSPs
(2) The Self Benevolent Tax Policies of Jim Flaherty
http://caiti-online.blogspot.com/2008/04/revealing-visitor-to-caiti-blog.html
he’s an MP, not a doormat. what century are you in?
Hey Garth,
You know…despite my initial chagrin at watching the LPC abstain, I’m beginning to like watching how the CPC functions under these circumstances. I think it gives a nice picture on how the CPC would function as government if they had the majority.
The clear advantage is that because it is a minority situation, the CPC can try to underhandedly introduce legislation that caters to their social conservative BS, but it will not continue unless they work with Parliament, or as they usually do, abuse the system to their fullest ability.
They have tried to implement things in a half-assed manner, paying lip-service to the desires of Canadians. Not only does what they do amount to nothing, but thank God, because of their minority status, nothing will come of it either.
I think that it is perhaps a good idea to frame all of this to us the Canadian public is as follows:
“We, the LPC, knowing that we have the balance of power, are undergoing this ritual of abstention because we think that it is important. It is important to show to you what we have known for a number of years with our interaction with the CPC in day-to-day parliamentary business. We wish to show you clearly how government will function if the CPC is granted a majority.
What it is attempting to achieve as a minority is just a glimpse into the way that it would irrevocably destroy Canadian institutions and ideals and very fabric of our nation. Time and time again, the CPC demonstrates its utter disregard and disdain for Parliament. And this is under a situation where they can, if they wished, achieved compromise legislation that truly reflected the will of the Canadian people.
If we suffer as a party because of the media perception of being “push-overs”, our reputation is a minor thing to sacrifice when compared to the future of our country.
This is our purpose which we have neglected to have presented to you, those who we strive to represent in government. Please have faith in us and our ability and most importantly, our desire to preserve the institutions that have made our country respected and admired throughout the world as leaders.”
Austin
Garth, are the Bank of Canada amendments also part of this Budget or an Implementation Bill?
Amendments that would extend their latitude to accept all types of collateral and also to extend the terms of their loans.
A little of topic re:Immigration.
Yesterday the vote to lower flags was unanimous.But the Con-Reform regime decided to ignore it.
Yet we have James Moore saying this in the house in 2004.
That this House demand the Prime Minister instruct all federal government buildings to immediately lower all Canadian flags to half-mast to recognize the tragic death of Lieutinant Chris Saunders yesterday on the HMCS Chicoutimi.
I definitely do not agree that Canadian military deaths should become partisan fodder in the HofC.
It’s the hipocracy of it that drives me mad.Not to mention that whether a person agrees or not is lost in not only that fact but in the one that dismisses a democratic vote so brazenly.
What’s next? The Con-Reforms ignoring a confidence vote to bring them down by saying’” I don’t care what you say we’re staying.”
Call an election.
Where are the Liberal Talking Points?
Dick Harris uses PC talking points
Conservative party ready for federal election
By Autumn MacDonald – Quesnel Cariboo Observer – April 02, 2008
When a federal election is called, they’re ready.
“I’m fully confident we’ll receive the highest vote share this riding has ever seen,” Member of Parliament Dick Harris told Conservative Party Cariboo-Prince George District Association members during Saturday’s annual meeting.
On the agenda was election of the executive and a yearly review.
EDA president Tom Newell predicted an October 2009 election and said members needed to be prepared to campaign and, most importantly, support their MP.
“It is incumbent we have the best government for our children and our grandchildren,” he said.
Harris highlighted the Conservative government’s accomplishments, first pointing to seniors’ issues.
Those include:
• Introduce pension income splitting.
• Increase the age credit limit by $1,000 (to $5,177) retroactive to Jan. 1, 2007.
• Increased the maximum amount eligible for pension income that can be claimed under the pension income credit for $1,000 to $2,000.
• Expanded compassionate care benefits.
• Established the National Seniors Council, whose mandate is to advise the government on issues of national importance to Canadian seniors.
• Increase the new horizons for seniors’ budget by $10 million (from $25 million to $35 million).
• Introduced Bill C-43, increasing GIS by seven per cent.
• Increased Service Canada points of service to 595, including outreach and mobile services.
• Increased the maximum amount eligible for spousal or common law partner credit to $8,929.
“And there’s our Seniors Wellness Fair,” Harris said.
“It’s bigger and better than ever. It’s these types of initiatives that get voters over that ‘hump’ and start looking at us.”
Harris said it’s the good work of Prime Minister Stephen Harper that has never-seen-before voters turning to the Conservatives.
“People are starting to see the benefits,” Harris said.
“I think we’ll see an entirely new constituency rooting for us.”
Harris also pointed to Building Canada, a national program designed to address infrastructure.
“We’ve made the largest investment to Canada’s infrastructure,” he said.
“Thirty-three billion and we’ll turn that into $100 billion in the next seven years. That will go a long way in fixing our deficit.”
Harris also highlighted forestry issues, calling B.C. issues ‘special problems.’
“Forestry is cyclical,” he said. “There will be good times and there will be bad times.
“But during the down time there’s an opportunity for transformation to begin.
“And I believe this will make things better, more profitable and efficient.
“There are good times ahead again.”
Cariboo-PG association members hold AGM, set goals for 2008
Garth/anyone…
Semantics, I suppose, but I’m confused about how a Budget Implementation (money)/Immigration (not money) bill would be passed.
“Its only in Second Reading debate so it either hangs in Committee or reaches Third next month.”
By Brian Dondo on 04.03.08 2:17 am
Which Committee? Would the Finance Committee discuss an Immigration Bill? Would the Citizenship & Immigration Committee discuss the Budget Implementation Bill?
I do hope that during the next election campaign all these Harper Party dirty tricks will be included in Liberal campaign literature.
David Marshall 9.24am-great post. A call to Action-WE ALL HAVE A ROLE TO PLAY! Mr. Iaccoca nails it.All of our voices are needed to speak out against the status quo.PRINCIPLES BEFORE PERSONALITIES!!! What do we stand and fight for? You know!TELL OTHERS! What does FINLEY,FLANAGAN,REYNOLDS&BRODIE stand for? I’m not well-versed in REFOOOORRRRM policy but what I understand is this-FIGHT IT!It’s Un-Canadian. And I respect our leader,Mr.Dion,whom I believe,unlike Pecked by Ducks,is not an emergency stand-in,but our ELECTED LEADER,unlike F.F.R.&Brodie,and is the embodiement of what we need in a leader-find out why people need and respond to “cool leaders” as opposed to “hot”-guns blazing,wild wild west,bullying,swift-boating,jerry-mandering,cherry-picking,deceptive…ok?p.s.Pecked-we win on PRINCIPLES & PERSONALITIES imo. I’ve done without-live lean today-and am prepared to fight for the good of the people…peace!
The problem is that Dion has no cred. So he won’t call an election. He won’t get any cred until he does. Even if he loses the election, he’ll win credibility. The Liberals HAVE to do it.
Sometimes I wonder if Harper and Flaherty are sitting giggling somewhere dreaming up new stuff just to watch the Liberals abstain and lose face.
Tell Dion et all to get some gonads.
Ducks, I realize you said Mr. Dion should be replaced by an ‘emergency stand-in’ but my point still stands.Thanks.
Seems Garth is way out of touch with many Canadians, yet again.
From BC’s South Asian Post:
Our Liberal-era immigration system is not allowing Canada to harvest what it needs from the global talent pool to make this country stronger. It has been good for the Liberals, who were more interested in wooing the ethnic vote, and it has been good for families, which were allowed to bring in grandpa, grandma and an assortment of non-economic kin under reunification programs.
But it has not been all that good for Canada. While the queue to enter Canada was getting longer and longer, many with the skills that could help develop our nation left the line-up for other countries.
In addition, tens of thousands of immigrants, who were never expected to be net-contributors, were simply being given visas to join family already here. We are not saying that family reunification programs need to be stopped. But Canada has to realize that we need more “net-contributer” immigrants than “net-consumer” immigrants.
This new bill would allow officers to fast-track applications to meet shifting labour demands.
Doctors, nurses and hospitality industry workers will be able to get to Canada faster and contribute immediately instead of languishing in line. This change is critical for immigration to work in Canada because it will help bolster our cradle-to-grave social programs.
The opposition Liberals’ and the NDP’s whisper campaigns about the Tories being racist and wanting to shut the door on Asian immigrants are just that – smear tactics aimed at frightening new Canadians.
Canada’s hope for the future lies in immigration. It’s not about how many we take but who we take that will distinguish Canada.
I don’t see a problem with a country having the right to determine who they want in the country. Do we really need more people without skills draining our welfare system. Is this fair for all of the immigrants that built this country and are proud to be Canadian. I for one do not want a bunch of people coming here to use my countries benefits and feel no obligation to at least learn the language (either french or english).
Why do you want your tax dollars going to people who have not put 1 day of hard work into this country. I’ve paid taxes for 20 years and have never been on welfare or UI and I have to keep paying more so some sick 80 year old can come here and use our health care system? I see commercials about hiring skilled immigrants.We should only bring skilled immigrants in. Why do we need people without skills or abilities in our country. Don’t we have enough poor people here already without adding more? For one I am sick of people coming to this country and taking and giving nothing back. I think it is an insult to every hardwoorking immigrant that we would let in anyone who isn’t able to offer soomething to the country. Why do they want to come here? Could it be because their country is a craphole and now they want to keep everything from their country and not learn our languages or what it means to be Canadaian. How can a minority government push anything through. Easy the Libs and NDP are spineless chatterboxes that do a lot of talking and not much else. I still remember Chretien saying he will scrap the GST and yet it took a PC govt to lower it. Oh ya Garth takes credit for that. Makes sense.
Liberals and NDP just swing in the wind and wait for what’s popular and that’s what they’re for.
Bigot. — Garth
Received this a.m. — some of you may know of this, some not.
***************************************
http://www.snopes.com/computer/virus/mailserver.asp
Anyone-using Internet mail such as Yahoo, Hotmail, AOL and so on.
This information arrived this morning, Direct from both Microsoft and
Norton.
Please send it to everybody you know who has access to the Internet.
You may receive an apparently harmless e-mail titled ‘Mail Server Report’
If you open either file, a message will appear on your screen saying:’It is too late now, your life is no longer beautiful.’
Subsequently you will LOSE EVERYTHING IN YOUR PC, and the person who sent it to you will gain access to your name, e-mail and password.
This is a new virus which started to circulate on Saturday afternoon. AOL has already confirmed the severity, and the anti virus software’s are not capable of destroying it.
The virus has been created by a hacker who calls himself ‘life owner’.
PLEASE SEND A COPY OF THIS E-MAIL TO ALL YOUR FRIENDS, and ask them to
PASS IT ON IMMEDIATELY!
THIS HAS BEEN CONFIRMED BY SNOPES
http://www.snopes.com/computer/virus/mailserver.asp
Garth,
As your constituent here’s my voice:
First while I dissagree with adding non-money matters to teh budget implementation bills I also am aginst oposition making legislation for the government to implement.
Second, I agree with the change in the immigration law and, based on your comments and position during Lenbanon crisis and evacuation, you must welcome it too.
Garth-Bravo to John Cannis for his points in todays’ debate…hammer those points home please,please please…you guys are shining!!!
I am very worried by how bold BCE is right now. I am also worried that they have the full support of the government. There is a fair case to be made that independent telecoms are still firmly latched on to the Bell teat, but it is starting to look like Bell is going to be allowed to run roughshod over everyone, which is not a solution.
Immigration reform plan worries bar association
Puts too much power in hands of officials, legal group says
And there you have it.
http://www.thestar.com/News/Canada/article/409414
It has to go come back from somewhere before third reading. My guess would be Finance (5 CPC v 7 Opposition) although I’m not sure how that’s decided.
Bigot. — Garth
By Andrew M on 04.03.08 12:54 pm
Care to explain why countering Andrew’s points?
Are you kidding? Read the post. Unskilled newcomers = poor people he has to support with his taxes. What a load of crap that is. — Garth
What’s next? The Con-Reforms ignoring a confidence vote to bring them down by saying’” I don’t care what you say we’re staying.”
By Ted Browne on 04.03.08 12:12 pm
I can’t imagine an honest political party doing that!
Bigot. — Garth
By Andrew M on 04.03.08 12:54 pm
Is that how you encourage debate, Garth?
Perhaps you might consider addressing the voter’s concern. Perhaps you might consider presenting the liberal position on immigration, the criteria you believe should be used for admittance into Canada.
By Harry S on 04.03.08 10:35 am
Thank you Harry for clearing up the BS., you missed a bit.
I agreed there is a problem with the waiting times. Did you not understand?
But if it is about all the things you speak off, then why is this government, attaching such important changes to a budget bill?
And don’t give me its the only way they, as a minority government, can get the changes through the HoC. They managed to get the Afghanistan mission extension approved, which I would say is just as, if not more, contentious. How? Did they attach it to a bill that had already passed first and second reading? No, they debated it and through consultation (the Libs actual wrote 90% plus of the final motion) came up with a solution that the majority of the house could agree with.
And that, my dear Harry S, is how a minority government should work. It should not be a game of oneupmanship, or sneaking and coniving by the government to gets its agenda passed by tacking legislation onto bills were there are no connections.
BTW. I guess that makes me one of those that, “it’s about flooding Canada with a huge number of old, sick even criminal immigrants being united with their relatives in Canada. It’s about overwhelming our healthcare system with third world diseases. It’s about some hospital wards in Toronto filled with new immigrants exploiting our healthcare services. It’s about more multiculti Liberal voters saturating Toronto and forcing the government to split the ridings thus creating more Liberal MPs voted in by the immigrant hordes!” Oh, but you would say 1988, that was in Mulroney’s term, so it doesn’t count. Hey, there were line ups back then, too!
But then again Harry, unless you are a First Nations member, you, too, would included as your residence in this great country is as a result of an immigrant coming from elsewhere. And BTW. its not just third world countries that have different deseases than Canada. Why the heck to you think Ag. Canada and the US. border agents ask you what fruit and veg your carrying, ow where you’ve been?
Harry, once again you prove you have no understanding except for the BS. being fed to you from the CPC. Your bowel bacteria must just be thriving on it!
Bigot. — Garth
By Andrew M on 04.03.08 12:54 pm
Care to explain why countering Andrew’s points?
Are you kidding? Read the post. Unskilled newcomers = poor people he has to support with his taxes. What a load of crap that is. — Garth
No. What he was against waere the people that will want to come to Canada just to enjoy the benefits of either canadian social services or Canadian passport, without any intent of contributing to this country.
This is fully in line with your position during Lebanon evacuation when you were appalled at learning that Lebanon citizens in posession of canadian citisenship that have left Canada and permanently moved to Lebanon many years back were rescued from Lebanon on canadian taxpayers money. At that time you actually called that these people should get billed for the government efforts.
Apples and Buicks. — Garth
How was it that Liberal Judy Sgro as Minister of Immigration was able to fast track “exotic dancers” to come to Canada?
Did this discriminate against women in the immigration lines who would not take off their clothes for money?
Garth’s position:
http://www.ctv.ca/servlet/ArticleNews/story/CTVNews/20060919/evacuation_tab_060919?s_name=&no_ads=
http://www.garth.ca/weblog/2006/07/19/lebanon-conundrum/
Garth,
Read this to your leadership:
“VOTE NO” “TAKE OUT THE TRASH”
Over and out.
Our Canadian Parliament is beginning to look like a pyramid marketing scheme. The MP’s in both the Conservative & Liberal parties, who are working hard for their Constituents & the party don’t appear to have any authority to vote!
It’s high time for an MP revolution. If your party doesn’t respect your right to vote as a Representative of your Constituents, then demand it for them, not for yourselves & show your party you mean to do business not to sit on your hands in your seats & watch an undemocratic Parliament in action.
The Voters are getting sick of this ‘imitation of parliamentary procedure’ where we’re simply the ‘retail buyers’ in a slick political marketing scam to the ‘Distributors’ our elected Representative have become!
It’s time to get to work & make Canada a democratic country which is was, & can be again when MP’s unite to insist upon it.
It’s time for our democratically elected MP’s to quit working for the ‘reward points peanuts’ thrown at them by their respective leaders, & to start selling wholesale goods to those who paid & are still paying for them to represent them.
Time for a political revolution in this great country of ours! MP’s get off your hands & tell your parties you demand to speak, to be heard, & to be listened to. Stop being ‘party animals’ & start representing those who sent you to parliament in the first place.
Thank You!
Garth how am I a bigot? Is that how our MP’s respond to a voters comments? A one word answer? I had some respect for you previously but it’s seriously waning now. Maybe I’ll run against you next term and kick your ass out of parliament.
Go for it. Perhaps you can find some of those unemployed poor non-contributing immigrants you spoke of to assist you. Bigot. — Garth
Thank you Janice for your comments. It’s a typical liberal response to attack without actually saying what their plan is. Their whole party is founded on the basis of “we’re not PC so vote for us”. What do you stand for Garth? Would you like your tax dollars go to people who currently live in this country and need our help or to people who just want to suck from the gov’t teat and not give anything back. I understand this country was built on immigration and I don’t have a problem with immigration. I have a problem with people who take and don’t give back. Where is the load of crap and bigotry in that.
OK, the proposed new scheme fast-tracks the entry of A.B. who is a professional with foreign credentials into Canada. A.B. now has to meet the requirements of the provincially chartered professional body, and until those requirements are met, what we have is an unqualified recent immigrant person. We have not gained a doctor, a nurse, a professional engineer, a forester, an accountant, a lawyer, a dentist or whatever. How long does this process take? Ask the regulatory bodies.
In the meantime, what has been gained is another opportunity for bribery and corruption.
I don’t know about you, but from where I sit the immigration process isn’t the problem, it is the protectionism in the professional bodies.
Tape with Sask premier, Tory MP Tom Lukiwski has bigoted comments
REGINA — The Saskatchewan New Democrats say they’ve found a 16-year-old videotape with Premier Brad Wall and Conservative MP Tom Lukiwski which contains sexist, racist and homophobic comments.
Deputy NDP leader Pat Atkinson says the comments, especially by Lukiwski, are “disturbing and quite hateful,” and Wall needs to explain them.
The New Democrats say they found the tape when they moved into Opposition offices after Wall’s Saskatchewan Party won last fall’s provincial election.
Lukiwski was a Tory organizer at the time and Wall was a ministerial aide
Janice thank you for your comments. Ad on thanks to you as well. I’m glad some people actually read and think and don’t just react. How about offering a counterpoint to my argument other than saying it’s a load of crap.
When I first read the legislation my thought was ‘Christians need only apply” but I was willing to give them the benefit of the doubt until I read the clause that you can only claim refugee status from within Canada?
WTF?
This is assuming I read the bill correctly but if a person is in the middle of a war or persecuted or in a ‘camp’ that person would have to have the money and find a way to get here and then apply for refugee status???
I was Appalled.
Although I would like to see an election called I’m willing to wait until Dion decides the battle. And no I don’t think Dion is weak. That man has Class.
Class is something Harper and his minions will try to achieve but is an unattainable goal for them. You can’t have class when you’re filled with spite and vindictiveness.
No garth all those unemployed poor non contributors already vote liberal. I’d get the votes of the people that actually care about this countyr and would like to see it grow and prosper. We already have enough people on the govt dole without adding to it.
I’d like to see equivalency standards set up with the countries that people are coming from. Lets say someone is an accountant in their country. Shouldn’t we have a program that says a degree from Country “X” is equivalent to this in Canada and you need “X” amount of education to get the Canadian equivalent. Where is the bigotry in that? Why don’t I have a right to say where my tax dollars go?
Ad, Get with the program, you must know Garth’s comments at the time re: Lebanese evacuees, weren’t his, Garth was just towing the Party line back then; Good to know we can trust Garth now for speaking his mind, and representing the views of his constituents..
Ha, ha. Good one. — Garth
William, you’ve hit the nail on the head. Government has no input on professional designations. This bill has absolutely no worth for what it seeks to achieve.
Personally, I think the CPC works by finding ways for people who are “with them” to benefit through material gain. Professional immigrants are more likely to have wealth to “grease the wheels”, and there stands some “nudge-nudge-wink-wink” perks for immigration officials who can offer queue-jumping to the highest bidder.
Austin
The question seems to be not who is deserving to enter Canada, and I might add that there are plenty of Canadians who based on the questionnaire would not even qualify as immigrants, but rather if the Minister of Immigration is gaining the ability to bypass due process at will. It’s the capability, not the intention that matters. Intentions can change.
MR Turner MP, are the Bank of Canada amendments also part of this Budget or an Implementation Bill?
Amendments that would extend their latitude to accept all types of collateral and also to extend the terms of their loans.
Why can’t anybody just say what the Cons want – An Aryan Nation with a few PoC to grease the cogs.
By Andrew M on 04.03.08 2:21 pm
Are you for real? How would you go about having a say where your tax dollars go? You vote for an MP that runs on a party platform, then when they get to Ottawa, they vote as told by the party. The party itself decides which promises they will keep and which ones they will break. So where do you get a say in all of this? I suspect you have joined the 66 some odd percent of voters who have been duped by the party system. I get quite a kick over voting time after time expecting some change and we end up with the same old, same old! Sorry my friend, you have no say, haven’t for years and years, you just think you do. Better we have an independent government or an appointed one.
Garth
Who pays the salaries in the PMO? Is it the “Ruling” Party or taxpayers?
Anyone?
You do. — Garth
Hey folks… just got one of those infamous flyers from the government via my MPP Dave Van K.
Is the Conservative Government on the right track with border issues?
For those fortunate enough not to get one,
“Hundreds of thousanads of CDN jobs depend on trade across the Canada-US border. At the same time, we must be vigilant to ensure Canadians remain safe from smuglers, criminals and other security risks. By working woth our international partners, we are doing more to keep our border open for business ehile protecting Canada from outside threats. We’re keepin Canada both safe and competitive.”
Sounds good, doesn’t it? But all it says is that they are doing their job but doesn’t tell us exactly what they’ve done. Armed border guards (eventually) ok. that’s good. Talking up the dollar, that’s bad for keeping Canada competitive. And what about SPP and NAU, we never hear anything from the Cons about those.
I guess I’ll give them a reserved passing grade for just showing up!
Tape scandal involves Sask. Premier, Tory MP: NDP
BRODIE FENLON AND JENNIFER MACMILLAN
Globe and Mail Update and Canadian Press
April 3, 2008 at 3:24 PM EDT
http://www.theglobeandmail.com/servlet/story/RTGAM.20080403.wMPontape0403/BNStory/National/home
“We should just choose the best. The present system is not fair. Fairness means we don’t put the queue jumpers ahead; criminal refugees are deported quickly. We try not to burden our schools with English as a second language.”
Here’s a quote regarding immigration from a well known politician that is notorious for calling Canadians bigots and other demeaning names.
By pjw on 04.03.08 2:55 pm
It is reasons like you have given that has me leaning to say F@#$ all the big parties and casting my vote for a good independant. If I fail to find a good independant to vote for then I will unfortunatly have to abstain from voting in the next general election. I always thought that those who don’t vote can’t bitch, but the Liberal party has shown me we can still do both.
I’m sure we’ve all heard about MD’s driving taxis because Canadian hospitals won’t hire them & the Canadian government won’t licence them to practice in Canada, so who the blazes is this ‘priority immigration’ going to help?
Immigration ‘favourtism’ is just another way this current government is killing democracy in Canada.
Other than First Nations’ Citizens of Canada, all the rest of us come from ‘immigrant stock’! Can you imagine what Canada would be like today if our ancestors were all processed, graded & rejected like cattle, if they weren’t wealthy, highly educated, etc?
If the Liberals allow this undemocratic immigration process to pass in parliament, then you will be written up in the history books as the most unopposing opposition party in the Canadian Parliamentary System.
If Stephane Dion doesn’t vote against this ‘favourtism immigration’ policy, when he himself is not only an immigrant but a person who holds dual cititzenship, then shame on him, for disgracing his fellow immigrants & all the people of Canada.
Canada was built by immigrants. They came to Canada unwealthy, uneducated, etc. back when Canada was a young country & gave her untold wealth, & a richness in education that can never be replaced by status alone. We must honour our immigrants & welcome them, for they give Canada far more than they take.
Vote against it and urge your fellow MP’s to do the same. By Brian
Garth will vote as he is told or he will abstain as he is told or he will not show up as he is told by Dion and the party whip.
To those in need of patience-do we see the whites of their eyes yet? Lotta brown to be waded through still…We bring the fight to them-they don’t own the words or the definitions.They don,t get to decide what WE DO! Get lost trolls-your bait stinks. Garth is right-BIGOT!
Garth
Who pays the salaries in the PMO? Is it the “Ruling” Party or taxpayers?
Anyone?
You do. — Garth
The same as the employees in the Leader of the Opposition’s Office.
Yep. — Garth
Why can’t anybody just say what the Cons want – An Aryan Nation with a few PoC to grease the cogs.
By Molly on 04.03.08 2:48 pm
Molly, your comment is disgusting to say the least and says a lot about yourself.
TO AD 04.03.08
Thanks for the post. I trust that is your point of view and do not see how anyone could refer to you as a “bigot” bsed on the content.
Your post that pointed out Mr Turner’s views on Lebanon are making the identical point that you were making. Here is a case of someone trying to run away from their record.
As for the talk in the House on this bill that is exactly what it is “Talk”. The problem is that no one was listening.
The NDP were to put forward a motion to strip this from the bill. All that has to be done by the Liberals is to support the NDP and the government will be defeated.
The NDP supported the Liberals on the flag motion and it passed.
Show some spine and either vote with the NDP or vote against the Implementation of the Budget. Either way this insertion into the budget will not pass.
Well expressed insight Austin,thanks.
Andrea Timmons – AMEN SISTER. It’s long past time for the back bencher to take back the house.
Some may have read this before, but it’s still good for a laugh.
***************************************
I went into the gas station today and
asked for five dollars worth of gas.
The clerk farted and gave me a receipt.
***************************************
Two contrasting reports in today’s KDC, both of which give a good look at life in general here in the Okanagan.
In the lower psychic regions, it is known that nothing can exist, except in relation to its’ opposite.
For example: War – peace, heaven – hell, good – evil, love – hate, rich – poor, male – female, positive – negative, up – down, etc. If one is not in existence, the other or opposite cannot possibly exist either.
So on the front page, the most expensive home in Kelowna (not even waterfront) has been sold for $7.2 mln., to a 29-year-old man, possibly an NHL player, as the realtor said he only intends to use the home in summer.
The opposing report is on A4, which says the Calgary Food Bank has bailed out the KFB with non-perishable items.
B.C. reputedly has the highest child poverty rates in the country, and one in six now lives below the poverty line. The KFB distributes approx. $6,000 / day for those in need, and the demand for help is increasing.
In England, some soccer stars are paid in excess of 50,000 pounds a week, mainly due to lucrative TV sponsorship deals with Setanta, FOX and BSkyB.
Now most, if not all things are out of kilter with one another. Instead of becoming a global village, circumstances have dictated the opposite to everyone, and that humanity is now becoming more and more isolated; I guess this is the way of life down here.
****************************************
Speaking of nothing in particular, today’s WW:
“When buying and selling are controlled by legislation, the first things to be bought and sold are legislators.” — P.J. O’Rourke
This brings to mind a simple question: Has anyone researched as to the possibilty of whether CRAP could be sold — as an entity — on eBay?
If CRAP, via e-Bay was sold for a penny to someone living on Pluto, this would give the vast majority of Cdns. a strong sense of satisfaction that our country is now CRAP-free!
Dion will lay down and take it like the pu$$y he is.
Is that any way for a God-fearing Conservative prairie woman to speak? Or are you a pimpled young turk operative in the PMO? — Garth
Garth will vote as he is told or he will abstain as he is told or he will not show up as he is told by Dion and the party whip.
By Van on 04.03.08 3:35 pm
As will ever party member in the House, aren’t you glad you have a vote that is meaningless!
I don’t agree with a bill going through in some underhanded way and I don’t even know what the bill says. All I’m saying is we need to change our immigration policy so it’s fair to 1. the immigrants applying to the greates country in the world and 2. fair to the people that pay for it ie: the taxpayers. I think it is a shame that educated people from all over the world have to take jobs below their qualifications because the government hasn’t taken the time to find out what the education standards are. I don’t think it is a good idea to bring more people in that require government assistance when we already have people living here that aren’t getting enough help. Is it fair to a person being turned away from a shelter because of a lack of funding. Sorry we can’t help you we don’t have the money. Too bad you’re not from another country because we’d have all sorts of money for you.
I’ve stated some opinions here and I’m anxious to hear what Mr. Turner says in response. Exactly which racial or ethnic group have I treated with hated or intolerance? I’m intolerant to takers and users. Dooes that make me a bigot?
Dion will lay down and take it like the pu$$y he is.
Is that any way for a God-fearing Conservative prairie woman to speak? Or are you a pimpled young turk operative in the PMO? — Garth
Lol, she could have called the Prime Minister a piece of shit and got no complaints from you!
Garth, we’re with you.
I note AUSTIN’s 11:58 AM post is worth the read
My two cents: I’m good with whatever you and Dion think is the best for Canada. Go, Garth, Go!
On another buried news note, overshadowed by Harper’s photos ops today, NATO announcement snuck in….
Leaders declare U.S. missile defense shield for Europe, Rice tells reporters Russia should stop criticizing
Hello, another one scratched off NeoCon TO DO list.
Most readers know the dots connect, so Harper’s buddies continue to manipulate their way:
Read or google for fun and terror… buzz words Harper NeoCons PNAC
starter set on Harper + NeoCons
http://goliath.ecnext.com/coms2/gi_0199-6167968/Minority-report-in-their-first.html
Rampant lust of our elites for unearned riches, unrestrained power
http://baltimorechronicle.com/2008/040308Floyd.shtml
Dark Passage – The Path of Action
http://empireburlesquenow.blogspot.com/2005/03/dark-passage-pnacs-blueprint-for.html
A Strategy Foretold
http://www.fpif.org/papers/foretold_body.html
PNAC’s own site (they really do believe in what they’re doing!)
http://www.newamericancentury.org/
TRYING to get the word out about NeoCons:
http://www.crisispapers.org/Editorials/PNAC-Primer.htm
http://www.pnac.info/
ROBERT MCCLELLAND ON 04.02.08 9:07 PM said:
The Conservatives don’t want an open debate on immigration because they know it will unleash a flood of bigotry from their supporters just like the immigration debate did in the US.
I agree.
re: TOBIAS KAISER ON 04.03.08 6:23 AM
Good ideas Tobias!
Is Tobias on to something?
As will ever party member in the House, aren’t you glad you have a vote that is meaningless!
By pjw on 04.03.08 4:23 pm
I agree with you PJW, Unfortunately that is the way our party system works. However, I will continue to vote just the same.
The same as the employees in the Leader of the Opposition’s Office.
Yep. — Garth
ROFL,Good Grief, we agree Garth. What is this world coming to?
Just read about Macallum’s response to today’s motion. I can’t believe Mulclair made such a basic mistake. Going by the 2005 numbers (haven’t chased them for a while) he was 3 for 4 wrong central-to-central as well.
’bout bloody time someone took a shot back at that crowd.
“Tory MP apologizes for taped homophobic remarks”
How many other Tory MP’s are say “The A’s are guys like me. The B’s are homosexual faggots with dirt in their fingernails that transmit diseases”?
Cause apparently there is at least one!
http://www.theglobeandmail.com/servlet/story/RTGAM.20080403.wMPontape0403/BNStory/National/home
I happen to think my $1.75 a year is well worth the fight.
Blah blah blah,whine whine whine.If you don’t like it,vote against it, or SHUT THE HELL UP.I repeat,if you don’t like it, vote against it or SHUT THE HELL UP.I repeat………
By Bob R. on 04.02.08 8:47 pm
Wow ! Such eloquence .
I don’t think many realize that educated immigrants have problems finding jobs, not because of any immigration policy, but because businesses do not regard foreign experience or credentials as valid in Canada. It doesn’t matter if it is some kind of accreditation or license, a professional designation, or simply any white collar job.
No change in legislation is going to alter the ability for immigrants to get a job in Canada.
If the CPC wants to do something about jobs for immigrants, then the issue is to legislate businesses to accommodate, which is the very antithesis of what the CPC stands for.
My father was highly educated, had tons of work experience in an american company in Korea, and when he immigrated, he was extremely fortunate to get a job the day after he landed. The problem was that he was told flat out that he could only be paid 30% of what his co-workers were being paid at the time (1968) for exactly the same job.
Another outcome of focusing on skilled/professional labour is that by increasing the skilled labour supply, the CPC will effectively lower overall wages in Canada.
Most immigrants are hard working and refuse to take welfare. They come here to improve their lives, not welch off the government.
Austin
Ignatieff comments taken from the Liberal website follows.
Quote”We cannot fix the immigration backlog by giving the Minister powers to pick her favorite immigrants,” said Mr. Ignatieff. “We cannot fix the backlog by throwing a meager $22 million at the problem. We cannot fix the backlog by cherry-picking the queue, and we should not fix the backlog by capping immigration levels.”Unquote”
My question is What is the Liberals solution to fixing the back log. It is so easy to criticize the Conservative’s solution but Ignatieff and the Liberals for that matter proves that it is so much harder to offer a solution.
Garth what is the Liberals solution to resolve the back log? Do they actually have one?
It is a question world leaders couldn’t bring themselves to ask Prime Minister Stephen Harper, much to his amusement
Jesus H Christ
will this guy EVER learn to keep his mouth shut when its not HIS ass on the line?!?
That stupid ass-clown is one faux-pas after another.
By Brent Fullard on 04.03.08 2:13 pm
I viewed the tape
http://www.theglobeandmail.com/servlet/Page/document/video/vs?id=RTGAM.20080403.wvcomments0403&ids=RTGAM.20080403.wvcomments0403,RTGAM.20080403.wvtape0403
And I say – that even in 1991, his drunken stuper comments were not acceptable. Whether one is gay or straight or white or brown or christian or jew or etc….., NOONE has the right to demean any person!
While he has apologized (seemed genuine, given he realized that he was being an ass), he should step down as parliamentary secretary.
Interesting that my simple question about the PMO staff pay drew such a rapid defensive retort from a CPC troll…
My interest is simple. While the practice may have started with Trudeau, or Chretien, there is no doubt that the Harperites have brought the PMO to a size and level of influence previously unseen in Canadian Federal politics.
From the high-powered pigs at the trough aspect, I presume that these grunts are not exactly being paid slave labour wages to share their dubious wisdom in creating their new image of Canada. So, the spending to support the PMO must be escalating at a rate greater than inflation.
So, if we truly want to return the power to our ELECTED representatives, perhaps it is time for a committee, or even the auditor general, to make it public how public funds are being used to support a gang of unelected people in running our country. A year by year mention would be quite informative I am sure.
If, every year these unelected individuals – from ANY party – are growing in numbers, and their pay rate is also increasing, then it is time that this fact be made public.
It is already being taken very seriously in private business. Members of the Boards and even CEO’s are under increasing pressure to declare their “compensation for time” publicly. Yet, our “government” is not held to the same standard – even though is it PUBLIC MONEY being used and deserve public scrutiny.
It seems that the CPC have investigated and taken advantage of every opportunity to get public money to support their agendas. Why is there no mechanism to make these spending increases PUBLIC?
While the individual numbers may be relative small, I am quite sure that taken in sum, the total must be remarkable.
Also, my assumption is that individual MP’s are restricted in the number of support staff and advisers they may hire and pay to support their representation. Perhaps this grows as the MP moves up the hog-trough ladder. I do not know the details, but it sounds reasonable.
So, does the PM – or leader of the opposition – have complete carte blanche to spend OUR MONEY on toadies for his personal benefit or agenda? Is it not logical to set a fixed number or budget amount for the PMO to avoid abuse of the taxpayer’s money? Like, maybe at a level 3/4 the present level to be generous. Then, if the ruling party wanted to exceed this number, it would have to go through the same level of scrutiny as increases to Member’s pay – and we all know how well received pay raised for these guys is! (deserved or not)
After all, we have all those folks we voted for, are paying for, and who are supposed to be representing us, and certainly some of them must have skills that could be used by the PMO.
Please note, this should also apply to the Office of the Leader of the Opposition as well. I would be VERY interested to know the different budget allocation between these two – particularly in light of a minority government.
I would also like to know the difference in PMO spending between Chretien, Martin and Harpo.
To me, the abuse of public funds is akin to the abuse of power that is landing several CEO’s in the kalaboose. Consider our own Conrad Black. Did someone say “Skilling”?
Private Member’s bill anyone?
If there is a link where I can get these numbers, please let me know.
By Mary on the Prairie on 04.03.08 4:17 pm
Is that you again Leasa?
if the PC’s are so bad how have they managed a minority government for this long? Can’t the liberals and ndp agree to boot them out? It’s not as if they have all the seats in the house. How has anything been passed. It would seem to me they’re doing something right. I’ve always voted PC but I’m actually open to change if there was a good reason or convincing argument to do so. I’m listening so please tell me why I should vote Liberal or NDP.
Anyone?
Mr. Turner?
I think its time for an election,Harper is turning our country into his little dictatorship.He operates above the law and uses our tax dollars not for the good of the country but for his own personal quest for power! It should not and can not be tolerated!
Watch Dion huff and puff and wimper away,like the budget. Garth if the liberals believed what they said they would have more backbone.
It has to go come back from somewhere before third reading. My guess would be Finance (5 CPC v 7 Opposition) although I’m not sure how that’s decided.
By Brian Dondo on 04.03.08 1:10 pm
Ok, thanks for that. I was just thinking that it could be held up for quite a while if it were the Citizenship and Immigration Committee.
Wouldn’t that be a hoot.
The B’s are homosexual faggots with dirt in their fingernails that transmit diseases”?
………………………………..
What kind of diseases are there in the dirt under homosexual’s fingernails?
Why would anybody think or say this ..??!!
wish I knew the rules better. not really, but if I did I’d cook up some way to steer it to Justice or Procedures or one of the other gridlocks for an opinion about something so if it was needed there’d be a way to stop it dead in its tracks.
just for the hell of it.
Guess my need for a less geekly hobby is showing.
Andrew M,
your neo-Republicans have stayed in power for two years for the same reason that the Liberals stayed in power for thirteen: lack of a viable alternative.
But there is a difference: it won’t take the LPC thirteen years to get its act together, and it certainly won’t take the CPC that long become revolting.
Take whatever comfort you can in that, troll.
Wow, was this MP one of the ‘Party Animals’ in the Wall – Uncle Tom private party back 15 years ago? Was she blinded by the racist and prejudiced remarks her brethern used in their infamous video?
Hope she recovers from that party of animals.
We are Canadians – Not Robots.
YouTube did quite a presentation of Uncle Tom and Uncle Wall, our precious leaders. Go Figure.
That’s for sure. Hmmm 13 years of Liberal Rule? Where were the Lyin Brian Conservatives?
17 Years of NDP rule in SK? Where were the Conservatives all those years?
They are hungry for power, and they finally tricked enough voters. May God Bless America, and May God Bless Taxpayers.
I agree with Herb from Ontario.
What hatred the Conservatives have for ordinary Canadians and ordinary Homosexuals, Indians and Metis people, Ukrainians and other non-compliance groups. The Cons are clearly promoting hatred and now, they are sorry they got caught on tape. Darn, Shit happens.
Go figure. I lived through the Cons Era of Grant Devine and Lyin’ Brian and his brown envelopes full of money he didn’t earn or claim.
What’s next? Please inform me?
Conservatives need to educate themselves relating to ‘genes’
Thirteen Years? Why was this overlooked by the Conservatives? Isn’t this a desperate act to gain power and pretend you ‘are now a somebody?’
Why, I wonder, did the voters not buy the Conservative plan and then then, thirteen or fourteen years later; they decided to induct the Cons into the ‘Hall of Fame’ or ‘The Hall of Shame?’
Please, if anyone has an opinion and/or suggestion, I’d be interested. I was once a Conservative from Saskatchewan in the Devine/Lyin’ Brian Era. What color was Lyin’ Brian’s envelopes full of money? Were they white or brown. Brown is my favorite earth color. Just wondering!
Thanks very much for the opportunity to have an open debate about why a person should switch from Con to Lib. It’s too bad there wasn’t one valid reason other than the typical “we’re not the PC”. When will the Liberals actually have a leader that will say what their party plan is. I’m ripe for a change in Party but need some reason for change other than change itself. Maybe I’ll just start casting an empty ballot.
Anyone who missed Garth’s speech yesterday (like me) and is interested can catch it at http://parlvu.parl.gc.ca/parlvuen%2Dca/Guide.aspx?viewmode=4&categoryid=-1¤tdate=2008-04-3&languagecode=12298&eventid=5974
Garth starts at the 49:00 mark. Del Mastro’s non-sequitor response on behalf of the Government is at 1:09, and shows why these goons have to go. He does call Garth the “Halton Hawk”, however, which is not a bad tag to wear.
In response to my previous post:
Mr. Crawford has assured methat he did not mean to imply that I should stop corresponding with my M.P.
Mr. Crawford has assured me that all constituents regardless of their politics are worthy of his time.
I apologize to him for implying differently.
He does call Garth the “Halton Hawk”,
By Herb on 04.04.08 11:41 am
The Halton Hawks? Do they wear colors?
To the CPC, Garth is more like Odin’s Wrath. That’s a biker gang too.
http://www.snopes.com/computer/virus/mailserver.asp
By Charles Oxley on 04.03.08 12:55 pm
Charles, another answer in response to this (yet another) variation of PS worms and virus’ (viri?)…
BUY A MAC!
Geo
Hi Garth!
Do you think these changes to Canada’s immigration laws are related to
The Canada-Israel Public Security Agreement ?
http://www.globalresearch.ca/index.php?context=va&aid=8530
Thanks.
Dearest Leasa, I love you very much, however, I would like you to take care of other desperate threads needs as well. Looks like there may be some desperation and depression setting-in on the ‘Hill’. Is there anything you can do to assist them with their needs?
I love you Leasa, no cheating though; I trust you will honor my wishes.