The Fiction:
“And you know, let me just say this. I, you know, I have met many times with Mr. Duceppe. I have listened many times to Mr. Duceppe and his party. We have in fact responded through policy to requests that Mr. Duceppe and his party have made, but as prime minister I have never put myself in a position where I would be beholden to the Bloc Quebecois for the governing of the country. And I don’t think ifeverybody sits back, that any prime minister or potential prime minister in any party would want to be in that situation. I just think that it is not good for the country, I think it is very, very risky for the government in power.” — Stephen Harper, December 4, 2008
The Fact:
134 comments ↓
Harper is the biggest hypocrit in the country.
Why can’t I find my MPs contact info?
Where are you Lisa?
Garth–you got turfed in the last election, and enough of the remaining separatist-sympathizing Lieberals will get dumped in the next election for the Conservatives to get a majority. Time for you to focus on your sky-is-falling economic BS. Your political career is over.
What a jerk. We HAVE to roll up our PR campaign… that’s how he gets away with it every time – more money for PR. It’s not like the Canadian people support him. He only scored 38% of the people who actually voted – much less than 38% of the entire population!
In light of recent events and attitudes, the real title should be “Deceiver in Chief”
Did Harper fail all of his civics courses?
No comment?!?
WAKE UP CANADA!!!
…I have never put myself in a position where I would be beholden to the Bloc Quebecois for the governing of the country…
Well, except on September 9, 2004.
Does this guy think we’re idiots?
The only words I can use to describe him would have CSIS on my back.
Stevee Boy,
You should resign for Canada.
Get out Know
Garth
Give it up – it’s NOT Harper vs Turner
That battle is over & long lost
You are NO LONGER in Parliament
Guide your readers from the perspective of the BEST NON PARTISAN solution for Canada – drive a firestorm to rid the country of the SEPARATISTS – throw Quebec out!
Politics is like business – the money calls the shots – taxes into escrow – make them think & act responsibly.
Use your experience & gray matter
Read the moronic comments that your articles encourage and write something that will motivate voters to do something of value….
or Harper was right to toss you out….
Great plan. Get rid of 25% of the population and achieve Second World status. Good thinking, cowboy. — Garth
No comment?!?
WAKE UP CANADA!!!
By dotava on 12.04.08 6:09 pm
CBC-Ekos poll says 44% support for Cons?
That confirms it to me – we deserve the dysfunctional, dumb-ass government we got. My opinion of our elected officials, and fellow citizens, is at an all time low.
Garth, the Liberals hate Harper so much that you become irrational and formed that Coalition.
Ekos just out Con 44, Lib 24, …
http://www.cbc.ca/canada/story/2008/12/04/parliament-poll.html
So Jim Travers has a great column today about the complete ignorance of most Canadians on the structure of our democracy.
http://www.thestar.com/comment/article/548083
It is true that a majority of voters exercise their vote based on who is leading a political party that conforms to their views. But no where on the ballot is the name of any party leader as Prime Minister – elect me.
What has escaped Canadians is we vote for a representative for our riding to do the business of the people. They are expected to work on Committees, improve legislation, pass bills and represent their constituents in Ottawa and at home. While voters have created three minority governments in a row – this was different.
I know exactly when this started in the House with a comment from the Prime Minister on a young well versed MP and his family ties to the Air India terrorism attack – oh so long ago in February of 2007. Forget the guy was eight years old at the time and the media inference was about his father-in-law that was disproved. It unleashed a new kind of PM to the House of Commons and encouraged partisan attacks from everywhere in the House.
And it just got worse from there.
Fast forward to the drama that has unfolded for the past week – who is to blame? Everyone. But most of all a Prime Minister who relies on partisan attacks over even statesmanship at a time of economic crisis.
Garth,
This is off topic, but a few posts between this:
By Elisabeth on 12.04.08 4:33 am
and
By Dr Mike from Rodney on 12.04.08 7:06 am
that were present this morning (a couple of mine and this fellow By Joseph on 12.04.08 6:18 am) have since vanished from this thread:
http://www.garth.ca/weblog/2008/12/03/saving-canada/#comments
I hadn’t refreshed my browser until just now, but when I did, poof! Nothing inflammatory in them. Call in the tech guy?
http://www.acreativerevolution.ca/
To the coalition: Keep meeting.
Submitted by Dr.Frink on December 4, 2008 – 2:20pm.
Reposted in full from pogge. because I believe this bears repeating over and over. We haven’t lost yet. This a definitely a setback, but it’s only one batte.
Keep meeting
[Promoted from a comment by Eric Finley to the last post. I'm
taking his preamble to mean he has no problem with this. I'm still
mulling this over myself but certainly this would demonstrate that
opposition to Stephen Harper and to the events of the last week isn't
just some fleeting, momentary frustration. And it would demonstrate
that objection to today's decision is based on both serious concern for
our democracy and for the urgency of the occasion. So, for your
consideration, consider this to be a guest post. -p]
Keep meeting.
To the coalition: Keep meeting.
Parliament has been prorogued. So you’re not meeting in an official capacity. But nonetheless meet as if you were not prorogued.
Find a site. Pay for it yourselves, and be explicit about that.
You’re citizens meeting to speak. But in so doing, keep up the business
of Parliament. Debate. Draft bills. Hold (unofficial) committee
meetings. Vote… on memoranda of understanding.
Show the country, its citizens, and its investors that while you do
not argue with the legality of the delay, you see no need to go on
vacation in this crucial economic time. Assume (without even explicitly
saying it) that in January when Parliament reconvenes, Harper will
fall, the coalition will form government, and the memoranda of
understanding and drafted bills will be dealt with, bang-bang-bang,
because you have already hashed this out.
Invite the Conservatives to join you. If you get some momentum, you
might get no few disgruntled members willing to bet that Harper’s fury
will not control their lives.
Let the Conservatives take an extended vactation. Shrink the
proposed vacation period instead, to mark the severity of the economic
need.
Make it plain that you do not dispute Her Excellency’s right to
consent to her nominal first minister’s request to prorogue, and that
you respect her for making a difficult decision in uncharted waters.
Open each session with a consistent, well-crafted adaptation of
protocol which is sufficiently distinct that it does not trespass upon
Parliament’s formal privileges… but that nonetheless shows clearly
that you do this out of the uttermost respect for the Queen, the
Governor General, and the Canadian people.
Repeat frequently that you’re just trying to get work done now, so
that things can happen fast when the doors unlock in January. It can’t
be trespass upon the privileges of government if its level of formality
is that of a caucus meeting.
Be completely transparent. Defeat the smoke-filled rooms meme. Heck, hold it in a bar, if you can find one big enough.
The media will come to you. I can think of no more efficient way to
stretch your advertising dollars than a bold, newsworthy stroke like
this.
If you do this, I will donate to the limit of my ability. I will
write letters to the editor praising your actions. I will take my four
children and go door to door. In Edmonton. In December.
Pass it on.
Never, Ever, sign on with the Bloq and give them the power of veto, simple, just say NO to Separatists
Garth, as Canadians have been saying today and will continue to say it louder and louder …take it to the people!!! The coalition is toast, especially in Ontario.
Yes, we in Ontario do object to the inclusion of the Bloc in the agreement. Paint it whatever way you like the last thing we needed now was a crisis of separation. The liberals brought this out and Ontario knows.
Garth, the liberals have ignited the battle again over separation in this country. That was the last thing we needed with this economic crisis! Ontario won’t support this coalition at all. Yes, the Bloc are involved with the coalition. Don’t kid yourself, Ontario is quite aware. Take this matter to the people with a general election and, based on today’s poll numbers, the conservative majority, based on votes from Ontario, will stabilize this country.
This coup attempt will only get more unpopular with the public with all the fingers pointing to the Liberals with the point loss reversing over the course of the next month. Layton said he will vote non-confidence at the first opportunity. Dion will be forced to support the government or lead the coalition into a very unpopular election. This will put Layton firmly in the position of official opposition.
I wonder if Jack was a political strategist at any time previous? Well done Jack, it`s in the bag unless the LPC actually come up with an accredited economic plan and really, what are the chances of that.
http://www.cbc.ca/canada/story/2008/12/04/parliament-poll.html
Support for Tories up
Thursday, December 4, 2008 | 5:11 PM ET
Conservatives received 44 per cent of respondents’ support, up from the 37.6 per cent just seven weeks ago.
Dion’s Liberals is down two percentage points from the election with 24 per cent of respondents’ support, New Democrats are down almost four percentage points at 14.5 per cent support.
================
At this rate the
LPC has already lost the next election and undoubtable opposition
leader status. Hella of a plan Jack, now drop replacing family with
daycare and you`re in as opposition leader at least.
http://www.garth.ca/weblog/2008/12/02/subprime-minister/#comment-
186778
btw A Canada wide rally for all opposed to the coalition they will be held at 8pm local time on January 25th 2009 at your local Wendy`s Weenies
The Liberal hatred of Harper has caused them into irrational coalition behaviour.
[
Garth, this is one of the lost posts I mentioned, but it fits in well with the current thread topic.]Joseph, I refer you first to this book:
Speaking Out Louder: Ideas That Work for Canadians by Jack Layton, released in September 2006, and this passage:
Layton did not write those words because of he possesses an extreme quality of prescience that allowed him to forsee this event 2 years ago, and how Harper would try to dismiss it the same way he tried to play down his desire to put Canadian military boots on the ground in Iraq. The fact is that there was intent.
Please don’t ever put that moron Dion in front of a camera again! That looked more like a Monty Python skit than a political speech.
Did Harper bully him into acting so stupid, or does it just come naturally?
No comment?!?
WAKE UP CANADA!!!
By dotava on 12.04.08 6:09 pm
CBC-Ekos poll says 44% support for Cons?
That confirms it to me – we deserve the dysfunctional, dumb-ass government we got. My opinion of our elected officials, and fellow citizens, is at an all time low.
By Tim N on 12.04.08 6:19 pm
I’m pretty close, if not already ready, to throw in the towel. There is no alternative here. The liberals are in utter shambles and no one will ever support an NDP government. Let there be a con majority, let Canada see <> what they will bring.
There are no longer any alternatives. Nothing left to fight for here. Maybe in 4 or 8 years time, when the liberals learn to stop stabbing each other in the back and go “oh. I guess we’re actually in the same team…” I might have some faith in this country again. Right now… I almost shutter to say this, but this is the Canadian bush regime.
I almost welcome the shit they are going to bring down on us. Make those Canadians see what they have brought, and will be bringing upon us all.
I’m very disheartened. Losing ones faith in your own country is not a pleasant feeling.
Breaking: New polls show huge Tory gains:
Ipsos: CPC 46, LPC 23, NDP 13, BQ 9, GPC 8
Ekos: CPC 44, LPC 24, NDP 15, BQ 9, GPC 8
Compas: 72% biz leaders see worse economy under Dion coalition
By Bonnie N BC on 12.04.08 6:44 pm
Just Mf/’n “sophistry” … Having absolutely no relevance to the unemployment crisis.
What a f@@king coward. The POS is running away from his date with destiny and humiliation. This looser is the most divisive national leader in our history. The Bloc look like patriots compared to this ayehole. What is coming next will be shocking. I expect a deluge of disinformation, half truths and outright lies. All funded by the taxpayers of course. Blasted across the airwaves 24/7. Democracy is dying in Canada right before our eyes. Excuse me while I go puke.
Mr.Turner your former leader Mr.Dion was against a coalition government with the NDP. Why you ask? He said that there is a big difference in the two platforms.So weeks later after the election suddenly the difference wasn’t that big. So what has changed hey Garth? Mr.Turner in the past you have said that you weren’t keen in having separatist in our federal parliament. Right? Correct me if I’m wrong here. Now Mr.Turner if aren’t happy having separatist in our parliament,then explain to me and to your readers how in the heck you can support a coalition government that would been supported by the very same separatist you dislike humm? Please I would like to know. Mr.Duceppe said that the coalition government supported by his party the Bloc would advance the cause of separation. Pauline Marois from the PQ party here in Quebec was also so strongly in favor of the Bloc in which she said that Quebec should leave this Country. Mr.Jacques Parizeau the former leader of the PQ also was strongly in favor the Bloc. Do you think that all these people has Canada at heart? Do you think that all these people want our great country that we call Canada to work? I mean do you people hate Mr.Harper so much that you would put the future of the country in peril? It is just amazing to me how the Liberals would want to put so much power in the bloc. When every federalist in Quebec try to diminish it’s power in Ottawa. But hey what do I know it’s just the future of the country I care so much about.
Square that with Harper’s use of the BQ 140 times to win votes in the Commons, then making Quebec “a nation”. Hypocrite. — Garth
For those partisan goons with no brains telling Garth he got kicked out – he didn’t lose his citizenship, he still has to pay taxes – he has every right to have his blog and voice an opinion.
I’m feeling so empty – I feel like my country is slipping away.
It is true that a majority of voters exercise their vote based on who is leading a political party that conforms to their views.
Bonnie N BC on 12.04.08 6:44 pm
Mostly true. Cdns do indeed elect their government by who is leading the Party. However they don`t vote for the leaders closest to their views for a couple of reasons. They know election promises mean nothing and it`s a sure bet even if elected it`s a disappointment so Cdns vote against the worst.
Most Cdns learn quickly not to hold unreasonable expectations such as electing a functional government from a `bash the opposition into losing` election into a broken system.
The system needs fixing by changing, not the politicians.
To the Coalition. Keep Meeting.
http://www.pogge.ca/archives/002160.shtml
Kiss Canada goodbye, any PM can shut down parliament at any time of his or her choosing…the precedent has been established. Unfortunate we do not have anyone in Ottawa who cares more about Canadians than they do about their own parties and power…but then again, who voted them in?
drive a firestorm to rid the country of the SEPARATISTS – throw Quebec out!
By Jaxsn on 12.04.08 6:18 pm
You have no idea how offensive your remarks are – your premise is un-Canadian, undemocratic.
Go to your Conservative blogs – I think they too would have a problem with such a destructive comment like that.
Yeah, its much better to put the power in the hands of corporations and unions; allow them to fund their party of choice.
By smwhite on 12.04.08 5:44 pm
What a crock, when you have a good platform people will give you a lot more than 1.95$. See Obama example.
When you have a pathetic platform that includes taxing people’s only source of heating, you get shit, like you deserve.
Liberals get yourselves an all inclusive platform that helps the whole country (instead of splitting it) and stop kissing the ass of the NDP and the bloc.
Square that with Harper’s use of the BQ 140 times to win votes in the Commons, then making Quebec “a nation”. Hypocrite. — Garth
Giving the Bloc a veto in a coalition Govt. is totally different, Canadians know it.
Ipsos: CPC 46, LPC 23, NDP 13, BQ 9, GPC 8
Ekos: CPC 44, LPC 24, NDP 15, BQ 9, GPC 8
I know it hurts Garth, but its true.
I loved the stunned look on Don Newman when he interviewed Ekos, in contr
Please provide a link to any evidence the BQ would have “a veto” in a coalition government of which they are not a part. — Garth
What is more disturbing is some of the phoney stories in the media.
I know for a fact Quebeckers are Not pleased.
We deserve the government we’ve got, a Banana Republic just like the U.S. is now.
HARPER is a flat out LIAR.
Ask ask any educated, sensible Canadian citizen…do you want a LIAR running the country?
Wake up people.
By koo koo coup on 12.04.08 7:26 pm
They do not know election promises mean nothing. How do you think Income trust investors lost 35 billion. They did because they trusted Mr. Harpers promise not to tax income trusts. Why they trusted this promise is interesting to say the least. We saw what the GST promise delivered. We saw what the universal daycare plan delivered, but for some reason over 2 million seniors fell for another campaign promise in 2006.
We all need to lower our expectations of government so we are not so easily disappointed.
What is it with this guy Harper.Just a few months back he went crying to Madame Jean that the house was dysfunctional.She dried his tears and said have an election.
Now today he’s back for an encore presentation of hiding behind her skirts and again she dries his tears.
Maybe the GG was afraid she might be seen courting the Bloc if she gave the coalition the nod.Afterall there was a link to the separtists just after she was given the job.
The rest of the country should be thanking the BLOC for foiling a Harper Majority last time out.Unless of course they are ReformCons. Since last spring this country has survived with about 12 Parliament sitting days.So who’s running the country?
Some great pics of Dear Leader at this link.
http://drdawgsblawg.blogspot.com/
By Bonnie N BC on 12.04.08 6:44 pm
Just Mf/’n “sophistry” … Having absolutely no relevance to the unemployment crisis.
By PYOTR PETROBITCH on 12.04.08 7:16 pm
Yes it does!
Sorry Pyotr – Recent history helps people understand how we got here. If you cannot explain to people how things went down as the unemployment crisis developed they cannot relate to the reaction by politicians.
A lot of people come here and never post but they do read.
It’s a frame of reference – my realization. I don’t get paid for the analysis. Do you?
“Square that with Harper’s use of the BQ 140 times to win votes in the Commons, then making Quebec “a nation”. Hypocrite. — Garth”
Why did the Liberals voted in favor of a “nation” humm Garth? Or I’m I wrong?
The last I looked Mr.Turner the people voted in a minority government. Do you want to take away the right to vote from the Bloc? The liberals went threw an election saying that they would not enter in a coalition government with the NDP let alone being supported by the Bloc. If the Liberals didn’t like the economic update of last week all they had to do was let it go to committee where the opposition is in control. If that would not be enough we have something called the senate where the Liberals who have a majority they could have voted it down humm. You know Mr.Turner the same way the senate is doing with the senate reform humm!
The people of this country did not vote for a coalition government. In other democracy where they have coalition governments they run on that promise during the election campaign. The people of those countries know what to expect,because they would have voted for it.Not saying no during the election and then say yes weeks later after the election. Common Mr.Turner give me a break. Funny Mr.Turner you haven’t answered my other question’s about the Bloc. Talk about being Hypocrite! But I digress!
I respect Mr Harper very much. I am glad you changed the title of this post. If you hear Dion and Layton spewing out there venom it makes Harper look all the more like a gentleman. I wonder how he puts up with all the bs and maintains composure.
“Lies, damned lies, and statistics” is part of a phrase attributed to Benjamin Disraeli and popularised in the United States by Mark Twain: “There are three kinds of lies: lies, damned lies, and statistics.” The statement refers to the persuasive power of numbers, the use of statistics to bolster weak arguments, and the tendency of people to disparage statistics that do not support their positions.
Harper the Hypocrite critizes other parties for negotiating with the Bloc when he, himself, tried the very same thing in 04. Harper caved to the Bloc by declaring the Quebecois a nation and now he is reaping the results—he has lost all support he had in Quebec and now will never get his coveted majority.
This man thinks he is omnipotent—lets prove him wrong.
Gary V respects Mr. Harper–don’t know why. Harper has lied, deceived, flipped-flopped, fudged, denied, delayed, decried, sputtered, etc. I don’t see any redeeming qualities in this man.
Question?
Why is it that we have a party in power that originally started on a grass roots with Alberta separation?
Didn’t the Reform party want to separate Alberta from Canada?
We saw what the universal daycare plan delivered,
By Marc on 12.04.08 8:01 pm
Here’s your universal daycare. You may find this too right wing though.
Essentially it is this: pay for your own kids and I’ll pay for mine. And if you can’t afford kids, don’t have any or get a second job, or go back to school and learn something useful. How’s that for simplicity.
Stephen Harper is not your daddy. He doesn’t owe you ‘universal’ anything.
Turner,
YOU LOST THE ELECTION and this non-confidence bid. Now, go crawl back under your rock. The LPC is completely Bankrupt!
Did I invite you here? — Garth
Why is it that we have a party in power that originally started on a grass roots with Alberta separation?
By Dee on 12.04.08 8:34 pm
This is the case because the Liberal party has decided to go so far to the left as to become the NDP.
The Liberal party has also decided to split the country in 2 and basically use the west to pay for the failed policies of the east while giving no voice, and even looking down on the first.
Hope that clears it up for you. I am sure that you wouldn’t vote for the Liberals either if all they did was shit on you while at the same time they emptied your pockets.
Harper Conservative MPs are heavily linked to the Republican’s. Harper’s “Nourishing Mother”, the Council for National Policy (CNP) are the most powerful donors to the extreme, socially conservative right-wing activists in the U.S. spreading anti-choice, anti-same sex marriage, anti-environment messages through surrogates, who have either made overt forays into Canadian politics or cultivated ties with the Conservative Party of Canada, providing it with financial, strategic and rhetorical support.
If you have the stomach for it, read about the nearly unseen network that will strong-arm and take Canada apart. This is how:
(PDF)
http://dawn.thot.net/harperstiestousa/american_right_report.pdf
“The disclosure of this social conservative network is important because such links are likely to become stronger in the future.”
They “seek to use property rights as a basis to open access to federal lands and resources for business interests, curtail the reach of legislation to protect endangered species and the environment and prevent further government regulation. It
is part of a complex of organizations and law firms in the United States that promote the radical right-wing “Constitution-in-Exile” movement, which seeks to dramatically curtail [our] ability to regulate in all areas of society, especially the environment and the workplace.”
“Canadians should remain vigilant lest social conservatives already supported by a vast network of American organizations turn their influence into government power.”
Is it already too late? They’ll be spending lots of money on targeting Canadians with apathy-creating misinformation and confusion for the next two months. You can at least send the above link to friends and family so they will understand what’s happening.
OH! Look, over there! A shiny thing called a FACT!
Peter Van Loan rises (with the help of his butt hugging Whoopee cushion) and says ‘It’s the Liberal’s fault! The Conservative Caucus rises and screams silly things, applauds, and then sits down like autonotoms nodding their widdle heads.
Tune back in January 26 for the next round of Kindergarten Commons. Brought to you by YOU (Suckers)!
Psssssssst! Somebody scan the ads from the American Big Box stores for sales on video cameras. Might I suggest Digital, High Definition, Widescreen format, and please, a decent Lavalier Mic for sound as well?
What a wonderful Xmas present for Dion’s PR people.
Going back to watch intelligent TV with Jon Stewart while he aires exit interview of Dubya!
By Tim N on 12.04.08 6:19 pm
Tim – if 50% + 1 Canadian choose PM – that will be my PM too (regardless if I vote for him or not). At the moment we do not have that and I prefer Mr. Dion (regardless that I didn’t vote for him) he is much better option than one we unfortunately have.
During the years 1936-38, the National Socialist Party of Germany was seeking was whereby they might justify their military and social actions. Among other things, Adolph Hitler wanted possession of Czechoslovakia, Austria, and Poland; and he wanted to annihilate the Jewish race. Joseph Goebells was assigned the responsibility of accomplishing these tasks, and that of creating good “reasons” for doing so. It was then that Goebells adopted the phrase: Tell a Lie That is Big Enough, and Repeat it Often Enough, and the Whole World Will Believe It. He assumed the world would not be gullible enough to believe “little lies,” but the bigger the lie, the more likely it is that people would eventually accept it as true. By the use of misinformation, negative propaganda, movies, and various dramatic presentations, the Nazi Minister of Propaganda was successful beyond the generation’s realization.
http://swsbs.edu/pages/writings/Garner/lie.html
Thank you,Mr. Dion for getting Mr.Harper to admit today that he will need to work with the opposition to regain the confidence of the Canadian people.
Mr. Harper is the one who has backed away from his fiscal update, backed away from attacking civil servants, backed away from funding political parties, backed away from fulfilling his responsibilities to govern.
Any more backing up and Harper will be over the cliff.
DO YOU REALLY WANT THE FACTS GARTH? Seems you have a very short memory. I’ll help you out…
Let me say first of all, if we ever catch the CPC stealing tens of millions of dollars of tax payers money, I’ll vote to pay the Bloc to bring them down. Prime Minister Martin actually ignored a non-confidence vote of parliament. Then in a desperate act, he let the NDP add $4 billion dollars in extra spending to the budget for their support.
The Bloc over the last 15 or 20 years have often voted on the government’s side or against the government. I recall every single time they voted with the CPC, Liberals went ballistic, screaming ‘YOUR IN BED WITH THE SEPARATISTS!’
Mr. Harper at no time had a formal written agreement with the separatist Bloc to govern this country and shame on anyone who says he did. He did cooperate with them, to try and get power long enough to bring that corrupt government down to bring us to an election.
Now, the Liberals actually feel that Prime Minister Harper should be sorry for not liking separatists. Separatists, the same party whose members have urinated and burned Canadian flags, are suddenly ‘cool guys’ who can have the legal binding power to veto important legislation for all of Canada.
Prime Minister Harper and the CPC seems to be the only people who know the difference between a Quebec Separatist and a Quebec Nationalist.
Shame on any media who tries to stir things up by indicating anything different.
Leasa
If you spin much more you will screw into the earth. — Garth
By Ted on 12.04.08 6:22 pm
I am not Liberal but I don’t like him either. I belong to 62% of Canadians who didn’t vote for Conservative Party.
Are you happy now?
At least when the election comes, there will be a clear choice – Conservatives vs a Coalition. My bet is that Conservatives will win a majority. All because of the opportunism of the opposition to gather together in a truly bizarre aliance. The coalition was a bad, bad idea. Even the Green party – that had zero elected MPs – were salivating at a Senate seat if they provided moral support. Truly sad and undemocratic.
Please provide a link to any evidence the BQ would have “a veto” in a coalition government of which they are not a part. — Garth
————————–
To me Garth this is the biggest problem with the media in this country. With all the live on air media going why is it that Harper and his Conservative cabinet members are not called out on their blatant outright lies? Why is it Duffy , Newman, Oliver, Fife and on and on start calling him out on this BS and now starting a Unity crisis all over again. God!!!!!@%#$$%^$%^$%%^$#@#!@
The really sad fact is , and I am sure Garth has this all figured himself, is that Harper has no intention of making Parliament work when it comes back in 7 weeks. Harper wants and election while Stephen Dion is still the leader of the Liberals. He will never stop being in election mode and spew out the hate this man has for every one.
Time Garth to replace Dion pronto and get one of the Leader Candidates in there as leader to lead the Libs into yet another Harper created election just after the return of Parliament in January. Just listening to Baird , Moore , Harper and some of the other Cons convince me that this is the game plan now. “Get another election in before they dump Dion”
I almost welcome the shit they are going to bring down on us. Make those Canadians see what they have brought, and will be bringing upon us all.
I’m very disheartened. Losing ones faith in your own country is not a pleasant feeling.
By SJ on 12.04.08 7:13 pm
————————
Unfortunately I would have to agree with SJ, Harper is never going to quit until he gets that majority. Election mode, spewing hate, elections every year until he finally gets a majority. Going to be pretty hard with out Quebec though.
Maybe that is what is going to take to smarten up all the idiots out there that think that piece of crap of a man is going to destroy this country. Yes the ‘HIDDEN AGENDA’ man. Me I am retired and on pension. God help anyone under 40 in this country.
It is rather frightening the way the Conservatives are trying to make the Canadian system like the American system. What I have seen over the past week is that a large proportion of Canadian know nothing about our political system and are ready to support a dictatorship of a minority.
If you look at some of the comments here and on other boards it is becoming apparent that Harper relies on support from those people who are opposed to any kind of a democratic system.
Never fear my friends. We live to fight another day!
Well if anything the Liberal Party leadership is now in the bag for Michael. Bob Rae looks like the jackass every Ontarian remembers him as.
Really Garth, as a long time Liberal supporter Dion just has to take the walk on the plank. Where was the DVD of his response, late and badly produced. As longs as he’s around he’s the pinata for the Cons, replace him and they have nothing.
Oh yeah BTW Conservative majority criers, kiss Quebec goodbye next election, all Liberals and Bloc next time around.
Way to Steve! You’re a master strategist alright.
It’s a really depressing feeling, when you turn on the tv, and you see how the Americans have come together around Obama, and then you turn you see our political landscape. Harper, a egomaniac who actually HATES his opposition (not just disagrees, but hates), and Dion on the other, overstaying his welcome and putting the Liberals in a dismal position.
I’m terrified of what Harper could do with a majority.
Leasa admits Harper “co-operated” with the Bloc, but only to get rid of Martin.
Leasa, How is the Harper ‘co-operation” with the Bloc any different than the current Liberal/NDP co-operation with the Bloc.
Once again you have stated the obvious. Harper says one thing and does another. He is flip-flopping in the wind.
If you’re feeling angry and depressed about what happened to-day and can’t quite put your finger on the reason why, Aaron Wherry provides the focus at
http://blog.macleans.ca/2008/12/04/the-commons-a-cold-and-miserable-day/#more-22242
Square that with Harper’s use of the BQ 140 times to win votes in the Commons, then making Quebec “a nation”. Hypocrite. — Garth
Dion, Layton and Duceppe are hypocrites and liars to boot. Both Dion and Layton stated they would not form a coalition with each other during the election. So what they do right after the election and the financial update which was going to take away their party subsidies. IN fact it appears this was planned just days after the parliament started sitting. Layton and Douceppe conspired form the beginning and they both sucked in the Liberals.
Yes you are right Douceppe and the Bloc supported the Conservatives. The big difference that you, the Liberals and Douceopoe failed to mention that Douceppe said he would support the government on a case by case basis. If it is good for Quebec he will support the government. If it doesn’t he won’t. With this Coalition he will support all confidence motions regardless what is presented.
There is not one leader in parliament who’s are not guilty of either trying to keep power or obtain power.
I am sure that you wouldn’t vote for the Liberals either if all they did was shit on you while at the same time they emptied your pockets.
BY LOONIELEFTWINGERS ON 12.04.08 8:56 PM
You mean like what the Conservatives are doing to Quebec right now? And ON? Doesn’t ON & Quebec pay for the RCMP in the Western provinces? Why doesn’t Alberta have their own provincial police force?
Even Osama bin Laden’s videos looked more professional than Dion’s” …
- Former Chretien communications czar Peter Donolo
Garth … I trust you fully support Liberal MP Jim Karygiannis’ public revelations that there is opposition to Dion’s continued leadership of the Liberal party.
Ignatieff denounced Karygiannis for his independent statements outside the Liberal caucus meeting today.
Will you publicly declare your support for Karygiannis …???
You mean like what the Conservatives are doing to Quebec right now? And ON? Doesn’t ON & Quebec pay for the RCMP in the Western provinces? Why doesn’t Alberta have their own provincial police force?
By Dee on 12.04.08 10:02 pm
Yes, Quebec pays for Alberta. Thank God Quebec is there to help Alberta out. What a twit.
Also, Quebec has obtained much more under Harper than they deserved as previously mentioned by the host of this site so I doubt that they feel ‘screwed’. Of course when your a bloc member it is your job to show constant indignation so that idiots in the ROC hand you more money.
The ruling class needs to be taught a lesson. Someone please start a Duceppe for PM site.
To the Coalition — Ignore the polls. They are irrelevant. Try to talk Bob Rae into taking over as interim leader. You have the votes. Take Harper down. His party will never forgive him. You have nothing to lose, either GG invites the Coalition to govern (which I now doubt) or there is an election. Harper has probably engineered all this thinking he can get a majority out of it. Perhaps people are getting tired of his partisan games. Time to fish or cut bait. Lets find out.
Looks like what is good for the goose is good for the gander!!!
From: Calgary Grit’s blog
What If History
Martin hangs on as PM, shuts Parliament
THE CANADIAN PRESS
November 24th, 2005
OTTAWA – Prime Minister Paul Martin has won a stay of political execution – at least until February.
Martin convinced Gov. Gen. Michaelle Jean to suspend Parliament on Thursday, delaying a non-confidence vote scheduled for Monday that would have brought down his beleaguered minority Liberal government.
The House of Commons has gone dark until February 1st, when Martin will return and present a throne speech. He is expected to request an election the next day, fulfilling his promise to call an election after Judge Gomery reports.
“Let me be perfectly clear – this government is fundamentally committed to fulfilling it’s promise to hold an election after Judge Gomery does his work. That is our number one priority, along with with health care and the economy” the prime minister said outside the front door of Rideau Hall.
The decision also sets up the prospect of a fierce battle with the opposition coalition for public support over the coming weeks.
Jean agreed to Martin’s unprecedented request after a face-to-face meeting at the vice-regal residence that lasted more than two hours.
The decision pulls the teetering minority Liberal government back from the brink, at least for the moment.
“We must realize the enormity of what has happened here today,” said Conservative leader Stephen Harper, standing in the foyer of the Commons. “For the first time in the history of Canada, the prime minister of Canada is running away from the Parliament of Canada.”
Harper had asked Jean to refuse to prorogue, arguing that Martin no longer enjoys the confidence of the House of Commons.
A petition signed by all opposition MPs went to the Governor General on Thursday morning stating that “a majority of Members of Parliament . . . believe that this government has lost the confidence of the house.”
The reaction has been fierce. Conservatives have planned rallies across this country to protest Jean’s decision to prorogue. In Alberta, talk shows were swamped with irate callers angry over the Prime Minister’s decision to “run away and hide”.
Liberals, meanwhile, will be holding counter-rallies to support the prorogation decision. “I believe in clarity – and the precedence is clear” said Environment Minister Stephane Dion. “The governor general must always accept the prime minister’s advice to prorogue and that is what she did today.”
The “coalition of the idiots” has just boosted support in Ontario for the CPC to 44%. If you thought our great PM was tough before you ain’t seen nothing yet baby!
Liberals have proved yet again their stupidity and whoreism. Well done GG and PM!
By Paul B on 12.04.08 9:11 pm
I don’t agree and it’s not me
He’s a coward.
He speaks fear to the nation
HARPER is a flat out LIAR.
Ask ask any educated, sensible Canadian citizen…do you want a LIAR running the country?
Wake up people.
By Glen on 12.04.08 8:00 pm
What a dumb statement – do you live under a rock Glen? Please name me one (and only one) politician that has never lied or stretched the truth for political gains.
Educated, sensible Canadian citizens learned this lesson a long time ago and why their vote is based more on a party’s platform and their proposed policies than the leader himself. Heck, you have enough friends on here that have reminded us many times over the last few days “we do not elect PM’s”
Nonetheless, let’s continue down this path and say that there are others who live under rocks and are equally horrified to find out their party’s leader lied. Typically, one would then look to the next party that best shares their view on dealing with economy, etc.. For most Cons, this probably means the Liberals.
But it is not so simple anymore is it? The Liberal party is not exactly what it used to be. Regardless of one’s view of the man, the choice is probably clearer today than it was only 2 weeks ago for anyone undecided or “on the fence”.
Based on some of the other dumb comments I have read on here I have come to believe it is probably the deep hatred for Harper alone that has led to any support of this coalition. A coalition led by an individual that is not wanted by his party and would inevitably embarrass Canada on the world stage. Some folks actually believe these 3 party leaders would set aside their unique differences and work in the best interest of the country. These individuals do not live under a rock, they live on a different planet to believe that crap!
Heck, remove the Bloc and throw in the Communist party and you will still find support of the coalition – anything to get rid of Harper right?
Sound educated, sensible? I think not.
Your right on one thing – “WAKE UP PEOPLE”. The latest polls suggest they are starting to.
‘Yes, Quebec pays for Alberta. Thank God Quebec is there to help Alberta out. What a twit.’
I included ON too. You must be an Albertan. Quite a few Albertans don’t know how to read English very well. Too bad for you Harper cut funding to the Literacy programs.
It seems one has to go outside Canada to get some objective reporting. Thanks Harper for making us look like a 3rd world country.
http://www.nytimes.com/2008/12/05/world/americas/05canada.html?_r=1&hp
Looks like what is good for the goose is good for the gander!!!
From: Calgary Grit’s blog
What If History
BY BONNIE L 12.04.08 10:30 PM
Hi Bonnie L,
Too bad that didn’t happen.
Oh well. I guess Calgary Grit was just having a fantasy dream. It would have been interesting though!
John G: And what of the Quebec polls. Harper has given the Bloc huge gains in popularity and Steve knows his majority is lost without Quebec.
Talk about cutting off your nose to spite your face.
He’s lost it.
Even before his big screwup with the economic statement Harper was toast. There are too many eyes on the prize now. John Baird, Prentice, and even Tony Clement is said to have aspirations for the top job.
Steve is only worth 37 -38 percent of the vote. He will never achieve a majority. Steve knows it , we know it , and the backroom thugs who run the conservative party sure as heck know it.
They need a more likeable person like Jim Prentice.
You Liberal losers are so pathetic.
Lib’rals are Red,
Conserv’tives Blue,
Lib’rals are Dead,
Whatever they do.
Leasa
If you spin much more you will screw into the earth. — Garth
By Leasa on 12.04.08 9:04 pm
Hey Garth, you missed the mark on that one. Leasa can’t stop blabbing long enough to screw anything!
Leasa admits Harper “co-operated” with the Bloc, but only to get rid of Martin.
Leasa, How is the Harper ‘co-operation” with the Bloc any different than the current Liberal/NDP co-operation with the Bloc.
Once again you have stated the obvious. Harper says one thing and does another. He is flip-flopping in the wind.
By Judy on 12.04.08 9:48 pm
I’m glad you asked; even though I think I explained it quite well. Harper did not have a legal agreement, signed that would allow the block to veto important legislation. Harper only had an agreement with the Bloc to take enough power to call an election. This was because Martin ignored a non-confidence vote in the HoC. This was because the Liberal Party was found to have stolen tens of millions of tax payer’s dollars. Like I said, if the CPC was found to do such a deplorable thing, I’d vote to pay the Bloc to bring them down.
Duceppe and Parizeau were both bragging that the deal they ‘made’ Dion sign would make separatists smile. Duceppe bragged that ‘all important legislation would have to pass through him’.
Harper handled this exactly right and the polls show it.
L
If you spin much more you will screw into the earth. — Garth
Garth, what can I say…I’m good. As a matter of fact, you’d take me out and buy me dinner if I spun for you. But, you love me anyway…I’m fun!
L
By Randy on 12.04.08 9:19 pm
Randy, if they ‘dump’ Dion before his agreed time, do you not realize what a demoralizing, humiliating, cold hearted, nasty thing that would be? They would ruin the man if they did that to him. But, then again, I’ve seen liberals do worse. L
Hi Garth,
Thanks for keeping us infored as you see things.
I don’t think Harper is helping very much at all. He seems incapable of helping anyone but himself and his USA corporate friends that feed him with cash. I’m starting to really wonder if there will be much left of our Canadian experiment in the not to distant future???
(Has anyone seen the GG to make sure see lived through the two hour meeting with Harper?)
long enough to screw anything!
By Truth B Told on 12.04.08 11:42 pm
Oh Truth…what a dirty mind! Now go stand in the corner and come out when you are sorry. L
Lib’rals are Red,
Conserv’tives Blue,
Lib’rals are Dead,
Whatever they do.
By HARRY S on 12.04.08 11:34 pm
Jack n Gille
Went up the hill
To fetch a little Dion
Jack fell down
Broke his crown
Gille & Dion came tumbling after.
and the coalition died. ha ha ha
Keep your day job at the PMO. — Garth
Illegitimate government is what Bob Rae called this today. And someday, ’cause Harper CAN’T kill democracy, someone like the Bard of the North, or many others, WILL unite the left and take this country back. Just like Obama did. With or without public funding. Ideas ARE more important than money. The people will see what lies and cowardice breed. The goons have whipped up the people like a Palin rally, disgraceful, unworthy…ah, whatever. I have hope in the truth. Kumbaya, goons.
Judy, the days of sucking up to Quebec are hopefully over. I for one am sick and tired of Quebec politicians threatening Canada. Glad to see the PM put the country first.
Harper made the Quebec people into “a nation.” Explain that giant sucking sound. — Garth
I included ON too. You must be an Albertan. Quite a few Albertans don’t know how to read English very well. Too bad for you Harper cut funding to the Literacy programs.
Let’s spend the saved money teaching you to make a point that is not completely retarded, like implying that Alberta should be thankful to Ontario and Quebec for the RCMP. I am sure that Alberta could easily afford it’s own provincial police once it cuts you leeches off it’s payroll.
You mean like what the Conservatives are doing to Quebec right now? And ON? Doesn’t ON & Quebec pay for the RCMP in the Western provinces? Why doesn’t Alberta have their own provincial police force?
By Dee on 12.04.08 10:02 pm
After years away from Alberta, I was surprised to learn they now have County Sheriffs as well as their original Game Wardens. I also learned some years ago that the oldest Police Force in Canada is the Royal Newfoundland Constabulary followed by the Ontario Game Wardens!
Now, there is no over riding reason for the Western Provinces to have their own police forces as long as they want to hire the RCMP to patrol and enforce the Provincial Laws as well as the Federal Criminal Code since the cost per capita is significantly higher to invest in a training school, and the other necessary infrastructure such as a crime lab, morgue, consumable stores and issuing personnel, purchasing especially vehicles and their maintainence and associated staffs. Running an efficient well equipped force is not cheap, ask Julian Fantino now that they are also operating airplanes and leasing helicopters! The economy of scale achieved by using the RCMP under contract including the smaller towns and villages makes much sense and saves cents!
Oh Truth…what a dirty mind! Now go stand in the corner and come out when you are sorry. L
By Leasa on 12.04.08 11:53 pm
Who me, never! Do you type those things while you are nacked, now I am upset that I can’t afford a web cam!
Really, the GG blew it, or didn’t get it. How can she prorogue parliament before one item has been dealt with, preventing a repsonse to the speech from the throne etc?
This isn’t democracy. Watch what happens in January. There won’t be a vote, there will be an election called almost immediately, after the conservatives have been campaigning for two months.
If the GG doesn’t respect what 160+ MPs agree to do now, this GG must go.
And for all the whiners who say seperatistes shouldn’t be allowed to support a government, wake up, they ran as candidates for the House, and they’re in the House. This isn’t a fascist dictatorship where some citizens are exluded from the exercising their democratic right to participate in the government.
Harper was happy to work with Duceppe 4 years ago, and now he’s on TV whipping up a media frenzy over separatism. This is the same man who along with Duceppe tried to bribe Cadman into bringing down the Martin government.
Sheesh.
Whoops, let’s change that to “apparent bribe”, don’t want to libel Steve-o.
By Randy on 12.04.08 9:19 pm
Randy, if they ‘dump’ Dion before his agreed time, do you not realize what a demoralizing, humiliating, cold hearted, nasty thing that would be? They would ruin the man if they did that to him. But, then again, I’ve seen liberals do worse. L
By Leasa on 12.04.08 11:49 pm
————————————-
Leasa, Dion is the man Garth and the Libs have being telling us for a week or so now is so TOTALLY qualified to lead a coalition of Libs, NDPers and BLOCKers and should therefore be the next PM of Canada. If they (Libs) are so willing to promote him as the guy to lead Canada in these desperate economic times I’m TOTALLY sure they would never stab him in the back and dump him prior to May.2009. That would be so un-Lib-like. I’m sure it will never happen, right Garth?
Harper has given the Bloc huge gains in popularity and Steve knows his majority is lost without Quebec.
Talk about cutting off your nose to spite your face.
He’s lost it.
By Judy on 12.04.08 11:29 pm
Actually, he has given up on Quebec and now wants to prod them into separating, ie. Plan F or is it G now? If the Bloc would only smarten up and run a few candidates in Francophone ridings in other Provinces, that would really peeve the peasants! Like they maybe really cut into some of the other parties baileywicks to change the balance of power in a new un thought of way! Near Moose Jaw, Lac La Biche, Legal, Bonneville, St. Paul, and St. Boniface for starters then Northern Ontario, New Brunswick, and Nova Scotia. tis would get Harper right where he would “have a cow man”! Or is that cowabunga?
[...] this post at http://www.garth.ca/weblog/2008/12/04/deceiver/ Posted by Peng Zhang Uncategorized Subscribe to RSS [...]
Dear Leasa:
I feel compelled to try to help you in pointing out the causal effectual signs you’ve shown over the years stemming from not getting enough attention as a child. The continuous craving of the spotlight, the need to be at the center at all the costs… the projections, the cold reactions you mused as better than no reactions… the rejection, it must have been quite difficult for you.
My sympathy’s. I can only hope that you find the strength within yourself to seek a higher power and get well, that you can discover your overcompensations steming from the lack of nurturing you missed in your formidable years. Godspeed towards a healthy recovery in this rudderless time you find yourself in. I shall pray to God that the damage to your self and those around you is controlled and brought to a minimum in what must truly be a difficult time for you.
Be well!
Conservative Party Links to Right Wing American Groups
PDF
http://dawn.thot.net/harperstiestousa/american_right_report.pdf
Amongst his circle are plenty of legal minds and ideologues from the U.S. guiding policy, strategies and financing. The misinformation campaigns been used by the parent group in the U.S. as when they spent 8 years in virual jihad against Clinton and his would be successors. Misinformation is the norm, no qualms about it. The bigger the lie, the more likely they get away with it. Older folks from eastern countries will remember who else used propaganda.
What this group within the Conservatives cleverly hides is the intention in some of bills they introduce. What appeared to be an innocuous property rights bill, introduced four times, has legislation that would allow open access to federal lands and resources for business interests, and curtail the reach of legislation to protect endangered species and the environment, and prevents further government regulation.
His Canadian aides are part of a complex of organizations and law firms in the U.S. that promote the radical right-wing “Constitution-in-Exile” movement, which seeks to dramatically curtail Canada’s ability to regulate in many arenas of society, especially the environment and the workplace. Privatizing healthcare is high on their agenda. Many are invested in those mega-medicare companies who stand to profit. It’s a mix of wealthy societal agendas combined with economically pumping Canada dry.
Through financing and shady networking he gets power and social change, they finance and profit from what he agrees to do. Over 20 candidates and members of Parliament including him have links to the Council made up of the most powerful activists and donors to the socially conservative right-wing in the U.S., able to spread its anti-choice, anti-same sex marriage, anti-environment message through its surrogates, who have either made overt forays into Canadian politics or cultivated ties with the Conservative Party, providing it with financial, strategic and rhetorical support.
Pray for Canada, because when these wealthy business nuts set their sites… well, it almost seems too late. But don’t despair. Have faith, get rid of Harper and support the Coalition. I salute the bravery of Mr. Dion and Mr. Layton who have taken great risk in coming together to save Canada.
I also can find our MP’s contact information Missing in action just like her leader.
I’m sorry I guess we forgot she on a 6 week election preperation vacation.
Thanks GG
So leasa is a PMO staffer paid by our tax dollars to harrass us and you Garth?
Leasa,
your humility is exceeded only by your beauty.
The “coalition of the idiots” has just boosted support in Ontario for the CPC to 44%. If you thought our great PM was tough before you ain’t seen nothing yet baby!
Liberals have proved yet again their stupidity and whoreism. Well done GG and PM!
By John G on 12.04.08 10:40 pm
He’s a coward.
He speaks fear to the nation
By Bruce MacLean on 12.04.08 10:49 pm
See these two qoutes above, this is what our elected MPs in the House of Commons have delivered to the people of Canada…In a word “HATRED” Come on folks, get a grip, you and I are responsible for this…they didn’t get to Ottawa on their own. Don’t tell me there is anyone there who cares about Canadians, their only concern is how do we get and hold onto power. The party system has destroyed democracy in Canada. It doesn’t matter which party is in power, they could care less about you! So I would suggest the coalition of idiots, as John G. put it, is the people of Canada and the cowards, as Bruce MacLean out it, is looking out at us from the mirror. Jack Layton spoke the truth when he said the PM was more concerned about his job than your job, he just forgot to add, he is not alone!
Try to think outside the box for a change.
Expat,
let’s see if you can follow this.
Experienced voters, heck, they don’t even have to be educated, learned long ago that politicians lie for political utility. What they also learned is that party platforms lie just as much as party leaders, and for the same reason of utility. Hope I’m not breaking your little partisan heart with that news.
Then along comes a man like Harper who promises to change politics and do things differently, and fools like me vote for him on 23 January 2006. Then, when he is sworn in on 6 February 2003, we open our eyes and see that our new political emperor is balls-naked, without a stitch of integrity on him. And then he follows up with one half truth and whole lie after another.
Hatred of Harper? It’s more like disgust and trying to erase this mark of Cain on our body politic. But it might be too much trying to explain the difference to a “Conservative”. Truth, fact and logic don’t matter to your kind, only victory at the polls, whether electoral or “cooked” opinion.
Too bad you’re not really an expat. Your approach to politics belongs somewhere else.
Pussy footing.
Bending the truth..
whatever you want to call it, Harper is correct.
Cleverly worded is the above letter, but while not specifically saying it, the implication was there.
I think the same people that did Dion’s taped speech, are now having Jack and Rae going coast to coast to sell the coalition…oh, the optics, absolutely hilarious. Pass the popcorn, Scott. LOL
Nice going on the job situation CPC. You have broken more laws during your time, denigrated every Canadian institution and built your house of cards on lies and dissension to the point you are an illegitimate entity. You think the Sweet Lord is saying “well done”? Or do you expect your redemption when you’re all done here? Hey I know, cut out all public funding for everything, THROW THE LOCKS ON THE DOOR, head for your guns and religion and above all use your Ayn Rand guidebook and don’t share. Keeps the weak alive longer. Such a drain. What you do to the LEAST of His is being stored up and don’t forget, we are watching. And praying.
Sorry about the swearing-in date in my 7:16 am. It’s 2006, not 2003 – but you all knew that.
Weak Weak Case
These are the same like an elephant and a cat are both animals. True but very different animals.
The Liberals gave the balance of power -veto power to the BLOC. Twist it anyway you chose in your own mind but it has been reported this way extensively by the media because it in fact is so!
Wrong. No veto. Give it up. — Garth
See these two qoutes above, this is what our elected MPs in the House of Commons have delivered to the people of Canada…In a word “HATRED” Come on folks, get a grip, you and I are responsible for this…they didn’t get to Ottawa on their own.
No way man, an infighting government is the only thing that keeps these bozos from screwing up the economy more than they already have. God bless minority governments.
I mean the Liberals have freaking Bob Rae spewing his crap all over TV. He’s got such a good track record in Ontario, of course we should listen to him. Holly crap, are you people nuts! To think that someone actually got up one morning and cast a vote for him…Yikes No wonder Ontario is in deep..
Weak Weak Case
These are the same like an elephant and a cat are both animals. True but very different animals.
The Liberals gave the balance of power -veto power to the BLOC. Twist it anyway you chose in your own mind but it has been reported this way extensively by the media because it in fact is so!
Wrong. No veto. Give it up. — Garth
Those were the words used over and over by the media. I guess they need to give it up too.
CBC made it clear repeatedly yesterday the BQ is not part of the coalition and hat Harper’s assertion was ‘false.’ I think you’re watching too much political coverage on The Food Network. — Garth
By The Umpire on 12.04.08 6:55 pm
“Never, Ever, sign on with the Bloq and give them the power of veto, simple, just say NO to Separatists”
Would that INCLUDE THE BLOC ALBERTA – the hyper partisan CPC blogroaches threatening western separation?
By SJ on 12.04.08 7:13 pm
“I’m very disheartened. Losing ones faith in your own country is not a pleasant feeling.”
Welcome to my “club”. At least in Quebec, there may be an option…
By Dee on 12.04.08 7:58 pm
“I know for a fact Quebeckers are Not pleased.”
BINGO!
I made a point of watching the French network coverage. Not too many smiling faces. Even the pundits typically supporting sovereignty weren’t pleased. As i have previously posted – this is very dangerous.
as I believe Admiral Yamamoto said to Emperor Toto after Pearl Harbour (paraphrased)”I fear we have awakened the sleeping dragon”.
Oh so delicious this coalition. I can’t wait until Mr. Dion is our Prime Minister. You will all see! Within days of him, Jack and Gille all the lost jobs will be back! Also they are going to fix the environment for the whole world by the end of next year. You’ll all see! I bet that even Gilles becomes a nationalist because then he will love Canada and tell all his people to love Canada. We will put CPC people in jail because I read on this blog that they break lots of laws and bad stuff. Anyway, I’m off to build my statue of Mr. Dion for my front lawn.
Ta ta!
I mean the Liberals have freaking Bob Rae spewing his crap all over TV. He’s got such a good track record in Ontario, of course we should listen to him. Holly crap, are you people nuts! To think that someone actually got up one morning and cast a vote for him…Yikes No wonder Ontario is in deep..
By LoonieLeftWingers on 12.05.08 10:06 am
I couldn’t agree with you more, but don’t let the socialist CPC with their biggest spending budget in Canadian history near the pot as well…you still don’t get it…it is not one party, it is all parties…the party system has corrupted Ottawa, the voters have been duped, not just Liberal or CPC voters, all voters…they couldn’t give a damn about you, your job and the country’s future, it is all about them…get a grip on reality and stop your whining and complaining and send someone to Ottawa who represents the people instead of a party!
By Judy on 12.04.08 11:33 pm
“Unfortunately Quebeckers are a principled bunch and couldn’t be bought.”
Thank you from a proud Quebecois.
CBC made it clear repeatedly yesterday the BQ is not part of the coalition and hat Harper’s assertion was ‘false.’ I think you’re watching too much political coverage on The Food Network. — Garth
Oh Garth, what am I going to do with you? I remember a guy a few years ago wrote a piece about the bias of the CBC and media against the Conservatives. Do you remember that. Fact is Garth, there is a written formal agreement for Dion & Layton to govern with the Bloc. Gilles said it himself that every important piece of legislation would have to get past him. Parizeau said “the document we MADE Dion sign would make separatists smile”.
It’s a formal written legal agreement to govern this country(I know I am probably spelling Parizeau wrong, but I couldn’t remember how to spell parasite)
Leasa
Weak Weak Case
These are the same like an elephant and a cat are both animals. True but very different animals.
The Liberals gave the balance of power -veto power to the BLOC. Twist it anyway you chose in your own mind but it has been reported this way extensively by the media because it in fact is so!
Wrong. No veto. Give it up. — Garth
Those were the words used over and over by the media. I guess they need to give it up too.
CBC made it clear repeatedly yesterday the BQ is not part of the coalition and hat Harper’s assertion was ‘false.’ I think you’re watching too much political coverage on The Food Network. — Garth
Garth, stay on the issue. Whether they are part of the coalition or a supporter of the coalition – the media has repeatedly said the BLOC holds the balance of power. I am not disputing the technicalities of who is in the coalition. I agree with the media’s assertion that the BLOC holds the balance of power.
There’s a reason why Harper played the separatist card: When He walked into the meeting with the GG, she was prepared to deny his request to close parliament. He threatened her, that if she did, he would scream bloddy murder about her, and her husband’s, past associations with the separatists. So she had no choice but to so as he told her.
Sorry for the typos! I’ll try again.
There’s a reason why Harper played the separatist card: when he walked in to the meeting with the GG, she was prepared to deny his request to prorogue parliament. He threatened her, that if she did, he would scream bloody murder about her, and her husband’s, past associations with the separatists. So she had no choice but to do as he told her.
Thanks Fly.
As I understand it, the Bloc simply agreed to support the NDP/Liberal coalition on any vote of confidence for a limited amount of time only, but were free to vote however they liked on any other measure. No money changed hands and no other promises were made. How does that differ from Harper’s open-handed generosity towards Quebec both politically – the “nation” statement – andmonetarily – the rejigged equalization formula that clearly benefits Quebec to the detriment of other provinces – as well as diplomatic representation in UNESCO. Quebec was given far, far more by Mr. Harper than the coalition. But, of course, now that it suits him, he has chosen to fan the flames of separatism in both Canada and Quebec. The man is mischievous and a villain.
“Harper counted on the BQ to pass every budget. Harper aime Duceppe. — Garth”
I don’t really think so Garth. He counted on a bankrupt Liberal party in shambles who was MIA more often than not.
IS THERE A SIGNED COPY OF HARPERS LETTER AVAILABLE.. ANYBODY COULD TYPE OUT THE LETTER AS ATTACHED.
RETIREDIA
When a political party can no longer support itself and must rely on government grants …paid for by our taxes….these political parties are no longer viable….defunct, gone….get out of the arena.
The Block has no place in our Federal government.How can they have a say federally when they are only out for them selves and if they could have their way, would break up our country.
I voted against his budgets, as an Independent and as a Liberal. Blow smoke. — Garth
By phil on 12.05.08 11:34 am
You might have been one of the few Liberals who were present. The question is where were the rest of them when all these budgets were past?
When a political party can no longer support itself and must rely on government grants …paid for by our taxes….these political parties are no longer viable….defunct, gone….get out of the arena.
The Block has no place in our Federal government.How can they have a say federally when they are only out for them selves and if they could have their way, would break up our country.
By Shirl on 12.05.08 8:51 pm
So, how are things there at the RNC HQ, there in the States? Up here, in CANADA, we know the BQ as the Bloc, not the block. Does that make you a blockhead?
When a political party can no longer support itself and must rely on government grants …paid for by our taxes….these political parties are no longer viable….defunct, gone….get out of the arena.
The Block has no place in our Federal government.How can they have a say federally when they are only out for them selves and if they could have their way, would break up our country.
By Shirl on 12.05.08 8:51 pm
Shirley, the reason for tax funding for political parties was to replace the huge business bribes that were distorting the nations business. It is my contention that all political party funding should come from taxes ONLY and all other sources be banned. Every private donation comes with a demand for special interest favored legislation and that is WRONG regardless of the source, corporate or personal! Special interests should not be allowed to BUY our politicians.
Tax based funding is equal, proportional, and above board, plus honorable. Not only must our politicians be free of tainted funding it must be seen to be free of strings attached.
By Ken on 12.05.08 11:17 am
And the media are so unbiased, too? Not the way they have performed since the day the Green Shift was announced. This has been the most biased coverage in the history of the media in Canada. While, I am not in support of the Green Shift as it was written, nor some of the other counter plans, The media vilification of Mr. Dion, and his supporters, has been in some cases over the top plus crude and crass. Frankly there is too much money and priveledge at stake plus far too much cultural revision required of all of us. What we are seeing is that by the time natural market forces come into play, it is too late. The suffering that is going to come will be more wide spread than expected because we did not get our act together soon enough. This depression will leave scars on most of the free world like the Great Depression did and that lasted for over a generation. I will be dead and burnt before this one has played out.
Too bad you’re not really an expat. Your approach to politics belongs somewhere else.
By Herb on 12.05.08 7:16 am
Oh I follow you and will admit I am not too impressed with Harper myself but I have yet to see an alternative out there. As I stated in my earlier post the decision is easier today than 2 weeks ago because my only options now are Conservative vs. Coalition. I guess you didn’t understand. Oh yeah, and how am I not an expat?
[...] I’m transcribing the letter, which I found in Garth Turner’s post on this issue. I don’t always agree with Turner, and I think he’s a bit of a showman, but I also [...]
As Senator Larry Campbell said on National radio.
Harper is a Hypocrite and an “idiot”.
I believe Campbell.