Bill Barry wants to be Premier. That's nice for him - but what of for us?
The first interview you should watch is On Point with David Cochrance CBC - Press HERE
Let's start with "if everyone in the province wants the same old same old - I can tell 48 people to vote for".
With that one statement Bill Barry eliminated all elected MHA's - from all sides of the House. He does not agree with one of them? Certainly it was a smack at the Party he wants to lead - and maybe that's not a bad thing - but smacking everybody that any of us elected is more than a little scary.
Cochrane did a good job probing some of the obvious questions and therefore the people get a chance to listen to unedited answers. A response to one of the questions regarding political ideology - Barry stated "I am running for the Conservative Party". That statement was very clear and certainly distances Barry from the Progressive Conservatives in this province - who Barry feels are not conservative. "I am a fiscal Conservative" Barry said. Another indicator that his leanings are very/extreme right is when he says only, "I don't consider myself a callous person", he does not say I'm a social Liberal.
Sue's Blog made an initial call on Barry - likening him to Bill Gates - in that both gentlemen appear to love consolidation in their favour and the elimination of competition. They both also like to be in control of who is worthy to receive money and under what circumstances. This comes through again and again in his interview with Cochrane.
As for his comment "most of the crowd in government today - if it's a bucket of shit - most of them wouldn't know it if you hauled it down over their head" - Barry danced like a wounded butterfly to escape what he calls "Billisms".
Barry has his own language - and an ego to match. If Barry was that concerned about governance of the Province since Clyde Wells - then he certainly did not rally the people - speak out - do something to stop all the wastage's.
One of Cochrane's questions netted the following comment, "My life experience and business experience is quite different than would be the norm in the House of Assembly"... On this one I want Barry to elaborate. More particularly his life experience. The idea that Bill's life is quite different than most in the HOA means it is different than the norm of the people who elected them. What in Bill's life is different and not the norm? This particularly - as he has toyed with changing the health and education systems.
We already know Barry blew it on the "Newfoundland Inc." comment - no mention of Labrador - which he corrected in the interview to say Newfoundland and Labrador Inc. Once again it was obvious where Barry would go fiscally - and is one of the real indicators where he would go socially. Businesses - such as the ones he operates are not operated with a social agenda - they are operated to be profitable. The government and it's whole reason for existence may be escaping Barry.
Barry does talk about increasing revenues though royalties and increased activity in offshore exploration - but says nothing about the secondary processing piece - where we use our resources to attract industry with maximum processing output. That is the only way we sustain an economy and grow population. Barry's route would see a continued stripping of natural resources - mostly in the Labrador Inc. part of the equation - for a one time royalty. He sees royalties not industrial development and growth in the secondary processing sector as the way to sustain expenditures. Barry does not get that because it works in his business does not mean it will work to develop and grow a society. If Barry finds a better price for "his" fish - processing or otherwise - elsewhere - then it's gone. Stripping out ores and straight-lining energy out - instead of using the naturally occurring resource to expand industrial processing - seems to be his tune. Ironically this is no different than the government he abhors.
On the political savvy side of the equation - he does not get it. Barry states to Cochrane "I'm not politically smart" - and wears it like a badge of honour. I certainly cannot be accused of wanting politics as usual - but there is no need to deny yourself knowledge - and this appears to be what Barry has done. He says of delegates going to the Tory leadership convention - to go there with an open mind - listen to everybody then decide. Barry clearly does not even understand why most of the delegates would be there. If Barry wanted to do something different - he should be up bellowing for an open voting process - and attract 10,000 people to vote for him.
Bill Barry woke up one morning - the same way Danny Williams did - today I'm gonna become Premier - I'm gonna shake things up - I'm gonna do it my way. Let me take my prowess at making a fortune in the private sector and let me run your government that way. Our unemployment is still way up - we are losing population - we are growing debt and producing deficits - we are making bad deals for the people but great deals for the private elite.
Business as usual - Williams and Barry - same ting....
The two boys are feeling competitive - that's all. That want to use us as their playhouse.
Showing posts with label Harper. Show all posts
Showing posts with label Harper. Show all posts
Tuesday, February 11, 2014
Saturday, January 14, 2012
Weekend Doozies - Rob Nicholson - Shawn Skinner - Danny Williams
The top spot goes to Federal Minister of Justice Rob Nicholson - please remember now this man is the Justice Minister - and he apparently does not understand how laws are made!
By doing the typical Conservative Harper Jig - blaming the Liberals for flawed legislation - he made all of his colleagues look like idiots.
This of course is referencing the problems discovered in the Civil Marriage Act and reported by the global media this week.
So Minister Nicholson - there were Conservatives in the House of Commons when the Act was being passed - why didn't they pick up the problems?
In one fell swoop Nicholson exposed a nasty reality. The people we employ - first and foremost to sit in our legislatures to make, amend, and repeal laws - are not engaged. Of course in Newfoundland and Labrador they avoid that problem by not opening the House of Assembly to begin with.
As people we should be disgusted.
Next up is former Premier Danny Williams and his re-entry into the media spotlight - despite saying it's not what he'd do after he left politics. Problem is his baby project is being attacked. Dunderdale is having problems ushering through - without critique - the flawed Muskrat Falls development.
Dunderdale was chosen by Williams on his way out - and she was to get this deal through. Apparently despite Williams's contention that the Premier is doing a great job in getting information out to the public - he felt it necessary to play clean-up. Williams is banking on his formidable record of public support to wave his wand and state all is well with Muskrat Falls.
The question is why would media give it the time of day? He is the former Premier - he left the project unfinished and returned to the private sector. The private sector does include companies salivating to get their hands on some of the 6 billion dollars you and I will pay for.
His PC Party - led by his chosen replacement is doing a "great job" - so why did he feel the need to enter the fray? That's one question that should be asked - the second should be if he is involved in any company that may in any way benefit from this development? That is a fair question now - as the current Premier has no problem questioning the agendas of critics to the deal.
As people we should be disgusted.
Finally there is Shawn Skinner former PC MHA and Cabinet Minister - the Minister responsible for the deal prior to being defeated in the fall election by NDP Gerry Rogers.
He says that if he was in Cabinet now - the recommendation would be to hold a special session of the House of Assembly to debate the Muskrat development. Surely he could have set that process up when he WAS the Minister. If that had happened it would look really bad if the Premier wiped out a process set-up by her former Minister. So the questions are:
When you were the Minister - why didn't you set up a process that would see such a debate?
When you were Minister - did you actually ask that this process be set-up?
If you did ask - why was it rejected by your Cabinet colleagues?
If you did not ask - why not - and why now?
As people we should be disgusted.
By doing the typical Conservative Harper Jig - blaming the Liberals for flawed legislation - he made all of his colleagues look like idiots.
This of course is referencing the problems discovered in the Civil Marriage Act and reported by the global media this week.
So Minister Nicholson - there were Conservatives in the House of Commons when the Act was being passed - why didn't they pick up the problems?
In one fell swoop Nicholson exposed a nasty reality. The people we employ - first and foremost to sit in our legislatures to make, amend, and repeal laws - are not engaged. Of course in Newfoundland and Labrador they avoid that problem by not opening the House of Assembly to begin with.
As people we should be disgusted.
Next up is former Premier Danny Williams and his re-entry into the media spotlight - despite saying it's not what he'd do after he left politics. Problem is his baby project is being attacked. Dunderdale is having problems ushering through - without critique - the flawed Muskrat Falls development.
Dunderdale was chosen by Williams on his way out - and she was to get this deal through. Apparently despite Williams's contention that the Premier is doing a great job in getting information out to the public - he felt it necessary to play clean-up. Williams is banking on his formidable record of public support to wave his wand and state all is well with Muskrat Falls.
The question is why would media give it the time of day? He is the former Premier - he left the project unfinished and returned to the private sector. The private sector does include companies salivating to get their hands on some of the 6 billion dollars you and I will pay for.
His PC Party - led by his chosen replacement is doing a "great job" - so why did he feel the need to enter the fray? That's one question that should be asked - the second should be if he is involved in any company that may in any way benefit from this development? That is a fair question now - as the current Premier has no problem questioning the agendas of critics to the deal.
As people we should be disgusted.
Finally there is Shawn Skinner former PC MHA and Cabinet Minister - the Minister responsible for the deal prior to being defeated in the fall election by NDP Gerry Rogers.
He says that if he was in Cabinet now - the recommendation would be to hold a special session of the House of Assembly to debate the Muskrat development. Surely he could have set that process up when he WAS the Minister. If that had happened it would look really bad if the Premier wiped out a process set-up by her former Minister. So the questions are:
When you were the Minister - why didn't you set up a process that would see such a debate?
When you were Minister - did you actually ask that this process be set-up?
If you did ask - why was it rejected by your Cabinet colleagues?
If you did not ask - why not - and why now?
As people we should be disgusted.
Monday, June 27, 2011
The Lower Churchill Project could lead to loss of Sovereignty
Sovereignty you question? Yes Sovereignty!
Unfortunately we voted ourselves out of complete independence when we "joined" Canada. However there is still this little small item remaining that of a province.
You and I have listened to musings of creating one Atlantic Province called Atlantica. Many business people and some politicians have really entertained this.
From a business perspective - many elite billionaires dream about the super province wherein the resources of Newfoundland and particularly Labrador can be stripped from this geography and delivered to Nova Scotia and New Brunswick for processing and wealth. A corporate dream that would see Newfoundlanders and Labradorians flock to work in the Maritime region - leaving the province with no specific purpose other than camps of workers to extract resource after resource and the power to fuel industry will come from Labrador and delivered to the new Maritime business mecca. Almost like Great Britain when it sent fishermen for a season but would not allow settlement.
If you cannot imagine this - then you could not have imagined we would give up our Dominion status and sell-out to the mighty Canada. But - it did happen.
Since that time we have not enjoyed steady population and industrial growth - rather we have had decimation of resource after resource - and the decimation of our rural communities and population of youth.
We have seen naive politicians make deal after deal with global corporations - that always placed the needs of our people last. We have never enjoyed full benefit from any resource we have exploited.
Our history is in the fishery - but the fishery is almost dead - this after turning management over to Ottawa. This was a renewable resource - a food basket of the world - now it is a just a fraction of what it once was. Remember in 1992 it was only to take 10 years to recover - where is that recovery? Where are the 40,000 people it took with it? Where are the communities? Where are the fishplants? Disgrace!
Then there was the mines - the great wealth of minerals - hauled out truck by truck ship by ship train by train to be processed elsewhere - taking the high paying jobs and skilled workers with it. Communities stripped of their wealth without an heritage fund - left with nothing but a polluted place. Disgrace!
Our forestry - almost stripped bare - and then as we finally forced reforestation and sustainable harvesting - we lost the industry it fuelled. Two paper mills gone. Discrace!
Lastly our power - the tremendous Upper Churchill potential lost to generations of our people - nothing to show for it - not industry - not jobs. Where parts of Labrador continue to rely on thermal generation and not an aluminum smelter in sight. 5000 mw's fuelling the Quebec economy and fuelling Hydro-Quebec the most powerful of power companies. For years losing equalization based on revenues we could not even collect.
Now Dunderdale and the Tories feel compelled to export another block of power - this time subsidizing it for Nova Scotia and others - while not delivering this power to all of Labrador - and not one MW for industry in the Big Land. Dunderdale claiming she is willing to listen to real arguments opposed to the Emera giveaway - but as Danny would say "nothing could be further from the truth". Dunderdale drilling down with due diligence so she may be all over a file - she does not have a real clue about.
Tell me something Ms. Dunderdale - who or what is the Atlantica Centre for Energy ?
What of the description:
The Atlantica Centre for Energy is an industry association dedicated to the sustainable growth and economic development of the regional energy sector. Originally centered in southwestern New Brunswick, the Centre's board has expanded to include leading energy professionals and national professional services companies in Maine, Nova Scotia, Newfoundland & Labrador and Ontario.
The Centre serves as a bridge between corporations and the community to help realize the opportunities associated with the energy sector in Atlantic Canada and the American Northeast. It provides a meeting ground for government, the education and research sectors, and the community at large to foster partnerships and engagement in energy-related issues and policy development.
Who is benefiting from power found in Labrador? Why would that be fuelling an Atlantica vision? How is it we benefit by creating wealth outside our province?
How about their vision for the Lower Churchill found HERE
I can tell you this Premier Dunderdale and Cabinet - what you are doing with the Lower Churchill will make the architects of the Upper Churchill look like patriots to this province and her people. Are you that naive - or are you that involved?
Again I remain amazed at the PC members so willing to become part of this - the worst giveaway in our history - the day we sold our province.
Unfortunately we voted ourselves out of complete independence when we "joined" Canada. However there is still this little small item remaining that of a province.
You and I have listened to musings of creating one Atlantic Province called Atlantica. Many business people and some politicians have really entertained this.
From a business perspective - many elite billionaires dream about the super province wherein the resources of Newfoundland and particularly Labrador can be stripped from this geography and delivered to Nova Scotia and New Brunswick for processing and wealth. A corporate dream that would see Newfoundlanders and Labradorians flock to work in the Maritime region - leaving the province with no specific purpose other than camps of workers to extract resource after resource and the power to fuel industry will come from Labrador and delivered to the new Maritime business mecca. Almost like Great Britain when it sent fishermen for a season but would not allow settlement.
If you cannot imagine this - then you could not have imagined we would give up our Dominion status and sell-out to the mighty Canada. But - it did happen.
Since that time we have not enjoyed steady population and industrial growth - rather we have had decimation of resource after resource - and the decimation of our rural communities and population of youth.
We have seen naive politicians make deal after deal with global corporations - that always placed the needs of our people last. We have never enjoyed full benefit from any resource we have exploited.
Our history is in the fishery - but the fishery is almost dead - this after turning management over to Ottawa. This was a renewable resource - a food basket of the world - now it is a just a fraction of what it once was. Remember in 1992 it was only to take 10 years to recover - where is that recovery? Where are the 40,000 people it took with it? Where are the communities? Where are the fishplants? Disgrace!
Then there was the mines - the great wealth of minerals - hauled out truck by truck ship by ship train by train to be processed elsewhere - taking the high paying jobs and skilled workers with it. Communities stripped of their wealth without an heritage fund - left with nothing but a polluted place. Disgrace!
Our forestry - almost stripped bare - and then as we finally forced reforestation and sustainable harvesting - we lost the industry it fuelled. Two paper mills gone. Discrace!
Lastly our power - the tremendous Upper Churchill potential lost to generations of our people - nothing to show for it - not industry - not jobs. Where parts of Labrador continue to rely on thermal generation and not an aluminum smelter in sight. 5000 mw's fuelling the Quebec economy and fuelling Hydro-Quebec the most powerful of power companies. For years losing equalization based on revenues we could not even collect.
Now Dunderdale and the Tories feel compelled to export another block of power - this time subsidizing it for Nova Scotia and others - while not delivering this power to all of Labrador - and not one MW for industry in the Big Land. Dunderdale claiming she is willing to listen to real arguments opposed to the Emera giveaway - but as Danny would say "nothing could be further from the truth". Dunderdale drilling down with due diligence so she may be all over a file - she does not have a real clue about.
Tell me something Ms. Dunderdale - who or what is the Atlantica Centre for Energy ?
What of the description:
The Atlantica Centre for Energy is an industry association dedicated to the sustainable growth and economic development of the regional energy sector. Originally centered in southwestern New Brunswick, the Centre's board has expanded to include leading energy professionals and national professional services companies in Maine, Nova Scotia, Newfoundland & Labrador and Ontario.
The Centre serves as a bridge between corporations and the community to help realize the opportunities associated with the energy sector in Atlantic Canada and the American Northeast. It provides a meeting ground for government, the education and research sectors, and the community at large to foster partnerships and engagement in energy-related issues and policy development.
Who is benefiting from power found in Labrador? Why would that be fuelling an Atlantica vision? How is it we benefit by creating wealth outside our province?
How about their vision for the Lower Churchill found HERE
I can tell you this Premier Dunderdale and Cabinet - what you are doing with the Lower Churchill will make the architects of the Upper Churchill look like patriots to this province and her people. Are you that naive - or are you that involved?
Again I remain amazed at the PC members so willing to become part of this - the worst giveaway in our history - the day we sold our province.
Tuesday, May 10, 2011
Award winning Journalists and the Fighting Dunderdale Government
Oh my - how do I say this politely? What a joke! Wait now let me say it again. What a joke!
Just a few days ago the CBC, and the Telegram ran stories about our award winning journalists. Topping that is Tom Marshall expressing delight that Kathy Dunderdale picked the winning horse in the Federal election - almost at a level of mind-reading genius. (more on that in next post)
With all the talent and genius in this province at the media and political level - perhaps one or all of them could show real interest in the real issues and trouble brewing around us.
Dunderdale is celebrating the potential loan guarantee for a Lower Churchill development that will be the worst resource deal in our history - should it proceed and the media is back slapping each other for the weather turmoil that unfortunately wrecked some communities and lives.
Meanwhile Hydro-Quebec carries on the plunder and the "in your face" disregard for our boundaries or our rivers. The Quebec owned utility has just published it's sustainability report for 2010 - and it demonstrates for all those willing to open their eyes - unplug their partisan ears - and open their PC mouths - that our province is being treated like dirt. We are ignored, ridiculed, and politically abused.
Please go the the following link (HERE) and notice the maps (page 2-3) before you in this 2010 report. Please note the boundaries on this official government document and please note the Romaine River which Quebec is now developing for its own use and profit.
Now try to sit there as a Newfoundlander and Labradorian or an aboriginal person and not ask yourself - are we fools? Where are the so-called award winning journalists and where are the fighting Newfoundland and Labrador politicians?
The media in our province is reporting - not investigating and they are through their own fault or that of assignment editors refusing to cover the absolute destruction of our province and its resources. The Dunderdale government says we must export power so the debate (if any) is whether or not to pump it out through Quebec or Nova Scotia. The debate should have always been about whether to export or not - and then go into the other areas of discussion.
So we are avoiding Quebec - so Kathy says and the media dutifully report - and if it costs us our future - so be it. We will win - Quebec will lose - we are advised. Not only is that not true - it gets worse when you see what Dunderdale and Cabinet are not taking on. We will lose our Labrador borders to Quebec - unless we fight to protect them. We have already conceded the Romaine River, on our way to conceding Old Harry, and the Romaine Caribou Herd. What's next? Oh our children will certainly find out as they realize that yet again inept politicians and either directed or disinterested (journalists) reporters have sold us up and down the river.
By the way where are the intellectual voices of our university professors or historians? Shame on us all!
I thought we understood "squatters rights".
And for those politicians, media, and lazy arses that continue to say - it does not matter - WE know the difference. This sustainability report IS an official government document and is viewed worldwide. It is viewed by large industrial companies and investors. Further it's a little late for the Romaine River right?
Just a few days ago the CBC, and the Telegram ran stories about our award winning journalists. Topping that is Tom Marshall expressing delight that Kathy Dunderdale picked the winning horse in the Federal election - almost at a level of mind-reading genius. (more on that in next post)
With all the talent and genius in this province at the media and political level - perhaps one or all of them could show real interest in the real issues and trouble brewing around us.
Dunderdale is celebrating the potential loan guarantee for a Lower Churchill development that will be the worst resource deal in our history - should it proceed and the media is back slapping each other for the weather turmoil that unfortunately wrecked some communities and lives.
Meanwhile Hydro-Quebec carries on the plunder and the "in your face" disregard for our boundaries or our rivers. The Quebec owned utility has just published it's sustainability report for 2010 - and it demonstrates for all those willing to open their eyes - unplug their partisan ears - and open their PC mouths - that our province is being treated like dirt. We are ignored, ridiculed, and politically abused.
Please go the the following link (HERE) and notice the maps (page 2-3) before you in this 2010 report. Please note the boundaries on this official government document and please note the Romaine River which Quebec is now developing for its own use and profit.
Now try to sit there as a Newfoundlander and Labradorian or an aboriginal person and not ask yourself - are we fools? Where are the so-called award winning journalists and where are the fighting Newfoundland and Labrador politicians?
The media in our province is reporting - not investigating and they are through their own fault or that of assignment editors refusing to cover the absolute destruction of our province and its resources. The Dunderdale government says we must export power so the debate (if any) is whether or not to pump it out through Quebec or Nova Scotia. The debate should have always been about whether to export or not - and then go into the other areas of discussion.
So we are avoiding Quebec - so Kathy says and the media dutifully report - and if it costs us our future - so be it. We will win - Quebec will lose - we are advised. Not only is that not true - it gets worse when you see what Dunderdale and Cabinet are not taking on. We will lose our Labrador borders to Quebec - unless we fight to protect them. We have already conceded the Romaine River, on our way to conceding Old Harry, and the Romaine Caribou Herd. What's next? Oh our children will certainly find out as they realize that yet again inept politicians and either directed or disinterested (journalists) reporters have sold us up and down the river.
By the way where are the intellectual voices of our university professors or historians? Shame on us all!
I thought we understood "squatters rights".
And for those politicians, media, and lazy arses that continue to say - it does not matter - WE know the difference. This sustainability report IS an official government document and is viewed worldwide. It is viewed by large industrial companies and investors. Further it's a little late for the Romaine River right?
Wednesday, April 20, 2011
Evan Solomon - Power & Propaganda - Co-A-Li-Tion
Power & Politics with Evan Solomon today - has confirmed for me that a name change is in order. Power & Propaganda as I will now refer to it - proved what Sue's Blog alluded to in an earlier post is true. Conservative candidates must line up to have a crack at being able to spew the "official" Harper message - over and over on a program that allows such rubbish.
Solomon had no control over the Conservative talking head Pierre Poilievre - who lied through omission over and over - while the NDP Robert Chisholm and Liberal Christine Innes did not have equal time.
First of all - the issue of coalition was concocted by Stephen Harper and was pursued by the media not the public. Mansbridge raised the issue again when interviewing Ignatieff. Next the CBC re fabricated the issue which is not being driven by the people of Canada.
The Conservative was once again - as is always the case with Solomon - permitted to avoid questions and continue to lie about what Ignatieff said. He further lied when he stated what was in the minds of Duceppe, Ignatieff, and Layton.
Solomon referred to getting the most seats in an election. He appears to have a difficult time understanding the obvious.
If Canada gives party A 4 seats party B 3 seats Party C 2 seats and party D 1 seat what does that mean?
It means that party A can attempt to form a government representing 40% of the public ideology but must however address the 60% with another ideology. If Party A can convince either Party B or C individually to go along with a modified or cooperative combination of ideology then Party A can have 70% or 60% respectively of the parliament. That then would give them a way to operate like a majority.
If Party A can convince party's C and D to support a cooperative platform then Party A could sit with 70% of the parliament and thereby Canadians support.
If Party A acts like its 40% is a majority and ignores the wishes of 60% of the country then Party A will have failed to get majority support and would fall.
Then Party B would get a chance to try to make 30% become a majority by working cooperatively with parties C and D or even Party A.
So if Stephen Harper wants to remain in power if he receives a minority - he has to stop his contempt of the Canadian people and our democracy and find common ground. If this man cannot achieve this after so many years trying - he should do the honourable thing and resign. Perhaps this is the point Canada - Harper is intolerant of our democracy and therefore threatens to use our own system to frighten us.
Harper has spent more time manipulating the media and message regarding a coalition than ever spent on convincing Canadians that his party is the best party for the people.
If Evan Solomon cannot control Conservatives who come to his show day after day and say the same things including lies - day after day - then perhaps there should be a critical review of the program.
Ty to fellow twitter David for some info...
Solomon had no control over the Conservative talking head Pierre Poilievre - who lied through omission over and over - while the NDP Robert Chisholm and Liberal Christine Innes did not have equal time.
First of all - the issue of coalition was concocted by Stephen Harper and was pursued by the media not the public. Mansbridge raised the issue again when interviewing Ignatieff. Next the CBC re fabricated the issue which is not being driven by the people of Canada.
The Conservative was once again - as is always the case with Solomon - permitted to avoid questions and continue to lie about what Ignatieff said. He further lied when he stated what was in the minds of Duceppe, Ignatieff, and Layton.
Solomon referred to getting the most seats in an election. He appears to have a difficult time understanding the obvious.
If Canada gives party A 4 seats party B 3 seats Party C 2 seats and party D 1 seat what does that mean?
It means that party A can attempt to form a government representing 40% of the public ideology but must however address the 60% with another ideology. If Party A can convince either Party B or C individually to go along with a modified or cooperative combination of ideology then Party A can have 70% or 60% respectively of the parliament. That then would give them a way to operate like a majority.
If Party A can convince party's C and D to support a cooperative platform then Party A could sit with 70% of the parliament and thereby Canadians support.
If Party A acts like its 40% is a majority and ignores the wishes of 60% of the country then Party A will have failed to get majority support and would fall.
Then Party B would get a chance to try to make 30% become a majority by working cooperatively with parties C and D or even Party A.
So if Stephen Harper wants to remain in power if he receives a minority - he has to stop his contempt of the Canadian people and our democracy and find common ground. If this man cannot achieve this after so many years trying - he should do the honourable thing and resign. Perhaps this is the point Canada - Harper is intolerant of our democracy and therefore threatens to use our own system to frighten us.
Harper has spent more time manipulating the media and message regarding a coalition than ever spent on convincing Canadians that his party is the best party for the people.
If Evan Solomon cannot control Conservatives who come to his show day after day and say the same things including lies - day after day - then perhaps there should be a critical review of the program.
Ty to fellow twitter David for some info...
Tuesday, March 29, 2011
How to lie and make it okay. Harper takes lessons from Mulroney
Yesterday's election events revealed a new tactic by Stephen Harper. Lie - four years out.
Yes the leader of the Conservative/Reform/Alliance Party promised income splitting for some young families - as soon as the budget deficit was erased. Predicted to be four years out. In this way Harper can lie now and not have to pay later. You see Harper is a liar - but Canadians are getting used to that fact - and must really consider how they can vote for such a person.
Remember Mulroney and his income tax fiasco - running between the USA and Canada in and out of hotels, briefcases full of money, envelopes, safety deposit boxes - for all we know secret panels in a shoe. Mulroney proved that the passage of time - associated with cheating the system - ripping off Canadians seemed more palatable with the passage of time - and of course a really good expensive lawyer.
Then there was Harper's newly created and most recent lie - where he concocted something - he hoped would pacify Terry Milewski CBC - when he asked Harper yet again about his own plan to form a CO-A-LI-TION. Harper now says - I was not really going to form a CO-A-LI-TION - I was just trying to scare the Liberals by having them think I was. Once again - this lie - has become somewhat more palatable with the passage of time.
Do you remember last week? That's when Harper suggested that the opposition parties did not have to FORCE us into an election - no - Harper suggested the other parties could have gone to the Governor General and asked - can we form a CO-A-LI-TION?
The irony of Harper taking lessons from Mulroney is this; Harper exists because Canadians threw Mulroney and his party to the curb. Then like the recyclers Harper is not really fond of - we green Canadians recycled the lot to form the "new" Conservative Party. Then with the likes of Peter MacKay and our own Loyola Hearn they stabbed each other in the back so many times - there was a run on knives - that PC blood flowed out spilling integrity, honesty and trust.
If Harper wants to lie to Canadians - in an attempt to scare them - by suggesting the CO-A-LI-TION already exists - then let me add this; if Harper were ever to form a majority - the Reform Party not the Conservatives - would be running our country. That is something we all should be very afraid of.
Yes the leader of the Conservative/Reform/Alliance Party promised income splitting for some young families - as soon as the budget deficit was erased. Predicted to be four years out. In this way Harper can lie now and not have to pay later. You see Harper is a liar - but Canadians are getting used to that fact - and must really consider how they can vote for such a person.
Remember Mulroney and his income tax fiasco - running between the USA and Canada in and out of hotels, briefcases full of money, envelopes, safety deposit boxes - for all we know secret panels in a shoe. Mulroney proved that the passage of time - associated with cheating the system - ripping off Canadians seemed more palatable with the passage of time - and of course a really good expensive lawyer.
Then there was Harper's newly created and most recent lie - where he concocted something - he hoped would pacify Terry Milewski CBC - when he asked Harper yet again about his own plan to form a CO-A-LI-TION. Harper now says - I was not really going to form a CO-A-LI-TION - I was just trying to scare the Liberals by having them think I was. Once again - this lie - has become somewhat more palatable with the passage of time.
Do you remember last week? That's when Harper suggested that the opposition parties did not have to FORCE us into an election - no - Harper suggested the other parties could have gone to the Governor General and asked - can we form a CO-A-LI-TION?
The irony of Harper taking lessons from Mulroney is this; Harper exists because Canadians threw Mulroney and his party to the curb. Then like the recyclers Harper is not really fond of - we green Canadians recycled the lot to form the "new" Conservative Party. Then with the likes of Peter MacKay and our own Loyola Hearn they stabbed each other in the back so many times - there was a run on knives - that PC blood flowed out spilling integrity, honesty and trust.
If Harper wants to lie to Canadians - in an attempt to scare them - by suggesting the CO-A-LI-TION already exists - then let me add this; if Harper were ever to form a majority - the Reform Party not the Conservatives - would be running our country. That is something we all should be very afraid of.
Monday, March 14, 2011
Distractions, Games, and Double Standards "Throw Them Out of Office"
Two quick items this morning - that really demonstrate the state of our democracy and governments.
After having been found violating the freedoms and privileges including Bev Oda breaching parliamentary privilege when she provided inconsistent testimony to a Common committee of the House of Commons - the Federal Conservatives - currently our government - claims that these things are just "distractions and games". The Conservatives say instead we have to focus on the economy and jobs.
Let me explain it from this voter's point of view.
Why would I let anybody who has such blatant disregard for the democracy we live in and the rules that separate us from other countries run by despots and social thieves - run the economy? If they do not believe in the truth and do not believe in transparency - why would I believe they will tell me the truth on the economy? In fact I feel exactly the opposite - I believe that they are likely not to tell me the truth on the state of our economy and I believe they are likely to lie or provided misleading information on what they plan to do with the economy.
The extreme right wingers like Harper would have us believe that government needs to get out of our lives as much as possible - yet not only are they in our lives, they are manipulating the truth and not providing us with information on how they plan to spend our tax dollars.
As a Newfoundlander and Labradorian - I can say first hand that Prime Minister Harper lied directly to us when trying to get his government elected to parliament in 2006. That ended up costing our province billions of dollars. Further his MP's like Fabian Manning went against the people he was elected to represent. Manning is now a Senator (unelected) also against Harper's "promises for change".
The next item deals with a story out of the Telegram this weekend.
Canada Revenue highlights $1,000 victory
The Canada Revenue Agency (CRA) released a reminder on filing annual tax returns this week, citing a court case from the west coast of Newfoundland as an example of why not to skip out.
In that case, a resident of Daniel’s Harbour was fined $1,000 after she pleaded guilty to one count under the Income Tax Act, for failing to file her personal income tax return for 2008.
This was the biggest federal agency joke I have ever seen.
Does the rest of Canada remember this story? Excerpts from the Globe and Mail
Former prime minister Brian Mulroney, who received $300,000 in cash from German-Canadian deal maker Karlheinz Schreiber in 1993 and 1994, did not pay taxes on the payments in the years he received the money.
The former prime minister filed a voluntary tax disclosure some time later, The Globe and Mail and CBC's the fifth estate have learned, an option that the Canada Revenue Agency offers for people who have previously filed inaccurate returns and subsequently decide to correct the record. Mr. Mulroney had declined to say when he paid taxes on the cash Mr. Schreiber handed over to him in hotels in Montreal and New York over a 19-month period.
A letter received late last night from an intermediary of Mr. Mulroney's explained that the former prime minister was delayed in paying his taxes because of the “cataclysmic event” that disrupted his life in November, 1995 – the RCMP letter to the government of Switzerland that falsely accused him of a crime.
“As such, it is understandable that until all these matters were resolved – as they eventually were with his total vindication – he could not resume normal functioning and attend to normal day-to-day affairs … and indeed to the point of the finalization of his tax matters with his accountants,” the letter said.
Two of the cash payments given to Mr. Mulroney by Mr. Schreiber, totalling $200,000, were made in 1993. The taxes owing on those payments would have been due by May 2, 1994, 18 months before Mr. Mulroney discovered that the RCMP was investigating him.
The taxes owing on the final $100,000 payment from 1994 would have been due on May 1, 1995, six months before Mr. Mulroney learned about the RCMP investigation.
The response last night said: “He complied with all prevailing Canadian tax law and was entitled to do so in any way he chose and was to his best interest. He – like all of us – is entitled to do so.”
Clearly this example shows the difference between and average Canadians and those privileged to sit in Parliament.
Distractions and games indeed - time for Canadians to stop the games and rid themselves of distractions. Throw Stephen Harper and his players out!
After having been found violating the freedoms and privileges including Bev Oda breaching parliamentary privilege when she provided inconsistent testimony to a Common committee of the House of Commons - the Federal Conservatives - currently our government - claims that these things are just "distractions and games". The Conservatives say instead we have to focus on the economy and jobs.
Let me explain it from this voter's point of view.
Why would I let anybody who has such blatant disregard for the democracy we live in and the rules that separate us from other countries run by despots and social thieves - run the economy? If they do not believe in the truth and do not believe in transparency - why would I believe they will tell me the truth on the economy? In fact I feel exactly the opposite - I believe that they are likely not to tell me the truth on the state of our economy and I believe they are likely to lie or provided misleading information on what they plan to do with the economy.
The extreme right wingers like Harper would have us believe that government needs to get out of our lives as much as possible - yet not only are they in our lives, they are manipulating the truth and not providing us with information on how they plan to spend our tax dollars.
As a Newfoundlander and Labradorian - I can say first hand that Prime Minister Harper lied directly to us when trying to get his government elected to parliament in 2006. That ended up costing our province billions of dollars. Further his MP's like Fabian Manning went against the people he was elected to represent. Manning is now a Senator (unelected) also against Harper's "promises for change".
The next item deals with a story out of the Telegram this weekend.
Canada Revenue highlights $1,000 victory
The Canada Revenue Agency (CRA) released a reminder on filing annual tax returns this week, citing a court case from the west coast of Newfoundland as an example of why not to skip out.
In that case, a resident of Daniel’s Harbour was fined $1,000 after she pleaded guilty to one count under the Income Tax Act, for failing to file her personal income tax return for 2008.
This was the biggest federal agency joke I have ever seen.
Does the rest of Canada remember this story? Excerpts from the Globe and Mail
Former prime minister Brian Mulroney, who received $300,000 in cash from German-Canadian deal maker Karlheinz Schreiber in 1993 and 1994, did not pay taxes on the payments in the years he received the money.
The former prime minister filed a voluntary tax disclosure some time later, The Globe and Mail and CBC's the fifth estate have learned, an option that the Canada Revenue Agency offers for people who have previously filed inaccurate returns and subsequently decide to correct the record. Mr. Mulroney had declined to say when he paid taxes on the cash Mr. Schreiber handed over to him in hotels in Montreal and New York over a 19-month period.
A letter received late last night from an intermediary of Mr. Mulroney's explained that the former prime minister was delayed in paying his taxes because of the “cataclysmic event” that disrupted his life in November, 1995 – the RCMP letter to the government of Switzerland that falsely accused him of a crime.
“As such, it is understandable that until all these matters were resolved – as they eventually were with his total vindication – he could not resume normal functioning and attend to normal day-to-day affairs … and indeed to the point of the finalization of his tax matters with his accountants,” the letter said.
Two of the cash payments given to Mr. Mulroney by Mr. Schreiber, totalling $200,000, were made in 1993. The taxes owing on those payments would have been due by May 2, 1994, 18 months before Mr. Mulroney discovered that the RCMP was investigating him.
The taxes owing on the final $100,000 payment from 1994 would have been due on May 1, 1995, six months before Mr. Mulroney learned about the RCMP investigation.
The response last night said: “He complied with all prevailing Canadian tax law and was entitled to do so in any way he chose and was to his best interest. He – like all of us – is entitled to do so.”
Clearly this example shows the difference between and average Canadians and those privileged to sit in Parliament.
Distractions and games indeed - time for Canadians to stop the games and rid themselves of distractions. Throw Stephen Harper and his players out!
Friday, February 11, 2011
Lifting the Cone of Silence - Let the debate begin!
I assume everybody remembers the "we got it we got it" performance of Premier Danny Williams at the St. John's Airport right? Picture below property of CBC
Okay - let's give the Premier that credit. He did what the previous Liberal provincial governments did not have the guts to do.
That was 2 billion dollars right?
Were there restrictions placed on what the money could be used for?
Was that payment directed by Ottawa to be used for debt repayment of one sort or another?
Did we use that money to partially fund - unfunded pension liabilities?
When that 2 billion dollars was used on refunding pensions (invested) did we lose a chunk of it when the markets collapsed? If so how much did we lose?
If the money were used for NALCOR - then we would be able to finance our project on the Lower Churchill right?
Are we now going cap in hand to Ottawa to get a guarantee? Why?
After receiving the 2 billion from Paul Martin did we then proceed to lose 10 billion from Stephen Harper?
Premier Danny then proclaimed the ABC campaign to punish Harper right?
What was the ultimate punishment?
Where is Loyola Hearn now? What job is he holding? Do you feel he has been punished?
Where is Fabian Manning now? Do you think he has been punished?
Who is the Federal Minister for Newfoundland and Labrador? Have we been punished?
Did Danny accomplish anything from Stephen Harper? Did Danny finish the job?
Each of these questions will have answers one by one - here on Sue's Blog.
Now the biggest questions for Danny Williams - why did you attempt to give away the Lower Churchill - then leave? Why was Kathy Dunderdale chosen by you to replace you? Did you dissuade any individual either directly or indirectly from running for the leadership? Are you or anybody on behalf of you still advising Kathy Dunderdale?
Answers coming one by one.
Why is this province under a cone of silence? Why is our media focused on Brad Cabana, carnage, and the courts? Why are critical questions not being asked by our media?
What about the tobacco suit?
What about any past staffers? Where are they?
What about the fibre optic fiasco?
Answers coming one by one.
Who has major shares in Emera? Who is driving the Muskrat Falls deal? Why is the public not involved? Why will our rates go up? Why are we shipping power out? Why do the PC MHA's not believe we will need the power?
Answers coming one by one.
Make no mistake - this is for the record - for in the off chance this project proceeds the children of tomorrow will know - who is responsible for the deeds of today.
Solid Gold piece of work.
That was 2 billion dollars right?
Were there restrictions placed on what the money could be used for?
Was that payment directed by Ottawa to be used for debt repayment of one sort or another?
Did we use that money to partially fund - unfunded pension liabilities?
When that 2 billion dollars was used on refunding pensions (invested) did we lose a chunk of it when the markets collapsed? If so how much did we lose?
If the money were used for NALCOR - then we would be able to finance our project on the Lower Churchill right?
Are we now going cap in hand to Ottawa to get a guarantee? Why?
After receiving the 2 billion from Paul Martin did we then proceed to lose 10 billion from Stephen Harper?
Premier Danny then proclaimed the ABC campaign to punish Harper right?
What was the ultimate punishment?
Where is Loyola Hearn now? What job is he holding? Do you feel he has been punished?
Where is Fabian Manning now? Do you think he has been punished?
Who is the Federal Minister for Newfoundland and Labrador? Have we been punished?
Did Danny accomplish anything from Stephen Harper? Did Danny finish the job?
Each of these questions will have answers one by one - here on Sue's Blog.
Now the biggest questions for Danny Williams - why did you attempt to give away the Lower Churchill - then leave? Why was Kathy Dunderdale chosen by you to replace you? Did you dissuade any individual either directly or indirectly from running for the leadership? Are you or anybody on behalf of you still advising Kathy Dunderdale?
Answers coming one by one.
Why is this province under a cone of silence? Why is our media focused on Brad Cabana, carnage, and the courts? Why are critical questions not being asked by our media?
What about the tobacco suit?
What about any past staffers? Where are they?
What about the fibre optic fiasco?
Answers coming one by one.
Who has major shares in Emera? Who is driving the Muskrat Falls deal? Why is the public not involved? Why will our rates go up? Why are we shipping power out? Why do the PC MHA's not believe we will need the power?
Answers coming one by one.
Make no mistake - this is for the record - for in the off chance this project proceeds the children of tomorrow will know - who is responsible for the deeds of today.
Solid Gold piece of work.
Ottawa will give Loan Guarantee on Lower Churchill
Holding our collective breath? Ottawa will give a loan guarantee on the Lower Churchill development because Nova Scotia (Emera) therefore Peter Mackay wants our power for their own gain.
Imagine the headlines Nova Scotia MP and substitute ABC Minister for Newfoundland and Labrador convinces his boss Stephen Harper that this project is good for Canadian Unity and a "green" project to boot.
This proposed project is "green" alright - if we allow it to happen.
This will be another "pull the wool over the trusting eyes of Newfoundlanders and Labradorians" moment.
If you were a Nova Scotian and you could get security of energy supply from a renewable and have Newfoundlanders and Labradorians pay for it - what would you think?
I predict an escalator bound Kathy Dunderdale waving her arms in the air saying you know "we got it -we got it".
This means much more to Danny (passionate Newfoundlander and Labradorian) Williams than a legacy - we just need to figure out what is driving this Solid Gold idea.
Canada has us believing we are a "have" province and they used Williams to deliver their message. Sue's Blog will post something on this later today.
Now for the cynics that think Quebec might block it - nah - I predict the takeover of Emera will follow shortly thereafter meaning we will be completely controlled by Hydro-Quebec and those fortunate Emera stockholders will experience the thrill of a flip - like when Danny flipped Cable Atlantic or when Dean flipped Persona.
Imagine the headlines Nova Scotia MP and substitute ABC Minister for Newfoundland and Labrador convinces his boss Stephen Harper that this project is good for Canadian Unity and a "green" project to boot.
This proposed project is "green" alright - if we allow it to happen.
This will be another "pull the wool over the trusting eyes of Newfoundlanders and Labradorians" moment.
If you were a Nova Scotian and you could get security of energy supply from a renewable and have Newfoundlanders and Labradorians pay for it - what would you think?
I predict an escalator bound Kathy Dunderdale waving her arms in the air saying you know "we got it -we got it".
This means much more to Danny (passionate Newfoundlander and Labradorian) Williams than a legacy - we just need to figure out what is driving this Solid Gold idea.
Canada has us believing we are a "have" province and they used Williams to deliver their message. Sue's Blog will post something on this later today.
Now for the cynics that think Quebec might block it - nah - I predict the takeover of Emera will follow shortly thereafter meaning we will be completely controlled by Hydro-Quebec and those fortunate Emera stockholders will experience the thrill of a flip - like when Danny flipped Cable Atlantic or when Dean flipped Persona.
Tuesday, February 08, 2011
Super Bowl Syndrome - a state of mindlessness - and the Lower Churchill?
Of one thing I can be sure - despite the economic woes of the United States or the plight of the fishery and communities in Newfoundland and Labrador - grown men passing a ballie and grunting while hitting each other chest to chest - will always take precedence.
In Canada or Newfoundland and Labrador that may be replaced by Sydney Crosbie taking a piece of wood and albeit - skillfully - guiding a rubber disc into a net .
Somehow - the willingness to change ones schedule - skip an important anniversary or birthday - ignore anything else going on around amazes me - one will find a way to watch their "favorite" "athletes".
Most of these same people - a good chunk of the population - will not make the same effort to vote, attend a public debate on critical public issues, enter into the public fray of discussion, and/or be actively concerned that their children may not have a future in this province.
I can assure you that there are as many people or more willing to go to bat for their "favorite" hockey player and contact Don (clown) Cherry rather than go to bat for a pediatrician who may save a child's life.
Example: How many people made sure to watch the Super Bowl commercials to the point of being well-versed in them versus the number of people who read the Auditor General's Report or the Provincial or Federal Budgets?
How many people know more about the biography of Sydney or another "favorite" "athlete" versus the biographies of candidates seeking election in their district?
How many people would make sure they got out to see their favorite musician (in from the States or Upper Canada) or Bobby Orr etc, despite a snowstorm versus how many would use the snow as an excuse to not get to the polls?
57 million viewers watched the presidential debate 2008 versus 111 million watched the Super Bowl this weekend.
An estimated 59.1 per cent of Canadians cast votes in 2008 general election — a figure that appears to be a record low in the history of Confederation. Newfoundland and Labrador was at 48.1 per cent for that election.
What happens when a soap opera is preempted for an important political statement? Ask NTV!
We complain about a surgeon's salary - responsible to save the lives of relatives - while we are disgusted when our "favorite" "athlete" is traded after unsuccessful contract talks.
Average Salary of a NHL Hockey Player - 2008 estimates $1,906,793
Average Salary Cardiac Surgeon - 2010 estimates $ 275,000
Average Salary of a NFL Football Player - 2009 estimates $1,700,000
Average Median Salary of Canadian Soldiers - 2002 estimates $50,000
To make matters worse - the "hero's" of football, basketball, etc have real issues with anger management, drugs, alcohol, cheating.
I can certainly conclude that Sydney Crosby's concussion has received much more media attention than significant homelessness issues during the same time. Why? Because that is what we demand. Kate (the princess to be) will dominate the news from here to wedding day - every single detail will be examined and reported by panels of journalists in a way that I could only hope to see the Senate or Equalization examined. Why? Because this is what we demand.
While we watch populations of people around the world - fighting hard to get a democratic system - we will sleepwalk our way out of one. Democracy requires participation and it is not the responsibility of a few people - it is not the job of a few politicians - it is not make-work for sign manufacturers or volunteer canvassers or the lucrative payday for PR firms - it does not belong to corporations but does belong to you and me (despite how our politicians behave) - it is not a word but it is state of who we are and what we stand for.
We must take control of the following issues:
The Fishery
The Lower Churchill
The Forestry
Mining/Oil and Gas
Employment
Social Issues (Education, Health, Poverty, Crime, Child Advocacy and Protection, Housing)
Outmigration
Corporate Influence
Seniors Pensions
It must be our priority over the coming months if we are to secure our childrens' future.
Partisanship must stop and we must demand that government stop intimidating those who ask questions and criticize policies.
We must seek the best people to elect to public office and head up government agencies - not people chosen for us by an elite party club or through rewarding partisan loyalty.
Who do you think is ultimately responsible for decisions we are making for the children of today and generations to come?
The Super Bowl Syndrome - the puppet masters of politicians depend on it!
oops I interrupt this blog for an important announcement from your beer company...
In Canada or Newfoundland and Labrador that may be replaced by Sydney Crosbie taking a piece of wood and albeit - skillfully - guiding a rubber disc into a net .
Somehow - the willingness to change ones schedule - skip an important anniversary or birthday - ignore anything else going on around amazes me - one will find a way to watch their "favorite" "athletes".
Most of these same people - a good chunk of the population - will not make the same effort to vote, attend a public debate on critical public issues, enter into the public fray of discussion, and/or be actively concerned that their children may not have a future in this province.
I can assure you that there are as many people or more willing to go to bat for their "favorite" hockey player and contact Don (clown) Cherry rather than go to bat for a pediatrician who may save a child's life.
Example: How many people made sure to watch the Super Bowl commercials to the point of being well-versed in them versus the number of people who read the Auditor General's Report or the Provincial or Federal Budgets?
How many people know more about the biography of Sydney or another "favorite" "athlete" versus the biographies of candidates seeking election in their district?
How many people would make sure they got out to see their favorite musician (in from the States or Upper Canada) or Bobby Orr etc, despite a snowstorm versus how many would use the snow as an excuse to not get to the polls?
57 million viewers watched the presidential debate 2008 versus 111 million watched the Super Bowl this weekend.
An estimated 59.1 per cent of Canadians cast votes in 2008 general election — a figure that appears to be a record low in the history of Confederation. Newfoundland and Labrador was at 48.1 per cent for that election.
What happens when a soap opera is preempted for an important political statement? Ask NTV!
We complain about a surgeon's salary - responsible to save the lives of relatives - while we are disgusted when our "favorite" "athlete" is traded after unsuccessful contract talks.
Average Salary of a NHL Hockey Player - 2008 estimates $1,906,793
Average Salary Cardiac Surgeon - 2010 estimates $ 275,000
Average Salary of a NFL Football Player - 2009 estimates $1,700,000
Average Median Salary of Canadian Soldiers - 2002 estimates $50,000
To make matters worse - the "hero's" of football, basketball, etc have real issues with anger management, drugs, alcohol, cheating.
I can certainly conclude that Sydney Crosby's concussion has received much more media attention than significant homelessness issues during the same time. Why? Because that is what we demand. Kate (the princess to be) will dominate the news from here to wedding day - every single detail will be examined and reported by panels of journalists in a way that I could only hope to see the Senate or Equalization examined. Why? Because this is what we demand.
While we watch populations of people around the world - fighting hard to get a democratic system - we will sleepwalk our way out of one. Democracy requires participation and it is not the responsibility of a few people - it is not the job of a few politicians - it is not make-work for sign manufacturers or volunteer canvassers or the lucrative payday for PR firms - it does not belong to corporations but does belong to you and me (despite how our politicians behave) - it is not a word but it is state of who we are and what we stand for.
We must take control of the following issues:
The Fishery
The Lower Churchill
The Forestry
Mining/Oil and Gas
Employment
Social Issues (Education, Health, Poverty, Crime, Child Advocacy and Protection, Housing)
Outmigration
Corporate Influence
Seniors Pensions
It must be our priority over the coming months if we are to secure our childrens' future.
Partisanship must stop and we must demand that government stop intimidating those who ask questions and criticize policies.
We must seek the best people to elect to public office and head up government agencies - not people chosen for us by an elite party club or through rewarding partisan loyalty.
Who do you think is ultimately responsible for decisions we are making for the children of today and generations to come?
The Super Bowl Syndrome - the puppet masters of politicians depend on it!
oops I interrupt this blog for an important announcement from your beer company...
Monday, January 22, 2007
Tony Clement Responds to First the Navy then the Air Force
I am happy to see that at least the Conservative MP's are listening and Minister's or their staff - taking the time to respond. That would be 100% better than our Liberal members or NDP caucus.
I hope this post wakes them all up - and they start to understand that Canadians want to be heard - and expect the people they employ to manage the country live up to the expectations they create during election campaigns.
In either case - here is the response from the Minister's Office:
------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Dear Ms. Kelland-Dyer,
Your Conservative government is the first government in over a decade to take sovereignty seriously, as promised by Mr. Harper.
This government has already begun the massive investment in security that Mr. Harper spoke about. For example, The Conservatives' budget in 2006 allocated $1.1 billion to the Canadian military over two years, as part of $5.3 billion in funding coming over the next five years.
As well, during the last week of June 2006, Prime Minister Stephen Harper announced $15 billion in spending on military vehicles, including transport planes, heavy-lift helicopters, troop carrier ships and trucks. The spending will be spread out over several years.
Further, to enhance security of our borders and of our businesses, the following excerpt:
CanWest News Service
Published: Friday, January 12, 2007
WINDSOR, Ont. — Public Safety Minister Stockwell Day unveiled his government’s $400-million commitment for new border security initiatives Friday, which include an electronic cargo manifest program designed to help speed up the movement of trucks across the border.
The “e-manifest” system will see driver and cargo paperwork sent in advance to Canada’s border guards so the information can be better screened for potential high-risk shipments. Such documents today are often not seen by Canada’s customs officers until a shipment arrives in front of them at the border.
“The government is committed to keeping Canada safe, but at the same time ensuring business and trade can move smoothly across the border,” said Day.
The program will be designed by the business and transportation industries. An initial meeting between the parties is scheduled Jan. 18.
Day also announced Friday a $24-million investment for emergency co-ordination planning between Canadian and U.S. authorities, emergency responders and business to avoid the border trade traffic gridlock that occurred following the Sept. 11, 2001, terrorist attacks.
The government will also spend $11.6 million for its Partners in Protection program that sees Canada Border Services Agency authorities assess the strength of security systems of private companies and shippers, then offer tips to strengthen it.
As you can see from the above, unlike previous governments, this Conservative government intends to meet its commitments to our sovereignty and to the safety of Canadians. I hope that this explanation is what you are looking for.
Sincerely,
David J. Lowe
Chief Parliamentary Assistant to
Tony Clement, P.C., M.P.
------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Here is my Response Back:
Thank you for taking the time to respond. I voted Conservative and supported Loyola Hearn at the last election.
At that time - a significant issue for Newfoundlanders and Labradorians was Custodial Management of the Nose and Tail of the Grand Banks and the Flemish Cap. Please take the opportunity to view the responses made my Minister Hearn to the St. John's Board of Trade during the last federal campaign. (I will attach)
It will not come as a surprise to you that we are disappointed with Loyola Hearn's broken promise.
I think it's important to note that Newfoundland and Labrador has suffered a loss of over 50,000 people in a half million population because of the fisheries collapse. (federally managed) The decimation of our rural communities has continued since the early nineties when a fishery moratorium was called. These stocks were predicted to recover within 10 years. This has not happened.
You must understand that Newfoundland and Labrador is the East Coast of our country yet the federal presence in this province - as it relates to security and sovereignty - does not reflect our geographic location.
The fact remains that underfunding occurred in this critical area and I expect action not platitudes - so we may find our rightful place in our country.
Best Regards,
Sue Kelland-Dyer
If you have any other material you may find relevant to Newfoundlanders and Labradorians please feel free to send it along and I will post it.
Board of Trade Link
Let me know what you think of the Response and I will post to the site...
By the way when the other two Parties (national) in the HOC get a chance - please address this issue - tell us what you would do differently.
I hope this post wakes them all up - and they start to understand that Canadians want to be heard - and expect the people they employ to manage the country live up to the expectations they create during election campaigns.
In either case - here is the response from the Minister's Office:
------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Dear Ms. Kelland-Dyer,
Your Conservative government is the first government in over a decade to take sovereignty seriously, as promised by Mr. Harper.
This government has already begun the massive investment in security that Mr. Harper spoke about. For example, The Conservatives' budget in 2006 allocated $1.1 billion to the Canadian military over two years, as part of $5.3 billion in funding coming over the next five years.
As well, during the last week of June 2006, Prime Minister Stephen Harper announced $15 billion in spending on military vehicles, including transport planes, heavy-lift helicopters, troop carrier ships and trucks. The spending will be spread out over several years.
Further, to enhance security of our borders and of our businesses, the following excerpt:
CanWest News Service
Published: Friday, January 12, 2007
WINDSOR, Ont. — Public Safety Minister Stockwell Day unveiled his government’s $400-million commitment for new border security initiatives Friday, which include an electronic cargo manifest program designed to help speed up the movement of trucks across the border.
The “e-manifest” system will see driver and cargo paperwork sent in advance to Canada’s border guards so the information can be better screened for potential high-risk shipments. Such documents today are often not seen by Canada’s customs officers until a shipment arrives in front of them at the border.
“The government is committed to keeping Canada safe, but at the same time ensuring business and trade can move smoothly across the border,” said Day.
The program will be designed by the business and transportation industries. An initial meeting between the parties is scheduled Jan. 18.
Day also announced Friday a $24-million investment for emergency co-ordination planning between Canadian and U.S. authorities, emergency responders and business to avoid the border trade traffic gridlock that occurred following the Sept. 11, 2001, terrorist attacks.
The government will also spend $11.6 million for its Partners in Protection program that sees Canada Border Services Agency authorities assess the strength of security systems of private companies and shippers, then offer tips to strengthen it.
As you can see from the above, unlike previous governments, this Conservative government intends to meet its commitments to our sovereignty and to the safety of Canadians. I hope that this explanation is what you are looking for.
Sincerely,
David J. Lowe
Chief Parliamentary Assistant to
Tony Clement, P.C., M.P.
------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Here is my Response Back:
Thank you for taking the time to respond. I voted Conservative and supported Loyola Hearn at the last election.
At that time - a significant issue for Newfoundlanders and Labradorians was Custodial Management of the Nose and Tail of the Grand Banks and the Flemish Cap. Please take the opportunity to view the responses made my Minister Hearn to the St. John's Board of Trade during the last federal campaign. (I will attach)
It will not come as a surprise to you that we are disappointed with Loyola Hearn's broken promise.
I think it's important to note that Newfoundland and Labrador has suffered a loss of over 50,000 people in a half million population because of the fisheries collapse. (federally managed) The decimation of our rural communities has continued since the early nineties when a fishery moratorium was called. These stocks were predicted to recover within 10 years. This has not happened.
You must understand that Newfoundland and Labrador is the East Coast of our country yet the federal presence in this province - as it relates to security and sovereignty - does not reflect our geographic location.
The fact remains that underfunding occurred in this critical area and I expect action not platitudes - so we may find our rightful place in our country.
Best Regards,
Sue Kelland-Dyer
If you have any other material you may find relevant to Newfoundlanders and Labradorians please feel free to send it along and I will post it.
Board of Trade Link
Let me know what you think of the Response and I will post to the site...
By the way when the other two Parties (national) in the HOC get a chance - please address this issue - tell us what you would do differently.
First the Navy - then the Air Force
Excuse me - but didn't Stephen Harper campaign on the issue of protecting our sovereignty?
Anybody wishing to cause any harm either militarily or economically is going to come by air - by water - or ground transport. So far we know that our Navy ran out of money and missed a sovereignty mission in the North Atlantic - we also know the Air Force has to scramble to find cash for air surveillance - and for all we know the ground border patrol is having trouble as well.
What exactly are you doing Prime Minister or do you know? What message to we send to the foreign plunderers of the fish stocks in our waters when they can READ that we have run out of money for surveillance?
First the federal government mismanage our groundfish - in some cases to near extinction - and now you are letting the world know we cannot protect what we have left. What exactly are we demonstrating to Afghanistan?
Loyola - No wonder you broke your promise to take custodial control of the Grand Banks and Flemish Cap - Imagine what a joke that would have been. If an infected cow wanders down south carrying mad cow disease - lookout! If the pirates of the seas continue to rape the future of rural Newfoundland and Labrador - what can we expect from our nation? Nothing - pure and simple - plunder away.
What do we hear from our federal members? Nothing - Pure and Simple
Anybody wishing to cause any harm either militarily or economically is going to come by air - by water - or ground transport. So far we know that our Navy ran out of money and missed a sovereignty mission in the North Atlantic - we also know the Air Force has to scramble to find cash for air surveillance - and for all we know the ground border patrol is having trouble as well.
What exactly are you doing Prime Minister or do you know? What message to we send to the foreign plunderers of the fish stocks in our waters when they can READ that we have run out of money for surveillance?
First the federal government mismanage our groundfish - in some cases to near extinction - and now you are letting the world know we cannot protect what we have left. What exactly are we demonstrating to Afghanistan?
Loyola - No wonder you broke your promise to take custodial control of the Grand Banks and Flemish Cap - Imagine what a joke that would have been. If an infected cow wanders down south carrying mad cow disease - lookout! If the pirates of the seas continue to rape the future of rural Newfoundland and Labrador - what can we expect from our nation? Nothing - pure and simple - plunder away.
What do we hear from our federal members? Nothing - Pure and Simple
Friday, January 19, 2007
Quebec Quebec Quebec Quebec Quebec
Quebec Quebec and there's no end in sight.
I don't know about the rest of the country but we must be really getting annoyed here in Newfoundland and Labrador. While thousands of people get in line at a recent job-fair to move away from our province - while the Government of Canada runs out of money for naval fisheries patrol - while federal offices shut down and further erosion of federal jobs - the Accord benefits hanging in limbo - the fisheries falling apart - all we hear about is the boost - boost - boost for Quebec.
Okay this week we learn the upwardly mobile equalization is going to?????
Quebec!!!
This quote from a story in the Globe and Mail Online
Many provincial leaders fear that Mr. Harper will resolve the thorny question of how to divide Ottawa's riches by pleasing Quebec Premier Jean Charest because that would offer the surest way of solidifying a Conservative breakthrough in the next federal election.
Their fears were confirmed when the provinces received a letter this week from federal Finance Minister Jim Flaherty saying Quebec will see its equalization payments soar by nearly $1-billion to $6.46-billion in 2007-2008. At the same time, the other five provinces that receive equalization payments will see a significant reduction.
-----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Now - another story that demonstrates the weakness of our MP's - the weakness of the federation - and the weakness of our Prime Minister.
You may remember that the federal government ordered it's first military cargo aircraft from Boeing - the purchase is worth 3.4 billion dollars (1/3 of the cost to develop the Lower Churchill).
As the G&M reports Boeing had to guarantee certain economic benefits to Canada.
To obtain the contract, U.S.-based Boeing Co. has to pledge to buy supplies and services worth the exact value of the purchase in Canada. This package of regional benefits can be spent directly to build or maintain the Boeing C-17s, or any other current and future Boeing aircraft.
Where's the problem? Well Quebec's unelected Senator Michael Fortier - who just happens to be the Public Works Minister (the fellow who signs the contract) is fighting hard for Quebec to get 60% of the Canadian benefits - and the racket may jeopardize the delivery of the aircraft as well as the price.
The Globe reports that:
Under the current proposal, Ontario would get about one-third of the benefits, while the western provinces would share 20 per cent. The eastern provinces stand to get slightly less than 10 per cent, with the remaining portion still to be allocated.
Well Quebec wants 60% because they already have that % of the market. Well then let's start getting in on the action - our dollars and federal contracts for fisheries - airspace - coastline - ships - boats - nickel - oil - gas - hydropower - and everything else the rest of Canada sucks out of us for processing - should be astronomical.
As the Globe goes on to say:
The lobbying over regional benefits will not end with the C-17 negotiations. The government is planning to purchase $4.7-billion in Chinook helicopters from Boeing and $5-billion in Hercules C130J aircraft from Lockheed-Martin this year.
Now let's take the time to congratulate the unelected Quebec Minister of Parliament - appointed by Mr. Democracy himself the PM - and congratulate Jean Charest for sticking up for - bullying - threatening - anybody they can to develop Quebec.
If you are interested here's the breakdown of the Canadian Aerospace Industry
The approximate share of Canada's $22-billion aerospace industry, by economic region:
Western Canada: 10%
Atlantic Canada: 5%
Quebec: 55%
Ontario: 30%
Source: Industry Canada
We can't do any of this right?
What next Harper? What do you propose to do next to keep the Quebec voter happy?
The Newfoundland and Labrador MP's should be ashamed of themselves. The feds could not find a few million for the naval/fisheries patrol - and are trying their best to ignore our fish crisis and diminish our ability to manage offshore oil and gas. This is yet another reason why not 1 MW leaves Labrador for the rest of Canada. Suck on somebody Else's teat for awhile.
I don't know about the rest of the country but we must be really getting annoyed here in Newfoundland and Labrador. While thousands of people get in line at a recent job-fair to move away from our province - while the Government of Canada runs out of money for naval fisheries patrol - while federal offices shut down and further erosion of federal jobs - the Accord benefits hanging in limbo - the fisheries falling apart - all we hear about is the boost - boost - boost for Quebec.
Okay this week we learn the upwardly mobile equalization is going to?????
Quebec!!!
This quote from a story in the Globe and Mail Online
Many provincial leaders fear that Mr. Harper will resolve the thorny question of how to divide Ottawa's riches by pleasing Quebec Premier Jean Charest because that would offer the surest way of solidifying a Conservative breakthrough in the next federal election.
Their fears were confirmed when the provinces received a letter this week from federal Finance Minister Jim Flaherty saying Quebec will see its equalization payments soar by nearly $1-billion to $6.46-billion in 2007-2008. At the same time, the other five provinces that receive equalization payments will see a significant reduction.
-----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Now - another story that demonstrates the weakness of our MP's - the weakness of the federation - and the weakness of our Prime Minister.
You may remember that the federal government ordered it's first military cargo aircraft from Boeing - the purchase is worth 3.4 billion dollars (1/3 of the cost to develop the Lower Churchill).
As the G&M reports Boeing had to guarantee certain economic benefits to Canada.
To obtain the contract, U.S.-based Boeing Co. has to pledge to buy supplies and services worth the exact value of the purchase in Canada. This package of regional benefits can be spent directly to build or maintain the Boeing C-17s, or any other current and future Boeing aircraft.
Where's the problem? Well Quebec's unelected Senator Michael Fortier - who just happens to be the Public Works Minister (the fellow who signs the contract) is fighting hard for Quebec to get 60% of the Canadian benefits - and the racket may jeopardize the delivery of the aircraft as well as the price.
The Globe reports that:
Under the current proposal, Ontario would get about one-third of the benefits, while the western provinces would share 20 per cent. The eastern provinces stand to get slightly less than 10 per cent, with the remaining portion still to be allocated.
Well Quebec wants 60% because they already have that % of the market. Well then let's start getting in on the action - our dollars and federal contracts for fisheries - airspace - coastline - ships - boats - nickel - oil - gas - hydropower - and everything else the rest of Canada sucks out of us for processing - should be astronomical.
As the Globe goes on to say:
The lobbying over regional benefits will not end with the C-17 negotiations. The government is planning to purchase $4.7-billion in Chinook helicopters from Boeing and $5-billion in Hercules C130J aircraft from Lockheed-Martin this year.
Now let's take the time to congratulate the unelected Quebec Minister of Parliament - appointed by Mr. Democracy himself the PM - and congratulate Jean Charest for sticking up for - bullying - threatening - anybody they can to develop Quebec.
If you are interested here's the breakdown of the Canadian Aerospace Industry
The approximate share of Canada's $22-billion aerospace industry, by economic region:
Western Canada: 10%
Atlantic Canada: 5%
Quebec: 55%
Ontario: 30%
Source: Industry Canada
We can't do any of this right?
What next Harper? What do you propose to do next to keep the Quebec voter happy?
The Newfoundland and Labrador MP's should be ashamed of themselves. The feds could not find a few million for the naval/fisheries patrol - and are trying their best to ignore our fish crisis and diminish our ability to manage offshore oil and gas. This is yet another reason why not 1 MW leaves Labrador for the rest of Canada. Suck on somebody Else's teat for awhile.
Thursday, January 18, 2007
If Harper Breaks this Promise take the Flag down for Good
Well readers and contributors to Sue's Blog - if you can dedicate some of your time to reading a post - let it be this one.
Let's start with the letter of promises Stephen Harper gave to Danny Williams during the last federal election campaign.
VIEW THE LETTER HERE
In this letter you will notice a section which addesses the question of Equalization. Stephen Harper clearly states that non-renewable natural resource revenues will be reomoved from the formula. He also states that no province will be adversely affected by changes to the equalization formula.
When Danny signed the additional agreement under the Atlantic Accord he failed to protect against changes to the equalization formula. This was clearly an error in otherwise a tremendous accomplishment.
Equalization is a stand-alone federally controlled program which is reviewed every four years and Danny knew that changes were imminant. On that basis - somebody let him down on the wording of the agreement or he simply capitulated to that wording in order to claim victory.
During the course of negotiations questions were raised by members of the public and subsequently by the Opposition regarding concerns that changes to equalization in the future could could diminish or even eliminate the gains that would be made.
The Premier acknowledged this concern - as did his Minister of Finance - Loyola Sullivan - and claimed that this obstacle would be overcome before a deal was signed.
When he rode down the esculator to hundreds or thousands of cheering fans - it was clear the Stanley Cup had arrived. The Premier laced up the skates - took it to the Canadians and achieved 100%.
He did not tell you the whole truth - and in that he either lied or was incompetant. What he achieved was a 100% position that could be altered by any PM in the future during equalization review.
So the Premier knows the flaw is there - but he would rather place the emphasis of commitment on Harper. In fact he nor we would have to be concerned right now about the oil revenues if he had done the job.
He is now hanging his helmet on the promise made by Harper that no province would be adversely affected by changes to the equalization formula. Harper for his part can cause the additional agreement gains to be diminished and still claim that our province is not adversely affected by changes to Equalization. Harper - you see - is treating the equalization program as distinct and seperate from the Atlantic Accord & the new Additional Agreement. Technically he is correct but morally and ethically he is void - as he knows that the rumoured changes would impact Newfoundland and Labrador through the change in formula (indirectly) as equalization is one component of three used in the calculation of our Additional Agreement benefits.
Having said all of that - the Premier should concern himself with the ultimate promise made by Harper to Newfoundland and Labrador - in fact all of Canada - that is to remove non-renewable natural resource revenues from the formula. If he were to live up to that commitment - the Additional Agreement would not even be necessary. Further it would remove the significant revenues we receive now from mineral resources and particularly Voisey's Bay.
Stephen Harper will get away with breaking this promise - because Quebec does not want it and Ontario does not care (as long as they get their bit) - unless Danny is a true fighting Newfoudlander and Labradorian and takes the PM on if he breaks this crucial commitment. But that is going to take real guts - not the smart-mouthed hockey enforcer that thrills the fans by throwing off the gloves and hauling up the sleeves on his 1949 Jersey. Not the same tactics used with Abitibi or the Public Service Unions or FPI (all show - but no go). No he needs to treat Harper like he treats the oil giants. He needs to expose this PM as a traitor to his country - a sell-out of his stated economic principles - the ones he esposed for decades.
Harper is a political prostitute. He abandoned all ideology before he sat his arse on the PM's chair for the first time. He is being managed by political handlers (most important of which is Mulrooney) and is being told what is and who are important to maintain government.
First let me repeat that equalization does not require agreement by one or ten provinces of Canada - it is a federal unilateral program. Politically speaking it requires only Quebec - Ontario - and to a lesser degree Alberta and BC.
When Harper made the promise to remove non-renewables from the formula - he was supported by BC - Alberta - Saskatchewan - Ontario - and Newfoundland and Labrador and was rejected by Manitoba - Quebec - PEI - New Brunswick - and Nova Scotia. It was 5 to 5.
What happened since is the height of ethically bankrupt politicians. He had two ways to go. To break the impasse between provinces he could have found a solution to bring more support to the promise of removal. This would have taken some brains - dedication - and creativity. It would appear - if the rumours are true - that he chose instead the tried and true political route of "just give Quebec and Ontario what they want". Make no mistake this hurts us. This is where we should make our stand and a final stand at that if we can't hold him to this promise.
Quebec was easy - they did not want non-renewables removed - Ontario was just as easy if Harper promised them a new bag of money. Alberta supported the principle but does not rely on it - as they are not a recipient province.
Face to face - eyeball - to eyeball Harper guaranteed me that non-renewable natural resource revenues would be removed. It was and is based on solid economic policy which recognizes that future generations would not have direct benefit from an exhausted non-renewable resource - so at the very least the direct revenues from those resources when exploited should remain in the Provinces for infrastructure or a "heritage fund" or some other benefit that would accrue to our children and grand-children.
If the PM breaks this promise the flag should come down and never go up again - because Canada (Ontario and Quebec) will have screwed our people again.
That Randy Simms is not a myth.
Let's start with the letter of promises Stephen Harper gave to Danny Williams during the last federal election campaign.
VIEW THE LETTER HERE
In this letter you will notice a section which addesses the question of Equalization. Stephen Harper clearly states that non-renewable natural resource revenues will be reomoved from the formula. He also states that no province will be adversely affected by changes to the equalization formula.
When Danny signed the additional agreement under the Atlantic Accord he failed to protect against changes to the equalization formula. This was clearly an error in otherwise a tremendous accomplishment.
Equalization is a stand-alone federally controlled program which is reviewed every four years and Danny knew that changes were imminant. On that basis - somebody let him down on the wording of the agreement or he simply capitulated to that wording in order to claim victory.
During the course of negotiations questions were raised by members of the public and subsequently by the Opposition regarding concerns that changes to equalization in the future could could diminish or even eliminate the gains that would be made.
The Premier acknowledged this concern - as did his Minister of Finance - Loyola Sullivan - and claimed that this obstacle would be overcome before a deal was signed.
When he rode down the esculator to hundreds or thousands of cheering fans - it was clear the Stanley Cup had arrived. The Premier laced up the skates - took it to the Canadians and achieved 100%.
He did not tell you the whole truth - and in that he either lied or was incompetant. What he achieved was a 100% position that could be altered by any PM in the future during equalization review.
So the Premier knows the flaw is there - but he would rather place the emphasis of commitment on Harper. In fact he nor we would have to be concerned right now about the oil revenues if he had done the job.
He is now hanging his helmet on the promise made by Harper that no province would be adversely affected by changes to the equalization formula. Harper for his part can cause the additional agreement gains to be diminished and still claim that our province is not adversely affected by changes to Equalization. Harper - you see - is treating the equalization program as distinct and seperate from the Atlantic Accord & the new Additional Agreement. Technically he is correct but morally and ethically he is void - as he knows that the rumoured changes would impact Newfoundland and Labrador through the change in formula (indirectly) as equalization is one component of three used in the calculation of our Additional Agreement benefits.
Having said all of that - the Premier should concern himself with the ultimate promise made by Harper to Newfoundland and Labrador - in fact all of Canada - that is to remove non-renewable natural resource revenues from the formula. If he were to live up to that commitment - the Additional Agreement would not even be necessary. Further it would remove the significant revenues we receive now from mineral resources and particularly Voisey's Bay.
Stephen Harper will get away with breaking this promise - because Quebec does not want it and Ontario does not care (as long as they get their bit) - unless Danny is a true fighting Newfoudlander and Labradorian and takes the PM on if he breaks this crucial commitment. But that is going to take real guts - not the smart-mouthed hockey enforcer that thrills the fans by throwing off the gloves and hauling up the sleeves on his 1949 Jersey. Not the same tactics used with Abitibi or the Public Service Unions or FPI (all show - but no go). No he needs to treat Harper like he treats the oil giants. He needs to expose this PM as a traitor to his country - a sell-out of his stated economic principles - the ones he esposed for decades.
Harper is a political prostitute. He abandoned all ideology before he sat his arse on the PM's chair for the first time. He is being managed by political handlers (most important of which is Mulrooney) and is being told what is and who are important to maintain government.
First let me repeat that equalization does not require agreement by one or ten provinces of Canada - it is a federal unilateral program. Politically speaking it requires only Quebec - Ontario - and to a lesser degree Alberta and BC.
When Harper made the promise to remove non-renewables from the formula - he was supported by BC - Alberta - Saskatchewan - Ontario - and Newfoundland and Labrador and was rejected by Manitoba - Quebec - PEI - New Brunswick - and Nova Scotia. It was 5 to 5.
What happened since is the height of ethically bankrupt politicians. He had two ways to go. To break the impasse between provinces he could have found a solution to bring more support to the promise of removal. This would have taken some brains - dedication - and creativity. It would appear - if the rumours are true - that he chose instead the tried and true political route of "just give Quebec and Ontario what they want". Make no mistake this hurts us. This is where we should make our stand and a final stand at that if we can't hold him to this promise.
Quebec was easy - they did not want non-renewables removed - Ontario was just as easy if Harper promised them a new bag of money. Alberta supported the principle but does not rely on it - as they are not a recipient province.
Face to face - eyeball - to eyeball Harper guaranteed me that non-renewable natural resource revenues would be removed. It was and is based on solid economic policy which recognizes that future generations would not have direct benefit from an exhausted non-renewable resource - so at the very least the direct revenues from those resources when exploited should remain in the Provinces for infrastructure or a "heritage fund" or some other benefit that would accrue to our children and grand-children.
If the PM breaks this promise the flag should come down and never go up again - because Canada (Ontario and Quebec) will have screwed our people again.
That Randy Simms is not a myth.
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