Sometimes it is worthwhile to review a sequence of events.
As it relates to the SNC situation that we find our Country transfixed by - the discussion around the deluge of lobbying by the company as they sat charged with serious criminal offences - has been somewhat vetted.
Many have also talked about the fact that changes to the Criminal Code were buried in a Budget Bill. Most seem to find that inappropriate.
Obviously there are continued questions and escalating mistrust which will likely continue to haunt the PMO and Prime Minister Justin Trudeau - as long as there are no comments from Jody Wilson-Raybould.
This post however will review a surely impossible sequence of events that lead up to the tabled change to the Criminal Code within the Budget Bill.
Let's make this short. It will add to the call for investigative measures to take place regarding this SNC mess.
You've probably heard by now that Canadians were told that the government was considering Deferred Prosecution Agreements. The spin - partially true - was that the public could have commented on this idea. Let's say the MP's did not do a full court press to constituents on this very important matter. The MSM were not all aflutter with advising Canadians of this very important consultation process.
Putting that aside - the consultation took place between September 25th - December 08 2017.
The report on the consultations found (PRESS HERE) was dated February 22nd 2018. The report is a general summary of what was heard or submitted by participants, a copy of the questions given to participants to answer, and a paragraph at the end of report titles "Next Steps", The following is that paragraph: The Government of Canada will further review the feedback received and assess whether enhancements to the Integrity Regime are warranted to ensure that the Regime continues to achieve its objectives, is efficient in doing so, and addresses new trends and risks in a constantly changing marketplace. Feedback will also be used by the Government of Canada in considering the possibility of introducing a Canadian DPA regime as an additional tool for prosecutors, to be used in appropriate circumstances, to address corporate crime. (emphasis added)
Further the last paragraph reads: While this public consultation has ended, the Government of Canada remains committed to hearing from interested parties regarding both the Integrity Regime and DPAs.
So on February 22nd of 2018 the report for consideration - to be assessed and reviewed - and even to possibly continue to hear from other people was released. It could be reviewed by Canadians and Parliamentarians alike. Let's have a discussion kind of tone.
5 days later there is a Budget Bill presented to the House of Commons that included the changes to the Criminal Code on these matters.
The proposed law was written and presented to Parliament 5 days after the report is released for assessment, review, and even more invited commentary.
Please take the time to think about that. In 5 short days 3 months of material and findings were reviewed - assessed - and already presented for passage of the Budget Bill.
Any reasonably minded person would conclude the proposed changes to the Criminal Code were already written before the report was released.
Any reasonably minded person knows that Criminal Code changes just don't happen that way or that fast.
The report does not allow Canadians to see who said what - and what exactly was being submitted.
But lucky for Canadians - SNC Lavalin put its submission on their site.
Have a look at the report referenced above and then the changes to the Criminal Code (PRESS HERE) and then decide who influenced our law.
Undue influence? Need to get the fix in place for SNC in a timely manner?
Next post will deal with the change in language from Deferred Prosecution Agreements to Remediation Agreements. Funny that when GM Butts resigned - he actually used the term Deferred Prosecution Agreements instead of Remediation Agreements - the latter of which is actually law.
Showing posts with label NDP. Show all posts
Showing posts with label NDP. Show all posts
Monday, February 18, 2019
Monday, October 29, 2018
You did it too...
The pathetic answer to any questions posed by the Opposition during Question Period.
If we can assume that what the Tories did while in office is what got them booted from office, then surely we can assume doing the same thing will bring the same result for the sitting Liberals.
Here is how it goes.
The PC's are in office. They make a patronage appointment. The Liberals and NDP call them out on it and say that it's not acceptable.
As part of the Party Platform the Liberals say they will get rid of patronage appointments.
The Liberals form government and commence patronage appointments.
When challenged in the House by a PC member - the answer is "you did it too".
When you remove all the glitter and bring it back to the basics - this is Newfoundland and Labrador politics.
The story behind the Appointments Commission is a good one. Perhaps Dwight would like to share that and many more stories.
While we are at it lets talk about the continuation of the boondoggle called Muskrat. Another "you did it too" situation?
Look at what Mexico did. Press HERE
If we can assume that what the Tories did while in office is what got them booted from office, then surely we can assume doing the same thing will bring the same result for the sitting Liberals.
Here is how it goes.
The PC's are in office. They make a patronage appointment. The Liberals and NDP call them out on it and say that it's not acceptable.
As part of the Party Platform the Liberals say they will get rid of patronage appointments.
The Liberals form government and commence patronage appointments.
When challenged in the House by a PC member - the answer is "you did it too".
When you remove all the glitter and bring it back to the basics - this is Newfoundland and Labrador politics.
The story behind the Appointments Commission is a good one. Perhaps Dwight would like to share that and many more stories.
While we are at it lets talk about the continuation of the boondoggle called Muskrat. Another "you did it too" situation?
Look at what Mexico did. Press HERE
Thursday, October 12, 2017
More Breaking News
Puerto Rico as you have all probably heard by now - is essentially bankrupt - on fiscal life support - in need of massive bailout. It is considered impoverished.
Newfoundland and Labrador on the other hand is designated as a "have province". That puts us ahead of the provinces collecting equalization.
In the 2017-2018 year, the following provinces will receive equalization payments:
Outstanding debt: 70 billion
Population: 3.4 million
$20,588 per person
Unemployment 10%
Newfoundland and Labrador
Outstanding debt: 13 billion
Population: 528,000
$24,621 per person
Unemployment 15%
This does not include the 13 billion dollar boondoggle Muskrat.
Both Puerto Rico and Newfoundland and Labrador see migration to the continental parts of their countries - both permanently and for temporary work.
Puerto Rico and Newfoundland and Labrador are losing population.
Puerto Rico's aging demographics are much healthier than Newfoundland and Labrador's
We must also consider that Newfoundland and Labrador receives as all provinces do - transfer payments for programs such as health and education not so much for Puerto Rico.
There is a three-pronged problem here.
The first is the understanding or lack thereof of the Equalization program. I have discussed this briefly in a previous post.
The second is that even the reasonable or equitable (to some degree) parts of equalization - leaves us essentially bankrupt because although we have the resources to generate tax, royalties, revenues - we have mismanaged the resources so badly that what equalization considers we should generate from resources - we don't actually generate from them. (oil revenues unfair part)
The third problem is the absolute ignorance deliberate or otherwise of our politicians - refusing to actually understand the mess we are in.
And these same people continue to permit spending on Muskrat Falls.
The people of Puerto Rico just like the people of Newfoundland and Labrador love where they live and want to stay. However both jurisdictions are likely to see significant migration to their respective "mainlands" simply to survive and thrive.
Note to Labradorians - my use of the word "mainland" does not refer to you. I recognize the difference.
Newfoundland and Labrador on the other hand is designated as a "have province". That puts us ahead of the provinces collecting equalization.
In the 2017-2018 year, the following provinces will receive equalization payments:
- Quebec ($11.081 billion) (please note this amount) program designed to suit them.
- Manitoba ($1.820 billion)
- Nova Scotia ($1.779 billion)
- New Brunswick ($1.760 billion)
- Ontario ($1.424 billion)
- Prince Edward Island ($390 million)
Outstanding debt: 70 billion
Population: 3.4 million
$20,588 per person
Unemployment 10%
Newfoundland and Labrador
Outstanding debt: 13 billion
Population: 528,000
$24,621 per person
Unemployment 15%
This does not include the 13 billion dollar boondoggle Muskrat.
Both Puerto Rico and Newfoundland and Labrador see migration to the continental parts of their countries - both permanently and for temporary work.
Puerto Rico and Newfoundland and Labrador are losing population.
Puerto Rico's aging demographics are much healthier than Newfoundland and Labrador's
We must also consider that Newfoundland and Labrador receives as all provinces do - transfer payments for programs such as health and education not so much for Puerto Rico.
There is a three-pronged problem here.
The first is the understanding or lack thereof of the Equalization program. I have discussed this briefly in a previous post.
The second is that even the reasonable or equitable (to some degree) parts of equalization - leaves us essentially bankrupt because although we have the resources to generate tax, royalties, revenues - we have mismanaged the resources so badly that what equalization considers we should generate from resources - we don't actually generate from them. (oil revenues unfair part)
The third problem is the absolute ignorance deliberate or otherwise of our politicians - refusing to actually understand the mess we are in.
And these same people continue to permit spending on Muskrat Falls.
The people of Puerto Rico just like the people of Newfoundland and Labrador love where they live and want to stay. However both jurisdictions are likely to see significant migration to their respective "mainlands" simply to survive and thrive.
Note to Labradorians - my use of the word "mainland" does not refer to you. I recognize the difference.
Monday, September 25, 2017
How Trudeau may lose the next election?
There is a poll out today by Forum Poll that actually has the Conservative Party of Canada ahead of the Trudeau Liberals - this despite the unknown entity of Andrew Scheer as the CPC leader.
It shows many Canadians moving back to the Conservatives. After the Stephen Harper debacle - that's not a desirable prospect.
The Trudeau Liberals are defining themselves as ultra-tolerant socially while moving themselves to fiscal conservatives with policies regarding trade deals, pipelines, and big (foreign) corporations. They have also taken a page out of Harper's book - by ignoring their promise to end the First Past the Post system.
This combination will probably fail in the next election if not corrected - quickly.
Canadians on majority are a very tolerant lot and we do live in a multi-cultural country. But there are feelings of angst within the population - and feelings that we are being too tolerant.
Some of this is coming from the diametrically opposed positions of protecting human rights socially - while continuing to deal with Saudi Arabia and other religious states for business purposes.
In Canada our government is not run on a religious platform. In fact Trudeau comes from a perspective that religion is a personal choice and is a freedom.
The story regarding Saudi Arabia funding schools in Canada though presents a real problem. It is a foreign government which is run on the basis that Sunni-Islam is the state religion. Their laws are dictated by religion. When money from that country is being used to expand and run an Islamic private school in Ottawa - people begin to question what the outcome of that may be. Schools in Canada should be funded within Canada.
There are already disputes in Canada regarding the Charter of Rights and Freedoms and the freedom of religious beliefs. For instance will Sharia Law be allowed in circumstances regarding that faith (marriage, divorce, ans infidelity as an example) and if that will replace in those circumstances Canadian Law. This is true of other religions as well.
Then there are situations like the one witnessed in Quebec where a woman was denied a day in court because she was wearing a Hijab. Although a Superior Court found the Judge erred - the Court would not grant that all cases would end up with the same result.
What of - equality for women? This becomes very complex even on the global level. In all cultures and most religions there is room for complaint regarding the inequality of women.
In Canada - Trudeau has made it a very public cause to ensure that women are equally represented in Parliament and all Canadian institutions - yet at the same time feeling very comfortable with religious leaders/heads of State who do not practice or believe in the same.
For as far back as history takes us - women defined by religions - have not been equal. The cause of equality for women has been and continues to be a struggle. The same is not true of men. Men are not fighting backwards all the time - religion always places them ahead of women in some way or another.
It used to be that Canada had ongoing debates on equalization, transfer payments to provinces, universal healthcare, democratic reform, debts and deficits, indigenous peoples, and the woes of Confederation. Nowadays much of parliament is tied up with the rights of one religious group or another, immigration from Muslim countries, the Hijab, freedom of speech versus what is hate, and how to balance the rights of women versus the cultural rights of women.
On the fiscal side - all is wide open. If it's good for Canadian business - we will deal, trade, and cooperate with countries that continue to execute based on sexual preference, countries that continue to treat women as property, countries that restrict freedom of speech and the press, countries that have and do fund terrorist organizations, and countries that continue to run under a dictatorship.
This is causing Canadians to rethink - this is driving Canadians back to an extreme on the social far-right.
We have just witnessed an insurgence of support for the extreme-right party in Germany and we all know what happened in the USA.
When Capitalist countries are attracted to wealth - and a dictatorship offers them an ability to increase wealth - potential social consequences may not be that attractive.
Canada is a tolerant nation - but now our people are worried that it might become intolerant if religious views and practices of other religious states become too influential in our society.
Pierre Trudeau once said:
‘There’s no place for the state in the bedrooms of the nation’
likewise
Religious states have no place in the Parliament of Canada.
The younger Trudeau must deal with this sooner rather than later. If not the next election may already be lost.
The younger Trudeau must focus on real democratic reform, a balanced economic agenda, equalization, healthcare for an aging population, federal/provincial relations, problems with trade deals that put corporations ahead of people, the environment, employment and manufacturing, and in Newfoundland and Labrador, Muskrat Falls, the fishery, Search and Rescue, and Federal jobs and establishing a Crown Corporation in our province.
Democracy is about what people want - what they want their country to be - priorities regarding social programs and economic development - advancing human rights - and positively reinforcing democratic principles and enhancing them. It is not about the promotion of any religion, the contortions required to being seen as tolerant (we are tolerant), the hypocritical business dealings with countries that are not democratic and do not protect basic human rights, the attraction of bloodsucking multinational companies at all costs and not about the personal agendas of politicians.
The fact that any scientific poll puts Andrew Scheer and the CPC close - let alone ahead of the Liberals is something that should open some Parliamentarian eyes. Please reflect and do not place us right back with Stephen Harper and his buddies.
It shows many Canadians moving back to the Conservatives. After the Stephen Harper debacle - that's not a desirable prospect.
The Trudeau Liberals are defining themselves as ultra-tolerant socially while moving themselves to fiscal conservatives with policies regarding trade deals, pipelines, and big (foreign) corporations. They have also taken a page out of Harper's book - by ignoring their promise to end the First Past the Post system.
This combination will probably fail in the next election if not corrected - quickly.
Canadians on majority are a very tolerant lot and we do live in a multi-cultural country. But there are feelings of angst within the population - and feelings that we are being too tolerant.
Some of this is coming from the diametrically opposed positions of protecting human rights socially - while continuing to deal with Saudi Arabia and other religious states for business purposes.
In Canada our government is not run on a religious platform. In fact Trudeau comes from a perspective that religion is a personal choice and is a freedom.
The story regarding Saudi Arabia funding schools in Canada though presents a real problem. It is a foreign government which is run on the basis that Sunni-Islam is the state religion. Their laws are dictated by religion. When money from that country is being used to expand and run an Islamic private school in Ottawa - people begin to question what the outcome of that may be. Schools in Canada should be funded within Canada.
There are already disputes in Canada regarding the Charter of Rights and Freedoms and the freedom of religious beliefs. For instance will Sharia Law be allowed in circumstances regarding that faith (marriage, divorce, ans infidelity as an example) and if that will replace in those circumstances Canadian Law. This is true of other religions as well.
Then there are situations like the one witnessed in Quebec where a woman was denied a day in court because she was wearing a Hijab. Although a Superior Court found the Judge erred - the Court would not grant that all cases would end up with the same result.
What of - equality for women? This becomes very complex even on the global level. In all cultures and most religions there is room for complaint regarding the inequality of women.
In Canada - Trudeau has made it a very public cause to ensure that women are equally represented in Parliament and all Canadian institutions - yet at the same time feeling very comfortable with religious leaders/heads of State who do not practice or believe in the same.
For as far back as history takes us - women defined by religions - have not been equal. The cause of equality for women has been and continues to be a struggle. The same is not true of men. Men are not fighting backwards all the time - religion always places them ahead of women in some way or another.
It used to be that Canada had ongoing debates on equalization, transfer payments to provinces, universal healthcare, democratic reform, debts and deficits, indigenous peoples, and the woes of Confederation. Nowadays much of parliament is tied up with the rights of one religious group or another, immigration from Muslim countries, the Hijab, freedom of speech versus what is hate, and how to balance the rights of women versus the cultural rights of women.
On the fiscal side - all is wide open. If it's good for Canadian business - we will deal, trade, and cooperate with countries that continue to execute based on sexual preference, countries that continue to treat women as property, countries that restrict freedom of speech and the press, countries that have and do fund terrorist organizations, and countries that continue to run under a dictatorship.
This is causing Canadians to rethink - this is driving Canadians back to an extreme on the social far-right.
We have just witnessed an insurgence of support for the extreme-right party in Germany and we all know what happened in the USA.
When Capitalist countries are attracted to wealth - and a dictatorship offers them an ability to increase wealth - potential social consequences may not be that attractive.
Canada is a tolerant nation - but now our people are worried that it might become intolerant if religious views and practices of other religious states become too influential in our society.
Pierre Trudeau once said:
‘There’s no place for the state in the bedrooms of the nation’
likewise
Religious states have no place in the Parliament of Canada.
The younger Trudeau must deal with this sooner rather than later. If not the next election may already be lost.
The younger Trudeau must focus on real democratic reform, a balanced economic agenda, equalization, healthcare for an aging population, federal/provincial relations, problems with trade deals that put corporations ahead of people, the environment, employment and manufacturing, and in Newfoundland and Labrador, Muskrat Falls, the fishery, Search and Rescue, and Federal jobs and establishing a Crown Corporation in our province.
Democracy is about what people want - what they want their country to be - priorities regarding social programs and economic development - advancing human rights - and positively reinforcing democratic principles and enhancing them. It is not about the promotion of any religion, the contortions required to being seen as tolerant (we are tolerant), the hypocritical business dealings with countries that are not democratic and do not protect basic human rights, the attraction of bloodsucking multinational companies at all costs and not about the personal agendas of politicians.
The fact that any scientific poll puts Andrew Scheer and the CPC close - let alone ahead of the Liberals is something that should open some Parliamentarian eyes. Please reflect and do not place us right back with Stephen Harper and his buddies.
Sunday, September 24, 2017
Apathy and disorganization - a politician's dream
So much is known now about the Muskrat Falls fiasco - that even with the information we do not have - we know we've been had.
The perplexing question is how do we stop it?
Dwight Ball, Danny Williams, and those making fortunes on our bankrupt backs are counting on 2 things.
The first is apathy and the second is disorganization.
Let's talk about apathy. In the last CRA Poll of "decided" voters the Liberals held 40%, the PC's held 33%, the NDP held 24%, the Labrador Party 2% and the Greens (not a provincial party) held 1%.
Now the reality is that the undecided/refused was 43%, therefore the Liberals have support of 22.8% the PC's have support of 18.8%, the NDP have support of 13.6%, the Labrador Party have support of 1.1% and the Greens have support of .57%.
Part of this can be attributed to apathy and that suits the politicians just fine. Despite their protestations that voter participation should be higher - they are doing nothing really to entice those who either are sick of politicians or those who could care less.
Next we get to disorganization - a large chunk of that 43% undecided/refused are people who want to participate - but are so fed up with the big three choices that they can't commit to anything. They are also discouraged by the improbability that any new or marginal party would stand a chance.
There are twitter and blog trolls whose job it is to discourage active democratic movement - by simply saying things like "that won't work" "can't be done" "extremists and naysayers" etc.
Politicians are currently comfortable that this is all it will take to keep a real democratic movement from going forward. Why are they comfortable? Because the opposition to them is disorganized.
We have talented bloggers, intelligent tweeters, backroom experts, and call show gurus. They come from varied backgrounds and have personalities that are as diverse as you can get. They certainly have enough wherewithal to begin a new political movement. They could form a Cabinet that would make the current crew and the PC's before them look like rank amateurs.
For the most part - these people - many of whom have had political affiliations in the past - do not put Party in front of Province. They will take aim at the real issues and let rip.
The government (regardless of which one) will attempt to take some of them out with political appointments or engage them in another way to diminish the pool of articulate opposition.
In Quebec and other provinces - political movements are seen as advantageous and are encouraged. In Newfoundland and Labrador we have oodles of political minions who will take great pleasure in knocking them down. They don't have the capability to take them down on wits - so they get involved in name calling like "naysayer", "partisan", and/or "conspiracy theorists".
The other favourite pastime in Newfoundland and Labrador is to turn one of these people who oppose government against another who opposes government. This is done subtly - someone who knows someone says this about someone. You know - I'm sure you've all heard it. Then there is the politicians go-to, try and negatively impact the life of one of their antagonists. Yes - they do this - all the time.
The not-so-subtle approach is to just have a number of minions go beyond the normal types of insults and question a person's sanity - publicly. They also bring out "experts" to try and downplay the findings of a blogger - regardless of the validity. This public approach is also designed to deter others from becoming involved.
This is what we are dealing with. This is real.
Until the bloggers, the Tweeters, the backroom experts, and the call-show gurus (unofficial opposition) get together and plan some real action under real leadership - Muskrat and every other fiasco will continue.
We won't have a province left - but thanks to social media we'll have an historical account of the opposition.
The perplexing question is how do we stop it?
Dwight Ball, Danny Williams, and those making fortunes on our bankrupt backs are counting on 2 things.
The first is apathy and the second is disorganization.
Let's talk about apathy. In the last CRA Poll of "decided" voters the Liberals held 40%, the PC's held 33%, the NDP held 24%, the Labrador Party 2% and the Greens (not a provincial party) held 1%.
Now the reality is that the undecided/refused was 43%, therefore the Liberals have support of 22.8% the PC's have support of 18.8%, the NDP have support of 13.6%, the Labrador Party have support of 1.1% and the Greens have support of .57%.
Part of this can be attributed to apathy and that suits the politicians just fine. Despite their protestations that voter participation should be higher - they are doing nothing really to entice those who either are sick of politicians or those who could care less.
Next we get to disorganization - a large chunk of that 43% undecided/refused are people who want to participate - but are so fed up with the big three choices that they can't commit to anything. They are also discouraged by the improbability that any new or marginal party would stand a chance.
There are twitter and blog trolls whose job it is to discourage active democratic movement - by simply saying things like "that won't work" "can't be done" "extremists and naysayers" etc.
Politicians are currently comfortable that this is all it will take to keep a real democratic movement from going forward. Why are they comfortable? Because the opposition to them is disorganized.
We have talented bloggers, intelligent tweeters, backroom experts, and call show gurus. They come from varied backgrounds and have personalities that are as diverse as you can get. They certainly have enough wherewithal to begin a new political movement. They could form a Cabinet that would make the current crew and the PC's before them look like rank amateurs.
For the most part - these people - many of whom have had political affiliations in the past - do not put Party in front of Province. They will take aim at the real issues and let rip.
The government (regardless of which one) will attempt to take some of them out with political appointments or engage them in another way to diminish the pool of articulate opposition.
In Quebec and other provinces - political movements are seen as advantageous and are encouraged. In Newfoundland and Labrador we have oodles of political minions who will take great pleasure in knocking them down. They don't have the capability to take them down on wits - so they get involved in name calling like "naysayer", "partisan", and/or "conspiracy theorists".
The other favourite pastime in Newfoundland and Labrador is to turn one of these people who oppose government against another who opposes government. This is done subtly - someone who knows someone says this about someone. You know - I'm sure you've all heard it. Then there is the politicians go-to, try and negatively impact the life of one of their antagonists. Yes - they do this - all the time.
The not-so-subtle approach is to just have a number of minions go beyond the normal types of insults and question a person's sanity - publicly. They also bring out "experts" to try and downplay the findings of a blogger - regardless of the validity. This public approach is also designed to deter others from becoming involved.
This is what we are dealing with. This is real.
Until the bloggers, the Tweeters, the backroom experts, and the call-show gurus (unofficial opposition) get together and plan some real action under real leadership - Muskrat and every other fiasco will continue.
We won't have a province left - but thanks to social media we'll have an historical account of the opposition.
Sunday, September 10, 2017
Dear Premier - do you see the red flags? Forensic Audit
A forensic audit is the process of reviewing a person's or company's
financial statements to determine if they are accurate and lawful.
Thursday, August 24, 2017
Continuing to fail our children
At what point do we - as a society - say - enough?
The history of child abuse in Newfoundland and Labrador is horrific.
The cover-ups at Mount Cashel, the inordinate number of times we witnessed "systemic failure", and the constant stories of our children being battered, tortured, molested and traumatized by foster parents, parents, priests, relatives, and strangers.
These precious little people, innocent, without a voice, without protection from society.
Pedophiles in every position of power and authority - having their pick of victims.
Please have a look into the sweet faces of one of your children, grandchildren, your niece or nephew - and try to imagine a so-called human-being harming them.
These predators need to go to prison and go to prison for a long time. Yet many of them are walking among us - they are living life freely as they take a child and crush their trust, their innocence, their life.
The "system" designed to protect them has failed over and over again.
It is time to terminate the employment of adults who through negligence, incompetence, or reprehensible lack of caring, allow these atrocities to occur.
It is time to create a fail-safe system.
Clearly policies and legislation have failed.
The voices of adults speaking out against, racism, gender bias, and inequalities of all sorts are strong, united, and get the attention of media on a daily basis. Yet virtually the only time we hear the voice of a child who is a victim of abuse is after the crime has been committed - and usually it is after multiple occurances.
A 12 year old girl impregnated by her adult caregiver twice and twice having an abortion!
If we can't do something to prevent this - then we are not fit to be called an advanced society.
Grown men - pretending to be boys - stalking young girls on the internet for their twisted pleasure while the community and family want to add that otherwise they are good people?
Little children being murdered by a parent - to spite another parent? Yes people this is the type of garbage walking our streets.
So politicians and bureaucrats - get your collective act together - and make certain our children are protected.
Fish policy, energy policy, forestry policy, health policy, tourism policy, education policy can all be damned if we cannot first find a way to make our children safe.
We have had Inquiries, reviews, panels of experts, and promises.
Enough of that crap - protect the children of our province. If you can't step aside, quit, hide your head somewhere out of it.
If a child is failed by the system - fire the system.
It is rather difficult to focus on all the economic turmoil, corruption, and boondoggles of our province when 12 year olds are whisked into a room for impregnation by an adult caregiver.
Does this turn your guts? It should. Please join me and demand a resolve to this. Let no other child suffer like this again.
No more excuses.
The history of child abuse in Newfoundland and Labrador is horrific.
The cover-ups at Mount Cashel, the inordinate number of times we witnessed "systemic failure", and the constant stories of our children being battered, tortured, molested and traumatized by foster parents, parents, priests, relatives, and strangers.
These precious little people, innocent, without a voice, without protection from society.
Pedophiles in every position of power and authority - having their pick of victims.
Please have a look into the sweet faces of one of your children, grandchildren, your niece or nephew - and try to imagine a so-called human-being harming them.
These predators need to go to prison and go to prison for a long time. Yet many of them are walking among us - they are living life freely as they take a child and crush their trust, their innocence, their life.
The "system" designed to protect them has failed over and over again.
It is time to terminate the employment of adults who through negligence, incompetence, or reprehensible lack of caring, allow these atrocities to occur.
It is time to create a fail-safe system.
Clearly policies and legislation have failed.
The voices of adults speaking out against, racism, gender bias, and inequalities of all sorts are strong, united, and get the attention of media on a daily basis. Yet virtually the only time we hear the voice of a child who is a victim of abuse is after the crime has been committed - and usually it is after multiple occurances.
A 12 year old girl impregnated by her adult caregiver twice and twice having an abortion!
If we can't do something to prevent this - then we are not fit to be called an advanced society.
Grown men - pretending to be boys - stalking young girls on the internet for their twisted pleasure while the community and family want to add that otherwise they are good people?
Little children being murdered by a parent - to spite another parent? Yes people this is the type of garbage walking our streets.
So politicians and bureaucrats - get your collective act together - and make certain our children are protected.
Fish policy, energy policy, forestry policy, health policy, tourism policy, education policy can all be damned if we cannot first find a way to make our children safe.
We have had Inquiries, reviews, panels of experts, and promises.
Enough of that crap - protect the children of our province. If you can't step aside, quit, hide your head somewhere out of it.
If a child is failed by the system - fire the system.
It is rather difficult to focus on all the economic turmoil, corruption, and boondoggles of our province when 12 year olds are whisked into a room for impregnation by an adult caregiver.
Does this turn your guts? It should. Please join me and demand a resolve to this. Let no other child suffer like this again.
No more excuses.
Friday, November 06, 2015
Harper hands off to MacKay
As a political junkie and an active citizen - I always like to review the term/s of any Prime Minister or Premier.
Usually there are good and bad policies in all governments regardless of stripe. Then again - usually in Canada the mainstream parties Progressive Conservative, Liberal, or New Democrat are just left or right of center. They are not right or left wing zealots attempting to change the very soul of the Country.
Then came Stephen Harper - one half of a deceitful duo - with Peter MacKay. These two politicians were supposed to "unite the right". In truth - it was the Reforms effort to mask itself enough and form government and for Peter MacKay it was a lazy and selfish way to bring his Progressive Conservatives back from near extinction.
For PC's like David Orchard and Joe Clark the merger represented the greatest act of treachery in the party's history.
The right wing extremist Harper and the self-centered MacKay had no problem moving on - each with their own agenda. Harper is not a stupid man and understood immediately that he was smarter than the lazy selfish MacKay. As long as Harper kept MacKay happy - Harper could keep the ideologically fractured caucus in check.
Satisfying Peter meant just that - satisfying Peter. He could have the portfolios he desired, the travel he desired, and the prominence he desired. Little by little Harper changed our Country - right under the nose of MacKay who give in little by little on ideology if it meant progressive improvement for himself.
MacKay did not care if the Country was being stripped of democratic principles, stripped of judicial values, stripped of its Constitution as long as he - Peter MacKay - was upwardly mobile. Mackay became more and more arrogant - more and more aloof - more and more deceitful.
The Harper era was - I believe - based on an agreement. That is to say - he and his political partner - set rules for each other and more importantly time-frames. I have no doubt that the merger of the parties came with an opportunity for both to lead it.
The red-carpet send off for MacKay by the Prime Minister was unprecedented and quite unusual. The political love-in was scripted by both and in my opinion written a decade earlier. All of this was pulled off because an ever weakening media answered the call. Sure MacKay leaving was a story - but that news was not important enough for live coverage of every word.
Shifting away from the extreme right will be the reason to elect MacKay sometime in late 2016 or early 2017 - it will be determined as "necessary" to lure the public back with moderate social policy.
Peter in the meanwhile will be a free agent - but very accessible to an adoring press. He's already begun playing them like a fiddle.
Harper did considerable damage to the "free" press - they became the propaganda delivery team - trained like a circus animal - through continued punish and learn exercises. The odd journalist that delivered news had to do so very carefully or with the blessing of a boss through commentary.
There were media rules and deals that we the public did not see during the election - we seen the result but not backroom agreements.
Have you ever watched a flock of hungry starlings upon the discovery of food? If not - all you had to do was watch our national media question the hours old Cabinet - to envision what the starlings are like.
As many of you know - I - as one citizen - insist on freedom of the press. I am unforgiving as a voter to a leader or MP who demands full control of media. I did not expect or need particulars about what the Ministers were going to do in their new portfolios on day one. I would expect them to tell me their priorities and any urgent and immediate changes within a week or two. The "Hill" reporters were savages on Wednesday - they even giggled - (watch the video) if there is one. Justin Trudeau said they were important and should be able to ask tough questions - and as if Trudeau was Pavlov - he rang a bell.
For the past five years at least - they were obedient - if they complained it must have been at a virtual kitchen table - we never heard it.
They have become so irrelevant that when Trudeau opened the access and advised them they were important again - they fed like piranha.
Let me be clear dear media - before you increase your dislike of me - you demonstrated it again in spades when you "interviewed" Ms. Ambrose. You were respectful of the rules Harper put in place for you.
Without considerable determination of journalists - the next couple of years will be high-energy focus on keeping Trudeau "accountable" while allowing MacKay and Ambrose to play by Harper media rules. Peter will become the heir apparent and will demand of the media - respect and boundaries that will be set by him.
The media continues to let Harper off the accountability hook and unless this changes - Trudeau's commitment to revitalize the CBC will only mean a license for journalists to investigate and report on Liberals - while letting MacKay and the CPC go unchecked into the next election.
Ready - set - go....
Usually there are good and bad policies in all governments regardless of stripe. Then again - usually in Canada the mainstream parties Progressive Conservative, Liberal, or New Democrat are just left or right of center. They are not right or left wing zealots attempting to change the very soul of the Country.
Then came Stephen Harper - one half of a deceitful duo - with Peter MacKay. These two politicians were supposed to "unite the right". In truth - it was the Reforms effort to mask itself enough and form government and for Peter MacKay it was a lazy and selfish way to bring his Progressive Conservatives back from near extinction.
For PC's like David Orchard and Joe Clark the merger represented the greatest act of treachery in the party's history.
The right wing extremist Harper and the self-centered MacKay had no problem moving on - each with their own agenda. Harper is not a stupid man and understood immediately that he was smarter than the lazy selfish MacKay. As long as Harper kept MacKay happy - Harper could keep the ideologically fractured caucus in check.
Satisfying Peter meant just that - satisfying Peter. He could have the portfolios he desired, the travel he desired, and the prominence he desired. Little by little Harper changed our Country - right under the nose of MacKay who give in little by little on ideology if it meant progressive improvement for himself.
MacKay did not care if the Country was being stripped of democratic principles, stripped of judicial values, stripped of its Constitution as long as he - Peter MacKay - was upwardly mobile. Mackay became more and more arrogant - more and more aloof - more and more deceitful.
The Harper era was - I believe - based on an agreement. That is to say - he and his political partner - set rules for each other and more importantly time-frames. I have no doubt that the merger of the parties came with an opportunity for both to lead it.
The red-carpet send off for MacKay by the Prime Minister was unprecedented and quite unusual. The political love-in was scripted by both and in my opinion written a decade earlier. All of this was pulled off because an ever weakening media answered the call. Sure MacKay leaving was a story - but that news was not important enough for live coverage of every word.
Shifting away from the extreme right will be the reason to elect MacKay sometime in late 2016 or early 2017 - it will be determined as "necessary" to lure the public back with moderate social policy.
Peter in the meanwhile will be a free agent - but very accessible to an adoring press. He's already begun playing them like a fiddle.
Harper did considerable damage to the "free" press - they became the propaganda delivery team - trained like a circus animal - through continued punish and learn exercises. The odd journalist that delivered news had to do so very carefully or with the blessing of a boss through commentary.
There were media rules and deals that we the public did not see during the election - we seen the result but not backroom agreements.
Have you ever watched a flock of hungry starlings upon the discovery of food? If not - all you had to do was watch our national media question the hours old Cabinet - to envision what the starlings are like.
As many of you know - I - as one citizen - insist on freedom of the press. I am unforgiving as a voter to a leader or MP who demands full control of media. I did not expect or need particulars about what the Ministers were going to do in their new portfolios on day one. I would expect them to tell me their priorities and any urgent and immediate changes within a week or two. The "Hill" reporters were savages on Wednesday - they even giggled - (watch the video) if there is one. Justin Trudeau said they were important and should be able to ask tough questions - and as if Trudeau was Pavlov - he rang a bell.
For the past five years at least - they were obedient - if they complained it must have been at a virtual kitchen table - we never heard it.
They have become so irrelevant that when Trudeau opened the access and advised them they were important again - they fed like piranha.
Let me be clear dear media - before you increase your dislike of me - you demonstrated it again in spades when you "interviewed" Ms. Ambrose. You were respectful of the rules Harper put in place for you.
Without considerable determination of journalists - the next couple of years will be high-energy focus on keeping Trudeau "accountable" while allowing MacKay and Ambrose to play by Harper media rules. Peter will become the heir apparent and will demand of the media - respect and boundaries that will be set by him.
The media continues to let Harper off the accountability hook and unless this changes - Trudeau's commitment to revitalize the CBC will only mean a license for journalists to investigate and report on Liberals - while letting MacKay and the CPC go unchecked into the next election.
Ready - set - go....
Saturday, July 25, 2015
The Governor General should do his job
Let me preface this post by declaring my disgust with the Senate and my support for a full public federal/provincial process to discuss reformation or abolition.
Yesterday - Prime Minister Stephen Harper - demonstrated again his disdain for Canada and the Constitution.
We could argue at this point that Stephen Harper is an element causing disruption to the economy and affairs in Canada.
I ask again - is the Prime Minister under investigation by the RCMP or CSIS?
Many Canadians are sick of the Senate - we have lost confidence in the Upper Chamber as a result of unethical and perhaps criminal behavior of some Senators.
Many Canadians want reform - many want abolition - many want continuity with significant oversight.
Regardless of what we want - there is a process to change the Constitution of our country and it must be followed. I do not care what Harper, Mulcair, Trudeau, and May want - I care that they follow process.
Right now there are 22 vacancies in our Senate. These seats should be filled. They should have already been filled. The fact that Harper refuses to fill them is in direct opposition to our Constitution. The PM is once again snubbing the laws and Constitution of Canada.
The leaders of all political parties can muse about what the Senate should look like, operate like, or even whether or not it should exist - but they cannot pretend to be the decision makers on this issue.
This is paramount to saying the publicized evidence of an individual charged with a crime should be all it takes to find that party guilty. We do not need the courts or criminal justice system - we only need a hand full of people to declare somebody is guilty.
A Vancouver lawyer is in the process of challenging Harper's refusal to appoint Senators - via a court challenge.
I want to know where Governor General David Johnston is. The GG should be filling those seats. He should be taking his duties seriously. The policy of a PM providing advice to the GG on Senate appointments is just that - policy - NOT law.
David Johnston appears to have no problem making the ceremonial events or representing Canada in his capacity - he should have no problem doing his constitutional job.
Until the Constitution of Canada is changed - the Senate exists.
The following clause is not a thought it is law. "When a Vacancy happens in the Senate by Resignation, Death, or otherwise, the Governor General shall by Summons to a fit and qualified Person fill the Vacancy." See HERE
Arguing that there are no set time frames is ridiculous - it is frivolous - it is disingenuous.
The time frame is now - the word is "shall" and the responsibility falls on the Governor General.
Three men and one woman (Harper, Mulcair, Trudeau, May) do not possess the power to thwart the Constitution because they do not like it. They have the power - under process to start a process of change or amendment to the Constitution.
All Opposition parties should be screaming from the rooftops when the Constitution is being violated. Not doing so for political opportunism makes them no better than Harper - the man and party they want defeated.
Amending or changing the actual function of the Parliament is very serious and should be treated as such. This is not a political football to be tossed back and forth like children on a playground.
If these men and one woman want the respect of the electorate - respect our constitution.
As for Governor General David Johnston - he is a disgrace. Until he takes his real duties seriously - I cannot support him.
As for the media - once again they demonstrated how easily they fall into Harper's manipulation of the press. Harper proclaimed yesterday - under very weird circumstances - that:
1. He will not appoint Senators and
2. He wants the Senate abolished
Where's the scrum? Where's the oversight?
The man said that his refusal to appoint Senators will force the provinces to come up with a plan for reform. So our Prime Minister states that he will deliberately break the law until others decide to change it. This protest must potentially contravene C-51 - so where is the RCMP? where is CSIS?
Yes Canadians want change - but we want it done lawfully - particularly when it's the legislators who are ignoring it.
We as Canadians cannot jump all over Harper when he breaks some laws but not when he breaks this law.
In this particular case - Harper should be forced to follow law - Mulcair should knock off playing with it - Trudeau needs to explain better - and May - I'm not sure (not enough media coverage)
Governor General Johnston needs to appoint 22 Senators - now.
I'm not sure abolition is best or a Triple E is best. I do know that ignoring the law in an effort to change it - is NOT the role of elected representatives.
Yesterday - Prime Minister Stephen Harper - demonstrated again his disdain for Canada and the Constitution.
We could argue at this point that Stephen Harper is an element causing disruption to the economy and affairs in Canada.
I ask again - is the Prime Minister under investigation by the RCMP or CSIS?
Many Canadians are sick of the Senate - we have lost confidence in the Upper Chamber as a result of unethical and perhaps criminal behavior of some Senators.
Many Canadians want reform - many want abolition - many want continuity with significant oversight.
Regardless of what we want - there is a process to change the Constitution of our country and it must be followed. I do not care what Harper, Mulcair, Trudeau, and May want - I care that they follow process.
Right now there are 22 vacancies in our Senate. These seats should be filled. They should have already been filled. The fact that Harper refuses to fill them is in direct opposition to our Constitution. The PM is once again snubbing the laws and Constitution of Canada.
The leaders of all political parties can muse about what the Senate should look like, operate like, or even whether or not it should exist - but they cannot pretend to be the decision makers on this issue.
This is paramount to saying the publicized evidence of an individual charged with a crime should be all it takes to find that party guilty. We do not need the courts or criminal justice system - we only need a hand full of people to declare somebody is guilty.
A Vancouver lawyer is in the process of challenging Harper's refusal to appoint Senators - via a court challenge.
I want to know where Governor General David Johnston is. The GG should be filling those seats. He should be taking his duties seriously. The policy of a PM providing advice to the GG on Senate appointments is just that - policy - NOT law.
David Johnston appears to have no problem making the ceremonial events or representing Canada in his capacity - he should have no problem doing his constitutional job.
Until the Constitution of Canada is changed - the Senate exists.
The following clause is not a thought it is law. "When a Vacancy happens in the Senate by Resignation, Death, or otherwise, the Governor General shall by Summons to a fit and qualified Person fill the Vacancy." See HERE
Arguing that there are no set time frames is ridiculous - it is frivolous - it is disingenuous.
The time frame is now - the word is "shall" and the responsibility falls on the Governor General.
Three men and one woman (Harper, Mulcair, Trudeau, May) do not possess the power to thwart the Constitution because they do not like it. They have the power - under process to start a process of change or amendment to the Constitution.
All Opposition parties should be screaming from the rooftops when the Constitution is being violated. Not doing so for political opportunism makes them no better than Harper - the man and party they want defeated.
Amending or changing the actual function of the Parliament is very serious and should be treated as such. This is not a political football to be tossed back and forth like children on a playground.
If these men and one woman want the respect of the electorate - respect our constitution.
As for Governor General David Johnston - he is a disgrace. Until he takes his real duties seriously - I cannot support him.
As for the media - once again they demonstrated how easily they fall into Harper's manipulation of the press. Harper proclaimed yesterday - under very weird circumstances - that:
1. He will not appoint Senators and
2. He wants the Senate abolished
Where's the scrum? Where's the oversight?
The man said that his refusal to appoint Senators will force the provinces to come up with a plan for reform. So our Prime Minister states that he will deliberately break the law until others decide to change it. This protest must potentially contravene C-51 - so where is the RCMP? where is CSIS?
Yes Canadians want change - but we want it done lawfully - particularly when it's the legislators who are ignoring it.
We as Canadians cannot jump all over Harper when he breaks some laws but not when he breaks this law.
In this particular case - Harper should be forced to follow law - Mulcair should knock off playing with it - Trudeau needs to explain better - and May - I'm not sure (not enough media coverage)
Governor General Johnston needs to appoint 22 Senators - now.
I'm not sure abolition is best or a Triple E is best. I do know that ignoring the law in an effort to change it - is NOT the role of elected representatives.
Thursday, July 23, 2015
De Grasse - victim of Harper PR
As we head into a fall federal election - Canadians are probably facing the most important election ever. The very structure and design of our confederation and democracy is at risk.
The past couple of days have sent red flags flying everywhere.
Stephen Harper is a cunning and manipulative zealot of extreme ideology not suited to Canada. He is also a liar.
What we know as fact:
Harper is not a good judge of character - he has appointed crooks, cons, liars, and extremists,
Harper has inserted Canada in global war games not usual for our country,
Harper is consumed with oil economics and the corporate culture attached to it,
Harper is a liar,
Harper does not believe in our constitution,
Harper has damaged our economic health as a nation,
Harper does not hold First Minister's Conferences,
Harper does not believe in free press,
Harper continually abuses taxpayer dollars by mixing government policy with party promotion,
Harper is a fan of controlled populations,
Harper is an enemy of science and as such puts our country at risk.
This is a short list and does not include one point that I will address now.
Yesterday during the Pan Am Games - Harper and PR cronies did something that can only be seen as disgraceful.
Harper - as we know - likes photo-ops but does not like scrums. His manipulation of the national press is legendary and has been for the most part been successful. There are exceptions as some journalists fight back. This thankfully is picking up as the election looms.
I have watched some of the games - online - and have enjoyed the medal ceremonies where Canadian athletes accept the adoration and accolades of their fellow citizens.
During these ceremonies two people are assigned to do the presentations. One is from the Pan Am association and the other would be local politicians or first nations representatives. One of the two would present the medal and the other present a stuffed mascot.
Arguably the most watched event at any summer games (Olympics, Commonwealth, Pan Am, Nationals and Worlds) is the men's 100 metre sprint. This interest usually translates into mass media coverage and hype.
Canada's Andre De Grasse was the victor in last night's final and also became a casualty of the Harper PR machine.
Instead of the two person presentation team - this event had three. The normal reps and then there was the third wheel. Bal Gosal Minister of State for Sport who was introduced and then presented the mascot to De Grasse only.
It cheapened and politicized the event and attempted to upstage the amazing performance of De Grasse who may well end up being our greatest male sprinter.
It was a typical Harperization - do not miss capitalizing on the success of anybody. Do not miss a prime time photo-op. The only surprising element of this typical Harper PR was that Gosal was not wearing a Conservative Party of Canada shirt or that the gold medal did not have the CPC logo imprinted on it.
It was odd - uncomfortable - clumsy - and manipulative. It was Harper.
The past couple of days have sent red flags flying everywhere.
Stephen Harper is a cunning and manipulative zealot of extreme ideology not suited to Canada. He is also a liar.
What we know as fact:
Harper is not a good judge of character - he has appointed crooks, cons, liars, and extremists,
Harper has inserted Canada in global war games not usual for our country,
Harper is consumed with oil economics and the corporate culture attached to it,
Harper is a liar,
Harper does not believe in our constitution,
Harper has damaged our economic health as a nation,
Harper does not hold First Minister's Conferences,
Harper does not believe in free press,
Harper continually abuses taxpayer dollars by mixing government policy with party promotion,
Harper is a fan of controlled populations,
Harper is an enemy of science and as such puts our country at risk.
This is a short list and does not include one point that I will address now.
Yesterday during the Pan Am Games - Harper and PR cronies did something that can only be seen as disgraceful.
Harper - as we know - likes photo-ops but does not like scrums. His manipulation of the national press is legendary and has been for the most part been successful. There are exceptions as some journalists fight back. This thankfully is picking up as the election looms.
I have watched some of the games - online - and have enjoyed the medal ceremonies where Canadian athletes accept the adoration and accolades of their fellow citizens.
During these ceremonies two people are assigned to do the presentations. One is from the Pan Am association and the other would be local politicians or first nations representatives. One of the two would present the medal and the other present a stuffed mascot.
Arguably the most watched event at any summer games (Olympics, Commonwealth, Pan Am, Nationals and Worlds) is the men's 100 metre sprint. This interest usually translates into mass media coverage and hype.
Canada's Andre De Grasse was the victor in last night's final and also became a casualty of the Harper PR machine.
Instead of the two person presentation team - this event had three. The normal reps and then there was the third wheel. Bal Gosal Minister of State for Sport who was introduced and then presented the mascot to De Grasse only.
It cheapened and politicized the event and attempted to upstage the amazing performance of De Grasse who may well end up being our greatest male sprinter.
It was a typical Harperization - do not miss capitalizing on the success of anybody. Do not miss a prime time photo-op. The only surprising element of this typical Harper PR was that Gosal was not wearing a Conservative Party of Canada shirt or that the gold medal did not have the CPC logo imprinted on it.
It was odd - uncomfortable - clumsy - and manipulative. It was Harper.
Tuesday, July 21, 2015
STOP before you spend the Universal Child Care Benefit
The Universal Child Care Benefit, blatantly used as political material by the Conservative Party of Canada - may actually have a silver lining.
Before you spend the retroactive cheque - consider how what you spend it on may best benefit your children.
If you use $400 of it to make a political contribution you will get a $300 tax credit. If you donate it to any party other than the CPC - you may very well be making the best investment for your child's future.
If you believe as I do that the CPC is corrupt, deceitful, ethically bankrupt, and a danger to the future of Canada as we used to know it - then that $400 contribution might be the best money you ever spend for the benefit of your children.
Middle class families who find it difficult to find money to help a candidate or party defeat Harper and his cronies - have a unique opportunity to use this CPC taxpayer funded slush fund to do just that.
Just imagine the CPC being inundated with Green Party, NDP, and Liberal ads being funded by the Tories own abuse of taxpayer money.
Imagine getting a T-Shirt saying I used Poilievre's UCCB to defeat the CPC.
You see the $300 tax credit for a $400 contribution may be worth more to you than spending that $400 that you will be taxed on to buy a service or product that you have to pay GST on.
For all those Canadians who believe that Harper must go - consider the above as a real option to create a better future for your child in Canada.
Think before you spend - consider supporting something other than the Conservative Party of Canada.
Before you spend the retroactive cheque - consider how what you spend it on may best benefit your children.
If you use $400 of it to make a political contribution you will get a $300 tax credit. If you donate it to any party other than the CPC - you may very well be making the best investment for your child's future.
If you believe as I do that the CPC is corrupt, deceitful, ethically bankrupt, and a danger to the future of Canada as we used to know it - then that $400 contribution might be the best money you ever spend for the benefit of your children.
Middle class families who find it difficult to find money to help a candidate or party defeat Harper and his cronies - have a unique opportunity to use this CPC taxpayer funded slush fund to do just that.
Just imagine the CPC being inundated with Green Party, NDP, and Liberal ads being funded by the Tories own abuse of taxpayer money.
Imagine getting a T-Shirt saying I used Poilievre's UCCB to defeat the CPC.
You see the $300 tax credit for a $400 contribution may be worth more to you than spending that $400 that you will be taxed on to buy a service or product that you have to pay GST on.
For all those Canadians who believe that Harper must go - consider the above as a real option to create a better future for your child in Canada.
Think before you spend - consider supporting something other than the Conservative Party of Canada.
Is Pierre Poilievre being monitored?
The most obvious example of how blatantly corrupt the Harper government is was on full social media display the past few days.
The Universal Child Care benefit - touted as everything short of the savior of mankind (which it is not) - is being used by the Harper government as a major election plank.
Pierre Poilievre Harper's choice for Minister of Employment and Social Development has taken propaganda, deception, and unethical to a whole new level.
This born again Harperite preaches from the Conservative Party Pulpit wearing a CPC Cassock and expects that thinking Canadians will accept his version of the Harper bible.
In a completely abused Twitter account Poilievre spams the Canadian Twitter-sphere with garbage like: "One more sleep until Christmas in July for Moms and Dads!"
This Minister should be removed from his portfolio and made to apologize to Canadians for ignoring/breaking Treasury Board rules. This extremist should be monitored to insure this zealot is not dangerous to the social well being of Canada. He is knowingly and deliberately ignoring established guidelines and is a Minister of the Crown.
I have no idea - as a Canadian - how far this fellow will go to promote the CPC doctrine - which in and of itself is concerning.
The fellow who once said - "But I can’t accept a union representing public servants working for the government of Canada which forcefully takes money out of the pockets of Canada’s public servants to support parties that want to break up the country. How can it be in the interests of public servants to support the breakup of Canada? - has no problem using government money (our tax dollars) to support a political party.
The fellow who used the term "tar baby" and used foul language in a committee meeting and made unparliamentary gestures - continues to believe he is not out of control.
The fellow who despite his vocal concern on national security did not believe rules applied to him and "got impatient waiting at a Parliament Hill checkpoint and pressed a button to open the security gate and drove his car through without being identified and without having his vehicle inspected."
The fellow who suggested that aboriginals need to learn the value of hard work more than they need financial compensation - should probably apply that thought to himself.
The fellow who when talking about the Fair Elections Act (a complete fiasco) claimed the Chief Electoral Officer wanted "more power, a bigger budget and less accountability." - when Marc Mayrand dared criticize the Act.
It is time that Canadians from coast to coast to coast removed from office - through the election process - this Minister and many more of the CPC zealots.
On another note - the NDP and LPC should remember that the majority of Canadians do not want Harper or the Conservatives re-elected - therefore they should do everything to insure that does not happen. Focusing on their own political lot versus focusing on defeating the CPC is self-serving - not nation-serving.
The Conservatives believe that the collective intelligence of the Canadian public can be mitigated by sending out this Minister who acts like the head cheerleader of a dictator. Listening to him - one wonders if there will be only one name on ballots this fall.
Lastly - while the national media made an attempt to counter the propaganda of the CPC on the Universal Child Care benefit bribe - they continue to fall short on holding Stephen Harper to account. The PM continues to successfully manipulate journalists by avoiding scrums and open interviews.
The national media continues to be a source for parliamentary secretaries to chant CPC propaganda - while hoping to convince Canadians that such rubbish is news.
Is this Minister being monitored?
The Universal Child Care benefit - touted as everything short of the savior of mankind (which it is not) - is being used by the Harper government as a major election plank.
Pierre Poilievre Harper's choice for Minister of Employment and Social Development has taken propaganda, deception, and unethical to a whole new level.
This born again Harperite preaches from the Conservative Party Pulpit wearing a CPC Cassock and expects that thinking Canadians will accept his version of the Harper bible.
In a completely abused Twitter account Poilievre spams the Canadian Twitter-sphere with garbage like: "One more sleep until Christmas in July for Moms and Dads!"
This Minister should be removed from his portfolio and made to apologize to Canadians for ignoring/breaking Treasury Board rules. This extremist should be monitored to insure this zealot is not dangerous to the social well being of Canada. He is knowingly and deliberately ignoring established guidelines and is a Minister of the Crown.
I have no idea - as a Canadian - how far this fellow will go to promote the CPC doctrine - which in and of itself is concerning.
The fellow who once said - "But I can’t accept a union representing public servants working for the government of Canada which forcefully takes money out of the pockets of Canada’s public servants to support parties that want to break up the country. How can it be in the interests of public servants to support the breakup of Canada? - has no problem using government money (our tax dollars) to support a political party.
The fellow who used the term "tar baby" and used foul language in a committee meeting and made unparliamentary gestures - continues to believe he is not out of control.
The fellow who despite his vocal concern on national security did not believe rules applied to him and "got impatient waiting at a Parliament Hill checkpoint and pressed a button to open the security gate and drove his car through without being identified and without having his vehicle inspected."
The fellow who suggested that aboriginals need to learn the value of hard work more than they need financial compensation - should probably apply that thought to himself.
The fellow who when talking about the Fair Elections Act (a complete fiasco) claimed the Chief Electoral Officer wanted "more power, a bigger budget and less accountability." - when Marc Mayrand dared criticize the Act.
It is time that Canadians from coast to coast to coast removed from office - through the election process - this Minister and many more of the CPC zealots.
On another note - the NDP and LPC should remember that the majority of Canadians do not want Harper or the Conservatives re-elected - therefore they should do everything to insure that does not happen. Focusing on their own political lot versus focusing on defeating the CPC is self-serving - not nation-serving.
The Conservatives believe that the collective intelligence of the Canadian public can be mitigated by sending out this Minister who acts like the head cheerleader of a dictator. Listening to him - one wonders if there will be only one name on ballots this fall.
Lastly - while the national media made an attempt to counter the propaganda of the CPC on the Universal Child Care benefit bribe - they continue to fall short on holding Stephen Harper to account. The PM continues to successfully manipulate journalists by avoiding scrums and open interviews.
The national media continues to be a source for parliamentary secretaries to chant CPC propaganda - while hoping to convince Canadians that such rubbish is news.
Is this Minister being monitored?
Tuesday, June 23, 2015
George of the people
George Murphy is leaving politics - our loss - and hopefully his gain.
When I think of our democratic system and the kind of people it should attract - George is the kind of person that comes to mind.
George spent years advising the people on gas and oil prices - for free. He felt it was something that he could do to assist people to reduce or control their living expenses.
George would also participate in talk shows and showed a genuine interest in public service through the political process.
The family guy who loves his kids sat in the House and fought for many things common to most Newfoundlanders and Labradorians. He was and is of the people and for the people. He was humble in his service to the public and felt real privilege at the opportunity to serve.
I found George to be a respectful and considerate individual who also worked well with others and enjoyed listening and learning. He would make a great student should he decide to reach for new academic goals.
Although a Townie - George had no problem relating to rural communities and the beautiful Labrador. I did not agree with all decisions - most particularly support of the Muskrat Falls deal. He did however on balance provide good service to the people and was honourable during his tenure.
George leaves without a pension - and in many ways that's too bad. Some of the nodding head career politicians in the House of Assembly who will receive a pension - deserve it far less than Mr. Murphy.
I don't want to diminish this post on George - but I would be remiss if I didn't add that - George is not the one who should be retiring. Lorraine Michael -"me and my party"- continues to come across as entitled. I do wonder why she chose not to discuss with George the new district and encourage him to take the torch and carry forward.
I believe the provincial NDP momentum just took a hit for two reasons. One is that George is leaving - the other is that Lorraine is staying.
Being able to relate to the majority of people you represent while willing to learn to relate to the rest is a characteristic of George Murphy. In my opinion the exact opposite is true of Lorraine Michael.
I hope to see George back in some public capacity - but in the meantime - I wish him all happiness and success in private life.
See you sometime - out and about.
George's Gas and Oil Blog site PRESS HERE
When I think of our democratic system and the kind of people it should attract - George is the kind of person that comes to mind.
George spent years advising the people on gas and oil prices - for free. He felt it was something that he could do to assist people to reduce or control their living expenses.
George would also participate in talk shows and showed a genuine interest in public service through the political process.
The family guy who loves his kids sat in the House and fought for many things common to most Newfoundlanders and Labradorians. He was and is of the people and for the people. He was humble in his service to the public and felt real privilege at the opportunity to serve.
I found George to be a respectful and considerate individual who also worked well with others and enjoyed listening and learning. He would make a great student should he decide to reach for new academic goals.
Although a Townie - George had no problem relating to rural communities and the beautiful Labrador. I did not agree with all decisions - most particularly support of the Muskrat Falls deal. He did however on balance provide good service to the people and was honourable during his tenure.
George leaves without a pension - and in many ways that's too bad. Some of the nodding head career politicians in the House of Assembly who will receive a pension - deserve it far less than Mr. Murphy.
I don't want to diminish this post on George - but I would be remiss if I didn't add that - George is not the one who should be retiring. Lorraine Michael -"me and my party"- continues to come across as entitled. I do wonder why she chose not to discuss with George the new district and encourage him to take the torch and carry forward.
I believe the provincial NDP momentum just took a hit for two reasons. One is that George is leaving - the other is that Lorraine is staying.
Being able to relate to the majority of people you represent while willing to learn to relate to the rest is a characteristic of George Murphy. In my opinion the exact opposite is true of Lorraine Michael.
I hope to see George back in some public capacity - but in the meantime - I wish him all happiness and success in private life.
See you sometime - out and about.
George's Gas and Oil Blog site PRESS HERE
Tuesday, June 16, 2015
Stephen Harper and Seamus O'Regan
The latest gutless action by our Prime Minister and his party comes in the form of an anti-Seamus O'Regan ad. This is an extension of the Trudeau ads attacking perceived lack of experience.
The Not Ready ad uses a clip from an open interview with an NTV reporter who was covering a political event of O'Regan's.
Harper and the CPC continue to utilize clips of open arena (scrum like) comments or replies to questions by Trudeau and now O'Regan.
This is juvenile - misleading - and therefore just like Stephen Harper.
You see Harper will not do scrums - he hides. Harper will not face an open media on our soil - he hides. Harper will do the photo-op but runs from media questions after - he hides.
Harper's message to Canadians is: I won't be caught making mistakes or even lying - because I know how to hide and I won't scrum. Harper is informing us that he's ready because he will not be scrutinized by the media. Harper is ready because his appearances are produced, choreographed, staged, and restrictive. Harper is ready because he lines up visible minorities behind his photo-op's but will not be scrummed on important issues such as immigration and multiculturalism.
The series of advertisements should be a reminder to us all - the people the CPC are mocking - are only guilty of being accessible. Open appearances allow the voter to see the candidate good and bad. No open appearances mean they are afraid - unwilling to be open and accountable - and essentially undemocratic.
Any one of us could produce an ad which shows a police line-up of Harper appointees. Then perhaps we could segue to a court setting where Minister MacKay is complaining to judges - then finally fade to a debt and deficit chart of Conservative economics.
I am surprised that national media are not asking the Prime Minister for a scrum on his ads.
These ads should serve to do nothing more than remind Canadians that Harper will not answer to the people through open media access.
As for making fun of things done and said in the past - Harper should be the last one seeking to revisit history.
The Not Ready ad uses a clip from an open interview with an NTV reporter who was covering a political event of O'Regan's.
Harper and the CPC continue to utilize clips of open arena (scrum like) comments or replies to questions by Trudeau and now O'Regan.
This is juvenile - misleading - and therefore just like Stephen Harper.
You see Harper will not do scrums - he hides. Harper will not face an open media on our soil - he hides. Harper will do the photo-op but runs from media questions after - he hides.
Harper's message to Canadians is: I won't be caught making mistakes or even lying - because I know how to hide and I won't scrum. Harper is informing us that he's ready because he will not be scrutinized by the media. Harper is ready because his appearances are produced, choreographed, staged, and restrictive. Harper is ready because he lines up visible minorities behind his photo-op's but will not be scrummed on important issues such as immigration and multiculturalism.
The series of advertisements should be a reminder to us all - the people the CPC are mocking - are only guilty of being accessible. Open appearances allow the voter to see the candidate good and bad. No open appearances mean they are afraid - unwilling to be open and accountable - and essentially undemocratic.
Any one of us could produce an ad which shows a police line-up of Harper appointees. Then perhaps we could segue to a court setting where Minister MacKay is complaining to judges - then finally fade to a debt and deficit chart of Conservative economics.
I am surprised that national media are not asking the Prime Minister for a scrum on his ads.
These ads should serve to do nothing more than remind Canadians that Harper will not answer to the people through open media access.
As for making fun of things done and said in the past - Harper should be the last one seeking to revisit history.
Monday, June 01, 2015
Duffy Trial over?
The deal may be made between Crown and Defence in the trial of Senator Mike Duffy.
The only way Stephen Harper is going to eliminate the messiness that is the PMO is to make the Duffy trial go away.
Justice Charles Vaillancourt has allowed a critical Senate Committee report to be entered as evidence.
So if the Senate fights this ruling and is successful - it will be determined that the Defense is being unfairly restricted.
The trial has adjourned today with witnesses now set to testify tomorrow.
Will tomorrow ever come - and if so will it be a short one?
It appears the raising of the report may work as well for Stephen Harper as it does for Mike Duffy.
This may have been all planned with negotiations just complete.
Win win for the CPC and buddies and lose lose for the people of Canada.
The trial of Mike Duffy may well be over before we - the people - had a chance to hear witnesses like Nigel Wright.
This is justice right?
The only way Stephen Harper is going to eliminate the messiness that is the PMO is to make the Duffy trial go away.
Justice Charles Vaillancourt has allowed a critical Senate Committee report to be entered as evidence.
So if the Senate fights this ruling and is successful - it will be determined that the Defense is being unfairly restricted.
The trial has adjourned today with witnesses now set to testify tomorrow.
Will tomorrow ever come - and if so will it be a short one?
It appears the raising of the report may work as well for Stephen Harper as it does for Mike Duffy.
This may have been all planned with negotiations just complete.
Win win for the CPC and buddies and lose lose for the people of Canada.
The trial of Mike Duffy may well be over before we - the people - had a chance to hear witnesses like Nigel Wright.
This is justice right?
Thursday, May 21, 2015
Tories crushed in new polling numbers
It's polling time again - where CRA quarterly polling should be in the field.
I am satisfied however to reveal information from other scientific polling which has been taking place over the past couple of weeks.
I have seen the information myself and it's showing that the PC's are now in third place.
The information shows the Tories in the teens - chasing the NDP for second. The Liberals remain in the lead.
It also shows that support for Danny Williams as the best leader for the PC party sits at over 60% with female voters support for the former Premier at over 70%. Davis is comes in at 12% with Kent at 7%. The Tories have not taken to their new leader.
On the issue of when our next election should be - close to 50% wanted it before now or this summer while 40% are willing to wait until the fall. There is NO appetite to extend beyond September.
The polling also shows Earl McCurdy is quickly catching Paul Davis as second choice for Premier. Dwight Ball remains in the lead as choice for Premier.
If these numbers reflect reality - and I believe they do - this government does not have the moral authority to keep governing and a summer election should be held.
These polls have sampled over a thousand Newfoundlanders and Labradorians and the numbers do not look good for the PC's.
It certainly answers why MHA Sandy Collins has been trash talking on Twitter and why the NDP appears to be aiming at the Liberals.
The PC's are protesting too much about the Liberal platform - it is telling me that the numbers I have reviewed are accurate.
I am satisfied however to reveal information from other scientific polling which has been taking place over the past couple of weeks.
I have seen the information myself and it's showing that the PC's are now in third place.
The information shows the Tories in the teens - chasing the NDP for second. The Liberals remain in the lead.
It also shows that support for Danny Williams as the best leader for the PC party sits at over 60% with female voters support for the former Premier at over 70%. Davis is comes in at 12% with Kent at 7%. The Tories have not taken to their new leader.
On the issue of when our next election should be - close to 50% wanted it before now or this summer while 40% are willing to wait until the fall. There is NO appetite to extend beyond September.
The polling also shows Earl McCurdy is quickly catching Paul Davis as second choice for Premier. Dwight Ball remains in the lead as choice for Premier.
If these numbers reflect reality - and I believe they do - this government does not have the moral authority to keep governing and a summer election should be held.
These polls have sampled over a thousand Newfoundlanders and Labradorians and the numbers do not look good for the PC's.
It certainly answers why MHA Sandy Collins has been trash talking on Twitter and why the NDP appears to be aiming at the Liberals.
The PC's are protesting too much about the Liberal platform - it is telling me that the numbers I have reviewed are accurate.
Tuesday, May 19, 2015
Something's Up in #nlpoli
Hold on to your hats Newfoundlanders and Labradorians - political news will be rocking the boat soon.
Let's see how Paul Davis clinging to power is working out.
I wonder how the killing of Don Dunphy is affecting people?
How about the budget fiasco?
Is a Muskrat going to cause a real stink/sink for the Tories.
Has the Alberta trouncing of the Tories made its way to Newfoundland and Labrador.
Do the Tories miss Danny Williams and how do they like his replacement?
Keeping Steve Kent on the front line may be causing more erosion.
Newfoundland and Labrador Tory politics is going through tough change.
Tory times are hard times - is about to become - Tory times are past times.
Sue's Blog will be making some bold predictions before the next CRA poll.
Let's see how Paul Davis clinging to power is working out.
I wonder how the killing of Don Dunphy is affecting people?
How about the budget fiasco?
Is a Muskrat going to cause a real stink/sink for the Tories.
Has the Alberta trouncing of the Tories made its way to Newfoundland and Labrador.
Do the Tories miss Danny Williams and how do they like his replacement?
Keeping Steve Kent on the front line may be causing more erosion.
Newfoundland and Labrador Tory politics is going through tough change.
Tory times are hard times - is about to become - Tory times are past times.
Sue's Blog will be making some bold predictions before the next CRA poll.
Saturday, November 15, 2014
Danny's Coatails for by-election?
The political future for PC's in Newfoundland and Labrador is pretty grim. Now there's subtle and not so subtle moves by the Tories that demonstrate how bad the situation is.
Many of us were wondering why Tom Marshall - the fellow who did not want to stay around anymore - was taking so much time to leave. Timing in politics is everything - we often hear - and I guess this is a good example.
Make no mistake there are still some political strategists left in the diminished Tory house - and in my opinion - they made the call on Marshall's retirement.
Humber East is the one the PC's will throw everything at to hold and they appear to have dipped back into a familiar well. Tom Marshall announced his resignation Monday - November 3rd. Uncharacteristically - Premier Paul Davis announced the by-election for the district the same day. The government that usually takes its time (subject to legislation) in calling by-elections was swift in this case.
The Tories were definitely timing Marshall's departure and were ready when he did.
What happened next?
Well on November 12th with the by-election in full swing - the screening of "Danny" is at the Arts and Culture Centre in Corner Brook with an audience full of prospective voters.
The glorification of all that is "Danny" their former MHA and Premier was there - in the flesh - saying things like - “To come here tonight was like coming home”.
Better yet - an always fawning media willing to entertain a Q&A session with Williams - including political banter - and to "report" on his political comments. Here are a few excerpts from the Telegram
1. While saying he is staying out of today’s political scene, in true Williams style, he offered his support to Larry Wells, the Conservative candidate trying to hold on to the Humber East seat in an upcoming by-election.“Hello Larry, wherever you are out there,” he said.
2. However, he said he’s not ready to concede a Conservative defeat. “They all, like me, have a genuine love for this wonderful place in which we live,” he said of party candidates and leaders.
3. “I’m a big believer that it doesn’t have to be fracked in order to find it,” he announced to the crowd. “I am not advocating fracking. If there is petroleum there that we can access normally, and I do believe it is there on the west coast.”
4. “To come here tonight was like coming home,” he said. “To put (the film) in front of them and say, ‘you have been a big part of this.’”
5. Danny Williams says he has no real regrets from his political tenure, but he admits he would have liked to have seen more things to ignite the economy on the west coast of the province.
Here are my questions:
1. When was the booking made for the Corner Brook Arts and Culture Centre for the screening?
2. When did the Tories become aware of that date?
3. Was Tom Marshall's dragged out (despite the groaning) retirement - and by-election call - timed with the screening of the film during the campaign?
4. Did the PC's ask Danny Williams to do a bit of campaigning at the screening?
Outside of this observation - I note the careful footing around economic growth in the district during Danny's tenure. His on-again off-again "home" had to be gently almost with humility asked to believe in a PC resurrection.
What an insult to the people this was and is.
Another excerpt from the Telegram article:
He thanked the audience for that 2001 by-election win in Humber East, which he claimed launched his entire tenure.
Well - how nice - they launched his political career - so he went home and then did so again to launch his film.
Meanwhile the hospital - you know the hospital - yes that hospital - maybe changing hospital - need more design hospital - need to change the services hospital - is NOT built. On the bright side - they did get a Court House - what's it called again? Oh yes - I remember - the Danny Williams building.
So thanks for what you've done for me - but by the way can you do one more thing? Elect another PC.
He asked the people in former Premier Dunderdale's riding of Virginia Waters to do it. Now he wants the good people of Humber East to do it.
Never forget though - all this could not have happened right? - Cause Williams believes when Premiers leave office they should stay out of it - shut their mouths - right?
Many of us were wondering why Tom Marshall - the fellow who did not want to stay around anymore - was taking so much time to leave. Timing in politics is everything - we often hear - and I guess this is a good example.
Make no mistake there are still some political strategists left in the diminished Tory house - and in my opinion - they made the call on Marshall's retirement.
Humber East is the one the PC's will throw everything at to hold and they appear to have dipped back into a familiar well. Tom Marshall announced his resignation Monday - November 3rd. Uncharacteristically - Premier Paul Davis announced the by-election for the district the same day. The government that usually takes its time (subject to legislation) in calling by-elections was swift in this case.
The Tories were definitely timing Marshall's departure and were ready when he did.
What happened next?
Well on November 12th with the by-election in full swing - the screening of "Danny" is at the Arts and Culture Centre in Corner Brook with an audience full of prospective voters.
The glorification of all that is "Danny" their former MHA and Premier was there - in the flesh - saying things like - “To come here tonight was like coming home”.
Better yet - an always fawning media willing to entertain a Q&A session with Williams - including political banter - and to "report" on his political comments. Here are a few excerpts from the Telegram
1. While saying he is staying out of today’s political scene, in true Williams style, he offered his support to Larry Wells, the Conservative candidate trying to hold on to the Humber East seat in an upcoming by-election.“Hello Larry, wherever you are out there,” he said.
2. However, he said he’s not ready to concede a Conservative defeat. “They all, like me, have a genuine love for this wonderful place in which we live,” he said of party candidates and leaders.
3. “I’m a big believer that it doesn’t have to be fracked in order to find it,” he announced to the crowd. “I am not advocating fracking. If there is petroleum there that we can access normally, and I do believe it is there on the west coast.”
4. “To come here tonight was like coming home,” he said. “To put (the film) in front of them and say, ‘you have been a big part of this.’”
5. Danny Williams says he has no real regrets from his political tenure, but he admits he would have liked to have seen more things to ignite the economy on the west coast of the province.
Here are my questions:
1. When was the booking made for the Corner Brook Arts and Culture Centre for the screening?
2. When did the Tories become aware of that date?
3. Was Tom Marshall's dragged out (despite the groaning) retirement - and by-election call - timed with the screening of the film during the campaign?
4. Did the PC's ask Danny Williams to do a bit of campaigning at the screening?
Outside of this observation - I note the careful footing around economic growth in the district during Danny's tenure. His on-again off-again "home" had to be gently almost with humility asked to believe in a PC resurrection.
What an insult to the people this was and is.
Another excerpt from the Telegram article:
He thanked the audience for that 2001 by-election win in Humber East, which he claimed launched his entire tenure.
Well - how nice - they launched his political career - so he went home and then did so again to launch his film.
Meanwhile the hospital - you know the hospital - yes that hospital - maybe changing hospital - need more design hospital - need to change the services hospital - is NOT built. On the bright side - they did get a Court House - what's it called again? Oh yes - I remember - the Danny Williams building.
So thanks for what you've done for me - but by the way can you do one more thing? Elect another PC.
He asked the people in former Premier Dunderdale's riding of Virginia Waters to do it. Now he wants the good people of Humber East to do it.
Never forget though - all this could not have happened right? - Cause Williams believes when Premiers leave office they should stay out of it - shut their mouths - right?
Friday, October 24, 2014
Conservative disgrace!
I visited friends this evening and during the course of our discussion over tea - what they told me was unbelievable.
At approximately 2:30 pm today Newfoundland and Labrador time - they received a call from 709-702-8496. On the other end of the phone was a representative of the Conservative Party of Canada's "customer care" line looking for a political donation. First the caller asked if perhaps the person would like to donate $100 and then after a "no thank you" reply asked perhaps if $50 would be better - and after a further "no thank you" suggested $35 to which he received the same reply. He then asked my friends what they would like to contribute - they responded nothing - not interested.
What followed next was appalling - the Conservative representative then suggested that my friends should really reconsider - and why was that? Well imagine if Trudeau had been the Prime Minister in the week that we just had....and on it went.
So on the day that the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier was reopened and 2 new guards took their places - and on the day that the procession of Corporal Nathan Cirillo carried his body home from Ottawa to Hamilton - the Conservatives felt this was an ideal time to fund raise?
This is a disgrace.
So while Canadians were paying tribute to a fine young man - the Conservatives wanted some cash?
This is a disgrace.
At approximately 2:30 pm today Newfoundland and Labrador time - they received a call from 709-702-8496. On the other end of the phone was a representative of the Conservative Party of Canada's "customer care" line looking for a political donation. First the caller asked if perhaps the person would like to donate $100 and then after a "no thank you" reply asked perhaps if $50 would be better - and after a further "no thank you" suggested $35 to which he received the same reply. He then asked my friends what they would like to contribute - they responded nothing - not interested.
What followed next was appalling - the Conservative representative then suggested that my friends should really reconsider - and why was that? Well imagine if Trudeau had been the Prime Minister in the week that we just had....and on it went.
So on the day that the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier was reopened and 2 new guards took their places - and on the day that the procession of Corporal Nathan Cirillo carried his body home from Ottawa to Hamilton - the Conservatives felt this was an ideal time to fund raise?
This is a disgrace.
So while Canadians were paying tribute to a fine young man - the Conservatives wanted some cash?
This is a disgrace.
Thursday, October 02, 2014
Davis - putting lipstick on a pig?
As the bogeyman can be either gender - the use of the word should not cause sexist issues. Now as our new "unelected" Attorney General raised the topic of fear - I should not be accused of being nasty.
Judy Manning believes that criticism of her appointment is coming from the Opposition Parties as they are "threatened by the Progressive Conservative Government". Telegram story HERE
I would "with respect" reword that to read the electorate is threatened by the Progressive Conservative Government.
Threatened by the mounting debt,
Threatened by the unfunded pension liabilities,
Threatened by the Muskrat Falls project and escalating energy costs,
Threatened by scandal such as the Humber Valley Paving Contract,
Threatened by the erosion of democratic conventions,
Threatened by the level of patronage that continues,
Threatened by the continued loss of industry,
Threatened by our population statistics,
Threatened by the loss of the Justice Department,
Threatened by an "unelected" Attorney General who makes decisions based on her emotions (my heart is in the Placentia - St.Mary's District so I can't run anywhere else)
Threatened by the continued loss of rural communities, and
Threatened by the arrogance and disrespect this government has toward the people of the province.
If the whole idea of Ms. Manning's appointment was to frighten the Opposition - then I guess they are relying on the introduction of a bogeyman to frighten the critics into better behaviour.
Considering Ms. Manning brought up the topic of threatened let's look at why the PC's are making "innovative" changes to our democracy. Paul Davis is going to be different - see - look what he did. He plucked a well-connected Tory unelected out of a sole practitioner law office and threw her into a new Department of Public Safety. Furthermore - just to be different our "unelected" Premier chose somebody who was afraid to run in any of the by-elections. Then - just to be different he accepted the resignation of one Minister (who he would have fired anyway) and left another Minister named in the HVP report right where he was. Additionally - just to be different - he found that Labrador was without a Minister so - he plucked arguably the most controversial and bad-tempered off the backbench and presented him to the electorate as a changed man. Lastly he wanted to up the number of women in government - so he ignored an elected woman and went out and found one that he thought was more worthy of a Cabinet post?
One can only reasonably believe that Davis made such outrageous choices in a desperate attempt to put lipstick on a pig. Or if you prefer -You can't make a silk purse from a sow's ear. The end product is the same.
How about we outline why the PC government feels threatened:
1. The polls,
2. The by-election losses,
3. The defections or resignations of key Cabinet and caucus people,
4. The acrimonious mess of a failed first leadership race,
5. The divisive actions of Deputy Premier Steve Kent during the second leadership contest,
6. The very loud criticism from Progressive Conservatives,
7. The weak backbench (as evidenced by the "unelected" Premier's recent Cabinet shuffle),
8. Continued failure to communicate or continued failure of decisions,
9. The numbers of people showing up to vote for Liberal nominations in Tory districts, and
10. The growing voice of the people demanding both an election and a judicial inquiry on HVP.
Please just call an election - so we can sort this out. Let's see who the people want and don't want.
Judy Manning believes that criticism of her appointment is coming from the Opposition Parties as they are "threatened by the Progressive Conservative Government". Telegram story HERE
I would "with respect" reword that to read the electorate is threatened by the Progressive Conservative Government.
Threatened by the mounting debt,
Threatened by the unfunded pension liabilities,
Threatened by the Muskrat Falls project and escalating energy costs,
Threatened by scandal such as the Humber Valley Paving Contract,
Threatened by the erosion of democratic conventions,
Threatened by the level of patronage that continues,
Threatened by the continued loss of industry,
Threatened by our population statistics,
Threatened by the loss of the Justice Department,
Threatened by an "unelected" Attorney General who makes decisions based on her emotions (my heart is in the Placentia - St.Mary's District so I can't run anywhere else)
Threatened by the continued loss of rural communities, and
Threatened by the arrogance and disrespect this government has toward the people of the province.
If the whole idea of Ms. Manning's appointment was to frighten the Opposition - then I guess they are relying on the introduction of a bogeyman to frighten the critics into better behaviour.
Considering Ms. Manning brought up the topic of threatened let's look at why the PC's are making "innovative" changes to our democracy. Paul Davis is going to be different - see - look what he did. He plucked a well-connected Tory unelected out of a sole practitioner law office and threw her into a new Department of Public Safety. Furthermore - just to be different our "unelected" Premier chose somebody who was afraid to run in any of the by-elections. Then - just to be different he accepted the resignation of one Minister (who he would have fired anyway) and left another Minister named in the HVP report right where he was. Additionally - just to be different - he found that Labrador was without a Minister so - he plucked arguably the most controversial and bad-tempered off the backbench and presented him to the electorate as a changed man. Lastly he wanted to up the number of women in government - so he ignored an elected woman and went out and found one that he thought was more worthy of a Cabinet post?
One can only reasonably believe that Davis made such outrageous choices in a desperate attempt to put lipstick on a pig. Or if you prefer -You can't make a silk purse from a sow's ear. The end product is the same.
How about we outline why the PC government feels threatened:
1. The polls,
2. The by-election losses,
3. The defections or resignations of key Cabinet and caucus people,
4. The acrimonious mess of a failed first leadership race,
5. The divisive actions of Deputy Premier Steve Kent during the second leadership contest,
6. The very loud criticism from Progressive Conservatives,
7. The weak backbench (as evidenced by the "unelected" Premier's recent Cabinet shuffle),
8. Continued failure to communicate or continued failure of decisions,
9. The numbers of people showing up to vote for Liberal nominations in Tory districts, and
10. The growing voice of the people demanding both an election and a judicial inquiry on HVP.
Please just call an election - so we can sort this out. Let's see who the people want and don't want.
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