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....
Showing posts with label Peter MacKay. Show all posts
Showing posts with label Peter MacKay. Show all posts
Friday, November 06, 2015
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.
Saturday, May 30, 2015
Canada's National Media - News or Propaganda?
I would like to scrum the national media. I would like to ask
questions about their coverage of "news" and of their editorial
decisions. I would like to grill the assignment editors and get reasons
for their choices.
Yesterday I watched a Harper orchestrated media fest and watched our Prime Minister do what he does best - direct our national media outlets as he sees fit. The fact that our media complies is another issue and one that should concern all Canadians.
The federal election is in October and the Conservative Party Script is unfolding.
Yesterday morning many of us were alerted - on Twitter - that Peter MacKay was "resigning". This set the stage for the all-day puppy like behavior of our national "journalists".
Next we were told that the RCMP had released the remainder (18 seconds) of the video left by the deceased Parliament Hill shooter. This too began a Pavlovian like fear conditioning of the voting public. The timing of the release begs questions that were not forthcoming.
Today Canada's media stopped being journalistic and became part of the Conservative Party of Canada narrative.
The media - for a brief second - mused that the 18 second video release was not much more than what had already been released. Regardless of that assessment - the media then spent half the nation's daily media time to talk about ISIS, terror, war, and national defence.
With regard to the MacKay story - Canada's national media spent an entire day predicting, chasing, and musing on the announcement that the CPC co-founder and PC defector was not going to run again. This of course became frenzied once it was determined that the Prime Minister was going to attend the "announcement".
Oh good I thought - finally the media would trap the Prime Minister in Nova Scotia and scrum him. That hope was quickly dashed when I recognized the choreography unfolding. Harper spoke first - then MacKay - then a tea - and finally Peter MacKay gave a scrum. Prime Minister Harper - once again - used the media for free campaign advertising. You see the PM began and ended with CPC talking points on the government's "accomplishments" - without one second for the media to question him on those statements. That is not news. That is propaganda.
Peter MacKay is not running again because he "loves his family more". As a senior Cabinet Minister and long time MP a News Release was warranted and could be noted by the media. What we got however was a soap opera of the entire MacKay family - probably best kept for a thank-you party for his dedicated volunteers - in private.
We are without a fully functioning fourth estate - making the fifth estate more important now than ever before.
It is now suggested by noted academics that bloggers, social media, and non-mainstream forums are the fifth estate. READ MORE HERE
It is time that our national media refuse to cover photo-ops and prepared self-serving events of the Prime Minister until he opens himself up to proper media scrutiny. It is time that we challenged our mainstream national media. We have the social media tools and technology and we must use these to protect our democracy.
We must have the courage to challenge our media and hold them to account as we would our politicians. There is no doubt there are some in the mainstream media that can be as vindictive and petty as the worst of our hyper-partisan elected officials. Some spend more time attacking the general public on social media than they spend keeping our MP's honest. There are journalists in our country who maintain professional standards and understand the important role they play in our society. Ironically - many of them have turned to blogs and use of social media to free themselves of outside or inside (management/executive) influence.
Twitter, Facebook, and Blogs all enable the citizens of Canada to communicate with one another and share opinions, information, and ideas - with relative ease. We can now utilize more resources to get the news of the day and different spins of it.
With these relatively new communications tools - people are seeing the mainstream media in a new light. The national news broadcasters, national papers, and news magazines are seen as one source of news not the only source. Breaking news often comes from citizen reporter and often provides evidence in the case of criminal activity.
Political events have changed as live tweeting occurs during the affair. What a politician says one day can be replayed at a moments notice. Budget documents - legislation - the Hansard and talk shows - all easily accessible.
Some journalists have embraced this new communications era. They supplement and improve their own material with information from social media. Sadly others dismiss bloggers, tweeters and citizen reporters. They actually spend work time attempting to marginalize people - ironically the same people they want to support their work.
So yesterday was a banner day for mainstream media. Mackay's announcement that he was not going to seek election again was given coverage usually reserved for a second coming. Just to pump the CPC a little more - they threw in 18 seconds of video that added nothing substantial to what we citizens have already seen regarding the Parliament Hill shooting.
Yesterday was Stephen Harper's day - orchestrated and directed. We were subjected to hours of propaganda and free CPC advertising.
Paid political pundits and "journalists" going on about Peter MacKay and his love of family. I would hope that all our politicians have such love and that all politicians do not find it necessary to bail on public service when they have a family.
When my children were young - I spent a period of time working full-time - raising two wonderful children (now wonderful adults) and on the side spending 30-40 hours a week for 2 years trying to stop the privatization of hydro. I am not alone - there are parents out there doing the same thing everyday - some having to work three jobs to support their families. We have thousands of volunteers giving of themselves while raising children and earning income.
The media should know that a cardiologist putting in 80 hour weeks so others may live to be with their families - retire without a word - let alone a Prime Ministerial visit and speaking engagement.
As for Peter's body of work - well after they dispensed with his political pedigree (the history of Elmer) they spoke ad nauseam about his portfolios and importance in the political history of Canada. The fathers of Confederation had nothing on Steve and Pete. MacKay's body of work has for the most part been a failure. I cannot speak to the benefits received directly by his district - but looking at his national contribution he has been a failure.
1. The first order of his business was to be slimy - how did he win the PC leadership? What did he swear not to do?
2. Pesky helicopters.
3. Questionable comments about women - (judges, lawyers, past girlfriend).
4. Extreme right-wing "family" values. Marriage, Right to die, or how about a woman's right to choose which political party she'd like to support?
5. Complete dismissal or ignorance of our Constitution.
6. “far-fetched hypothetical scenario” he says while condemning the Supreme Court of Canada (arrogant much?)
7. "life cycles" of F-35's fiasco.
8. Harper's lieutenant (wow) there's a plus
The mainstream media did a complete disservice to the public yesterday and once again showed how fearful or supportive they are of Harper. The Prime Minister who ducks debates, ducks scrums, ducks first Minister's conferences, and ducks real democracy - pulled the strings of our national media yet again.
Yesterday I watched a Harper orchestrated media fest and watched our Prime Minister do what he does best - direct our national media outlets as he sees fit. The fact that our media complies is another issue and one that should concern all Canadians.
The federal election is in October and the Conservative Party Script is unfolding.
Yesterday morning many of us were alerted - on Twitter - that Peter MacKay was "resigning". This set the stage for the all-day puppy like behavior of our national "journalists".
Next we were told that the RCMP had released the remainder (18 seconds) of the video left by the deceased Parliament Hill shooter. This too began a Pavlovian like fear conditioning of the voting public. The timing of the release begs questions that were not forthcoming.
Today Canada's media stopped being journalistic and became part of the Conservative Party of Canada narrative.
The media - for a brief second - mused that the 18 second video release was not much more than what had already been released. Regardless of that assessment - the media then spent half the nation's daily media time to talk about ISIS, terror, war, and national defence.
With regard to the MacKay story - Canada's national media spent an entire day predicting, chasing, and musing on the announcement that the CPC co-founder and PC defector was not going to run again. This of course became frenzied once it was determined that the Prime Minister was going to attend the "announcement".
Oh good I thought - finally the media would trap the Prime Minister in Nova Scotia and scrum him. That hope was quickly dashed when I recognized the choreography unfolding. Harper spoke first - then MacKay - then a tea - and finally Peter MacKay gave a scrum. Prime Minister Harper - once again - used the media for free campaign advertising. You see the PM began and ended with CPC talking points on the government's "accomplishments" - without one second for the media to question him on those statements. That is not news. That is propaganda.
Peter MacKay is not running again because he "loves his family more". As a senior Cabinet Minister and long time MP a News Release was warranted and could be noted by the media. What we got however was a soap opera of the entire MacKay family - probably best kept for a thank-you party for his dedicated volunteers - in private.
We are without a fully functioning fourth estate - making the fifth estate more important now than ever before.
It is now suggested by noted academics that bloggers, social media, and non-mainstream forums are the fifth estate. READ MORE HERE
It is time that our national media refuse to cover photo-ops and prepared self-serving events of the Prime Minister until he opens himself up to proper media scrutiny. It is time that we challenged our mainstream national media. We have the social media tools and technology and we must use these to protect our democracy.
We must have the courage to challenge our media and hold them to account as we would our politicians. There is no doubt there are some in the mainstream media that can be as vindictive and petty as the worst of our hyper-partisan elected officials. Some spend more time attacking the general public on social media than they spend keeping our MP's honest. There are journalists in our country who maintain professional standards and understand the important role they play in our society. Ironically - many of them have turned to blogs and use of social media to free themselves of outside or inside (management/executive) influence.
Twitter, Facebook, and Blogs all enable the citizens of Canada to communicate with one another and share opinions, information, and ideas - with relative ease. We can now utilize more resources to get the news of the day and different spins of it.
With these relatively new communications tools - people are seeing the mainstream media in a new light. The national news broadcasters, national papers, and news magazines are seen as one source of news not the only source. Breaking news often comes from citizen reporter and often provides evidence in the case of criminal activity.
Political events have changed as live tweeting occurs during the affair. What a politician says one day can be replayed at a moments notice. Budget documents - legislation - the Hansard and talk shows - all easily accessible.
Some journalists have embraced this new communications era. They supplement and improve their own material with information from social media. Sadly others dismiss bloggers, tweeters and citizen reporters. They actually spend work time attempting to marginalize people - ironically the same people they want to support their work.
So yesterday was a banner day for mainstream media. Mackay's announcement that he was not going to seek election again was given coverage usually reserved for a second coming. Just to pump the CPC a little more - they threw in 18 seconds of video that added nothing substantial to what we citizens have already seen regarding the Parliament Hill shooting.
Yesterday was Stephen Harper's day - orchestrated and directed. We were subjected to hours of propaganda and free CPC advertising.
Paid political pundits and "journalists" going on about Peter MacKay and his love of family. I would hope that all our politicians have such love and that all politicians do not find it necessary to bail on public service when they have a family.
When my children were young - I spent a period of time working full-time - raising two wonderful children (now wonderful adults) and on the side spending 30-40 hours a week for 2 years trying to stop the privatization of hydro. I am not alone - there are parents out there doing the same thing everyday - some having to work three jobs to support their families. We have thousands of volunteers giving of themselves while raising children and earning income.
The media should know that a cardiologist putting in 80 hour weeks so others may live to be with their families - retire without a word - let alone a Prime Ministerial visit and speaking engagement.
As for Peter's body of work - well after they dispensed with his political pedigree (the history of Elmer) they spoke ad nauseam about his portfolios and importance in the political history of Canada. The fathers of Confederation had nothing on Steve and Pete. MacKay's body of work has for the most part been a failure. I cannot speak to the benefits received directly by his district - but looking at his national contribution he has been a failure.
1. The first order of his business was to be slimy - how did he win the PC leadership? What did he swear not to do?
2. Pesky helicopters.
3. Questionable comments about women - (judges, lawyers, past girlfriend).
4. Extreme right-wing "family" values. Marriage, Right to die, or how about a woman's right to choose which political party she'd like to support?
5. Complete dismissal or ignorance of our Constitution.
6. “far-fetched hypothetical scenario” he says while condemning the Supreme Court of Canada (arrogant much?)
7. "life cycles" of F-35's fiasco.
8. Harper's lieutenant (wow) there's a plus
The mainstream media did a complete disservice to the public yesterday and once again showed how fearful or supportive they are of Harper. The Prime Minister who ducks debates, ducks scrums, ducks first Minister's conferences, and ducks real democracy - pulled the strings of our national media yet again.
Wednesday, August 07, 2013
Ross Reid - bringing down another PC Party?
Yesterday - the big announcement from the White House on the Parkway - Ross Reid becomes new Chief of Staff for Premier Dunderdale.
More curious - however - were his duties in the "new" role.
Rossie is apparently going to play a "key role in policy development".
Is that what a Chief of Staff does?
How about Rossie has always been involved in policy and has been involved in much of the mess this government has produced?
He moves smoothly from politician to democracy fighter to "adviser" to Williams/Dunderdale - then pops out of his job - we pay him for - to run election campaigns - then hops back to a government position again. Well now he is the Chief of Staff - what will that mean to us - the people who pay his salary?
1. Select and supervise (control) staff?
2. Control access to the Premier's office? that should be good...
3. Manage communications and flow of information? kind of like a Bill 29 human back-up
4. Negotiate with different departments - or external groups to achieve Dunderdale's agenda? (protect the Muskrat Falls development)
Rossie is now at the beck and call of the Premier? My guess he's running the place and has been for a while. The question is will Rossie use his experience in "allegedly" helping to democratize regimes such as Afghanistan - to allow democracy back in our province?
Please advise us - Madame Premier - Queen of the Muskrat - what has Ross Reid done for the past decade and what will he be doing differently now? Details please...
For people like Kent and Lane - Reid's new title might bring them brief but needed hope that their parties death may have been greatly exaggerated and for the ladies in waiting Shea and Sullivan - Ross may provide a brief relief from the Premier's busy social agenda (Garden parties - where they present and restate already committed dollars, festivals where they can sing their own praises, BBQ's where the roasting is more friendly, or travelling the world in search of Waldo).
Rossie's Policies - that has the potential to be an ward winning election jingle - Perhaps VOCM could have one of the talk shows sponsored by Rossie's Policies.
Perhaps the people who elected Bonnie Hickey knew something I didn't know at the time. Perhaps they knew the real Ross Reid - perhaps they knew he should have gone away with the Mulroney PC's. He was at one time the "advisor" to Mulroney right? Perhaps Ross can become "National Director" of the NL PC's? Perhaps Ross can be part of another destruction of a Progressive Conservative Party? Not to worry with people like Kent, King, and Kennedy the CARP (Conservative Alliance Reform Party) of NL might be right around the corner. Maybe Len Simms can play the "MacKay" role this time round.
More curious - however - were his duties in the "new" role.
Rossie is apparently going to play a "key role in policy development".
Is that what a Chief of Staff does?
How about Rossie has always been involved in policy and has been involved in much of the mess this government has produced?
He moves smoothly from politician to democracy fighter to "adviser" to Williams/Dunderdale - then pops out of his job - we pay him for - to run election campaigns - then hops back to a government position again. Well now he is the Chief of Staff - what will that mean to us - the people who pay his salary?
1. Select and supervise (control) staff?
2. Control access to the Premier's office? that should be good...
3. Manage communications and flow of information? kind of like a Bill 29 human back-up
4. Negotiate with different departments - or external groups to achieve Dunderdale's agenda? (protect the Muskrat Falls development)
Rossie is now at the beck and call of the Premier? My guess he's running the place and has been for a while. The question is will Rossie use his experience in "allegedly" helping to democratize regimes such as Afghanistan - to allow democracy back in our province?
Please advise us - Madame Premier - Queen of the Muskrat - what has Ross Reid done for the past decade and what will he be doing differently now? Details please...
For people like Kent and Lane - Reid's new title might bring them brief but needed hope that their parties death may have been greatly exaggerated and for the ladies in waiting Shea and Sullivan - Ross may provide a brief relief from the Premier's busy social agenda (Garden parties - where they present and restate already committed dollars, festivals where they can sing their own praises, BBQ's where the roasting is more friendly, or travelling the world in search of Waldo).
Rossie's Policies - that has the potential to be an ward winning election jingle - Perhaps VOCM could have one of the talk shows sponsored by Rossie's Policies.
Perhaps the people who elected Bonnie Hickey knew something I didn't know at the time. Perhaps they knew the real Ross Reid - perhaps they knew he should have gone away with the Mulroney PC's. He was at one time the "advisor" to Mulroney right? Perhaps Ross can become "National Director" of the NL PC's? Perhaps Ross can be part of another destruction of a Progressive Conservative Party? Not to worry with people like Kent, King, and Kennedy the CARP (Conservative Alliance Reform Party) of NL might be right around the corner. Maybe Len Simms can play the "MacKay" role this time round.
Tuesday, May 07, 2013
Peter MacKay visits Peter Penashue in the land of Nod
Peter MacKay is piece of work - of that there can be no doubt.
Peter MacKay the defected PC - the king maker - the opportunist.
So in he comes to Newfoundland and Labrador with federal bucks and a promise of a Cabinet Post for Peter Penashue.
Why he asks would anybody vote for any other than Peter Penashue (the election cheat)?
Don't the people of Labrador know that they really don't have a choice? Don't they know that an Opposition member is worthless and just "...maybe get to yell at the government two or three times a week in question period..."?
The election is all a folly thinks Peter MacKay - we don't live in a democracy and only god Harper has control. If you want anything in Labrador - you had better rescue Peter P from the land of Nod.
Attack ads on Mr. Trudeau - flyer's in mail boxes - attempted and somewhat successful control of the media. Harper and his man-in-waiting see no value to our electoral system - no value in our democracy?
How should we perceive this then? There is no need for Opposition members in Canada? There is no role for anybody but a member on the Government side? They demonstrably don't mind election act violations or attempting to buy people with their own money.
I think the people of Labrador will decide what they want and Peter MacKay just made it much more palatable to vote anything but Penashue.
With the Burton Winters tragedy still fresh in all our minds - continued failed promises to Labradorians - and now the attempt to force play a vote - I think Peter MacKay has just guaranteed a loss.
Vote Labrador Vote - for whoever in your minds deserves it.
Peter MacKay the defected PC - the king maker - the opportunist.
So in he comes to Newfoundland and Labrador with federal bucks and a promise of a Cabinet Post for Peter Penashue.
Why he asks would anybody vote for any other than Peter Penashue (the election cheat)?
Don't the people of Labrador know that they really don't have a choice? Don't they know that an Opposition member is worthless and just "...maybe get to yell at the government two or three times a week in question period..."?
The election is all a folly thinks Peter MacKay - we don't live in a democracy and only god Harper has control. If you want anything in Labrador - you had better rescue Peter P from the land of Nod.
Attack ads on Mr. Trudeau - flyer's in mail boxes - attempted and somewhat successful control of the media. Harper and his man-in-waiting see no value to our electoral system - no value in our democracy?
How should we perceive this then? There is no need for Opposition members in Canada? There is no role for anybody but a member on the Government side? They demonstrably don't mind election act violations or attempting to buy people with their own money.
I think the people of Labrador will decide what they want and Peter MacKay just made it much more palatable to vote anything but Penashue.
With the Burton Winters tragedy still fresh in all our minds - continued failed promises to Labradorians - and now the attempt to force play a vote - I think Peter MacKay has just guaranteed a loss.
Vote Labrador Vote - for whoever in your minds deserves it.
Thursday, May 17, 2012
Premier Frustrated Penashue 1 Objective PM On Course
Please Mr. Harper - BREAK JUST ONE MORE PROMISE!
You see Stephen Harper is on course to severely punish this province - and not because of anything we did or did not do - but because we are the "welfare bums down east".
Mark my words - as my mother used to say - we are on our way for complete giveaway of our resources, complete gutting of our industries, decimation of the fishery, ruination of our rural communities, annihilation of federal services and jobs, and the next theft from Labrador.
The Premier has been duped - she has no clue what's going on around her. She is muttering something about Peter MacKay - when it is Harper that is pulling the strings. While there is no doubt Nova Scotia is set to be the beneficiary of our resources in the same way Quebec was with the Upper Churchill - the culprit is not Peter - it is Steve.
The absolute corporate salivation over the Lower Churchill must be accommodated by all leaders.
My Opinion is:
1. The Prime Minister will - at every opportunity - put the boots to Newfoundland and Labrador.
2. The reason the Prime Minister will provide a loan guarantee for the proposed Emera deal is that Newfoundlanders and Labradorians will suffer if the deal goes through.
3. The Premier has not yet figured out the Danny/Dean game.
4. The Liberals have not yet figured out the Danny/Dean game.
5. We do not NEED Emera.
6. Peter Penashue's only goal - pushing this deal through.
So Mr. Harper you lie with great ease - so do it once more. Say NO to the loan guarantee.
This Emera deal must be stopped.
You see Stephen Harper is on course to severely punish this province - and not because of anything we did or did not do - but because we are the "welfare bums down east".
Mark my words - as my mother used to say - we are on our way for complete giveaway of our resources, complete gutting of our industries, decimation of the fishery, ruination of our rural communities, annihilation of federal services and jobs, and the next theft from Labrador.
The Premier has been duped - she has no clue what's going on around her. She is muttering something about Peter MacKay - when it is Harper that is pulling the strings. While there is no doubt Nova Scotia is set to be the beneficiary of our resources in the same way Quebec was with the Upper Churchill - the culprit is not Peter - it is Steve.
The absolute corporate salivation over the Lower Churchill must be accommodated by all leaders.
My Opinion is:
1. The Prime Minister will - at every opportunity - put the boots to Newfoundland and Labrador.
2. The reason the Prime Minister will provide a loan guarantee for the proposed Emera deal is that Newfoundlanders and Labradorians will suffer if the deal goes through.
3. The Premier has not yet figured out the Danny/Dean game.
4. The Liberals have not yet figured out the Danny/Dean game.
5. We do not NEED Emera.
6. Peter Penashue's only goal - pushing this deal through.
So Mr. Harper you lie with great ease - so do it once more. Say NO to the loan guarantee.
This Emera deal must be stopped.
Thursday, May 10, 2012
Damn Kirby's Tweet - The Premier should Resign!
MHA Dale Kirby said that somebody lied in the House of Assembly! Oh my Stop the Presses!
And imagine he did not even identify who he was talking about!! Stop the Presses!
Kathy Dunderdale said not to long ago: “The criticism can sometimes be relentless, and from a small handful of people, but they tend to be very loud and scathing, and personal, and mean”.
These comments were about who? She did not name the individuals and therefore she labelled all local bloggers and people who call open-line programs.
I want her to apologize in the House of Assembly to the people of this province. I want the Premier to acknowledge that her remarks were reckless, unfair, and unwarranted.
It is more important that she apologize as she was making the comments about the people she is employed by. Absolute insubordination by our Premier.
AND WHAT IS THE PURPOSE OF ALL OF THIS?
In my opinion the purpose is to deflect from her government's dismal performance on all levels. The purpose is to deflect away from the disaster on the Burin Peninsula and other rural areas of our province. It is to deflect away from the collapse of our fishing industry, and the fiasco which is the Emera deal. It is to deflect away from the loss of the Marine Rescue Sub-Centre, the loss of jobs in Federal parks and other federal offices. It is to deflect away from the Search and Rescue inadequacies and most importantly away from the loss of a young Labradorian's life.
AND NOW?
A Newfoundland fisherman gets ill at sea and the crew calls for a Doctor's assistance. The crew seeks to determine if they need a medevac. Their call goes to Italy! That's right people Italy! The crew is unable to get anywhere with the call and are left stranded with their medical emergency. Meanwhile...
From the Canadian Forces: 09/05/2012
HALIFAX – A CH-149 Cormorant helicopter from 103 (Search and Rescue) Squadron, Gander NF and a CC-130 Hercules aircraft from 413 (Transport and Rescue) Squadron from Greenwood NS are currently involved in a medical evacuation for a crewmember aboard Spanish fishing vessel, F/V Calvao, located approximately 445 kilometres southeast off St. John’s, Newfoundland.
Both aircraft were tasked early Wednesday afternoon, when Joint Rescue Coordination Centre (JRCC) in Halifax received a request from the United States Coast Guard ‘s (USCG) Rescue Coordination Centre in Boston to perform the medevac, as the vessel is in the Boston Search and Rescue region but Canadian assets were in closer proximity at the time of the incident.
This event is an excellent example of the close coordination that exists between US and Canadian Search & Rescue assets on a daily basis. To offer context, the distance from St John’s NF to the vessel is slightly further than the distance between Halifax and Sydney NS (434 km).
The Premier and her Cabinet should all be removed from office - the absolute dismantling of rural Newfoundland and Labrador and the treatment of our province in this nation is all a result of the Premier, her Cabinet, and Caucus. Anything for the loan guarantee right? Who and what is driving this? We demand to know!
Premier Dunderdale if you want to deal with the word LIAR - deal with Stephen Harper who is a LIAR. His lies to this province will cost us billions. Deal with that!
And imagine he did not even identify who he was talking about!! Stop the Presses!
Kathy Dunderdale said not to long ago: “The criticism can sometimes be relentless, and from a small handful of people, but they tend to be very loud and scathing, and personal, and mean”.
These comments were about who? She did not name the individuals and therefore she labelled all local bloggers and people who call open-line programs.
I want her to apologize in the House of Assembly to the people of this province. I want the Premier to acknowledge that her remarks were reckless, unfair, and unwarranted.
It is more important that she apologize as she was making the comments about the people she is employed by. Absolute insubordination by our Premier.
AND WHAT IS THE PURPOSE OF ALL OF THIS?
In my opinion the purpose is to deflect from her government's dismal performance on all levels. The purpose is to deflect away from the disaster on the Burin Peninsula and other rural areas of our province. It is to deflect away from the collapse of our fishing industry, and the fiasco which is the Emera deal. It is to deflect away from the loss of the Marine Rescue Sub-Centre, the loss of jobs in Federal parks and other federal offices. It is to deflect away from the Search and Rescue inadequacies and most importantly away from the loss of a young Labradorian's life.
AND NOW?
A Newfoundland fisherman gets ill at sea and the crew calls for a Doctor's assistance. The crew seeks to determine if they need a medevac. Their call goes to Italy! That's right people Italy! The crew is unable to get anywhere with the call and are left stranded with their medical emergency. Meanwhile...
From the Canadian Forces: 09/05/2012
HALIFAX – A CH-149 Cormorant helicopter from 103 (Search and Rescue) Squadron, Gander NF and a CC-130 Hercules aircraft from 413 (Transport and Rescue) Squadron from Greenwood NS are currently involved in a medical evacuation for a crewmember aboard Spanish fishing vessel, F/V Calvao, located approximately 445 kilometres southeast off St. John’s, Newfoundland.
Both aircraft were tasked early Wednesday afternoon, when Joint Rescue Coordination Centre (JRCC) in Halifax received a request from the United States Coast Guard ‘s (USCG) Rescue Coordination Centre in Boston to perform the medevac, as the vessel is in the Boston Search and Rescue region but Canadian assets were in closer proximity at the time of the incident.
This event is an excellent example of the close coordination that exists between US and Canadian Search & Rescue assets on a daily basis. To offer context, the distance from St John’s NF to the vessel is slightly further than the distance between Halifax and Sydney NS (434 km).
The Premier and her Cabinet should all be removed from office - the absolute dismantling of rural Newfoundland and Labrador and the treatment of our province in this nation is all a result of the Premier, her Cabinet, and Caucus. Anything for the loan guarantee right? Who and what is driving this? We demand to know!
Premier Dunderdale if you want to deal with the word LIAR - deal with Stephen Harper who is a LIAR. His lies to this province will cost us billions. Deal with that!
Monday, May 07, 2012
DND - con-(FES)-sion Demand an Inquiry
Do - Not - Disturb point - Finger - at Everybody but - Self
The audio tapes of telephone conversations between the JRCC, RCMP, and FES during the search for Burton Winters are very troubling.
These recordings have been made available to the public by CBC - obtained from the Department of National Defence.
One thing is for certain - the odds for Burton Winters survival were reduced - when people in authority made the decisions they made.
This is not meant to offend - but there appeared to be a more urgency in doing a survival probability model than was coordination for rescue.
Burton Winters was lost. A young Labradorian who deserved all the resources available to help him find his way home.
If his fight to walk 19 km's - in frigid northern weather and challenging ice conditions - was matched by sheer determination of people responsible for rescue - the outcome may have been different.
One particular recording stood out to me: PRESS HERE to Listen
If one does not know what resources are available - how does one coordinate or participate in a rescue effort?
The death of Burton Winters demands an enquiry and requires enhanced not reduced federal search and rescue assets in both Newfoundland and Labrador.
The provincial component of these services known as FES (Fire and Emergency Services) needs to be questioned thoroughly by an independent body. The objective should be to determine the qualifications and knowledge of decision makers and the training provided staff.
For people reading this story - please take the time to visit the Facebook site The Burton Winters' Rescue Centre in Labrador - and please participate.
Burton Winters deserved more and your children and families deserve more.
This is not a time for federal and provincial officials to play off each other - in order to lay ultimate blame. This is a time for action - to make sure this does not happen to any other child or youth of our province.
The audio tapes of telephone conversations between the JRCC, RCMP, and FES during the search for Burton Winters are very troubling.
These recordings have been made available to the public by CBC - obtained from the Department of National Defence.
One thing is for certain - the odds for Burton Winters survival were reduced - when people in authority made the decisions they made.
This is not meant to offend - but there appeared to be a more urgency in doing a survival probability model than was coordination for rescue.
Burton Winters was lost. A young Labradorian who deserved all the resources available to help him find his way home.
If his fight to walk 19 km's - in frigid northern weather and challenging ice conditions - was matched by sheer determination of people responsible for rescue - the outcome may have been different.
One particular recording stood out to me: PRESS HERE to Listen
If one does not know what resources are available - how does one coordinate or participate in a rescue effort?
The death of Burton Winters demands an enquiry and requires enhanced not reduced federal search and rescue assets in both Newfoundland and Labrador.
The provincial component of these services known as FES (Fire and Emergency Services) needs to be questioned thoroughly by an independent body. The objective should be to determine the qualifications and knowledge of decision makers and the training provided staff.
For people reading this story - please take the time to visit the Facebook site The Burton Winters' Rescue Centre in Labrador - and please participate.
Burton Winters deserved more and your children and families deserve more.
This is not a time for federal and provincial officials to play off each other - in order to lay ultimate blame. This is a time for action - to make sure this does not happen to any other child or youth of our province.
Wednesday, April 11, 2012
Peter on the River - Merv in the River
Merv Wiseman gets written reprimand - Peter MacKay gets a lift from Gander River.
Merv Wiseman trying to protect lives in NL - Peter MacKay throws a helicopter to Labrador in part because of Wiseman's dedication to fight for SAR in OUR province.
Merv Wiseman coast guard employee for 35 years - Peter MacKay ended the PC Party Canada through deception.
Are we going to let this go too? Are we going to speak up to protect somebody interested in protecting the lives of Newfoundland and Labrador children, fishers, oil workers, recreational boaters?
The Honourable Peter MacKay? The dishonourable Merv Wiseman?
If you want to know how apathetic we've become - watch the reaction to this disservice delivered to a man with 35 years of real public service.
Make no mistake - Merv Wiseman will walk the rest of the way for Burton Winters - Peter MacKay will cast his way into a healthy pension.
Merv Wiseman trying to protect lives in NL - Peter MacKay throws a helicopter to Labrador in part because of Wiseman's dedication to fight for SAR in OUR province.
Merv Wiseman coast guard employee for 35 years - Peter MacKay ended the PC Party Canada through deception.
Are we going to let this go too? Are we going to speak up to protect somebody interested in protecting the lives of Newfoundland and Labrador children, fishers, oil workers, recreational boaters?
The Honourable Peter MacKay? The dishonourable Merv Wiseman?
If you want to know how apathetic we've become - watch the reaction to this disservice delivered to a man with 35 years of real public service.
Make no mistake - Merv Wiseman will walk the rest of the way for Burton Winters - Peter MacKay will cast his way into a healthy pension.
Monday, April 09, 2012
For Burton Winters - It's Time to Raise YOUR Voice
Once again we are slipping back into apathy - turning our cheek - and saying we forgive you Ottawa.
A 14 year old young man from Makkovik died on the ice - trying to get home - while people who should have rescued him - did not.
Do we really care if this is a combination of federal and provincial entities? No! We care that this should not have happened and we should do what is necessary so it will not happen again.
Do not stop - carry the torch - and walk the rest of the way for this young brave Labradorian. Do not let this journey end without a permanent solution. Do not allow these bureaucrats, officials, and politicians to wait for the noise to let up.
The sound of our voices must grow stronger each and every day. Easter has come and gone and the only thing I see is that Gander should maintain its capabilities.
I see no commitment to keep the sub-centre in St. John's to remain open.
I see no commitment to a rescue centre in Labrador.
I see politicians - spinning and whining.
I see people like Merv Wiseman being punished.
This is not good enough - think about it. Put yourself in Burton's shoes - put yourself in his families shoes. Do not desensitize. Think about it. Get active and do not allow the people to be walked over - let the politicians know - they must deliver this time. This is not optional. Don't turn your head and walk away.
Together we can walk the rest of the way.
Press HERE to get involved.
A 14 year old young man from Makkovik died on the ice - trying to get home - while people who should have rescued him - did not.
Do we really care if this is a combination of federal and provincial entities? No! We care that this should not have happened and we should do what is necessary so it will not happen again.
Do not stop - carry the torch - and walk the rest of the way for this young brave Labradorian. Do not let this journey end without a permanent solution. Do not allow these bureaucrats, officials, and politicians to wait for the noise to let up.
The sound of our voices must grow stronger each and every day. Easter has come and gone and the only thing I see is that Gander should maintain its capabilities.
I see no commitment to keep the sub-centre in St. John's to remain open.
I see no commitment to a rescue centre in Labrador.
I see politicians - spinning and whining.
I see people like Merv Wiseman being punished.
This is not good enough - think about it. Put yourself in Burton's shoes - put yourself in his families shoes. Do not desensitize. Think about it. Get active and do not allow the people to be walked over - let the politicians know - they must deliver this time. This is not optional. Don't turn your head and walk away.
Together we can walk the rest of the way.
Press HERE to get involved.
Saturday, March 24, 2012
Burton Winters - Priority One - the Fifth Estate
The Fifth Estate became the voice of Burton Winters last night and walked another leg in his journey home.
The CBC program was respectful - revealing - and powerful.
There is no doubt that "assets" that are owned and paid for by Canadians were not used in the best interests of Canadians but rather were used in a manner prescribed by a Rear Admiral. That same Rear Admiral did not make himself available to Canadians who wanted to ask questions through their public broadcaster.
Both Peter McKay and the Rear Admiral David Gardam went missing when it came to answering questions that were not in a controlled environment. A Minister of the Crown who had no problem receiving the use of "assets" after a recreational fishing trip - did not respond when the question would be "why not use the 'assets' for a 14 year old young man from Labrador?"
Both men did not display one morsel of the courage displayed by 14 year old Burton as he valiantly tried to find his way home. A Minister and a Rear Admiral could not find their mouths or in the alternate were not allowed to use them.
One thing is for certain; the inconsistencies in the stories provided previously by both were revealed by the CBC investigative program and they do require answers.
Most people watching were moved emotionally as Burton's baby brother and parents were introduced to the program. As the program progressed that emotion would have turned to anger and then finally would have become resolve - to find real answers and to correct the problem.
It was a reminder to our provincial and federal government members that they must correct this. Peter Penashue and Kathy Dunderdale cannot hide or cower under the watchful eye of Prime Minister Stephen Harper.
I particularly liked the scripting which said the people of Labrador and Newfoundland have come together to fight for what's right and to fight for Burton and the loss of that precious young life.
We will walk the rest of the way together and we invite you - whoever you are and wherever you may live to join us.
To participate in the "Burton Winters' Rescue Center in Labrador" Facebook group - PRESS HERE.
To view the Fifth Estate Program - PRESS HERE.
The CBC program was respectful - revealing - and powerful.
There is no doubt that "assets" that are owned and paid for by Canadians were not used in the best interests of Canadians but rather were used in a manner prescribed by a Rear Admiral. That same Rear Admiral did not make himself available to Canadians who wanted to ask questions through their public broadcaster.
Both Peter McKay and the Rear Admiral David Gardam went missing when it came to answering questions that were not in a controlled environment. A Minister of the Crown who had no problem receiving the use of "assets" after a recreational fishing trip - did not respond when the question would be "why not use the 'assets' for a 14 year old young man from Labrador?"
Both men did not display one morsel of the courage displayed by 14 year old Burton as he valiantly tried to find his way home. A Minister and a Rear Admiral could not find their mouths or in the alternate were not allowed to use them.
One thing is for certain; the inconsistencies in the stories provided previously by both were revealed by the CBC investigative program and they do require answers.
Most people watching were moved emotionally as Burton's baby brother and parents were introduced to the program. As the program progressed that emotion would have turned to anger and then finally would have become resolve - to find real answers and to correct the problem.
It was a reminder to our provincial and federal government members that they must correct this. Peter Penashue and Kathy Dunderdale cannot hide or cower under the watchful eye of Prime Minister Stephen Harper.
I particularly liked the scripting which said the people of Labrador and Newfoundland have come together to fight for what's right and to fight for Burton and the loss of that precious young life.
We will walk the rest of the way together and we invite you - whoever you are and wherever you may live to join us.
To participate in the "Burton Winters' Rescue Center in Labrador" Facebook group - PRESS HERE.
To view the Fifth Estate Program - PRESS HERE.
Sunday, March 11, 2012
Harper - Capitalist Despot - Attacking Canada's Democracy
The question of robo-calls and other various oddities during our last federal election has left many Canadians feeling disenfranchised.
This followed the Conservative in-out scandal from the 2006 election campaign.
Obviously there is a real problem and efforts by the Prime Minister or his Caucus to downplay these events further emphasize the need for concern.
Stephen Harper and his ilk have been playing the Gods of Morality since they entered the federal political scene - they have pushed the value of "family" - as they see it - they have spoken about individual freedoms - as they see them and basically condemned all governments before them.
We were going to get an elected Senate - remember? Harper continues to stuff the Senate with under-qualified partisan buffoons and has removed the public funding of elections - in an effort to maintain power by any means.
Stephen Harper believes that you too will see the "right" way if he and his cronies, MacKay, Baird, and Toews keep spewing it. With that "right" way also comes the arrogance of a class system where they as leaders are above the people who elect them.
The Harper reformers are arrogant, cheating, and lying, despots who believe they owe nobody an explanation. They are opposed to transparency and accountability - all under the guise of knowing what is best for you and me.
These overstuffed suited Byzantinians are not into democracy and they do not believe in our electoral system. The question is - how much trouble are we in?
I contend that if these elections irregularities were noticed in countries where democracy is in its infancy - our independent observers would cry foul. If there are in fact over 30,000 incidents where voters felt their free vote was tampered with in any way - we have an election which should not be valid.
Determining how many "rogues" there were does not make me feel any less angry and I demand that Canada stop this major erosion of our democracy.
I have listened to various media outlets attempting to downplay these irregularities - in part - because they play partisan and in part because the reporters along with millions of Canadians do not want to accept that this erosion is actually real.
We - as Canadians - had better wake-up quickly or we may lose the real values we hold dear and find ourselves surrounded by right-wing economists who are treating our resources and people as part of a collective corporate pot - possessing absolutely zero ethics and social conscience. Canada is a country not a company and it does not belong to entities registered on the various stock exchanges.
That is the real message of young people who stand as anonymous and with the Occupy movement. The wearing of masks simply highlights that we no longer have a face - we are no longer human beings - we are just a cog in a resource extracting wheel that knows no borders and recognizes no human rights.
This Prime Minister was politically raised to do just what he is doing - and for Canadians that spells danger. We must all fight to have our democracy restored and to remove from office these robos that want to vote the people out.
Even posts like this one - coming from an identifiable IP address - are something the Conservatives want control of.
This followed the Conservative in-out scandal from the 2006 election campaign.
Obviously there is a real problem and efforts by the Prime Minister or his Caucus to downplay these events further emphasize the need for concern.
Stephen Harper and his ilk have been playing the Gods of Morality since they entered the federal political scene - they have pushed the value of "family" - as they see it - they have spoken about individual freedoms - as they see them and basically condemned all governments before them.
We were going to get an elected Senate - remember? Harper continues to stuff the Senate with under-qualified partisan buffoons and has removed the public funding of elections - in an effort to maintain power by any means.
Stephen Harper believes that you too will see the "right" way if he and his cronies, MacKay, Baird, and Toews keep spewing it. With that "right" way also comes the arrogance of a class system where they as leaders are above the people who elect them.
The Harper reformers are arrogant, cheating, and lying, despots who believe they owe nobody an explanation. They are opposed to transparency and accountability - all under the guise of knowing what is best for you and me.
These overstuffed suited Byzantinians are not into democracy and they do not believe in our electoral system. The question is - how much trouble are we in?
I contend that if these elections irregularities were noticed in countries where democracy is in its infancy - our independent observers would cry foul. If there are in fact over 30,000 incidents where voters felt their free vote was tampered with in any way - we have an election which should not be valid.
Determining how many "rogues" there were does not make me feel any less angry and I demand that Canada stop this major erosion of our democracy.
I have listened to various media outlets attempting to downplay these irregularities - in part - because they play partisan and in part because the reporters along with millions of Canadians do not want to accept that this erosion is actually real.
We - as Canadians - had better wake-up quickly or we may lose the real values we hold dear and find ourselves surrounded by right-wing economists who are treating our resources and people as part of a collective corporate pot - possessing absolutely zero ethics and social conscience. Canada is a country not a company and it does not belong to entities registered on the various stock exchanges.
That is the real message of young people who stand as anonymous and with the Occupy movement. The wearing of masks simply highlights that we no longer have a face - we are no longer human beings - we are just a cog in a resource extracting wheel that knows no borders and recognizes no human rights.
This Prime Minister was politically raised to do just what he is doing - and for Canadians that spells danger. We must all fight to have our democracy restored and to remove from office these robos that want to vote the people out.
Even posts like this one - coming from an identifiable IP address - are something the Conservatives want control of.
Friday, March 02, 2012
Bullying, Lying, Cheating, Abusing Power - Our Leaders
To lead people, walk beside them … As for the best
leaders, the people do not notice their existence. The next best, the people honor and praise. The
next, the people fear; and the next, the people hate … When the best
leader’s work is done the people say, ‘We did it ourselves!
Lao-Tzu
Lao-Tzu
Which category do you believe our Premier and our
Prime Minister would fall under?
Parents teach their children:
Not to lie - Do our leaders lie?
Don't Bully - Do our leaders bully?
Do not Break the Law - Do our leaders break the
law?
Do not Cheat - Do our leaders cheat?
Listen to Others - Do our leaders listen?
Do not Abuse Power - Do our leaders abuse power?
As we review the values we have taught or are
teaching our children - do we worry that we are setting them up for failure? It
is clear that our leaders do not practice these basic principles and yet they
have risen to the top of our society.
Thursday, March 01, 2012
Go American all the way Harper, Toews, and MacKay
Vic, Peter, and Stephen want to be treated like Canadians - while they treat Canadian citizens like Americans. Not On!
Tell Vic Toews Everything was a social media revolt opposed to the Minister's proposed bill to give a free reign of investigation to law enforcement on ordinary Canadian Citizens. The online surveillance bill contained things that even the Minister was not aware of.
Putting aside for a moment that Toews should have resigned his portfolio based on his ignorance - Toews should have been prepared to come under extreme scrutiny by ordinary Canadians not used to this type of police state power.
So Toews, Peter MacKay and Stephen Harper are pushing an American agenda down our throats - the only problem is they don't want American back at them.
Toews was offended at his opponents taking cracks at his personal life and making public information - so public.
MacKay was offended by Canadians who questioned his privileged vacation flight from the Gander river - courtesy of Search and Rescue.
Harper is never really offended by anything - his steely blue lyin eyes reveal that his is a purpose of delivering the goods.
MacKay is a traitor - straight up - lied and almost single-handedly delivered the Progressive Conservative Party of Canada to the Reformers. He either is a straight-up liar or he was purchased to pay off debts accumulated during his campaign to lead the federal PC`s.
Toews and his public temper tantrum over the public release of public information is laughable - and I will tell you why. Mr. Toews and his gun slinging government are looking to breach the privacy of law abiding Canadians without so much as a warrant. At the same time they have killed the gun registry and are seeking to put more people in jail (tough on crime). What follows from here is in Stephen Harper's private little world - where his buddies seek to establish private prisons to be filled with non-violent offenders. Yes you and I will pay for the maximum security detail and the "entrepreneurs" will take the rest. Problem is they don't know if they have enough to fill their proposed private jails.Easy fix - put everybody in jail for a joint of weed.
So Mr. Toews, Mr. MacKay, and Mr. Harper - you want us to treat you like Canadians. Stay out of your private lives - be polite and not talk about your little indiscretions - while you get to treat us like Americans. Sorry - that's not how it works.
From now on I want to see ten years of your tax returns, I want the full deal on Toews and any others the same way the American people got to do the job on John Edwards. Let me see now John had affair with a household staffer and broke elections rules - fair game from now on Mr. Toews - you got the Canadian beat right out of me.
Peter Mackay - I want to know all about you and all the other girls every detail and I'd like to see what would happen to you in the USA if you let's say betrayed the Republicans and merged with the Libertarians. As for Harper - he is much more American that Michael Ignatieff ever was or could be and he will pay the piper.
In the Prime Minister's case we get to know about his last colonoscopy and whether or not he has polyps. what type of treatment he received, how the operation went - and the prognosis.
You people are a joke - you want to shove the stars and stripes down our maple leaf throats then be prepared for absolute scrutiny of every aspect of your personal lives.
And while we are going American - please allow the American naval fleet to deal with foreign fishing trawlers. They'd be willing to call a war on that issue.
Tell Vic Toews Everything was a social media revolt opposed to the Minister's proposed bill to give a free reign of investigation to law enforcement on ordinary Canadian Citizens. The online surveillance bill contained things that even the Minister was not aware of.
Putting aside for a moment that Toews should have resigned his portfolio based on his ignorance - Toews should have been prepared to come under extreme scrutiny by ordinary Canadians not used to this type of police state power.
So Toews, Peter MacKay and Stephen Harper are pushing an American agenda down our throats - the only problem is they don't want American back at them.
Toews was offended at his opponents taking cracks at his personal life and making public information - so public.
MacKay was offended by Canadians who questioned his privileged vacation flight from the Gander river - courtesy of Search and Rescue.
Harper is never really offended by anything - his steely blue lyin eyes reveal that his is a purpose of delivering the goods.
MacKay is a traitor - straight up - lied and almost single-handedly delivered the Progressive Conservative Party of Canada to the Reformers. He either is a straight-up liar or he was purchased to pay off debts accumulated during his campaign to lead the federal PC`s.
Toews and his public temper tantrum over the public release of public information is laughable - and I will tell you why. Mr. Toews and his gun slinging government are looking to breach the privacy of law abiding Canadians without so much as a warrant. At the same time they have killed the gun registry and are seeking to put more people in jail (tough on crime). What follows from here is in Stephen Harper's private little world - where his buddies seek to establish private prisons to be filled with non-violent offenders. Yes you and I will pay for the maximum security detail and the "entrepreneurs" will take the rest. Problem is they don't know if they have enough to fill their proposed private jails.Easy fix - put everybody in jail for a joint of weed.
So Mr. Toews, Mr. MacKay, and Mr. Harper - you want us to treat you like Canadians. Stay out of your private lives - be polite and not talk about your little indiscretions - while you get to treat us like Americans. Sorry - that's not how it works.
From now on I want to see ten years of your tax returns, I want the full deal on Toews and any others the same way the American people got to do the job on John Edwards. Let me see now John had affair with a household staffer and broke elections rules - fair game from now on Mr. Toews - you got the Canadian beat right out of me.
Peter Mackay - I want to know all about you and all the other girls every detail and I'd like to see what would happen to you in the USA if you let's say betrayed the Republicans and merged with the Libertarians. As for Harper - he is much more American that Michael Ignatieff ever was or could be and he will pay the piper.
In the Prime Minister's case we get to know about his last colonoscopy and whether or not he has polyps. what type of treatment he received, how the operation went - and the prognosis.
You people are a joke - you want to shove the stars and stripes down our maple leaf throats then be prepared for absolute scrutiny of every aspect of your personal lives.
And while we are going American - please allow the American naval fleet to deal with foreign fishing trawlers. They'd be willing to call a war on that issue.
Monday, February 27, 2012
WANTED - a few Tories - to play Monopoly - Do Not Pass GO
As RoboMonopoly (Canadian Edition) reaches new heights of corruption - Canada is looking for a few token Tories to do what nobody else can - stand up for democracy.
Of the PC's that remain in Parliament - surely there must be a dozen or so willing to leave Park Place and walk to Marvin Gardens. If the dice keep rolling the way they have over the past week - I expect to see "go directly to jail" do not pass go. I expect the Chance Cards are causing significant sweaty stress to some CON-servatives right now and they might be better off if they missed a turn.
The Free Space may not be an option if evidence keeps coming in the way it is.
I don't recall an option of military intervention in the game - although Peter MacKay is not beyond making up his own rules. The sense of entitlement he feels is either a direct result of Elmer's arrogance or a new found relief of power to compensate for his traitorous acts to his former - now defunct - party.
You can't hide Peter and you are inextricably hitched to the Harper hat.
Win at all costs - win at all costs - and our lying Prime Minister for his part could convince himself that this is acceptable - as Canadians need him right now.
Once again I state that Stephen Harper is a liar and he also happens to be our Prime Minister. He displays no concern when he is caught lying, no concern when a member of his caucus lies, and absolutely shows no respect for the Elections Act.
If a few Tories felt really Canadian - at this moment - and took a stroll across the Board - our country could avoid the absolute dismantling of our values, our democratic system, and our economy.
If they do not Canadians will have to abandon online communications, cellular technology, and hide from our military. Make no mistake about it Harper is a right-wing extremist who will lie to get what he and his ilk require - in this case that means rendering Canada redundant.
So it's your turn now - before you roll the dice again - decide if you are up to a trade. Trade the blue properties for red, orange, or green and you could help save us from the most deceptive zealot ever to have graced the House of Commons.
Of the PC's that remain in Parliament - surely there must be a dozen or so willing to leave Park Place and walk to Marvin Gardens. If the dice keep rolling the way they have over the past week - I expect to see "go directly to jail" do not pass go. I expect the Chance Cards are causing significant sweaty stress to some CON-servatives right now and they might be better off if they missed a turn.
The Free Space may not be an option if evidence keeps coming in the way it is.
I don't recall an option of military intervention in the game - although Peter MacKay is not beyond making up his own rules. The sense of entitlement he feels is either a direct result of Elmer's arrogance or a new found relief of power to compensate for his traitorous acts to his former - now defunct - party.
You can't hide Peter and you are inextricably hitched to the Harper hat.
Win at all costs - win at all costs - and our lying Prime Minister for his part could convince himself that this is acceptable - as Canadians need him right now.
Once again I state that Stephen Harper is a liar and he also happens to be our Prime Minister. He displays no concern when he is caught lying, no concern when a member of his caucus lies, and absolutely shows no respect for the Elections Act.
If a few Tories felt really Canadian - at this moment - and took a stroll across the Board - our country could avoid the absolute dismantling of our values, our democratic system, and our economy.
If they do not Canadians will have to abandon online communications, cellular technology, and hide from our military. Make no mistake about it Harper is a right-wing extremist who will lie to get what he and his ilk require - in this case that means rendering Canada redundant.
So it's your turn now - before you roll the dice again - decide if you are up to a trade. Trade the blue properties for red, orange, or green and you could help save us from the most deceptive zealot ever to have graced the House of Commons.
Saturday, February 25, 2012
Harper's Police State - Your Canada
The warnings about this right wing zealot went unheeded by Canadians during the last election. The media did their part by allowing this deceptive operative (aka our Prime Minister) to only answer a limited number of questions per-day (prescribed by Harper).
Harper - flanked by weak Progressive Conservatives like Peter MacKay - is free to change the face of Canada. When Justin Trudeau actually showed some guts and took Harper on - the media or what they have become - focused on the dissimilarity of Justin to Pierre Elliott. How about what the young MP was talking about?
Trudeau knows that Canada is heading to a place the majority of us do not want to go. The small minority of right wing fundamentalists must not be allowed to destroy our country. Jim Flaherty our current Minister of Finance will continue with the Common Sense Revolution until he is permanently removed from any position of power. The comparison of Ontario to Greece - from an economic perspective - is not something that happened under the current Ontario administration. The mess in Ontario was started by Flaherty when a provincial Minister. Flaherty has a country under his feet because previous administrations regulated banking and our economic system in a manner that protected it. Flaherty will destroy it.
Let's fully understand the danger we are facing.
1. Spying on Canadians by a police force the PM seems to want to control.
2. In total contrast to number 1 where the PM says the government should have such controls - the same man eliminates the gun registry so as NOT to control law fearing Canadians.
3. Use the armed forces personnel to do searches on political opponents.
4. Control the media through a fundamental shift of access.
5. Election spending laws - who cares? PM does not!
6. Robotic calls forging the identity of the Elections Office
7. Eliminate public funding for elections to diminish opposition chances at election.
8. Lying to parliament.
9. Preparing to dismantle universal health care.
10. Taking money from Seniors.
This is a short list of the regime we have democratically elected.
Let me predict that if this PM feels there is any possibility that his chances of re-election are slim - he may very well proceed in making changes to the elections laws.
Young Justin Trudeau - sounded a real alarm and I expect the NDP, Liberal, and Green Parties to fight this government with everything they have. If they are not up to it - move over and let the young MP's do what is necessary to save this country.
It's no longer funny to be living in a Harper State.
Harper - flanked by weak Progressive Conservatives like Peter MacKay - is free to change the face of Canada. When Justin Trudeau actually showed some guts and took Harper on - the media or what they have become - focused on the dissimilarity of Justin to Pierre Elliott. How about what the young MP was talking about?
Trudeau knows that Canada is heading to a place the majority of us do not want to go. The small minority of right wing fundamentalists must not be allowed to destroy our country. Jim Flaherty our current Minister of Finance will continue with the Common Sense Revolution until he is permanently removed from any position of power. The comparison of Ontario to Greece - from an economic perspective - is not something that happened under the current Ontario administration. The mess in Ontario was started by Flaherty when a provincial Minister. Flaherty has a country under his feet because previous administrations regulated banking and our economic system in a manner that protected it. Flaherty will destroy it.
Let's fully understand the danger we are facing.
1. Spying on Canadians by a police force the PM seems to want to control.
2. In total contrast to number 1 where the PM says the government should have such controls - the same man eliminates the gun registry so as NOT to control law fearing Canadians.
3. Use the armed forces personnel to do searches on political opponents.
4. Control the media through a fundamental shift of access.
5. Election spending laws - who cares? PM does not!
6. Robotic calls forging the identity of the Elections Office
7. Eliminate public funding for elections to diminish opposition chances at election.
8. Lying to parliament.
9. Preparing to dismantle universal health care.
10. Taking money from Seniors.
This is a short list of the regime we have democratically elected.
Let me predict that if this PM feels there is any possibility that his chances of re-election are slim - he may very well proceed in making changes to the elections laws.
Young Justin Trudeau - sounded a real alarm and I expect the NDP, Liberal, and Green Parties to fight this government with everything they have. If they are not up to it - move over and let the young MP's do what is necessary to save this country.
It's no longer funny to be living in a Harper State.
Monday, February 13, 2012
Harper & MacKay need a Wake-up Call! Top Priority - Burton Winters
This is a post about priorities. Please take the time to read the Maclean's Story below. The compare it to the Search and Rescue situation in Newfoundland and Labrador.
Then think about Peter MacKay's statement today about doing a "review of protocols" after the loss of a wonderful young man from Labrador - named Burton Winters.
The facebook page for more information on Burton Winters story and what is being done by the people of Newfoundland and Labrador PRESS HERE.
These politicians are too arrogant and must be guided once again by people - not by a misguided ignorant position on something they clearly do not think is important. Is it the bureaucrats mentioned below responsible for "advising" Ministers such as MacKay or our Prime Minister?
We are here to tell them they are wrong.
Here's the Story
Newly-released figures show senior federal bureaucrats paid exorbitant rates to fly to Paris, London and other destinations. Airfares purchased by officials with the Privy Council, the Prime Minister’s own department, for the final quarter of 2011 have been posted online and include several expensive trips abroad, reports the Canadian Press. One assistant secretary flew round trip to London at a cost of $6,855; a clerk paid $6,625 for the same trip. What class they were flying is unknown, but an economy ticket for a return trip between Ottawa and London can be booked two weeks in advance for less than $1,000. Flights to Paris, another favourite destination among civil servants, Dublin and other European cities were also booked at prices ranging from $4,000 to $6,000.
Travel expenses have been a sore spot for the Harper government in the past year, ever since CTV reported a chief of defence staff who had spent $1.5 million flying a government-owned plane, once to a Caribbean holiday and to NHL and CFL games. Afterwards, the Privy Council wrote an internal memo to Harper describing the rules for travel spending and highlighting reductions in travel expenses. The memo was signed by Wayne Wouters, the clerk of the Privy Council. Wouters went to London in November for $6,625.
Then, in December, Defence Minister Peter Mackay acknowledged riding aboard a military helicopter in the summer as part of a search-and-rescue mission, only to have later surface that the Air Force’s CH-149 Cormorant chopper plucked Mackay from a fishing he’d been taking in Newfoundland.
Then think about Peter MacKay's statement today about doing a "review of protocols" after the loss of a wonderful young man from Labrador - named Burton Winters.
The facebook page for more information on Burton Winters story and what is being done by the people of Newfoundland and Labrador PRESS HERE.
These politicians are too arrogant and must be guided once again by people - not by a misguided ignorant position on something they clearly do not think is important. Is it the bureaucrats mentioned below responsible for "advising" Ministers such as MacKay or our Prime Minister?
We are here to tell them they are wrong.
Here's the Story
Ottawa’s high-flying bureacrats
Newly-released figures show senior federal bureaucrats paid exorbitant rates to fly to Paris, London and other destinations. Airfares purchased by officials with the Privy Council, the Prime Minister’s own department, for the final quarter of 2011 have been posted online and include several expensive trips abroad, reports the Canadian Press. One assistant secretary flew round trip to London at a cost of $6,855; a clerk paid $6,625 for the same trip. What class they were flying is unknown, but an economy ticket for a return trip between Ottawa and London can be booked two weeks in advance for less than $1,000. Flights to Paris, another favourite destination among civil servants, Dublin and other European cities were also booked at prices ranging from $4,000 to $6,000.
Travel expenses have been a sore spot for the Harper government in the past year, ever since CTV reported a chief of defence staff who had spent $1.5 million flying a government-owned plane, once to a Caribbean holiday and to NHL and CFL games. Afterwards, the Privy Council wrote an internal memo to Harper describing the rules for travel spending and highlighting reductions in travel expenses. The memo was signed by Wayne Wouters, the clerk of the Privy Council. Wouters went to London in November for $6,625.
Then, in December, Defence Minister Peter Mackay acknowledged riding aboard a military helicopter in the summer as part of a search-and-rescue mission, only to have later surface that the Air Force’s CH-149 Cormorant chopper plucked Mackay from a fishing he’d been taking in Newfoundland.
A Tribute to Burton Winters - by Dr. Phil Earle
I just received the following in the comments area of Sue's Blog.
This is a very touching tribute to Burton Winters and explains how this young man from Labrador has united our Newfoundland and Labrador soul.
After reading this tribute please visit the facebook group PRESS HERE
Phil Earle
Carbonear
This is a very touching tribute to Burton Winters and explains how this young man from Labrador has united our Newfoundland and Labrador soul.
After reading this tribute please visit the facebook group PRESS HERE
The Hero
Tribute to Burton Winters
After I hear your name all sound disappears, after I see your picture, your boyish grin and the exuberance of your eyes, my mind becomes blind to whatever my eyes are seeing. So deep have you touched me, moving the spirit of love, unfettered, within my soul, that my worldly senses are erased, wiping away the ignorant, temporal, conditioned knowledge of ‘myself’.
So great was your desire to be with those you loved, to succeed upon a journey that, unknown to you, was endless. Undaunted by the kilometers of the ice and snow, by the darkness and the cold, by the time in the loneliness of nowhere, you came face to face with the truth of your own soul. You became one with the birth place and source of your, and mans, greatest character. One with that bit of the energy of spirit that was your own, that energy of spirit who’s totality is universally pervasive and eternal.
Your struggle will never leave our hearts now, we are your people now, we are your family because you have made us so. The people of Newfoundland and Labrador, we love you in our souls. Your surrounding outward journey into trial and suffering lead you inwardly into yourself, where we know you found strength, self-reliance and courage, just as our forefathers did in making this wild, inebriate place our home.
It is sad that your life and the exuberance of your spirit has been taken. But we know that even though you did not make it back to tell us about what you learned through the pain and suffering you felt out there in that great loneliness .......it has been shown to us by your undaunted courage and determination. The purest qualities of any hero who has ever lived on this planet.
You, Burton, who you were and what you did will never grow old, just like our boys at Beaumont Hamel in the First World War, because the actions of heroes are always beyond
the element of time.
RIP ‘ole son’, RIP. Love ya.
After I hear your name all sound disappears, after I see your picture, your boyish grin and the exuberance of your eyes, my mind becomes blind to whatever my eyes are seeing. So deep have you touched me, moving the spirit of love, unfettered, within my soul, that my worldly senses are erased, wiping away the ignorant, temporal, conditioned knowledge of ‘myself’.
So great was your desire to be with those you loved, to succeed upon a journey that, unknown to you, was endless. Undaunted by the kilometers of the ice and snow, by the darkness and the cold, by the time in the loneliness of nowhere, you came face to face with the truth of your own soul. You became one with the birth place and source of your, and mans, greatest character. One with that bit of the energy of spirit that was your own, that energy of spirit who’s totality is universally pervasive and eternal.
Your struggle will never leave our hearts now, we are your people now, we are your family because you have made us so. The people of Newfoundland and Labrador, we love you in our souls. Your surrounding outward journey into trial and suffering lead you inwardly into yourself, where we know you found strength, self-reliance and courage, just as our forefathers did in making this wild, inebriate place our home.
It is sad that your life and the exuberance of your spirit has been taken. But we know that even though you did not make it back to tell us about what you learned through the pain and suffering you felt out there in that great loneliness .......it has been shown to us by your undaunted courage and determination. The purest qualities of any hero who has ever lived on this planet.
You, Burton, who you were and what you did will never grow old, just like our boys at Beaumont Hamel in the First World War, because the actions of heroes are always beyond
the element of time.
RIP ‘ole son’, RIP. Love ya.
Phil Earle
Carbonear
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