The economic mess of Newfoundland and Labrador should be compared to the Great Depression - and we should soon realize that a bailout will become necessary.
The bailout required will not be restricted to financial but administrative as well.
The causes of the Great Depression are well established but the Muskrat Depression is something else again. It is representative of governments bereft of ideas, talent, capabilities, sound judgement while possibly being full of malfeasance.
We have now successfully repeated monumental mistakes of the past. By majority we do not know our history - for reasons of disinterest, ignorance, the lack of educational direction, and ineffective journalism.
Can we ever return to the modern version of "responsible government"? What will our options be to come out of Commission of Government 2.0 - after it occurs?
In 2017 descriptive words such as "Commission of Government" will not be used. More diplomacy will be required as the Canadian Government steps in as the British did in 1934.
In the 1940's the choices were continued and reformed Commission, return to Responsible Government or to become a Canadian province.
In the Commission of Government 2.0 the choices to exit may be a provincially run system within Canada, join in an Atlantic Union, (the Island with Nova Scotia, Prince Edward Island and New Brunswick and Labrador with Quebec) or if we say so a choice to leave Canada.
This sounds harsh - and no doubt the words I use above will be avoided and top level spin will put the situation in a different light. Ball has already started with the word "mitigate" and we should expect the word cooperate with other provinces - particularly Quebec and Nova Scotia to soon follow.
As with the Great Depression - the Muskrat Depression will question our ability ro govern ourselves and also highlight the massive economic woes that will leave us no other choice but to cooperate. We will be made to feel less than capable, less than who we are, and unable to be left on our own to survive.
Our Terms of Union with Canada were and are weak - they are reflective of a population that was coerced into giving up our sovereignty for pennies on the dollar (for our resources) in return for things such as the baby bonus. We will be made to feel inept and question our own selves and our abilities.
There's no doubt the fish merchants of the 40's and the Muskrat merchants of 2017 are very much alike and for their own direct gain they will sell out their fellow citizens in a heartbeat.
By placing Tom Osborne in the finance portfolio - we have basically committed to a bureaucracy run government. Maintaining Siobhan Coady in the resources portfolio we have committed to the Muskrat elite continuing the unstoppable but yet destructive Muskrat fiasco. Aboriginal issues that Lisa Dempster looks forward to dealing with comes with the caveat that the Premier has always found her "whiny". Perhaps the Premier feels the actions of the Land Protectors are "whiny" and therefore whiners should stick together,
Perhaps Gerry Byrne has shown interest in the inevitable leadership race and therefore placed in the guaranteed to lose Fisheries portfolio.
Being a little more wily - Canada will not transparently step on our turf - it will do so in the nicest possible way - saving us from ourselves - while sticking it to our independence.
Wherever the 3 amigos exist (Williams, MacDonald, and Tobin) Williams overtly PC - Tobin overtly Liberal - MacDonald swinging as is necessary) we are getting the shaft.
As in the original Commission of Government there are untouchable issues. For the original it was denominational education - the Commission felt it should change - become efficient and economically sustainable - however the churches (the all powerful in NL at the time) would not have it. In the modern Commission of Government 2.0 - where it's obvious Muskrat should be halted - it will be the one thing that will keep going as the Muskrat elite hold a power similar to the churches in the 1940's.
When I tweeted the other day that the only potential NL had left was that the "undecided" voters hold a lead in the polls at 33% - I meant it. If it was sustained and a new party emerged supporting the fundamental belief in responsible government - we could remove ourselves from the clutches of the Canadian wolf. That does not mean separation necessarily but does mean we will right our track and allow NL to survive for generations to come.
The bouncing back and forth between PC and Liberal will destroy us and the NDP that is disinterested in truly expanding and having ideas outside the historical position of Tommy Douglas - has left us in a place where taking a completely different chance on a new entity is not only palpable but desirable.
We do have people among us who are capable and truly understand the meaning of public service. People who are intelligent, creative, caring and dependable.
I can see right now that we are for all intents and purposes in the Commission of Government 2.0 - and if you watch the Federal government and the local Liberals closely you can see that too.
The only question that remains is how will we come out of it and what choices will we have?
We must act quickly or the Muskrat elite will remove all but one choice from our future.
Ball is the perfect candidate to move us through to Commission of Government 2.0 as he is the text book case of a "leader" needing somebody - anybody - to tell him what to do. Right now he is vulnerable to the worst of political scoundrels unless he himself is one also.
There is NO doubt Muskrat should be stopped now and we should use our place in Canada to recoup monies wasted via the failure of successive Canadian governments to pay us for the loss of our fishery.
There is no doubt a forensic audit should be done immediately on Muskrat Falls - to determine if there are people to be fired, investigated, and possibly charged. This cannot wait until the "completion" that is lunacy.
There is no doubt that Muskrat must be stopped to allow further investigation into the engineering of the project and potentially life threatening circumstances at the spur.
Our government is weak, the Opposition parties are weak, the Cabinet is weak, and we now must be strong.
Showing posts with label confederation. Show all posts
Showing posts with label confederation. Show all posts
Tuesday, August 01, 2017
Saturday, March 30, 2013
Blue Glare and Cover-ups
The Confederation building is presenting itself these days as a reflection of the current government.
There's the blue glare from the new glass - precisely the look one gets when one criticizes the government. What's not a blue glare is shrouded, covered up, or tarped. Certainly a reflection of Bill 29 and the rest of the information you and I can't see as the taxpayers and citizens of the province.
First of all the building could have been reno'd keeping the same style and colours but - no - that sense of importance has been wiped clean.
This business of companies cutting deals with government and crown corps like Nalcor - in a shroud of secrecy is unacceptable.
We are the shareholders, taxpayers, citizens - if you want to use our money then all information is on the table. Open and transparent! Stop allowing this "commercial sensitivity" excuse for not telling us the things we are entitled to know. Nobody is asking for their financial statements online - however a publicly traded company info is available. Do not confuse "commercial sensitivity" with "political sensitivity".
The hiding of this $90 million will not cut it. By the way backbenchers - who do you think you are? You think it's okay to keep information from the people who employ you?
It's time for MHA's to do what they are paid to do - represent the people. Don't tell us what we need or want - listen to what we need and want. Do not delude yourselves - like an overbearing adult - into thinking you know what's best for us. If that's your thought process then we need to do a more thorough screening before we vote.
How about like other corporate executive jobs which entail handling billions of dollars - do a drug test, submit to a polygraph and demonstrate your IQ.
It's time we put an end to the blue glare and cover-ups.
There's the blue glare from the new glass - precisely the look one gets when one criticizes the government. What's not a blue glare is shrouded, covered up, or tarped. Certainly a reflection of Bill 29 and the rest of the information you and I can't see as the taxpayers and citizens of the province.
First of all the building could have been reno'd keeping the same style and colours but - no - that sense of importance has been wiped clean.
This business of companies cutting deals with government and crown corps like Nalcor - in a shroud of secrecy is unacceptable.
We are the shareholders, taxpayers, citizens - if you want to use our money then all information is on the table. Open and transparent! Stop allowing this "commercial sensitivity" excuse for not telling us the things we are entitled to know. Nobody is asking for their financial statements online - however a publicly traded company info is available. Do not confuse "commercial sensitivity" with "political sensitivity".
The hiding of this $90 million will not cut it. By the way backbenchers - who do you think you are? You think it's okay to keep information from the people who employ you?
It's time for MHA's to do what they are paid to do - represent the people. Don't tell us what we need or want - listen to what we need and want. Do not delude yourselves - like an overbearing adult - into thinking you know what's best for us. If that's your thought process then we need to do a more thorough screening before we vote.
How about like other corporate executive jobs which entail handling billions of dollars - do a drug test, submit to a polygraph and demonstrate your IQ.
It's time we put an end to the blue glare and cover-ups.
Friday, May 25, 2012
Confederation Taking Toll - MHA's are Observers
Is there anybody out there now that does not believe that Stephen Harper and the federal government of Canada is doing everything within its power to destabilize Newfoundland and Labrador?
We are being decimated on a daily basis. We are being ripped to shreds - one policy at a time.
We are irrelevant and are bring used to prop up failing provinces including Ontario, Quebec, and Nova Scotia.
The absolute only interests Harper and his colleagues have are to restructure our existence - move our people one by one, move the services one by one, move the resources one by one and by doing so destroy us.
One cannot sit in a chair - think reasonably about what is happening here - and not conclude that we are being eliminated.
MHA's of all stripes are sitting on their arses and moaning - pondering the last stand - lower the Canadian flag (joke) - and doing NOTHING concrete about our lot.
Men and women who apparently wanted very badly the job of representing the people and our province are watching our demise.
Kathy Dunderdale is incompetent and the fact that other Cabinet members and backbenchers are following behind her says something of either their abilities or guts.
Both Opposition parties have taken on the role of mourning each loss and adding "at least we tried" as are leaders of business and labour.
Our MP's have a groan fest going of their own. "See - I told you so" - what a pitiful lot - and the hypocrite Peter Penashue will no doubt get his reward - and it will cost his people. Grab the cheque and run right Peter? Muskrat will have a whole new meaning in years to come.
Vote Liberal, Vote PC, Vote NDP - that's all any of you is concerned about. Partisan - Patronage - Politics - your country be damned.
You sorry group - ye of little faith in the strength of your people. Is it possible that you can tug yourself away from the public purse - quit - resign - let somebody get in there and stop the carnage.
Conspiracy theory? Is that what lets you sleep at night?
It no longer matters that thousands of people are being displaced?
It no longer matters that communities are failing?
It no longer matters that confederation delivers nothing?
It no longer matters that our resources are being stripped?
It no longer matters that a young man died?
Go ahead - have a nap - and when you wake up - move on. Disgrace! Your heart is not in it - for if it were - you could not sit and watch. It's ripping my soul out - you however do not appear bothered. Public service at the highest level - that of elected office - means you should have passion. It is non-existent!
We are being decimated on a daily basis. We are being ripped to shreds - one policy at a time.
We are irrelevant and are bring used to prop up failing provinces including Ontario, Quebec, and Nova Scotia.
The absolute only interests Harper and his colleagues have are to restructure our existence - move our people one by one, move the services one by one, move the resources one by one and by doing so destroy us.
One cannot sit in a chair - think reasonably about what is happening here - and not conclude that we are being eliminated.
MHA's of all stripes are sitting on their arses and moaning - pondering the last stand - lower the Canadian flag (joke) - and doing NOTHING concrete about our lot.
Men and women who apparently wanted very badly the job of representing the people and our province are watching our demise.
Kathy Dunderdale is incompetent and the fact that other Cabinet members and backbenchers are following behind her says something of either their abilities or guts.
Both Opposition parties have taken on the role of mourning each loss and adding "at least we tried" as are leaders of business and labour.
Our MP's have a groan fest going of their own. "See - I told you so" - what a pitiful lot - and the hypocrite Peter Penashue will no doubt get his reward - and it will cost his people. Grab the cheque and run right Peter? Muskrat will have a whole new meaning in years to come.
Vote Liberal, Vote PC, Vote NDP - that's all any of you is concerned about. Partisan - Patronage - Politics - your country be damned.
You sorry group - ye of little faith in the strength of your people. Is it possible that you can tug yourself away from the public purse - quit - resign - let somebody get in there and stop the carnage.
Conspiracy theory? Is that what lets you sleep at night?
It no longer matters that thousands of people are being displaced?
It no longer matters that communities are failing?
It no longer matters that confederation delivers nothing?
It no longer matters that our resources are being stripped?
It no longer matters that a young man died?
Go ahead - have a nap - and when you wake up - move on. Disgrace! Your heart is not in it - for if it were - you could not sit and watch. It's ripping my soul out - you however do not appear bothered. Public service at the highest level - that of elected office - means you should have passion. It is non-existent!
Monday, February 27, 2012
Our politicians are Lying - Lying - and Lying again!
Everybody loves to see ex-pats return home to Newfoundland and Labrador.
It's the one excitement we get - compared to the pain and anguish of outmigration and the family consequences it brings.
Follow this:
A 35 year old leaves home - the fishery is no longer viable in his/her community. The person moves to Ontario or Alberta for work. At first the family stays behind - they can't sell their home - it's not worth anything anymore. As the months drag on with no prospects of the fishery recovering -those months become years and the family is suffering from the continued absence of a parent or spouse.
That 35 year old is now 38 and is either going through a divorce or is in the process of moving the family to Alberta or Ontario in an effort to save the relationship.
If divorce happens - the family is split - one spouse is trying to keep the homestead going in Newfoundland and Labrador within a community that can not hang on without the fishery. The children will be shuffled across the country - while both spouses seek a new relationship and perhaps a new family.
If the family moves - other family members are left behind. Grandpa and Grandma who planned to live with their children in older years now move into a government subsidized home. Aunts, uncles, and cousins lose touch and lose the all important sense of family that's felt in a rural community.
So far we have the taxpayer and the future generation gone - left behind are retirees that will require more government assistance in order to replace what would have been provided by the family.
Worse the children who have moved away with the parents are no longer going to grow into Newfoundland and Labrador taxpayers and their grandparents needs; medical, transport, and care will be paid for by children of those who have stayed.
So the 35 year old who moved to Alberta and Ontario is lost to our tax base - as they spend productive tax years in another province. They pay for seniors care in Alberta or Ontario and nothing to the care of seniors in this province.
Eventually the 35 year old retires having spent 20 years of productivity somewhere else. Driving the economy of Alberta or Ontario. Driving the population and tax growth. Driving more seats in the House of Commons.
At 65 the person repatriates to Newfoundland and Labrador. They are on retirement income and in a very different tax bracket. As that person gains chronic and then debilitating illnesses - the taxpayer of Newfoundland and Labrador take on the health and drug costs. The taxpayer of Newfoundland and Labrador take on the cost of homecare or residency in a personal care home. The person who left at 35 did not contribute to the tax base for these essential services. That is left to the young Newfoundlanders and Labradorians who remain home to work.
As the oil goes and continued resource giveaways come home to roost - young Newfoundlanders and Labradorians cannot afford the tax necessary to maintain essential health, transport, and education services. Off they go - to upper or western Canada while Newfoundland and Labrador slips into economic distress - the Greece of 2041.
Upper Churchill will save us? No it won't and that's why politicians won't and can't deal with the truth.
Canada is like a starving vampire - and the only blood it thirsts is the life-blood of Newfoundland and Labrador - and so far we are keeping it satisfied.
“When truth is replaced by silence,the silence is a lie.”
Yevgeny Yevtushenko
It's the one excitement we get - compared to the pain and anguish of outmigration and the family consequences it brings.
Follow this:
A 35 year old leaves home - the fishery is no longer viable in his/her community. The person moves to Ontario or Alberta for work. At first the family stays behind - they can't sell their home - it's not worth anything anymore. As the months drag on with no prospects of the fishery recovering -those months become years and the family is suffering from the continued absence of a parent or spouse.
That 35 year old is now 38 and is either going through a divorce or is in the process of moving the family to Alberta or Ontario in an effort to save the relationship.
If divorce happens - the family is split - one spouse is trying to keep the homestead going in Newfoundland and Labrador within a community that can not hang on without the fishery. The children will be shuffled across the country - while both spouses seek a new relationship and perhaps a new family.
If the family moves - other family members are left behind. Grandpa and Grandma who planned to live with their children in older years now move into a government subsidized home. Aunts, uncles, and cousins lose touch and lose the all important sense of family that's felt in a rural community.
So far we have the taxpayer and the future generation gone - left behind are retirees that will require more government assistance in order to replace what would have been provided by the family.
Worse the children who have moved away with the parents are no longer going to grow into Newfoundland and Labrador taxpayers and their grandparents needs; medical, transport, and care will be paid for by children of those who have stayed.
So the 35 year old who moved to Alberta and Ontario is lost to our tax base - as they spend productive tax years in another province. They pay for seniors care in Alberta or Ontario and nothing to the care of seniors in this province.
Eventually the 35 year old retires having spent 20 years of productivity somewhere else. Driving the economy of Alberta or Ontario. Driving the population and tax growth. Driving more seats in the House of Commons.
At 65 the person repatriates to Newfoundland and Labrador. They are on retirement income and in a very different tax bracket. As that person gains chronic and then debilitating illnesses - the taxpayer of Newfoundland and Labrador take on the health and drug costs. The taxpayer of Newfoundland and Labrador take on the cost of homecare or residency in a personal care home. The person who left at 35 did not contribute to the tax base for these essential services. That is left to the young Newfoundlanders and Labradorians who remain home to work.
As the oil goes and continued resource giveaways come home to roost - young Newfoundlanders and Labradorians cannot afford the tax necessary to maintain essential health, transport, and education services. Off they go - to upper or western Canada while Newfoundland and Labrador slips into economic distress - the Greece of 2041.
Upper Churchill will save us? No it won't and that's why politicians won't and can't deal with the truth.
Canada is like a starving vampire - and the only blood it thirsts is the life-blood of Newfoundland and Labrador - and so far we are keeping it satisfied.
“When truth is replaced by silence,the silence is a lie.”
Yevgeny Yevtushenko
Wednesday, November 02, 2011
Choo Choo - Confederation a locomotive of Destruction
Where is the train?
Where are the fish?
Where is the forestry industry?
Where is our population?
Where is the ship building?
Where is the hydro-power?
Where are the minerals?
Where is the industry?
Just as soon as the last drop of oil is gone - a have not province will sound good.
Systematic destruction of our country, her people, and future.
At least the electronic time capsules might be available to generations after we are long gone - maybe.
Where are the fish?
Where is the forestry industry?
Where is our population?
Where is the ship building?
Where is the hydro-power?
Where are the minerals?
Where is the industry?
Just as soon as the last drop of oil is gone - a have not province will sound good.
Systematic destruction of our country, her people, and future.
At least the electronic time capsules might be available to generations after we are long gone - maybe.
Saturday, July 09, 2011
Remembering our History and Forgetting Confederation - A winning Combination
This result from a recent Telegram Poll - I find it interesting!
While most want equal consideration to both - which currently does not happen - 28% said Remembrance only while 20% said Canada Day only.
The feelings in this province regarding Confederation are changing every year. I wonder why?
Do you consider July 1 a day to celebrate Canada, or one of remembrance — in particular, for the Battle of Beaumont Hamel in the First World War?
While most want equal consideration to both - which currently does not happen - 28% said Remembrance only while 20% said Canada Day only.
The feelings in this province regarding Confederation are changing every year. I wonder why?
Do you consider July 1 a day to celebrate Canada, or one of remembrance — in particular, for the Battle of Beaumont Hamel in the First World War?
- Celebrate Canada Day 20%
- Remembrance 28%
- Equal consideration to both 45%
- Neither. It's just another holiday. 7%
Monday, June 27, 2011
The Lower Churchill Project could lead to loss of Sovereignty
Sovereignty you question? Yes Sovereignty!
Unfortunately we voted ourselves out of complete independence when we "joined" Canada. However there is still this little small item remaining that of a province.
You and I have listened to musings of creating one Atlantic Province called Atlantica. Many business people and some politicians have really entertained this.
From a business perspective - many elite billionaires dream about the super province wherein the resources of Newfoundland and particularly Labrador can be stripped from this geography and delivered to Nova Scotia and New Brunswick for processing and wealth. A corporate dream that would see Newfoundlanders and Labradorians flock to work in the Maritime region - leaving the province with no specific purpose other than camps of workers to extract resource after resource and the power to fuel industry will come from Labrador and delivered to the new Maritime business mecca. Almost like Great Britain when it sent fishermen for a season but would not allow settlement.
If you cannot imagine this - then you could not have imagined we would give up our Dominion status and sell-out to the mighty Canada. But - it did happen.
Since that time we have not enjoyed steady population and industrial growth - rather we have had decimation of resource after resource - and the decimation of our rural communities and population of youth.
We have seen naive politicians make deal after deal with global corporations - that always placed the needs of our people last. We have never enjoyed full benefit from any resource we have exploited.
Our history is in the fishery - but the fishery is almost dead - this after turning management over to Ottawa. This was a renewable resource - a food basket of the world - now it is a just a fraction of what it once was. Remember in 1992 it was only to take 10 years to recover - where is that recovery? Where are the 40,000 people it took with it? Where are the communities? Where are the fishplants? Disgrace!
Then there was the mines - the great wealth of minerals - hauled out truck by truck ship by ship train by train to be processed elsewhere - taking the high paying jobs and skilled workers with it. Communities stripped of their wealth without an heritage fund - left with nothing but a polluted place. Disgrace!
Our forestry - almost stripped bare - and then as we finally forced reforestation and sustainable harvesting - we lost the industry it fuelled. Two paper mills gone. Discrace!
Lastly our power - the tremendous Upper Churchill potential lost to generations of our people - nothing to show for it - not industry - not jobs. Where parts of Labrador continue to rely on thermal generation and not an aluminum smelter in sight. 5000 mw's fuelling the Quebec economy and fuelling Hydro-Quebec the most powerful of power companies. For years losing equalization based on revenues we could not even collect.
Now Dunderdale and the Tories feel compelled to export another block of power - this time subsidizing it for Nova Scotia and others - while not delivering this power to all of Labrador - and not one MW for industry in the Big Land. Dunderdale claiming she is willing to listen to real arguments opposed to the Emera giveaway - but as Danny would say "nothing could be further from the truth". Dunderdale drilling down with due diligence so she may be all over a file - she does not have a real clue about.
Tell me something Ms. Dunderdale - who or what is the Atlantica Centre for Energy ?
What of the description:
The Atlantica Centre for Energy is an industry association dedicated to the sustainable growth and economic development of the regional energy sector. Originally centered in southwestern New Brunswick, the Centre's board has expanded to include leading energy professionals and national professional services companies in Maine, Nova Scotia, Newfoundland & Labrador and Ontario.
The Centre serves as a bridge between corporations and the community to help realize the opportunities associated with the energy sector in Atlantic Canada and the American Northeast. It provides a meeting ground for government, the education and research sectors, and the community at large to foster partnerships and engagement in energy-related issues and policy development.
Who is benefiting from power found in Labrador? Why would that be fuelling an Atlantica vision? How is it we benefit by creating wealth outside our province?
How about their vision for the Lower Churchill found HERE
I can tell you this Premier Dunderdale and Cabinet - what you are doing with the Lower Churchill will make the architects of the Upper Churchill look like patriots to this province and her people. Are you that naive - or are you that involved?
Again I remain amazed at the PC members so willing to become part of this - the worst giveaway in our history - the day we sold our province.
Unfortunately we voted ourselves out of complete independence when we "joined" Canada. However there is still this little small item remaining that of a province.
You and I have listened to musings of creating one Atlantic Province called Atlantica. Many business people and some politicians have really entertained this.
From a business perspective - many elite billionaires dream about the super province wherein the resources of Newfoundland and particularly Labrador can be stripped from this geography and delivered to Nova Scotia and New Brunswick for processing and wealth. A corporate dream that would see Newfoundlanders and Labradorians flock to work in the Maritime region - leaving the province with no specific purpose other than camps of workers to extract resource after resource and the power to fuel industry will come from Labrador and delivered to the new Maritime business mecca. Almost like Great Britain when it sent fishermen for a season but would not allow settlement.
If you cannot imagine this - then you could not have imagined we would give up our Dominion status and sell-out to the mighty Canada. But - it did happen.
Since that time we have not enjoyed steady population and industrial growth - rather we have had decimation of resource after resource - and the decimation of our rural communities and population of youth.
We have seen naive politicians make deal after deal with global corporations - that always placed the needs of our people last. We have never enjoyed full benefit from any resource we have exploited.
Our history is in the fishery - but the fishery is almost dead - this after turning management over to Ottawa. This was a renewable resource - a food basket of the world - now it is a just a fraction of what it once was. Remember in 1992 it was only to take 10 years to recover - where is that recovery? Where are the 40,000 people it took with it? Where are the communities? Where are the fishplants? Disgrace!
Then there was the mines - the great wealth of minerals - hauled out truck by truck ship by ship train by train to be processed elsewhere - taking the high paying jobs and skilled workers with it. Communities stripped of their wealth without an heritage fund - left with nothing but a polluted place. Disgrace!
Our forestry - almost stripped bare - and then as we finally forced reforestation and sustainable harvesting - we lost the industry it fuelled. Two paper mills gone. Discrace!
Lastly our power - the tremendous Upper Churchill potential lost to generations of our people - nothing to show for it - not industry - not jobs. Where parts of Labrador continue to rely on thermal generation and not an aluminum smelter in sight. 5000 mw's fuelling the Quebec economy and fuelling Hydro-Quebec the most powerful of power companies. For years losing equalization based on revenues we could not even collect.
Now Dunderdale and the Tories feel compelled to export another block of power - this time subsidizing it for Nova Scotia and others - while not delivering this power to all of Labrador - and not one MW for industry in the Big Land. Dunderdale claiming she is willing to listen to real arguments opposed to the Emera giveaway - but as Danny would say "nothing could be further from the truth". Dunderdale drilling down with due diligence so she may be all over a file - she does not have a real clue about.
Tell me something Ms. Dunderdale - who or what is the Atlantica Centre for Energy ?
What of the description:
The Atlantica Centre for Energy is an industry association dedicated to the sustainable growth and economic development of the regional energy sector. Originally centered in southwestern New Brunswick, the Centre's board has expanded to include leading energy professionals and national professional services companies in Maine, Nova Scotia, Newfoundland & Labrador and Ontario.
The Centre serves as a bridge between corporations and the community to help realize the opportunities associated with the energy sector in Atlantic Canada and the American Northeast. It provides a meeting ground for government, the education and research sectors, and the community at large to foster partnerships and engagement in energy-related issues and policy development.
Who is benefiting from power found in Labrador? Why would that be fuelling an Atlantica vision? How is it we benefit by creating wealth outside our province?
How about their vision for the Lower Churchill found HERE
I can tell you this Premier Dunderdale and Cabinet - what you are doing with the Lower Churchill will make the architects of the Upper Churchill look like patriots to this province and her people. Are you that naive - or are you that involved?
Again I remain amazed at the PC members so willing to become part of this - the worst giveaway in our history - the day we sold our province.
Thursday, June 23, 2011
Dunderdale's ready to Separate from the Canada?
The Telegram has a very revealing story today about Dunderdale's position on the Marine Rescue Sub-Centre.
Below is a couple of paragraphs from the Telegram article.
Dunderdale mused about the possibility of assuming responsibility for the service, even though she lamented "downloading" it onto the province.
She noted that on fishery enforcement, research and other issues the province has already assumed duties that were traditionally federal responsibilities.
"We have to take on more and more of what are really federal responsibilities, you're right it's downloading and it puts more pressure on our system," she said. "I wish that we didn't have to do it, but you've got to weigh it off, in how important is it to the people of the province?
Now let's examine what the Premier is saying. Her point is the Federal Government is not going to live up to jurisdictional responsibilities so the people of Newfoundland and Labrador will have to pay for it.
The Premier points out that fisheries enforcement and science have now been taken on by the province and if we are to have marine rescue services we will have to pay for that. I hope she is not forgetting the Rails to Roads fiasco where we gave up the train - everybody else continues to enjoy - and we did so without any money for maintaining a new roads system which - because of a massive increase in truck traffic - costs us astronomically more. (ruts) (ruts)
As for the management and ownership of our fishery - which constitutionally we gave up under Confederation - we are now going to pay for the mismanagement, lack of science, lack of enforcement, that has killed entire communities and cost us 40,000 people.
Now we are left with a failed fishery and failing plants - which we will fund or compensate for because the feds won't deal with the fact that their mistakes are now costing us over a billion a year!
What's next Kathy - if the feds downgrade Marine Atlantic again - are we going to take over that?
So our new Premier uses this negotiation tactic:
If you won't pay for it - we will - and we will shut up because we want a loan guarantee for a project that would put us in debt - without proper return potential? We won't get a loan guarantee unless we agree to export our valuable hydro to fuel industry everywhere but Labrador?
So Premier remind me; why are we in Canada?
No flies on her!
Below is a couple of paragraphs from the Telegram article.
Dunderdale mused about the possibility of assuming responsibility for the service, even though she lamented "downloading" it onto the province.
She noted that on fishery enforcement, research and other issues the province has already assumed duties that were traditionally federal responsibilities.
"We have to take on more and more of what are really federal responsibilities, you're right it's downloading and it puts more pressure on our system," she said. "I wish that we didn't have to do it, but you've got to weigh it off, in how important is it to the people of the province?
Now let's examine what the Premier is saying. Her point is the Federal Government is not going to live up to jurisdictional responsibilities so the people of Newfoundland and Labrador will have to pay for it.
The Premier points out that fisheries enforcement and science have now been taken on by the province and if we are to have marine rescue services we will have to pay for that. I hope she is not forgetting the Rails to Roads fiasco where we gave up the train - everybody else continues to enjoy - and we did so without any money for maintaining a new roads system which - because of a massive increase in truck traffic - costs us astronomically more. (ruts) (ruts)
As for the management and ownership of our fishery - which constitutionally we gave up under Confederation - we are now going to pay for the mismanagement, lack of science, lack of enforcement, that has killed entire communities and cost us 40,000 people.
Now we are left with a failed fishery and failing plants - which we will fund or compensate for because the feds won't deal with the fact that their mistakes are now costing us over a billion a year!
What's next Kathy - if the feds downgrade Marine Atlantic again - are we going to take over that?
So our new Premier uses this negotiation tactic:
If you won't pay for it - we will - and we will shut up because we want a loan guarantee for a project that would put us in debt - without proper return potential? We won't get a loan guarantee unless we agree to export our valuable hydro to fuel industry everywhere but Labrador?
So Premier remind me; why are we in Canada?
No flies on her!
Tuesday, May 03, 2011
Ontario Wins Big, Newfoundland shows Guts, the Big Land goes it Alone and Dunderdale may have Trouble!
Congratulations are in order for Ontario - for once again dictating the outcome of the federal election. Harper will be there for our biggest "greatest" province.
There may now be hope for the federal Liberals - if - they clean house at the executive and backroom level. Canada's "heartland" will set the agenda for the upcoming parliament and have rewarded Harper for the massive corporate bailouts in the auto and associate industries.
Irving and companies will also be a big winner in New Brunswick.
Now that the NDP is an essentially Quebec and Ontario based party 58 and 22 seats respectively close to 80% of their seat count with over 50% out of Quebec - what and who will they represent? Further the NDP had more of a say in the minority than they have in a Harper majority.
Now that Canada has sent a message to the Liberals to clean-up - they have done so by electing a fellow who has shown complete disregard for the truth, parliament, and our democracy. Harper has his majority and it is going to be real tough on the Progressive Conservatives in the party.
The Bloc is temporarily down - while Quebec takes a break from a nationalist party in Ottawa - but may very well elect a sovereignist party provincially. This is just another Quebec change-up.
The Conservatives are nasty and they will - without humility - rub this victory into the faces of Canadians who believe that moderate not extreme is Canada. This is a very clear example for Nova Scotia, New Brunswick, and Newfoundland and Labrador - that we really don't matter much in this system.
We witnessed a taste with Bev Oda - and her leaning respecting funding and pro-choice ideology. More interesting is her decisive win last night - rewarding her despicable behavior. Ontarians in her riding have redefined public service and the value of honesty. What did Oda have to say?
“Those who know me know I would never lie or mislead,” This is unbelievable!
In Newfoundland - we absolutely did the right thing and showed extreme courage by not electing one Conservative on the Island. Despite the on the ground boots of most all Dunderdale's Cabinet - they lost. We actually said to those who betrayed this province - we don't want you. Sullivan, Ottenheimer, Manning and fibre-optic Taylor were defeated - in most cases soundly.
In Labrador I can take some solace in knowing that the Big Land did what it wanted to do and not what our Island suggested they do. They have made a decision and it was their own. That is also the case with the Lower Churchill - this time it will not be shoved down their throats - rather they and they alone will determine what happens to this great resource. Further this time - they will sit in Cabinet at the federal level - not representatives from the Island. It is also clear that Labrador believes that Harper will live up to his promises for the base and the loan guarantee.
The deal on the Lower Churchill is up to them. If they wish to export - do so - and they can even make us pay for it. After all power leaves their place and heads to other jurisdictions - and they are left with royalties for the aboriginal peoples (or some of them) and a handful of jobs after construction - it will not be our fault as it was with the Upper Churchill.
Peter Penashue has a great deal of responsibility resting on his shoulders and good luck to him. I hope he brings to Labrador what Labradorians want. I hope he delivers in spades for his people and uses his voice to eliminate the long-standing social problems. For now they can choose their destiny - and the direction is all theirs. They can stand proud and make decisions that are good for them - eliminating the Island and most non-aboriginal influence. They can further build corporate partnerships between aboriginal companies and other Labrador based operators. They can take control of tenders and dictate how many jobs will be kept in Labrador and how many will leave. They can control the route of the hydro power resource and determine if they want industrial development at all - or prefer to go for royalties only. I have fought for the equal rights of Labradorians as an Islander for most of my adult life - and I have now experienced closure in that regard. Presumably Dunderdale will have to answer to Labrador and if the deals are not already done - will have to be done with the aboriginal peoples and corporate Labrador. Labrador now has control of its destiny and that is a good thing.
From a provincial Progressive Conservative point of view - there are many significant developments on the Island. The votes were mainly Liberal and NDP and both rural and urban voters have said no to Kathy Dunderdale and her team of Cabinet Ministers. We know what happened when Danny said ABC - the province listened. When Kathy Dunderdale said ABC is over and now we need to vote Conservative - the province did not listen. The PC urban vote did not recover and did not show well in other rural communities - with the exception of perhaps Felix Collins and Keith Hutchings. The federal election of 2006 saw almost 43% popular vote for the Conservatives. The ABC of 2008 demonstrated a complete collapse of that vote to 17% and now that ABC was called off by Premier Dunderdale the vote climbed to only 28%. The urban PC vote stronghold has not regained anywhere near the reliability needed to guarantee the almost always guaranteed vote for the PC's in St. John's and surrounding communities.
Let's look at the Avalon Peninsula - as it relates to influence by the current Premier Kathy Dunderdale versus the influence under Danny Williams. Same provincial layout - with only 2 opposition members in a bastion of Blue including a significant number of the Cabinet.
2006 When Danny got promises from Harper on equalization, Five Wing Goose, and custodial management.
Loyola Hearn enjoyed 44.6% of the popular vote.
Fabian Manning enjoyed 51.5% of the popular vote.
Norm Doyle enjoyed 46.5% of the popular vote.
2008 When Danny Williams declared ABC most all PC MHA's campaigned for Liberals or NDP.
St. John's South/Mount Pearl District (formerly Hearn, candidate Merv Wiseman) dropped to 12.6% of the popular vote.
St. John's East (formerly Doyle, candidate Craig Wescott) dropped to 9.3% of the popular vote.
Avalon District (Manning) dropped to 35.2% of the popular vote.
2011 When Kathy Dunderdale declared ABC over and has all but one PC MHA campaigning for Conservatives.
St. John's South/Mount Pearl District only recovers to 22.8% of the popular vote.
Avalon District only recovers to 40% of the popular vote.
St. John's East District only recovers to 20.9% of the popular vote.
Without a doubt the vast majority of the people continue to support Danny Willams position on Stephen Harper and the majority reject Kathy Dunderdale's new relationship with Stephen Harper. This despite - what can only be called strong provincial MHA's Caucus and Cabinet out in force as never before for federal Conservative candidates.
Further the Conservative candidates in St. John's East and St. John's South/Mount Pearl in the 2008 election, Craig Wescott and Merv Wiseman respectively were arguably much weaker candidates than the "star" candidates of 2011 in Loyola Sullivan and Jerry Byrne. One might speculate that the candidates themselves brought the difference to the table versus any recommendation by Dunderdale. In Manning's case where he was the constant he went down 16 points during ABC and only recovered 5 points last night. That we can write off to PC's feeling it was okay to vote at all.
This was not a good night for Kathy Dunderdale despite the tremendous victory for her friend - and colleague Stephen Harper.
The October election remains up for grabs and in many critical seats. The only thing holding back a resurgence for the provincial Liberals is the party itself. They should be able to make great gains in October as may well a few more NDP seats on the strength of Layton and Harris. (depends on how NDP policy impacts NL)
If the Liberals do some cleaning and add some star candidates of their own - they may very well cause Dunderdale and company real problems. After the turnaround of PC MHA's back to Harper which was seen by the majority of Newfoundlanders and Labradorians as disingenuous and opportunistic - seats won on Danny's coat-tails will be vulnerable.
My overall feelings are that Canada was crushed by the Ontario not Orange wave and that never bodes well for Atlantic Canada. Further Canadians have absolutely decided with the exception of Newfoundland, Nova Scotia, PEI, Quebec and parts of British Columbia that lying is okay, contempt of Parliament is dandy, and that the Elections Act is not anything relevant. Let's see if the right wing extremeists get the upper hand this time. Will Harper moderate? I don't believe a word he says - so my guess is he will not. You know when Preston Manning is delighted - we moderate people should be very concerned.
A great night for Newfoundland as we told Harper - you cannot lie to our people. Labrador - time will tell - if the Big Land gets what it wants I am happy for them. If it does not - the Island - for once will not be responsible.
There may now be hope for the federal Liberals - if - they clean house at the executive and backroom level. Canada's "heartland" will set the agenda for the upcoming parliament and have rewarded Harper for the massive corporate bailouts in the auto and associate industries.
Irving and companies will also be a big winner in New Brunswick.
Now that the NDP is an essentially Quebec and Ontario based party 58 and 22 seats respectively close to 80% of their seat count with over 50% out of Quebec - what and who will they represent? Further the NDP had more of a say in the minority than they have in a Harper majority.
Now that Canada has sent a message to the Liberals to clean-up - they have done so by electing a fellow who has shown complete disregard for the truth, parliament, and our democracy. Harper has his majority and it is going to be real tough on the Progressive Conservatives in the party.
The Bloc is temporarily down - while Quebec takes a break from a nationalist party in Ottawa - but may very well elect a sovereignist party provincially. This is just another Quebec change-up.
The Conservatives are nasty and they will - without humility - rub this victory into the faces of Canadians who believe that moderate not extreme is Canada. This is a very clear example for Nova Scotia, New Brunswick, and Newfoundland and Labrador - that we really don't matter much in this system.
We witnessed a taste with Bev Oda - and her leaning respecting funding and pro-choice ideology. More interesting is her decisive win last night - rewarding her despicable behavior. Ontarians in her riding have redefined public service and the value of honesty. What did Oda have to say?
“Those who know me know I would never lie or mislead,” This is unbelievable!
In Newfoundland - we absolutely did the right thing and showed extreme courage by not electing one Conservative on the Island. Despite the on the ground boots of most all Dunderdale's Cabinet - they lost. We actually said to those who betrayed this province - we don't want you. Sullivan, Ottenheimer, Manning and fibre-optic Taylor were defeated - in most cases soundly.
In Labrador I can take some solace in knowing that the Big Land did what it wanted to do and not what our Island suggested they do. They have made a decision and it was their own. That is also the case with the Lower Churchill - this time it will not be shoved down their throats - rather they and they alone will determine what happens to this great resource. Further this time - they will sit in Cabinet at the federal level - not representatives from the Island. It is also clear that Labrador believes that Harper will live up to his promises for the base and the loan guarantee.
The deal on the Lower Churchill is up to them. If they wish to export - do so - and they can even make us pay for it. After all power leaves their place and heads to other jurisdictions - and they are left with royalties for the aboriginal peoples (or some of them) and a handful of jobs after construction - it will not be our fault as it was with the Upper Churchill.
Peter Penashue has a great deal of responsibility resting on his shoulders and good luck to him. I hope he brings to Labrador what Labradorians want. I hope he delivers in spades for his people and uses his voice to eliminate the long-standing social problems. For now they can choose their destiny - and the direction is all theirs. They can stand proud and make decisions that are good for them - eliminating the Island and most non-aboriginal influence. They can further build corporate partnerships between aboriginal companies and other Labrador based operators. They can take control of tenders and dictate how many jobs will be kept in Labrador and how many will leave. They can control the route of the hydro power resource and determine if they want industrial development at all - or prefer to go for royalties only. I have fought for the equal rights of Labradorians as an Islander for most of my adult life - and I have now experienced closure in that regard. Presumably Dunderdale will have to answer to Labrador and if the deals are not already done - will have to be done with the aboriginal peoples and corporate Labrador. Labrador now has control of its destiny and that is a good thing.
From a provincial Progressive Conservative point of view - there are many significant developments on the Island. The votes were mainly Liberal and NDP and both rural and urban voters have said no to Kathy Dunderdale and her team of Cabinet Ministers. We know what happened when Danny said ABC - the province listened. When Kathy Dunderdale said ABC is over and now we need to vote Conservative - the province did not listen. The PC urban vote did not recover and did not show well in other rural communities - with the exception of perhaps Felix Collins and Keith Hutchings. The federal election of 2006 saw almost 43% popular vote for the Conservatives. The ABC of 2008 demonstrated a complete collapse of that vote to 17% and now that ABC was called off by Premier Dunderdale the vote climbed to only 28%. The urban PC vote stronghold has not regained anywhere near the reliability needed to guarantee the almost always guaranteed vote for the PC's in St. John's and surrounding communities.
Let's look at the Avalon Peninsula - as it relates to influence by the current Premier Kathy Dunderdale versus the influence under Danny Williams. Same provincial layout - with only 2 opposition members in a bastion of Blue including a significant number of the Cabinet.
2006 When Danny got promises from Harper on equalization, Five Wing Goose, and custodial management.
Loyola Hearn enjoyed 44.6% of the popular vote.
Fabian Manning enjoyed 51.5% of the popular vote.
Norm Doyle enjoyed 46.5% of the popular vote.
2008 When Danny Williams declared ABC most all PC MHA's campaigned for Liberals or NDP.
St. John's South/Mount Pearl District (formerly Hearn, candidate Merv Wiseman) dropped to 12.6% of the popular vote.
St. John's East (formerly Doyle, candidate Craig Wescott) dropped to 9.3% of the popular vote.
Avalon District (Manning) dropped to 35.2% of the popular vote.
2011 When Kathy Dunderdale declared ABC over and has all but one PC MHA campaigning for Conservatives.
St. John's South/Mount Pearl District only recovers to 22.8% of the popular vote.
Avalon District only recovers to 40% of the popular vote.
St. John's East District only recovers to 20.9% of the popular vote.
Without a doubt the vast majority of the people continue to support Danny Willams position on Stephen Harper and the majority reject Kathy Dunderdale's new relationship with Stephen Harper. This despite - what can only be called strong provincial MHA's Caucus and Cabinet out in force as never before for federal Conservative candidates.
Further the Conservative candidates in St. John's East and St. John's South/Mount Pearl in the 2008 election, Craig Wescott and Merv Wiseman respectively were arguably much weaker candidates than the "star" candidates of 2011 in Loyola Sullivan and Jerry Byrne. One might speculate that the candidates themselves brought the difference to the table versus any recommendation by Dunderdale. In Manning's case where he was the constant he went down 16 points during ABC and only recovered 5 points last night. That we can write off to PC's feeling it was okay to vote at all.
This was not a good night for Kathy Dunderdale despite the tremendous victory for her friend - and colleague Stephen Harper.
The October election remains up for grabs and in many critical seats. The only thing holding back a resurgence for the provincial Liberals is the party itself. They should be able to make great gains in October as may well a few more NDP seats on the strength of Layton and Harris. (depends on how NDP policy impacts NL)
If the Liberals do some cleaning and add some star candidates of their own - they may very well cause Dunderdale and company real problems. After the turnaround of PC MHA's back to Harper which was seen by the majority of Newfoundlanders and Labradorians as disingenuous and opportunistic - seats won on Danny's coat-tails will be vulnerable.
My overall feelings are that Canada was crushed by the Ontario not Orange wave and that never bodes well for Atlantic Canada. Further Canadians have absolutely decided with the exception of Newfoundland, Nova Scotia, PEI, Quebec and parts of British Columbia that lying is okay, contempt of Parliament is dandy, and that the Elections Act is not anything relevant. Let's see if the right wing extremeists get the upper hand this time. Will Harper moderate? I don't believe a word he says - so my guess is he will not. You know when Preston Manning is delighted - we moderate people should be very concerned.
A great night for Newfoundland as we told Harper - you cannot lie to our people. Labrador - time will tell - if the Big Land gets what it wants I am happy for them. If it does not - the Island - for once will not be responsible.
Saturday, April 02, 2011
50 reasons to Leave Canada Let's see if Harper can find More
It's been a real blast - let's remember next Memorial Day while they are blowing off the celebratory Fireworks in Upper Canada. Lest we Forget! Who will answer the roll call tomorrow? Not the spineless jellyfish standing next to Harper and Dunderdale.
1. Loss of Cod Stocks
2. Loss of Fishers
3. Loss of Fishers families
4. Loss of Hundreds of Communities
5. Loss of Hundreds of Thousands of people
6. Loss of ownership of offshore resources (both fishery and oil/gas)
7. Loss of Railway
8. Loss of dozens of fish plants
9. Loss of Upper Churchill water rights and power
10. Loss of Lighthouses
11. Loss of Airline
12. Loss of Airports
13. Loss of Bases
14. Loss of Paper mills
15. Loss of Culture
16. Loss of Flags
17. Loss of coastal Ferry Services
18. Loss of Food Fishery
19. Loss of Pork industry
20. Loss of Independence
21. Loss of Cobalt (exported)
22. Loss of Bakeries
23. Loss of many Independent Grocers
24. Loss of many Independent large Retailers
25. Loss of Bottling plant
26. Loss of Community hospitals and clinics
27. Loss of traditional seal fishery
28. Loss of Zinc (exported)
29. Loss of Copper (exported)
30. Loss of Iron Ore (exported)
31. Loss of Gold (exported)
32. Loss of Silver (exported)
33. Loss of Fluorspar (exported)
34. Loss of Sawmills
35. Loss of Helicopter Company
36. Loss of Capelin Stocks
37. Loss of Nickel (exported)
38. Loss of Currency
39. Loss of Banks
40. Loss of Military installations
41. Loss of Air Space
42. Loss of Manufacturing plants
43. Loss of Shipping Routes
44. Loss of Nose and Tail of the Grand Banks and Flemish Cap
45. Loss of fisheries supply companies
46. Loss of Wild Salmon industry
47. Loss of Schools
48. Loss of Inshore Fishery (traditional gear)
49. Loss of our Pride and Identity
50. Loss of our Youth - seeking jobs elsewhere.
Send me more of your memories - and the losses we have suffered since Confederation.
1. Loss of Cod Stocks
2. Loss of Fishers
3. Loss of Fishers families
4. Loss of Hundreds of Communities
5. Loss of Hundreds of Thousands of people
6. Loss of ownership of offshore resources (both fishery and oil/gas)
7. Loss of Railway
8. Loss of dozens of fish plants
9. Loss of Upper Churchill water rights and power
10. Loss of Lighthouses
11. Loss of Airline
12. Loss of Airports
13. Loss of Bases
14. Loss of Paper mills
15. Loss of Culture
16. Loss of Flags
17. Loss of coastal Ferry Services
18. Loss of Food Fishery
19. Loss of Pork industry
20. Loss of Independence
21. Loss of Cobalt (exported)
22. Loss of Bakeries
23. Loss of many Independent Grocers
24. Loss of many Independent large Retailers
25. Loss of Bottling plant
26. Loss of Community hospitals and clinics
27. Loss of traditional seal fishery
28. Loss of Zinc (exported)
29. Loss of Copper (exported)
30. Loss of Iron Ore (exported)
31. Loss of Gold (exported)
32. Loss of Silver (exported)
33. Loss of Fluorspar (exported)
34. Loss of Sawmills
35. Loss of Helicopter Company
36. Loss of Capelin Stocks
37. Loss of Nickel (exported)
38. Loss of Currency
39. Loss of Banks
40. Loss of Military installations
41. Loss of Air Space
42. Loss of Manufacturing plants
43. Loss of Shipping Routes
44. Loss of Nose and Tail of the Grand Banks and Flemish Cap
45. Loss of fisheries supply companies
46. Loss of Wild Salmon industry
47. Loss of Schools
48. Loss of Inshore Fishery (traditional gear)
49. Loss of our Pride and Identity
50. Loss of our Youth - seeking jobs elsewhere.
Send me more of your memories - and the losses we have suffered since Confederation.
Wednesday, March 23, 2011
Political Prostitution and the Escalator that won't Quit
 | ||||||||
| Political Prostitution | | | | | Millions for Transportation from the Telegram |
That escalator gets more photo time than the Premier. The last time was "we got it - we got it" only to be followed by Stephen Harper removing 5 times that we achieved from Paul Martin and the Liberals. So here is Susan "we got it - we got it" we have to wonder when the other shoe will drop.
Quite a deal the feds got - take away 10 billion give back 40 million.
Sunday, September 23, 2007
Can we learn in under a century what Iceland took...
...hundreds of years to understand?
Denmark was to Iceland - what Canada is to Newfoundland and Labrador.
The Iceland Review Online features young Icelanders speaking out about issues important to them. The latest one is probably a great lesson for us - and one that all Newfoundlanders and Labradorians should think about.
Here's a few paragraphs from the column titled "A Colony's Revenge":
Take the time and read the rest of this interesting story. Witness the passion young Icelanders feel about their history - culture - and nation. I'm just a little envious - are you?
Denmark was to Iceland - what Canada is to Newfoundland and Labrador.
The Iceland Review Online features young Icelanders speaking out about issues important to them. The latest one is probably a great lesson for us - and one that all Newfoundlanders and Labradorians should think about.
Here's a few paragraphs from the column titled "A Colony's Revenge":
You see, the Danes have at times in the past, done some pretty rude things to Iceland and generally behaved a bit like some kind of brute.
For example, there was the time back in 1380 when Denmark took over Norway (and subsequently Iceland as we were a bit of a package back then) and decided that unlike Norway, Denmark no longer needed any of the homespun wool or fish Iceland was used to selling and exporting, a decision that led to a dramatic financial and trading deficit on the little island of ice and fire.
By 1602, when Iceland had finally established a pretty good income through European trade, Denmark decided that they didn’t really want Iceland to trade with others either and enforced this with the looming threat of their massive naval army. Iceland embraced poverty yet again.
Then there was the time back in 1783 when Laki Volcano erupted and killed off 9,000 people (a hefty chunk considering our size) and about 80 percent of our livestock. The livestock deaths led to a starvation that killed off 25 percent of the nations populous. “Where” the people asked “is Denmark? They are meant to be helping us”. The answer? “Nowhere”.
Take the time and read the rest of this interesting story. Witness the passion young Icelanders feel about their history - culture - and nation. I'm just a little envious - are you?
Friday, February 16, 2007
Minister of National Defense Responds
The Minister Responds - and I suggest what Canada needs to do to compensate Newfoundland and Labrador for the collapse of the fishery.
In January I wrote the Minister of National Defence and MP's regarding my concern over the embarrassing event of the navy running out of cash to run ocean patrols off the east coast.
I am pleased to report that I have received a response from the Minister - despite the fact I have not heard from any MP from Newfoundland and Labrador.
Below is the response I received from Minister O'Connor - and below that - my response back to him and copied to all MP's.
Dear Ms. Kelland-Dyer:
Thank you for the copy of your e-mail of 22 January 2007 concerning the protection of Canadian sovereignty
Increasing Canada's presence and our sovereignty is a critical component of the Government's "Canada First" Defence Strategy. Our policy of Canada First will strengthen the Canadian Forces capacity to defend our country and its citizens, assert our sovereignty, and assume a leadership role in international operations.
As you may be aware, the Government provided an additional $5.3 billion to the Department of National Defence (DND) over the next five years in its 2006 budget. This increase will provide the Canadian Forces with the support and resources needed to carry out its important tasks. When added to previous funding commitments, this new money will bring our defence budget to approximately $15.4 billion for fiscal year 2006/2007.
As part of the Government's Canada First commitment to strengthen Canada's multi-role, combat-capable defence force, DND announced in June 2006 that it would be investing approximately:
- $5 billion for strategic and tactical aircraft, with an additional $3.3 billion to be spent over the next 20 years on in-service support, most of which will be done by Canadian industry;
- $2 billion for medium- to heavy-lift helicopters, with an additional $2.7 billion to be spent over the next 20 years on in-service support, which will largely be done by Canadian industry;
- $1.1 billion for medium-sized logistics trucks and associated components; and
- $2.1 billion for three replenishment ships-design, construction, and associated logistical and training support-in a competitive Canadian environment and in accordance with Canadian shipbuilding policy.
The Department is also developing a long-term plan for defence, including guidance on equipment priorities. I hope to have this plan finalized in the near future.
With the possible opening of the Northwest Passage to commercial shipping, and the increasing economic viability of northern natural resource extraction, this strategy will demonstrate to Canadians and the world that we are committed to enhancing Canadian northern sovereignty. As this region becomes more valuable to the national and international economic interests of Canada, we will make substantial investments in those military capabilities that enhance surveillance, reconnaissance and presence in Canada's Arctic Archipelago.
This defence vision consists of a well-equipped three-ocean navy, a robust army, and a revitalized air force. In my visits to the northern territories, I have seen first-hand the resources that are needed to keep watch in this immense part of the country. Now, more than ever, I remain convinced that our arctic sovereignty claims must be backed by, among other things, strong military capabilities. Accordingly, the Government intends to dedicate more people, equipment, and money to the defence of the north.
Of particular importance is establishing a three-ocean navy by increasing our naval presence in the straits leading to the Arctic Ocean. This is especially challenging because the demands of operating in ice and in open water require very different types of naval vessels. Before a decision is made on how to proceed, I have instructed the navy to analyse the various options and to develop an Arctic maritime plan that meets Canada's requirements. In addition, before any equipment is purchased, we will ensure that any future capital purchases for the northern navy are procured in a fair and competitive process benefiting the Canadian taxpayer.
As we move closer to implementing this Canada First vision for sovereignty, the Department of National Defence will continue, in concert with other local and federal departments and agencies, to assess the potential future threats to Canadian sovereignty.
I trust this information is of assistance and thank you again for writing.
Sincerely,
The Honourable Gordon J. O'Connor, PC, MP
Minister of National Defence
My Response
Minister of National Defence
The Honourable Gordon J. O'Connor
February 16-07
Dear Minister O'Connor,
Thank you for your response.
Newfoundland and Labrador exists in a geography which is critical to the protection of North America. Our province is located between many nations and Canada. Since we joined Confederation in 1949 - the strategic importance was evident to both Canada and the United States during periods of global conflict. More recently during the 911 event in New York - Newfoundland and Labrador was utilized as a safe place for landing many commercial aircraft.
There has also been a complete lack of importance placed on our jurisdiction in times of relative peace and various infrastructure utilized in the past by Canada - Great Britain - and USA during war time have been diminished if not eliminated over the past 30 years. This loss of presence and the failure to diversify these assets to Canada's benefit has harmed this province - and in my opinion our country.
Further there has been a catastrophe in our local fishery which is comparable to 100 times the current potential loss of 2000 auto jobs in Central Canada. It must also be said the fishery off the east coast was one of the most valuable renewable resources in the world. There are two definite contributors to this ecological and economic disasters:
The first is the failure of the federal government to manage the stocks and the second is the failure of the federal government to protect our waters from foreign plundering of the breeding stocks.
In your letter you make this statement:
"With the possible opening of the Northwest Passage to commercial shipping, and the increasing economic viability of northern natural resource extraction, this strategy will demonstrate to Canadians and the world that we are committed to enhancing Canadian northern sovereignty. As this region becomes more valuable to the national and international economic interests of Canada, we will make substantial investments in those military capabilities that enhance surveillance, reconnaissance and presence in Canada's Arctic Archipelago."
I would agree with your objectives for that region and can only ask why the same concern to protect the economic sovereignty off the coast of Newfoundland and Labrador is not as essential. It is an important part of global shipping lanes between the east and the west. I add that our ocean continues to be damaged by ships passing through bilging and just plain dumping oil and gas pollution.
It is necessary for the federal government to accomplish the following objectives.
A short-term - medium-term - and long-term plan to recover the fishery while compensating the rural communities for the decimation caused by mismanagement. That compensation must consist of income replacement - income stabilization - meaningful employment opportunity in the science and recovery efforts - early retirement funds - industry diversification - increased Coast Guard presence - increased military presence - new initiatives for environmental disaster response and accident prevention - and a significant increase in federal jobs and crown agency headquarters in all segments of federal government jurisdiction. This compensation must equal the ongoing damage to our province on an annual basis - until such a time as the fishery recovers to levels comparable to the the level at confederation. For our province of 500,000 people with alarming outmigration numbers and an aging population greater than the national average - living up to your constitutional responsibilities is not an option - it is the honourable thing to do. We cannot withstand a 200-500 million loss in our revenue on an annual basis. Increasing the harvest of our crab and shrimp in an attempt to mitigate the loss from groundfish collapse - is not only too little it is extremely irresponsible.
When I ask the MP's of our country to speak up - this is certainly what I mean. This is a disgrace to all Canadians - and causes extreme tension between the nation and our province. I would suggest it is difficult for you to progress on the Arctic front when the Government of Canada has left this atrocity to fester without proper response.
I further ask that MP's take a long look at the proposed new Fisheries Act and ask the important questions. This Act while needing amendments - is not ready for a Parliament that is too ignorant to debate it. Many thanks to MP Sackville--Eastern Shore, Nova Scotia, Peter Stoffer who is giving a valiant effort to protect this resource and through that the survival of rural Newfoundland and Labrador.
For any MP to ignore this situation places our federation in a precarious state and fails to demonstrate any real sovereignty on the East Coast of our country.
Best Regards,
Sue Kelland-Dyer
In January I wrote the Minister of National Defence and MP's regarding my concern over the embarrassing event of the navy running out of cash to run ocean patrols off the east coast.
I am pleased to report that I have received a response from the Minister - despite the fact I have not heard from any MP from Newfoundland and Labrador.
Below is the response I received from Minister O'Connor - and below that - my response back to him and copied to all MP's.
Dear Ms. Kelland-Dyer:
Thank you for the copy of your e-mail of 22 January 2007 concerning the protection of Canadian sovereignty
Increasing Canada's presence and our sovereignty is a critical component of the Government's "Canada First" Defence Strategy. Our policy of Canada First will strengthen the Canadian Forces capacity to defend our country and its citizens, assert our sovereignty, and assume a leadership role in international operations.
As you may be aware, the Government provided an additional $5.3 billion to the Department of National Defence (DND) over the next five years in its 2006 budget. This increase will provide the Canadian Forces with the support and resources needed to carry out its important tasks. When added to previous funding commitments, this new money will bring our defence budget to approximately $15.4 billion for fiscal year 2006/2007.
As part of the Government's Canada First commitment to strengthen Canada's multi-role, combat-capable defence force, DND announced in June 2006 that it would be investing approximately:
- $5 billion for strategic and tactical aircraft, with an additional $3.3 billion to be spent over the next 20 years on in-service support, most of which will be done by Canadian industry;
- $2 billion for medium- to heavy-lift helicopters, with an additional $2.7 billion to be spent over the next 20 years on in-service support, which will largely be done by Canadian industry;
- $1.1 billion for medium-sized logistics trucks and associated components; and
- $2.1 billion for three replenishment ships-design, construction, and associated logistical and training support-in a competitive Canadian environment and in accordance with Canadian shipbuilding policy.
The Department is also developing a long-term plan for defence, including guidance on equipment priorities. I hope to have this plan finalized in the near future.
With the possible opening of the Northwest Passage to commercial shipping, and the increasing economic viability of northern natural resource extraction, this strategy will demonstrate to Canadians and the world that we are committed to enhancing Canadian northern sovereignty. As this region becomes more valuable to the national and international economic interests of Canada, we will make substantial investments in those military capabilities that enhance surveillance, reconnaissance and presence in Canada's Arctic Archipelago.
This defence vision consists of a well-equipped three-ocean navy, a robust army, and a revitalized air force. In my visits to the northern territories, I have seen first-hand the resources that are needed to keep watch in this immense part of the country. Now, more than ever, I remain convinced that our arctic sovereignty claims must be backed by, among other things, strong military capabilities. Accordingly, the Government intends to dedicate more people, equipment, and money to the defence of the north.
Of particular importance is establishing a three-ocean navy by increasing our naval presence in the straits leading to the Arctic Ocean. This is especially challenging because the demands of operating in ice and in open water require very different types of naval vessels. Before a decision is made on how to proceed, I have instructed the navy to analyse the various options and to develop an Arctic maritime plan that meets Canada's requirements. In addition, before any equipment is purchased, we will ensure that any future capital purchases for the northern navy are procured in a fair and competitive process benefiting the Canadian taxpayer.
As we move closer to implementing this Canada First vision for sovereignty, the Department of National Defence will continue, in concert with other local and federal departments and agencies, to assess the potential future threats to Canadian sovereignty.
I trust this information is of assistance and thank you again for writing.
Sincerely,
The Honourable Gordon J. O'Connor, PC, MP
Minister of National Defence
My Response
Minister of National Defence
The Honourable Gordon J. O'Connor
February 16-07
Dear Minister O'Connor,
Thank you for your response.
Newfoundland and Labrador exists in a geography which is critical to the protection of North America. Our province is located between many nations and Canada. Since we joined Confederation in 1949 - the strategic importance was evident to both Canada and the United States during periods of global conflict. More recently during the 911 event in New York - Newfoundland and Labrador was utilized as a safe place for landing many commercial aircraft.
There has also been a complete lack of importance placed on our jurisdiction in times of relative peace and various infrastructure utilized in the past by Canada - Great Britain - and USA during war time have been diminished if not eliminated over the past 30 years. This loss of presence and the failure to diversify these assets to Canada's benefit has harmed this province - and in my opinion our country.
Further there has been a catastrophe in our local fishery which is comparable to 100 times the current potential loss of 2000 auto jobs in Central Canada. It must also be said the fishery off the east coast was one of the most valuable renewable resources in the world. There are two definite contributors to this ecological and economic disasters:
The first is the failure of the federal government to manage the stocks and the second is the failure of the federal government to protect our waters from foreign plundering of the breeding stocks.
In your letter you make this statement:
"With the possible opening of the Northwest Passage to commercial shipping, and the increasing economic viability of northern natural resource extraction, this strategy will demonstrate to Canadians and the world that we are committed to enhancing Canadian northern sovereignty. As this region becomes more valuable to the national and international economic interests of Canada, we will make substantial investments in those military capabilities that enhance surveillance, reconnaissance and presence in Canada's Arctic Archipelago."
I would agree with your objectives for that region and can only ask why the same concern to protect the economic sovereignty off the coast of Newfoundland and Labrador is not as essential. It is an important part of global shipping lanes between the east and the west. I add that our ocean continues to be damaged by ships passing through bilging and just plain dumping oil and gas pollution.
It is necessary for the federal government to accomplish the following objectives.
A short-term - medium-term - and long-term plan to recover the fishery while compensating the rural communities for the decimation caused by mismanagement. That compensation must consist of income replacement - income stabilization - meaningful employment opportunity in the science and recovery efforts - early retirement funds - industry diversification - increased Coast Guard presence - increased military presence - new initiatives for environmental disaster response and accident prevention - and a significant increase in federal jobs and crown agency headquarters in all segments of federal government jurisdiction. This compensation must equal the ongoing damage to our province on an annual basis - until such a time as the fishery recovers to levels comparable to the the level at confederation. For our province of 500,000 people with alarming outmigration numbers and an aging population greater than the national average - living up to your constitutional responsibilities is not an option - it is the honourable thing to do. We cannot withstand a 200-500 million loss in our revenue on an annual basis. Increasing the harvest of our crab and shrimp in an attempt to mitigate the loss from groundfish collapse - is not only too little it is extremely irresponsible.
When I ask the MP's of our country to speak up - this is certainly what I mean. This is a disgrace to all Canadians - and causes extreme tension between the nation and our province. I would suggest it is difficult for you to progress on the Arctic front when the Government of Canada has left this atrocity to fester without proper response.
I further ask that MP's take a long look at the proposed new Fisheries Act and ask the important questions. This Act while needing amendments - is not ready for a Parliament that is too ignorant to debate it. Many thanks to MP Sackville--Eastern Shore, Nova Scotia, Peter Stoffer who is giving a valiant effort to protect this resource and through that the survival of rural Newfoundland and Labrador.
For any MP to ignore this situation places our federation in a precarious state and fails to demonstrate any real sovereignty on the East Coast of our country.
Best Regards,
Sue Kelland-Dyer
Subscribe to:
Comments (Atom)