So much is known now about the Muskrat Falls fiasco - that even with the information we do not have - we know we've been had.
The perplexing question is how do we stop it?
Dwight Ball, Danny Williams, and those making fortunes on our bankrupt backs are counting on 2 things.
The first is apathy and the second is disorganization.
Let's talk about apathy. In the last CRA Poll of "decided" voters the Liberals held 40%, the PC's held 33%, the NDP held 24%, the Labrador Party 2% and the Greens (not a provincial party) held 1%.
Now the reality is that the undecided/refused was 43%, therefore the Liberals have support of 22.8% the PC's have support of 18.8%, the NDP have support of 13.6%, the Labrador Party have support of 1.1% and the Greens have support of .57%.
Part of this can be attributed to apathy and that suits the politicians just fine. Despite their protestations that voter participation should be higher - they are doing nothing really to entice those who either are sick of politicians or those who could care less.
Next we get to disorganization - a large chunk of that 43% undecided/refused are people who want to participate - but are so fed up with the big three choices that they can't commit to anything. They are also discouraged by the improbability that any new or marginal party would stand a chance.
There are twitter and blog trolls whose job it is to discourage active democratic movement - by simply saying things like "that won't work" "can't be done" "extremists and naysayers" etc.
Politicians are currently comfortable that this is all it will take to keep a real democratic movement from going forward. Why are they comfortable? Because the opposition to them is disorganized.
We have talented bloggers, intelligent tweeters, backroom experts, and call show gurus. They come from varied backgrounds and have personalities that are as diverse as you can get. They certainly have enough wherewithal to begin a new political movement. They could form a Cabinet that would make the current crew and the PC's before them look like rank amateurs.
For the most part - these people - many of whom have had political affiliations in the past - do not put Party in front of Province. They will take aim at the real issues and let rip.
The government (regardless of which one) will attempt to take some of them out with political appointments or engage them in another way to diminish the pool of articulate opposition.
In Quebec and other provinces - political movements are seen as advantageous and are encouraged. In Newfoundland and Labrador we have oodles of political minions who will take great pleasure in knocking them down. They don't have the capability to take them down on wits - so they get involved in name calling like "naysayer", "partisan", and/or "conspiracy theorists".
The other favourite pastime in Newfoundland and Labrador is to turn one of these people who oppose government against another who opposes government. This is done subtly - someone who knows someone says this about someone. You know - I'm sure you've all heard it. Then there is the politicians go-to, try and negatively impact the life of one of their antagonists. Yes - they do this - all the time.
The not-so-subtle approach is to just have a number of minions go beyond the normal types of insults and question a person's sanity - publicly. They also bring out "experts" to try and downplay the findings of a blogger - regardless of the validity. This public approach is also designed to deter others from becoming involved.
This is what we are dealing with. This is real.
Until the bloggers, the Tweeters, the backroom experts, and the call-show gurus (unofficial opposition) get together and plan some real action under real leadership - Muskrat and every other fiasco will continue.
We won't have a province left - but thanks to social media we'll have an historical account of the opposition.
Showing posts with label cra. Show all posts
Showing posts with label cra. Show all posts
Sunday, September 24, 2017
Thursday, May 21, 2015
Tories crushed in new polling numbers
It's polling time again - where CRA quarterly polling should be in the field.
I am satisfied however to reveal information from other scientific polling which has been taking place over the past couple of weeks.
I have seen the information myself and it's showing that the PC's are now in third place.
The information shows the Tories in the teens - chasing the NDP for second. The Liberals remain in the lead.
It also shows that support for Danny Williams as the best leader for the PC party sits at over 60% with female voters support for the former Premier at over 70%. Davis is comes in at 12% with Kent at 7%. The Tories have not taken to their new leader.
On the issue of when our next election should be - close to 50% wanted it before now or this summer while 40% are willing to wait until the fall. There is NO appetite to extend beyond September.
The polling also shows Earl McCurdy is quickly catching Paul Davis as second choice for Premier. Dwight Ball remains in the lead as choice for Premier.
If these numbers reflect reality - and I believe they do - this government does not have the moral authority to keep governing and a summer election should be held.
These polls have sampled over a thousand Newfoundlanders and Labradorians and the numbers do not look good for the PC's.
It certainly answers why MHA Sandy Collins has been trash talking on Twitter and why the NDP appears to be aiming at the Liberals.
The PC's are protesting too much about the Liberal platform - it is telling me that the numbers I have reviewed are accurate.
I am satisfied however to reveal information from other scientific polling which has been taking place over the past couple of weeks.
I have seen the information myself and it's showing that the PC's are now in third place.
The information shows the Tories in the teens - chasing the NDP for second. The Liberals remain in the lead.
It also shows that support for Danny Williams as the best leader for the PC party sits at over 60% with female voters support for the former Premier at over 70%. Davis is comes in at 12% with Kent at 7%. The Tories have not taken to their new leader.
On the issue of when our next election should be - close to 50% wanted it before now or this summer while 40% are willing to wait until the fall. There is NO appetite to extend beyond September.
The polling also shows Earl McCurdy is quickly catching Paul Davis as second choice for Premier. Dwight Ball remains in the lead as choice for Premier.
If these numbers reflect reality - and I believe they do - this government does not have the moral authority to keep governing and a summer election should be held.
These polls have sampled over a thousand Newfoundlanders and Labradorians and the numbers do not look good for the PC's.
It certainly answers why MHA Sandy Collins has been trash talking on Twitter and why the NDP appears to be aiming at the Liberals.
The PC's are protesting too much about the Liberal platform - it is telling me that the numbers I have reviewed are accurate.
Tuesday, May 19, 2015
Something's Up in #nlpoli
Hold on to your hats Newfoundlanders and Labradorians - political news will be rocking the boat soon.
Let's see how Paul Davis clinging to power is working out.
I wonder how the killing of Don Dunphy is affecting people?
How about the budget fiasco?
Is a Muskrat going to cause a real stink/sink for the Tories.
Has the Alberta trouncing of the Tories made its way to Newfoundland and Labrador.
Do the Tories miss Danny Williams and how do they like his replacement?
Keeping Steve Kent on the front line may be causing more erosion.
Newfoundland and Labrador Tory politics is going through tough change.
Tory times are hard times - is about to become - Tory times are past times.
Sue's Blog will be making some bold predictions before the next CRA poll.
Let's see how Paul Davis clinging to power is working out.
I wonder how the killing of Don Dunphy is affecting people?
How about the budget fiasco?
Is a Muskrat going to cause a real stink/sink for the Tories.
Has the Alberta trouncing of the Tories made its way to Newfoundland and Labrador.
Do the Tories miss Danny Williams and how do they like his replacement?
Keeping Steve Kent on the front line may be causing more erosion.
Newfoundland and Labrador Tory politics is going through tough change.
Tory times are hard times - is about to become - Tory times are past times.
Sue's Blog will be making some bold predictions before the next CRA poll.
Tuesday, May 06, 2014
Arms Length hmm
I was just reading part of a Canada Revenue Agency Document - that's interesting. Wonder what definition a court would use?
Example 1
A has two adult children, C and D. C has two children, X and Y, and D has one child, Z. A owns all of the issued and outstanding shares of Aco, consequently, A controls Aco. Each of Y and Z owns 50% of the common shares of Opco. Since Y and Z are cousins, they will, for purposes of the Act,
be an unrelated group that controls Opco. As A is related to each of Y and Z (i.e. A is their grandparent), Aco and Opco will be related pursuant to subparagraph 251(2)(c)(iv)
Corporations and Other Persons
11.Paragraphs 251(2)(b) and (c) set out the statutory rules for determining when a corporation and another person will be considered to be “related persons” (or persons related to each other) for purposes of the Act. Under paragraph 251(2)(b), a corporation will be related to another person
(including another corporation) where:
(a) that person controls the corporation;
(b) that person is a member of a related group that controls
the corporation; or
(c) that person is a person who is related to a person
described in (a) or (b) above.
In addition, paragraph 251(2)(c) provides that two
corporations will be related if:
(i) the two corporations are controlled by the same
person or group of persons;
(ii) each of the corporations is controlled by one
person and the person who controls one
corporation is related to the person who controls
the other corporation;
(iii) one of the corporations is controlled by one
person and that person is related to any member
of a related group that controls the other
corporation;
(iv) one of the corporations is controlled by one
person and that person is related to each member
Thursday, December 05, 2013
Cool Hand Luke meets Premier Dunderdale
Premier Dunderdale was faced with yet another bad polling result yesterday - in the latest quarterly CRA poll.
The polls are telling them that people do not support their government, it's direction, it's approach or her leadership.
The change in party support is virtually within the margin of error.
The Premier has decided that it has nothing to do with the policies or direction of government - rather it's how they brag about their achievements.
In this respect there are a few problems with the Dunderdale assessment.
1. Essentially it means the voting public must be stupid - we just don't get it. We are unable to see all the great things around us - unless of course the right marketing agency or personnel tell us in simpler - more understandable terms.
2. The Dunderdale government has spent untold fortunes advertising and a use of tremendous human resources to "message us".
3. The Dunderdale government has filled all social media and dominated talk shows to "message us".
4. The Premier feels that more fuzzy "home heating" like promotion may warm the cockles of our feeling cold Tory hearts.
5. Refusal to accept that certainly some - if not all - of the public dissatisfaction is because we do understand what they are doing.
We all should be very wary of what this government may do next. They may go on a spending spree filling our homes with flyers, surveys, and broadcast and print media advertising.
So - based on what the Premier said we should expect the following:
1. No change whatsoever in policy.
2. An elimination of participating in talk shows.
3. All members of the PC caucus will be off Twitter and Facebook.
4. Inundation of advertising and promotional material to brainwash us into seeing the light.
5. Re announcing funding initiatives 6 times over instead of 3.
The little (margin of error) bump in the polls is what she needed to satisfy her docile caucus and hang on to her job for another 3 months.
Her advisor (Ross Reid) must of helped to come up with an excuse for their continued failure in the polls. (communication)
The Premier's message to us is; what we've got here is a failure to communicate.
No - Warden Dunderdale - I will not get used to wearing the PC Chains of resource giveaways and failed policy - not to mention arrogance.
The polls are telling them that people do not support their government, it's direction, it's approach or her leadership.
The change in party support is virtually within the margin of error.
The Premier has decided that it has nothing to do with the policies or direction of government - rather it's how they brag about their achievements.
In this respect there are a few problems with the Dunderdale assessment.
1. Essentially it means the voting public must be stupid - we just don't get it. We are unable to see all the great things around us - unless of course the right marketing agency or personnel tell us in simpler - more understandable terms.
2. The Dunderdale government has spent untold fortunes advertising and a use of tremendous human resources to "message us".
3. The Dunderdale government has filled all social media and dominated talk shows to "message us".
4. The Premier feels that more fuzzy "home heating" like promotion may warm the cockles of our feeling cold Tory hearts.
5. Refusal to accept that certainly some - if not all - of the public dissatisfaction is because we do understand what they are doing.
We all should be very wary of what this government may do next. They may go on a spending spree filling our homes with flyers, surveys, and broadcast and print media advertising.
So - based on what the Premier said we should expect the following:
1. No change whatsoever in policy.
2. An elimination of participating in talk shows.
3. All members of the PC caucus will be off Twitter and Facebook.
4. Inundation of advertising and promotional material to brainwash us into seeing the light.
5. Re announcing funding initiatives 6 times over instead of 3.
The little (margin of error) bump in the polls is what she needed to satisfy her docile caucus and hang on to her job for another 3 months.
Her advisor (Ross Reid) must of helped to come up with an excuse for their continued failure in the polls. (communication)
The Premier's message to us is; what we've got here is a failure to communicate.
No - Warden Dunderdale - I will not get used to wearing the PC Chains of resource giveaways and failed policy - not to mention arrogance.
Wednesday, December 04, 2013
The CRA Poll will be 2015 Result
The latest CRA poll - I believe - will end up representing the election result in 2015.
The Tories have come in the same as last poll when you allow for percentage of error.
The NDP have collapsed and those left of centre swing Liberal/NDP have moved back to their Liberal base.
This is all of course premised on the Liberal Opposition not doing anything so outrageous (as happened with the NDP) as to eliminate themselves. As I have posted before - Dwight Ball's style of leadership is build not burn bridges and his thoughtful approach to policy is inclusive and open not exclusive and secret.
Back to the numbers:
1. The Liberals 52% is representative of the 30% or so solid Liberal support. 15% recaptured from the left leaning Liberals who had parked themselves tentatively with the NDP and 7% of centre Tories who swing based on the mood of the electorate and the current leadership of the Liberal Party.
2. The Tories are currently sitting with their solid PC base and not much else.
3. The NDP are likely to drop a couple of more points yet as they return to their solid base only - with that support going to the Liberals.
4. The Tories have shown they are unable to spend their way out this time and despite exorbitant amounts of warm and fuzzy Muskrat advertising - the population is not convinced that this project is good for Newfoundland and Labrador.
5. There will be a couple of more points coming to the Liberals as the sports fan like undecided - go out and vote for the winning team.
The Liberals chose the best leader at the best time. Dwight Ball will reinvigorate the party, rebuild party coffers, gain business support, promote district association development, unite right and left with solid economic planning, respect and include government employees, engage and involve the municipalities, be proactive on housing, health, education, and seniors issues, attract new industrial interests while maintaining and growing local small business. Ball will also be able to attract quality candidates including some of his leadership rivals. He is a quintessential Liberal.
This does not mean there will not be challenges over the coming 18 months. Ross Reid will try to direct a comeback for the Tories through outrageous spending, brainwashing levels of Tory self-promotion and advertising, and sometime in the New Year present a new potential leader. If the PC's cannot gain significantly by the next CRA poll result - the Tories will be in rebuild for 2019 mode.
Now let's talk about district predictions.
Here is my list of retirees (either before or at the dropping of the 2015 writ):
Felix Collins, Paul Davis, Kathy Dunderdale, Clayton Forsey, Tom Hedderson, Ray Hunter, Clyde Jackman, Charlene Johnson, Tom Marshall, Kevin O'Brien, Joan Shea, Susan Sullivan, Ross Wiseman.
Here is my list of potential floor crossers:
Dave Brazil, Sandy Collins, Tony Cornect, and Keith Russell
Those remaining may run again but only the following has a chance of retaining their seats:
Terry French, Keith Hutchings, Steve Kent, and John Dinn
This is what makes the next prediction very interesting.
I believe that Darin King thinks he is a leader in waiting and I believe that Hutchings and French will be his team of support. The problem is - I believe that - Darin King will lose his seat.
Dwight Ball has made it this far without the team of 10 establishment interests from both the Liberal and PC parties - if he keeps this approach - he will be a people's leader able to do the real job of a Premier.
As for the 2 independents - Mitchelmore and Kirby - I can see Kirby being comfortable under a Dwight Ball Liberal Opposition and Government - however Mitchelmore presents more as an opportunist who is a Tory one day and an NDPer the next. If he does not go Liberal he will - I predict - lose his seat.
The Tories have come in the same as last poll when you allow for percentage of error.
The NDP have collapsed and those left of centre swing Liberal/NDP have moved back to their Liberal base.
This is all of course premised on the Liberal Opposition not doing anything so outrageous (as happened with the NDP) as to eliminate themselves. As I have posted before - Dwight Ball's style of leadership is build not burn bridges and his thoughtful approach to policy is inclusive and open not exclusive and secret.
Back to the numbers:
1. The Liberals 52% is representative of the 30% or so solid Liberal support. 15% recaptured from the left leaning Liberals who had parked themselves tentatively with the NDP and 7% of centre Tories who swing based on the mood of the electorate and the current leadership of the Liberal Party.
2. The Tories are currently sitting with their solid PC base and not much else.
3. The NDP are likely to drop a couple of more points yet as they return to their solid base only - with that support going to the Liberals.
4. The Tories have shown they are unable to spend their way out this time and despite exorbitant amounts of warm and fuzzy Muskrat advertising - the population is not convinced that this project is good for Newfoundland and Labrador.
5. There will be a couple of more points coming to the Liberals as the sports fan like undecided - go out and vote for the winning team.
The Liberals chose the best leader at the best time. Dwight Ball will reinvigorate the party, rebuild party coffers, gain business support, promote district association development, unite right and left with solid economic planning, respect and include government employees, engage and involve the municipalities, be proactive on housing, health, education, and seniors issues, attract new industrial interests while maintaining and growing local small business. Ball will also be able to attract quality candidates including some of his leadership rivals. He is a quintessential Liberal.
This does not mean there will not be challenges over the coming 18 months. Ross Reid will try to direct a comeback for the Tories through outrageous spending, brainwashing levels of Tory self-promotion and advertising, and sometime in the New Year present a new potential leader. If the PC's cannot gain significantly by the next CRA poll result - the Tories will be in rebuild for 2019 mode.
Now let's talk about district predictions.
Here is my list of retirees (either before or at the dropping of the 2015 writ):
Felix Collins, Paul Davis, Kathy Dunderdale, Clayton Forsey, Tom Hedderson, Ray Hunter, Clyde Jackman, Charlene Johnson, Tom Marshall, Kevin O'Brien, Joan Shea, Susan Sullivan, Ross Wiseman.
Here is my list of potential floor crossers:
Dave Brazil, Sandy Collins, Tony Cornect, and Keith Russell
Those remaining may run again but only the following has a chance of retaining their seats:
Terry French, Keith Hutchings, Steve Kent, and John Dinn
This is what makes the next prediction very interesting.
I believe that Darin King thinks he is a leader in waiting and I believe that Hutchings and French will be his team of support. The problem is - I believe that - Darin King will lose his seat.
Dwight Ball has made it this far without the team of 10 establishment interests from both the Liberal and PC parties - if he keeps this approach - he will be a people's leader able to do the real job of a Premier.
As for the 2 independents - Mitchelmore and Kirby - I can see Kirby being comfortable under a Dwight Ball Liberal Opposition and Government - however Mitchelmore presents more as an opportunist who is a Tory one day and an NDPer the next. If he does not go Liberal he will - I predict - lose his seat.
Tuesday, June 11, 2013
Dunderdale Spin does not add up!
Nothing worse than waking up in the morning - and hearing Premier Dunderdale on the CBC Morning Show discussing how we - the people - will thank her in time.
The Premier and Co. really believe we are ignorant - almost beyond hope - and she like any concerned parent will guide us through the haze.
This patronizing drone is worse than annoying and condescending - it is dangerous.
If Dunderdale believes she must parent us versus serve us - then she is delusional.
The latest spin from DJ Reid is the low polling has nothing to do with Muskrat Falls. The Premier - as the "point" person of the party - claims the absolute collapse of the polls has to do with laying off 1000 people.
First - the destruction of faith in this government began long before this budget. Second - it absolutely has to do with Muskrat Falls as more and more information has been coming out by opponents to the deal. Finally the fact that Don Mills of CRA and the Premier are protesting too much - that it is absolutely NOT Muskrat Falls.
I say that it absolutely is Muskrat Falls and the damage to the party fortunes initiated shortly after the last election - when the deal was discussed in greater detail.
The Dunderdale government has spent a fortune getting study after study produced to verify that Nalcor and government are right on the development. Unfortunately it is becoming more and more obvious that the "independent" reports paid for by Nalcor and Government (us) were restricted and essentially mathematical recalculations of the sums already provided.
The government and/or PC Party did an untold number of polls (unreleased) on the subject and only released one when they eked over a majority of the population. The poll itself could be challenged - but that's a waste of time - as historical data on weak support exists - else the exercise of advertised brainwashing would have been a waste of money.
In my opinion - the greatest fear of Kathy and her handlers is that Muskrat dissent will become more vociferous in light of the disastrous poll results - and they might actually be politically forced to stop it.
The 5 or 6 people/corporations standing to actually make a tonne of money here will do anything to prevent that from happening.
There is no way a government polling this low can justify spending $24,000 for every child - woman - man in Newfoundland and Labrador - on one project - during one term in office. 240 - hundred dollar bills for us all - not a chance.
Spending at one time an equivalent of more than our debt - accumulated since 1949. Over 60 years - of spending and debt - Dunderdale wants to do for one project.
Considering the Premier and her government are clearly in third place of three - and considering that she and her Ministers and Backbenchers believe the poll has nothing to do with Muskrat - why not hold a referendum on Muskrat? What does the Premier and her government have to lose?
The people deserve a clear and specific say on the expenditure of this much money and particularly because it's a hydro resource.
The truth is plain to see - the people of this province are afraid of this deal - afraid of the impacts - afraid of the future ramifications.
Imagine the polling results if Dunderdale and Co. had done the honourable thing and funded opponents of the deal to present equally funded research and associated public relations and advertising for the findings.
The Muskrat Falls development must be stopped.
The Premier and Co. really believe we are ignorant - almost beyond hope - and she like any concerned parent will guide us through the haze.
This patronizing drone is worse than annoying and condescending - it is dangerous.
If Dunderdale believes she must parent us versus serve us - then she is delusional.
The latest spin from DJ Reid is the low polling has nothing to do with Muskrat Falls. The Premier - as the "point" person of the party - claims the absolute collapse of the polls has to do with laying off 1000 people.
First - the destruction of faith in this government began long before this budget. Second - it absolutely has to do with Muskrat Falls as more and more information has been coming out by opponents to the deal. Finally the fact that Don Mills of CRA and the Premier are protesting too much - that it is absolutely NOT Muskrat Falls.
I say that it absolutely is Muskrat Falls and the damage to the party fortunes initiated shortly after the last election - when the deal was discussed in greater detail.
The Dunderdale government has spent a fortune getting study after study produced to verify that Nalcor and government are right on the development. Unfortunately it is becoming more and more obvious that the "independent" reports paid for by Nalcor and Government (us) were restricted and essentially mathematical recalculations of the sums already provided.
The government and/or PC Party did an untold number of polls (unreleased) on the subject and only released one when they eked over a majority of the population. The poll itself could be challenged - but that's a waste of time - as historical data on weak support exists - else the exercise of advertised brainwashing would have been a waste of money.
In my opinion - the greatest fear of Kathy and her handlers is that Muskrat dissent will become more vociferous in light of the disastrous poll results - and they might actually be politically forced to stop it.
The 5 or 6 people/corporations standing to actually make a tonne of money here will do anything to prevent that from happening.
There is no way a government polling this low can justify spending $24,000 for every child - woman - man in Newfoundland and Labrador - on one project - during one term in office. 240 - hundred dollar bills for us all - not a chance.
Spending at one time an equivalent of more than our debt - accumulated since 1949. Over 60 years - of spending and debt - Dunderdale wants to do for one project.
Considering the Premier and her government are clearly in third place of three - and considering that she and her Ministers and Backbenchers believe the poll has nothing to do with Muskrat - why not hold a referendum on Muskrat? What does the Premier and her government have to lose?
The people deserve a clear and specific say on the expenditure of this much money and particularly because it's a hydro resource.
The truth is plain to see - the people of this province are afraid of this deal - afraid of the impacts - afraid of the future ramifications.
Imagine the polling results if Dunderdale and Co. had done the honourable thing and funded opponents of the deal to present equally funded research and associated public relations and advertising for the findings.
The Muskrat Falls development must be stopped.
Monday, June 10, 2013
Poll results demand a Referendum on Muskrat
So the polls are reflecting the REAL feelings on Muskrat Falls, deficits, cuts, social policy on health and education.
Jerome Kennedy is says "they are taking the poll seriously" - really?
Kennedy adds that they will stand by the decisions they have made on cuts and Muskrat Falls - really?
Kennedy, Dunderdale, and Co. reflected not long ago that the most recent election victory was a ringing endorsement of the Muskrat development deal. Despite the millions in brainwashing attempts and hiding results of earlier polls on the issue - they celebrated not long ago that a majority of Newfoundlanders and Labradorians finally agree with the deal. Really?
The poll results are low enough now that the Tories are not governing with any moral authority. The poll results are a reflection of people beginning to understand the Muskrat giveaway will cost their children, great grandchildren, and great-great grandchildren a fortune. The polls are a reflection of the peoples utter disgust with policy and laws of secrecy. The polls are a reflection that people despise the incompetence and false arrogance of this regime.
So Minister Kennedy is really saying to hell with the people - we will do as we want - when we want. The real strength of the backbench is now being displayed as they sit idly by - not really knowing what to do.
Minister Kennedy is acting as if - we - the people are opposing counsel and he will fight us with the best he's got. Unfortunately Minister - you don't have the right stuff - to win this battle. The Court of Public Opinion has spoken - you have lost the case. Appeal if you dare - my guess is - you will lose that also. When the Supreme Court of Public Opinion speaks - the precedent will be set. Dunderdale, Kennedy and Co. will probably achieve a feat of Mulroney proportions - they will have wiped out the PC Party in Newfoundland and Labrador. Perhaps Ross Wiseman can pull a Peter MacKay.
A conclusion should be made by the people that NOW is the time to stop this government from proceeding further with the Muskrat fiasco. Stop it now while only 10% has been spent. This project can be halted in its tracks and the only ones who''ll be crying are the 5 or 6 people/corporations that are actually going to make serious money on this sell-out.
We have not passed the point of no return on Muskrat - but the PC's have passed the point of no return with the people.
Try to be honourable ladies and gents and call a referendum on whether the project should proceed.
The stench which is SNC Lavalin is pleasantly perfumy when compared with the smell of sewer gas spewing from the decomposition from within.
There is no reason for any administration to continue a project like Muskrat when they have lost the confidence of the people. If the government continues with this now - it's not for the benefit of Newfoundlanders and Labradorians.
Jerome Kennedy is says "they are taking the poll seriously" - really?
Kennedy adds that they will stand by the decisions they have made on cuts and Muskrat Falls - really?
Kennedy, Dunderdale, and Co. reflected not long ago that the most recent election victory was a ringing endorsement of the Muskrat development deal. Despite the millions in brainwashing attempts and hiding results of earlier polls on the issue - they celebrated not long ago that a majority of Newfoundlanders and Labradorians finally agree with the deal. Really?
The poll results are low enough now that the Tories are not governing with any moral authority. The poll results are a reflection of people beginning to understand the Muskrat giveaway will cost their children, great grandchildren, and great-great grandchildren a fortune. The polls are a reflection of the peoples utter disgust with policy and laws of secrecy. The polls are a reflection that people despise the incompetence and false arrogance of this regime.
So Minister Kennedy is really saying to hell with the people - we will do as we want - when we want. The real strength of the backbench is now being displayed as they sit idly by - not really knowing what to do.
Minister Kennedy is acting as if - we - the people are opposing counsel and he will fight us with the best he's got. Unfortunately Minister - you don't have the right stuff - to win this battle. The Court of Public Opinion has spoken - you have lost the case. Appeal if you dare - my guess is - you will lose that also. When the Supreme Court of Public Opinion speaks - the precedent will be set. Dunderdale, Kennedy and Co. will probably achieve a feat of Mulroney proportions - they will have wiped out the PC Party in Newfoundland and Labrador. Perhaps Ross Wiseman can pull a Peter MacKay.
A conclusion should be made by the people that NOW is the time to stop this government from proceeding further with the Muskrat fiasco. Stop it now while only 10% has been spent. This project can be halted in its tracks and the only ones who''ll be crying are the 5 or 6 people/corporations that are actually going to make serious money on this sell-out.
We have not passed the point of no return on Muskrat - but the PC's have passed the point of no return with the people.
Try to be honourable ladies and gents and call a referendum on whether the project should proceed.
The stench which is SNC Lavalin is pleasantly perfumy when compared with the smell of sewer gas spewing from the decomposition from within.
There is no reason for any administration to continue a project like Muskrat when they have lost the confidence of the people. If the government continues with this now - it's not for the benefit of Newfoundlanders and Labradorians.
Tuesday, November 20, 2012
Of Polls - Mice - and Wo"men"
Safe bet to say that most people support developing Muskrat Falls - so the polling question was carefully written and produced a predictable result.
The Tories and their absolute waste of dollars that could be used for health, education, housing, clean water, and roads - is also predictable.
It is this project at whatever cost.
Sure look at the Penashue fiasco and how hard he would fight to keep his Cabinet post while dismissing the calls for an Inquiry on the death of Burton Winters.
Look at the likes of Keith Russell who should not be near a hockey rink let alone the House of Assembly.
Then there's the potential for conflict all over the place as Tories do as they wish with our money and then refuse to give us the details.
How about a poll that asks the following:
1. Should the proposed Muskrat Falls deal be reviewed by the Public Utilities Board?
2. Do you agree that a referendum should be held before the sanctioning of the proposed Muskrat Falls project?
3. Do you support the proposed development of Muskrat Falls if it costs 8 billion dollars?
4. Do you support the proposed development of Muskrat Falls if it costs 9 billion dollars?
5. Do you support the proposed development of Muskrat Falls if it costs 10 billion dollars?
6. Do you support the subsidization of mining companies in the form of cheaper power if your power bill goes up as a result?
7. Do you support further exploring other alternatives for power supply before the proposed Muskrat Falls development is sanctioned?
8. Do you believe we will run out of power if we do not proceed with the proposed Muskrat Falls development?
9. Why do you believe the Government of Newfoundland and Labrador is developing Muskrat Falls?
10. Who is the power being developed for?
The Tories are out of control - they are getting away with "blue murder" as my grandmother would have said.
They are shutting down debate - they are closing off information - they are dictating terms of review - and generally they are playing around with our money like they are playing a game of monopoly in the shed while having a beer.
The Opposition parties had better start doing more than preening themselves for shots on cable. This is one mess of a deal and it will have consequences that will make the Upper Churchill look like a gem.
Everything is a big Tory party - blue blue blue - ya hooo hooo. The big boys - the business elite are wringing their paws as they drool at the thought of the billions they could get part of. They are NOT responsible to the people and they are NOT responsible to do what is best for us.
Ches Penney's company believes in the Power of Newfoundland and Labrador right? Well after looking at the Penashue election fiasco who gives a shit about the law or rules?
Martin and Bennett appear to be running the province - driven by the business elite - while the politicians party. Poor Kathy, Susan, and Joan are hard pressed to keep up with the social engagements afforded by their temporary power.
Stop this fiasco.
The Tories and their absolute waste of dollars that could be used for health, education, housing, clean water, and roads - is also predictable.
It is this project at whatever cost.
Sure look at the Penashue fiasco and how hard he would fight to keep his Cabinet post while dismissing the calls for an Inquiry on the death of Burton Winters.
Look at the likes of Keith Russell who should not be near a hockey rink let alone the House of Assembly.
Then there's the potential for conflict all over the place as Tories do as they wish with our money and then refuse to give us the details.
How about a poll that asks the following:
1. Should the proposed Muskrat Falls deal be reviewed by the Public Utilities Board?
2. Do you agree that a referendum should be held before the sanctioning of the proposed Muskrat Falls project?
3. Do you support the proposed development of Muskrat Falls if it costs 8 billion dollars?
4. Do you support the proposed development of Muskrat Falls if it costs 9 billion dollars?
5. Do you support the proposed development of Muskrat Falls if it costs 10 billion dollars?
6. Do you support the subsidization of mining companies in the form of cheaper power if your power bill goes up as a result?
7. Do you support further exploring other alternatives for power supply before the proposed Muskrat Falls development is sanctioned?
8. Do you believe we will run out of power if we do not proceed with the proposed Muskrat Falls development?
9. Why do you believe the Government of Newfoundland and Labrador is developing Muskrat Falls?
10. Who is the power being developed for?
The Tories are out of control - they are getting away with "blue murder" as my grandmother would have said.
They are shutting down debate - they are closing off information - they are dictating terms of review - and generally they are playing around with our money like they are playing a game of monopoly in the shed while having a beer.
The Opposition parties had better start doing more than preening themselves for shots on cable. This is one mess of a deal and it will have consequences that will make the Upper Churchill look like a gem.
Everything is a big Tory party - blue blue blue - ya hooo hooo. The big boys - the business elite are wringing their paws as they drool at the thought of the billions they could get part of. They are NOT responsible to the people and they are NOT responsible to do what is best for us.
Ches Penney's company believes in the Power of Newfoundland and Labrador right? Well after looking at the Penashue election fiasco who gives a shit about the law or rules?
Martin and Bennett appear to be running the province - driven by the business elite - while the politicians party. Poor Kathy, Susan, and Joan are hard pressed to keep up with the social engagements afforded by their temporary power.
Stop this fiasco.
Monday, September 10, 2012
Muskrat Chill and Dunderdale's Parkas
CBC News Newfoundland and Labrador ran a clip on their late night broadcast of Premier Kathy Dunderdale commenting on the latest CRA poll results.
The quote from Dunderdale was:
"When you take on stewardship you have to be prepared to make difficult decisions sometimes that aren't popular but it's always nice when you have support of the majority of people, we have that and I'm grateful for it."
First of all the Premier and her government do not have support of the majority of people - they are governing because in "a snapshot in time" in October the majority of people who voted supported them.
Now considering the Premier claims she does not govern based on polls - I suggest she does not use popularity as a reason.
The "difficult decisions sometimes that aren't popular" piece as Dunderdale and her colleagues would phrase it - leaves me very perplexed. The erosion of support is based on difficult and unpopular decisions?
Let's see - so the Muskrat Falls fiasco is a difficult decision that is unpopular?
Decisions on what?
Is this a confirmation that polls are taking place internally on the Emera deal and they are not showing favourably?
There is no doubt that this proposed energy project is causing a significant drop in the popularity of the Premier and her government. Now come the tough questions versus the tough decisions.
1. British Columbia forced a referendum on HST through a tool in their democracy chest and the government had to live with the consequences. The harmonized sales tax policy is similar to the Muskrat Falls development deal in that it involves changes that affect consumers on mass and revenue streams for government. Will this government allow democracy to govern and call a referendum on this deal?
2. What can be done to force a referendum on this issue?
3. Considering this one project could amass a debt load equivalent to our entire debt now - is it not appropriate for the Premier and her government to seek permission over and above a "snapshot in time" result in October?
4. Considering very significant information on this deal and financial consequences were not known at the time of the last provincial election - how does the Premier feel she has vetted the public on it?
5. Will former PC and Liberal Cabinet Ministers step to the plate as former Premier Bill Vander Zalm did in British Columbia and rally the people to demand a referendum?
The Muskrat Chill refuses to thaw and the relationship between people and the government is getting frosty. The Premier can choose to pile on parkas or warm up to the people she is "humbled" to represent.
The quote from Dunderdale was:
"When you take on stewardship you have to be prepared to make difficult decisions sometimes that aren't popular but it's always nice when you have support of the majority of people, we have that and I'm grateful for it."
First of all the Premier and her government do not have support of the majority of people - they are governing because in "a snapshot in time" in October the majority of people who voted supported them.
Now considering the Premier claims she does not govern based on polls - I suggest she does not use popularity as a reason.
The "difficult decisions sometimes that aren't popular" piece as Dunderdale and her colleagues would phrase it - leaves me very perplexed. The erosion of support is based on difficult and unpopular decisions?
Let's see - so the Muskrat Falls fiasco is a difficult decision that is unpopular?
Decisions on what?
Is this a confirmation that polls are taking place internally on the Emera deal and they are not showing favourably?
There is no doubt that this proposed energy project is causing a significant drop in the popularity of the Premier and her government. Now come the tough questions versus the tough decisions.
1. British Columbia forced a referendum on HST through a tool in their democracy chest and the government had to live with the consequences. The harmonized sales tax policy is similar to the Muskrat Falls development deal in that it involves changes that affect consumers on mass and revenue streams for government. Will this government allow democracy to govern and call a referendum on this deal?
2. What can be done to force a referendum on this issue?
3. Considering this one project could amass a debt load equivalent to our entire debt now - is it not appropriate for the Premier and her government to seek permission over and above a "snapshot in time" result in October?
4. Considering very significant information on this deal and financial consequences were not known at the time of the last provincial election - how does the Premier feel she has vetted the public on it?
5. Will former PC and Liberal Cabinet Ministers step to the plate as former Premier Bill Vander Zalm did in British Columbia and rally the people to demand a referendum?
The Muskrat Chill refuses to thaw and the relationship between people and the government is getting frosty. The Premier can choose to pile on parkas or warm up to the people she is "humbled" to represent.
Friday, September 07, 2012
Dunderdale Come Clean on Polling!
Premier Dunderdale says:
“Polls provide a snapshot in time. Responsible leaders do not govern based on polls.”
“We will continue to govern according to the vision, principles and platform on which we were elected.”
A few questions for our Premier:
1. Does or has her party or government engaged any polling?
2. Why did her party or government engage polling?
3. Do any of her party members or political staffers involve themselves in non-scientific polling such as VOCM's question of the day or CBC NL's online questions or NTV's occasional viewer polls, or the Tely Polls?
4. Has there been any polls conducted on the Muskrat Falls proposed development - between Emera and Nalcor - by her government or party?
5. During the last provincial election did the PC Party of which Dunderdale is the leader engage or use any results of "non-solicited" polls?
6. Considering the election is a poll and a "snapshot in time" is Dunderdale prepared to go to the people by referendum on the Muskrat Falls proposed development?
7. Has the Premier, or her Party or staff ever used the results of polling to publicly state that support is with them?
8. What does Dunderdale attribute the latest "snapshot in time" result to?
9. What singular issue has garnered the most public debate over the past 10 months?
10. Considering the "snapshots in time" results continue to show loss of support for her and her government - does Dunderdale believe this is as a result of the proposed Muskrat Falls deal?
“Polls provide a snapshot in time. Responsible leaders do not govern based on polls.”
“We will continue to govern according to the vision, principles and platform on which we were elected.”
A few questions for our Premier:
1. Does or has her party or government engaged any polling?
2. Why did her party or government engage polling?
3. Do any of her party members or political staffers involve themselves in non-scientific polling such as VOCM's question of the day or CBC NL's online questions or NTV's occasional viewer polls, or the Tely Polls?
4. Has there been any polls conducted on the Muskrat Falls proposed development - between Emera and Nalcor - by her government or party?
5. During the last provincial election did the PC Party of which Dunderdale is the leader engage or use any results of "non-solicited" polls?
6. Considering the election is a poll and a "snapshot in time" is Dunderdale prepared to go to the people by referendum on the Muskrat Falls proposed development?
7. Has the Premier, or her Party or staff ever used the results of polling to publicly state that support is with them?
8. What does Dunderdale attribute the latest "snapshot in time" result to?
9. What singular issue has garnered the most public debate over the past 10 months?
10. Considering the "snapshots in time" results continue to show loss of support for her and her government - does Dunderdale believe this is as a result of the proposed Muskrat Falls deal?
Monday, February 06, 2012
What's the One Thing Missing from Muskrat Discussion?
From the day Kathy Dunderdale inherited the Premiership what has been missing in the Muskrat discussion?
Scientific Polls - At least those that have been released publicly.
This government is poll crazy - I believe they have been conducting polls; so where are they?
Scientific Polls - At least those that have been released publicly.
This government is poll crazy - I believe they have been conducting polls; so where are they?
Friday, October 07, 2011
CBC needs to Rethink - Decisions Questionable
Did anybody catch the political panel on CBC Here and Now tonight?
If you did you were probably scratching your head.
First question - did CBC choose the panelists?
PC representative - Ross Reid Current Campaign Chair Forever Tory
NDP representative - Lana Payne active with current and ongoing ties to the NDP
Liberal representative - Bill Matthews the Liberal/PC with no obvious current ties to the Liberals
This was an obvious problem from the get go. First Matthews has not always been Liberal - rather for a significant period of his political career he was Tory. Second - he has not been obviously involved with the Party during this election or over the past number of years. Third - he seemed disconnected with what's current in the Libs organization and campaign.
This contrasts completely with the other two individuals who are stalwarts of their respective parties and are obviously current and involved.
The first question revolved around the ongoing battle in St. John's Centre and the battle between Gerry Rogers NDP and the incumbent Shawn Skinner PC. Really there was nothing left to do but agree for Bill.
Then we got into the polls and the expectation of seats. Ross Reid just had to sit back and let Bill Matthews do the hacking for him. Lana predicted 5 for the NDP and then predicted 4-5 for the Liberals. Ross just sat there smug as Bill agreed with Lana and was unable to talk about any seats outside the overpass. Ross sat there again letting them split 7 or 8 seats.
Regardless of the types of polls done - accurate or inaccurate - when you remove the greater St. John's areas and a few strong Tory seats in other areas of the province - the numbers for a significant number of rural seats would probably show a very close split between the Liberals and Tories.
Let's look at this:
Yvonne Jones - does anybody believe she is at 16%?
Andrew Parsons?
Eddie Joyce?
Dwight Ball?
Kevin Aylward?
Neil Ward?
Joanna Guy Ryan?
Danny Dumderesque?
Wayne Morris?
Eric Skinner?
Merv Wiseman?
Chris Montague?
Randy Edmunds?
Todd Squires?
Leanne Hussey?
Jim Bennett?
Marshall Dean?
Barry Snow?
Ryan Lane?
I could carry on. Anybody like to take a crack at the popular vote in these districts before the election?
Despite the continued attack on the Liberals by certain anti-liberal media it will be interesting to check these polls on election day.
I have to say CBC - the panel on tonight was the worst demonstration of balance I have ever seen. That is unless the Liberal party sent Matthews. If that's the case - something worse is on the go.
If you did you were probably scratching your head.
First question - did CBC choose the panelists?
PC representative - Ross Reid Current Campaign Chair Forever Tory
NDP representative - Lana Payne active with current and ongoing ties to the NDP
Liberal representative - Bill Matthews the Liberal/PC with no obvious current ties to the Liberals
This was an obvious problem from the get go. First Matthews has not always been Liberal - rather for a significant period of his political career he was Tory. Second - he has not been obviously involved with the Party during this election or over the past number of years. Third - he seemed disconnected with what's current in the Libs organization and campaign.
This contrasts completely with the other two individuals who are stalwarts of their respective parties and are obviously current and involved.
The first question revolved around the ongoing battle in St. John's Centre and the battle between Gerry Rogers NDP and the incumbent Shawn Skinner PC. Really there was nothing left to do but agree for Bill.
Then we got into the polls and the expectation of seats. Ross Reid just had to sit back and let Bill Matthews do the hacking for him. Lana predicted 5 for the NDP and then predicted 4-5 for the Liberals. Ross just sat there smug as Bill agreed with Lana and was unable to talk about any seats outside the overpass. Ross sat there again letting them split 7 or 8 seats.
Regardless of the types of polls done - accurate or inaccurate - when you remove the greater St. John's areas and a few strong Tory seats in other areas of the province - the numbers for a significant number of rural seats would probably show a very close split between the Liberals and Tories.
Let's look at this:
Yvonne Jones - does anybody believe she is at 16%?
Andrew Parsons?
Eddie Joyce?
Dwight Ball?
Kevin Aylward?
Neil Ward?
Joanna Guy Ryan?
Danny Dumderesque?
Wayne Morris?
Eric Skinner?
Merv Wiseman?
Chris Montague?
Randy Edmunds?
Todd Squires?
Leanne Hussey?
Jim Bennett?
Marshall Dean?
Barry Snow?
Ryan Lane?
I could carry on. Anybody like to take a crack at the popular vote in these districts before the election?
Despite the continued attack on the Liberals by certain anti-liberal media it will be interesting to check these polls on election day.
I have to say CBC - the panel on tonight was the worst demonstration of balance I have ever seen. That is unless the Liberal party sent Matthews. If that's the case - something worse is on the go.
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