Since 2006 Sue's Blog has been warning through posts about the disastrous Muskrat Falls project.
Bits and pieces of the Inquiry refer to critics of the project - not being experts.
Let's take that at face value and reflect upon the experts.
Clearly the highly paid experts were wrong in many areas of assessment. Clearly they failed initially to project and overcome engineering and design difficulties regarding the site. Clearly the project is a failure on every measurable level.
Miraculously the non-experts were right in many areas of assessment. Miraculously the non-experts did not miss the peculiarities of the site engineering. Miraculously they were successful in assessing the Muskrat Falls deal was horrific.
Now the other non-experts (politicians) were clearly incapable of understanding what the experts were concluding. They were clearly unable to see the massive flaws in the deal and the engineering. They were clearly non-experts listening to paid experts -most of whom will not likely suffer from this boondoggle.
For what use is an expert - if the person acting on an "experts" advice would not be independently be able to see the potential flaws? What's worse - the politicians refused to listen to critics - ignored or worse subjected the non-experts to terms such as partisans, naysayers, and conspiracy theorists.
There were opportunities to engage the citizenry but they were not afforded.
Citizen groups should have been provided funding throughout the processes from conception to sanction. This funding could have provided the non-expert politicians with real concerns, real hazards, and real findings from the non-expert citizenry.
Further this size of a deal should have gone through a referendum process where - the citizen non-experts were given the opportunity to promote and educate regarding their points of view and real concerns.
You see if the non-expert politicians felt expert enough to make the legislative commitment - they should have allowed the non-expert citizenry a real opportunity to be heard.
None of the politicians did this. No political party did this.
Declining population, increasing efficiencies in housing and appliances, closure of two mills, numerous fish plants, schools, clinics etc are examples of reasonable considerations to determine future power supply requirements.
Muskrat Falls versus the entire Lower Churchill or even Gull Island begged the question why choose Muskrat.
Emera owning ANY part of our domestic distribution system is illogical and not to our benefit. It will increase prices.
Dealing with Emera - a company that could be the subject of a hostile or welcome takeover - particularly when Hydro-Quebec is the touted enemy - and could easily consume Emera minus Nova Scotia Power - was a poor choice.
The critical removal of alternate energy sources into the future was naive at best and corrupt at worst.
The engineering challenges - poorly thought out, considered, or even dealt with was another red flag for a layman.
The power needs of Labrador - routinely and as is usual dismissed including but not limited to plugging an industry of substance into the new supply - another red flag.
The continued interference with the Public Utilities Board - when they are the stop gap for consumers - yet another red flag.
Budgets that were routinely over - became the norm - raising another red flag.
The lack of knowledge of many MHA's regarding the history of the hydro-potentials in Labrador was and continues to be a very disturbing situation.
The obvious angst of indigenous peoples despite the approval by some of their leaders should have been addressed.
This is but a short list of how a citizen could have been and some citizens were very concerned about this failed project.
The decision by Dwight Ball and the Liberal government to push through the remainder of the project without thorough analysis and public input into other options - just continued the madness that is Muskrat.
The Inquiry is a political decision to thwart anger of consumers and taxpayers away from the current government and will do nothing to demonstrate the mess that occurred after they took office.
The EXperts they say? Funny how the naysayers, conspiracy theorists, partisan hacks, and all other names given to critics of the project - were miraculously right.
As I write today the folly continues and we are made to look more the fools than we already are.
Showing posts with label kathy dunderdale. Show all posts
Showing posts with label kathy dunderdale. Show all posts
Tuesday, October 16, 2018
Saturday, September 09, 2017
Ask yourself - Why?
Politicians are elected by us to represent us.
No doubt for some of us - from the inception of the Muskrat fiasco deal - politicians have not been doing that.
Now the majority of us do not want Muskrat Falls.
The majority of us want a forensic audit now.
The majority of us want a public inquiry now.
The majority of us want Muskrat stopped until we can examine all of our options.
So why are politicians - most of whom want to be re-elected - continuing to ignore the wishes of the majority of people - without any substantiated reasoning?
The majority of politicians who want to be re-elected are wannabe career politicians. It's the best gig they can get. They are gutless and either deliberately ignorant or unable or unwilling to learn.
Some politicians do not want or expect to be elected again and their masters for whatever reason are not the people of the province.
Some politicians make decisions in their own best interests and that many times conflicts with what's in the best interests of the people.
The vast majority of politicians are me first, party second, and people third.
Now we need to figure out what classification each of our politicians fall into.
Let's start with the Muskrat leaders: Dwight Ball, Paul Davis, Tom Marshall, Kathy Dunderdale, and Danny Williams.
No doubt for some of us - from the inception of the Muskrat fiasco deal - politicians have not been doing that.
Now the majority of us do not want Muskrat Falls.
The majority of us want a forensic audit now.
The majority of us want a public inquiry now.
The majority of us want Muskrat stopped until we can examine all of our options.
So why are politicians - most of whom want to be re-elected - continuing to ignore the wishes of the majority of people - without any substantiated reasoning?
The majority of politicians who want to be re-elected are wannabe career politicians. It's the best gig they can get. They are gutless and either deliberately ignorant or unable or unwilling to learn.
Some politicians do not want or expect to be elected again and their masters for whatever reason are not the people of the province.
Some politicians make decisions in their own best interests and that many times conflicts with what's in the best interests of the people.
The vast majority of politicians are me first, party second, and people third.
Now we need to figure out what classification each of our politicians fall into.
Let's start with the Muskrat leaders: Dwight Ball, Paul Davis, Tom Marshall, Kathy Dunderdale, and Danny Williams.
Tuesday, October 25, 2016
Post construction hangovers - Muskrat
Newfoundland and Labrador must have the worst record in the developed world for natural resource projects.
As Labrador rises up - rightfully so - against the poisoning of their people - the Island population is in its usual temporary jobs trance.
Premier after Premier in our history promised new wealth and growth through commitments of change in the development of our resources.
Always with the exception of one - we have been let down - robbed - and depressed as these commitments disappeared.
Each and every time the lure of quick and temporary jobs tempers the outcry of the public that we've given something else away.
Can we actually claim that jobs created during the construction of the Upper Churchill were in any way compensatory for the billions of dollars of lost revenue? As we charge Hydro Quebec 1/5th of a cent per kilowatt hour and they sell it at 100 times that - can we really celebrate the construction jobs?
We have done the same with minerals, oil, fish, and forestry.
The mourning of the Upper Churchill contract has been longstanding. There is no way we would ever let that happen again right? We swore - it would never happen again.
Now it has. The Muskrat Falls project is worse than the Upper Churchill - we will pay for this project - our children and grandchildren will pay for this project. Unlike the Upper - this project is over budget - unsafe and unnecessary.
Only yesterday I seen stories of people complaining about being off the job because Labradorians have the gall to demand a reduction in the poisonous aftermath of the flooding.
There is no justification to keep this going.
Here's what we have:
Danny Williams says great deal - many people say not so fast but were ignored by the media and called traitors, conspiracy theorists and naysayers by the politicians.
Williams leaves and then Dunderdale's job is to keep it moving no matter what. Many people were crying stop and warning the population that this project was bad and should be stopped.
The PC's Liberals and NDP allowed the project to keep going.
The PC's delayed the election to allow more money to be spent while the Liberals and NDP permitted the Tories to get away with it.
The media still not tuned in. Continue to ignore the many voices warning the people that this project would cause irreparable harm.
People were once again lured with well paying construction jobs for short-term personal gain - while these very employees were subjecting their own children and grandchildren to years of financial pain and continue to do so.
The unions did their special interest bidding and completely ignored the damage to the province as a whole. One group of unions would of course cause problems for another set of unions as the province would have to lay-off CUPE and NAPE members and have no money for teachers or nurses.
Labour spokespeople like Lana Payne encouraging the development and making sure the NDP followed suit.
This project needs to be stopped. We must have a complete resolve to the Northern Spur and we must know what the costs are to stop the project. This is not-withstanding the issues Labrador faces with environmental costs.
We need a referendum on this - and we need it now.
Where's the leadership?
Where is the commitment of all our people that we would never ever again let the Upper Churchill happen again?
We are letting yet another 3 generations down - as we bankrupt their future and allow corporate interests rob our resources.
As Labrador rises up - rightfully so - against the poisoning of their people - the Island population is in its usual temporary jobs trance.
Premier after Premier in our history promised new wealth and growth through commitments of change in the development of our resources.
Always with the exception of one - we have been let down - robbed - and depressed as these commitments disappeared.
Each and every time the lure of quick and temporary jobs tempers the outcry of the public that we've given something else away.
Can we actually claim that jobs created during the construction of the Upper Churchill were in any way compensatory for the billions of dollars of lost revenue? As we charge Hydro Quebec 1/5th of a cent per kilowatt hour and they sell it at 100 times that - can we really celebrate the construction jobs?
We have done the same with minerals, oil, fish, and forestry.
The mourning of the Upper Churchill contract has been longstanding. There is no way we would ever let that happen again right? We swore - it would never happen again.
Now it has. The Muskrat Falls project is worse than the Upper Churchill - we will pay for this project - our children and grandchildren will pay for this project. Unlike the Upper - this project is over budget - unsafe and unnecessary.
Only yesterday I seen stories of people complaining about being off the job because Labradorians have the gall to demand a reduction in the poisonous aftermath of the flooding.
There is no justification to keep this going.
Here's what we have:
Danny Williams says great deal - many people say not so fast but were ignored by the media and called traitors, conspiracy theorists and naysayers by the politicians.
Williams leaves and then Dunderdale's job is to keep it moving no matter what. Many people were crying stop and warning the population that this project was bad and should be stopped.
The PC's Liberals and NDP allowed the project to keep going.
The PC's delayed the election to allow more money to be spent while the Liberals and NDP permitted the Tories to get away with it.
The media still not tuned in. Continue to ignore the many voices warning the people that this project would cause irreparable harm.
People were once again lured with well paying construction jobs for short-term personal gain - while these very employees were subjecting their own children and grandchildren to years of financial pain and continue to do so.
The unions did their special interest bidding and completely ignored the damage to the province as a whole. One group of unions would of course cause problems for another set of unions as the province would have to lay-off CUPE and NAPE members and have no money for teachers or nurses.
Labour spokespeople like Lana Payne encouraging the development and making sure the NDP followed suit.
This project needs to be stopped. We must have a complete resolve to the Northern Spur and we must know what the costs are to stop the project. This is not-withstanding the issues Labrador faces with environmental costs.
We need a referendum on this - and we need it now.
Where's the leadership?
Where is the commitment of all our people that we would never ever again let the Upper Churchill happen again?
We are letting yet another 3 generations down - as we bankrupt their future and allow corporate interests rob our resources.
Thursday, April 30, 2015
Somewhere Over the Budget
"Somewhere Over The Budget" "What a Wasted World"
a Newfoundland and Labrador Lament
I hear babies cry and I watch them grow,
They'll learn much more than we'll know
And I think to myself
What do they think of their world
Someday I'll wish upon a star,
Wake up where the Tories are far behind me
Where trouble melts like Muskrat drops
High above the Holyrood chimney top
That's where you'll find me
Oh, somewhere over the budget way up high
And the dream that you dare to, what oh what did they do?
a Newfoundland and Labrador Lament
Somewhere over the budget
Way up high
And the dreams that you dreamed of
now will go Bye Bye
Somewhere over the budget
Way up high
And the dreams that you dreamed of
now will go Bye Bye
Somewhere over the budget
Blue backbenchers fly
And the dreams that you dreamed of
Dreams really don't come true ooh oh
Someday I'll wish upon a star
Wake up where the Tories are far behind me
Where trouble melts like Muskrat drops
High above Holyrood chimney tops
That's where you'll find me
Oh, somewhere over the budget backbenchers fly
And the dream that you dare to,
Oh why, oh why can't I?
Well I see trees of debt and red ink too,
I'll watch them saddle me and you
And I think to myself
What a wasted world
Well I see skies of blue
And I see clouds of blue
And the light during the day
I like the dark
And I think to myself
What a darknl world
The colors of the Muskrat so clear in the sky
Are also on the faces of people passing by
I see friends clasping hands
Saying, "What did they do?"
They're really saying, oh we're screwed.
And the dreams that you dreamed of
Dreams really don't come true ooh oh
Someday I'll wish upon a star
Wake up where the Tories are far behind me
Where trouble melts like Muskrat drops
High above Holyrood chimney tops
That's where you'll find me
Oh, somewhere over the budget backbenchers fly
And the dream that you dare to,
Oh why, oh why can't I?
Well I see trees of debt and red ink too,
I'll watch them saddle me and you
And I think to myself
What a wasted world
Well I see skies of blue
And I see clouds of blue
And the light during the day
I like the dark
And I think to myself
What a darknl world
The colors of the Muskrat so clear in the sky
Are also on the faces of people passing by
I see friends clasping hands
Saying, "What did they do?"
They're really saying, oh we're screwed.
I hear babies cry and I watch them grow,
They'll learn much more than we'll know
And I think to myself
What do they think of their world
Someday I'll wish upon a star,
Wake up where the Tories are far behind me
Where trouble melts like Muskrat drops
High above the Holyrood chimney top
That's where you'll find me
Oh, somewhere over the budget way up high
And the dream that you dare to, what oh what did they do?
Wednesday, November 26, 2014
Kent reveals Tory problem
After seven by-election losses in a row - the Tories are on their way out. Many of them understand what the people are saying and are planning their retirements in one way or another.
What happened to the PC's?
Media and some pundits credit the loss of public support to Danny Williams departure. I don't accept that reasoning rather I credit the downfall to Danny Williams leadership style and policies.
In my opinion - Williams enjoyed being surrounded by weak people (those who would not dare defy him) and eliminating those who might. (Beth Marshall, Paul Shelley, Tom Osborne and Fabian Manning) Danny did not build a strong leadership pool nor did he take the time to consult or include grass-roots Tories. I believe it was after all - all about him.
Danny's policy choices - most importantly - Muskrat Falls - have not been embraced by the people. Williams pot of money for governing was huge - oil revenues galore and let's not forget the benefits of Voisey's. These were Liberal deals and timing made it his administrations money.
How he spent that money - on behalf of the people - did not equate into anything more than quick wealth on the Avalon and a wonderful market to build houses in.
We are in debt trouble, we are in deficit trouble, we are in demographic trouble, and we are in free fall. Highly doubtful that his Galway community is going to be the golden touch project he thought it might be.
People are very concerned about Muskrat Falls - the cost - the purpose - and most importantly the giveaway. Our resources should be used to grow our population - create long-term well paying jobs. It was Danny who was champion of this concept while in Opposition. Then how do we explain his fisheries, forestry, mining, and hydro policies? We can't because - once Premier - the giveaways were okay.
In what I refer to as Danny's decade - the province has not enjoyed growth in any real way. They all pump up the GDP - but who cares if that indicator is in isolation from other meaningful indicators such as population growth and age. Growth on the Avalon is attributed to shrinking in rural populations.
The former Premier got out before the crap hit the fan - but before he did - he groomed weak people to continue his path. His first was Kathy Dunderdale. The joy and pride of being Danny's chosen one was evident from day one. She would carry the Muskrat torch to the end - while he would carry on with his business interests - power to the Avalon and mining in Labrador.
His other political weaklings included Kennedy, Marshall, Kent, Johnson, Sullivan, Shea, and King (essentially the Cabinet base) were somehow of the belief somehow that they had a crack at the top job now.
When the day came however for a leadership race - they ran away - hid under Danny's coattails once again and allowed an "interim" Premier who did not want the job (supposedly) to actually win - uncontested. The beginning of the end.
As all political weaklings do - as party fortunes were changing - they pointed a finger at somebody else - not them - no not them. A bunch of children standing in front of a broken window.
Eventually their finger pointing and whispers caught on with an uninspired media and we were advised that Kathy Dunderdale had problems communicating the "really good" things they were doing.
As with gutless bullies in packs - they worked on Dunderdale until she left. There they sighed - all must be good now right?
Onward to a leadership election - while nice man Tom kept the Williams adoration embers burning. Minus their political guru Danny - the guys and gals did not know which way was up - they did not know which way to go. We had speculation on a dozen or so within the PC caucus who were thinking about it. One by one they dropped off - as the collective wisdom determined they needed a fresh face - somebody from outside. So Wayne Bennett and Bill Barry stepped forward while Danny's Cabinet flourished being followers. Barry came out bold - aggressive - unpolished while Bennett annoyed the Party brass.
As might be expected when the weak did not know what to do - Danny stepped in and proclaimed Barry unfit for leadership and indirectly pushed for a fellow named Frank Coleman. As with all good sheep the caucus followed and proceeded to prepare for a Frank coronation despite the presence of a formidable opponent (Barry).
We heard excuse after excuse from former wannabe leaders within the sitting rank and file - ranging from "not my time" to "health" to "family priorities".
Meanwhile Barry was fighting a losing battle in a delegated convention wherein his commentary to the people of the province really did not matter if the Party brass was orchestrating a winner.
Many people asked why Coleman - a political neophyte - by reports private family and business man would throw himself under the bright lights of politics. This was quickly followed by awkward appearances of a man who appeared quite friendly but out of his comfort zone.
Barry following the condemnation by the great one and in true gritty business style - weighed his odds and determined the risk was unfitting the unlikely reward. Barry quit leaving Coleman as an unwilling political deer in headlights. What followed was not able to be scripted. Coleman became Premier in waiting - even starting to put together staff for his 8th floor domain. Then like an unpredicted failure of a detonation test - HVP - came to the fore. I think it's fair to say the Coleman will be remembered in Newfoundland and Labrador for performance bonds related to a paving contract not for almost becoming Premier. As quick as you could say "cheese" for a photograph - we had the sad picture of Coleman's back as he walked away from his indescribably short political stint.
Now what? Well the wannabes who all had excuses they wanted us to believe just a month or two before - shed those reasons and came flying back to the leadership race. Once again we had the speculation of who was running - who was supporting - who had a chance. In the end - and after another stint with the nice man - there was Ottenheimer, Davis, and Kent. The once held idea of a new fresh face was replaced with the need for experience. Ironically the same weaklings who just a month before were willing to accept a fellow who had never sought political office before were now questioning the option of Ottenheimer because he did not have a seat in the legislature.
When Steve Kent started his political climb - I remember a young man tenting on the corner of streets with a sign - asking the people of Mount Pearl to support him for Council. It must have been a real power rush - some years later - to find himself a political traffic cop on the corner directing leadership. Here he was - a new man - at the heart of political power in the province - a kingmaker. Kent relished it - played it up - played coy - loved the attention and could not believe he was actually in a position to broker his own political pinnacle.
Ottenheimer claimed the fix was in - Davis and Kent denied it and then in a joyous coming-out paraded it on the convention floor. Shortly thereafter he became Deputy Premier. Did this new power go to his head? Unfortunately yes - culminating in Tweets last night after his party's loss of two more by-elections. Here they are:
1. What's next? You're going to see bold, progressive leadership from@PaulDavisNL and the @PCPartyNL. We've got big plans for this province.
2. There was no honeymoon period for our new Premier. That's life. A lot can change over the next year. Things change fast in politics.#NLpoli
3. Our Party still has a clear majority. We still plan to bring in a Throne Speech and a Budget. We will govern. We will lead.
4. The transformation in NL over the last decade has been nothing short of extraordinary. We're still the best party to govern.#PCNL #NLpoli
Unfortunately his words represent what IS wrong with the Tories. The real problem. He in essence has concluded the following: we don't care what the people think - we are right, we don't care what the people say we will lead anyway, we own the province and we are going to do what we want - what we think is best, and in spite of the people we are in power and plan to keep it that way.
Unfortunately the tweets also have a ring of desperation in them. That is because Kent believes that politics is a career rather than a period of public service. Career politicians are not helpful - not insightful - not life experienced - and not leaders. They expect a leader to perform for them - to ensure the longevity of the benefits both financial and social that politics and the people have provided.
Kent personifies the Tory problem - imagine if he is the only Tory seat left after the next general election. He does not like the prospect and it shows.
I believe the real strings of the Tory machine are well above Kent's power level. While he might be seen as a pliable one of those strings the puppeteers simply want to keep power for other more tangible business reasons. That's a sphere than Kent will never be allowed to enter - but he can certainly man the coat-check for those entering the real corridors of power.
What happened to the PC's?
Media and some pundits credit the loss of public support to Danny Williams departure. I don't accept that reasoning rather I credit the downfall to Danny Williams leadership style and policies.
In my opinion - Williams enjoyed being surrounded by weak people (those who would not dare defy him) and eliminating those who might. (Beth Marshall, Paul Shelley, Tom Osborne and Fabian Manning) Danny did not build a strong leadership pool nor did he take the time to consult or include grass-roots Tories. I believe it was after all - all about him.
Danny's policy choices - most importantly - Muskrat Falls - have not been embraced by the people. Williams pot of money for governing was huge - oil revenues galore and let's not forget the benefits of Voisey's. These were Liberal deals and timing made it his administrations money.
How he spent that money - on behalf of the people - did not equate into anything more than quick wealth on the Avalon and a wonderful market to build houses in.
We are in debt trouble, we are in deficit trouble, we are in demographic trouble, and we are in free fall. Highly doubtful that his Galway community is going to be the golden touch project he thought it might be.
People are very concerned about Muskrat Falls - the cost - the purpose - and most importantly the giveaway. Our resources should be used to grow our population - create long-term well paying jobs. It was Danny who was champion of this concept while in Opposition. Then how do we explain his fisheries, forestry, mining, and hydro policies? We can't because - once Premier - the giveaways were okay.
In what I refer to as Danny's decade - the province has not enjoyed growth in any real way. They all pump up the GDP - but who cares if that indicator is in isolation from other meaningful indicators such as population growth and age. Growth on the Avalon is attributed to shrinking in rural populations.
The former Premier got out before the crap hit the fan - but before he did - he groomed weak people to continue his path. His first was Kathy Dunderdale. The joy and pride of being Danny's chosen one was evident from day one. She would carry the Muskrat torch to the end - while he would carry on with his business interests - power to the Avalon and mining in Labrador.
His other political weaklings included Kennedy, Marshall, Kent, Johnson, Sullivan, Shea, and King (essentially the Cabinet base) were somehow of the belief somehow that they had a crack at the top job now.
When the day came however for a leadership race - they ran away - hid under Danny's coattails once again and allowed an "interim" Premier who did not want the job (supposedly) to actually win - uncontested. The beginning of the end.
As all political weaklings do - as party fortunes were changing - they pointed a finger at somebody else - not them - no not them. A bunch of children standing in front of a broken window.
Eventually their finger pointing and whispers caught on with an uninspired media and we were advised that Kathy Dunderdale had problems communicating the "really good" things they were doing.
As with gutless bullies in packs - they worked on Dunderdale until she left. There they sighed - all must be good now right?
Onward to a leadership election - while nice man Tom kept the Williams adoration embers burning. Minus their political guru Danny - the guys and gals did not know which way was up - they did not know which way to go. We had speculation on a dozen or so within the PC caucus who were thinking about it. One by one they dropped off - as the collective wisdom determined they needed a fresh face - somebody from outside. So Wayne Bennett and Bill Barry stepped forward while Danny's Cabinet flourished being followers. Barry came out bold - aggressive - unpolished while Bennett annoyed the Party brass.
As might be expected when the weak did not know what to do - Danny stepped in and proclaimed Barry unfit for leadership and indirectly pushed for a fellow named Frank Coleman. As with all good sheep the caucus followed and proceeded to prepare for a Frank coronation despite the presence of a formidable opponent (Barry).
We heard excuse after excuse from former wannabe leaders within the sitting rank and file - ranging from "not my time" to "health" to "family priorities".
Meanwhile Barry was fighting a losing battle in a delegated convention wherein his commentary to the people of the province really did not matter if the Party brass was orchestrating a winner.
Many people asked why Coleman - a political neophyte - by reports private family and business man would throw himself under the bright lights of politics. This was quickly followed by awkward appearances of a man who appeared quite friendly but out of his comfort zone.
Barry following the condemnation by the great one and in true gritty business style - weighed his odds and determined the risk was unfitting the unlikely reward. Barry quit leaving Coleman as an unwilling political deer in headlights. What followed was not able to be scripted. Coleman became Premier in waiting - even starting to put together staff for his 8th floor domain. Then like an unpredicted failure of a detonation test - HVP - came to the fore. I think it's fair to say the Coleman will be remembered in Newfoundland and Labrador for performance bonds related to a paving contract not for almost becoming Premier. As quick as you could say "cheese" for a photograph - we had the sad picture of Coleman's back as he walked away from his indescribably short political stint.
Now what? Well the wannabes who all had excuses they wanted us to believe just a month or two before - shed those reasons and came flying back to the leadership race. Once again we had the speculation of who was running - who was supporting - who had a chance. In the end - and after another stint with the nice man - there was Ottenheimer, Davis, and Kent. The once held idea of a new fresh face was replaced with the need for experience. Ironically the same weaklings who just a month before were willing to accept a fellow who had never sought political office before were now questioning the option of Ottenheimer because he did not have a seat in the legislature.
When Steve Kent started his political climb - I remember a young man tenting on the corner of streets with a sign - asking the people of Mount Pearl to support him for Council. It must have been a real power rush - some years later - to find himself a political traffic cop on the corner directing leadership. Here he was - a new man - at the heart of political power in the province - a kingmaker. Kent relished it - played it up - played coy - loved the attention and could not believe he was actually in a position to broker his own political pinnacle.
Ottenheimer claimed the fix was in - Davis and Kent denied it and then in a joyous coming-out paraded it on the convention floor. Shortly thereafter he became Deputy Premier. Did this new power go to his head? Unfortunately yes - culminating in Tweets last night after his party's loss of two more by-elections. Here they are:
1. What's next? You're going to see bold, progressive leadership from
2. There was no honeymoon period for our new Premier. That's life. A lot can change over the next year. Things change fast in politics.
3. Our Party still has a clear majority. We still plan to bring in a Throne Speech and a Budget. We will govern. We will lead.
4. The transformation in NL over the last decade has been nothing short of extraordinary. We're still the best party to govern.
Unfortunately his words represent what IS wrong with the Tories. The real problem. He in essence has concluded the following: we don't care what the people think - we are right, we don't care what the people say we will lead anyway, we own the province and we are going to do what we want - what we think is best, and in spite of the people we are in power and plan to keep it that way.
Unfortunately the tweets also have a ring of desperation in them. That is because Kent believes that politics is a career rather than a period of public service. Career politicians are not helpful - not insightful - not life experienced - and not leaders. They expect a leader to perform for them - to ensure the longevity of the benefits both financial and social that politics and the people have provided.
Kent personifies the Tory problem - imagine if he is the only Tory seat left after the next general election. He does not like the prospect and it shows.
I believe the real strings of the Tory machine are well above Kent's power level. While he might be seen as a pliable one of those strings the puppeteers simply want to keep power for other more tangible business reasons. That's a sphere than Kent will never be allowed to enter - but he can certainly man the coat-check for those entering the real corridors of power.
Thursday, October 02, 2014
Judy Manning and HVP Inquiry
Her experience in the Court of Appeal can be found here.
Albeit - Pennecon - her client - did not win the day and Metal World - not her client - was awarded party and party costs - the case had some connection to a Mechanics Lien and the construction industry.
So how about Ms. Manning quit as Attorney General and instead head-up the Judicial/Public Inquiry on the HVP affair.
In this way - we the public - get to see her act within her profession - and determine if partisanship can be overlooked for such a proceeding.
Now I know she does not have the legal experience of Clyde Wells - we can still test her metal as she reviews the mess which is the HVP fiasco.
Let's see if she's comfortable questioning the "unelected" Premier or the "unelected" Premier in waiting who quit or the "interim" "unelected" Premier or the once "unelected" then "elected" Premier and current Cabinet colleagues such as Kevin O'Brien.
After the Inquiry is finished - we may be up to a general election. Let's see if she still wants to run for the PC's then.
This would be a big feather in her CV - and also allows us - the electorate - to see her in action. We would like to see "vintage" Manning and see if we like the bouquet. As it sits now - the bouquet - resembles that of rotting herring.
Although Inquiries are headed up by a Commissioner - usually a judge - Cabinet posts are usually filled by elected people - so we can make an exception.
Albeit - Pennecon - her client - did not win the day and Metal World - not her client - was awarded party and party costs - the case had some connection to a Mechanics Lien and the construction industry.
So how about Ms. Manning quit as Attorney General and instead head-up the Judicial/Public Inquiry on the HVP affair.
In this way - we the public - get to see her act within her profession - and determine if partisanship can be overlooked for such a proceeding.
Now I know she does not have the legal experience of Clyde Wells - we can still test her metal as she reviews the mess which is the HVP fiasco.
Let's see if she's comfortable questioning the "unelected" Premier or the "unelected" Premier in waiting who quit or the "interim" "unelected" Premier or the once "unelected" then "elected" Premier and current Cabinet colleagues such as Kevin O'Brien.
After the Inquiry is finished - we may be up to a general election. Let's see if she still wants to run for the PC's then.
This would be a big feather in her CV - and also allows us - the electorate - to see her in action. We would like to see "vintage" Manning and see if we like the bouquet. As it sits now - the bouquet - resembles that of rotting herring.
Although Inquiries are headed up by a Commissioner - usually a judge - Cabinet posts are usually filled by elected people - so we can make an exception.
Thursday, September 18, 2014
Muskrat avoided Stats Can?
Muskrat Muskrat and the people who will be left to pay for it.
Yesterday's National Post - read full story HERE
Of interest: "The shrinking East Most projection scenarios show Newfoundland and Labrador, Nova Scotia and New Brunswick all losing population over the next 25 years. This is because of their relatively older age structure, their small share of Canadian immigration and their tendency to lose people to other provinces. Newfoundland is projected to be the hardest hit, dropping to 455,600 under the medium-growth scenario from 526,700 in 2013. "
What will the debt loads be for that 455,000 people in 25 years? How many of our children today will stay - considering the debt burden placed on them? Will the population numbers then be worse?
We need a change now. We need to do some serious reflection - particularly on the Muskrat fiasco.
Yesterday's National Post - read full story HERE
Of interest: "The shrinking East Most projection scenarios show Newfoundland and Labrador, Nova Scotia and New Brunswick all losing population over the next 25 years. This is because of their relatively older age structure, their small share of Canadian immigration and their tendency to lose people to other provinces. Newfoundland is projected to be the hardest hit, dropping to 455,600 under the medium-growth scenario from 526,700 in 2013. "
What will the debt loads be for that 455,000 people in 25 years? How many of our children today will stay - considering the debt burden placed on them? Will the population numbers then be worse?
We need a change now. We need to do some serious reflection - particularly on the Muskrat fiasco.
What did the PC's Promise?
Please read below the promise from the PC Blue Book 2003
"The party in power always has an advantage in political fund raising, but it has an unfair advantage over other parties by being able to determine when elections are called, and by spending unlimited amounts of public money to buy pre-election advertising that does nothing but polish its political image."
So
"A Progressive Conservative Government will propose amendments... that will: Require that provincial elections are held on a fixed date every four years, or immediately if a government loses a confidence vote in the House of Assembly, or within twelve months if the Premier resigns during the first three years of a four year term."(emphasis added)
There is no doubt that the election should be called by January and held in February of 2015. The fact that PC's are now behind in the poll is not the point. The fact that they have a new leader is not the point. The fact that they want more time to re-prove themselves is not the point.
Are the PC's now saying that the new laws are for anybody but a PC government?
If this is the new Premier's first act - that is to delay a general election because it's not opportune for his party - then he will have demonstrated their collective democratic worth. Zero!
"The party in power always has an advantage in political fund raising, but it has an unfair advantage over other parties by being able to determine when elections are called, and by spending unlimited amounts of public money to buy pre-election advertising that does nothing but polish its political image."
So
"A Progressive Conservative Government will propose amendments... that will: Require that provincial elections are held on a fixed date every four years, or immediately if a government loses a confidence vote in the House of Assembly, or within twelve months if the Premier resigns during the first three years of a four year term."(emphasis added)
There is no doubt that the election should be called by January and held in February of 2015. The fact that PC's are now behind in the poll is not the point. The fact that they have a new leader is not the point. The fact that they want more time to re-prove themselves is not the point.
Are the PC's now saying that the new laws are for anybody but a PC government?
If this is the new Premier's first act - that is to delay a general election because it's not opportune for his party - then he will have demonstrated their collective democratic worth. Zero!
Thursday, September 04, 2014
Perversion of Democracy! Media complicit?
With the latest news regarding the futures of Charlene Johnson - Minister of Finance and Terry French - Minister of Justice - the electorate must demand the call of an election.
Where to start - that's the problem here. The ignorance of or deliberate avoidance of the intent of the House of Assembly Act - passed by the Tories. A very significant part of this law deals with the early departure of a Premier.
When one reads the House of Assembly debate regarding this law - one can only conclude that the latest an election call would be is February/March of 2015. The intent was clear. If the governing party - responsible for the introduction, tabling, then supporting the passage of the law were planning to abuse the Act - why make the change? Why indeed. The Act does not provide for the bungling of or deliberate manipulation of the provisions of 3.1 and it certainly does not say anything about bad polls.
Kathy Dunderdale resigned in January of this year - and the party should have immediately called nominations for leader and settled in on a 2 month process to (s)elect a new leader. Instead they have been prolonging the process in a manner that achieves a full unentitled term.
The media has been irresponsible in their ignorance or avoidance of this situation - and as a result this so-called pillar of democracy has been absent. It is their job - their profession - to report, review, research, and present these real issues to the public.
Adding to the perversion of our "democracy" is the continued spending of taxpayer dollars by a caretaker Premier/s. Tom Marshall - is spending like the leader of a newly elected and wildly popular governing party. None of this is real. His view on power and democracy is nothing short of arrogant. He is spending and committing billions of dollars for generations of Newfoundlanders and Labradorians. In my opinion - I think it's safe to say that the Tories under Marshall/Dunderdale/Williams will continue to govern for at least the next decade whether re-elected or not.
The spending on pensions, pay and benefits packages, infrastructure, education, health, and resource developments are commitments that will go on in some cases for years and in others for decades - long after their government is gone.
It can be argued that all governments must make some multi-year commitments - usually however it is under a legitimate term and legitimate leadership. This has been over since the New Year.
They will double our debt obligations in a province where they have not grown population and private sector industry. They will double our debt obligations in a province that is aging faster than any other.
Ironically as another 2 Ministers remove themselves from office - the biggest headline is Danny is going to give us an extra year of the Ice-Caps. Yay...
Note to "Journalists" - Get off your arses and provide the public with real information instead of the leaning drivel of another fellow in a bow-tie who appears thankful that the Tories will provide him with a delegated convention - so as to ward off the boredom of an open leadership process.
Where to start - that's the problem here. The ignorance of or deliberate avoidance of the intent of the House of Assembly Act - passed by the Tories. A very significant part of this law deals with the early departure of a Premier.
When one reads the House of Assembly debate regarding this law - one can only conclude that the latest an election call would be is February/March of 2015. The intent was clear. If the governing party - responsible for the introduction, tabling, then supporting the passage of the law were planning to abuse the Act - why make the change? Why indeed. The Act does not provide for the bungling of or deliberate manipulation of the provisions of 3.1 and it certainly does not say anything about bad polls.
Kathy Dunderdale resigned in January of this year - and the party should have immediately called nominations for leader and settled in on a 2 month process to (s)elect a new leader. Instead they have been prolonging the process in a manner that achieves a full unentitled term.
The media has been irresponsible in their ignorance or avoidance of this situation - and as a result this so-called pillar of democracy has been absent. It is their job - their profession - to report, review, research, and present these real issues to the public.
Adding to the perversion of our "democracy" is the continued spending of taxpayer dollars by a caretaker Premier/s. Tom Marshall - is spending like the leader of a newly elected and wildly popular governing party. None of this is real. His view on power and democracy is nothing short of arrogant. He is spending and committing billions of dollars for generations of Newfoundlanders and Labradorians. In my opinion - I think it's safe to say that the Tories under Marshall/Dunderdale/Williams will continue to govern for at least the next decade whether re-elected or not.
The spending on pensions, pay and benefits packages, infrastructure, education, health, and resource developments are commitments that will go on in some cases for years and in others for decades - long after their government is gone.
It can be argued that all governments must make some multi-year commitments - usually however it is under a legitimate term and legitimate leadership. This has been over since the New Year.
They will double our debt obligations in a province where they have not grown population and private sector industry. They will double our debt obligations in a province that is aging faster than any other.
Ironically as another 2 Ministers remove themselves from office - the biggest headline is Danny is going to give us an extra year of the Ice-Caps. Yay...
Note to "Journalists" - Get off your arses and provide the public with real information instead of the leaning drivel of another fellow in a bow-tie who appears thankful that the Tories will provide him with a delegated convention - so as to ward off the boredom of an open leadership process.
Wednesday, August 27, 2014
Wanted: Captain Obvious
I waited with interest to see what the headlines would be this morning on the definitive defeat of the PC's in St. George's - Stephenville East.
I was not surprised - which means I was disappointed in our media.
Last night the governing Tories were crushed with a wave of discontent - in the middle of their "exciting" leadership debacle. Last night the polls continued to send a strong message to the government that their time is done. Get out - we no longer support your policies or direction - the electorate seem to be saying.
The numbers in this by-election certainly put an exclamation mark on the feelings of dissatisfaction the people of Newfoundland and Labrador have with this government.
The numbers are as follows:
2011 General Election - Results St. George's - Stephenville East
Eligible Voters: 7959
Votes Cast: 4287
Voter turnout 53.9 %
PC's 49.3%
Liberal 32.7%
NDP 16.5%
Kevin Aylward was the candidate and the Leader of the Liberal Party at the time. A experienced politician - from the district - who actually did a decent job in helping to keep the Liberals in an Opposition position.
2014 By-election - Results St. George's - Stephenville East
Eligible Voters: 7274 (a significant reduction in voting population in three years)
Votes Cast: 3738
Voter turnout 51.4
PC's 25.4%
Liberal 59.1%
NDP 15.5%
A by-election in the last week of summer vacation almost matched the turnout of a fall general election - that's pretty remarkable. It is also remarkable that a Minister's seat was so soundly defeated.
The candidates were solid people in what appears to have been a clean race.
What does this mean for the three Premier wannabes?
1. It was not all Kathy's fault,
2. They are as to blame for the by-election defeat as Kathy and Tom would be,
3. As all are former Ministers of this failing government and have been directly involved in policy choices - that clearly the people do not approve of,
4. The leadership candidates are not making a difference in the mood of the electorate,
5. They should stop spending taxpayer dollars on deals or agreements and call an election.
They have clearly lost the support of the people as the by-elections in Virgina Waters, Carbonear-Harbour Grace and now St. George's - Stephenville East have demonstrated. In their arrogance they continue to spend billions on a project the people DO NOT want, continue to commit billions in multi-year schemes and plans, and continue to govern like they have the overwhelming support of the people.
Their desperation to hang on to every little benefit their elected office provides - and their desperation to get all the contracts nailed down on energy resources reflects a feeling of political entitlement that has nothing to do with the electorate. They are finished.
Whether the election is being delayed for reasons of gross incompetance or mass manipulation of their leadership circus - the people are being ignored. The much touted House of Assembly Act passed by the Tories that included a provision should a leader leave before the end of the third year in office is being blatently ignored. The media is ignoring this.
The headlines in the media this morning do not reflect the gravity of this situation. The headlines were as if the Liberals were a popular government and they won another by-election. The headlines should have been screaming as loud as the people. "It is time to call an election".
Perhaps our media outlets would be best served if they hired "Captain Obvious" as lead journalist.
I was not surprised - which means I was disappointed in our media.
Last night the governing Tories were crushed with a wave of discontent - in the middle of their "exciting" leadership debacle. Last night the polls continued to send a strong message to the government that their time is done. Get out - we no longer support your policies or direction - the electorate seem to be saying.
The numbers in this by-election certainly put an exclamation mark on the feelings of dissatisfaction the people of Newfoundland and Labrador have with this government.
The numbers are as follows:
2011 General Election - Results St. George's - Stephenville East
Eligible Voters: 7959
Votes Cast: 4287
Voter turnout 53.9 %
PC's 49.3%
Liberal 32.7%
NDP 16.5%
Kevin Aylward was the candidate and the Leader of the Liberal Party at the time. A experienced politician - from the district - who actually did a decent job in helping to keep the Liberals in an Opposition position.
2014 By-election - Results St. George's - Stephenville East
Eligible Voters: 7274 (a significant reduction in voting population in three years)
Votes Cast: 3738
Voter turnout 51.4
PC's 25.4%
Liberal 59.1%
NDP 15.5%
A by-election in the last week of summer vacation almost matched the turnout of a fall general election - that's pretty remarkable. It is also remarkable that a Minister's seat was so soundly defeated.
The candidates were solid people in what appears to have been a clean race.
What does this mean for the three Premier wannabes?
1. It was not all Kathy's fault,
2. They are as to blame for the by-election defeat as Kathy and Tom would be,
3. As all are former Ministers of this failing government and have been directly involved in policy choices - that clearly the people do not approve of,
4. The leadership candidates are not making a difference in the mood of the electorate,
5. They should stop spending taxpayer dollars on deals or agreements and call an election.
They have clearly lost the support of the people as the by-elections in Virgina Waters, Carbonear-Harbour Grace and now St. George's - Stephenville East have demonstrated. In their arrogance they continue to spend billions on a project the people DO NOT want, continue to commit billions in multi-year schemes and plans, and continue to govern like they have the overwhelming support of the people.
Their desperation to hang on to every little benefit their elected office provides - and their desperation to get all the contracts nailed down on energy resources reflects a feeling of political entitlement that has nothing to do with the electorate. They are finished.
Whether the election is being delayed for reasons of gross incompetance or mass manipulation of their leadership circus - the people are being ignored. The much touted House of Assembly Act passed by the Tories that included a provision should a leader leave before the end of the third year in office is being blatently ignored. The media is ignoring this.
The headlines in the media this morning do not reflect the gravity of this situation. The headlines were as if the Liberals were a popular government and they won another by-election. The headlines should have been screaming as loud as the people. "It is time to call an election".
Perhaps our media outlets would be best served if they hired "Captain Obvious" as lead journalist.
Monday, June 30, 2014
Incompetence of Premier, Govt., Martin and Nalcor Executive
In
1971, _________ created __________ which is a subsidiary of ___________.
With over 30 years' experience in large-scale projects, ____________ offers a
complete range
of services in generation and transmission plant engineering, project
management and construction.
Over the years, _______ has also developed particular expertise
in remote areas and multicultural environments, as evidenced by its role as prime contractor for one of the largest
hydroelectric developments in the world— ___________ of northern ____________—which supplies over
50% of the electricity generated by ___________. This was further demonstrated in the _______________, where ___________ personnel constructed a 220-kV transmission line at altitudes of 4,000 metres or more. Every project
presents major challenges, and ____________ has the qualified people to meet them.
Part of the considerable know-how __________ has accumulated over
the years rests on the solid relationships it has forged with the people affected by its projects. Developing business
partnerships and working in close cooperation with the ________, __________, and ________ communities, for example, as well as
working to maximize regional economic spinoffs all attest to __________ expertise in this area.
As master builders, __________ personnel are high-calibre
professionals. A multidisciplinary team oversees the completion of every phase of a project, from draft-design,
detail engineering, procurement and construction management to environmental monitoring and follow-up.
For ________ clients, the benefits are clear—30
years of experience in managing and completing large-scale construction projects in the energy industry,
on schedule and within budget.Can you fill in the blanks? Answers HERE
If the answers included Nalcor - then we might be okay. If Ed Martin was Thierry Vandal and Gilbert Bennett was Real Laporte then overruns would not be considered "normal" and "expected".
The people of Newfoundland and Labrador deserve competence to be "normal" and "expected". To make matters worse - the nit-wits responsible for mismanagement are not replaced - fired.
You see if Nalcor and the government of Newfoundland and Labrador had sought the advice of Hydro Quebec we might have expected the project to be on-time and on-budget; we might have expected that real customers would be found; we would have expected our energy rates to be stable; we would have expected major industry to consume power and create LONG-term jobs.
Danny - Kathy - and the Tories played the Hydro-Quebec fear and hate card and as a result we have a mess - and our children will have a worse mess. We had "experts" remember - the best "experts" remember?
If an 800 million overrun has become "normal" and "expected" it's time to change our attitudes and our government.
Fire the Nalcor Executive and call an election.
Ottenheimer fumbles out of gate
The PC CAMP Condescending - Arrogant - Manipulative - Peremp(tory) is desperate to cling to power.
Sue's Blog has already raised the issue of the Tory Party abusing the intent of a law - the Tory government introduced in 2004. Now ten years later and the first time this part of the law is being utilized - they are showing us how they really operate.
There is no doubt that popular Tories of 2004 - are no so hot to trot with their new law - when they are behind in the polls.
Minister Terry French said this on December 07-2004
"Mr. Speaker, I believe, like I said from the beginning, that people of this Province, certainly, have the right to elect the Premier. The party should not have the right to select a Premier for this Province. Sure, they have the right to select a leader who will carry them into an election, and, sure, the party has the right to select the person they feel who is best qualified for the job, but then it is the job of the government of the day to put that person out in front of their party and say to the people of this Province: Who do you want? Who would you prefer? This person or that person? I believe this legislation will allow for that."
Right now Mr. French and all his PC colleagues are using a loophole Sue's Blog pointed out months ago after Dunderdale resigned. They are using their leadership process to drag on the time frame in which they must call an election. It was not the intent of this law to have political parties abuse and use it for political gain - in fact it was supposed to minimize political interference.
Enter Ottenhiemer Cochrane's Failure
John Ottenheimer is now an official entrant in the PC leadership race. His debut on CBC'c On Point with David Cochrane was less than stellar and gave us some insight as to how he may use his office - if elected by the Party.
Ottenheimer is an experienced lawyer and parliamentarian - yet he chose these words:
"It's well perhaps 14 or 15 months before the next general election - which is in keeping with what the mandate allows the party anyway - in terms of when we were first elected or more recently elected in 2011."
Ottenheimer talks of a mandate as if there were no premature resignation of the Premier. He knows - he was there - he knows that a law - his party - the party he wants to lead - promoted and as majority government passed - says the original mandate no longer exists. Therefore Mr. Ottenheimer has decided to mislead instead of dealing with the subject truthfully.
For David Cochrane's part - it was a miss - he ignored the much touted and self praised initiative of the Tories - to remove pure politics from the calling of an election.
For Ottenheimer there remains many questions regarding his time as Minister of Health and this latest foray into a convenient memory does not bode well - if such is a demonstration of his leadership.
The PC's of late have been adopting Liberal policy almost as quick as they hear it - bankrupt clearly of anything progressive on the policy development side.
Next up - The Crosbie Monarchy
Sue's Blog has already raised the issue of the Tory Party abusing the intent of a law - the Tory government introduced in 2004. Now ten years later and the first time this part of the law is being utilized - they are showing us how they really operate.
There is no doubt that popular Tories of 2004 - are no so hot to trot with their new law - when they are behind in the polls.
Minister Terry French said this on December 07-2004
"Mr. Speaker, I believe, like I said from the beginning, that people of this Province, certainly, have the right to elect the Premier. The party should not have the right to select a Premier for this Province. Sure, they have the right to select a leader who will carry them into an election, and, sure, the party has the right to select the person they feel who is best qualified for the job, but then it is the job of the government of the day to put that person out in front of their party and say to the people of this Province: Who do you want? Who would you prefer? This person or that person? I believe this legislation will allow for that."
Right now Mr. French and all his PC colleagues are using a loophole Sue's Blog pointed out months ago after Dunderdale resigned. They are using their leadership process to drag on the time frame in which they must call an election. It was not the intent of this law to have political parties abuse and use it for political gain - in fact it was supposed to minimize political interference.
Enter Ottenhiemer Cochrane's Failure
John Ottenheimer is now an official entrant in the PC leadership race. His debut on CBC'c On Point with David Cochrane was less than stellar and gave us some insight as to how he may use his office - if elected by the Party.
Ottenheimer is an experienced lawyer and parliamentarian - yet he chose these words:
"It's well perhaps 14 or 15 months before the next general election - which is in keeping with what the mandate allows the party anyway - in terms of when we were first elected or more recently elected in 2011."
Ottenheimer talks of a mandate as if there were no premature resignation of the Premier. He knows - he was there - he knows that a law - his party - the party he wants to lead - promoted and as majority government passed - says the original mandate no longer exists. Therefore Mr. Ottenheimer has decided to mislead instead of dealing with the subject truthfully.
For David Cochrane's part - it was a miss - he ignored the much touted and self praised initiative of the Tories - to remove pure politics from the calling of an election.
For Ottenheimer there remains many questions regarding his time as Minister of Health and this latest foray into a convenient memory does not bode well - if such is a demonstration of his leadership.
The PC's of late have been adopting Liberal policy almost as quick as they hear it - bankrupt clearly of anything progressive on the policy development side.
Next up - The Crosbie Monarchy
Thursday, June 19, 2014
Tory Turmoil Continues - Legacy of Williams?
Here we go again. Back to square one. A new leadership process for the Tories begins as it did the last time.
Same group of people who may run.
Each day brings word of one of the list saying no.
Each day brings another Kent musing.
Media covering the same nonsense once again with almost the same panting breath.
The best we have so far is John Ottenheimer has announced he is running. Whoopee!
Is he how we describe renewal? Is he how we get new ideas? Is he the definition of fresh?
Nice fellow - John - despite his agreeing to do many things we have problems with. Is this the result of the Danny Williams leadership legacy?
Surround yourself with weak followers - surround yourself with obedient "colleagues" and voila you get leadership potential deficit.
A real leader surrounds him/herself with strong people - those with ambition and drive - those who strive to learn - listen - and lead.
One would figure there would be clamouring to get the top job after Williams left. He appointed Kathy Dunderdale to be an "interim" leader - while all other potential "new" leaders came to the for. Who did we get? We got lots of mumblings, whispers, and speculation. We had Brad Cabana try to run - but was determined "ineligible". So after all the fumbling, bumbling, and mumbling - Kathy was appointed.
Then Kathy the "interim" left - we should have expected the door to the candidacy locker to be kicked down - charged - and jammed with leadership hopefuls.
I woke-up one day and the media had a dozen or so waiting to come forward. Inside caucus - outside caucus - a retired army general, retired politicians, defeated politicians, a lobbyist, a retired fellow from the west coast, a fish merchant, and a grocer.
Day by day - the media plucked one off the list. We were down to three. Coleman, Bennett, and Barry. Danny did not like Barry and declared who he would not support. Delegate meetings were taking place before the actual campaign started. Bennett was thrown out of the race - Barry was procedurally crippled by the process and all we had left was one. No race again.
So the Premiership was Coleman's - the party had a leader and an election should have been called. Marshall stood in the House of Assembly and basically said his good-byes as he prepared to move over and let Frank take the helm. Sure before the handover occurred the Premiers Office staff went through a gutting putting Coleman's people in before he himself arrived.
Joan Shea quit so there was one seat open. Nope - Frank was not taking that one - so it became obvious that Tom Marshall was leaving his seat and Coleman could run at home.
Before a by-election could be called in St. George's - Stephenville East - the Premier appointed was gone - as quick as he came - with all his staff at the ready in the office he would never take over.
One clear sign of a good leader is that he/she has a reasonable succession plan. Draw your own conclusions.
Regardless, call an election now - your party mess is not our mess and is not the mess of government.
Same group of people who may run.
Each day brings word of one of the list saying no.
Each day brings another Kent musing.
Media covering the same nonsense once again with almost the same panting breath.
The best we have so far is John Ottenheimer has announced he is running. Whoopee!
Is he how we describe renewal? Is he how we get new ideas? Is he the definition of fresh?
Nice fellow - John - despite his agreeing to do many things we have problems with. Is this the result of the Danny Williams leadership legacy?
Surround yourself with weak followers - surround yourself with obedient "colleagues" and voila you get leadership potential deficit.
A real leader surrounds him/herself with strong people - those with ambition and drive - those who strive to learn - listen - and lead.
One would figure there would be clamouring to get the top job after Williams left. He appointed Kathy Dunderdale to be an "interim" leader - while all other potential "new" leaders came to the for. Who did we get? We got lots of mumblings, whispers, and speculation. We had Brad Cabana try to run - but was determined "ineligible". So after all the fumbling, bumbling, and mumbling - Kathy was appointed.
Then Kathy the "interim" left - we should have expected the door to the candidacy locker to be kicked down - charged - and jammed with leadership hopefuls.
I woke-up one day and the media had a dozen or so waiting to come forward. Inside caucus - outside caucus - a retired army general, retired politicians, defeated politicians, a lobbyist, a retired fellow from the west coast, a fish merchant, and a grocer.
Day by day - the media plucked one off the list. We were down to three. Coleman, Bennett, and Barry. Danny did not like Barry and declared who he would not support. Delegate meetings were taking place before the actual campaign started. Bennett was thrown out of the race - Barry was procedurally crippled by the process and all we had left was one. No race again.
So the Premiership was Coleman's - the party had a leader and an election should have been called. Marshall stood in the House of Assembly and basically said his good-byes as he prepared to move over and let Frank take the helm. Sure before the handover occurred the Premiers Office staff went through a gutting putting Coleman's people in before he himself arrived.
Joan Shea quit so there was one seat open. Nope - Frank was not taking that one - so it became obvious that Tom Marshall was leaving his seat and Coleman could run at home.
Before a by-election could be called in St. George's - Stephenville East - the Premier appointed was gone - as quick as he came - with all his staff at the ready in the office he would never take over.
One clear sign of a good leader is that he/she has a reasonable succession plan. Draw your own conclusions.
Regardless, call an election now - your party mess is not our mess and is not the mess of government.
Tuesday, June 17, 2014
10 years of Felix and Oil $$
We are a have province - they say!
We have a booming economy - they say!
This is Tory management of billions of oil dollars - this is Tory management of non-renewable revenues for future generations!
This is 10 years of Felix Collins and the Tories:
So what do you watch? The potholes or moose? This is what Felix Collins has accomplished with billions of oil dollars?
Time to move on - let's see if we can salvage some sort of infrastructure investment from the remaining oil revenues.
This is the road to Tourism - Mistaken Point - the beautiful whales at St. Vincent's - the ecological treasure of Holyrood Pond and the dozens of communities that are historical treasures.
We have a booming economy - they say!
This is Tory management of billions of oil dollars - this is Tory management of non-renewable revenues for future generations!
This is 10 years of Felix Collins and the Tories:
So what do you watch? The potholes or moose? This is what Felix Collins has accomplished with billions of oil dollars?
Time to move on - let's see if we can salvage some sort of infrastructure investment from the remaining oil revenues.
This is the road to Tourism - Mistaken Point - the beautiful whales at St. Vincent's - the ecological treasure of Holyrood Pond and the dozens of communities that are historical treasures.
Friday, May 02, 2014
Firing the NL Tories for their own good
Back at it. I've been away from the blog for a while and much has happened since I last posted. While I was not blogging - I was following all the news and happenings both in Newfoundland and Labrador and Canada.
While I must dedicate many posts to particulars - one theme has been prevalent throughout the couple of months. Our democracy is eroding and only we can prevent it from crumbling entirely.
The Conservatives in Ottawa and the Progressive Conservatives here at home appear to be ruling at their own will and ignoring the people who really control their destiny - us.
Our system of democracy places great power in both the Prime Minister's Office and the Premier's Office - and when the governing party has a majority - that precious power - one which they should be humbled by - seems to make them arrogant and dictatorial.
Both Bill 29 here and Bill C-23 in Ottawa demonstrate that arrogance.
Currently we have a Premier in waiting - Frank Coleman who will be handed the position of Party leader and Premier by acclamation in July. The provincial Tories have not had a leadership contested in 20 years. It's been a placing of the hands - however few - and a passing of keys to the office. The only say we as the electorate have is during a general election or some of the electorate in a by-election. Clearly this is a party not too concerned about people getting a choice of leadership candidates. The delegated convention just showed its hand or slight of it - clearly this process is antiquated and open for significant manipulation.
There is a real media story here and certainly our local journalists should show more interest. This would be in the public interest and serve as a great reminder that the people are not prepared to be fed what the self-proclaimed masters have chosen for them.
How many Cabinet and Caucus members ever met Frank Coleman prior to indicating their support for him? Were delegates chosen prior to any debate process for the candidates? Why did Frank Coleman become involved in the leadership process? What evidence is there that Frank Coleman ever held any interest in public office? We went from Lynn Verge to Loyola Sullivan to Ed Byrne to Danny Williams to Kathy Dunderdale to Tom Marshall and now Frank Coleman without once ever having a choice at a party ballot. This is very convincing evidence that people are being chosen by a few without any real consideration of party members.
Surely the PC's must be sent a political message - get your act together on leadership - open up the process so that any Newfoundlander and Labradorian who wants to vote can - and encourage not discourage a robust campaign with many candidates and plenty of open debate.
Remember also the last Tory leadership that was actually contested in 1995 still only had 2 contestants Lynn Verge and Loyola Sullivan. Prior to that it was 1989 when the leadership contest enjoyed 5 candidates - the eventual winner Tom Rideout. After he was beaten in the general election by Clyde Wells - Len Simms was appointed leader.
The PC's in this province and their backroom have not trusted their membership to choose the "right" candidate for two decades. The chameleon support or "big money" have their hands in all parties. The last leadership of the Liberals seen the people - not a chosen few - elect a leader. This of course is also encouraging as it can be said - that Dwight owes his position to the people not a chosen few. When one is prepared as interim leader to open the field wide and welcome 4 others to the race - one is willing to stand on ones own merit. It also demonstrates that debate and other points of view are welcome.
What we have been left with is a bunch of sitting Tories Cabinet and Caucus who sat on the bleachers choosing not leadership but cheer leading and the uncontested Frank Coleman who says he thinks they all did a fine job. Surely the Tories must do better or we might be faced with a Mulroney/Campbell scenario - where the NL PC's are replaced with a Conservative alternative. I'm sure there's a Peter MacKay like sitting on the Newfoundland and Labrador Tory bench waiting to sure up their importance. Or perhaps the Tories will hang on to a couple of seats in the next election - just enough to really start a renewal and hopefully precipitate a real leadership contest. How many of you think Frank Coleman is staying for a gig in Opposition?
While I must dedicate many posts to particulars - one theme has been prevalent throughout the couple of months. Our democracy is eroding and only we can prevent it from crumbling entirely.
The Conservatives in Ottawa and the Progressive Conservatives here at home appear to be ruling at their own will and ignoring the people who really control their destiny - us.
Our system of democracy places great power in both the Prime Minister's Office and the Premier's Office - and when the governing party has a majority - that precious power - one which they should be humbled by - seems to make them arrogant and dictatorial.
Both Bill 29 here and Bill C-23 in Ottawa demonstrate that arrogance.
Currently we have a Premier in waiting - Frank Coleman who will be handed the position of Party leader and Premier by acclamation in July. The provincial Tories have not had a leadership contested in 20 years. It's been a placing of the hands - however few - and a passing of keys to the office. The only say we as the electorate have is during a general election or some of the electorate in a by-election. Clearly this is a party not too concerned about people getting a choice of leadership candidates. The delegated convention just showed its hand or slight of it - clearly this process is antiquated and open for significant manipulation.
There is a real media story here and certainly our local journalists should show more interest. This would be in the public interest and serve as a great reminder that the people are not prepared to be fed what the self-proclaimed masters have chosen for them.
How many Cabinet and Caucus members ever met Frank Coleman prior to indicating their support for him? Were delegates chosen prior to any debate process for the candidates? Why did Frank Coleman become involved in the leadership process? What evidence is there that Frank Coleman ever held any interest in public office? We went from Lynn Verge to Loyola Sullivan to Ed Byrne to Danny Williams to Kathy Dunderdale to Tom Marshall and now Frank Coleman without once ever having a choice at a party ballot. This is very convincing evidence that people are being chosen by a few without any real consideration of party members.
Surely the PC's must be sent a political message - get your act together on leadership - open up the process so that any Newfoundlander and Labradorian who wants to vote can - and encourage not discourage a robust campaign with many candidates and plenty of open debate.
Remember also the last Tory leadership that was actually contested in 1995 still only had 2 contestants Lynn Verge and Loyola Sullivan. Prior to that it was 1989 when the leadership contest enjoyed 5 candidates - the eventual winner Tom Rideout. After he was beaten in the general election by Clyde Wells - Len Simms was appointed leader.
The PC's in this province and their backroom have not trusted their membership to choose the "right" candidate for two decades. The chameleon support or "big money" have their hands in all parties. The last leadership of the Liberals seen the people - not a chosen few - elect a leader. This of course is also encouraging as it can be said - that Dwight owes his position to the people not a chosen few. When one is prepared as interim leader to open the field wide and welcome 4 others to the race - one is willing to stand on ones own merit. It also demonstrates that debate and other points of view are welcome.
What we have been left with is a bunch of sitting Tories Cabinet and Caucus who sat on the bleachers choosing not leadership but cheer leading and the uncontested Frank Coleman who says he thinks they all did a fine job. Surely the Tories must do better or we might be faced with a Mulroney/Campbell scenario - where the NL PC's are replaced with a Conservative alternative. I'm sure there's a Peter MacKay like sitting on the Newfoundland and Labrador Tory bench waiting to sure up their importance. Or perhaps the Tories will hang on to a couple of seats in the next election - just enough to really start a renewal and hopefully precipitate a real leadership contest. How many of you think Frank Coleman is staying for a gig in Opposition?
Wednesday, March 05, 2014
MandaTORY Muskrat Material
What a difference it makes if you are a PC Opposition in Manitoba or a PC Government in Newfoundland and Labrador.
On the heels of the Quebec review of hydro project potentials - Manitoba Conservatives are asking the government there to put the brakes on hydro projects in that province.
But oh no - wait - that's Manitoba Hydro - didn't they do a review for us?
A quote from a story in the Winnipeg Sun
Progressive Conservative leader Brian Pallister said a recommendation made to Hydro-Quebec last week highlights a bleak economic outlook for such investments. A Quebec commission called on government to postpone or cancel a $6.5-billion, four-dam Romaine River hydroelectric project. The commission claimed a boom in cheap natural gas means the energy created by the project would sell for less than it costs to produce.
“This Quebec report should be a clear cause for reconsideration,” Pallister said.
Pallister labeled Manitoba Hydro’s expansion plans “a mega gamble” that would triple the Crown corporation’s debt. (emphasis added)
And yes it gets worse - the Manitoba government in its response to Opposition concerns said:
Stan Struthers, the minister responsible for Manitoba Hydro, was not available for comment Tuesday.
In a statement on his behalf, a spokesman said Manitoba continues to profit off export sales and secured more than $9 billion in such contracts since 2010.
“This means that from the first day (of the proposed $6.2-billion) Keeyask (generating station) goes into operation, U.S. customers will be paying down the debt on an asset that will generate clean electricity for a century — keeping rates low for Manitoba families and businesses,” (emphasis added) the statement said.
So the Manitoba Conservatives see the issue and the only comeback from the government is - who cares - because Americans will pay the bill and our customers will get cheap power.
So let's see now, we have weak markets, we are paying the bill, and out power rates will soar.
The Muskrat Falls development must be stopped. We cannot keep exposing our children and grandchildren to this disastrous legacy.
Take the time and read the story HERE - become engaged in this most important issue and let the leaders know how you fell.
But one last thing - the story says this: (please read carefully) Manitoba’s Public Utilities Board has hired eight independent firms to review the value of Hydro’s plans and ensure they’re economically viable.
Our project is the most studied in the world - right? Oh and yes - it's not Manitoba Hydro calling the shots it's their Public Utilities Board.
On the heels of the Quebec review of hydro project potentials - Manitoba Conservatives are asking the government there to put the brakes on hydro projects in that province.
But oh no - wait - that's Manitoba Hydro - didn't they do a review for us?
A quote from a story in the Winnipeg Sun
Progressive Conservative leader Brian Pallister said a recommendation made to Hydro-Quebec last week highlights a bleak economic outlook for such investments. A Quebec commission called on government to postpone or cancel a $6.5-billion, four-dam Romaine River hydroelectric project. The commission claimed a boom in cheap natural gas means the energy created by the project would sell for less than it costs to produce.
“This Quebec report should be a clear cause for reconsideration,” Pallister said.
Pallister labeled Manitoba Hydro’s expansion plans “a mega gamble” that would triple the Crown corporation’s debt. (emphasis added)
And yes it gets worse - the Manitoba government in its response to Opposition concerns said:
Stan Struthers, the minister responsible for Manitoba Hydro, was not available for comment Tuesday.
In a statement on his behalf, a spokesman said Manitoba continues to profit off export sales and secured more than $9 billion in such contracts since 2010.
“This means that from the first day (of the proposed $6.2-billion) Keeyask (generating station) goes into operation, U.S. customers will be paying down the debt on an asset that will generate clean electricity for a century — keeping rates low for Manitoba families and businesses,” (emphasis added) the statement said.
So the Manitoba Conservatives see the issue and the only comeback from the government is - who cares - because Americans will pay the bill and our customers will get cheap power.
So let's see now, we have weak markets, we are paying the bill, and out power rates will soar.
The Muskrat Falls development must be stopped. We cannot keep exposing our children and grandchildren to this disastrous legacy.
Take the time and read the story HERE - become engaged in this most important issue and let the leaders know how you fell.
But one last thing - the story says this: (please read carefully) Manitoba’s Public Utilities Board has hired eight independent firms to review the value of Hydro’s plans and ensure they’re economically viable.
Our project is the most studied in the world - right? Oh and yes - it's not Manitoba Hydro calling the shots it's their Public Utilities Board.
Tuesday, February 18, 2014
Premier Coleman? I think not!
We have many "successful" people in our province. Most are not in business - however there are some in our business community who have a well-rounded "success" portfolio.
Frank Coleman appears to have achieved financial, family, and social success - if one were to read articles about him or if one knew him personally.
For me - that's not the question. The question is what would the person do if he/she became Premier.
As a board member of Emera Newfoundland and Labrador Holdings Inc. - I trust Mr. Francis Colemen is well aware of and compliant with the fiduciary duties he has.
Emera NL has a mission: our team is helping channel the energy potential of Newfoundland & Labrador, to provide clean, renewable and reliable electricity for Nova Scotia and beyond.
There is nothing in the statement above that makes me believe the bests interests of our province is the objective. If Mr. Coleman wants to channel our most lucrative resource outside Labrador - he should run for the Premiership of Nova Scotia or beyond.
In my opinion his candidacy would be nothing more than a continuation of an agenda that is not the best for Newfoundland and Labrador - rather a agenda to make the wealthy wealthier.
Frank Coleman appears to have achieved financial, family, and social success - if one were to read articles about him or if one knew him personally.
For me - that's not the question. The question is what would the person do if he/she became Premier.
As a board member of Emera Newfoundland and Labrador Holdings Inc. - I trust Mr. Francis Colemen is well aware of and compliant with the fiduciary duties he has.
Emera NL has a mission: our team is helping channel the energy potential of Newfoundland & Labrador, to provide clean, renewable and reliable electricity for Nova Scotia and beyond.
There is nothing in the statement above that makes me believe the bests interests of our province is the objective. If Mr. Coleman wants to channel our most lucrative resource outside Labrador - he should run for the Premiership of Nova Scotia or beyond.
In my opinion his candidacy would be nothing more than a continuation of an agenda that is not the best for Newfoundland and Labrador - rather a agenda to make the wealthy wealthier.
Tuesday, February 11, 2014
Williams - Barry... Same ting
Bill Barry wants to be Premier. That's nice for him - but what of for us?
The first interview you should watch is On Point with David Cochrance CBC - Press HERE
Let's start with "if everyone in the province wants the same old same old - I can tell 48 people to vote for".
With that one statement Bill Barry eliminated all elected MHA's - from all sides of the House. He does not agree with one of them? Certainly it was a smack at the Party he wants to lead - and maybe that's not a bad thing - but smacking everybody that any of us elected is more than a little scary.
Cochrane did a good job probing some of the obvious questions and therefore the people get a chance to listen to unedited answers. A response to one of the questions regarding political ideology - Barry stated "I am running for the Conservative Party". That statement was very clear and certainly distances Barry from the Progressive Conservatives in this province - who Barry feels are not conservative. "I am a fiscal Conservative" Barry said. Another indicator that his leanings are very/extreme right is when he says only, "I don't consider myself a callous person", he does not say I'm a social Liberal.
Sue's Blog made an initial call on Barry - likening him to Bill Gates - in that both gentlemen appear to love consolidation in their favour and the elimination of competition. They both also like to be in control of who is worthy to receive money and under what circumstances. This comes through again and again in his interview with Cochrane.
As for his comment "most of the crowd in government today - if it's a bucket of shit - most of them wouldn't know it if you hauled it down over their head" - Barry danced like a wounded butterfly to escape what he calls "Billisms".
Barry has his own language - and an ego to match. If Barry was that concerned about governance of the Province since Clyde Wells - then he certainly did not rally the people - speak out - do something to stop all the wastage's.
One of Cochrane's questions netted the following comment, "My life experience and business experience is quite different than would be the norm in the House of Assembly"... On this one I want Barry to elaborate. More particularly his life experience. The idea that Bill's life is quite different than most in the HOA means it is different than the norm of the people who elected them. What in Bill's life is different and not the norm? This particularly - as he has toyed with changing the health and education systems.
We already know Barry blew it on the "Newfoundland Inc." comment - no mention of Labrador - which he corrected in the interview to say Newfoundland and Labrador Inc. Once again it was obvious where Barry would go fiscally - and is one of the real indicators where he would go socially. Businesses - such as the ones he operates are not operated with a social agenda - they are operated to be profitable. The government and it's whole reason for existence may be escaping Barry.
Barry does talk about increasing revenues though royalties and increased activity in offshore exploration - but says nothing about the secondary processing piece - where we use our resources to attract industry with maximum processing output. That is the only way we sustain an economy and grow population. Barry's route would see a continued stripping of natural resources - mostly in the Labrador Inc. part of the equation - for a one time royalty. He sees royalties not industrial development and growth in the secondary processing sector as the way to sustain expenditures. Barry does not get that because it works in his business does not mean it will work to develop and grow a society. If Barry finds a better price for "his" fish - processing or otherwise - elsewhere - then it's gone. Stripping out ores and straight-lining energy out - instead of using the naturally occurring resource to expand industrial processing - seems to be his tune. Ironically this is no different than the government he abhors.
On the political savvy side of the equation - he does not get it. Barry states to Cochrane "I'm not politically smart" - and wears it like a badge of honour. I certainly cannot be accused of wanting politics as usual - but there is no need to deny yourself knowledge - and this appears to be what Barry has done. He says of delegates going to the Tory leadership convention - to go there with an open mind - listen to everybody then decide. Barry clearly does not even understand why most of the delegates would be there. If Barry wanted to do something different - he should be up bellowing for an open voting process - and attract 10,000 people to vote for him.
Bill Barry woke up one morning - the same way Danny Williams did - today I'm gonna become Premier - I'm gonna shake things up - I'm gonna do it my way. Let me take my prowess at making a fortune in the private sector and let me run your government that way. Our unemployment is still way up - we are losing population - we are growing debt and producing deficits - we are making bad deals for the people but great deals for the private elite.
Business as usual - Williams and Barry - same ting....
The two boys are feeling competitive - that's all. That want to use us as their playhouse.
The first interview you should watch is On Point with David Cochrance CBC - Press HERE
Let's start with "if everyone in the province wants the same old same old - I can tell 48 people to vote for".
With that one statement Bill Barry eliminated all elected MHA's - from all sides of the House. He does not agree with one of them? Certainly it was a smack at the Party he wants to lead - and maybe that's not a bad thing - but smacking everybody that any of us elected is more than a little scary.
Cochrane did a good job probing some of the obvious questions and therefore the people get a chance to listen to unedited answers. A response to one of the questions regarding political ideology - Barry stated "I am running for the Conservative Party". That statement was very clear and certainly distances Barry from the Progressive Conservatives in this province - who Barry feels are not conservative. "I am a fiscal Conservative" Barry said. Another indicator that his leanings are very/extreme right is when he says only, "I don't consider myself a callous person", he does not say I'm a social Liberal.
Sue's Blog made an initial call on Barry - likening him to Bill Gates - in that both gentlemen appear to love consolidation in their favour and the elimination of competition. They both also like to be in control of who is worthy to receive money and under what circumstances. This comes through again and again in his interview with Cochrane.
As for his comment "most of the crowd in government today - if it's a bucket of shit - most of them wouldn't know it if you hauled it down over their head" - Barry danced like a wounded butterfly to escape what he calls "Billisms".
Barry has his own language - and an ego to match. If Barry was that concerned about governance of the Province since Clyde Wells - then he certainly did not rally the people - speak out - do something to stop all the wastage's.
One of Cochrane's questions netted the following comment, "My life experience and business experience is quite different than would be the norm in the House of Assembly"... On this one I want Barry to elaborate. More particularly his life experience. The idea that Bill's life is quite different than most in the HOA means it is different than the norm of the people who elected them. What in Bill's life is different and not the norm? This particularly - as he has toyed with changing the health and education systems.
We already know Barry blew it on the "Newfoundland Inc." comment - no mention of Labrador - which he corrected in the interview to say Newfoundland and Labrador Inc. Once again it was obvious where Barry would go fiscally - and is one of the real indicators where he would go socially. Businesses - such as the ones he operates are not operated with a social agenda - they are operated to be profitable. The government and it's whole reason for existence may be escaping Barry.
Barry does talk about increasing revenues though royalties and increased activity in offshore exploration - but says nothing about the secondary processing piece - where we use our resources to attract industry with maximum processing output. That is the only way we sustain an economy and grow population. Barry's route would see a continued stripping of natural resources - mostly in the Labrador Inc. part of the equation - for a one time royalty. He sees royalties not industrial development and growth in the secondary processing sector as the way to sustain expenditures. Barry does not get that because it works in his business does not mean it will work to develop and grow a society. If Barry finds a better price for "his" fish - processing or otherwise - elsewhere - then it's gone. Stripping out ores and straight-lining energy out - instead of using the naturally occurring resource to expand industrial processing - seems to be his tune. Ironically this is no different than the government he abhors.
On the political savvy side of the equation - he does not get it. Barry states to Cochrane "I'm not politically smart" - and wears it like a badge of honour. I certainly cannot be accused of wanting politics as usual - but there is no need to deny yourself knowledge - and this appears to be what Barry has done. He says of delegates going to the Tory leadership convention - to go there with an open mind - listen to everybody then decide. Barry clearly does not even understand why most of the delegates would be there. If Barry wanted to do something different - he should be up bellowing for an open voting process - and attract 10,000 people to vote for him.
Bill Barry woke up one morning - the same way Danny Williams did - today I'm gonna become Premier - I'm gonna shake things up - I'm gonna do it my way. Let me take my prowess at making a fortune in the private sector and let me run your government that way. Our unemployment is still way up - we are losing population - we are growing debt and producing deficits - we are making bad deals for the people but great deals for the private elite.
Business as usual - Williams and Barry - same ting....
The two boys are feeling competitive - that's all. That want to use us as their playhouse.
Monday, February 10, 2014
PC Leaders in wait?
This is the shortest post I will probably ever write.
A leader does not wait to see who's in the race before they enter it.
Next up - the words to watch from Bill Barry. There were some real indicators from Barry when interviewed by David Cochrane last week.
A leader does not wait to see who's in the race before they enter it.
Next up - the words to watch from Bill Barry. There were some real indicators from Barry when interviewed by David Cochrane last week.
Tuesday, February 04, 2014
Trevor Taylor running for Tory leader?
Well the Tories should be ecstatic - looks like Trevor Taylor might be getting ready to throw his hat in the ring.
Taylor really lost it today in his Telegram opinion column READ HERE
Trevor decided that a frank discussion on the state of politics in Newfoundland and Labrador was in order.
His column takes many shots at the current crop of politicians in our province. He says of Liberal leader Dwight Ball: "Dwight Ball, while a nice guy, is not seen as a leader who is going to inspire the six or eight strong individuals he needs to step forward to form his first line."
A leader - Trevor - is somebody who is willing to step up and take on the hard tasks and do so without unnecessary drama and bravado. A leader - Trevor - is somebody who can bring people together from all sides of the political spectrum and make it work for the people. A leader - Trevor is somebody who does not quit in the face of adversity and finds a way to rebuild and connect. Dwight Ball is exactly that - and everything you are not.
Trevor expounds on "Cabinet Material" like somebody who knows what that is. Taylor was in Cabinet and accomplished what? Then Trevor quit. Then Trevor quit. Now Trevor complains.
He threw the entire backbench of the Tories under the big blue bus and is awaiting the coming of the next savior. Another man - like his leader Danny Williams - who quit. Or maybe like his leader Kathy Dunderdale - who quit. They are after all like him - they quit.
Considering your sage commentary - I expect your purported truth, wisdom and common sense is exactly what you will offer fellow Tories - by running for leader.
You remain a partisan sniper - who knows the political wilderness for your party is just around the corner. Now have the guts and step to the plate - and show us what you believe makes a real leader.
The recycled failed Tory Cabinet is exactly what you need to fix. What does it take to be a Cabinet Minister or leader Trevor? Why not show us.
Taylor really lost it today in his Telegram opinion column READ HERE
Trevor decided that a frank discussion on the state of politics in Newfoundland and Labrador was in order.
His column takes many shots at the current crop of politicians in our province. He says of Liberal leader Dwight Ball: "Dwight Ball, while a nice guy, is not seen as a leader who is going to inspire the six or eight strong individuals he needs to step forward to form his first line."
A leader - Trevor - is somebody who is willing to step up and take on the hard tasks and do so without unnecessary drama and bravado. A leader - Trevor - is somebody who can bring people together from all sides of the political spectrum and make it work for the people. A leader - Trevor is somebody who does not quit in the face of adversity and finds a way to rebuild and connect. Dwight Ball is exactly that - and everything you are not.
Trevor expounds on "Cabinet Material" like somebody who knows what that is. Taylor was in Cabinet and accomplished what? Then Trevor quit. Then Trevor quit. Now Trevor complains.
He threw the entire backbench of the Tories under the big blue bus and is awaiting the coming of the next savior. Another man - like his leader Danny Williams - who quit. Or maybe like his leader Kathy Dunderdale - who quit. They are after all like him - they quit.
Considering your sage commentary - I expect your purported truth, wisdom and common sense is exactly what you will offer fellow Tories - by running for leader.
You remain a partisan sniper - who knows the political wilderness for your party is just around the corner. Now have the guts and step to the plate - and show us what you believe makes a real leader.
The recycled failed Tory Cabinet is exactly what you need to fix. What does it take to be a Cabinet Minister or leader Trevor? Why not show us.
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)