He questions the courage of the convictions of many Newfoundland and Labrador bloggers and tweeters - because he says they will not go on his open-line show and talk to him directly.
He calls Twitter the cheap seats and tin-foil sales the activity.
Tim Powers you control the mic on your show - therefore one would have to be sufficiently confident that you will use it equitably to allow a contrary Nalcor opinion.
I have every reason to believe this is not the case. I would host your show on alternating dates and would invite people to call - the same way you do - but perhaps different people. In this way you do not control the mic at all times and therefore a thorough debate and discussion could be had.
The criticism's and altering positions that many of us hold and express through twitter and blogs are free from your prejudice interference and control. You can have a 3-4 minute conversation with me - then hang up and spin away for 2 hours. In a real debate this would not occur.
Today you were being challenged rightly on your contractual obligations as a lobbyist for Nalcor - to which predictably you answered in the affirmative - but only after the challenge occurred and also because that information is public - therefore readily available to all. You did however say that your company did work for Nalcor - not that you were the lobbyist.
So for the record:
Lobbyist name:
Timothy Powers,
Consultant
Initial registration start date:
2006-09-18
Registration status:
Active
Registration Number:
777504-14002
Client name:
Alderon Iron Ore Corporation
Lobbyist name:
Timothy Powers,
Consultant
Initial registration start date:
2013-02-01
Registration status:
Active
Registration Number:
777504-308605
So Mr. Powers you've got a bit of skin in this game and those seeking their positions in mining and energy are using your services to advance their case.
I do have to ask though if you are not in violation of the lobbyist acts either federally or provincially by not adjusting your lobbyist registration activity to include allowing your clients preferential access to a talk show that operates in the jurisdiction where the clients do business. When your clients come on your show and you carefully guide them through a series of questions - that will permit the advancement of their projects - is this not a lobbyist activity.
For certain however - you are not an independent host of a program - totally arms length from the significant and costly projects being discussed.
You then have the gall to question the courage of those people who choose not to participate in this lobby. Just think for a minute Tim - I or others could go on and do our stint - then you could allow other guests invited or otherwise to come on and spin their tale. In this way you are having the critics dealt with for your clients. Do you get it yet?
Then there's always this:
Client name:
Efficiency Nova Scotia Corporation
Lobbyist name:
Timothy Powers,
Consultant
Initial registration start date:
2013-08-21
Registration status:
Active
Registration Number:
777504-319585
3 comments:
Hit the Nail on the Head Sue!!
This is a fantastic piece that hits th nail on the head. Keep up the great work and hold these lobbyists and corporations accountable. Mr. Powers is manufacturing consent, and people need to understand this.
Well Sue, this just explains so much! Tell me, why does VOCM and parent companies not sit up and take notice? I am one who prefers to tweet or email to their talk shows rather than call, but since being ridiculed and yes, BULLIED because of my preferences by host Tim Powers, I have stopped cold. (if they don't want tweets or emails don't offer it up as an option). From there, I have stopped listening to VOCM Tim Powers' show altogether.
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