Thursday, December 4, 2008
"[Confidence in the government] isn't going to be restored by seven weeks of propaganda."
Reposted from: http://www.cbc.ca/canada/story/2008/12/04/harper-jean.html
GG agrees to suspend Parliament until January
Decision gives Tories reprieve, thwarts imminent attempt to topple government
Gov. Gen. Michaëlle Jean has granted a request from Stephen Harper to suspend Parliament until late next month, a move that avoids a confidence vote set for Monday that could have toppled his minority government.
"Following my advice, the Governor General has agreed to prorogue Parliament," Harper said outside Rideau Hall after a 2½-hour meeting with Jean.
Harper would not reveal the content of the discussion, citing constitutional traditions, but he said the first order of business when Parliament resumes Jan. 26 will be the presentation of the federal budget.
"The economy is the priority now, and the public is very frustrated with the situation in Parliament. We're all responsible for that," he said in French.
Monday's no-confidence vote could have precipitated the rise of a proposed Liberal-NDP coalition, supported by the Bloc Québécois, or it could have resulted in another election, depending on the Governor General's response.
The decision to suspend Parliament — made after Jean cut short a two-week trip to Europe — only gives the Tories a reprieve until Parliament resumes in six weeks. At that point, the party could be brought down when it tables the budget, which would be a confidence vote, as all money bills are.
In the interim, the Tories will continue to wage a public relations blitz against the Liberal-NDP coalition. But the opposition parties showed no sign of easing talks of a coalition and planned to continue waging their own campaigns to gain public support.
'Monumental change' required: Dion
Liberal Leader Stéphane Dion accused Harper of "running away" from Parliament and said only a "monumental change" from the prime minister would change his position on toppling the government.
"Warm sentiments are not enough. His behaviour must change," Dion told reporters.
NDP Leader Jack Layton suggested that his party may even try to bring down the government at the first opportunity — voting against a speech from the throne even before the Conservatives table the budget.
"We need a government that actually believes in what it's doing," Layton told reporters.
"[Confidence in the government] isn't going to be restored by seven weeks of propaganda."
He also accused Harper of attacking democracy by using a "parliamentary trick to put the locks on the door" so MPs cannot express themselves.
Bloc Québécois Leader Gilles Duceppe, meanwhile, accused Harper of denigrating Quebec voters and asking his supporters to engage in the "worst attacks" against Quebecers since the Meech Lake Accord.
The reference was to the failed negotiations in 1987 aimed at bringing Quebec back into the constitutional fold under then prime minister Brian Mulroney.
Asked whether the Bloc might support the Conservative budget, Duceppe said he would be surprised if Harper met their demands.
Supporters greeted Harper
Harper was greeted by about 40 chanting supporters, including many Tory staffers, when he arrived at Rideau Hall, the Governor General's residence, at 9:30 a.m. ET. A single anti-Harper demonstrator stood waving a sign reading "Harper Must Go."
Opposition parties had hoped to have a word with the Governor General before she made her decision. They planned to present her with a petition with signatures from all NDP and Liberal members that the Conservatives had lost the confidence of the House and urging her to accept a coalition government.
Dion, who would head the proposed coalition, had said he sent a letter to Jean on Wednesday, urging her to reject any attempt by Harper to prorogue Parliament.
The Conservatives have lost the confidence of the majority of members of the House of Commons — largely because of their, in the opposition's view, inadequate reaction to Canada's financial crunch — and thus "have lost the right to govern," Dion said.
The Conservative leader had vowed to use "every legal means" to prevent a Liberal-NDP coalition government from taking power and took to the airwaves late Wednesday to make his case to the public.
In a five-minute, pre-recorded statement Wednesday night, Harper spoke bluntly against the coalition backed by "separatists," saying the federal government must stand unequivocally for keeping the country together in the face of the global economic crisis.
Economic statement lambasted
The coalition sprang up after the Tories released an economic statement that was lambasted by the opposition parties.
They accused Harper of doing nothing to address the current economic crisis and slammed what they saw as ideologically driven measures such as the proposed elimination of subsidies for political parties, a three-year ban on the right of civil servants to strike and limits on the ability of women to sue for pay equity.
Harper has since backed down on those contentious issues, but the opposition has pushed forward with the coalition.
The coalition — which would have a 24-member cabinet composed of six NDP and 18 Liberal MPs — has vowed to make an economic stimulus package a priority, proposing a multibillion-dollar plan that would include help for the auto and forestry sectors.
With 77 Liberal MPs and 37 New Democrats, plus the support of 49 Bloc members, the three parties have more seats than the 143 held by the Tories.
GG agrees to suspend Parliament until January
Decision gives Tories reprieve, thwarts imminent attempt to topple government
Gov. Gen. Michaëlle Jean has granted a request from Stephen Harper to suspend Parliament until late next month, a move that avoids a confidence vote set for Monday that could have toppled his minority government.
"Following my advice, the Governor General has agreed to prorogue Parliament," Harper said outside Rideau Hall after a 2½-hour meeting with Jean.
Harper would not reveal the content of the discussion, citing constitutional traditions, but he said the first order of business when Parliament resumes Jan. 26 will be the presentation of the federal budget.
"The economy is the priority now, and the public is very frustrated with the situation in Parliament. We're all responsible for that," he said in French.
Monday's no-confidence vote could have precipitated the rise of a proposed Liberal-NDP coalition, supported by the Bloc Québécois, or it could have resulted in another election, depending on the Governor General's response.
The decision to suspend Parliament — made after Jean cut short a two-week trip to Europe — only gives the Tories a reprieve until Parliament resumes in six weeks. At that point, the party could be brought down when it tables the budget, which would be a confidence vote, as all money bills are.
In the interim, the Tories will continue to wage a public relations blitz against the Liberal-NDP coalition. But the opposition parties showed no sign of easing talks of a coalition and planned to continue waging their own campaigns to gain public support.
'Monumental change' required: Dion
Liberal Leader Stéphane Dion accused Harper of "running away" from Parliament and said only a "monumental change" from the prime minister would change his position on toppling the government.
"Warm sentiments are not enough. His behaviour must change," Dion told reporters.
NDP Leader Jack Layton suggested that his party may even try to bring down the government at the first opportunity — voting against a speech from the throne even before the Conservatives table the budget.
"We need a government that actually believes in what it's doing," Layton told reporters.
"[Confidence in the government] isn't going to be restored by seven weeks of propaganda."
He also accused Harper of attacking democracy by using a "parliamentary trick to put the locks on the door" so MPs cannot express themselves.
Bloc Québécois Leader Gilles Duceppe, meanwhile, accused Harper of denigrating Quebec voters and asking his supporters to engage in the "worst attacks" against Quebecers since the Meech Lake Accord.
The reference was to the failed negotiations in 1987 aimed at bringing Quebec back into the constitutional fold under then prime minister Brian Mulroney.
Asked whether the Bloc might support the Conservative budget, Duceppe said he would be surprised if Harper met their demands.
Supporters greeted Harper
Harper was greeted by about 40 chanting supporters, including many Tory staffers, when he arrived at Rideau Hall, the Governor General's residence, at 9:30 a.m. ET. A single anti-Harper demonstrator stood waving a sign reading "Harper Must Go."
Opposition parties had hoped to have a word with the Governor General before she made her decision. They planned to present her with a petition with signatures from all NDP and Liberal members that the Conservatives had lost the confidence of the House and urging her to accept a coalition government.
Dion, who would head the proposed coalition, had said he sent a letter to Jean on Wednesday, urging her to reject any attempt by Harper to prorogue Parliament.
The Conservatives have lost the confidence of the majority of members of the House of Commons — largely because of their, in the opposition's view, inadequate reaction to Canada's financial crunch — and thus "have lost the right to govern," Dion said.
The Conservative leader had vowed to use "every legal means" to prevent a Liberal-NDP coalition government from taking power and took to the airwaves late Wednesday to make his case to the public.
In a five-minute, pre-recorded statement Wednesday night, Harper spoke bluntly against the coalition backed by "separatists," saying the federal government must stand unequivocally for keeping the country together in the face of the global economic crisis.
Economic statement lambasted
The coalition sprang up after the Tories released an economic statement that was lambasted by the opposition parties.
They accused Harper of doing nothing to address the current economic crisis and slammed what they saw as ideologically driven measures such as the proposed elimination of subsidies for political parties, a three-year ban on the right of civil servants to strike and limits on the ability of women to sue for pay equity.
Harper has since backed down on those contentious issues, but the opposition has pushed forward with the coalition.
The coalition — which would have a 24-member cabinet composed of six NDP and 18 Liberal MPs — has vowed to make an economic stimulus package a priority, proposing a multibillion-dollar plan that would include help for the auto and forestry sectors.
With 77 Liberal MPs and 37 New Democrats, plus the support of 49 Bloc members, the three parties have more seats than the 143 held by the Tories.
Wednesday, December 3, 2008
Dear Department of Culture Supporter...
As you are undoubtedly aware, this past week has brought unprecedented change to federal politics.
We believe the proposed NDP/Liberal Coalition government is a welcome change to the ideologically driven ultra-right wing policies that Harper represents. With a formal agreement from the Bloc Quebecois and the support of the Green Party, this government now represents 63% of Canadian voters. Meanwhile Harper is trying to use his millions in fundraising advantage and ignorance of parliamentary procedure to keep power.
He can be stopped and there are several things that we encourage you to do:
1. Email the Governor General
We need to flood the Governor General's e-mail box with support for the coalition government. Copy and paste this letter or write one of your own. Send it along with your name and address to Michaëlle Jean. DO THIS NOW. It is essential that we show the governor general that there is massive support for this plan.
Send your message to: info@gg.ca
Your Excellency the Right Honourable Michaëlle Jean,
I am writing to encourage you to accept the proposal by M. Dion and Mr. Layton to form a coalition government in cooperation with M. Duceppe. The actions of Stephen Harper and the Conservative Party are motivated by a lust for power, not the best interests of the people of our country. I believe that the coalition - which duly represents the voices of 63% of Canadians - should be given the opportunity to form a government. I also do not think that an election is a prudent choice at this juncture. We need leadership and a cooperative process. I look forward to the days ahead with
hope; please act in the name of democracy and good government.
Best Regards,
[Insert your full name and address.]
2. Go to a rally in support of the coalition government.
On Saturday December 6th there are rallies right across the country. The Toronto rally will take place at the same time as a Conservative Rally at Queen's Park. Don't be confused by the Conservative rally at Queen's Park. Pro Coalition people are gathering at NATHAN PHILLIPS SQUARE. Jack Layton and Stéphane Dion will be speaking at NATHAN PHILLIPS SQUARE. Musical guests will follow.
The Conservatives are using their own considerable resources and sympathetic media in an attempt to escape a confidence vote and maintain power. We must demonstrate that the majority of Canada's citizens support the coalition by showing our numbers at rallies right across the country.
CLICK HERE for the time and location of pro-coalition rallies across the country
MANY OF THESE RALLIES ARE ON THURSDAY DECEMBER 4th
3. Sign these petitions:
http://www.avaaz.org/en/coalition_for_canada/98.php/?CLICK_TF_TRACK Canadians for a Progressive Coalition
http://www.progressivecoalition.ca/form.php
[ + http://www.62percentmajority.ca
http://canadianlabour.ca/en/coalition-governm ent-en
http://www.ipetitions.com/petition/coalitiongovernment/]
4. Join these Facebook groups:
Canadians for a Progressive Coalition
Canadians United Against Stephen Harper
5. Copy/Paste this message and send it to everyone you know via Facebook and email:
This situation is unprecedented. It is imperative that you act. The massive cash advantage that the Conservatives have means there are people BEING PAID to write emails and messages supporting Harper's cling to power across the country. At this moment, each action reverberates and makes a big difference.
We believe the proposed NDP/Liberal Coalition government is a welcome change to the ideologically driven ultra-right wing policies that Harper represents. With a formal agreement from the Bloc Quebecois and the support of the Green Party, this government now represents 63% of Canadian voters. Meanwhile Harper is trying to use his millions in fundraising advantage and ignorance of parliamentary procedure to keep power.
He can be stopped and there are several things that we encourage you to do:
1. Email the Governor General
We need to flood the Governor General's e-mail box with support for the coalition government. Copy and paste this letter or write one of your own. Send it along with your name and address to Michaëlle Jean. DO THIS NOW. It is essential that we show the governor general that there is massive support for this plan.
Send your message to: info@gg.ca
Your Excellency the Right Honourable Michaëlle Jean,
I am writing to encourage you to accept the proposal by M. Dion and Mr. Layton to form a coalition government in cooperation with M. Duceppe. The actions of Stephen Harper and the Conservative Party are motivated by a lust for power, not the best interests of the people of our country. I believe that the coalition - which duly represents the voices of 63% of Canadians - should be given the opportunity to form a government. I also do not think that an election is a prudent choice at this juncture. We need leadership and a cooperative process. I look forward to the days ahead with
hope; please act in the name of democracy and good government.
Best Regards,
[Insert your full name and address.]
2. Go to a rally in support of the coalition government.
On Saturday December 6th there are rallies right across the country. The Toronto rally will take place at the same time as a Conservative Rally at Queen's Park. Don't be confused by the Conservative rally at Queen's Park. Pro Coalition people are gathering at NATHAN PHILLIPS SQUARE. Jack Layton and Stéphane Dion will be speaking at NATHAN PHILLIPS SQUARE. Musical guests will follow.
The Conservatives are using their own considerable resources and sympathetic media in an attempt to escape a confidence vote and maintain power. We must demonstrate that the majority of Canada's citizens support the coalition by showing our numbers at rallies right across the country.
CLICK HERE for the time and location of pro-coalition rallies across the country
MANY OF THESE RALLIES ARE ON THURSDAY DECEMBER 4th
3. Sign these petitions:
http://www.avaaz.org/en/coalition_for_canada/98.php/?CLICK_TF_TRACK Canadians for a Progressive Coalition
http://www.progressivecoalition.ca/form.php
[ + http://www.62percentmajority.ca
http://canadianlabour.ca/en/coalition-governm ent-en
http://www.ipetitions.com/petition/coalitiongovernment/]
4. Join these Facebook groups:
Canadians for a Progressive Coalition
Canadians United Against Stephen Harper
5. Copy/Paste this message and send it to everyone you know via Facebook and email:
This situation is unprecedented. It is imperative that you act. The massive cash advantage that the Conservatives have means there are people BEING PAID to write emails and messages supporting Harper's cling to power across the country. At this moment, each action reverberates and makes a big difference.
"Lies, Lying Liars... and a fun quiz!"
Messages from Allies...
There's a lot of spin being rolled out of the Harper camp these days-- it's to be expected. Maddening as it is, it's the reality of the political game. But as the situation becomes more desperate for the Conservatives, so do their tactics. Now they're just making shit up.
It's desperate, but it's also calculated. It puts the opposition on the defensive, muddies the issues, and the public is left scratching their heads in confusion. All we can do is counter and counter again with the truth until the truth is heard.
That said, I figure we might as well have a little fun in the meantime. Yes, this can only mean one thing:
!! FUN QUIZ TIME !!
1. Of the following options, which we have chosen TOTALLY RANDOMLY, which is NOT illegal?
A) Bribing an elected MP
B) Recording a group conversation without the consent of at least one of the intended participants
C) Paying for a fifty-cent item with pennies
D) Forming a coalition in the House of Commons as a result of a motion of censure or want of confidence
ANSWER: D! But not according to Harper, who said, "[The coalition is an] illegal grab for power through the back door". (We would never imply, by the way, that Harper or any of his MPs ever tried to pay for anything with a fistful of pennies.)
2. Using the photo at the link below as a reference, which DOES NOT appear in the picture?
http://www.facebook.com/photo.php?pid=2206727&l=7d163&id=596390760
A) Stephen Dion
B) Gilles Duceppe
C) Jack Layton
D) the Canadian flag
E) A funny-shaped thing that looks like camera equipment
F) Paris Hilton
ANSWER: F! Stephen Harper would have flunked this one: "Yesterday ... we had these three parties together, forming this agreement, signing a document and they wouldn’t even have the Canadian flag behind them." (Paris, meanwhile, is mad about missing the photo opp and is consulting her lawyers.)
3. A "coup d'état" is...
A) "the sudden, violent overthrow of an existing government by a small group" (Britannica)
B) "the sudden unconstitutional overthrow of a government by a part ... of the state establishment — usually the military — to replace the branch of the stricken government, either with another civil government or with a military government" (Wikipedia)
C) "a sudden decisive exercise of force in politics" (Merriam-Webster)
D) "Sounds like a frenchie thing to me. Can't be good." (the clerk at Joe's Guns n' Ammo)
ANSWER: A, B, and C. (And now we know where Natural Resources Minister Jean-Pierre Blackburn got his schoolin' from.)
4. Which of the opposition parties is NOT a formal partner in the coalition?
A) The Liberal Party of Canada
B) Bloc Québécois
C) New Democratic Party of Canada
ANSWER: B. OK, that was easy. Harper knows this, too, but is trying to convince Canadians otherwise.
5. How many Bloc MPs will be offered Senate seats by the new coalition?
A) 6
B) 12
C) One MIIIIILLION!
D) 0
E) Less than zero
F) Pas de chance !
ANSWER: D, E and F are all acceptable answers. Even though 'zero' is the same in both French and English, Harper apparently confuses it with 'six'.
----------------------------------------------
If you answered all questions correctly, congratulations! Fabulous prizes include a voice in the House of Commons and a BRAAAAND NEEEEW GOVERNMENT !
Thanks for participating!
Lara
UNITE THE LEFT - Canadians for a Coalition Government
http://www.facebook.com/group.php?gid=47793722787&ref=mf
* * *
There's a lot of spin being rolled out of the Harper camp these days-- it's to be expected. Maddening as it is, it's the reality of the political game. But as the situation becomes more desperate for the Conservatives, so do their tactics. Now they're just making shit up.
It's desperate, but it's also calculated. It puts the opposition on the defensive, muddies the issues, and the public is left scratching their heads in confusion. All we can do is counter and counter again with the truth until the truth is heard.
That said, I figure we might as well have a little fun in the meantime. Yes, this can only mean one thing:
!! FUN QUIZ TIME !!
1. Of the following options, which we have chosen TOTALLY RANDOMLY, which is NOT illegal?
A) Bribing an elected MP
B) Recording a group conversation without the consent of at least one of the intended participants
C) Paying for a fifty-cent item with pennies
D) Forming a coalition in the House of Commons as a result of a motion of censure or want of confidence
ANSWER: D! But not according to Harper, who said, "[The coalition is an] illegal grab for power through the back door". (We would never imply, by the way, that Harper or any of his MPs ever tried to pay for anything with a fistful of pennies.)
2. Using the photo at the link below as a reference, which DOES NOT appear in the picture?
http://www.facebook.com/photo.php?pid=2206727&l=7d163&id=596390760
A) Stephen Dion
B) Gilles Duceppe
C) Jack Layton
D) the Canadian flag
E) A funny-shaped thing that looks like camera equipment
F) Paris Hilton
ANSWER: F! Stephen Harper would have flunked this one: "Yesterday ... we had these three parties together, forming this agreement, signing a document and they wouldn’t even have the Canadian flag behind them." (Paris, meanwhile, is mad about missing the photo opp and is consulting her lawyers.)
3. A "coup d'état" is...
A) "the sudden, violent overthrow of an existing government by a small group" (Britannica)
B) "the sudden unconstitutional overthrow of a government by a part ... of the state establishment — usually the military — to replace the branch of the stricken government, either with another civil government or with a military government" (Wikipedia)
C) "a sudden decisive exercise of force in politics" (Merriam-Webster)
D) "Sounds like a frenchie thing to me. Can't be good." (the clerk at Joe's Guns n' Ammo)
ANSWER: A, B, and C. (And now we know where Natural Resources Minister Jean-Pierre Blackburn got his schoolin' from.)
4. Which of the opposition parties is NOT a formal partner in the coalition?
A) The Liberal Party of Canada
B) Bloc Québécois
C) New Democratic Party of Canada
ANSWER: B. OK, that was easy. Harper knows this, too, but is trying to convince Canadians otherwise.
5. How many Bloc MPs will be offered Senate seats by the new coalition?
A) 6
B) 12
C) One MIIIIILLION!
D) 0
E) Less than zero
F) Pas de chance !
ANSWER: D, E and F are all acceptable answers. Even though 'zero' is the same in both French and English, Harper apparently confuses it with 'six'.
----------------------------------------------
If you answered all questions correctly, congratulations! Fabulous prizes include a voice in the House of Commons and a BRAAAAND NEEEEW GOVERNMENT !
Thanks for participating!
Lara
UNITE THE LEFT - Canadians for a Coalition Government
http://www.facebook.com/group.php?gid=47793722787&ref=mf
Tuesday, December 2, 2008
Harper's Hypocrisy... more of it, anyway
Reposted from facebook...
Stephen Harper is trying desperately to paint a coalition that includes the Bloc Quebecois as a move that will "destroy Canada."
Problem for Stephen Harper is that he proposed to form a coalition government with the Bloc Quebecois in 2004.
Spread the word on this blatant hypocrisy! Blog it, email it, send it to your Facebook friends, write letters to the editor, write your MP - whatever you can do!
http://www.voteforenvironment.ca/harper-proposed-coalition-bloc-quebecois-2004
Stephen Harper is trying desperately to paint a coalition that includes the Bloc Quebecois as a move that will "destroy Canada."
Problem for Stephen Harper is that he proposed to form a coalition government with the Bloc Quebecois in 2004.
Spread the word on this blatant hypocrisy! Blog it, email it, send it to your Facebook friends, write letters to the editor, write your MP - whatever you can do!
http://www.voteforenvironm
Petitons to sign in support fo the new Coalition
Your voice matters!!
http://www.62percentmajority.ca
http://www.progressivecoalition.ca/form.php
http://canadianlabour.ca/en/coalition-governm ent-en
And, don't forget to contact the Governor General: info@gg.ca
EDIT: here are two more...
http://www.avaaz.org/en/coalition_for_canada/97.php/?cl_tf_sign=1
http://www.ipetitions.com/petition/coalitiongovernment/
http://www.62percentmajority.ca
http://www.progressivecoalition.ca/form.php
http://canadianlabour.ca/en/coalition-governm ent-en
And, don't forget to contact the Governor General: info@gg.ca
EDIT: here are two more...
http://www.avaaz.org/en/coalition_for_canada/97.php/?cl_tf_sign=1
http://www.ipetitions.com/petition/coalitiongovernment/
Winnipeg Rally in Support of A New Coalition Government
All are welcome to attend an event in support of a new coalition government!
In the meantime, here is a little something to help you demonstrate your support. To accurately print a full-size version, click on the image below, save the file to your desktop, then print. Make as many copies as you can... affix them to your window, car, office door... anywhere you want and can!
Thursday Dec 4, 08
6:30 PM
Marlborough Hotel
Skyview Ballroom
331 Smith St
6:30 PM
Marlborough Hotel
Skyview Ballroom
331 Smith St
In the meantime, here is a little something to help you demonstrate your support. To accurately print a full-size version, click on the image below, save the file to your desktop, then print. Make as many copies as you can... affix them to your window, car, office door... anywhere you want and can!
Monday, December 1, 2008
Ten arguments against a coalition, and how to debunk them
Reposted from Facebook...
Originally posted by David Fernandes
1) The lib-ndp coalition is a 'coup'.
Actually, a coup is an illegal seizure of power. A coalition government is not only legal, it's constitutional, has happened before in Canada and is commonplace all over the world.
2) It's an 'unholy alliance' because it relies on the Bloc for support.
I'm curious as to what a 'holy' alliance is? The Bloc is a federal political party that advocates for Quebecers in the same way that the Conservatives are a federal political party that advocates for rich people. What's your point? The Bloc is left of centre and so is the NDP. Occasionally, when opportune, so are the Liberals. It is a strategic alliance, not a religious one.
3) The coalition is a cheap power grab by sore losers.
Political parties exist for one reason: to enact legislation that they believe is in the best interests of their constituents. Harper certainly tries. If one or more opposition parties decide they can agree on enough things to run the government, then power to them. Grab it. Both hands.
4) This is a 'socialist' / 'communist' plot to take over the country!!!!!!!
There's a great movie from the 80's called Red Dawn. Watch it. It all came true. The USSR parachuted in millions of soldiers into your neighbours' living rooms, and they all voted NDP and Liberal, Bloc and Green - well, ok, only 62% of them did. Lock your doors. They look just like you.
5) We need Stephen Harper right now because he's an economist
He's an economist that thinks that selling your country's public assets, bullying its employees and silencing its opposition is a plausible 'ways and means' to run a country in the face of the largest economic crisis since 1929. They have provided nothing in terms of economic protection for Canadian home owners and renters and nothing to Canada's largest employing industries - manufacturing and automotive. So, if that is the type of economist Harper is, I would much rather have a lawyer and a professor running the country. And if they can figure out how to work with a separatist party in a framework that is stable and progressive, than all the more power to them.
6) Ha! I knew it! The NDP-BLOC planned this all months ago - Jack Layton said so! It's a 'backroom scheme'.
Layton and Duceppe speak regularly as opposition leaders and made contingency plans like any other opposition parties do in a minority parliament. In fact, in 2005 the conservatives bloc and NDP were signatories to a letter to the governor general asking her to consider all her alternatives in the event of a dissolution of parliament - IE, the possibility of a coalition. The only 'scandal' here is that the tories illegally recorded and broadcast a private conversation, when they knew they were invited to it accidentally.
7) The people voted for Stephen Harper! You are trying to overturn the election results!
Actually, the people voted for political parties. They gave the tories a minority, which means, the prime minister must work WITH the other parties in order to pass so little as a fart. In Canada, our parliament has a sort of checks and balance system called 'responsible government', which means, the ruling party - the party that gets to form the government, must enjoy the 'confidence' of the house. Usually that means they need the majority of the votes to stay in power. The conservatives do not have a majority of the seats and have shown unprecedented (even for them) callousness and shortsightedness in their economic update and have lost the confidence of the house. Therefore, the GOVERNOR GENERAL must decide whether to call an election, or to give power to another group of parties.
8) Canadians did not vote for a 'coalition government'.
No one voted for Harper to act like a demagogic jackass either. The opposition parties, representing 54% and of the seats in the house - the majority - have every right to try and form a government. They will do so with a formal agreement that outlines how they will work together, and what legislative priorities they will have. Those priorities were voted on by Canadians and in fact more Canadians voted for the policies of the bloc, NDP and liberals than did the conservatives. Furthermore, those priorities will have to be a compromise of sorts between the three parties. This kind of negotiating ensures that policies that Canadians DID vote for DO get enacted.
9) The Bloc is a SEPARATIST PARTY!! THEY WANT TO DESTROY CANADA!!!
The Bloc is a FEDERAL political party that operates only in Quebec. And whether or not they are separatist, there is no way at all they could 'destroy Canada' by voting in the Canadian parliament and no way that the Liberals of the NDP would support a Quebec separation motion. Furthermore, the Bloc represent 65% of the seats in Quebec and are strong advocates of publicly funded and delivered social programs for all Canadians and Quebeckers, peaceful use of our military, pay equity and a long list of other progressive legislative ideas. A coalition would work with the Bloc to identify progressive ideas that they could implement for a 2.5 year period.
10) The NDP should not enter an 'unholy alliance' with the liberals because it will weaken their policies.
As it stands right now, the NDP is the fourth largest party in the parliament with 37 seats. Entering into a coalition with the liberals would give them 6 of 24 cabinet positions and would guarantee that at least some of their platform is implemented. The NDP could never accomplish this sitting by itself in opposition and frankly, it is high time the NDP start acting like a real power broker in parliament. That's why we elected them. And heck, what better proof of your ability to govern is there than governing?
Originally posted by David Fernandes
Ten arguments against a coalition, and how to debunk them
1) The lib-ndp coalition is a 'coup'.
Actually, a coup is an illegal seizure of power. A coalition government is not only legal, it's constitutional, has happened before in Canada and is commonplace all over the world.
2) It's an 'unholy alliance' because it relies on the Bloc for support.
I'm curious as to what a 'holy' alliance is? The Bloc is a federal political party that advocates for Quebecers in the same way that the Conservatives are a federal political party that advocates for rich people. What's your point? The Bloc is left of centre and so is the NDP. Occasionally, when opportune, so are the Liberals. It is a strategic alliance, not a religious one.
3) The coalition is a cheap power grab by sore losers.
Political parties exist for one reason: to enact legislation that they believe is in the best interests of their constituents. Harper certainly tries. If one or more opposition parties decide they can agree on enough things to run the government, then power to them. Grab it. Both hands.
4) This is a 'socialist' / 'communist' plot to take over the country!!!!!!!
There's a great movie from the 80's called Red Dawn. Watch it. It all came true. The USSR parachuted in millions of soldiers into your neighbours' living rooms, and they all voted NDP and Liberal, Bloc and Green - well, ok, only 62% of them did. Lock your doors. They look just like you.
5) We need Stephen Harper right now because he's an economist
He's an economist that thinks that selling your country's public assets, bullying its employees and silencing its opposition is a plausible 'ways and means' to run a country in the face of the largest economic crisis since 1929. They have provided nothing in terms of economic protection for Canadian home owners and renters and nothing to Canada's largest employing industries - manufacturing and automotive. So, if that is the type of economist Harper is, I would much rather have a lawyer and a professor running the country. And if they can figure out how to work with a separatist party in a framework that is stable and progressive, than all the more power to them.
6) Ha! I knew it! The NDP-BLOC planned this all months ago - Jack Layton said so! It's a 'backroom scheme'.
Layton and Duceppe speak regularly as opposition leaders and made contingency plans like any other opposition parties do in a minority parliament. In fact, in 2005 the conservatives bloc and NDP were signatories to a letter to the governor general asking her to consider all her alternatives in the event of a dissolution of parliament - IE, the possibility of a coalition. The only 'scandal' here is that the tories illegally recorded and broadcast a private conversation, when they knew they were invited to it accidentally.
7) The people voted for Stephen Harper! You are trying to overturn the election results!
Actually, the people voted for political parties. They gave the tories a minority, which means, the prime minister must work WITH the other parties in order to pass so little as a fart. In Canada, our parliament has a sort of checks and balance system called 'responsible government', which means, the ruling party - the party that gets to form the government, must enjoy the 'confidence' of the house. Usually that means they need the majority of the votes to stay in power. The conservatives do not have a majority of the seats and have shown unprecedented (even for them) callousness and shortsightedness in their economic update and have lost the confidence of the house. Therefore, the GOVERNOR GENERAL must decide whether to call an election, or to give power to another group of parties.
8) Canadians did not vote for a 'coalition government'.
No one voted for Harper to act like a demagogic jackass either. The opposition parties, representing 54% and of the seats in the house - the majority - have every right to try and form a government. They will do so with a formal agreement that outlines how they will work together, and what legislative priorities they will have. Those priorities were voted on by Canadians and in fact more Canadians voted for the policies of the bloc, NDP and liberals than did the conservatives. Furthermore, those priorities will have to be a compromise of sorts between the three parties. This kind of negotiating ensures that policies that Canadians DID vote for DO get enacted.
9) The Bloc is a SEPARATIST PARTY!! THEY WANT TO DESTROY CANADA!!!
The Bloc is a FEDERAL political party that operates only in Quebec. And whether or not they are separatist, there is no way at all they could 'destroy Canada' by voting in the Canadian parliament and no way that the Liberals of the NDP would support a Quebec separation motion. Furthermore, the Bloc represent 65% of the seats in Quebec and are strong advocates of publicly funded and delivered social programs for all Canadians and Quebeckers, peaceful use of our military, pay equity and a long list of other progressive legislative ideas. A coalition would work with the Bloc to identify progressive ideas that they could implement for a 2.5 year period.
10) The NDP should not enter an 'unholy alliance' with the liberals because it will weaken their policies.
As it stands right now, the NDP is the fourth largest party in the parliament with 37 seats. Entering into a coalition with the liberals would give them 6 of 24 cabinet positions and would guarantee that at least some of their platform is implemented. The NDP could never accomplish this sitting by itself in opposition and frankly, it is high time the NDP start acting like a real power broker in parliament. That's why we elected them. And heck, what better proof of your ability to govern is there than governing?
Make Parliament Work!
A rally is being planned for Winnipeg...
Keep your eyes and ears peeled!
More info soon!
Keep your eyes and ears peeled!
More info soon!
* * *
The Conservative government introduced an economic and fiscal statement last week that failed to provide economic relief for Canadians or any measures to get the economy back on track. The Harper government is also committed to trampling workers' rights and women's rights to pay equity.
Canadians need a government that shows leadership.
The opposition parties are acting in a responsible manner. They are not going to force another costly and time-consuming election. Instead the Liberals and the NDP are planning to form a coalition government, with the support of the Bloc Québecois in the House of Commons, to get this Parliament to address the economic crisis in a way that benefits workers and their families.
Let's support a coalition government that will get us through this economic crisis.
The Council of Canadians supports the call for a coalition government.
The Council of Canadians, Canada's largest non-partisan public advocacy group has just endorsed the call for a coalition opposition government
Read their statement here: http://canadians.org/08-Coalition/index.html
We believe that a coalition government is a legitimate and democratic option in this minority Parliament, that it would best reflect the concerns of the majority of Canadians, and that it is best suited to deal with the current economic crisis. We encourage our members and supporters to promote this call for a coalition government in their community.
The Council calls on the three opposition parties to defeat the Harper government in a non-confidence vote as soon as possible and to form a coalition government guided by a set of progressive priorities, including:
1. Agreement to proceed with the renegotiation of NAFTA, including seeking the removal of the Chapter 11 investor-state clause, the energy provisions, and water from the treaty.
2. Implement a Canadian energy strategy, which would address the environmental destruction of the northern Alberta tar sands, reduce eastern Canada's dependence on imported oil, and create the opportunity for Canada to become an international leader in developing new green jobs and publicly-owned renewable energy sources.
3. Implement a national water policy that would prohibit bulk water exports (by removing water from NAFTA), recognize the right to water through the United Nations, and ensure that water remains a public good not a private commodity.
4. Place an immediate moratorium on the establishment of any new for-profit privately-owned health care clinics in Canada.
5. Take immediate steps to introduce proportional representation to address the unbalanced results that come with the current electoral system in Canada.
Read their statement here: http://canadians.org/08-Coalition/index.html
We believe that a coalition government is a legitimate and democratic option in this minority Parliament, that it would best reflect the concerns of the majority of Canadians, and that it is best suited to deal with the current economic crisis. We encourage our members and supporters to promote this call for a coalition government in their community.
The Council calls on the three opposition parties to defeat the Harper government in a non-confidence vote as soon as possible and to form a coalition government guided by a set of progressive priorities, including:
1. Agreement to proceed with the renegotiation of NAFTA, including seeking the removal of the Chapter 11 investor-state clause, the energy provisions, and water from the treaty.
2. Implement a Canadian energy strategy, which would address the environmental destruction of the northern Alberta tar sands, reduce eastern Canada's dependence on imported oil, and create the opportunity for Canada to become an international leader in developing new green jobs and publicly-owned renewable energy sources.
3. Implement a national water policy that would prohibit bulk water exports (by removing water from NAFTA), recognize the right to water through the United Nations, and ensure that water remains a public good not a private commodity.
4. Place an immediate moratorium on the establishment of any new for-profit privately-owned health care clinics in Canada.
5. Take immediate steps to introduce proportional representation to address the unbalanced results that come with the current electoral system in Canada.
An Open Letter to Canadians
The following letter was issued today by the leaders of the three opposition parties.
To proceed with a new coalition, they need support from Her Excellency, the Right Honourable Michaëlle Jean [C.C., C.M.M., C.O.M., C.D.] Governor General of Canada.
The real majority of Canadians who voted AGAINST the CPC are encouraged to contact her by telephone -- 1 800 465-6890. Please note, you may get a message indicating that the necessary voice mailbox is full, so please send email, as well: info@gg.ca.
It is not too late to make Canada a better place!
------------
Monday, December 1, 2008
To our fellow citizens,
Canada is facing a global economic crisis. Since the recent federal election, it has become clear that the government headed by Stephen Harper has no plan, no competence and, no will to effectively address this crisis. Therefore, the majority of Parliament has lost confidence in Mr. Harper’s government, and believes that the formation of a new Government that will effectively, prudently, promptly and competently address these critical economic times is necessary.
The contrast between the inaction of Mr. Harper’s government and the common action taken by all other Western democracies is striking. We cannot accept this.
A majority of Canadians and Quebecers voted for our parties on October 14, 2008. Our Members of Parliament make up 55 percent of the House of Commons.
In light of the critical situation facing our citizens, and the Harper government’s unwillingness and inability to address the crisis, we are resolved to support a new government that will address the interests of the people.
Today we respectfully inform the Governor General that, as soon as the appropriate opportunity arises, she should call on the Leader of the Official Opposition to form a new government, supported as set out in the accompanying accords by all three of our parties.
Respectfully,
Hon. Stéphane Dion
Leader, the Liberal Party of Canada
Hon. Jack Layton
Leader, the New Democratic Party of Canada
Gilles Duceppe
Leader, the Bloc Québécois
To proceed with a new coalition, they need support from Her Excellency, the Right Honourable Michaëlle Jean [C.C., C.M.M., C.O.M., C.D.] Governor General of Canada.
The real majority of Canadians who voted AGAINST the CPC are encouraged to contact her by telephone -- 1 800 465-6890. Please note, you may get a message indicating that the necessary voice mailbox is full, so please send email, as well: info@gg.ca.
It is not too late to make Canada a better place!
------------
Monday, December 1, 2008
To our fellow citizens,
Canada is facing a global economic crisis. Since the recent federal election, it has become clear that the government headed by Stephen Harper has no plan, no competence and, no will to effectively address this crisis. Therefore, the majority of Parliament has lost confidence in Mr. Harper’s government, and believes that the formation of a new Government that will effectively, prudently, promptly and competently address these critical economic times is necessary.
The contrast between the inaction of Mr. Harper’s government and the common action taken by all other Western democracies is striking. We cannot accept this.
A majority of Canadians and Quebecers voted for our parties on October 14, 2008. Our Members of Parliament make up 55 percent of the House of Commons.
In light of the critical situation facing our citizens, and the Harper government’s unwillingness and inability to address the crisis, we are resolved to support a new government that will address the interests of the people.
Today we respectfully inform the Governor General that, as soon as the appropriate opportunity arises, she should call on the Leader of the Official Opposition to form a new government, supported as set out in the accompanying accords by all three of our parties.
Respectfully,
Hon. Stéphane Dion
Leader, the Liberal Party of Canada
Hon. Jack Layton
Leader, the New Democratic Party of Canada
Gilles Duceppe
Leader, the Bloc Québécois
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