Like many Canadians, I saw in today's Toronto Star that the Liberals have filed a statement of defence against Stephen Harper over the Chuck Cadman vote-buying scheme.
Rather than be frightened and cowed into submission as the Conservatives had hoped, we are standing strong and defying their scare tactics and attempts to muzzle free speech. The Liberal Party placed a legitimate and, in my opinion, accurate, criticism of the Prime Minister on the party website. As leader of the Conservative Party he is responsible for the actions of his deputies and must be held accountable for their improprieties.
By suing the Liberal Party, Stephen Harper was not interested in protecting his reputation, but instead interested in interfering with Liberal questioning of his activities. If he had been interested in the former, he would have protected his reputation by coming clean with the people of Canada about the actions of his officials and his full and total knowledge of the incident.
It is up to the Liberal Party to remain strong and unwavering in our decision to legitimately criticize the government. That is the role of the Official Opposition and I am very proud to be member of a party which holds Stephen Harper accountable for his actions.
May 12, 2008
Rising Food Prices Not a Horrible Thing
Recently, I have read many articles describing the rise in food prices globally as a very bad thing. I would like to disagree with this view point, and argue that rising prices are actually a blessing in disguise.
Many developed nations will spend billions of dollars every year to subsidize farmers so that they can earn a viable living on their own. Some people complain about rising prices around the world, but this is actually a good thing for farmers. The production of food requires a great deal of maintenance, effort, and financial input. Many farmers in Canada and countries around the world are forced to go into debt in order to acquire the capital to plant their fields in the spring.
Wouldn't it be better if higher food prices meant that these farmers could sustain their operations on their own?
Many developed nations will spend billions of dollars every year to subsidize farmers so that they can earn a viable living on their own. Some people complain about rising prices around the world, but this is actually a good thing for farmers. The production of food requires a great deal of maintenance, effort, and financial input. Many farmers in Canada and countries around the world are forced to go into debt in order to acquire the capital to plant their fields in the spring.
Wouldn't it be better if higher food prices meant that these farmers could sustain their operations on their own?
May 9, 2008
Humanitarian Crisis in Burma Shows the Need for Compassion
The last few days have allowed the world to see and understand the devastation posed by the recent cyclone in Burma. People's lives, families, and livelihoods have been wiped out
It is imperative that the international world (of both governments and private citizens) continue to give generously in order to avert a humanitarian catastrophe. The government of Burma must also look past its reservations and allow disaster relief teams entry to the country in order to save lives of their citizens.
It is imperative that the international world (of both governments and private citizens) continue to give generously in order to avert a humanitarian catastrophe. The government of Burma must also look past its reservations and allow disaster relief teams entry to the country in order to save lives of their citizens.
May 8, 2008
Dion a Visionary for Canada
Today's Globe and Mail story on Stephan Dion's expected announcement of a Carbon-Tax policy platform is a refreshing and invigorating addition to the Canadian political landscape. By advocating such a bold and innovative policy, Dion is showing that he has the vision and drive to be Canada's next Prime Minister.
Dion is a very intelligent and far-thinking leader. Rather than being swayed by political expediency and opinion polls, Dion has looked at the facts of our economy and environment and opted for a policy that will both protect our environment and stimulate our economy.
A Carbon-Tax is not a tax grab whatsoever, because it will be used to offset and lower income tax rates for Canadians. Under his plan, those people whose activities and lifestyles inflict the most damage will pay the most. I strongly support such an initiative which will lower the tax burden on individuals and families who work hard to lower their carbon emissions and preserve our environment.
We Liberals are so very fortunate to have a leader who will propose such a needed and beneficial overhaul to our tax system. On days like today, I am very proud to be a Liberal!
Dion is a very intelligent and far-thinking leader. Rather than being swayed by political expediency and opinion polls, Dion has looked at the facts of our economy and environment and opted for a policy that will both protect our environment and stimulate our economy.
A Carbon-Tax is not a tax grab whatsoever, because it will be used to offset and lower income tax rates for Canadians. Under his plan, those people whose activities and lifestyles inflict the most damage will pay the most. I strongly support such an initiative which will lower the tax burden on individuals and families who work hard to lower their carbon emissions and preserve our environment.
We Liberals are so very fortunate to have a leader who will propose such a needed and beneficial overhaul to our tax system. On days like today, I am very proud to be a Liberal!
May 6, 2008
Lack of Oversight Unacceptable
Stephen Harper is a devious, deceptive, secretive, and dangerous Prime Minister. Ever since becoming Prime Minister, he has made the government less open, transparent, and accessible to Canadians.
When civil servants try to do their jobs as they need to be done, if the PMO is unhappy about the content of their work they are disciplined or fired.
When journalists try to cover the government by asking it questions, they are often told 'sorry we don't choose to comment on this issue to you now. Go away.'
And now, it has just gotten even worse with the decision of the government to kill the centralized Access to Information registry. When a citizen asks and pays for the government to publicize certain information, it should be then presented in an open and accessible manner so that other Canadians can see this information without having to also submit and pay for an identical request.
Shame on you, Stephen Harper, for making Canada into a tyrannical and autocratic state!
When civil servants try to do their jobs as they need to be done, if the PMO is unhappy about the content of their work they are disciplined or fired.
When journalists try to cover the government by asking it questions, they are often told 'sorry we don't choose to comment on this issue to you now. Go away.'
And now, it has just gotten even worse with the decision of the government to kill the centralized Access to Information registry. When a citizen asks and pays for the government to publicize certain information, it should be then presented in an open and accessible manner so that other Canadians can see this information without having to also submit and pay for an identical request.
Shame on you, Stephen Harper, for making Canada into a tyrannical and autocratic state!
April 21, 2008
It's Time to Stand Up for the Safety of Canadians instead of Misguided Gun Owners
Earlier this month, I wrote a post regarding the wrong and harmful actions of the Conservative government in regards to the federal gun registry. I strongly oppose their efforts to break apart the registry because I am a firm believer in gun control laws and the methods of enforcement. Safety is far, far more important than the ability to own deadly and potentially fatal weaponry.
My outrage on this issue has only increased today in light of a Toronto Star Story which states that the Government has given back to gun owners far more money than it has cost to run the Registry. According to the article, the operating costs since 2006 amount to $35.9 million, yet they have refunded and/or waived $56.5 million!
They could have more than covered the costs of operating this vital Registry, but instead they have undermined it financially, morally, and publicly. When is this government going to wake up and put the safety of vulnerable Canadians before the frivolity of gun enthusiasts? Hopefully soon, before too many innocent lives are lost to gun crimes.
It is time to make a firm stand against firearms here in Canada. Stop refunding money to gun owners when it can be used to support the Gun Registry!
My outrage on this issue has only increased today in light of a Toronto Star Story which states that the Government has given back to gun owners far more money than it has cost to run the Registry. According to the article, the operating costs since 2006 amount to $35.9 million, yet they have refunded and/or waived $56.5 million!
They could have more than covered the costs of operating this vital Registry, but instead they have undermined it financially, morally, and publicly. When is this government going to wake up and put the safety of vulnerable Canadians before the frivolity of gun enthusiasts? Hopefully soon, before too many innocent lives are lost to gun crimes.
It is time to make a firm stand against firearms here in Canada. Stop refunding money to gun owners when it can be used to support the Gun Registry!
April 17, 2008
Hillier Deserves Criticism, not Praise and Adoration
This week's announcement that Chief of Defense Staff General Rick Hillier will resign in the summer prompted a flood of media adoration and rosy comments. They went on and on about his abilities to connect with the soldiers in Afghanistan and spoke about his strength in standing up for the military.
However, it seems that no one has taken the effort to substantively criticize Hillier for his inappropriate politicization of the Department of National Defense. This man has worked very hard to promote the mission in Afghanistan as a military mission, as opposed to diplomatic and/or humanitarian mission. However, his job is not supposed to be political. That is the role of the Minister of Defense, not the Chief of Defense Staff. I believe quite strongly that we would not be engaged in such a combat-oriented mission in Afghanistan if it were not for him
Hillier has spent far too much time criticizing the former Liberal governments under Jean Chretien and Paul Martin. He should have stayed out of the political arena rather than throwing himself into it.
I just wish the media would stop their Hillier love-in for just a few minutes to take him to task for overstepping his boundaries.
However, it seems that no one has taken the effort to substantively criticize Hillier for his inappropriate politicization of the Department of National Defense. This man has worked very hard to promote the mission in Afghanistan as a military mission, as opposed to diplomatic and/or humanitarian mission. However, his job is not supposed to be political. That is the role of the Minister of Defense, not the Chief of Defense Staff. I believe quite strongly that we would not be engaged in such a combat-oriented mission in Afghanistan if it were not for him
Hillier has spent far too much time criticizing the former Liberal governments under Jean Chretien and Paul Martin. He should have stayed out of the political arena rather than throwing himself into it.
I just wish the media would stop their Hillier love-in for just a few minutes to take him to task for overstepping his boundaries.
April 10, 2008
Jim Flaherty Doesn't Care about Vulnerable Canadians
Today, Jim Flaherty proved his mean-spirited and petty contempt for vulnerable Canadians. He told reporters outside of the House of Commons that in order to avoid a budget deficit "We're not raising taxes. There are other ways that governments can balance budgets, of course. We can always restrain spending if that becomes necessary."
How can Flaherty not realize that millions of Canadians depend on the government to provide vital services to them which cannot just be taken away without dire consequences. Too many Canadians are living paycheque-to-paycheque without any room to spare and they rely on the government for many services. How will they be able to cope if the government takes them away?
Flaherty could have said that, in the event of economic hardship in the government, wealthy Canadians would be called upon to pay more taxes. After, they made their wealth here in Canada, and they ought to do more for our country which has provided them with such opportunity. Instead, Flaherty decided to recover the hypothetical shortfall from the most vulnerable Canadians.
Our government provides many valuable services for our country. I would personally argue that it to do even more to help Canadians (such as access to child care for women and families), but at the very least, we cannot afford to take any of what we have now away from us. We need to invest in Canadians so we can all grow stronger together, not threaten to abandon the most vulnerable members of our society at the time when they need the government the most.
How can Flaherty not realize that millions of Canadians depend on the government to provide vital services to them which cannot just be taken away without dire consequences. Too many Canadians are living paycheque-to-paycheque without any room to spare and they rely on the government for many services. How will they be able to cope if the government takes them away?
Flaherty could have said that, in the event of economic hardship in the government, wealthy Canadians would be called upon to pay more taxes. After, they made their wealth here in Canada, and they ought to do more for our country which has provided them with such opportunity. Instead, Flaherty decided to recover the hypothetical shortfall from the most vulnerable Canadians.
Our government provides many valuable services for our country. I would personally argue that it to do even more to help Canadians (such as access to child care for women and families), but at the very least, we cannot afford to take any of what we have now away from us. We need to invest in Canadians so we can all grow stronger together, not threaten to abandon the most vulnerable members of our society at the time when they need the government the most.
Shocking Threat to Privacy!!!
On the Ottawa Sun's website, there is a shocking story about Canadians' privacy risks. Yesterday, American Homeland Security Secretary Michael Chertoff said that an individual's fingerprints are not private and eligible for sharing as biometric information.
He said that "They're not particularly private. Your fingerprint's hardly personal data, because you leave it on glasses and silverware and articles all over the world."
This is unacceptable and I am incredibly shocked that he would not recognize that something so unique and personal as one's fingerprint is not a matter of privacy for that individual. We need to have the right to control how our personal information is used and distributed. Our fingerprints are unique to each and everyone of us and, when examined, have the ability to identify us.
I am not comfortable with the idea of any person or any government having the ability to identify me without my knowledge and consent of it (which I would never give). Conservatives in both Canada and the united states need to realize that our unique personal information is sacred and not of the public domain.
He said that "They're not particularly private. Your fingerprint's hardly personal data, because you leave it on glasses and silverware and articles all over the world."
This is unacceptable and I am incredibly shocked that he would not recognize that something so unique and personal as one's fingerprint is not a matter of privacy for that individual. We need to have the right to control how our personal information is used and distributed. Our fingerprints are unique to each and everyone of us and, when examined, have the ability to identify us.
I am not comfortable with the idea of any person or any government having the ability to identify me without my knowledge and consent of it (which I would never give). Conservatives in both Canada and the united states need to realize that our unique personal information is sacred and not of the public domain.
April 9, 2008
Conservatives Sending the Wrong Message on Gun Ownership
Yesterday, the federal firearms commissioner made public his report in which he outlined that the Conservative government has refunded nearly $21 million to gun owners in Canada. Rather than forcing gun owners to comply with the gun registry, the Conservatives (led by public safety minister Stockwell Day) have encouraged them to flout the law.
The Conservatives has not only refunded gun owners for the fees they sent in during 2006, it has introduced an 'amnesty' so that unregistered gun owners do not need to comply with the law and register their deadly weapons. According to the report, 234,000 registrations have expired and their owners have not renewed.
Canadians need to be very, very concerned with these developments to our gun laws. Many of us like to think that the government will protect innocent Canadians from harm, but the truth is that they aren't protecting us. They're making it more difficult for police to know a full picture about the individuals they investigate and track. They're making it more dangerous for Canadians by allowing these guns to remain in houses and apartments across Canada where they can be used to harm people.
Guns are used not only by street criminals to inflict harm; it is not limited to drive-by shootings and gang violence. Some of these so-called 'ordinary, law-abiding Canadians' use their weapons in cases of domestic strife, disagreements with neighbours, or even against random innocent Canadians. Sadly, anyone with a gun in their possession has the option to use it on another human being, and some of them choose to do so.
We need to protect society from these deadly weapons, which should be a greater priority than allowing gun owners to keep their firearms outside of the law.
How can we expect to send a message to criminals that gun crime will not be tolerated when the government is enabling ordinaries Canadians to break the law as established by Parliament by not registering their firearms?
The Conservatives has not only refunded gun owners for the fees they sent in during 2006, it has introduced an 'amnesty' so that unregistered gun owners do not need to comply with the law and register their deadly weapons. According to the report, 234,000 registrations have expired and their owners have not renewed.
Canadians need to be very, very concerned with these developments to our gun laws. Many of us like to think that the government will protect innocent Canadians from harm, but the truth is that they aren't protecting us. They're making it more difficult for police to know a full picture about the individuals they investigate and track. They're making it more dangerous for Canadians by allowing these guns to remain in houses and apartments across Canada where they can be used to harm people.
Guns are used not only by street criminals to inflict harm; it is not limited to drive-by shootings and gang violence. Some of these so-called 'ordinary, law-abiding Canadians' use their weapons in cases of domestic strife, disagreements with neighbours, or even against random innocent Canadians. Sadly, anyone with a gun in their possession has the option to use it on another human being, and some of them choose to do so.
We need to protect society from these deadly weapons, which should be a greater priority than allowing gun owners to keep their firearms outside of the law.
How can we expect to send a message to criminals that gun crime will not be tolerated when the government is enabling ordinaries Canadians to break the law as established by Parliament by not registering their firearms?
April 3, 2008
More Proof of Racism Amongst the Conservative Party of Canada
In the past couple of days, documents have come to light showing racist tendencies held by Prime Minister Stephen Harper from a Reform Party policy document he wrote in 1988, as well as statements made as recently as 2001.
Today, it has come out that one of his caucus members, Tom Lukiwski from Saskatchewan, is the exact same. Apparently, Lukiwski as well as Saskatchewan Premier, Brad Wall, appear in a videotape containing sexist, racist, and homophobic statements.
Such beliefs is not the type of beliefs our elected representatives should hold. MPs represent every single one of their constituents, not only the ones with their preferred skin colour, gender, and sexual orientation.
Shame on the Conservatives!
Today, it has come out that one of his caucus members, Tom Lukiwski from Saskatchewan, is the exact same. Apparently, Lukiwski as well as Saskatchewan Premier, Brad Wall, appear in a videotape containing sexist, racist, and homophobic statements.
Such beliefs is not the type of beliefs our elected representatives should hold. MPs represent every single one of their constituents, not only the ones with their preferred skin colour, gender, and sexual orientation.
Shame on the Conservatives!
April 2, 2008
True Respect Requires Actions, not Just Words
Today, the House of Commons will vote on a motion in favour of lowering the flag on the Peace Tower to half-staff to show respect and remembrance for soldiers killed in Afghanistan. I fully support this motion and encourage all Members of Parliament, particularly those in the Government, to support and abide by its terms.
Conservatives frequently evoke rhetoric on just how much they support the troops serving in Afghanistan - yet, they oppose this motion! If they really care about the soldiers in question, they should want to convey this respect through actions, not just empty rhetoric. This is a tangible action which can be taken to show just how strongly they support the soldiers in Afghanistan and the sacrifices they are making on behalf of Canadians.
The complete text of the motion is as follows:
"That, in the opinion of the House, in order to show respect and to honour Canadian Forces and other Canadian government personnel who are killed while serving in overseas peacekeeping, peacemaking or humanitarian missions, the government should lower the flag on the Peace Tower to half-staff for the day following their demise as a remembrance of their important service to Canada and Canadians and that a moment of silence to be observed in the House, if the House is sitting on that same day."
Conservatives frequently evoke rhetoric on just how much they support the troops serving in Afghanistan - yet, they oppose this motion! If they really care about the soldiers in question, they should want to convey this respect through actions, not just empty rhetoric. This is a tangible action which can be taken to show just how strongly they support the soldiers in Afghanistan and the sacrifices they are making on behalf of Canadians.
The complete text of the motion is as follows:
"That, in the opinion of the House, in order to show respect and to honour Canadian Forces and other Canadian government personnel who are killed while serving in overseas peacekeeping, peacemaking or humanitarian missions, the government should lower the flag on the Peace Tower to half-staff for the day following their demise as a remembrance of their important service to Canada and Canadians and that a moment of silence to be observed in the House, if the House is sitting on that same day."
March 29, 2008
Immature Attack Website Crosses the Line
A friend emailed me the following link to a website which attacks the Liberal party.
http://www.ratemyleader.org/
Visitors are asked to watch videos of Dion and other former leadership contenders, such as Bob Rae and Michael Ignatieff, and vote on who wins the matchup. The current featured video depicts our Leader's speech following the recent by-elections and Bob Rae's speech following his win.
I think it crosses the line with its attacks on our Leader as well as other members of our united team. This is not a productive dialogue about how best to run and shape our country; it is childish, lame, and immature. Stephane Dion is a strong leader for our party and I am proud to support him and I eagerly await the results of the next federal election.
People who engage in this type of degrading, mean, infantile, and anonymous attacks are not only hurting and making fun of individuals, but hindering the development of a better Canada, under the Liberal Party of Canada
What do you think of this immature website?
http://www.ratemyleader.org/
Visitors are asked to watch videos of Dion and other former leadership contenders, such as Bob Rae and Michael Ignatieff, and vote on who wins the matchup. The current featured video depicts our Leader's speech following the recent by-elections and Bob Rae's speech following his win.
I think it crosses the line with its attacks on our Leader as well as other members of our united team. This is not a productive dialogue about how best to run and shape our country; it is childish, lame, and immature. Stephane Dion is a strong leader for our party and I am proud to support him and I eagerly await the results of the next federal election.
People who engage in this type of degrading, mean, infantile, and anonymous attacks are not only hurting and making fun of individuals, but hindering the development of a better Canada, under the Liberal Party of Canada
What do you think of this immature website?
March 27, 2008
Proposed Immigration Reform Wrong for Canada
Recently, there has been much discussion about the proposed legislative reforms to Canada's immigration policy. Immigration Minister Diane Finley has proposed that her office should have the authority to direct immigration officers to accept certain groups of types of people. This approach is completely wrong for Canada.
We are a country built by immigrants and their descendants. We ought to welcome newcomers to Canada with welcome arms, rather than seek to limit their numbers here. Newcomers bring new ideas, new innovations, new ways of thinking which add to the value of our existing society. Every immigrant, not just the most skilled or educated, brings a wealth of potential to our country and none should be excluded.
In Canada, we are fortunate to have the opportunity to develop and exercise our potential and contribute fully to our society, and we ought not to exclude immigrants just because they are not yet skilled. Skills can be learned and developed, but passion, commitment, and initiative cannot. We ought not to look specifically for immigrants based on the skills they possess, but rather for their willingness to work and grow here. In Canada, we can become anything we want to be
Canada is the greatest country in the world in which to live. I love being a Canadian citizen and I am proud to welcome immigrants from around the world to our country. By interacting, we can learn from them, just as much as they can learn from us. There is hope and optimism for the future of the planet as we all learn from one another.
I implore you, Minister Finley, do not just accept or reject an immigrant on the basis of their resume, but look deeper into what they can become here in Canada.
We are a country built by immigrants and their descendants. We ought to welcome newcomers to Canada with welcome arms, rather than seek to limit their numbers here. Newcomers bring new ideas, new innovations, new ways of thinking which add to the value of our existing society. Every immigrant, not just the most skilled or educated, brings a wealth of potential to our country and none should be excluded.
In Canada, we are fortunate to have the opportunity to develop and exercise our potential and contribute fully to our society, and we ought not to exclude immigrants just because they are not yet skilled. Skills can be learned and developed, but passion, commitment, and initiative cannot. We ought not to look specifically for immigrants based on the skills they possess, but rather for their willingness to work and grow here. In Canada, we can become anything we want to be
Canada is the greatest country in the world in which to live. I love being a Canadian citizen and I am proud to welcome immigrants from around the world to our country. By interacting, we can learn from them, just as much as they can learn from us. There is hope and optimism for the future of the planet as we all learn from one another.
I implore you, Minister Finley, do not just accept or reject an immigrant on the basis of their resume, but look deeper into what they can become here in Canada.
March 26, 2008
Buzz Hargrove, Liberal Candidate?
According to the news aggregator website National Newswatch, rumors are circulating throughout Ottawa that Canadian Auto Workers Union President Buzz Hargrove will be a liberal candidate in the next election. Even more exciting is the speculation that he will run against NDP leader Jack Layton in Toronto-Danforth!
I think this is excellent news for the Liberal Party and shows that we are very capable of attracting A-Level candidates to run under our banner. It further reinforces to the Canadian public that the Liberal Party is the only viable party which will actually stand up for hard-working Canadians, like those who work in the manufacturing industry.
The Conservative Government has stood by idly while manufacturing jobs have been weakened, and many have disappeared forever. If only we had a Liberal government in power, these concerns might actually be addressed.
This also sends a strong message that, like the Conservatives, the NDP lack the credibility to protect the jobs that Hargrove represents. Having him as one of our candidates will send a message that the only worthwhile progressive party in Canada capable of getting results on their behalf are the Liberals. The NDP may be vocal and loud, but they will never form the government and pass legislation.
Three Cheers for Buzz Hargrove and the Liberal Party of Canada!
I think this is excellent news for the Liberal Party and shows that we are very capable of attracting A-Level candidates to run under our banner. It further reinforces to the Canadian public that the Liberal Party is the only viable party which will actually stand up for hard-working Canadians, like those who work in the manufacturing industry.
The Conservative Government has stood by idly while manufacturing jobs have been weakened, and many have disappeared forever. If only we had a Liberal government in power, these concerns might actually be addressed.
This also sends a strong message that, like the Conservatives, the NDP lack the credibility to protect the jobs that Hargrove represents. Having him as one of our candidates will send a message that the only worthwhile progressive party in Canada capable of getting results on their behalf are the Liberals. The NDP may be vocal and loud, but they will never form the government and pass legislation.
Three Cheers for Buzz Hargrove and the Liberal Party of Canada!
March 20, 2008
Women Deserve Better From Society
Yesterday, I wrote a post about the importance of providing quality, affordable, and accessible child care options for working mothers across Canada, and i was quite dismayed to read the negative comments which this post generated.
The same type of regressive attitude towards women which I was striking out against was the attitude portrayed in the comments.
Women should not feel they need to remain in their homes because they cannot find quality affordable child care. Women should not be made to sacrifice their careers and individuality to raise their children. The nation needs to step up, do the right thing, and encourage women who want to have children and want to have a professional life as well. For far too long, women have been oppressed and kept back from reaching their full potential by society; in order to make up for this wrongdoing we must make significant steps to ensure that the playing field for women in the workforce is levelled. Allowing women to resume their rightful place in the workforce is something that we as a society should be eager and willing to do.
Furthermore, if the government step up and does the right thing, we can rest assured that all Canadian children receive the fullest and best quality learning opportunities. Some working families simply cannot afford to provide their children with educational opportunities to advance their development. These children should not suffer - they have the right to proper early learning and development.
Criticizing a woman's right to have a professional career and the right of her children to top-notch early learning programs is not the type of attitude we need in today's world.
The same type of regressive attitude towards women which I was striking out against was the attitude portrayed in the comments.
Women should not feel they need to remain in their homes because they cannot find quality affordable child care. Women should not be made to sacrifice their careers and individuality to raise their children. The nation needs to step up, do the right thing, and encourage women who want to have children and want to have a professional life as well. For far too long, women have been oppressed and kept back from reaching their full potential by society; in order to make up for this wrongdoing we must make significant steps to ensure that the playing field for women in the workforce is levelled. Allowing women to resume their rightful place in the workforce is something that we as a society should be eager and willing to do.
Furthermore, if the government step up and does the right thing, we can rest assured that all Canadian children receive the fullest and best quality learning opportunities. Some working families simply cannot afford to provide their children with educational opportunities to advance their development. These children should not suffer - they have the right to proper early learning and development.
Criticizing a woman's right to have a professional career and the right of her children to top-notch early learning programs is not the type of attitude we need in today's world.
March 19, 2008
Working Women Deserve Better and More Accessible Child Care Options
Today's Globe and Mail has a front page story, "Why more moms do the daycare shuffle" which describes the increasing tendency for mothers to return to full-time work. These women should be commended for their insistence on participating fully in the employment market, and they should be accommodated with better access to quality child care.
The Liberal Party understood these needs, and had worked hard (particularly Ken Dryden) to develop child care options across Canada.
Unfortunately, the Conservative government doesn't value the right of women to be productive members of society with a life outside their home. They scrapped the provincial agreements which would have increased the options and affordability of child care sought by the women interviewed in the article.
According to the Globe and Mail, 68.5% of mothers with children under 16 work between 30-40 hours a week. We need to work hard to ensure that these women don't have to choose between their children and their careers, and the Liberal child care agreements would have gone a long way towards supporting working mothers.
Stephen Harper's government doesn't respect women and it is time for Canada to elect a Liberal government that will!
The Liberal Party understood these needs, and had worked hard (particularly Ken Dryden) to develop child care options across Canada.
Unfortunately, the Conservative government doesn't value the right of women to be productive members of society with a life outside their home. They scrapped the provincial agreements which would have increased the options and affordability of child care sought by the women interviewed in the article.
According to the Globe and Mail, 68.5% of mothers with children under 16 work between 30-40 hours a week. We need to work hard to ensure that these women don't have to choose between their children and their careers, and the Liberal child care agreements would have gone a long way towards supporting working mothers.
Stephen Harper's government doesn't respect women and it is time for Canada to elect a Liberal government that will!
March 13, 2008
Another Former Conservative Disagreeing with Harper like a Rat Jumping a Sinking Ship
Earlier this year, I wrote a post about Kim Campbell's recognition that Stephen Harper and the current Conservative government are bad for Canada. I encourage you to read it: http://progressforprogressives.blogspot.com/2008/01/
even-kim-campbell-sees-just-how-anti.html
Now, Joe Clark has also come out criticising Harper's government. According to Clark, Harper's attitude to foreign affairs and international dealings is "a difficult and potentially dangerous course to follow. There's not a lot of reconciliation in Mr. Harper's makeup. There are issues he's not addressed."
Mr. Clark is entirely right; Harper's attitude on foreign affairs has been overly divisive, obstinate, and wrong. We used to be a nation of peacekeepers and peace-brokers. Now we are little more than the United State's blind following sheep.
Now that Clark has joined Campbell in expressing his reservations about the current government, it really seems like the rats are jumping off the sinking ship that is this government. If former conservative Prime Ministers have a problem with Stephen Harper, it can't be long before he is obliterated in a general election.
even-kim-campbell-sees-just-how-anti.html
Now, Joe Clark has also come out criticising Harper's government. According to Clark, Harper's attitude to foreign affairs and international dealings is "a difficult and potentially dangerous course to follow. There's not a lot of reconciliation in Mr. Harper's makeup. There are issues he's not addressed."
Mr. Clark is entirely right; Harper's attitude on foreign affairs has been overly divisive, obstinate, and wrong. We used to be a nation of peacekeepers and peace-brokers. Now we are little more than the United State's blind following sheep.
Now that Clark has joined Campbell in expressing his reservations about the current government, it really seems like the rats are jumping off the sinking ship that is this government. If former conservative Prime Ministers have a problem with Stephen Harper, it can't be long before he is obliterated in a general election.
March 12, 2008
RESP Bill a Winner
Liberal MPs are constantly thinking for new and innovative ways to make life better for Canadian families. The recent passage in the House of Commons of Dan McTeague's bill is a perfect example of this. It would allow parents to make tax-deductible contributions of up to $5000 per child per year.
This policy would be good for Canadians in the present and excellent for Canadians in the future. Allowing parents to invest in their children today ensures that tomorrow those children will be able to pursue their dreams and become highly educated and productive members of society, which benefits all Canadians. No child should have to decide against going to university or college because the cost is too high.
Although I believe that the government has a great responsibility to invest significantly in the education sector, I believe that we should also make it easier for parents to assist in this as well. Innovative thinking is what we need in Canada and I am proud that this idea came from a Liberal MP.
This policy would be good for Canadians in the present and excellent for Canadians in the future. Allowing parents to invest in their children today ensures that tomorrow those children will be able to pursue their dreams and become highly educated and productive members of society, which benefits all Canadians. No child should have to decide against going to university or college because the cost is too high.
Although I believe that the government has a great responsibility to invest significantly in the education sector, I believe that we should also make it easier for parents to assist in this as well. Innovative thinking is what we need in Canada and I am proud that this idea came from a Liberal MP.
March 7, 2008
If John Baird Really Cared about the Environment, He Would Actually Do Something About it...
CBC interview with Conservative Environment Minister John Baird. He said the following in reference to the recent critical environment commissioner's report:
"We want to do a better job."
Wow...
If he actually wanted to do a better job on the ebvironment, Baird would have actually implemented the Kyoto Protocal.
If he actually wanted to do a better job on the environment, Baird would have actually stood up to the oil companies in Alberta.
If he actually wanted to do a better job on the environment, Baird actually listen to environmental scientists rather than muzzling them.
If he actually wants to do a better job for the environment, John Baird needs to resign as Minister of the Environment and let someone competent take over.
"We want to do a better job."
Wow...
If he actually wanted to do a better job on the ebvironment, Baird would have actually implemented the Kyoto Protocal.
If he actually wanted to do a better job on the environment, Baird would have actually stood up to the oil companies in Alberta.
If he actually wanted to do a better job on the environment, Baird actually listen to environmental scientists rather than muzzling them.
If he actually wants to do a better job for the environment, John Baird needs to resign as Minister of the Environment and let someone competent take over.
March 5, 2008
Conservative Policy on the Death Penalty is Just Plain Wrong
It is completely inconsistent for the Conservative government to oppose the recent death sentence of a Canadian in Saudi Arabia while standing by and doing nothing for a Canadian sentenced to death in Montana. The government has decided to seek clemency for 23 year old Mohamed Kohail; however they refuse to seek clemency or support Ronald Smith, simply because he was condemned by the United States.
This government needs to wake up and stop endorsing everything the neo-conservatives do in the U.S. out of blind loyalty. The state should never have the right to take the life of an individual, no matter how 'democratic' or 'fair' the trial may have been.
While I do support Canadian efforts to spare Kohail's life, I want these efforts to also extend to Smith as well in order to achieve consistency in the Canadian position. The government deserves no praise for only doing what's right sometimes.
This government needs to wake up and stop endorsing everything the neo-conservatives do in the U.S. out of blind loyalty. The state should never have the right to take the life of an individual, no matter how 'democratic' or 'fair' the trial may have been.
While I do support Canadian efforts to spare Kohail's life, I want these efforts to also extend to Smith as well in order to achieve consistency in the Canadian position. The government deserves no praise for only doing what's right sometimes.
February 28, 2008
Chuck Cadman
Today, I am in no way surprised by the news that has emerged regarding allegations that the Conservative Party of Canada tried to bribe MP Chuck Cadman to support them in a confidence vote in 2005 against Paul Martin's Liberal Government. It's the exact type of sneaky, illicit actions I have come to expect from them.
According to an upcoming book, Conservative officials tried a series of bribes in order to secure Cadman's vote in order to defeat the government. Apparently, he was offered a $1 million life insurance policy among other offers. Several articles in newspapers across Canada cite Chuck Cadman's widow, Dona, as the source of these allegations.
The Conservatives have shown themselves to be a devious and sneaky lot, and this just goes to show to what lengths they will go to win, even if they had to break the law to do it.
According to an upcoming book, Conservative officials tried a series of bribes in order to secure Cadman's vote in order to defeat the government. Apparently, he was offered a $1 million life insurance policy among other offers. Several articles in newspapers across Canada cite Chuck Cadman's widow, Dona, as the source of these allegations.
The Conservatives have shown themselves to be a devious and sneaky lot, and this just goes to show to what lengths they will go to win, even if they had to break the law to do it.
February 26, 2008
Budget Disappointments
Today, finance minister Jim Flaherty released his newest budget, and it isn't good news for Canadians.
What about Canada's homeless? NOTHING
What about working parents who need affordable and quality child care? NOTHING
What about affordable housing? NOTHING
In my opinion one of the most despicable absences from this budget is the absence of any significant spending for aboriginal Canadians. The previous Liberal government had recognized the importance of acting to improve conditions for Canadian natives, but Stephen Harper quickly killed the $5 billion deal when he became prime Minister. Now they are only prepared to spend $135 million in new funds, which is too small to do anything of consequence. When will this government realize that they also have to take of all Canadians, not just the wealthy and upper-middle class?
Jim Flaherty and Stephen Harper are wrong for Canada and Canadians - we need balanced leadership that will provide for all Canadians, which is exactly what Stephane Dion will do once he is Canada's Prime Minister.
What about Canada's homeless? NOTHING
What about working parents who need affordable and quality child care? NOTHING
What about affordable housing? NOTHING
In my opinion one of the most despicable absences from this budget is the absence of any significant spending for aboriginal Canadians. The previous Liberal government had recognized the importance of acting to improve conditions for Canadian natives, but Stephen Harper quickly killed the $5 billion deal when he became prime Minister. Now they are only prepared to spend $135 million in new funds, which is too small to do anything of consequence. When will this government realize that they also have to take of all Canadians, not just the wealthy and upper-middle class?
Jim Flaherty and Stephen Harper are wrong for Canada and Canadians - we need balanced leadership that will provide for all Canadians, which is exactly what Stephane Dion will do once he is Canada's Prime Minister.
February 7, 2008
More evidence the government feels they are above the rules!
It has come out in the news recently that Minister of Finance Jim Flaherty broke the rules regarding who he hired to help writing last year's budget speech. According to a ctv.ca article (http://www.ctv.ca/servlet/ArticleNews/story/CTVNews/20080207/speech_writer_080207/20080207?hub=Politics)
Flaherty hired a man named Hugh McPhie who was paid $122,000 for his assistance. Personally, I believe with certainty that last year's budget (with its abandonment of Canada's aboriginals, the environment, and children living in poverty) was no where near good enough to deserve such an extravagent and exorbitant paycheque.
Although Flaherty is now claiming to follow the rules, his promises ought not to be believed. This is too little and it's most definitely too late.
Flaherty hired a man named Hugh McPhie who was paid $122,000 for his assistance. Personally, I believe with certainty that last year's budget (with its abandonment of Canada's aboriginals, the environment, and children living in poverty) was no where near good enough to deserve such an extravagent and exorbitant paycheque.
Although Flaherty is now claiming to follow the rules, his promises ought not to be believed. This is too little and it's most definitely too late.
February 4, 2008
Is the Government Trying to Purge the Civil Service??
Recently, I have written about heinous attempts by the Harper government to interfere with Canada's nuclear regulatory agency, the Canadian Nuclear Safety Commission, which culminated in the firing of Linda Keen by Natural Resources Minister, Gary Lunn. This government has taken every opportunity it can grasp to get rid of unco-operative civil servants and bureaucrats. Their policies have been so bad that even government employees have been criticizing them. Unfortunatly, the authoritarian Harper regime can't handle criticism and resorts to firing its critics!
The latest victim is Deanna Allan, who worked as the vice-president of communications for the Canadian Wheat Board. On Friday, she announced that she had been fired by CWB President and Harper Yes Man Greg Arason. Arason himself was hired last year when the Conservatives fired then-President Adrian Measner for his support of the CWB's monopoly on wheat and barley.
Allan, Keen, and Measner were doing their jobs properly, and not according to the wishes of the government, and they lost their jobs for it. Stephen Harper and his cabinet ministers are acting like school-yard bullies, and the Canadian people cannot get rid of them soon enough.
The latest victim is Deanna Allan, who worked as the vice-president of communications for the Canadian Wheat Board. On Friday, she announced that she had been fired by CWB President and Harper Yes Man Greg Arason. Arason himself was hired last year when the Conservatives fired then-President Adrian Measner for his support of the CWB's monopoly on wheat and barley.
Allan, Keen, and Measner were doing their jobs properly, and not according to the wishes of the government, and they lost their jobs for it. Stephen Harper and his cabinet ministers are acting like school-yard bullies, and the Canadian people cannot get rid of them soon enough.
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