Martin's missile fumble

On the issue of ballistic missile defence, as on so many others, Paul Martin has shown exceptionally poor leadership. It has been clear since he became prime minister that, if Mr. Martin had his way, Canada would sign on to the U.S. system for protecting North America from missile attack. One of his leading aims when he took the job was to shore up Canada's relationship with the United States after the rift over the war in Iraq. Joining missile defence was a heaven-sent chance to do it. Since the early days of the Cold War, Canada has worked hand in hand with the United States on the defence of our shared continent. Missile defence is clearly in that tradition. What Washington was asking of Ottawa was remarkably modest: a mainly symbolic sign-on, with no risk or cost to this country.