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Canada doesn't want election, Ignatieff says

STEVEN CHASE

Globe and Mail Update

Latest comment posted at 12:35 AM EDT 08/10/07

Former leadership candidate makes blunt appeal to his party to rally around Stéphane Dion ...Read the full article

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  1. chris jenkins from Free the West, Canada writes: Every day there is a new 'headline story' with either Dion's or Ignatief's name front and center. There is never a mention of actual Liberal policy, or of any actual story at all, usually just idle musings from either of them or sometimes from an un-named 'source' that is critical of Harper. Apparently this is enough to maintain Liberal poll results in downtown Toronto.
    This phenomenon is a symptom of the polarization that has taken over Canadian politics. The Bloc represents only Quebec in our so-called National parliament. The Liberals don't need policy, or even respectability for that matter, because Ontario voters know that Ontario will be rewarded for giving the Liberals power. Harper is the only representative of Western ideals and fruitlessly waits for honesty and competence to win over the East.
    There is no hope for National unity any longer, thanks to Trudeau and his followers, and it is time we all took a mature decision to split this dysfunctional country up.
  2. A Digby from Canada writes: In the absence of comment by the Liberal leader, Mr. Ignatieff feels compelled to speak to save the 'leader' from his own folly of silence. Mr Harper is the Prime Minister at present and must be given certain latitude to advance the government's priorities without the constant sabre rattling from a disorganised opposition. The Liberals fear another election due to their state of disarray; they will be lucky to retain political party status let alone the official opposition.
  3. Voice in the wilderness from Canada writes: I want an election, if not to just end the countless G&M stories about having one.
  4. DJ W from Canada writes: Chris and Robert:

    Poor worded comments and I couldn't disagree more. I for one welcome a unique culture such as Quebec as part of Canada. Other parts of Canada are as unique, such as the Maritimes. Canadians may speak different languanges and have different histories, but we're all Canadians. You're posts make me think that you would have us act like some Balkan country that splits itself up along ethnic lines.
    I'm very Conservative, will vote for Harper as he's done an excellent job as PM and lament the fact that urban voters have largely been brainwashed by the leftists who think he is Bush light. But that's the great part about Canada: lots of voices and lots of original ideas.

    Both of you should be ashamed.
  5. matt s from Saskatchewan, Canada writes: Now the Liberals don't want an election. Which of their demands have they caved in on? Probably all of them as they are too scared to go to the polls. Why is the musings of Ignatief a story anyways? What is the Liberals policies anyways?
  6. Bobby Dy from Edmonton, Canada writes: chris jenkins-did the CPC have a policy platform released before the last election? They had policy debates and had made some decisions at their convention but their platform was released on a policy-a-day plan during the last election. Expect an LPC platform come election time. To release a detailed platform ahead of time would please the CPC but would be poor strategy.

    As for the cooperation on the crime bills, one thing left out was that the NDP were actually criticizing the LPC for being too cooperative on the 'law and order' agenda. The CPC refused to cooperate for the sole purpose of using it as a wedge issue in the next election. Once again, the CPC makes the assumption that Canadians are morons and are totally incapable of finding out the truth.
  7. Normand LaBine from Winnipeg, Manitoba, Canada writes: Canada needs a real election! How can any politician claim to represent his constituents when barely 40% of eligible voters actually vote! And of those that do make the effort, the winner only needs a majority of those that voted!

    Politicians have put us to sleep thanks to the spin on which scandal is worse, not the issues that kill our kids, not the issues that improve our sovereignty of our resources for the future, not the issues that give a hand up to all Canadians, not just the upper middle class.

    If this keeps up, Neo-conservatism in all our parties, we'll see our next generation looking for a Chavez or a Castro.
  8. MIKE MAHER from Canada writes: This should be titled Librano supporters of Canada don't want election.
  9. Mahatma Gandhi from Calgary, Canada writes: Much as I hate to say this, because I have a visceral dislike for Ignatieff, he's right. We want the Conservatives to stop making excuses and actually work. You know, as in earning a paycheck. Harper's brainwave to make every vote a vote of confidence means that Parliament will be paralyzed as the opposition has to decide whether to bring down the government or not three times a week. That's the whole idea, of course.

    We are fed up with political games. There are several critical issues that demand immediate, and intelligent, action: The Afghanistan mess, global warming, the environment, the spectre of bulk water exports. But all Harper can think of is to harrumph about drugs, and paralyze Parliament. Enough already. If Harper was a CEO, he would have been fired long ago.
  10. Scenic Sask! from Canada writes: LP of 'Canada doesn't want election', Ignatieff says. He has to say something, Dion hs gone into hiding. The Throne Speech can ask for Dion to kiss the butt of the PM and he will have no recourse but to stall and stammer.
  11. Robert Miller from Halifax, Canada writes: DJ W:

    Actually, DJ W -- it is Canada's corrupt Federal system that should be ashamed of itself.

    It is a country that did not howl with outrage when the Kelowna, Kyoto and Atlantic Accords (that Nova Scotians waited 20 years to get signed) were gutted that should be ashamed of themselves. If documents bearing the signature of the Government of Canada and two provinical members are meaningless then so is Confederation.

    It is a party that brought back the Power Corp/Chretien team when a Nova Scotian Liberal made a statement to the effect that Quebecers should not be given preferential treatment within the party that should be ashamed of themselves.

    It is a country that has a Prime Minister who referred to Atlantic Canada as a 'culture of defeat' that should be ashamed of itself.

    I, on the other hand, feel absolutely no shame.

    I think Nova Scotia should now follow the lead of Premier Williams in Newfoundland.

    Maitres chez nous!
  12. R. M. from Regina, Canada writes: I believe Canada WANTS, DESERVES, NEEDS an election so we can have some semblance of direction from whoever wins and hopefully a majority!
  13. Angry West Coast Canuck from Canada writes: What I'd like to see happen is for the government currently in power to stop acting like grade 1 kids with rash and start governing the country. As they have a minority, that will mean cooperation* and *give and take with the opposition parties. Unfortunately, Harper is a born dictator, as we have seen by his latest actions. Also unfortunately, Ignatief is firmly in the pocket of the same neo-con supporters that also fund Harper. As Ralph Klein (prov Conservative Alberta) said of Gordon Campbell (prov Liberal, BC): 'He's a great Conservative'. The same holds true for Ignatief.

    So excuse me if I'm just a little suspicious when Harper starts trying to force his MINORITY agenda through under thread of 'an election' (since when is having an election a thread, darnit? It's our right, not a chore!) and Ignatief just wants to placate the little Napoleon we currently call 'Prime Minister'. Doesn't help that Dion is a useless piece of milquetoast and whats-his-name for the NDP is as memorable and useful as week old lint.

    We need to just turf the lot of them and come up with a new set of 'leaders'. I want my money back on the current set please.
  14. James Anderson from no fixed address, Canada writes: Liberals need to come up with policies besides changing world weather patterns.

    Liberal need to quit saying 'Adsam is ten years ago' and telling us to forget it, that is shameful.

    Liberals keep saying 'Harper wants a mojority'.....
    and that is an insult?
  15. marlene gregory from Toronto, Canada writes: I think he is mistaken...many of us are so angry and distrustful of Harper and Flaherty that we can't wait to vote them out...
  16. Robert Miller from Halifax, Canada writes: J Luft from Calgary:

    For your information, we have oil and gas fields, water, lumber, tidal power, wind power, a sustainable environment, an ice free port in Halifax which is actually the closest to Europe and Northeastern Ports in the United States -- Not Montreal, you say?

    Can you remind me again -- What is it that Alberta has, and how long do you think you will have it for. Enjoy your royalties while they last.

    Also, check your other facts on geo-politics as they relate to Atlantic Canada before opening your misinformed mouth.
  17. Bobby Dy from Edmonton, Canada writes: Normand LaBine, I agree completely that Canada needs an election. It sounds inevitable now although, unfortunately, it looks like it won't happen on the throne speech. From what I can gather, the LPC want to take the government down on decentralization. That won't happen because the BQ will be onside with that one. The other issue could be the environment. The LPC needs to come up with a strong but more credible plan on that one.

    The real problem here is that, upon having reached the point where Harper feels he can no longer compromise with the opposition (completely appropriate position for him to take), he needs to go to the electorate and ask for a majority mandate. Unfortunately, he tied his own hands on that one. This was the irresponsible part of otherwise reasonable fixed election date legislation. A minority government NEEDS to have the ability to call an election to get a mandate to move ahead with their agenda without compromise. The mandate that Harper currently has is to find common ground with one or more oppostion party. He does not have a mandate to govern as he sees fit.
  18. Bobby Dy from Edmonton, Canada writes: James Anderson McNaulty, what is 'mojority'? Does this have something to do with 'mojo'? If so, is Harper practicing black magic?
  19. James Anderson from no fixed address, Canada writes: Bobby Dy woke up, and diane marie went to bed......
    What a joke!!

    Maybe diane will wake up and talk to herself, Bobby Dy.

    dishonest diane marie from calgary.
  20. Irene Cornwell from Canada writes: I still say Mr. Dion will surprise the nation with his campaign and the response of voters. I measure this by the time and effort going into demeaning him and defeating him even before an electin is called. I also think Canadians of all stripes are ahead of every politician in wanting serious government for serious times. As for Dion's silence. It is a perfect way to let the public have a say and then listen rther than jump to the bait.
  21. James Anderson from no fixed address, Canada writes: My incorrect spelling gives you Liberals someone to correct, you love that part of life.

    Liberals are just smarter than us common folk.

    And by the way, I have nothing to do with McNaulty.
  22. James Anderson from no fixed address, Canada writes: Irene, you are right again, Dion will surprise all you Liberals with 9% of the popular vote, what a great day that will be.

    Liberals should recruit Kim Campbell for the final run, then disban.
  23. Sean O'Reilly from Kitchener, Canada writes: You're are gd'd right we don't want another election! Go the course of four years and work! The people of this country have sent a message for the last two elections that a minority is what you will get. Don't waste more time and MONEY!
  24. Yeah Ignatieff geez OMG from Toronto, Canada writes:
    So this is on CTV - all pompous description of him coming to studio in Ottawa for Sate - National important pronouncement ...

    And CTVglobemedia is at the bottom of this/these page(s).

    So much for the respect of people's intelligence . Who can digest this crap/BS ...

    -------------------------------------------

    2nd - 'National Interest' = Liberano interests!???

    Again, insult after insult ...

    As one poster noted above - enough of tolerating Toronto and its Liberanos/'Social Engineers of the Oppression and Tyranny':

    'Legal-Justice-Judicial-Discriminatory/Destructive Social Services Industry'

    Time for LUSTRATION of those who inflicted or contributed to horrendous family and personal tragedies, destroying physically and materially thousands upon thousands and taking $$$$$$$$$$ from them.
  25. jim lllll from Canada writes: Apparently the police in London Ontario are investigating why $16,000 is missing from the coffers of a Federal Liberal Party riding association.
    Liberals everywhere lament the fact that they are reduced to stealing from themselves instead of taxpayers.

    It would appear that we jail the petty thieves and appoint the great ones to the Federal Liberal Party.
    The liberal politician of to-day is supposed to be in the second Oldest Profession. I have come to the conclusion that 'they' bear a very close resemblance to the first.
  26. Irene Cornwell from Canada writes: I keep wondering why all this demeaning of the Liberal Party is so important to 'confident' people. Confiodence in your own position usually breeds respect for others.
  27. Andrew E from Canada writes: I know it's Thanksgiving, G&M, but do you really need to re-write a pro-Liberal story? Is it that slow a news day? Ignatief's comments were already thoroughly debunked here: theglobeandmail.com
  28. James Anderson from no fixed address, Canada writes: Iggy now is spokesman for Canada?

    He would be about the last one to know what Canada wants.
  29. Yaun Alott from Canada writes: 'Canada doesn't want an election.' Translation: 'The Liberal Party of Canada doesn't want an election.' The reason is obvious.
  30. Andrew E from Canada writes: I wonder if Iggy has an opinion on Liberal financier/puppet-master Paul Desmarais Jr.'s involvement with TotalFina Oil in Burma?
    http://www.ottawasun.com/News/National/2007/10/07/4556813-sun.html
  31. Stevo the Orange from Winnipeg, Canada writes: That's 'Liberal' for WE'RE NOT READY!
  32. James Anderson from no fixed address, Canada writes: Andrew, Yes Iggy will have an opinion, he has an opinion on everything, it's the Liberal way. He'll make something up to show Harper is at fault for Desmarais insider trading accusations.

    Are you suggesting a Liberal could be dishonest?

    OMG!!
  33. MIKE MAHER from Canada writes: The Liberals demean themselves. They chose Stephane Dion to olead them. Nuff said.

    ha, ha. I see a picture on the home-page of that blowhard Denis Coderre when he was 15, and claiming he saw a UFO. And people still support this party?!?!? Lemmings.
  34. diane marie from calgary, Canada writes: Irene Cornwell:-- Happy Thanksgiving. I would have thought that, too (confidence). With respect to your first post, reduced expectations have the potential for pleasant surprise. Perhaps the notaleader campaign, by reducing expectations, will have unintended consequences.
  35. Robert Miller from Halifax, Canada writes: DJ W:

    I missed one more reason:

    It is people who think that Atlantic Canada needs to 'sponge off' someone else that should be ashamed of themselves.

    These people don't understand the current economic/political realities of the country.

    Again, I feel no shame for my original comments.
  36. James Anderson from no fixed address, Canada writes: Liberals should start by telling us about Policy, about how they will govern twenty years from now when they get another chance.

    All they talk about is how badly they want to win the next election.....
    How to get the power they can't believe they lost!!!

    It's curtains for the dishonest Liberal Party of Canada, the Chretien /Martin/Dion legacy .

    The darkest period in Canadian history.
  37. Steve Murphy from Alberta, Canada writes: Angry West Coast Canuck from Canada writes: What I'd like to see happen is for the government currently in power to stop acting like grade 1 kids with rash and start governing the country.

    Yes, indeed. Maybe they could do something mature like staging a shout down of the PM while he is trying to read an article from a newspaper. Now that is a mature party in action. Right.....
  38. Unrepentant Outdoorsman from Canada writes: The only ones not wanting an election is the Liberal Party. Canadian don't really care one way or the other, as long as it doesn't interfer with a hockey game, or holiday plans. The core that does vote, the 60 plus %, they will always make the effort, for they are the one that understand that it is a responsibility, a fought for right, to have a voice, and make a choice. The rest, they're the disillusioned, the lost that feel no voice in Government. What would be necessary for their inclusion would not sit as an option for the majority at this time. The NDP, well they're pumped, they smell an opportunity that doesn't come by often. The Bloc, well who cares. They may feel that by standing up and asserting themselves that somehow this may rekindle Quebecer's fear of the Feds and translate into votes. Votes they desperately need to convince the public that they are not redundant, no longer the party that can address Quebec's needs. The Conservatives, well they have money in the bank, a good solid core of supporters and two years of no major/radical changes that the Liberals said would occur. So that leaves the Liberals. Disorganized, insufficiently financed becasue of the new election finance laws, infighting, and a clear lack of a policy that would resonate with ALL Candians, not just the innercity groups or special interest groups. The polls keep reflecting the closeness between the two parties, but I do believe that they do not properly guage real public opinion. With the NDP and the Liberals fighting it out in the cities, and the Liberals only strong in Van/Tor/Mont, that leaves a heck of a lot of urban and rural voters. These voters are the target group for the Conservatives, and I do believe they are having success. Polling companys, when they phone your home, and if you have caller ID, they come up as caller unknown. Or they phone during the normal supper hour, (personal experience). Who would normally accept such calls? City people?
  39. James Anderson from no fixed address, Canada writes: diane marie, the reduced expectations you refer to in your ussual wordy manner, will be a pleasant surprise for Harper and great for Canada, a majority Conservative government.

    Dion will get about 9% of the popular vote, basically in greater Toronto and southern Ontario. 1 vote in calgary, and 1 in Edmonton, Bobby Dy.
  40. Unrepentant Outdoorsman from Canada writes: Yeah Ignatieff geez OMG from Toronto, Canada writes:

    What the hell point are you trying to make? Canada bad, you good? What, man, are you try to say besides jibberish?
  41. diane marie from calgary, Canada writes: Steve Murphy:-- The shouting and jeering is an equal-opportunity HOC phenomenon and it discredits all involved. I have to say that when a Prime Minister stands up to read from what was, in reality, a piece of tabloid fluff, he reduces his office. What next? The National Enquirer?
  42. Eric the Red from Canada writes: This just in: Canada doesn't want Ignatieff.

    Since when does this dope think he speaks on behalf of all Canadians?

    Remind me - what was he doing before he wandered back home?
  43. Robert Miller from Halifax, Canada writes: Desmarais? Desmarais?

    Why does that name ring a bell?

    Oh yes, Power Corp... Chretien... brown, manilla envelopes...

    It's also the last name of Peter MacKay's current girlfriend as I understand.

    You remember the guy that was so 'Conservative' that he couldn't even talk to Belinda when she went to the Liberals on a point of principle.

    A small bunch of interconnected mushy middle politicians that we are raising in this country without an ounce of principle evident in the function of the two main national parties.

    I don't see how anyone can cheerlead this system anymore, but you folks in the respective War Rooms have your jobs to do.

    Polarize away!
  44. James Anderson from no fixed address, Canada writes: Eric the Red, Great post....
    Iggy hardly speaks for the Liberals, much less me or any other honest Canadian.

    What an arrogant ---.

    He'll head back to the USA after the next Federal Election.
  45. James Anderson from no fixed address, Canada writes: Robert, MacKay is just dinking her, his real dog is back home. Peter's just toying with her.
  46. Larry Robinson from white Rock, Canada writes: The Professor is correct. As a Canadian citizen who has always voted with belief in my chosen candidate, I don't want an election.

    I see nothing in national leaders, party policies or local candidates to have me lining up at the polls. And these GM partisan slagging sessions ...?

    Is there anybody running as benevolent dictator?

    Is it possible that too much information results in people unable to appreciate real content? Junk information high in verbiage, low in content. Political leaders have become Ronnie MacDonald.
  47. Robert Miller from Halifax, Canada writes: James:

    You don't even know what ideology that I represent?

    Or which province is my province?

    You are a fool, and I don't communicate with fools who quote Thatcher to me.

    If we had a Thatcher in this country, I would vote for her.

    We don't.
  48. James Anderson from no fixed address, Canada writes: Roberta Miller from Halifax, I asked if your province is sponging from the rest of Canada.

    Just answer the question with references.
    How much do you get in Federal Transfer payments?

    You're a joke kid.
  49. James Anderson from no fixed address, Canada writes: Bobby Dy, You know you are a fear-mongering an lying poster.....seriously.. read what you wrote, maybe a little too much red wine? diane?

    You are a dishonest Liberal trool, stop it.
    Stick to the facts.

    Does Iggy speak for you?
  50. diane marie from calgary, Canada writes: Bobby Dy:-- Happy Thanksgiving to you. I'm not sure that Mr. Stelmach is a 'lock horns' kind of guy, but I agree that he'd benefit from an LPC win. On the topic - do you have the impression that Mr. Ignatieff has either taken it upon himself or was sent out to repair the damage perceived to be done by his uncooperative supporters (vis a vis Outrement)? I wouldn't be surprised that he received a great many e-mails from Liberals across the land.
  51. Robert Miller from Halifax, Canada writes: James:

    Seriously, please keep talking because I actually come from a long line of anti-Confederates. Everything that you say, helps the cause.
  52. James Anderson from no fixed address, Canada writes: Bobby Dy, serious, Dyablical.

    You really need to get out of there, you hate Alberta so get out of there before it all colapses.....

    How much did the Chretien/Martin Liberals steal through Adscam, was it $123,000,000 or $124,000,000?
  53. Michael Sharp from Victoria BC, Canada writes:

    I do believe Dion is having a breakdown.

    Here we have Ignatieff speaking for the Liberals.

    Dion huddles on his couch, nervously twitching, the thought of meeting with his caucus giving him palpitations.
    His eyes flit here and there, is that Harper at that door?

    Kyoto paces the living room, intuitively picking up his master's fear.

    The Liberals don't want an election?

    No sh!t Sherlock.
  54. Bland Blonde from Canada writes:

    It's weird reading these posts.

    Most of you guys are killing time with fluff and guff. No biggie.

    However, two people, both from Alberta, are on every thread every hour every day.

    They both seem to think they are intelligent, or at least try to convince others that they are. I think they are Liberals, based on their content.

    Question for you two:

    If you are so informed and correct about everything you say, why are you wasting your time on a newspaper blog that normal people don't read?

    Shouldn't you be doing volunteer work for disadvantaged youth and illiterate adults?

    The wasteful expenditure of your intellect and abilities on this sight should embarrass you. You come across as narcissistic blowhards.

    Get productive in the real world; leave the blog to drunks and shut-ins who are trying to kill a few hours.
  55. James Anderson from no fixed address, Canada writes: Bland Blonde...Great Post!!
  56. Bobby Dy from Edmonton, Canada writes: James Anderson, while your numbers are off by about two orders of magnitude, it pales in comparison to the billions of taxpayer dollars that the Alberta PC Party has been giving away to its chief party donors.

    Diane Marie, from what I can gather, the 'infighting' was restricted to the Quebec wing of the party and has been Ignatieff supporters acting against Ignatieff's directions. Ignatieff knows that there will be no change in leadership before an election. Ignatieff is not ready to lead the party in any case. He needs at least a couple of years more experience. In terms of why he was there, I think that part of it was to send a message to the Quebec wing that he does not support their current actions. I think that he is genuine in that. Dion has given him every opportunity to grow into a future leadership role. After watching him, I have little doubt that he recognizes this and has put his personal ambitions on hold for the time being.

    The purpose of Ignatieff's Question Period appearance was largely to put reverse-spin on the spin from the PM that he's prepared to govern and that the opposition wants an election. Even the radically right Canada Free Press has an article on how Harper is BSing when he states that he wants to govern and doesn't want an election. I think that Dion recognizes that Ignatieff is a good person to communicate this message to the English-speaking media at this point in time.
  57. Robert Miller from Halifax, Canada writes: Bobby Dy:

    If it is a government within Canada, it is probably bad!

    Newfoundland's Danny Williams is the only current ray of light that I can see out there.
  58. diane marie from calgary, Canada writes: Bland Blonde:-- I assume that I am one of the parties accused. So, a) you admit that you're not normal; b) you assume that I am motivated by the perception of audience; c) you assume that I assume that I am informed and correct; d) you know how I spend my time; e) you assume that your opinion matters to me; and, f) you forget that my productivity is my business (a home one). Did you have something to say or are you just slumming...
  59. J Luft from Calgary, Canada writes: Bobby Dy from Edmonton, says 'James Anderson, while your numbers are off by about two orders of magnitude, it pales in comparison to the billions of taxpayer dollars that the Alberta PC Party has been giving away to its chief party donors.'

    Maybe you should prove your libelous remark, Bobby boy.
  60. James Anderson from no fixed address, Canada writes: Roberta Millar, there are some great optical retailers in Halifax, do you have a telephone?

    Try asking your landlord for the number of one of them.

    How much does NS get in Federal Tsf payments? You don't know and you are spouting your hatred for Canada.

  61. Robert Miller from Halifax, Canada writes: That's it, James.

    Really let us, welfare bums, have it!

    Beauty, eh?
  62. Michael Sharp from Victoria BC, Canada writes:

    Bland Blonde from Canada blindly asks, 'Get productive in the real world; leave the blog to drunks and shut-ins who are trying to kill a few hours.'

    The irony of his post completely eluding him.
  63. James Anderson from no fixed address, Canada writes: diane marie, I think Bland Blondes accurate posting is very much bothering you. You don't like the truth, you never have.

    Why are you not with your 'Husband' , did he not just get home tonight from being is Scottsdale for the last five days?

    You are dishonest .
  64. J Luft from Calgary, Canada writes: Russ Kehoe

    Futue te et ipsum caballum

    Airhead.
  65. J Luft from Calgary, Canada writes: Robert Miller....no need to be so vile....just because your EI cheque was late.
  66. Bobby Dy from Edmonton, Canada writes: Bland Blonde, I agree that this is largely a complete waste of time. You are overestimating my contributions and the time that it takes to make them but I agree that it has become a unproductive distraction. As long as Harper is in power, though, it's also a public service to challenge his BS. If you'd pay attention, you would see that I treat most people with a great deal of respect. There are a few nutjobs out there, though, that insist on attacking and have to be dealt with accordingly.

    As for how productive I am in the 'real world'. You have no idea. I do very well thank you. I'd show you but the last person who revealed their identity was tracked down and harrassed by a right wing wacko. That's the last thing that I need in my life right now and, unfortunately, it seems that there are no shortage of right wing wackos that undermine legitimate, intelligent, conservative posters. The CPC has tried to distance itself from them but, no matter how hard they try, it seems like the party attracts their ilk.
  67. James Anderson from no fixed address, Canada writes: diane marie and Bobby Dy are the same poster, diane marie is the one always complaining about posters changing their monikers, typical Liberal dishonesty.

    How much did the Liberals steal from us through Adscam? Was it money they stole just to get re-elected?

    How shallow the Liberals, buying our votes with our money, and lying.
  68. diane marie from calgary, Canada writes: J Luft:-- Dirty/rude Latin - oooh - what part does a horse play in this?
  69. Bobby Dy from Edmonton, Canada writes: Apparently, Luft, you have been out of the province because it has been all over the news here recently. As per the Auditor General's report, it was a minimum of $3 billion that the PC Party of Alberta left with its major donors, the energy interests while hiding from the public its own internal reports. The government had a target of 25% royalties and let that slip below 19% and yet failed to act to rectify the problem despite being told that these royalties could be raised without any impact on the industry. That, however, was just one of many problems that we are aware of. We are still waiting to find out what Oberg meant when he threatened to reveal the 'skeletons in the closet'.
  70. Robert Miller from Halifax, Canada writes: Geezz, you Albertans, do you really need the Atlantic Canadians to do all the dirty work for you guys?

    You really should show a little initiative of your own.

    All right, I'll start you off with the reference:

    www.gin.gc.ca/FEDPROV/eqpe.html
  71. James Anderson from no fixed address, Canada writes: Roberta Miller promised not to dialoque with a fool like me, then started the dialogue,

    Sounds to me like Roberta is a dishonest Liberal.
  72. Bland Blonde from Canada writes:

    I'm reassured that the people I called narcissistic blowhards were able to identify themselves. You two shouldn't take yourselves and each other too seriously. I doubt anyone else does.

    Michael Sharp:

    There is no irony; I am a drunk and a shut-in.
  73. Steve Murphy from Alberta, Canada writes: diane marie, the Vancouver Sun is now the National Enquirer is it? Quite a big leap in logic equating those two. The Libs knew it was coming and their answer was an orchestrated shout down and the usual phony indignation led by Goodale. Grade school stuff indeed. Luckily, the Liberals have grown much more mature since then. Except for when Mark Holland went through all those boxes of CPC files with a fine tooth comb and claimed he was doing it for the good of Canada. And except for when Rodriguez introduced a bill that called for the government to enact the Kyoto accord within a matter of months even though his own party ignored it all the time they were actually in power. And except for when camera-loving Denis Coderre went on his solo trip to Afghanistan claiming the government wouldn't allow him to go, ignoring the fact that pretty much every MP and Senator from any party who wanted to go over there in the last 5 years has already been. Yes, the Liberals are above and beyond petty politics.
  74. Michael Sharp from Victoria BC, Canada writes:

    Excellent Bland Blonde, excellent.

    Very refreshing.

    More please.
  75. Robert Miller from Halifax, Canada writes: Bland Blonde:

    I believe that your words are the most intelligent ones on this blog so far, and so I will heed them because there doesn't seem to be much intelligent life here.

    Looking forward to Danny Williams' coronation on Tuesday!

    I hope he uses that 'Maitres chez nous' line again.
  76. James Anderson from no fixed address, Canada writes: diane marie, when will you start the 'pistol whipping' you promised at 2:09 this afternoon?

    You are just another dishonest Liberal.
  77. Bobby Dy from Edmonton, Canada writes: J. Luft, explain to us how oil wealth has been passed on to the rest of Canada. The GoC collects no oil royalties. It's all collected in taxes at the same rate as anywhere else in the country. It is a complete misrepresentation of what actually takes place to say that Alberta's oil wealth is transferred to the rest of Canada. Ontario's net tax contribution is greater in any case.
  78. Bland Blonde from Canada writes:

    Robert Miller:

    I also look forward to Danny's landslide.

    He is a smart, smart politician.

    He also has restored some of the luster to the Rhodes Scholar pedigree. Some politicians were tarnishing that venerable CV-booster.
  79. diane marie from calgary, Canada writes: Steve Murphy:-- The Sun is barely a notch above the Enquirer. Mr. Harper's attack was base. Mr. Goodale, having himself been unfairly smeared, was sincerely indignant. Mark Holland is a blowhard (his CPC counterpart is John Baird). The National Post suspects that Mr. Coderre will find out more than those engaging in NGC photo-ops will.
  80. Bradly Wiebe from theGandMsucks, Canada writes: Robert Miller from Halifax, Canada writes: J Luft from Calgary:

    For your information, we have oil and gas fields, water, lumber, tidal power, wind power, a sustainable environment, an ice free port in Halifax which is actually the closest to Europe and Northeastern Ports in the United States -- Not Montreal, you say?
    .
    .
    Yet you continue to suck on the government tit, and throw big hissy fits when it's suggested that you stand on your own two feet. Pathetic.
  81. diane marie from calgary, Canada writes: Bland Blonde:-- No one who has experienced lengthy single-party rule with a very weak opposition could ever wish for a landslide, no matter how seemingly well deserved at the outset.
  82. Robert Miller from Halifax, Canada writes:

    Parting cheap shot at the Albertans here!

    Atlantic Canada's casualties in the War of Afghanistan = 40%

    Western Canada's casualties in the same War = 17%

    Yes, some of you guys seem to love war. It's just the idea of personally dying for your country that you don't seem to be so thrilled about.

    My apologies to the good people of Western Canada who actually do fight for this country! God bless you.
  83. Bobby Dy from Edmonton, Canada writes: Diane Marie, the Vancouver Sun is not a part of the infamous Sun Media chain. It's actually a somewhat reasonable newspaper-the Vancouver equivalent of the Herald.
  84. Bland Blonde from Canada writes:

    diane marie from calgary, Canada writes:

    'Bland Blonde:-- No one who has experienced lengthy single-party rule with a very weak opposition could ever wish for a landslide, no matter how seemingly well deserved at the outset'

    Ms marie, I couldn't agree more.

    12 years of LPC hegemony had that effect on me too.
  85. Greg Davies from Calgary, Canada writes:
    Nice of Ignatieff to speak for Dion, on orders of course, but the burning question is where is Dion?

    Perhaps the question should be where the heck is Waldo?
  86. diane marie from calgary, Canada writes: Robert Miller:-- You take offence when the citizens of Atlantic Canada are stereotyped, but then return the insult by assuming that all citizens of Alberta share the same views. They don't.

    Bobby Dy:-- I stand corrected. Thanks. That was, nevertheless, a base attack on an MP.
  87. Michael Sharp from Victoria BC, Canada writes:

    What?

    The leader of the Liberal Party of Canada can't speak for himself?

    Why do the Liberals need to be reminded to rally around Dion?

    Is it because they have been less than rallying up to now?

    You bet it is.

    These guys are in big trouble.
  88. Bland Blonde from Canada writes:

    Ms marie:

    Further to Bobby Dy's correction of your erroneous assertion about the Air India article:

    The Vancouver Sun article cited by Mr. Harper was written by Kim Bolan. You might recall that she authored the book 'Loss of Faith: How the Air-India Bombers Got Away With Murder' in May 2005.

    She is widely considered the world's foremost authority about the Air India tragedy.

    Hardly a fodder-feeder for tabloids.

    Mr. Goodale and the LPC mounted a deafening shout-down because the questions raised by Ms. Bolan were indeed embarrassing for the LPC.

    Mr. Dion's rejection of the extension (whipped, no less), flew in the face of his own party's policy, not to mention the opinion of Bob Rae, Irwin Cotler, Ann MacLellan, and others.

    The spectre of a 'payback' for Sikh support at the leadership convention had loomed PRIOR to Ms. Bolan's investigative article.

    It remains a blight on Mr. Dion's credibility and loyalty.

    Who else does he owe favors to, and what will it cost?
  89. Bradly Wiebe from theGandMsucks, Canada writes: Bobby Dy from Edmonton, Canada writes: J. Luft, explain to us how oil wealth has been passed on to the rest of Canada. The GoC collects no oil royalties. It's all collected in taxes at the same rate as anywhere else in the country. It is a complete misrepresentation of what actually takes place to say that Alberta's oil wealth is transferred to the rest of Canada. Ontario's net tax contribution is greater in any case.
    .
    Is your ability to rationalize really that limited? I'm starting to think that you really are Kevin Taft. Because of oil wealth, the federal transfers to Alberta are lower than what the other provinces receive. In that manner, Albertas wealth actually IS getting transferred to the rest of Canada. The essence of equalizations in Canada. Just ask Ontario, they will tell you all about getting screwed by the feds.
  90. Greg Davies from Calgary, Canada writes: Bland Blonde from Canada writes: 'Mr. Goodale and the LPC mounted a deafening shout-down because the questions raised by Ms. Bolan were indeed embarrassing for the LPC.

    Mr. Dion's rejection of the extension (whipped, no less), flew in the face of his own party's policy, not to mention the opinion of Bob Rae, Irwin Cotler, Ann MacLellan, and others.

    The spectre of a 'payback' for Sikh support at the leadership convention had loomed PRIOR to Ms. Bolan's investigative article.

    It remains a blight on Mr. Dion's credibility and loyalty.

    Who else does he owe favors to, and what will it cost? '

    Blonde you are far from Blande.

    To the Liberals out there has anyone seen Waldo?
  91. Reg Anderson from Canada writes: Michael Sharp from Victoria BC

    Wasn't it you who when confronted with an explanation for WTC7 sent a link for a utube video about UFO's?
  92. Clem Brown from Metcalfe, On., Canada writes: Ah, Iggy Munster to the rescue. Where is Steph hiding. Time for an old fashioned Liberal circle jerk. Everybody come together, hold hands, 'ring around the rosie, pockets full of posie, husha, husha, you all fall down. What happened Munster, run out of knives? Couldn't find another spot on Dion's back? Better buy some armour Iggy if Kennedy gets elected.
  93. Robert Miller from Halifax, Canada writes: Diane Marie -- Sorry, my tongue was actually in my cheek for much of that. I have also lived in Western Canada, and I know that all Canadians are essentuially good, well meaning people.

    I hope that those two did check the Federal government government website that I gave them:

    http://www.fin.gc.ca/FEDPROV/eqpe.html

    because it would have shown them that the province of Manitoba actually is projected to receive nearly double the amount of equalization than the province of Nova Scotia in 2008-2009.

    I was about to fly into a diatribe of being tired of paying Canadian taxes to support Western provinces.
  94. david sandford from Canada writes: it's so refreshing to see a party that's not muzzled into silenced. SO REFRESHING!!!
  95. Lawrence Hutchinson from Houston, United States writes: Normand LaBine from Winnipeg, Manitoba, Canada writes: Canada needs a real election! How can any politician claim to represent his constituents when barely 40% of eligible voters actually vote!

    Huh? Voter turnout in the 2006 federal election was 64.7 percent.
  96. Terry Quinn from Canada writes: Michael sharp from some nut house.....its a shame they don't edit your posts at that institution. They would easily figure out that your illness is Liberalitis.

    That being said your comment on a Dion 'breakdown' because he hasn't spoken out yet on what his 'confidence' strategy will be is simply way off base.

    Iggy went on air yesterday to start the volleys Harpercrite will start to hear from the Liberal camp. He can call all the confidence motions he wants, but the opposition has the power to stop them from reaching that vote for a long time. After all, isn't that what commons committies are for?

    I would use the word democracy but as a Harpercrite supporter you will have to look it up.
    I would also use the terms polls, minority government, unpopular PM,etc.

    We are having an exceptionally warm fall here in the east and it does not affect our thinking. Chill out.
  97. Gogh Forit from Canada writes: If Canada doesn't want an election as Ignatieff says then it is crystal clear what is expected of the opposition: Toe the line!!
  98. Catherine Wilkie from Canada writes: Good article. Mr. Ignatieff was timely in his comments about the election. Also, cooperating with PM Harper who has promised Canadians fixed election dates. The credibility of PM Harper is stretched though with his recent press briefing. He did appear to be taunting and goading the opposition into a 'his way or the highway' approach. However, he should be reminded that Canada is a democracy and a leader would appear arrogant to keep up the rhetoric he sometimes lowers himself to.