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Thrifty budget to prop up auto industry and fund cities

BRIAN LAGHI AND STEVEN CHASE

From Tuesday's Globe and Mail

Latest comment posted at 6:49 AM EST 26/02/08

Tories aim to secure votes in Ontario and urban Canada with targeted spending; live budget coverage begins shortly after 4 p.m. EST ...Read the full article

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  1. James P from Spruce Grove, Canada writes: Will Dion will be voting this down? I'm sure he said he would just like he made sure to let us all understand he wouldn't budge on Afganistan in 2009. Some leader. If he wants to learn how to be a leader, I suggest he look across the floor and learn.

    As for Flaherty, the guy just bugs me and I hope this will be his last budget however good these budgets have been, he is no Paul Martin as finance minister. That said, Harper is looking better and better each day as PM.
  2. Robin Hannah from Canada writes: Ask most Ontarians about Joe Flaherty - sorry, Jim Flaherty, and you'll get a grim response. This man doesn't give a crap about the working class. Auto-industry or otherwise. Just ask Mike Harris. Just don't ask Prime Minister Harper, apparently, because you won't get a straight answer.

    Ask Smilin Jim Flaherty.
  3. J Birch from Hamilton, Canada writes:

    'In the House of Commons, the government said it will not accept any amendments to the budget.'

    Oh yea, these guys really want to make Parliament work - uh huh

    Another Lie !

    Anybody who would vote for these guys after the cacophony of Lies and Betrayals in the faint hope that they might undo the damage they inflicted in Income Trusts, Fiscal Irresponsibility, Chalk River, Wheat Board, Gutless Intimidations and to Canada in general, or to change their stripes and stop lying, is suffering from Stockholm Syndrome.

    Dim Jim check yer shoes

    We really can't afford Harper

    .
  4. Duane Freemantle from writes: 'That said, Harper is looking better and better each day as PM.' Wasn't Harper who earlier this year assail the Ontario auto industry, by refusing to give the industry any assistance. This is a desperation move. Harper could have sat down with the Premier of Ontario earlier and discussed this issue like a politician who actually cared. The is nothing more than a motive to get more votes.
  5. doctor business from vancouver, Canada writes: Propping up the auto industry is asinine. Is anyone saying anything serious about the environment at all... one word? I guess we love the hot air. Automobiles are dinosaurs and the industry should DIE! Anything else is suicide of our species. No, seriously, we do need cars for ambulances and such. We need about .01% of what we have. The industry needs to die. It needs to be transformed into something that provides reliable jobs that don't need bailouts all the time. Something like trains, busses, bikes and all the in betweens. We have plenty of work to do. Why is it that the so called small government 'conservatives' are intervening here to subsidise the one industry that SHOULD die? Cars are not sustainable. Simple. Ok, maybe someone wants to argue about US or China production... It ain't sustainable there either. All car industries are subsidised to the point of vitality. They can't exist without the bailout. This is where the rhetoric of small government would actually do us some good for once. Maybe some will argue that we need the industry to compete with China and the US, that not bailing out this behemoth will put us at a disadvantage. That is DINOSAUR thinking. It is an advantage to save money and build for the future. Pure and simple. Wake up and turn it off. We do need to have some oil left after all of this so lets stop wasting it and use it on building the things we NEED NOW ie public transit and pedestrian possible cities. (No, streets with 'crosswalks' where you die if you don't wait for the light is not pedestrain friendly, only the brave go outside anymore)
  6. Bobby Dy from Canada writes: It's interesting how they rant one day about 'picking winners' through subsidizing specific businesses (e.g., auto sector) and then do just that when they think that there are votes to be had. Adding $300 million to a $9 billion budget represents 3.33% increase. That will make a huge difference in R&D. A bare minimum that won't even maintain the status quo. Nature was bang on in their criticism of Harper's approach to science. $300 million was the increase recommended for CIHR alone in a unanimous decision by the finance committee for last year's budget. This government is good at spin and not much more.
  7. James P from Spruce Grove, Canada writes: Duane Freemantle from writes: 'That said, Harper is looking better and better each day as PM.' Wasn't Harper who earlier this year assail the Ontario auto industry, by refusing to give the industry any assistance. This is a desperation move. Harper could have sat down with the Premier of Ontario earlier and discussed this issue like a politician who actually cared. The is nothing more than a motive to get more votes. ------------ Well the Globe said it was a move to get more votes, so it must be. I mean the 10 billion Paul Martin spent in 2006 was just because he loves all of you, I think that's a direct quote. No I think Harper looks better each day is the fact that he doesn't play those silly games. He could of spent most of the $12 billion surplus to buy votes, yet didn't. If Dion was in charge, what do you think he'd do? Oh yes, of course, he'd be investing in the country then and doing what was needed, no vote buying here. When Paul Martin gave me tax breaks and spent the money wisely I though he did good. I'm not partisan, just a taxpayer. Want to buy my vote? Let me keep more of MY MONEY and you'll be likely to have MY vote. That goes for paying down debt cause I know the feds will need less of MY MONEY next year to buy your votes with.
  8. Lalo Lad from Toronto, Canada writes: Interesting to see Flaherty flip flop just like any other liberal vote-buying budget from the past 13 years. You might as well call Canada's new government something like Canada's new Liberal government.
  9. Robert Lepage from Ottawa, Canada writes: James P, where have you been the last 2 years? Harper has been running an on-going election since he got into office; everything, and I really do mean everything, he has done was intended to garnish votes. You should really catch up with the times.

    The spending is needed I think. Do I agree with it? Not really, but I am not an economist (but then again, neither is Flaherty), so my judgment for what a minister of finance should do is about as capable astute as a chimpanzee with a graphing calculator; I'd say we're on par with Smilin' Jimmy.

    See my city to understand my utmost respect and admiration for good 'ole Jim. I expect that the next government will have a multi-billion dollar 'hidden' deficit, much like the little surprise he left us Ontarians. Flip flop is the word of the day... that and gross incompetence.
  10. Robin Hannah from Canada writes: 'Duane Freemantle - Harper could have sat down with the Premier of Ontario earlier and discussed this issue like a politician who actually cared.' No kidding

    In the two years he has held the office of Prime Minister of Canada, has Stephen Harper ever uttered words of concern, or interest, for working-class Canadians? Middle-class Canadians? Any Canadians?

    Has his Prime Ministership brought this country more together? Or is he up to something a little more malevolent.
  11. James P from Spruce Grove, Canada writes: You all seem too smart for this sinister scheme of vote buying. You know better than to vote for the conservatives even if they let Ontario have back a billion or two. Many screamed for the cash injection, now many will scream vote buying. Its expected. What wasn't expected was to have a government that reduced my taxes by over $2000.00 each year. What wasn't expected was for a government to keep its promise to reduce the GST or give me some help raising my kids with a $2000/kid tax credit. Or help my parents out by letting them income split their pensions saving them over $5000 this year. What a buch of jerks, they should have just cut a cheque to China for being such CO2 hogs..Then they'd get the big T.O. vote. Or spend a few billion on daycare so you can leave your children to be raised by others and force me to do the same because now the $2000 I just saved is now spent on daycare for the masses. Yes, I know you all have a better way to spend MY MONEY, but even though you are so much wiser, having MY MONEY back gives me hope I may someday learn to become as wise as youse guys.
  12. M Hansen from Canada writes: Wow - did no one actually read this story. 'Sources say' 'According to sources'. This whole thing is pure conjecture - as the budget has not been released the writers have no idea what is in it! Have to love the way some people can become so inflamed based on non-factual reporting.
  13. James P from Spruce Grove, Canada writes: Robert Lepage from Ottawa, Canada writes: James P, where have you been the last 2 years? Harper has been running an on-going election since he got into office; everything, and I really do mean everything, he has done was intended to garnish votes. You should really catch up with the times. --------------- Within 1 minute of Dion being elected leader he was threating to cause an election(still waiting). When have you ever seen a government do what was not going to get votes? Oh I know when, when this one took away the tax free income trusts, or how about when Harper took away the tax incentives on the oil sands that the liberals brought in(on the other side of PM Jean mouth, the east side, he said he was going to save the earth with kyoto) lovely governence! This one even gave us a plan where none existed before. Yet I digress, here, its about hate not about logic. How about when Harper did what was right and made it equal for all provinces with transfers? It made some mad, in fact what this gov has done is pi$$ed off all regions except Quebec. Look at the logic however and all they have done is create a more equitable system that doesn't favour one region over another. Makes you mad? You can vote and I'm sure you can't be bought. But realize what many have already, this government who of course wants to stay in power has made choices that no one else was willing to make. That makes me more inclined to vote for them then some 100lb weakling who'll waver the moment someone says poll are in you favour. Hey I'd vote differnet once I see someone differnet to vote for. They need to change for me, not for me to change to what they want me to be. Thats democracy.
  14. Chris Lalonde from Singapore writes: James P from Spruce Grove, Canada .... Good post!
  15. James P from Spruce Grove, Canada writes: Chris Lalonde from Singapore, somehow talking with some people here makes me wonder if they even care to think beyond their hate. Its like Cuba or something, they just like to toe the line and hail their leader without any merit to the end game. They'd like us all to believe if we just follow, all will be well. Its so contrived. I distrust all government, but here I feel a need to defend the best we have just to be on the safe side, you know. I'd take a different government if there was a plausible alternative, heck PM Joseph Jacques Jean Chrétien was 100 times more viable than what I see in Dion. Its his wimpy ,I care but only when I can win talk, thats really eats me.

    The dear leader Dion is very predicable. Harper may be hard and cold yet I could care less about it unless he becomes stupid. To date all Harper has been stupid about is thinking anyone east of Manatoba would care about him more than someone west of Ontario. Its Ontario that is the confused bunch yet some seem to think they can rule us all with their simple tactics of scare and vote. Its transparent, just ask the rest of the country. Many can see it, but I guess when you are in the middle you tend to over compensate.
  16. aniphylactic shock troops from Victoria, Canada writes: Who are the sources? Why is Flaherty commenting?
    Didn't Finance Ministers used to have to resign if budget details leaked out before it was read into Hansard?
  17. Roop Misir from Toronto, Canada writes: Is the economic slowdown far worse than reported in the media?
  18. David Blott from Dartmouth, NS, Canada writes:

    James P from Sprucegrove:

    For the record, the largest tax cuts you received came under the Liberal governments of Chretien and Martin.

    As for fair plans and annoying some regions in favour of others, tell us, how did you enjoy having your federal tax dollars go to fund the Quebec government's provincial tax cut, all in the name of buying Harper a few votes?
  19. Michael Powers from Canada writes: I do not understand why anyone would vote for Jack or the NDP. Long before the budget was drawn up, Jack announced that he would vote against it - no matter what. By doing this he ensures that he has absolutely no input or influence on the budget measures.
    He has done this with almost all legislation ensuring that he and the NDP are irrelevant.
    His idea of a principaled opposition is to say NO to everything, even measures that he supports.

    That is not leadership - it is stupidity
  20. George S from Toronto, Canada writes: Dr. Business, I agree with most of what you said. Flaherty needs to invest heavily in Public Transportation. This type of infrastructure will keep Canada competitive long into the future and help the environment at the same time. Canada needs to find a new type of industry to sustain us and not kill the environment. All urban areas need to be accessible for those of who don't own a car by choice or because of economic circumstance. It will mean that everyone can work without breaking their bank accounts while killing the environment. Flaherty... pump the surplus into public transit-it will soften Canada's landing in the inevitable post-oil economy.
  21. Rachel M. from Prude City, Canada writes: Past two budgets had quite a lot of spending and spreading some of the surpluses back to the provinces.

    The lead up to this budget seems to be a more small c conservative one. It should be more prudent in times of some economic uncertainty. Hopefully the government will focus on debt reduction, and stay away from spending and tax cut.

    Mr. Flaherty's symbolism of not buying new shoes is just that. We look forward to a leaner and not so meaner budget.
  22. Daryn Dyer from London, Canada writes: For some reason, in Ontario, we don't expect this era of Liberal governments to run deficits; its conservatives who we worry about. Two prime examples being Harris and Flaherty. McGuinty wont do it, Dion wouldn't, Martin wouldn't, neither would Manley (a former finance minister and deputy PM) ....it political suicide.

    The propaganda coming from the conservatives reeks of desperation; they know they threw too much money away during their economic statement in the fall. What's more, they know their record for fiscal polices has been a wreck thus far. And they are trying to paint the liberals as imprudent after 10 straight years of liberal surplus budgets....right we aren't buying it. In fact, most Ontarians expect Flaherty to pull Harris with the federal finances.

    Harper, representing the wests hate of Ontario; we know that too Harper hates Ontario and its values and has been trying to isolate us ever since. Harper, better start showing McGuinty some respect; with John Tory staying on as PC leader......McGuinty will be around for a long long time!
  23. Vern McPherson from writes: The COns can so what they want - say what they want.

    The vast majority of Canadians do not want them in a majority governing position - and that's the truth.......
  24. Bill C. O'llector from Canada writes: Ahh, the usual Liberal complainers are at it early this morning - complain if nothing is done, complain if something is done - the Liberal hacks couldn't pick a stance and stick with it if their lives depended on it.

    The same Liberal hacks who criticised Harper on Afghanistan yesterday and turned a blimd eye to Dion.

    Once a Liberal sheep, always a Liberal sheep.
  25. David Bakody from Dartmouth, Canada writes: But it seems the Tories may also lack ardour for an immediate election, given they appear to be loading the budget with items the opposition can support. “They do not want an election right now,” one Ottawa insider said.

    The pledge for close to $1-billion in infrastructure funding echoes the Liberal playbook, as Stéphane Dion pledged to funnel surplus cash above $3-billion to infrastructure spending.

    In the House of Commons, the government said it will not accept any amendments to the budget.

    Nuff said! The Bully on the Hill has spoken, all bow to King Harper.
  26. Duane Freemantle from writes: James P, what are you actually talking about. 'No I think Harper looks better each day is the fact that he doesn't play those silly games.' It makes absolutely no sense. James P, you are looking through optics. The auto industry wanted Ottawa to provide some form of assistance, but this government refused. This government stated that they would not pick winner and losers. Now, there is a possibility that Ottawa may actually provide assistance. Harper wants to appear that he is in control, of the governments agenda. Also, this government talks as though they are a majority government, but acts as though they are a minority. These are prime example of playing games.
  27. David Bakody from Dartmouth, Canada writes: M Hansen from Canada writes:

    For some years now the budgets have been released on the Q/T partner so should all hell break out, they simple deny it (using your words) and move to plan 'B' ....it called politics

    Now, Sir....what is the ETA for the 1,000 troops and equipment? That would be nice to hear other than bumper stickers and dog and pony shows on HNIC.
  28. Fred Draper from Kingston, Canada writes: Robin Hannah and Daryn Dyer, you angry little lefties yah! Lots of CAW workers voted for Mike Harris.

    Flaherty never worked for Eves as Finance minister, only Harris for 14 months. Eves ran the $5.6 billion deficit. Energy price caps being a big explaining factor.

    The silliest comment is the one about how we may already be in deficit. Where is the $11.6 billion coming from then?

    Flaherty never ran a deficit and never will!
  29. Mr. Justice from Canada writes: A h h h h h h h . . . public assistance money (some people call it 'being on the dole' or 'welfare') for the auto industry !

    Gotta love 'free enterprise'. When 'in trouble' (of your own making), get your 'private industry mouths' into the public trough.
  30. Oh Canada from Bramledesh, Canada writes: I thought our economy was ' As solid as the Canadian shield' looks like the coffers will soon be empty, another patch job. I give it 3 more months!!
  31. Chris Lalonde from Singapore writes: James P from Spruce Grove, Canada ... I liked your post at 2:43AM. Seems like alot of people are confused by basic elements of the budget and finance/money matters altogether. There is hysterics from the usual suspects that seem to think tax relief = spending and the federal purses are running dry while there is a balanced budget. I think it's time for every child to be told basic money matter concepts in school (though the parents must do this to)!

    The only main disappointment for me is that I think the gov't should be encouraging companies to invest & people to save (lower investment/capital taxes) versus spending (GST cut). The average consumer savings rate is abysmal. Long term wise, this is better for the country.

    Moving forward, this budget sounds like it will be reasonable. On the topic of regions, I think what's good for one region is usually good for the country. It's not usually a zero-sum game. Anyway, hopefully Ontario will vote conservative in this election!
  32. prospector from blackfly country from Canada writes: Robin Hannah from Canada writes: Ask most Ontarians about Joe Flaherty

    Robin - Ask most Ontarians about Bob Rae. He'll probably get in during the by-election, so what does that tell you about Ontarians????
    Rae Days are here again!!!!!!
  33. Gerry Pankhurst from westport ontario, Canada writes: There will be a mass banquet in the next few days to which the media and most of the today's contributors will be invited. It will be held in honour of the predicted up-coming election resulting from rejection of the budget. The menu will feature crow. It will be hosted by the Westport Oracle.
  34. George Bishop from Fergus, Ontario, Canada writes: The Tories can give all the Money they wish to the Auto(Domestic) Industry, but they cant force Canadians to buy the 'crap' that the Domestics produce, its a losers game all round.
  35. prospector from blackfly country from Canada writes: Oh Canada from Bramledesh, Canada writes: I thought our economy was ' As solid as the Canadian shield' looks like the coffers will soon be empty

    As soon as they're empty - that's what educated people call a balanced budget!!!!
  36. D Le5 from Canada writes: So sad to see Flaherty act so immature taking swipes at the Ontario Liberals. Time to grow up and do your job just once without trying to blame someone else. Add to that the attempt to pre-paint any Opposition amendment as leading Canada into deficit is a way to rally the slow minded who he believes that if a lie is said enough it will be viewed as the truth.
    If the budget is as good as their party say it is then there is little need for negative spin ahead of the budget.
    It is good to see that the CPC finally realized that they might need some votes from Ontario and are trying to meet their needs for a change. But Ontarians no doubt remember the past 2 years of virtual isolation in having a voice at the table. Quebec got their pre-provincial election buy off from the CPC and so the time has come to try and pretend to care about the largest Provinces people. Harper clued in that he really can't ignore the largest population (and thus largest voter base) to take over Canada.
    Riding the train of 'we hate Ontario' has bought votes in the rest of Canada but will come back to bite him when an election rolls around (even of it means voting for Dion the under performer).
  37. Roop Misir from Toronto, Canada writes: The budget shoes seem more costly refurbished than new!
  38. Chris Lalonde from Singapore writes: doctor business from vancouver, Canada ... Your idea that we should let the Canadian auto industry should die is 'asinine'. Manufacturing alone, it represents 12% of Canada's GDP and employs over 130,000 tax-paying Canadians. It's not just the ' small government 'conservatives' that are intervening. The Liberal McGuinty gov't has plowed in hundreds of million dollars of grants to various auto makers. Innovation & technology is key to car pollution problems (ex. hybrid cars).

    I do agree that some money should be spend on upgrading transportation structures. This is both better for the environment and the economy.
  39. mike sty - from Canada writes: Fred Draper from Kingston, Canada writes:

    Flaherty never ran a deficit and never will!
    --------------------------

    Conservatives, angry little liars.

    Check out Flaherty's 'bright ideas budget tour' April 2002(budget 2002-2003)

    Cons still predicting balanced budget on July31 2002

    Cons 5.6 Billion deficit.

    Cons = Liars

    www.fin.gov.on.ca/english/media/2004/bk9-pacc.html
  40. mike sty - from Canada writes:

    Conservative surprises????

    surprises = lies
  41. AU GT from Long Beach, United States writes: Need a little money for Allan MacEachen and Elmer MacKay to help them get their stories right.
  42. A Westerner from Small Town SK, Canada writes: Interesting when the way the G&M phrases everthing like 'so far failed to deliver on a two-year-old campaign pledge to provide some tax relief on capital gains' really demonstrates a bias against the Conservatives. If the Liberals were in power, we would be hearing how they are fulfilling the last of their promises in just two years in power!
  43. Lane Myers from Canada writes: Wow !! Another $200 million for the auto industry. Great news for The Buzzer. I wonder how many billions have been poured into this industry, which makes poor quality vehicles that no one wants to buy unless they are bribed with all sorts of discounts and low/no interest incentives.

    This industry is nothing more than a black hole, with an insatiable appetite for government largess.
  44. James C from Chaozhou, Guangdong, China writes: 'Robert Lepage from Ottawa, Canada writes: James P, where have you been the last 2 years? Harper has been running an on-going election since he got into office;'

    ----------

    that has to be expected in a minority situation. the government can be brought down at almost anytime. and since the conservatives are flush with cash and the liberals are not, the conservatives would be fools to not be on their toes and ready to go anytime.
  45. Al Gorman from Canada writes: No self-respecting conservative would advocate interfering with market supply and demand economics. Subsidies and a protectionist approach to the ailing Ontario auto industry will accomplish nothing positive. The government may as well pi$$ this money down the drain. This action defines the fundamental problem with political parties of all stripes today: principle consistently gets thrown out the window to buy votes. Political leaders have an aversion to doing what is right and allowing the electorate the judge them based on the values and principles they demonstrate.
  46. A A from Canada writes: I just hope propping up the auto industry does not mean keeping Hargrove happy. It probably is for Hargrove because Toyota & Honda are actually doing ok.
  47. R. Carriere from Maritimes, Canada writes:

    Good Morning;

    Perhaps someone can help me out here with answers to some nagging questions that come to the forefront.

    $200 million for the auto industry........that is quite a broad statement and a heck of a lot of money which demands some questions to be answered.

    What companies receive this money?
    What is the criteria?
    Are these loans or grants? If grants, then why?
    What are the accontability mechanisms?
    What will this money accomplish in the short and medium terms?
    What exactly is this funding to be used to accomplish?
    Is this a short term band-aid, with these same needs re-occuring in a few months?
    Will this money be used for wages-equipment-new 'green' technology?

    These are just a few questions that come to mind....

    Because this is a huge amount of our tax dollars, these questions and many more should be answered with clarity.........or does the government just go about writing checks to whomever yells the the loudest?

    $200 Million could also buy the wages of many doctors and nurses or medical equipment such as CT scan or MRI machines......

    .
  48. D K from Canada writes: Aww the poor auto industry. Must suck when nobody buys your product. Way to pick and choose.
  49. Jim Z from Canada writes: The billion dollar infrastructure will benefit the cities of Toronto, Montreal and Vancouver. Another hand out to the auto industry. What about the forestry industry and the many small forestry towns that have been decimated. Once again it is all about placing the money where you can get the most votes. Damn the torpedos and full speed ahead.
  50. The Skipper from Canada writes: Bottom Line - we are in a 'Recession,' so no propping up will help this dinasour of an industry. Nobody wants to buy GM or Ford products. They are too expensive given that we are in a 'RECESSION!'
  51. Shawn Bull from Canada writes: I look forward to a strong Conservative budget. A budget that will help Canada through tougher economic times.
  52. Chris Lalonde from Singapore writes: It's worthwhile to invest in the auto-industry. One thing to note is that the industry changing. While the Big 3 are in trouble, the Japanese plants in Canada are doing well and have expanded in recent years.

    Again, some stats...
    - 12% of Canada's GDP,
    - employs over 130,000 in Ontario alone
    - $79 bil. in shipments
  53. Typical Toronto Voter from I know what to think because the Globe tells me!, Canada writes: It doesn't matter how well Harper runs this country, we in Toronto know to vote Liberal, because the Globe tells us to, and because our great-granddaddies did!
  54. Steve D from St. John's, Canada writes: A Westerner from Small Town SK, Canada writes: 'Interesting when the way the G&M phrases everthing like 'so far failed to deliver on a two-year-old campaign pledge to provide some tax relief on capital gains' really demonstrates a bias against the Conservatives.'

    That reminds me. At 7 am this morning I told my wife that I would take out the garbage. As of 7:01 am I had still 'so far failed to deliver' on that promise. To make a long story short by 7:10 am, I had indeed delivered on that promise. It might have gotten done sooner if I didn't have a couple fo kittens nipping at my laces while I was tying my boots. I guess we all have our minor aggravations but it all gets done if you have the right kind of guy on the job. You know, the type of guy who knows how to set and deliver on priorities.

    One final point. Why all the speculation and noise about a budget that is getting presented TONIGHT? Why not wait to hear whats in it before you make judgments? Mr. Layton, I'm waiting. That wasn't rhetorical.
  55. J B from Canada writes: Um, why is Flaherty looking at his shoe?
  56. Wok Tau Fact from Canada writes: Hello. I am new to Canada. This Harper fellow seem like a nice man. I will vote for him when I am joining Canada.

    Canada, you have nice wasrooms.
  57. Steve D from St. John's, Canada writes: Re: my 8:25 post: did I mention we don't recycle?
  58. Shawn Bull from Canada writes: Watercooler Pundit from Regina, Canada writes: There are fangs beneath that war mongering exterior. There are also corporate interests backing that government that are identical to the ones behind George Bush. Stephen, get used to a minority government. You cannot be trusted with a majority.
    --------
    That was awesome man!! You managed to stick almost every classic Liberalsmear on the Conservatives. I was dissapointed that you did forget the hidden agenda bit however.

    However you did get the basic points across: Harper has fangs, is a warmonger, the wonderful Bush/Harper tie in and corporate backing (because we all know corporations bad, little man good).

    Liberals across Toronto would be proud of ya!!
  59. Daryn Dyer from Canada writes: The following excerpt is (National Post Published: Monday, February 25, 2008)by John Ivison of the National Post, one of the most staunchiest rightwing pro-Harper writers: 'The rising wealth of the West might mean other equalization-receiving provinces -- Newfoundland and Labrador, Nova Scotia, Quebec, New Brunswick, Manitoba and Prince Edward Island -- also receive larger payments, which one estimate suggests could cost Ottawa a further $1-billion. Given that Mr. Flaherty is already flirting with a deficit thanks to the decision to make two expensive GST cuts, an additional $2-billion in expenditures could tip the federal finances over the edge. The second implication is the potential for a backlash in Ontario as the much-vaunted new 'principles-based' program collapses under the weight of its own complications. When the new 10-province formula was introduced, it was also decided to keep the peace by ensuring that no province that received equalization had the ability to raise more revenues than a non-receiving province.' This basically admits that they have mismanaged public finances and have put the federal government and Canada's economic situation in jeopardy. The link for the whole article: http://www.nationalpost.com/news/canada/budget/story.html?id=333897 The thing that really ticks me off, is just a few months ago, the Canadian government was rolling in cash and Canada's economic future seemed safe. If an economic down turn came, the federal government could unleash money to stimulate our economy and stabilize our lives. The Liberals always planed for this kind of situation. In the fall the Harper threw all the money away and now they say we are in hard times. How can people like this claim that they are 'prudent' with a straight face. In Ontario, we've seen this before (Harris) Ontarians will never believe anything this government says or does when it comes to good fiscal management....their goose is cooked, in Ontario.
  60. Uncle Fester from Buttown, Ont., Canada writes: A billion for infrastructure? They already came up with 33 billion. Does he think Ontarians don't pay attention to the news? This is manipulation at it's lowest.
  61. True North from Canada writes: How many hundreds of thousands of Canadians' tax dollars did Flaherty 'prudently' give to his buddies to write today's speech for him?
  62. Sydney R from Canada writes: Isn't this just a gift to central Canada ! Just shows you that, Libs or Cons, it makes no difference. Still propping up the energy gobbling environmentally destructive center.
  63. garlick toast from Canada writes: i used to say to my ont. friends about the collapse of the atlantic fishery,'imagine if the auto industry tanked'.little did i know back then that it would.at this point throwing money at it won't bring back the customers,but it might buy a few votes.
  64. Daryn Dyer from London, Canada writes: Steve D from St. John's: if you are looking to read something that is pro-Harper or pro-conservative, you should read the National Post.....it worships them, while simultaneously assassinating the Liberals at the same time.
  65. Stan L from Canada writes: Jim Z from Canada writes: The billion dollar infrastructure will benefit the cities of Toronto, Montreal and Vancouver. Another hand out to the auto industry. What about the forestry industry and the many small forestry towns that have been decimated. Once again it is all about placing the money where you can get the most votes. Damn the torpedos and full speed ahead.

    Jim Z you can add to that mining towns too.....but that's besides the point. This may be the most extrodinary budget ever. BUT the fact still remains that Flaherty just last week blasted Ontario, told us handouts were stupid, we should cut taxes, he wasn't prepared to prop up anything, Dalton's ideas were just dumb.....he laid down a pretty good rant. Now it seems that there is an about face....so was Dalton right? is he prepared to say that? is he prepared to apologize? If the 'Harper team of the perpetual campaigners' wants to play the game.....they better do a better job of it at least in Ontario becuase that kind of behaviour requires a whole heck of a lot more money to make people's votes available for sale.
  66. Vern McPherson from writes: carrierre the money goes to McGiunty's familiy members and other prominent liberals who buy new carz .................. : )

    try here: http://www.fin.gc.ca/budget05/pamph/paovee.htm

    Here: http://www.premier.gov.on.ca/news/Product.asp?ProductID=650

    .......for starters ...........

    (PS: I'm getting a new Studabaker).
  67. Stan L from Canada writes: ......and BTW, the 'shoes' picture? Their PR person has lost it.....don't try to bring up shades of a strong Mulroney team, becuase Flaherty sure isn't Wilson, by any stretch of the imagination.
  68. Durward Saar from Canada writes: Propping up a dead horse is not good fiscal policy.
    The auto sector has been dying for decades let it die already, how many billions of taxpayer money needs to be wasted before it is allowed to die?
  69. P Martin from St. John's, NL, Canada writes: What Dion will or will not do once in office is up for debate. No one knows because it has not happened. And assumptions, based on nothing, are as useless as the Harper government.

    We do know what Harper is doing and that is as much vote buying as possible. With Harper it is not about what is good for Canada, what is good for Canadians or even what is good for the economy, it is about votes. He cares nothing for anything or anyone else. And his 'economic' policies are as short-sighted and destructive as his government.

    And this potential budget is more of the same.
  70. Frank Enstein from Montreal, Canada writes: At least the budget has no deficit and the debt is reducing. This says alot compared to the situation in most countries, especially the US. For all the whiners here- maybe you should move to the US if you would prefer their situation- or maybe Cuba would be more to your taste and thinking. Remember JFK: Ask not what your country can do for you , but ask what you can do for your country. Probably a too difficult concept for most posters here to grasp or understand.
  71. Watercooler Pundit from Regina, Canada writes: Shawn Bull: Thanks Man! It's not hard to write the truth. I find it harder to lie. Harper doesn't though...neither does Bush. It's all in that secret agenda of theirs. Now, back to your Starbucks!
  72. Vern McPherson from writes: carrierre, ... sorry, it was rude of me not to include our usual greeting. In any case with all the flaherty hooting over tax cuts and his usual lies I thought this might also interest you:

    http://www.cvma.ca/eng/news/2007/article2007121301.asp

    and this: http://www.cvma.ca/eng/news/2007/article2007080801.asp

    You may also want to explore the cmva site especially it's 'news releases' for additional info on the vehicle industry.

    http://www.cvma.ca/index.asp

    Here is an archives Globe article on PARTS manufacturers.
    http://www.apma.ca/client/apma/apma.nsf/object/Auto Parts companies seeking $400 million infusion/$file/Reeling auto parts companies seeking $400 million infusion.pdf

    Parts manf Association site:

    http://www.apma.ca/
  73. Shawn Bull from Canada writes: Watercooler Pundit from Regina: I'm more of a Timmy's kinda guy.
  74. val tonik from Toronto, Canada writes: C'mon Dion, kick this guy and all his buddies out of parliament! Show them the door. This Flaherty person is really bad...5 billion deficit in Ontario is his job, now he wants to ruin the whole country, and so he does because he doesn't give a damn about our country. Please Dion kick his butt as hard and precise as you can. You can do it! Yes you can! Yes you can! Yes you can!
  75. Jake The Snake from Canada writes: Last Budget? Maybe, but I don't think we're going to the polls this spring. This will be a vanilla budget, nothing that's going to piss enough people off to cause an election. I do look forward to watching Layton's clenching of fists and nashing of teeth, should be good for a laugh.

    The cons will last at least another 6 months. Oh joy!
  76. Vern McPherson from writes: Wok Tau Fact from Canada writes: Hello. I am new to Canada. This Harper fellow seem like a nice man. I will vote for him when I am joining Canada. Canada, you have nice wasrooms.

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

    How sweet !!

    And her first job was in a COns war room ..............
  77. A A from Mississauga, Canada writes: Silly bickering aside, I'm very pleased to see the dynamics of this government at works. I think people will keep Conservative minority government just to see these guys sweating at work.

    However, as a Liberal I must ask my fellow liberals (as I sincerely don’t get it), what's wrong with Harper including Dion's amendments into Afghanistan motion? Or, running a balanced budget with no major holes? I&8217;m not too sure even Liberals want extreme reversal on either. Maybe me wrong?
  78. D K from Canada writes: 'val tonik from Toronto, Canada writes: C'mon Dion, kick this guy and all his buddies out of parliament! Show them the door'

    He doesn't have the stones.
  79. Watercooler Pundit from Regina, Canada writes: Giving Harper a majority government is like giving my son the '68 Mustang. I ain't gonna do it. He can take the Minivan instead. He is reckless and will damage my reputation if I give him the Mustang. The damage he will do to the Minivan is likely less and repairable. Do you guys understand what I am saying? ;)
  80. Shawn Bull from Canada writes: Watercooler Pundit from Regina, Canada writes: Giving Harper a majority government is like giving my son the '68 Mustang. I ain't gonna do it.
    --------------
    Harper already has a majority. Dion's Liberals do what ever Harper says. Abstaining and walking out on votes gives Harper majority power....even the Liberal Senate is acting to the crack of Harper's whip.

    Canada knows what a Conservative majority looks like because they have been living in one since January 2006.
  81. Dave S from Canada writes: Harper is growing on me. Sure he's as stiff as they come, but he's such a clever strategist. He seems to have figured out a way to stay in government that I like so much better than Chretien's approach of doing next to nothing and sliding the rest in under the radar to avoid controversy.

    Harper emphatically slams something down on the table that is touted as conservative (but is really pretty middle-of-the-road), and then dares the opposition to defeat it and send us to the polls. Of course, he includes just enough of one of the other party's on-the-record policy or ammendments, that they'd have to vote against their own ideas to defeat it. They'd look like idiots in the process, so they swallow their pride and vote for the legislation or abstain.

    It's simple, and it works. With 2 of the 3 opposition parties being liberal, he's running a microscopic 'c' conservative party. That's close enough to what the majority of Canadians want anyway. He could run the full term unless the opposition figures out a popular way to defuse the approach. For now, he's got them right where he wants them.
  82. R. Carriere from Maritimes, Canada writes:

    Vern McPherson from writes: carrierre the money goes to McGiunty's familiy members and other prominent liberals who buy new carz .................. : )

    try here: http://www.fin.gc.ca/budget05/pamph/paovee.htm

    Here: http://www.premier.gov.on.ca/news/Product.asp?ProductID=650

    .......for starters ...........

    (PS: I'm getting a new Studabaker).

    Morning VERNIE: Appreciate all the info, but before you go out and get that Studabaker, you may want to have a look at these Big 3 engineering marvels.......and that's where are money goes..

    Try the Ford Pinto, or the Chevy Vega, or the AMC Gremlin, or those great Chysler K cars like the Reliant and Airies, Or remember the Corvair with the engine in the back trunk??????

    .
  83. Watercooler Pundit from Regina, Canada writes: Shawn Bull: True, he may indeed steal my Mustang, but he has no money for gas. Oh and Constable Jack will arrest him if necessary.
  84. D K from Canada writes: Caption should read: Look at me! I can put on my shoes all by myself!
  85. No Left or Right Just Neutral from Canada writes: The Oscar for Best Political photo op acting goes to.........
  86. John Connor from Canada writes: Robin Hannah from Canada writes: Has his Prime Ministership brought this country more together? Or is he up to something a little more malevolent.

    Loosen the tin-foil hat will ya? You're starting to sound like those weirdos in a compound in the lower US mainland.
    Get a grip.
  87. K. Little from Canada writes: You certainly have to question the timing of the suddenly found extra $billion and the one or two surprises being offered.

    These are the same tatics the Harris/Eves/Flaherty gang used in Ontario. It turned out to be smoke and mirrors that was revealed to be a true deficit.

    There is no truth here, just a transparent attempt at vote buying.
  88. Green Jerry from Canada writes: No Left or Right Just Neutral from Canada writes: The Oscar for Best Political photo op acting goes to.........

    ___________
    Every Finance Minister does the same photo op every year. You're somehow offended or confused by this?
  89. Bryan Vanderkruk from Hamilton, Canada writes: I'm continually disgusted by the left-leaning media. Why does a budget that is designed to help ailing sectors of our economy have to be presented as a vote-buying ploy. Yes, a minority government will present a budget that is favourable in the eyes of the public, but this is directed at helping those most vulnerable parts of an already tenuous economic state.

    Why can't the media just report instead of indoctrinate?
  90. The Central Screwtinizer from Ottawa, Canada writes: Forget the auto industry. If the PEOPLES' incomes can't afford to buy a car, insure it, and gas it up whats the point of propping up the auto industry, I ask you Jim? Who is going to buy those hulking gas suckers. You should read about Henry Ford while your at it! Also, let me quote the Globe and Mail of January 5, 2008... 'Statistics Canada reported recently that the earned income of the 'average' Canadian -- the so-called median income -- was the same in 2004 as in 1982. After we subtract inflation to keep the purchasing power of a dollar roughly constant, it turns out that median income, before taxes, did not rise at all over those 22 years. Yet during that same time the Canadian economy grew, in real per capita terms, by more than half. But only the very well-paid - those above the 90th percentile of the income distribution - saw any significant increase in earned income; and the higher up the earnings ladder, the greater the growth. What has been going on?'... You seem Jim, its like I said, we a