I agree with Rob that we need to go beyond the normal partisan claptrap and address in a responsible manner what might be the economic challenge of our times. Where I disagree with Rob is in his characterization of the Harper government's communication of the challenge and the approach to solutions. Some frankly which are not obvious at the moment. The Prime Minister has been clear that: - we must work cooperatively and collaboratively at home and abroad; - a balance must be struck internationally between sensible regulatory oversight and trade liberalization-expansion; - that government stimulus is required but that stimulus should not be politically expedient payments that produce only short term results - stimulus should be an investment in long-term change; - that the government avoid creating paralyzing structural deficits (something I see Premier McGuinty is talking about); - in the case of the auto sector that the problem being properly analyzed and options be developed before any cheque is written, if in fact one should be written; - that in Canada the federal government do a thorough and proper review of how it does business so that efficiencies can be found; - that we continue in Canada to improve - reduce - our tax structure so as to make it more conducive to investment and entrepreneurial activity; - that we use our non-renewable and renewable energy resources as a spring board to recovery - working to maximize a legitimate green economy. The Prime Minister has been saying all of these things, and more, since the beginning of November. His message has been consistent from his meeting with the First Ministers to the now concluding APEC meeting. He has not hidden from Canadians, nor could he, the enormity of the challenges ahead. He was even complimented in early November by his arch-nemesis Premier Williams for his demeanor and the nature of his communications surrounding these extra-ordinary times we find ourselves in. Let us talk substance and solutions it is vital.