http://www.liberal.ca/en/newsroom/media-releases/17326_liberals-are-working-while-conservatives-take-extended-vacation
Why is Iggy not leading the discussion on Jobs? Its the most pressing issue facing Canadians.
I know leaders should delegate, but Canadians want to see their leaders with their sleeves rolled up trying to get our people back to work.
I'll be asking that at the live townhall meeting on facebook today.
21 January 2010
20 January 2010
Josh & Matt's Potpourri - The First Waft
Hello Friends,
Welcome to Josh and Matt's Potpourri!
The motto for the Centre Block is "The Life and Times of a country called Canada. Politics, Culture, and More." We feel that we probably fall into the "more" category...or possibly "and."
Here's a little bit about us:
--------------------------------------------------------------------
I'm Josh Bresnahan. James and I were talking over a pint and he asked me if I would write for his blog. At first, I told him that I could not commit to writing a political blog because I don't get as 'excited' about politics enough to be a regular contributor. He said I didn't have to write about politics and that I could write about whatever I wanted! I thought this would be more fun if I did this with a friend because I sometimes lack ideas and motivation. I asked my friend, Matt Outerson, to help write the blog with me. He said something about being an environmentalist...so, I hit him, stole his wallet (there was no money) and when he came to, he agreed!
Let me tell you about myself. I am a 25 year old Virgo, and a proud Brantfordian/Brantfordite. I grew up on the gray streets of Grey Street playing street hockey in an old factory and collecting various syringes. I am currently a packaging engineering student that enjoys baseball, fishing, water skiing, long walks on the beach with my best girl Amanda (we're going steady ;^D) and hanging out with my BFFs. I also spend a lot of my free time helping out as an officer/instructor with the local Royal Canadian Sea Cadet unit (a great FREE youth organization) and playing in a local music group.
Josh Bresnahan
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I'm Matt Outerson. When Josh suggested we partake in a blog together, I asked myself, "What in the world is a blog?" Webster's Dictionary defines blogging as: 'the process of cutting trees for lumber'. I told Josh that I didn't have any interest in leaving my comfortable office setting to chop wood for a living. He punched me in the nose and when I came to; he explained what a blog actually was and convinced me to help out!
Allow myself to introduce myself. I am a 27 year old living in Paris, Ontario, Canada. I grew up in the 'dark alleys' of Eagle Place in Brantford, Ontario, Canada. I'm currently working as a POS/SBT Analyst at The News Group in Burlington, Ontario, Canada. I love music, watching hockey and spreading butter on toast. I spend most of my free time with a guy named Jimmy enjoying the free internet at the public library and I play in three local skiffle groups.
Please don't judge me because I'm tall.
Matt Outerson
-----------------------------------------------------------------------
We have decided on a fun format for all of you:
1) Pick things to talk about.
2) Wait to see if anybody cares.
Please feel free to comment on our work.
XOXO,
Josh & Matt
Welcome to Josh and Matt's Potpourri!
The motto for the Centre Block is "The Life and Times of a country called Canada. Politics, Culture, and More." We feel that we probably fall into the "more" category...or possibly "and."
Here's a little bit about us:
--------------------------------------------------------------------
I'm Josh Bresnahan. James and I were talking over a pint and he asked me if I would write for his blog. At first, I told him that I could not commit to writing a political blog because I don't get as 'excited' about politics enough to be a regular contributor. He said I didn't have to write about politics and that I could write about whatever I wanted! I thought this would be more fun if I did this with a friend because I sometimes lack ideas and motivation. I asked my friend, Matt Outerson, to help write the blog with me. He said something about being an environmentalist...so, I hit him, stole his wallet (there was no money) and when he came to, he agreed!
Let me tell you about myself. I am a 25 year old Virgo, and a proud Brantfordian/Brantfordite. I grew up on the gray streets of Grey Street playing street hockey in an old factory and collecting various syringes. I am currently a packaging engineering student that enjoys baseball, fishing, water skiing, long walks on the beach with my best girl Amanda (we're going steady ;^D) and hanging out with my BFFs. I also spend a lot of my free time helping out as an officer/instructor with the local Royal Canadian Sea Cadet unit (a great FREE youth organization) and playing in a local music group.
Josh Bresnahan
----------------------------------------------------------------------
I'm Matt Outerson. When Josh suggested we partake in a blog together, I asked myself, "What in the world is a blog?" Webster's Dictionary defines blogging as: 'the process of cutting trees for lumber'. I told Josh that I didn't have any interest in leaving my comfortable office setting to chop wood for a living. He punched me in the nose and when I came to; he explained what a blog actually was and convinced me to help out!
Allow myself to introduce myself. I am a 27 year old living in Paris, Ontario, Canada. I grew up in the 'dark alleys' of Eagle Place in Brantford, Ontario, Canada. I'm currently working as a POS/SBT Analyst at The News Group in Burlington, Ontario, Canada. I love music, watching hockey and spreading butter on toast. I spend most of my free time with a guy named Jimmy enjoying the free internet at the public library and I play in three local skiffle groups.
Please don't judge me because I'm tall.
Matt Outerson
-----------------------------------------------------------------------
We have decided on a fun format for all of you:
1) Pick things to talk about.
2) Wait to see if anybody cares.
Please feel free to comment on our work.
XOXO,
Josh & Matt
15 January 2010
Ignattieff: University of Calgary
I encourage you to all check back here in the coming days, our Calgary Correspondany, Matt Mc, was at the Michael Ignattieff Press Conference in Calgary.
Thats right folks, The Centre Block got press credentials!
The article on the visit to U of C should be great!
Thats right folks, The Centre Block got press credentials!
The article on the visit to U of C should be great!
12 January 2010
"Chretien Did It..."
http://www.leaderpost.com/opinion/Chretien+also+prorogued/2431020/story.html
Two wrongs don't make a right.
Stephen Harper was elected in 2006 because he claimed he was different then the Liberals.
Two wrongs don't make a right.
Stephen Harper was elected in 2006 because he claimed he was different then the Liberals.
06 January 2010
Scan Me All You Want
I have no problem being scanned while travelling by air. I personally don't view it was an infringement to my right to privacy.
These scanners are too little... almost too late.
If you disagree, feel free to do so, but I think this is a case of where our collective security matters more.
We cannot be free if we live in fear. These scanners will help end that fear. If in fact, as I read today that the Government ordered these scanners months ago, then I congratulate the Harper Government on being ahead on something.
That said, we need more human intelligence. We can't trust machines. I hope that when Parliament resumes, all political parties put forward that we invest in our security services so that we all may be safe - and not rely solely on security measures at airports.
These scanners are too little... almost too late.
If you disagree, feel free to do so, but I think this is a case of where our collective security matters more.
We cannot be free if we live in fear. These scanners will help end that fear. If in fact, as I read today that the Government ordered these scanners months ago, then I congratulate the Harper Government on being ahead on something.
That said, we need more human intelligence. We can't trust machines. I hope that when Parliament resumes, all political parties put forward that we invest in our security services so that we all may be safe - and not rely solely on security measures at airports.
Post #100: An Open Letter to Michael Ignatieff
Readers: To mark our 100th post, I am commenting on the news story that the Liberal Party is returning to Ottawa on January 25th, with an Open Letter to Michael Ignatieff I have further comments after the letter concludes.
------
Dear Mr. Ignatieff:
Canadians want Parliament to work.
We elected this parliament so that the business of the people could be conducted. I've read that you intend for your caucus to return to work on January 25th, even though Parliament has been prorogued.
We hope that Members of Parliament of all political stripes join your caucus in doing so. We pay you all far too much have an extended vacation. This year will be important to our economic recovery, and we need our elected representatives at work. Most of us are not fortunate enough to make 155 000 a year. Because of that we expect hard work to be conducted on our behalf.
I hope that you take this time to stake out a clear vision for Canada. For far too long you and the other opposition parties have stood for nothing - except not being Conservatives. This will not do.
You have accused Stephen Harper of eroding our democracy. But your party and that of the NDP and Bloc Quebecois have done nothing to defend it. You are equally guilty as the Prime Minister. Democracy only thrives when there are competing visions of the future.
The Liberal Party, as well as the Conservative Party, used to stand for something. Each with their own clear vision of Canada. The party of MacDonald has betrayed its honourable tory tradition, and the party of Laurier, Pearson, and Trudeau has lost its vision.
We expect more from all of you, especially you Mr Ignatieff, you have travelled the world, you have seen, especially by comparison to the rest of the world, how wonderful our democracy has been since 1867. Please don't let us down.
-----
Readers: If you agree, please distribute via your blogs, e-mails, etc. I also encourage you to call your local member of parliament, regardless of party, to get back to work in Ottawa on January 25th.
Keep Watch.
------
Dear Mr. Ignatieff:
Canadians want Parliament to work.
We elected this parliament so that the business of the people could be conducted. I've read that you intend for your caucus to return to work on January 25th, even though Parliament has been prorogued.
We hope that Members of Parliament of all political stripes join your caucus in doing so. We pay you all far too much have an extended vacation. This year will be important to our economic recovery, and we need our elected representatives at work. Most of us are not fortunate enough to make 155 000 a year. Because of that we expect hard work to be conducted on our behalf.
I hope that you take this time to stake out a clear vision for Canada. For far too long you and the other opposition parties have stood for nothing - except not being Conservatives. This will not do.
You have accused Stephen Harper of eroding our democracy. But your party and that of the NDP and Bloc Quebecois have done nothing to defend it. You are equally guilty as the Prime Minister. Democracy only thrives when there are competing visions of the future.
The Liberal Party, as well as the Conservative Party, used to stand for something. Each with their own clear vision of Canada. The party of MacDonald has betrayed its honourable tory tradition, and the party of Laurier, Pearson, and Trudeau has lost its vision.
We expect more from all of you, especially you Mr Ignatieff, you have travelled the world, you have seen, especially by comparison to the rest of the world, how wonderful our democracy has been since 1867. Please don't let us down.
-----
Readers: If you agree, please distribute via your blogs, e-mails, etc. I also encourage you to call your local member of parliament, regardless of party, to get back to work in Ottawa on January 25th.
Keep Watch.
05 January 2010
Centre Block: Prorogation Edition
Please note that until parliament resumes that The Centre Block will be a Prorogation Edition.
It doesn't really change very much of what we will be doing around here. Hell, it'll be more then Parliament. Except we don't collect a paycheque.
I was away for the holidays and came back to this, and am still sorting through it. I have an opinion, but I want to refine it for all of our fine readers. I will read and listen over the next little bit and comment on what we should keep expecting in Canada: Stephen Harper Edition. (TM - Me, 2010).
On a side note, I really appreciate how far we've come here in so little time. Our newest contributor Adam David wrote a wonderful piece defending prorogation. Even though I disagree with him, I encourage you to read and comment.
In the mean time, call your MP and complain that he or she isn't in Ottawa doing the work YOU are paying them to do.
We also have a new email address: centreblockblog@gmail.com feel free to email us and complain or comment!
Stay tuned for announcements on new features we hope to introduce in the coming days, weeks, and months.
Keep Watch!
It doesn't really change very much of what we will be doing around here. Hell, it'll be more then Parliament. Except we don't collect a paycheque.
I was away for the holidays and came back to this, and am still sorting through it. I have an opinion, but I want to refine it for all of our fine readers. I will read and listen over the next little bit and comment on what we should keep expecting in Canada: Stephen Harper Edition. (TM - Me, 2010).
On a side note, I really appreciate how far we've come here in so little time. Our newest contributor Adam David wrote a wonderful piece defending prorogation. Even though I disagree with him, I encourage you to read and comment.
In the mean time, call your MP and complain that he or she isn't in Ottawa doing the work YOU are paying them to do.
We also have a new email address: centreblockblog@gmail.com feel free to email us and complain or comment!
Stay tuned for announcements on new features we hope to introduce in the coming days, weeks, and months.
Keep Watch!
03 January 2010
So you want to prorogue Parliament
So the political blogosphere has been abuzz the last few days with the news that Stephen Harper was planning to, and then did, prorogue Parliament. According to pundits, the world is coming to an end and Prime Minister Harper is taking his dictatorial powers to a new extreme. In other words, this is The Worst Thing Ever to happen to Canadian Democracy.
Time for some sober second thought.
Remember that Parliament is an ancient institution consisting of the Crown, the Senate (House of Lords in England), and the House of Commons. Parliament is called by the Crown; the Executive is selected by the Crown; Parliament considers the Crown's business (although Parliament does claim a number of ancient rights. More on that in a later blog post). The Crown determines what business is conducted and in what order it happens. The Crown also decides when Parliament will sit and for how long.
Ultimately, of course, the Crown is vested in the person of the Queen of Canada: Her Majesty, Elizabeth II and power flows through her representative in Canada, the Governor General, Her Excellency Michaelle Jean. In practice, however, parliamentary business is determined by the government of the day. Barring special circumstances (more on that later), the Governor General must follow the advice of the Prime Minister.
Each election ends a Parliament and starts a new one. The 40th General Election resulted in the start of the 40th Parliament. Each Parliament is divided into "Sessions," during which the Government's business is done. Each Session begins with a Speech from the Throne that lays out the Government's agenda for that Session. The length of each Session is indeterminate in Canada (some Provinces prescribe the lengths of a Session, but the federal government does not) and can, to some extent, be used as part of the political tools of the Government. A Parliament could theoretically have only one Session or as many as the Government of the day wants. In practice, however, a four-year Parliament will generally have three or four Sessions.
To end a Session, the Prime Minister asks the Governor General to prorogue Parliament. All business on the Order Paper disappears, committees do not sit, and no business is done until the Governor General recalls Parliament. Parliament, in effect, resets itself to begin anew with the Government's agenda.
So what's the big deal?
Well, let's look first at the biggest part of this deal: this proroguement happens just when the Government is experiencing some serious scrutiny on the Afghan detainee issue and Parliament will not be able to continue its questioning or demand answers of the Government until after the Olympics, a new Throne Speech, and a Budget in March. The timing looks suspicious, and I can't deny it.
But.
The Tories will, for the first time in 15 years, have a plurality in the Red Chamber when the Prime Minister appoints 5 new Senators this month. The Senate is a great patronage tool for any Government and in spite of his desire to reform the Senate, the Prime Minsiter can, should, and must work with the tools he has at his disposal. So, he'll appoint the Senators and gain some political advantage in the Senate as well as keep the foot soldiers happy in the process.
While the Conservatives might have the advantage in the Senate Chamber, the only way they can hope to gain any kind of advantage in Senate committees is to prorogue Parliament to allow them to reset and realign with the new, more relevant, numbers. This is Parliamentary business and would probably go unnoticed without the detainee issue.
So the question at this point is: do we believe that the Government isn't also using proroguement to avoid the spotlight? You bet they are! Governments use this kind of tool to their advantage all the time! Anyone who thinks otherwise is naive at best. We have to remember that this is something that any Government might do and is not indicative of the Tories being any more evil than anyone else.
Is it an abuse of Parliament? No way. It's not ideal, and certainly not great, but it's not an abuse. We haven't even had an abnormally short Session! The Second Session of the 40th Parliament lasted just under a year, which is a little short of the average, but not outside the realm of possibility.
What does give a lot of people pause is the fact that the 40th Parliament started in Fall 2008 just after the election and was then almost immediately prorogued when Harper was less than tactically brilliant. So they're asking themselves "why prorogue now?" While it's a good and valid question, I think that in almost any other circumstance, these same people wouldn't even blink an eye over the prorogation. It's the Afghan detainee issue and the short First Session that are causing the hue and cry across the nation.
I argue that if it weren't for a general dislike of Prime Minister Harper, we wouldn't be hearing a word about a perfectly routine matter in dealing with Parliamentary business.
Time for some sober second thought.
Remember that Parliament is an ancient institution consisting of the Crown, the Senate (House of Lords in England), and the House of Commons. Parliament is called by the Crown; the Executive is selected by the Crown; Parliament considers the Crown's business (although Parliament does claim a number of ancient rights. More on that in a later blog post). The Crown determines what business is conducted and in what order it happens. The Crown also decides when Parliament will sit and for how long.
Ultimately, of course, the Crown is vested in the person of the Queen of Canada: Her Majesty, Elizabeth II and power flows through her representative in Canada, the Governor General, Her Excellency Michaelle Jean. In practice, however, parliamentary business is determined by the government of the day. Barring special circumstances (more on that later), the Governor General must follow the advice of the Prime Minister.
Each election ends a Parliament and starts a new one. The 40th General Election resulted in the start of the 40th Parliament. Each Parliament is divided into "Sessions," during which the Government's business is done. Each Session begins with a Speech from the Throne that lays out the Government's agenda for that Session. The length of each Session is indeterminate in Canada (some Provinces prescribe the lengths of a Session, but the federal government does not) and can, to some extent, be used as part of the political tools of the Government. A Parliament could theoretically have only one Session or as many as the Government of the day wants. In practice, however, a four-year Parliament will generally have three or four Sessions.
To end a Session, the Prime Minister asks the Governor General to prorogue Parliament. All business on the Order Paper disappears, committees do not sit, and no business is done until the Governor General recalls Parliament. Parliament, in effect, resets itself to begin anew with the Government's agenda.
So what's the big deal?
Well, let's look first at the biggest part of this deal: this proroguement happens just when the Government is experiencing some serious scrutiny on the Afghan detainee issue and Parliament will not be able to continue its questioning or demand answers of the Government until after the Olympics, a new Throne Speech, and a Budget in March. The timing looks suspicious, and I can't deny it.
But.
The Tories will, for the first time in 15 years, have a plurality in the Red Chamber when the Prime Minister appoints 5 new Senators this month. The Senate is a great patronage tool for any Government and in spite of his desire to reform the Senate, the Prime Minsiter can, should, and must work with the tools he has at his disposal. So, he'll appoint the Senators and gain some political advantage in the Senate as well as keep the foot soldiers happy in the process.
While the Conservatives might have the advantage in the Senate Chamber, the only way they can hope to gain any kind of advantage in Senate committees is to prorogue Parliament to allow them to reset and realign with the new, more relevant, numbers. This is Parliamentary business and would probably go unnoticed without the detainee issue.
So the question at this point is: do we believe that the Government isn't also using proroguement to avoid the spotlight? You bet they are! Governments use this kind of tool to their advantage all the time! Anyone who thinks otherwise is naive at best. We have to remember that this is something that any Government might do and is not indicative of the Tories being any more evil than anyone else.
Is it an abuse of Parliament? No way. It's not ideal, and certainly not great, but it's not an abuse. We haven't even had an abnormally short Session! The Second Session of the 40th Parliament lasted just under a year, which is a little short of the average, but not outside the realm of possibility.
What does give a lot of people pause is the fact that the 40th Parliament started in Fall 2008 just after the election and was then almost immediately prorogued when Harper was less than tactically brilliant. So they're asking themselves "why prorogue now?" While it's a good and valid question, I think that in almost any other circumstance, these same people wouldn't even blink an eye over the prorogation. It's the Afghan detainee issue and the short First Session that are causing the hue and cry across the nation.
I argue that if it weren't for a general dislike of Prime Minister Harper, we wouldn't be hearing a word about a perfectly routine matter in dealing with Parliamentary business.
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