Southwestern Ontario Liberal

Progressive......Not So Much

2007-10-07T21:07:00.000-07:00

Throughout the province there have been a few ridings which have warranted a massive amount of attention province wide. One in particular being, Lanark-Frontenac-Lennox and Addington, which is were the infamous Randy Hillier is running. Now as you might recall he is the former president of the Ontario Landowners' Association, which is a group dedicated to land rights.

Now, I am someone who believes in getting ones point across, and there are some very definite ways people can do this. Randy Hillier, to me is someone who will get his point across in any way that he can. One example which resounds with me, is when he sent Leona Dombrowsky a photo of a deer that had been shot which had been named "Leona." The Ontario Landowners' Association is a group that is also against the environmental laws, which limit the deer hunt, which some people thought the deer photo would be a good way to convey their displeasure.

I cannot envision how this type of action was ever deemed appropriate. I can only imagine how hurtful it must have been to Leona, who is was doing her job as a member. Some people might say you have to get used to that in politics.... in my opinion no one should ever have to get used to that.

Now this individual who was responsible for such a hateful message wants to represent the people of LFLA in the legislature, someone should have suggested it a long time ago when he decided to take on a cause. Instead of course he has led a very interesting organization, which has done many questionable things, including the one I mentioned above. The very sad fact is that the OLA actually has some very relevant points, they just take different routes to getting attention, like say clear cutting 10,000 acres, and of course targeting an elected official with hate filled messages, that really just point out the fact that Randy Hillier and people like him will do anything to get their message out there.

I have to say this man scares me, for the simple fact that he will do just about anything to get his message across. The people of LFLA have a choice that is very clear this Wednesday, and I hope for their sake that they choose the one that will be most effective for them.

Who knows what idea Hillier will come up with next, frankly I don't want to see what kind of things he will do unless, he learns that his private property rights don't supersede everyone elses rights.

Howard Hampton's Day....

2007-10-04T20:45:00.001-07:00

Although I agree with Hampton that these other issues are absolutely important, we cannot ignore this critical issue which will decide the fate of our education system. I made a comment that was dismissive of the situation awhile ago, and a friend of mine made the point of saying this is just not any situation. This is a plan that would take hundreds of millions of dollars out of our public system, a system which so desperately needs it. The reality is, this is not just another thing for our politicians to fight over. It is a decision that has so many ramifications that people must be aware of and it is the politicians job to get it out there.

Also, just to mention that if Howard Hampton spent as much time fixating on Dalton McGuinty he might actually get more attention. Just a thought.....

Howard Hampton Lashes Out At The Press

2007-10-04T20:44:00.001-07:00

Did he just say there are bigger issues then our children's education......

Random Links....

2007-10-04T11:05:00.000-07:00

For someone who seems so smart, this might not be the best plan of action.

Yup. I bet he does.....He is after all a man of principle.

My latest blog for TVO, on John Tory's annoucement that he will have a free vote.

Some Thoughts....

2007-10-03T12:37:00.000-07:00

The Toronto Star has published this editorial with the title; McGuinty best to lead Ontario.

My thoughts are with Jean, and I hope for a full and speedy recovery. When I read the headline this morning, it struck me just how much of an impact this man has had on my life. He is an incredible force in politics and in Canada, to this day.

Some Thoughts....

2007-10-02T10:48:00.000-07:00

I caught this video on The Toronto Star website- I would say I feel sorry for him, except for the fact that this isn't about him. It is about a plan that has not been thoroughly thought out, a plan that will affect the most important people in our lives; our children. Their futures are not something to be taken lightly.

Unfortunately for John Tory, I cannot see this type of reaction going away anytime soon.

John Tory: A Week In Review Part 2

2007-10-02T10:47:00.001-07:00

WWJD- What would John Do... the perils of leadership

2007-10-01T12:12:00.001-07:00

I hate to point out the obvious, but well I am going to do it anyway. John Tory has attempted to soften his stance, so that it is more appealing to the electorate. While I can see how one might change their mind over an extended period of time, I am not sure Tory is doing that here. He is essentially trying to repackage the product the people have been rejecting, and then trying to get people to buy it.

Sort of like that sales person who keeps showing you various types of the same product that you don't want with the hope that you might buy it.

My favourite part of his talk today was when he said this:

"I have always believed that listening to the people is at the very core of leadership," he said, admitting the policy has "become too much a source of division."

-excerpt from this Toronto Star article

Always back to the " Leadership Matters message" ehh John....

Although, I do admire people who can admit it when they are wrong, I am not sure this is quite the admission the people are looking for rather just an acknowledgment that caucus members are entitled to represent their constituents.

Some Thoughts....

2007-10-01T09:38:00.000-07:00

This is an interesting editorial I read this morning.

I know it is cliche- but this smells of desperation. You own a URL for 7 years, and you only use it in the last weeks of the campaign.

Status: EXIST
Registrar: Tucows.com
Co. Registrar-no: 156
Registrant-no: 115550
Domaine-no: 115550
Subdomain: daltonmcguinty.ca
Renewal-Date: 2007/12/01
Date-Approved: 2000/11/09
Date-Modified: 2007/09/24
Organization: The Ontario PC Party
Description: Leader of the official opposition of the Province of Ontario.
Admin-Name: Chris Graham
Admin-Title:
Admin-Postal: The Ontario PC Party 120 Adelaide St. West
Toronto ON M5H1T1
Canada Admin-Phone: 416-861-0020
Admin-Fax: Admin-Mailbox:
webmaster@ontariopc.on.ca
Tech-Name: Donald Blair
Tech-Title: Director, Information Technology
Tech-Postal: Progressive Conservative Party of Ontario 19 Duncan Street, Ste 401 Toronto ON M5H 3H1 Canada Tech-Phone: 416-861-0020

My theory- Tory is throwing out all stops in a last ditch effort. All I can say is be careful what you do JTo....

2007-09-28T12:30:00.000-07:00

This is definitely the most absurd thing, I have read in my recent memory. Seriously, I thought this person was reasonably intelligent and would pick up the fact that she was making a social commentary. Now, not so much.

Human Rights- They Are Not Negotiable

2007-09-28T11:18:00.000-07:00

So while having a conversation with a friend recently, they pointed out the fact that Stèphane Dion is defending the not so popular case of Omar Kadhr, a Canadian citizen who is being held at Guantanamo Bay. My friend pointed out that he (Dion) should be discussing more relevant issues, not the case of an individual who quite possibly has the blood of other individuals on his hands. I disagreed, and still do.

No matter what someone may or may not be guilty of, we cannot abandon their rights that they are guaranteed as a Canadian citizen. Even if it is so blatantly clear, we cannot just decide to give up. This discussion makes me think back to a conversation with a friend about the Paul Bernardo trial, and how hard it must have been for his lawyers to defend him. The reality in that situation is that we have a system, which guarantees every citizen a legal defense. No matter what those individuals felt, they provided a person they may or may not have liked a defence. We owe it to ourselves, and our country to do this. We cannot tell other governments, what they should and should not do in regards to human rights, if we do not even bother to protect our own citizens.

This is what our country is built on. I know it is not perfect, and we have so much work to do, but it is not reason enough to abandon it. I can think of many cases which I as a Canadian, am ashamed of. We must stand up for these rights.

You Heard What!!

2007-09-27T19:08:00.000-07:00

So rarely do I choose to comment on these matters, but this one takes the prize for being the most ridiculous.

First of all I cannot fathom how this story, is even one when it is based on hearsay. Second, even if these people were at the meeting, I have to question why they would feel it appropriate to talk to the media about such an incident? I thought to find out who was at that meeting, and I do in fact know someone who was there, but I don't want to know what was said. There is such a thing as a closed door meeting, one were people don't actually go out and discuss everything with their 20 closest bffs.

I think this is especially important, in cases like this when an individuals integrity and job is in question. When some one's reputation is being dragged through the mud, you better be damn sure that you got your information right.

Ever heard of the game called telephone...this might just be a bad version of it.

P.s. you wonder why people have such bad perceptions of politics, this might be one of the reasons...

Randy Hillier.. Correcting the Record

2007-09-27T10:51:00.000-07:00

Darren's post over here at his blog Apply Liberally is fantastic. I think Warren Kinsella is getting to our good friend Randy Hillier...

Thank you Randy, for correcting the record!!

I mean highlighting the fact that you have blockaded highways in the 400 series, far more often than three times does lots for your leader's stance on this.

Deb Matthews

2007-09-27T09:10:00.000-07:00

So I have a confession; I am a huge fan of Deb Matthews. She is someone I have found to be extremely helpful, and willing to champion a cause. She is passionate about equality, and works tirelessly promoting it. I have heard only great things about her work with caucus, and her constituents. She also has a great sense of humour, which might be why I like her so much!

She has been doing a blog on her website. I must say I like that she has taken her website and turned it into an area which does more than just provide the expected information, but has something that keeps people coming back.

To Funny Not to Share...

2007-09-25T13:33:00.000-07:00

My friend Patrick posted this. I am almost fell off my chair I was laughing so hard.

Some Thoughts....

2007-09-25T13:17:00.000-07:00

I am a reader of Maclean's, and I found this to be an interesting read.

My posting for the TVO- Election Battle Blog can be found here. I have to say just reducing hydro rates, it is not a long term solution to many of the challenges faced by industry in Ontario.

Opps...Maybe someone should have talked it over with his caucus.

John Tory: A Week in Review (From the Diary of John Tory)

2007-09-23T15:41:00.001-07:00

I really think this one is funny! From Tory Tube.

Some thoughts...

2007-09-20T20:59:00.000-07:00

I found what the National Post did on the Live Blogging for the Ontario Leaders' Debate, quite candid and interesting...

This article by David Herle in the Globe and Mail, I found to be a good run down of the Ontario election campaign.

I agree with the notion of including the Green Party in debates, as I wrote here on the TVO Election Blog.

Ontario Leaders' Debate- my favourite quotes

2007-09-20T17:03:00.000-07:00

“Either way, the Liberals are stronger on education than the Tories, who get stuck with dealing with the faith-based school issue. Call it an early Dalton lead.”
- Toronto Sun

“McGuinty's opening video: Admits right off the bat why he broke his tax pledge. Smart.”
- Dan Cook, Globe and Mail

“[McGuinty] pointed out quite efficiently that the NDP energy position is insane.”
- Adam Radwanski, Globe and Mail

“[I] credit Dalton for bridging back to his message.”
- Guy Giorno, former Mike Harris Chief of Staff, National Post

“McGuinty's making a decent case for his government having invested well in [post-secondary education].”
- Adam Radwanski, Globe and Mail

Thoughts....

2007-09-18T20:36:00.000-07:00

This blog posting is rather enjoyable.....

For fun I check out Democratic Space for projections....

This past Saturday, the Ontario Young Liberals had their youth campaign launch in downtown Toronto and Dalton McGuinty was the special guest. The venue was packed and you could feel the energy in the air as the event began. I must say I am so incredibly proud to be a part of an organization that has such a strong and respected position. As youth we are often overlooked because we are young, but within the Ontario Liberal Party and the Liberal Party of Canada we are given unparalled attention, especially in areas which we happen to know more about, like say youth issues....

(above photo from the OYL event)

Some Thoughts....

2007-09-18T10:07:00.000-07:00

As I have learned in the past couple of years, you cannot make everyone happy no matter how hard you try. You also cannot be liked by everyone, and as individuals we must deal with that. As individuals involved in politics I hope we get that. With that said I think it is quite obvious that some people are feeling a little disenchanted by the by-elections in Quebec and other recent events... then I recall the words of my friend who more often then not provides inspiration to me when I need it the most. This is something that she wrote, I reflect on whenever I am having a bad day.

Another thing that I have learned is that everyone and their dog wants to provide their political analysis, something I confess to. One thing that few people realize is that everything can change in a moment, you may predict that one thing is going to happen but give it a day or two and literally everything can change.

conservative mpp flips the bird in legislature

2007-09-17T13:44:00.001-07:00

John Tory's Broken Education Policy

2007-09-17T12:59:00.001-07:00

TVO Battling Bloggers

2007-09-17T12:21:00.000-07:00

I was asked to take part in the TV Ontario Election Blog for the coming provincial election. There is a blogger from each parties. It is quite interesting, so take a look.

The Blame Rests With All of Us

2007-09-16T20:33:00.000-07:00

I have said this before, but I must absolutely say it again. The position we have placed our Aboriginal population in is not something that we can blame on any one person. We as a society have marginalized a population and we continue to do so. One case in point which I noticed on Friday afternoon was this Toronto star article.

The language used in this article is hard to miss. The type of animosity this language summons is clear. How on earth is a conflict supposed to be resolved if everyone is forcing a resolution that is not agreeable to everyone involved. This situation is not easy by any means, and by going in by force will surely not make it any easier. I do recall an incident in recent memory, I am sure you do as well; it is called Ipperwash. One man died as a result of a series of factors, one I can certainly say was people pushing a resolution (whether that be in the best interests of those involved or not remains an unanswered question) that would not work. So in sum I can say this with absolute certainty, we cannot push for something to occur, that is not ready to happen. When we do we only make a larger issue, and sadly people get hurt. These issues have been around for hundreds of years, who the heck do we think we are, to try and solve them in a minute. First we need to recognize one person or one group does not shoulder the blame, but it is a responsibility of everyone.

Before I leave this world, I hope that we can make some progress on this, because it is one of the saddest things; we live in a nation as great as this yet we have managed as a society to marginalize and degrade a whole group of people.

OYL Launches Youth Campaign

2007-09-15T17:29:00.001-07:00

The Ontario Young Liberals launched their youth campaign today, in Toronto. To check out the website and learn more about the campaign visit iSpeakto.ca

I personally think it is a great way to talk about the issues, which we think are important. Also the website, and whole idea behind the campaign is incredible (obvious bias aside).

Groundless Fearmongering to Wild Accusations......

2007-09-12T22:03:00.000-07:00

Apparently the Ontario Liberal Party have been engaged in groundless fearmongering according to the Progressive Conservative Party..... Quite the statement considering that the PC candidate for Guelph, Bob Senechal was said to have stated the following at a debate at the University of Guelph as written here.

He indicated that Dalton McGuinty once said that the Nanticoke plant is responsible for approximately 1800 deaths a year in Ontario. Therefore, Senechal said, "Dalton McGuinty is responsible for 7200 deaths." (Reasoning skills.......)

That is quite the accusation. I mean in light of the fact that Bob Senechal is a candidate for a party that doesn't even call for the closure of Nanitoke. It does mention rather vaguely within the party platform that it would do something about making it cleaner..... whatever that means.....

To throw around accusations such as this (that someone is responsible for deaths) is not a very good thing to be doing... Also when Dalton McGuinty said that he did not say that Nanitoke was responsible for it, he said dirty air was the cause....

I think someone is going to get in trouble for this one....

Btw. I am scared of what John Tory's plan for Ontario would do to the province I love.

Why the disdain for teachers?

2007-09-12T16:19:00.000-07:00

"McGuinty knows that if he gives the teacher's unions everything they want-to the detriment of what is best for the child- he will have their support. Why do you think he abolished the voucher system? Public schools don't want competition- they want more union jobs. Dumb down the EQAO, make the teacher's college self governing, lessen the need for teacher appraisals and accredidations. None of these increase educational success for the child, but it sure placates the teacher's unions."

The above was a comment left on my blog in regards to a posting I had made. I have ran into this attitude and I wonder where it comes from? I have come across quite a few Conservatives who hold this view.

Now the question is, why the disdain? I have always thought that teaching is an incredibly honourable profession, and I believe that many of my teachers have a direct result on the person that I am today. I also think that teachers are under appreciated for all the work that they do and the impact that they have on children, and society as a result. So why is it that some Conservatives seem to have such a blatant disdain for the profession?

What would John Tory or Howard Hampton do??

2007-09-11T23:37:00.000-07:00

I have always wondered what John Tory or Howard Hampton would have done if they had been in a spot where they were forced to break a promise. Ultimately- we know what they would say on this question- I would not have made a promise I couldn't keep. For a moment lets think of the situation.

You have committed to doing something, but you are faced with a decision. You must break one promise in order to keep another......What would have John Tory have done if faced with a massive deficit (which was out of your control, I do not need to remind people that it was in fact hidden by the previous government.)

Would John Tory have keep his word on not raising taxes, or his promise on health care? Dalton made a choice, and as he will tell you it was not to increase his popularity. He chose to impose a health premium because he knew at the end of the day health care was what people needed. Our system was ailing, and still has it struggles as many of us can attest to. My point is that John Tory never had to make that decision, but what would he or Howard Hampton have chosen??

Dalton McGuinty did what he thought was the right thing. I can tell you that it will get better. It is not something that can happen overnight, I look at the progress over the last four years and I can see it. As easy as some people make it sound you do not grow a doctor over night. You cannot make wait times magically go down.

500,000 more Ontarians have a doctor though since McGuinty took office. That did not just happen by its self. It takes time and someone committed to the job. I see all the good that can come and will come with Dalton McGuinty and it makes me so proud. It makes me proud that I can help a leader who is so committed to making the province the best that can be, that he is willing to bear the slurs against his integrity, I only wish I can ever be as good and decent person as Dalton McGuinty is.

p.s. If your only thought is they wouldn't have made those decisions I believe you are sadly mistaken..... Of course, we will never know. All I know is Dalton McGuinty did what he thought was the right thing. I know people will agree with me on October 1oth.

Tory Tube

2007-09-10T18:01:00.000-07:00

John got his new outfit for back to school- check it out.

Sticky Notes: Forget Orange

2007-09-10T11:38:00.001-07:00

Ontario Election 2007: What Does Your Ontario Look Like

2007-09-10T11:16:00.000-07:00

Ontarians are faced with a choice of whether we want our taxes to support the a school system based on faith, or an integration of students within the larger public school system. The choice of being able to go to any health care provider of your choice, but limiting the progress Dalton McGuinty and the Ontario Liberal party has made in the past four years, by encouraging physicians, nurses and other health care professionals to work in the private system.

The Ontario, I believe in is one in which we all contribute to. Where a Protestant child plays with Catholic child, and a Muslim child sits next to a Jewish child and they learn about one another from their interactions in the formative years of their lives. This is a choice for the people of Ontario, and if we want to continue in this amazing social experiment that our province is, which brings people from around the world to one place, where everyone has equal chance because we support everyone regardless of age, race, gender, religious beliefs or social status. Our education system which we know had been savaged by years of strife, is now peaceful and there has not been a teachers strike in four years, our children are not losing learning days, or extracurricular activities, but are heading towards promising futures because of the teachers, the staff and a Premier; Dalton McGuinty who knows the most important thing is their success.

Our health care system, which is the envy of the world is on its way back to being healthy. Regardless of how much you make, we have a system which does not deny you the resources. Our vital public services define who we are as a people, and why would we turn our back on them just as they are getting better... I really wonder what good it will accomplish, other than changing the face of the province I love........

Top 10 Reasons Trudeau Might Have Been Jealous of Mulroney

2007-09-06T21:34:00.000-07:00

1. Trudeau's son didn't get to host Canadian Idol.

2. Trudeau secretly wished he had made a deal with Separatists.

3. Trudeau didn't get to dance with Ronald Reagan.

4. Trudeau did get to bring in the Charter of Rights but, he never got to poison Canadians with tainted tuna.

5. Trudeau didn't get to clean out the government furnishings from 24 Sussex.

6. Trudeau didn't get to reduce his party to two seats.

7. Trudeau didn't get to propose a constitutional amendment package that would tear the country apart, then lose in a referendum on it.

8. Trudeau might have wished he had created the Reform Party and the Bloc Quebecois in one fell swoop.

9. Trudeau didn't get to sell out the country to the Americans.

10. Trudeau might have been jealous that Mulroney did not die first so that he could insult the deceased- because that is so becoming of a former Prime Minister.

- Thanks to BC for the idea on this one.....

Congratulations to Dalton McGuinty and the Ontario Liberal Party

2007-09-06T07:24:00.000-07:00

Ontario Liberals meet commitment

Toronto – With nominations closed, Ontario Liberals are pleased to announce that they have met their commitment with regards to female candidates.

“I am delighted that we have not only met the commitment that Premier McGuinty made, we have exceeded it,” said Ontario Liberal Candidate Search Chair Deb Matthews.

The original commitment made by Premier McGuinty was to run female candidates in half of the 45 ridings currently not held by the Ontario Liberal Party. In fact, 25 of those ridings will have a woman representing the Ontario Liberal Party, and more than one-third of the total number of candidates running as Liberals will be women.

“We were able to meet and exceed our pledge because of Premier McGuinty’s leadership and genuine commitment to this issue,” said Matthews. “He led the way, setting our target without hesitation and making sure we met it.”

“But we’re not stopping here because we know there’s more work to do,” continued Matthews. “We will continue to support female candidates through the Margaret Campbell Fund, and we continue to strive to increase female representation in our party.”

-30-

Contact:
Deb Matthews
(519) 670-2759

Rosemary Speirs
National Chair, Equal Voice

Dear Ms. Speirs,

On behalf of Dalton McGuinty and the Ontario Liberals, we want to thank you and Equal Voice for the work you do. Your efforts to bring attention to the shortage of women in Ontario politics, and your work to get more women to run for political office is invaluable.

Electing more women is a personal priority of our leader, Dalton McGuinty’s, and in May 2006, he set a goal to run women in half of our open seats in the 2007 campaign.

As our nominations close for the 2007 provincial campaign, Ontario Liberals are pleased to advise that not only have we met our Premier’s target, we have exceeded it.

Of 45 open ridings, there are 25 women running as Ontario Liberals and in our overall candidate team over one-third is female.

We were able to meet and exceed our pledge because of our Premier’s leadership and genuine commitment to this issue. He led the way, setting our target without hesitation and making sure we met it.

We are delighted that just over one-third of our team of candidates are women and we know that there is more work to do. We will continue to support our female candidates through the Ontario Liberal Margaret Campbell Fund, ensuring they have the financial resources to succeed and we will continue to work hard for fair representation for women.

On behalf of Dalton McGuinty and the Ontario Liberals, thank you for the work you do.

We look forward to working with Equal Voice in continuing to promote the election of women.

Yours truly,

Deb Matthews

Kim Donaldson

Urban Legend ehh.....

2007-09-04T21:42:00.000-07:00

Wow, I thought I had heard everything. I came across this blog posting which actually refers to the time Mike Harris was in office and the damage done by his fiscal policies as an "urban legend." ALW is a very intelligent person, but I am have to say he is out to lunch on this one.

When we discuss the effect Mike Harris and the Common Sense Revolution, we are talking about the cuts he made to funding in almost every sector, not him per see. These cuts are still being felt to this day, and I am absolutely certain that there is still much more to come. People did give them a second mandate, and there are many arguments as to why that occurred.

All I know is that the lack of funding for hospitals, schools, and the decay of infrastructure did not just happen on its own. Walkerton and a hidden 5.6 Billion dollar deficit did not just happen on its own. Mike Harris and the legacy he left, is not just a myth, ask the people who lived through it. In fact, I would suggest you call some of my friend's parents who are teachers...... they will tell you a thing or two about the Common Sense Revolution and what it did to Ontario.

No Personal Attacks ehhh....

2007-09-03T22:12:00.000-07:00

So while browsing the Internet and specifically the PC website, I came across some interesting things, like say a video which refers to the Premier of Ontario as a liar, among other things. Now I don't know about you but I think that might be deemed a personal attack on Dalton McGuinty, on which the leader of the Progressive Conservative Party- John Tory said he would not engage in.

I'm going to try to raise the bar, in terms of the behaviour in politics and the way people conduct themselves in politics."John Tory, The Toronto Star, February 2, 2005

I mean we all know that Dalton McGuinty said he would do one thing, but when faced with a huge hidden deficit (which some people lied about, but apparently that is neither here nor there for them) he had to make a decision.

Now is this type of tactic actually raising the bar in politics (as John Tory said he would do), or is it a cheap attack which is fully blaming someone for something his/her predecessors forced on them?

If we really want to get into it, I would like to point out that when companies hide huge deficits like this, people go to prison. Why not the same for the politicians who so aptly hid it?

Tory Costing, Putting Things in Perspective

2007-08-30T15:41:00.001-07:00

Some Thoughts.....

2007-08-27T21:47:00.000-07:00

I am really excited to see that this type of language and activity (Carbon Zero) has become more regular in our lives. Being conscious of our impact on the earth is good, and will benefit many including ourselves...

They thought they had something good here......except that, well we have to house jurors and other people doing their civic duty somewhere. I have a thought: we could all sleep at John's house next time we need a place to crash....

By the way, I may be new to politics compared to some people (I am looking at you, Tory) but you might not want to point out all the people who hate your party..... Who knows though, may be this is part of some master plan- like an escape route for John Tory.....

Efficiencies

2007-08-27T21:11:00.000-07:00

Many parties run on this idea of cutting taxes, which as we can see works. I don't need to provide examples, because like clockwork each election- no matter what level there is one side proposing this. John Tory proposing to find "efficiencies" to me is the same thing. By using the word efficient- the Progressive Conservatives try to appeal to people's common sense.

What they really should say is I am going to take money from wherever I can. It will not come from cutting down the number of post-its or pens, people can use, but from some of the very services we expect our government to provide. Like doctors and nurses, and hospital equipment and infrastructure....teachers and textbooks and water and meat inspectors. The very things we take for granted, the services that are necessary to our lives. Whenever I think of cuts, I remember Walkerton, and the cuts that can still be felt across the province, in health care, in education, in every aspect of our lives. So they call it "efficiencies" I call it cuts....

Paint it Red

2007-08-25T21:08:00.000-07:00

The Ontario Young Liberals has just launched its new election website; Paint it Red. The website provides voting information, as well as details about how to get involved with your Liberal candidates. Check it out.

Education in Ontario

2007-08-25T19:19:00.000-07:00

One of the reasons, perhaps the reason I am involved in politics is because I want the people around me to live in a world were people feel welcomed and at home. Sometimes I catch glimpses of the type of intolerance that is so sickening, that it can be debilitating. Just think of how racism and intolerance feels, I do not want that to be a part of our Ontario. Everything I do, and will do for the rest of my life is to work towards that goal, to eliminate intolerance.

I believe that there needs to be more integration, not less. How are we to build a society of tolerant individuals if our children are never allowed to play with one another, to know one another, to grow up together? I believe a public education system is one way, in which we learn and understand one another.

Besides the bureaucratic and legal reasons that arise as a result of this religious school funding, I cannot conceive a way in which this will benefit our province.

Although I can see how this decision to fund one separate school system and not another is seen as unfair, the decision was made in the formation of the Constitution which lead to the Confederation of the Canada. The means the decision became a part of the document that Canada became a nation under. Not only has this been entrenched in our society, it has withstood legal challenges (Adler vs. Ontario 1996) as well.

I believe that there should not be funding for religious schools, and it is a ploy to garner votes. I cannot blame the individuals who support this for the purpose that it does bring forth questions of fairness. The point that I have been considering is that if they were really serious about equality and the multiculturalism, they would argue that the Constitution should be reexamined specifically Section 93, which guarantees these rights.

Why have this not be brought forth, I would hazard a guess that Constitution talks bring about serious consequences that would far exceed the benefits gained from promising to provide funding. Or would they prefer that funding be taken from the public system, so that we can fund a fully segregated system? Either this plan was not well thought out, or the Progressive Conservative Party sees this as the future of the province of Ontario, which to me is a much scarier thought.

This is not the future that I envision for our province.

2007-08-23T07:22:00.000-07:00

Stéphane Dion's long march forward
LAWRENCE MARTIN
Globe and MailAugust 23, 2007

Members of Stéphane Dion's team looked to be in better spirits the other day. A poll showed the Liberal leader's low approval numbers finally inching upward.

The Opposition leader has been traversing the country on his so-called Summer of Ideas tour - a series of roundtables on themes such as culture, manufacturing, health.

You'd never know it. The tour, except in local markets, hasn't captured much attention. But for Mr. Dion, staying out of the headlines might not be such a bad development. He attracted a good share of negative publicity before - and he did so again this week with his ill-advised claim regarding water exports to the United States. Better for him to stay below the radar. Increase credibility this way, and then, leadership stabilized, begin his inevitable march forward.

Inevitable?

There's a theory about Stéphane Dion. It is that in anything he does, he starts slowly, alighting in all his paleness without impact. He comes across as not just absent-minded, but absent-bodied as well: a ghost in clothes.

But with time, so the theory goes, the essence of the man emerges, credibility is gained and Stéphane the Obscure - more relentless than anyone you've ever known - hardens into an immovable force.

The idea that there is a sense of inevitability about him was given some credibility in his unanticipated triumph in the Liberal leadership race. He started so far back. He looked listless in comparison to the star candidates. His campaign never seemed to take off. But we all know what happened.

It's not the only evidence Dion optimists muster to support their theory. They look at his whole career.

He started as an academic at the University of Montreal on a quiet note, very much in the shadow of his famous father, Léon Dion. But in time he gained respect with students, in scholastic chambers and, surprisingly, in the media's eye. Despite a receding television presence, the young Dion's intellect won out over his charisma deficit. He became an on-air power, a lead tribune for the federalist cause.

He was invited to Ottawa, where, after arriving on a bus in 1996, his challenge as unity minister was to take on the god of Quebec, Lucien Bouchard. Few gave the willowy academic a chance. Many chuckled at the prospect. But Mr. Bouchard didn't know what he was up against. In trenchantly reasoned letters, Mr. Dion undercut the logic of Lucien and his separatist brethren. That was step one. Step two was to challenge, with Jean Chrétien, the legitimacy of the sovereigntist cause in the Supreme Court. Step three was to boldly move forward with the court decision and enshrine the Clarity Act. Step four, in January of 2000, was the resignation of Lucien Bouchard.

The ghost in clothes was putting a lot of fibre on display. But another test awaited him. The young, power-drunk advisers surrounding new Liberal leader Paul Martin convinced him he should push aside long-time party stalwarts - even the likes of Stéphane Dion. Citing a need for party renewal, Mr. Martin dropped him from cabinet. That was punishing enough. Then the Martin team tried to drum him out of politics altogether by signalling they would challenge his nomination in his Montreal riding. Not taking the hint, Mr. Dion stood his honourable ground. He won his nomination, he got re-elected and he was so steely, he demonstrated such unbreakable character through it all, that Paul Martin had little choice.

He put him back on his cabinet team. Reinstated, Mr. Dion, knapsack in tow, continued the quiet march upward. If neither Lucien Bouchard nor Paul Martin's crew could stop him, the big guns in the leadership race surely could.They failed, and now it's on the biggest stage of them all where the non-presence of Stéphane Dion tries to find shape and form. As in his other endeavours, many observers wrote him off in the early going. But he has survived the early assaults and is edging forward.

His unimpressive exteriors haven't changed. He still affects a distant quizzical air, like he is not quite with it. But what has always made him unexpectedly successful are his internal qualities: Integrity. Unbending resolve. Power of intellect. Depth of character.Whether they will work for him as Liberal leader is an open question. Façades don't seem to sell in politics to the degree they used to. People are starting to look more at what's underneath. If that's the case, there could well be some truth to the idea of the inevitability of the Liberal leader.

Thanks to DB for sending it to me.

Waiting.....

2007-08-19T22:29:00.000-07:00

Is it just me, or should we be seriously concerned that The PC's have not released a costed platform. As a partisan I am obviously bias, but I do have serious concerns about their platform. As a voter, I just have to wonder where the money is going to come from to pay for all these campaign promises.

Sometimes I wonder...

2007-08-19T21:58:00.000-07:00

"Calgary MP Diane Ablonczy told The Canadian Press yesterday that women can rise up the political ranks more quickly than men, but generally, politics is not a career that interests many women."

Ummmm, isn't she a part of a cabinet that has a percentage of women that is less than a quarter. The top ehh.......

I was actually thinking that, while we all generally agree that there is a need to encourage women to get involved in politics and break down the barriers, if it affects the chances of someone we know it, we are less likely to support it. So a question I would like to ask is; if it came down to an individual you knew and a woman being appointed; who would you chose?

This has also come up in regards to other groups who are less likely to be involved; including minorities, and youth. In my opinion there will always be someone who is affected adversely by an appointment, but I believe the benefits can outweigh the costs, for now anyway. It is also in my opinion not a permanent solution, but it is a positive step forward on the path to equality.

Some Thoughts....

2007-08-17T07:33:00.000-07:00

After all my talk about women in politics, and why they are not as likely to get involved, sadly enough something happens that proves this.

Nereen Virgin who is the Liberal candidate in Hamilton East, Stoney Creek was recently referred to in an article by Kevin Werner, a regional reporter for Hamilton Community News
, as a "tar baby."

I don't even think that I have to point out the significance of calling a woman of colour a "tar baby." It is offensive and degrading, and I cannot believe that the writer even thought that using that as a reference was appropriate. I know the story of B'rer Rabbit, and although the author may have thought he had a point by using this as a reference, it is completely lost amidst the fact that he called a woman of colour, a "tar baby." I am actually straining to think of how this reporter thought this was by any means appropriate.

The term itself keeps resounding in my head, I am actually disgusted by it and the fact that this woman who has taken on a role to help in her community and now is running for office has to listen to this slur.

There are things that happen that just make me stop in my tracks, and think what the hell is wrong with people, this is one of them.

22%

2007-08-17T07:05:00.000-07:00

So I have been giving the cabinet shuffle in Ottawa some thought of the last few days. As I am sure most of you have anticipated; I am very worried about fact that cabinet is only 22% female. Now some of you might not think that to be that worrisome, but to me Stephen Harper is effectively saying that he doesn't have qualified women in his caucus, well no more than what he has selected to be in his cabinet.

Now I bet someone is thinking to themselves, "Well what about all the qualified men?" Should a qualified man be looked over because women are underrepresented? In my opinion this should not happen, but as a good friend said to me recently "Our idea of meritocracy is messed up!" She used other words, but the point she was making is that our notion of meritocracy is not by any means fair because it excludes so many people who otherwise would be included.

The thing that incenses me the most is when people use this as an excuse for why so many women are excluded from so many positions; because they are not qualified. Well to me that is not the case what so ever, and I implore them to look at the women they know and ask why they would think that.

Clarification

2007-08-08T16:00:00.000-07:00

I feel I need to clarify myself on an earlier posting. When I posted this piece, I was attempting to put it into perspective. The fact that the Progressive Conservatives would cry foul over year end grants being given to community groups, when during their term in office, money went to hunting and fishing groups in Mike Harris's riding, to me is a little hypocritical to say the least. Throughout the Spring, the Opposition parties maligned the intent of the process, including calling into question the integrity of groups.

It was intended as a piece which would put things in perspective.

I, just as much as anyone will admit that the process was bad, but in my opinion there was nothing wrong with the intent behind the grants and to imply that maligns all the groups who received grants. Mike Colle took accountability for that, and he resigned as a result of these findings. No one in my opinion should find any fault with the groups, because they are all more than deserving of receiving this money. I mean teaching Afghan women English is important, right, ensuring that youth have a place where they can go and engage with one another rather than say, getting involved with violence and crime.....

Who knows though... I guess we as a party see the value of making all Ontarians feel at home in their home.

This does not in any way make the process right, but let me tell you I am saddened by anyone who would call into question, these groups who did nothing more than want to help build a stronger community.

Live News Update with Ben Chin

2007-08-08T12:30:00.001-07:00

Daily Canuck...

2007-08-08T08:24:00.000-07:00

I was surprised to see that the Daily Canuck has been changed to My Green Element, which is a blog devoted to;

Our main focus will be the climate crisis and what businesses are doing — and should do — to help solve the problem. Our particular interest is the communications field, so there will be plenty on that and we also may stray into all kinds of aspects of the environmental debate.

I look forward to reading it in the future.

Some Thoughts....

2007-08-08T07:58:00.000-07:00

I am dying to know what Stelmach means by a "pragmatic" approach to climate change. Read the rest of the article here.

I found Pollution Watch to be an interesting site for information on who is emitting. Also check out this press release from the same organization.

In my opinion, everyone needs to do something about climate change, and I am always at awe when there are so many individuals taking a serious role in the future of our planet, yet some politicians continue to drag their feet. I do understand the economic concerns, but there is this great oppurtunity to take part in the future of sustainable development and we will lose out unless we act soon.

HPV

2007-08-02T07:32:00.000-07:00

I am really glad to see that the McGuinty Government has taken a positive step in protecting women at the earliest opportunity from HPV (Human Papillomavirus Virus), which is the leading cause of cervical cancer.

To read more, check out the Toronto Star article.

Admittedly, this was not something I was all that aware of a few years ago but now that I am, I can definitely see the merits of vaccinating young woman as a means of prevention. To learn more about it I encourage you to read more here on the McGill webpage, where they have posted study results. Understandably some will argue that there is no reasons to provide vaccination for all young women in grade eight, but I have to wonder why they would be opposed to preventing individuals from contracting HPV, and quite possibly cervical cancer.

I wonder if it has to do with the fact that HPV can be contracted through sexual contact, which is still for many a very taboo issue. I don't doubt that some would think and even argue that this is a way in which to limit sexual activity, and promote abstinence.

Here's the News with Ben Chin

2007-08-01T14:08:00.001-07:00

The Right Thing to Do.... Can be the Hardest Thing to Do

2007-07-27T07:53:00.000-07:00

I would be lying if I said I wasn't saddened by Mike Colle's resignation from cabinet. He is a great person who really believes in making the province the most friendly place for everyone.

One thing the Conservatives will never get is that creating a cohesive community is fundamental to every other aspect of life. They talk about crime and violence, but in reality if they understood the linkages between these two concepts they would know that when you get people to become involved in the community; make them feel at home in their home then they feel they have a stake in it. I suggest they read some Emile Durkheim.

My point is Mike Colle as Minister of Citizenship and Immigration, knew this and saw an opportunity to invest in making communities stronger by helping create safe places for people to interact with one another. Mike Colle's intent is not in question, because we know that he had the province's best interests in mind, because creating stronger more integrated communities goes a long way.

I think it is absolutely unfair that the media has focused on some points, but failed to mention every organization that benefited. The media is not supposed to be our friend, but I thought they would at least do justice to a man who was trying so hard to make everyone in this province feel welcome.Now they know the problem, so they have fixed it.

Mike Colle has taken responsibility for the shortcomings of the program under his watch. It is a hard decision and I can only imagine how Mike must be feeling.

So I would like to say that I think Mike did an excellent job as Minister of Citizenship and Immigration, and he made a huge gesture by resigning. He is saying that accountability is just as important as anything. This is something the Ontario Liberals have been adamant about; they expanded the powers of the Auditor, made it law for the books to be checked in an election year, as well as making all government advertising free of partisan spin. This did not have to happen, but it was the right thing to do.

Perspective

2007-07-27T06:55:00.000-07:00

To the victor goes the spoils Pembroke Daily Observer (On)
Friday, May 18, 2007
Page: 4
Section: Editorial Byline: Kelly, Paul

The Ontario Progressive Conservative party is up in arms about the Liberals spending money.
Seemingly (and allegedly), of a $32 million dollar program a couple of $100, 000 grants have found their way into groups that have - brace yourself - Liberal supporters.

You must be thinking that it would not happen in a PC government. Well, I beg to differ.
At the Ontario Ministry of Natural Resources between 1997 and 2002, there was a program called the Fish and Wildlife Protection and Enhancement Fund.

It was a three-year, $10 million program divided yearly into $5, $3 and $2 million respectively.
It was extended for another $10 million for another period of time.

The first year it ran, it was for $5 million in unspecified spending but the projects somehow had to be linked to the crown jewel of Mike Harris's government - hunting and fishing.

MNR district offices submitted proposals for programs developed with local outdoor clubs - a core constituency for the Harris Tories.

The list was sent to a small group of Progressive Conservative MPPs for "review and approval."
The group was the 'MNR Caucus' and it included several current Progressive Conservative MPPs.

When the committee got the list there were two items they could not touch: $400,000 for Premier Harris's riding - a group dealing with Lake Nipissing - and some $60,000 for an advertising campaign with a high-profile angler with close links to the premier.

To mess with those two projects was to invite almost certain career-ending death.
Another tab was for a fish hatchery in Haliburton (the riding of a very powerful minister, Chris Hodgson). It was another $164,000.

There were some other projects in the Haliburton region that came in for another $50,000.
There was no end to the demands for more money.

The MNR committee quickly went to work 'liberating' money. The first round was a 'rapid fire' round of killing things for what they sounded like and where they were. If it typically had anything to do with conservation or 'tree huggers,' it died an ugly death.

If it was in an opposition member's riding it was killed with glee.

This money was 'Conservative money' and was to be spent on Conservative projects.

I could look at a list even today and tell you where it came from and who spoke to it.

Once the list was tidied up and some money was freed up, these MPPs (and usually they were the only ones who knew about the fund) would come back with their own ideas or those of other government MPPs.

There would be the small boat launch for $10,000 and the larger Lake Erie studies for hundreds
of thousands of dollars.

There would be a new release, photo in the newspaper and a lot of "Me and the premier brung you this cheque" giddiness.

My own personal favourite involves a current MP and MPP. At the time Gord Brown, current Conservative MP for Leeds-Grenville, was chairman of the St. Lawrence Park Commission.

Over lunch at a Yonge Street restaurant, he mentioned needing money for a project.
I suggested a letter from cabinet minister Bob Runciman to the MNR might help. And, $60,000 later, it did.

All of it was done perfectly legal.

Contracts were signed, guidelines where adhered to, memorandums were approved, etc. The auditor could check it today - all rules were followed.

Was it a 'secret' fund? No. Was it an obscure fund? For sure. Was it a 'slush fund'? In many ways, it was.

So what is the point of all this? Well, the Tories raising a stink about this against the Liberals are hypocrites and, even more so, frauds.

In the global scheme of multi-million dollar budgets - in fact, billion dollar budgets - this is all nickel and dime stuff.

More so, if the Tories were in power they would do the exact same thing. I have seen it done.
At one point in time, the Tories had the wife of a cabinet minister secretly checking on groups applying for Trillium grants.

This is what politics and being in power is all about.

The ability to throw around a small amount of money to groups that support you and that you are involved with comes with the territory. To the victor goes the spoils.

I have no axe to grind with any of these people. I turned the page on this chapter of my life long ago. But this is a clear demonstration of the pot calling the kettle black.

Nowadays with so few people involved with volunteer groups, it is noticeable the people who are involved in the political process and are also involved in local community groups, festivals and such.

So you are never going to get an organization without one link to any political party. So are they to receive nothing? I don't think so.

But to sit back and watch the Tories attack the McGuinty government for doing such a thing is a laughable sight.

Laughable because not so long ago, they did - and would do again - the very same thing.

Questions? Comments? Contact the author at:
positivelypaulkelly@sympatico.ca

PC's Undermine Environment

2007-07-26T07:39:00.001-07:00

Somehow the word progressive just doesn't fit in there.

Some Thoughts....

2007-07-26T06:56:00.000-07:00

In light of recent events, I wonder if sometimes the debate around political correctness has gone too far and that it actually undermines the overall movement. Quite often I am faced with individuals who will argue against my assertions that using politically correct language is about being inclusive.

As a realist, I worry that being so militant about language is undermining the purpose of the movement. I feel at times we alienate the very people we want to include because as a group we are not always understood. As a feminist, I know I cannot give up the fight for equality because it is something I know is possible, and absolutely worthwhile if not for our generation but for our children.

I am not saying this because I am a Liberal, even though recent events have prompted me to think thoroughly about them. I am saying this because I know more than anything as a movement we must recognize our weaknesses in order to strengthen them.

I know Warren, and I have the up most respect for him and in my opinion he did the right thing by apologizing. I have to say he is one of the biggest supporter of equality that I have met. He doesn't just talk about it, he works for it and I will attest to that.

One thing we must all be cognizant of is that sometimes jokes we consider to be funny are actually offensive to others. Let us not forget what the true gist of the cartoon was, this man (Randy Hillier) who is a candidate for the Progressive Conservative Party is against funding for arts and cultural organizations, aboriginals, among others so I ask you do you think he would agree to fund women's groups?

Sometimes, I read the Globe and Mail comments on articles and I am shocked by some of them, some are ignorant while others are just downright offensive to me. Others, especially in this case can be quite eye-opening especially the fact that the comments made by women were dismissed because we were said to be "to sensitive" about the subject. This is especially frustrating to me and I know it is something we all face, but I know if people really understood what my type of feminism was about they would agree; to me it is about equality.

Overall, I am not saying we should change the way we approach our fight for equality, but I think we must be aware that the very militant response we use is detrimental to our goals. I will continue to work towards equality, but I know that even though my father raised a progressive daughter, he will sometimes treat me differently then he would if I were male. I do not begrudge him that, even if he does try to con me into doing the dishes when I go home, because I know he is human.

I also want people to talk about the other issue, which is Randy Hillier and what he stands for?

Funding for schools in Ontario

2007-07-25T09:00:00.000-07:00

This is an interesting article about what is turning out to be quite the issue, as it should be.

Ontario Politics- A good article on what is happening

2007-07-24T07:54:00.000-07:00

Thanks to my friend Denise for sending this. I do enjoy a great read about what is being done in the country to encourage women to take part in the political process.

Ontario parties chip away at old boys' club However, exodus of one in
five female members of legislature suggests elected office doesn't
easily fit with family obligations

KAREN HOWLETT

From Tuesday's Globe and Mail

July 24, 2007 at 3:49 AM EDT

Ontario Premier Dalton McGuinty is making good on a promise to woo
more females to elected office, with women accounting for one-third of
the Liberal Party's slate for the Oct. 10 election.

Mr. McGuinty has pledged to have women candidates in half the seats
not held by the Liberals. He is well on his way to fulfilling that
goal, with women's names on the ballot in 19 of those 39 ridings.
Among the 92 Liberal candidates nominated so far, 32 are women.

Politicians, academics and women's groups have for years said there is
too much testosterone at all levels of government in Canada. But the
planned exodus of one in five female members of the Ontario
Legislature raises questions about whether the goal of addressing the
gender imbalance remains elusive. Five of the legislature's 26 women
members have chosen not to run in the coming election.

"It's a discouraging signal," said Rosemary Speirs, founding
chairwoman of Equal Voice, a national organization dedicated to
getting more women elected to all levels of government. She sent a
letter to all of the 103 MPPs at Queen's Park on Friday, expressing
her concern that not enough women may be nominated in winnable ridings
to replace the losses.

Greg Sorbara, Ontario Finance Minister and chairman of the Liberal
campaign, conceded that politics pretty much remains a boys' club,
despite the best intentions of many leaders to attract more women. The
departure of so many women at once in Ontario sends a message to every
parliament that politicians need to do more to make elected office
more hospitable to women and more family friendly, he said.

"Over the centuries, parliaments have been male dominated. That is
changing and changing rapidly."

All three major party leaders in Ontario are making a concerted effort
to attract more women candidates for the election, Ms. Speirs said.

Progressive Conservative Leader John Tory acknowledged that he will
likely fall short of his goal of having women make up one-third of his
party's candidates. Unlike the Liberal Party, which allows its leader
to appoint a certain number of candidates, those running for the
Tories must be nominated. Some 34 women have sought nominations for
the Tories but only 21 have gotten the nod so far in 91 ridings.

"We desperately need the presence of more women in terms of the
perspective they bring on issues," Mr. Tory said in an interview. He
also called for reforms, saying the long hours and macho environment
make it a challenge to attract more women to public life.

New Democrat Leader Howard Hampton said half of his party's slate will
be female. The party is nominating record numbers of women, but their
chances of winning in many ridings are slim.

Women now hold 25 per cent of the 103 seats in the provincial
legislature; redistribution in the election will expand the number to
107. This is slightly better than the House of Commons, where women
make up just 21 per cent of members. (Federal Liberal Leader Stéphane
Dion has promised that one-third of his party's slate in the next
election will be female.)

In Ontario, women have won five of the nine by-election races since
2003, including three for the Tories.

But the fact that five women are not running for re-election raises
the age-old question of whether family obligations continue to hold
back mothers.

Veteran New Democrat Shelley Martel was the first to announce her
retirement from politics after 20 years to spend more time with her
two young children.

Cabinet minister Marie Bountrogianni and Liberal backbencher Jennifer
Mossop also cited family reasons when they said they were not seeking
re-election.

Cabinet minister Mary Anne Chambers said health concerns prevent her
from running. Liberal Judy Marsales plans to call it quits on Wednesday.

Ms. Bountrogianni, the mother of two teenagers, acknowledged that
politics is more challenging for women. But she said women considering
a career in politics should think of it as a term of service. She was
an MPP for eight years.

Ms. Mossop, who has a four-year-old daughter, said she agonized over
her decision to leave politics after one term. But she said she should
not be held up as an example of why politics is not for women.

"I'm a poster child for my juncture in life," she said. "I'm half a
modern couple and I've got my priorities straight."

Some thoughts...

2007-07-23T15:32:00.000-07:00

It comes as no surprise to me that Harper would delay the by-elections in Ontario for as long as he can. Unless of course, some poll shows his popularity might rise and then well who knows....

Ohh my, I thought Steve had gotten rid of all those people who believed in climate change. On the more serious side it is really important that this type of research does occur in our country.

I really hope this editorial was not intended to be an argument against using aggresive measures to reach equality, because it is horrible. It is not acceptable to say just because a woman cannot bridge that gap she might as well give up. Is it fair if she feels compelled to make a decision because she is faced with the reality that she will never be compensated for her time like her male counterpart.... Furthermore just because it is taking a long time (read fifty or more years) does not mean it is not worth it.

Dalton McGuinty: Liberals Working

2007-07-20T07:56:00.001-07:00

This is the Dalton McGuinty I know and love. He is such an incredible man who really cares about making our province a better place. I am obviously biased, but I have never met a person who is truly as decent and caring and amazing, as Dalton is.

Liberal Spy #6

2007-07-18T08:08:00.001-07:00

This is the video from an event that I posted on earlier.

Toronto taxation

2007-07-18T07:40:00.000-07:00

So now that the City of Toronto has been given the ability to tax, what is it to do..... Naturally not use the power but instead call on all the provincial parties to one up each other. Smart move on their part, but honestly if you REALLY need the extra revenue then you would just do it. Simple as that.

Instead they have not taken responsibility for implementing the new powers that they have been given. I understand how this is a hard decision, because you never as an elected member want to increase taxation, but sometimes you just have to do it in order to do the right thing. So I am extremely hesitant to believe that this extra revenue is needed so desperately (at least in their minds.) I understand that there are going to be shortfalls when it comes to revenue, but the reality is sometimes you just have to make a tough decision and accept your political fate.

John and his best friend Randy

2007-07-17T08:05:00.000-07:00

Ohhh, my is it true?? John Tory is actually seen shaking hands with Randy Hillier... Thanks to Alan Kan for posting this online.

We all know Tory has been making himself scarce whenever Randy Hillier is around (if you don't know who he is then read more here.) He is someone people should know about, he takes the progressive out of Progressive Conservative.

Democratic Renewal

2007-07-16T07:47:00.000-07:00

I have yet to express an opinion on the Mixed Member Proportional system because I wanted to know every aspect of the process and its conclusions before I took a stance. It is not something that is easy by any means, because democratic reform is something that is highly complicated as we can all attest to.

On the other hand democratic renewal is something we all strive for, and we should. So more than anything I think the information should be provided to the citizens in as much as an unbiased way as possible because keeping people informed and allowing them to chose to be involved is democratic renewal at its best.

So to answer some individuals questions, I have yet to form an opinion, other than the one that this is a truly complicated and detailed process that should not be taken lightly. I know myself, that I want to continue to research more so that I can be as informed as possible.

Electoral Reform: Part III- The Question

2007-07-16T07:24:00.000-07:00

The question for the 2007 Ontario referendum will appear as it does below on a seperate ballot;

Which electoral system should Ontario use to elect members to the provincial legislature?/Quel système électoral l’Ontario devrait-il utiliser pour élire les députés provinciaux à l’Assemblée législative?

The existing electoral system (First-Past-the-Post)/L’actuel système électoral (système de la majorité relative)

The alternative electoral system proposed by the Citizens’ Assembly (Mixed Member Proportional)/L’autre système électoral proposé par l’Assemblée des citoyens (système de représentation proportionnelle mixte)

To view more on this, visit the Democratic Renewal Secretariat website.

Some Thoughts....

2007-07-13T06:59:00.000-07:00

These types of things work, I am thinking tax relief.

Rick Mercer can always make me laugh.

The fundraising to pay off campaign debt is actually quite well. The youth who had been involved with Ignatieff's campaign threw a great debt relief party in Toronto, that was well attended.

Headlines

2007-07-12T08:07:00.000-07:00

I know that talking about how someone is upset or there is a dispute within the party makes for a better headline than the possibility that maybe, just maybe there are other reasons such as a personal life that are the factor in members chosing to step away from politics.

Of course, that does not sell, but this does.

When doing a public announcement doesn't quite mean that the public is allowed..... Or so some think

2007-07-11T07:12:00.000-07:00

In this age of information, it is not exactly a crazy idea for people to be present videotaping a press conference; especially from another party. What is crazy though, is trying to stop and causing a scene while doing it. Oppps somehow I think this person will be in a little bit of hot water. An NDP staffer forcibly stopped a Liberal staffer from taping the NDP press conference, as reported here by the Toronto Star.

The story to me becomes less about the announcement and more about the fact that they didn't want someone taping the announcement and went to extremes to try and stop it. I hope this is not how the summer turns out.

Democratic Renewal: the Proposed System- Part II

2007-07-10T06:41:00.000-07:00

After the learning segment of the Citizens' Assembly was complete, the deliberations began. The file report by the Assembly can be found here.

Essentially the Citizens' Assembly has suggested that Ontario adopt a Mixed Member Proportional System. Under this system there are 90 members elected through the traditional way (i.e. the person with the most votes wins in that riding.) Then there would be another vote on the same ballot which the voter could vote for the political party of their choice. There would be a total of 39 list members that would be elected.

The party puts forth a list of nominees that they want, they are placed in order of whom they want to be elected first. This can also facilitate the selection process because it allows the voter to see who has a possibility of winning based on their party vote.

This is a quote from the Citizens' Assembly final report which is on the web page ;

“We, the Citizens’ Assembly on Electoral Reform, recommend a new way to vote that builds on the province’s traditions and reflects the values that we believe are important to Ontarians.

The Assembly recommends that Ontario adopt a Mixed Member Proportional system, specifically designed to meet the unique needs of Ontario.”

From the Assembly’s Final Report –One Ballot,Two Votes: A new way to vote in Ontario

The website also features FAQs and other information, take a look to learn more.

Look for Part III of this, I am working on The Question.

Some Thoughts.....

2007-07-09T07:32:00.000-07:00

I completely agree with Warren on this, sometimes we forget what a wonderful place we call home and then something occurs to remind us.

I completely agree with James Bowie in regards to Denise Brunsdon. If you get a chance, you should read some of her work at the McGill Daily and Fuddle Duddle. I know she will be modest about this and well she shrugs off most compliments, but she is a friend that inspires me. She inspires me to do better, with politics and in my life in general. Denise is one of those brilliant people who you love to be around just because well she is herself and nothing less which is the best!!

Democratic Renewal- The Process; Part I

2007-07-09T06:15:00.000-07:00

Democratic Renewal is a term which has really become a part of the regular vocabulary within the political realm. I know amongst many groups we discuss how we can better involve people in the process in a meaningful way. In my opinion if people could become involved in a way that meant something to them then the process would be much more encompassing of our general population. It always irks me me when someone announces with pride that they do not vote because, (insert excuse here.) I know this isn't a fault of their own, but the overall process of engaging citizens of our society.

There are many reasons people do not get involved, endless reasons in fact. One is definitely that there is something wrong with the process. Some people feel that their one vote doesn't count (I can attest to the opposite of that.) So with this in mind (amongst other things) the Ontario Government set about the formation of the Citizens Assembly.

The individuals who make up the assembly are 104 individuals from every riding from across the province (each riding has one representative). 52 are female, and 51 are male and there is also at least one individual who is Aboriginal. Individuals were selected randomly from the Elections Ontario permanent register and were contacted via a letter. Of the approximately 12,000 replies to the letter which asked if they would be interested in sitting on an assembly; 1200 were invited to the selection meeting.

The selection meetings were to inform the individuals of the process and then they could chose whether to be a part of the process or not. The names of interested individuals were put in a ballot box and one member was drawn with two alternates, which comes to account for the 104 members of the assembly.

To learn more about the members, visit this website.

Anyway, the way in which the assembly worked was that the members met twice a month for eight months. The first part was a serious of learning focused meetings, in which the assembly learned of the current system as well as others. The second part of the process was the deliberation process. Now I being the skeptic that I am wanted to know who was involved with the process, specifically in the teaching element. The learning team can be found here, and it is comprised of many individuals including some of the experts on the electoral process, including one from the University of Windsor; Dr. Heather McIvor (so I admit I think she is incredible.)

To any reasonable person this seems like a very thorough endeavor, but because I can only read and talk about it I am limited in the understanding the full process, as many people are, due to the fact that they were not there first hand. The one opinion that I do have of the process, is that it is a complex and a detailed one, which I can see from merely researching it.

Dalton.Ca

2007-07-05T06:58:00.000-07:00

Check out Dalton.ca, it is a look into the work of a man I much admire and a party I believe in. I am sure you will see the greatness I see in him, that is if you don't already.....

Some Thoughts...

2007-07-04T23:09:00.000-07:00

With attitudes such as Warren describes here, it is no wonder some people feel alienated. I recall while I was growing up that there was so much negativity present, that it was no wonder people feel oppressed. I believe the Aboriginal people of this country have been through such horrendous times and the longer we ignore it the worse it gets. Just because you ignore it doesn't mean it will go away.

In my humble opinion I think the Kelowna Accord was a step in the right direction. I also believe the Ontario Government is working hard to deal with an incredibly hard situation that has no simple solution in sight. I think that John Tory taking such a hard stance against the day of action is cause for concern. Although it may work for some people I think blurring the issue into a black or white issue does not allow the actual situation to be viewed in a fair an unbiased way. This situation is one which must be dealt with compassion and fairness not force, after all it is about social justice.

Recall other times when force was used to a very devastating extent. I still remember the day when this occurred and it still saddens me that their is still so much ignorance on the subject. I admit I need to know more. Unfortunately it is not always the easiest issue to understand especially because it is so complicated.

Read this blog, for some good Ontario coverage.

Well Worth the Read.....

2007-07-04T19:48:00.000-07:00

**Although this article is long, it is absolutely one of the best pieces I have read in a very long time and you should take a moment and read**

Old attitudes about women in politics dying slow death
Winnipeg Free Press
Tuesday, July 3, 2007
Page: A11
Section: Focus
Byline: Curtis Brown

YOU'VE come a long way, baby -- but not quite far enough to start filling your husband's ear with political advice.

If we were looking for proof as to why more women don't put their nameson a ballot, it can be found in the June issue of Chatelaine magazine,which features a long profile of Janine Krieber, who is married to Liberal Leader Stephane Dion.

The article -- and the ensuing chatter it prompted on political blogsand discussion boards -- is an illuminating example of how damaging itcan be for political spouses to, God forbid, express an opinion. Womencan do so many things in 21st century Canada, but giving their electedhusband advice apparently remains a major no-no.

And we wonder why the House of Commons is such a boy's club.

Ms. Krieber, as Chatelaine notes, is not the sort of political spousewho simply smiles, waves and laughs on cue with her husband's bad jokes.Not only does the 52-year-old political scientist run the Dion household, she also dishes out plenty of political advice to the Liberal leader.

"This goal to move to 24 Sussex is a big one. We need to work together,be together to reach it," Krieber explained.

This -- combined with the revelation that Ms. Krieber picks out herhusband's wardrobe, right down to his underwear -- was grist for thepartisan mill, unassailable proof for the Tories that Dion is, as they repeatedly claim, not a leader.

But even people in Dion's own party expressed their disdain forKrieber's assertiveness in her husband's political career.But even people in Dion's own party expressed their disdain forKrieber's assertiveness in her husband's political career.

As one anonymous Liberal told Chatelaine: "She has the potential toovershadow him. The scuttlebutt here is that he's being cast in a rolethat's weak, a guy who lets his wife pick his clothes for him and asksher advice on policy? It doesn't play well for him."

As another disgruntled Grit put it, "Many suspect she controls him ..She's the one people need to go to in order to get to him."

Contrasted against Laureen Harper -- who started to use her husbandStephen's last name after he became prime minister last year -- theimplication is that voters will view the Krieber-Dion union during anelection campaign and see a weak-kneed wuss dominated by a wife whorefuses to share his surname.

The worst part of all is that there is a complete double standard whenit comes to taking advice from your partner. When Hillary Clintonadvised her husband Bill during the early years of his presidency, itwas an unthinkable thing. But how many people are up in arms now thatHillary -- in the midst of her own presidential run -- is undoubtedlygetting advice from her husband?

This isn't the first time we've seen politically assertive spousespilloried for monkeying in their husband's careers. Thirty years ago,much was made about Maureen McTeer and her unconventional (for the time)relationship with another prime minister-in-waiting, Joe Clark.

First, McTeer -- unlike any other prime ministerial spouse in Canadianhistory -- continued to sign her maiden name after Clark won theProgressive Conservative Party's leadership in 1976 and the keys to 24Sussex three years later. She continued to court controversy bymaintaining her own career and shirking some of the hosting dutiesexpected of prime ministerial wives. In the end, McTeer's behaviour ledto the perception that Clark was a wimp who couldn't control his wife, and it was one of many factors that led to his dismissal as party leaderin 1983.

Many barriers have been broken down in equality's name during the past30 years. So why does this one remain, especially at a time when thereis a concerted effort to get more women involved in politics? If we wantour elected leaders to make good decisions, shouldn't we encourage themto listen to their spouses?

Politics, like marriage, is a team sport. As much as parties try to project the image of a strong leader onto the public's consciousness,there are few, if any, good politicians who can become successful ontheir own.

There is something very wrong if voters are told to think less ofsomeone who takes advice from his wife, or are convinced that the woman of the political house wears the pants in the relationship simplybecause she reads her husband's briefing notes.

If Canadians really and truly believe in equality, none of this shouldmatter. But the fact that it remains noteworthy in 2007 suggests some19th-century attitudes about women in politics will die a hard and slow death.

Curtis Brown is the editorial page editor of The Brandon Sun. His columnappears bi-weekly on Saturday

Why......

2007-07-03T18:39:00.000-07:00

So more often then not I am asked about why I am involved in politics and the Liberal Party and I usually ramble on about our great policies and democracy and so on. I have come to the realization that although the policies are incredibly important there is another reason.

To me, it essentially comes down to the fact that there needs to be someone to look out for the people of our province and our country, without that we have nothing. We need to have people who ensure that our best interests are taken care of. Sometimes people complain about how government takes too active a role in our lives, but better our elected officials caring too much than too little.

I love the idea that people in our country are taken care of when they need it most. I love the fact that when you are a newcomer to this country, we as a collective want you to succeed. That a hospital would say yes when in other countries the answer would be no. I like to know that a young child experiences the joy of reading, because he or she was able to attend school. I also like that we have a progressive stance on encouraging economic growth, because the reality is different than the dream world some live in. I like to know that we have the most basic things that we take for granted such as drinking water standards there. As a friend said recently; if our government will not do it who will do it then?

I clearly could go on, but I am sure you get my point.

Our government should absolutely be responsible to take care of the needs of its citizens; not just when it is convenient, but always.

Dalton McGuinty said something along the lines of "The truest test of a political will is helping those who will never know that you have helped"

This personifies the spirit of our country, one which speaks to the generosity of our people. I want to be a part of making this province and this country a better place, and that is why I do what I do. I also get to work with some of the most amazing people you could ever meet and that's why I love it so.

Some Thoughts...

2007-07-01T14:03:00.000-07:00

I see that this idea is not only exclusive to Ontario.

Stéphane Dion has been named one of the top 15 Green Politicians.

I am very happy about this. I think that neglecting our automakers would do a serious disservice to our economy and the thousands who are employed by the auto industry.

The Final Say?? I Hope Not!

2007-07-01T13:52:00.000-07:00

A friend of mine sent me this article which was written awhile ago, but it is still very useful and to be honest one of the reasons I am so passionate about equality. Although I respect an individuals right to express their opinion I can only imagine the type of damage this article could do to a young woman and her vision of her future. I truly hope that no one ever took this piece to heart, other than of course driving them to work harder.

The Final Say
By CHRISTINA BLIZZARD

Once again, the garbage debate is heating up, as the U.S. threatens to close the border to the truckloads of trash the Toronto area sends to Michigan every day.

So you'd expect Environment Minister Laurel Broten to be front and centre in Question Period, right? Wrong.

Broten gave birth to twin boys Oct. 5 and is home with them right now. And I've heard all the arguments about how working moms do the same balancing act every day of their lives, so it shouldn't be a big stretch for a cabinet minister to do the same thing. But the fact is, this just isn't working.

A cabinet job is not like other careers. It's 24 hours a day, seven days a week.
It's not as if Broten was struck down unexpectedly by disease or accident and everyone's pitching in to help out. Premier Dalton McGuinty knew when he put her into cabinet in June that she was pregnant.

McGuinty has four kids. Surely he understood that it's not business as usual after you've had a baby. Sure, most women go back to work after giving birth. But most take extensive maternity leaves. Many change their jobs in order to juggle their new schedule. Women who are serious about their careers often decide not to have children. And some women sacrifice their careers -- and their bank balances -- to stay home with their little ones.

First things first. Congratulations to Broten on the birth of Ryan and Zachary. But here we are in the middle of a garbage crisis and the minister is missing in action.

You can't help wondering just what McGuinty was thinking when he elevated her to cabinet. Was it some misguided notion that it would win votes with working moms? Who's he trying to kid? I don't think most moms are wowed by the idea that combining motherhood with a career is such a snap. It's hard work -- and we don't all have an entire ministry to pinch hit for us.
According to a spokesman for the minister, Broten is participating in cabinet meetings and staying in touch through teleconferencing. As a Bay St. litigation lawyer, she's accustomed to moms who get back to work quickly.

Wilkinson filling in "She not easily overwhelmed," said Anne O'Hagan. Broten's parliamentary assistant, John Wilkinson (Perth-Midlesex) is filling her shoes during Question Period. The temp, so to speak.

That would be fine if he weren't fast earning himself the title of Most Insufferably Stuck-Up Backbencher. Wilkinson's response to a question from PC leader John Tory last week was breathtaking in the way it managed to be snotty while sidestepping the question.

He quoted from the PC website and he slammed the previous Conservative government for its plan to send trash to the abandoned Adams Mine pit at Kirkland Lake.

"Your bright idea was that Toronto should take its trash, put it on a train, go up 600 kilometres and dump it in a lake, and you're coming in here and telling us that we don't have a plan?" Wilkinson demanded, adding that the Liberals have an "amazing" plan -- without giving details.
Earth to Wilkinson: You're the government, not the Tories. So start acting like it and answer the question. What's amazing about the Liberal plan is that he'd suggest they have one. If the border closes, we're left with a big stink on our hands.

In fact, the Adams Mine is looking pretty good right now. That lake Wilkinson was talking about? It's a big hole in the ground, filled with water -- and tailings and other debris you find in a disused mine. This is not a pristine beauty spot. It's an isolated, deserted mine that could have solved our garbage woes without having to ship it across the border.

Look, it might give the Liberals a nice warm feeling to think they are accommodating a working mom. The fact is, though, that you can't have a part-time cabinet minister.

I don't want to sound unsympathetic. I'm a working mom. Been there. Done that. Don't ever want to do it again.

But you can't have it all ways. Broten needs to decide what she wants to be: A mom, or a minister? It's up to her.

Women's Issues Committee

2007-07-01T13:43:00.000-07:00

The OYL is always looking for ways to encourage youth to become involved in the political process. One idea that has been discussed lately amongst young women within the party is the idea of setting up a committee that would seek to involve more women in the political process. This committee would involve young women within the executive and the general membership.

Social- Meeting other individuals within the party and the youth commission who share the same drive and enthusiasm, and working towards engaging more women within the political process, and more broadly the drive for equality.

Policy- Developing gender specific policy which would encourage the proliferation of policies which encourage equality within Canadian society.

Outreach- Working with community organizations, to gain contacts and become involved with organizations within our communities, it could be as simple as taking part in a Walk for Breast Cancer, or circulating a notice to interested individuals within our membership. This would be another way in which we can raise our organizational profile within communities, and simply have fun!

Mentorship- This is an element which is hugely important, because we would like to engage the members of parliament both provincially and federally in order to use their wealth of knowledge and experience to encourage young women to get involved. This would be about building confidence as well as relationships. It would be truly a reciprocal relationship, in which young women would be paired up with other involved Liberal women.In both the provincial and federal parties, there are many women who have taken an active role and whom we would like to participate if we are given the opportunity. This would be an obvious way in which young women could learn from actual members who have been through the types of issues that face women in politics.

Overall this would be a way in which we can encourage discussion within our membership, as well as engaging the community, and even perhaps using this as a way in which we can recruit. The intent would be to discuss the issues that women deal with and allow them to meet others who have been through the same things.

For more information please contact Robyn Cassidy.

Happy Canada Day!!

2007-07-01T13:37:00.000-07:00

First off, I would like to wish everyone out there a Happy Canada Day. Of course I do not need to tell you how blessed we are to live in such an amazing country. With all the celebrations going on today, I feel so proud to be a part of this wonderful place we call our home. I have resolved to continue to do my part in making this place the best it can be.

I have been away for awhile, doing that whole life thing but like any bad habit I am back at it. Over the past couple of months I had instances in which I had this burning desire to write about something I thought was important, now I am going to do so on a regular basis so I hope you enjoy!!

Canadian Leadership /Leadership canadien

2007-04-25T11:01:00.001-07:00

Human Rights: Not a Disgrace to Care

2007-04-24T21:13:00.000-07:00

Is anyone else concerned with the words of Stephen Harper in regards to the detainees who allege that they were tortured?

"I think what's disgraceful is to simply accept the allegations of what some Taliban suspects say at face value," Stephen Harper, March 23rd, 2007.

Full CBC article

I think suspects is the key word here. These individuals have allegedly been connected to the Taliban. Also to hand over suspects to such a questionable place really is not acceptable. To feign ignorance and hide behind the Afghanistan Independent Human Rights Commission, is completely unacceptable. Especially in light of even further allegations that the organizations does not even have consistent access to the detainees.

Anyway we sit over here in Canada talking about we want to win the hearts and minds, yet the government looks the other way when the suggestion of abuse is made by a suspect.

In my opinion, the government is doing the country of Afghanistan and its people along with Canada and our people a grave injustice by not being as diligent as possible.

Essentially, Stephen Harper needs to acknowledge that their have been a significant number of complaints and not dismiss them because he deems them to be less than "credible" sources. It's not our job to decide who is credible but rather be responsible for the people we have the onus to protect.

Great Communication....

2007-04-21T22:40:00.000-07:00

"I don't care what she is. She is very helpful. She carries the bags, she opens the door. She is very nice."

Sandra Buckler- Director of Communications for Stephen Harper on his stylist.

Here is the rest of the article.

Call me crazy, but it I were a director of communications for the Prime Minister's Office this is not something I would want to be quoted as saying.

p.s. I know I feel really reassured that she is a good at opening doors and carrying things. Ohh also that she is nice, it in my opinion really validates her position.

Canada's Sexiest Prime Minister

2007-04-21T22:18:00.001-07:00

A friend of mine had this posted online. Very funny!

2007-04-18T17:41:00.000-07:00

The Liberal Party has released a great ad. Check it out on Liberal.ca

I also like this one. I saw it on Warren Kinsella's site, then elsewhere. I do love the internet and how it proliferates things like this.

Break from Blogging

2007-04-05T20:29:00.000-07:00

I am going to take a break from blogging to focus on studying for the next two weeks. I will post if I find something worthwhile, or if my Marxist theory becomes too much. I hope all of you have a wonderful holiday break.

Open House with your MP- or not so open.

2007-04-02T11:49:00.000-07:00

This situation is highly problematic for a number of reasons. Watch the video for yourself and see what I mean.

Why would it be advertised as an open house if it was a riding association meeting? Open house bring forth this connotation that it is an event where all individuals interested are welcome to come. It seems that this is not the case. I can go on and on but I think you get the point.

Scott Ross deserves credit for standing his ground.

Polling Legitmacy......

2007-03-30T00:58:00.000-07:00

As a student of the social sciences, I always ask about the methods employed in research. This newest Angus Reid poll I find to be questionable, because it is an online poll. They claim a margin of error of 2.2 percent, but I really have to question that. I am always skeptical of any polling done online, for some of the reasons below.

My first reason would be that does this poll prevent multiple voters, if so how?

Is there IP address tracking which would do so?

How can the researchers be certain that they are getting 2,056 Canadian adults, and not only a portion of that.

Is the sampling random? How are the individuals that are interviewed chosen?

As you can see none of these questions are answered, which to me as a student familiar with research is highly problematic.

News outlets will of course report this, and well they should. It makes for good bylines but this leaves it up to the reader to differentiate between the research methods which unfortunately not all individuals have the time for.

More Thoughts....

2007-03-29T09:08:00.000-07:00

This was another post by my friend Annie that I mentioned in a previous post. I understand exactly what she is saying.

I enjoyed Cerebus's recent post on "Conservative-Style "Accountability"" .

Jason Cherniak also mentioned that this evening Ontario Minister of Finance; Greg Sorbara will be online this evening for an interactive discussion. It should be very interesting. Jason provides the links.

Stephen Lewis at the University of Windsor

2007-03-29T08:22:00.000-07:00

On Tuesday of this week, I had the pleasure of hearing Stephen Lewis speak at the University of Windsor. I must say he really had an impact on me, and the crowd of several hundred students that gathered to hear him speak.

Some issues he discussed were the pandemic of HIV/AIDS in Africa which of course he has a special passion for. He talked about how gender equality would help in easing the pain on those who bear the brunt of the disease; women. He indicates, quite rightly that women in Africa do not have the type of position within society which allows them control over their own bodies. Asking to have protected sex is not something they are in a position to demand. His first hand accounts are absolutely heart retching because it is something we are in a position to help with. We being developed nations. He also discussed the fact that male circumcision has a huge impact on the prevention of the spread of HIV/AIDS.

Darfur, was another issue he spoke about. He states that the world inaction is wrong seeing on many fronts including the fact that the United Nations (and many nations within it) had signed the Responsibility to Protect. I absolutely agree with him on this. I think it is deplorable that the international community refuses to intervene in the mass genocide that is currently
occurring.

Climate Change was another issue that he discussed, he chaired the first International Conference on Climate Change which occurred in 1988. He described what we all know (minus the select few who for whatever reason do not believe) that inaction will only further the rapid climate change that is occurring to our planet.

I absolutely believe that Stephen Lewis is deserving of all the accolades he receives. One interesting thing he mentioned was how he did not expect quite so many people, well to him I would say he is the one who drew them. I think it is absolutely incredible that he has devoted his life to having a positive effect on our world. People like Stephen Lewis, are rarer than they should be but are truly remarkable and he is someone I admire. You could hear the compassion this man has in his every word, in the tone of his voice. I really hope it encouraged people to take action, I know I certainly feel it.

If you want to learn more about his work, he is Chair of the Stephen Lewis Foundation.

Lewis also speaks very highly of Stephanie Nolan who is an author as well as The Globe and Mail's correspondent in Africa. Her soon to be released book, 28: Stories of AIDS in Africa according to Lewis (who has read it) is incredible. It is due out next month and I look forward to reading it.

Some Thoughts...

2007-03-28T22:54:00.000-07:00

Once again I have been away, I am coming on a time of papers, papers and more papers. So I clearly need to spend less time blogging and more time writing about Marxist theory. Anyway it was quite the week. The Quebec election was definitely a roller coaster ride. When it looked as if Charest might not win his seat I was concerned.

A good friend of mine Annie has started a blog, According to Annie. I love it, but of course I am bias, so read it yourself. She is a very intelligent young woman who has so much insight to offer. Basically, I am a huge fan!!

The University Young Liberals helped the Young Greens of Windsor with their neighbourhood clean up. It was a really great experience and I would encourage everyone to do it. Basically we had a chosen street, and we spend a couple of hours cleaning it up. Afterwards it looked really good!! I personally think it is something that is worthwile and another benefit is it builds community pride. If all else fails it is a good thing to do for your community!!

I have heard this rumour before, I just wonder what the Bloc would do without him in Ottawa...

Mark Holland's Op-Ed piece for the Hill Times

2007-03-21T18:09:00.000-07:00

** It may be long for some, but it is so worth the read**

Why are my two best friends Bains and Alghabra hyphenated MPs?
By Liberal Mark Holland

OTTAWA—One of the things I have come to really enjoy in Ottawa is sitting down at the end of the day with fellow Liberal MPs Navdeep Bains and Omar Alghabra at our hotel to talk about our day, our lives, and politics, in general. Through these conversations, and others, I have made two best friends.I have often been struck in our talks by how idealistic and passionate they are. They care profoundly about the job they do as MPs and work hard to impact positive change. They are both deeply loyal and are among the most principled people I have ever met.

Knowing them as I do makes the last couple of weeks all the more difficult.The recent debate on the renewal of the sunset clauses to the Anti-Terrorism Act had just begun, and like me, Omar was staunchly opposed to their extension. Unlike me, however, his motives were questioned. Certain media outlets speculated that Omar’s position was driven by a personal and ideological agenda. They even went so far as to posit that Liberal Leader Stéphane Dion's position on the sunset clauses was a result of 'ethnic politics'—propelled by people like Omar whose motives, they claimed, were counter to the best interests of this country. I then realized that Omar would always be seen by some as a hyphenated MP—a Muslim MP.

I share Omar’s deep concern for the unequal application of the law, and his fear that the anti-terror provisions, now expired, had gone too far because they put our fundamental civil liberties at risk. I too am passionate that these provisions needed to expire. On the issue of the anti-terrorism sunset clauses, our minds were one. We shared everything on the issue...everything except the personal attacks that Omar endured and the aspersions cast on his motives. No one questioned my Irish or German roots. No one claimed my motive was anything but an interest in trying to balance individual civil liberties and collective security. But not so for Omar, who is Muslim—he was treated very differently.

Far worse was the treatment by the Prime Minister and others of Navdeep Bains. I can recall speaking with Nav about the sunset clauses—debating the risks and relative advantages. Nav was more receptive than I to supporting the extension of the sunset provisions—a fact that made what followed even more disturbing.The Vancouver Sun recently published a news story reporting that Nav’s father-in-law was on a potential secret list of individuals to be allegedly interviewed in the Air India case. Nav was understandably upset and disturbed by the story. I tried to imagine how he must feel; how I would feel if my family had their characters challenged. Unfortunately, the moment The Vancouver Sun published the story, the Prime Minister’s spin machine got hold of it. In Question Period that day, the Prime Minister implied and suggested that Nav had influenced the Liberal Party leader to take a position against extending the sunset clauses to protect his father-in-law. In the following days, several members of the Conservative caucus continued this erroneous smear.

Forget the fact that his father-in-law hadn’t been questioned in 21 years or that the provision had been in place for five years and had never been used. Also forget the fact that the Prime Minister had no evidence to support this slanderous allegation. Nav was declared to have dark motives by the Prime Minister and by the National Post. They insinuated that he was trying to protect his family—that because he was Sikh, he didn’t care about Canadian security. I was completely flummoxed.In those ensuing days after the Prime Minister stood in the House and attacked Nav and his family—after several newspaper columns that perpetuated this falsehood, I tried to imagine being in Nav’s shoes—my family attacked and my motives questioned—all because of my ethnic and religious background.When Nav and Omar organize, it’s ethnic politics; when I organize—I’m just a good organizer. When Omar or Nav express concerns about anti-terrorism measures or foreign policy it’s because of their ancestry or religion; when I question it, either I’m debating hard choices or I’m caving under the pressure of their ideological interests.

The debate on the sunset clauses reminds me why more visible minority Canadians don’t enter politics—why they feel cut out of the public discourse. Navdeep Bains and Omar Alghabra, two hard-working and loyal Member of Parliament, have become “hyphenated MPs,” not by choice but because people like this Prime Minister and some news outlets would rather promote a culture of fear and prejudice than engage in an honest debate about our civil liberties and collective security.

Liberal MP Mark Holland represents Ajax-Pickering, Ont.

Women in Politics.... My Thoughts

2007-03-20T23:32:00.000-07:00

My obvious bias aside, seeing that I am in fact a woman I find the issue of women in politics an interesting subject. In the article by Christy Clark she highlights some very interesting points. One of the most significant things that came to my attention is that she was only the second female to give birth while serving as a cabinet minister. I believe this is significant because it truly hammers home the fact that women participate less in elected office. Clark talks about some of the issue further in the article.

Now I have to ask, why is that? Its certainly not because women are less qualified, less intelligent, or less motivated. There must be some other explanation. Now I implore you to ask yourself what it could possibly be?

Female representation in electoral candidates in the last election for the Liberal Party was approximately 25%. The representation in the house is even less than that.

Now, when I joined this party part of the reason was that it was a progressive party. I also supported Stephane Dion because I thought, and still think he is a progressive individual. He sees that sometimes talking about doing something is not enough. This why I absolutely support his decision to appoint female candidates in ridings, and I welcomed his appointment of Martha Hall Findlay.

I think that 30% is a number that is attainable but we can do better. According to Stats Canada women represent 50.5 % of the population in 2006. I believe it is a representation of our country and not a quota.

It is not enough to merely say we think it is a problem we must work towards the solution. My point is that if we really want to be progressive then we need to acknowledge that half of our population is more likely to face discrimination whether it be because of her occupation, her choice in having a family or not, hours etc. I think you get the point, although I could go on. We need to be the party of progress, not one that holds on to age old stereotypes.

Interesting Fact- " In 1993 election, the Progressive Conservatives achieved gender parity in their elected caucus, but only by virtue of electing just two Members of Parliament nationwide and losing official party status"
Found at Wikipedia

Women in Politics

2007-03-20T21:32:00.000-07:00

I've changed my mind -- we need quotas to get women into politics
By Christy Clark
The Vancouver Province
Published: Sunday, March 11, 2007

Ask a woman to run for office and she'll say, "Why are you asking me?" Ask a man, and he'll say, "I can't believe it took you so long to ask."

Those are typical responses from the people I've asked to run over the years. They help explain why women are so sparsely represented in politics.

The number of women MPs has hovered around 20 per cent since 1997. In the last election, it decreased.

We're 47th in the world now -- behind Rwanda, Afghanistan and Iraq.

Party leaders say they're trying hard, but it's not working. Maybe it's because they use the same strategies to recruit women as they do for men.

They need new strategies. Women see politics differently. We see ourselves differently.

Statistics Canada reports women have been socialized to see politics as an "unsuitable career option."

Apparently, there are few who think it's something they'd relish. No kidding. The fist-pounding and confrontation are a little unsettling.

But that's how men are wired. They are more likely to settle disagreements through confrontation. Women prefer to seek consensus.

The nomination process can seem darkly mysterious to a political outsider. And women who are new to politics often suspect that, if there's a man in the race, he's been hand-picked to win.

Then there's the "imposter syndrome."

Women I've tried to persuade look suspiciously at me and ask, "Are you sure there's no one who's better qualified?"

They're not as comfortable pushing themselves into the spotlight and telling the world they're the best.

Some have said they worry that if they're asked a question they can't answer everyone will think they're a fraud.

Women worry more about what others think of them.

The worst thing I got called was a bad mother.

I once did a live radio interview with my crying infant in my arms. I now realize that even happy babies cry a lot. But I was devastated at the time when CBC aired a call from an angry listener who said the crying was proof I was neglectful.

And that's the biggest reason my half of the human race shies away from politics. Most men can run knowing there's someone at home who can backfill. Most women can't.

It's time for radical change if we want more women in politics. Parties have to do more than encourage women, they have to actively support them. That means quotas.

I once thought that setting quotas for women candidates was wrong. I've changed my mind. We've tried the same old things for 30 years and we're backsliding.

Once we elect more women, the culture of Parliament will change. The hours will be more family friendly. The tone of debate will soften.

I don't know if it will guarantee better decisions. But I do know that it will certainly make it different. Because we are different.

christyclark@shaw.ca

Christy Clark

© The Vancouver Province 2007

Christy Clark served as British Columbia's Deputy Premier, Minister of Education and Minister for Children and Familes.
She was the second woman in Canadian history to give birth to a child while serving as a cabinet minister.

Great Video

2007-03-20T13:53:00.000-07:00

Premier of Newfoundland and Labrador Danny Williams tells Federal Minister of Finance Jim Flaherty like it is.

2007-03-19T03:31:00.000-07:00

Check out the Ontario Young Liberals website. I am excited to start my term working with such a tremendous group of people. I can say that I am truly blessed to have an opportunity to help paint Ontario red with this stellar group, many of whom I count among my very closest friends.

Shameless advertising aside, I can say that we are all looking forward to the coming months because, our job is a very important one. One, which we do not take lightly. I believe in a Liberal vision for Ontario, and Canada and I also believe that Canadians do too. I, will of course talk about this more later.

A little something for your Monday morning...

2007-03-19T02:50:00.000-07:00

Guess who this is......

The most recent Alberta Treasury estimates are that Albertans transfer $2,600 per capita annually to other Canadians, for a total outflow from our province approaching $8 billion a year. The same federal politicians who accuse us of not sharing their “Canadian values” have no compunction about appropriating our Canadian dollars to buy votes elsewhere in the country.

Now look at it in the context of what is happening in Ottawa today.

If you guessed Stephen Harper, you would be right. He among several others authored this in the letter commonly referred to as the "Alberta Agenda" or the "Firewall Letter." Take a look.

Some Thoughts...

2007-03-19T01:44:00.000-07:00

This is going to be a pivotal week in Canadian politics, honestly I have no idea what could happen in the future and to be frank that is quite scary. Although I do not think we will get the election (today), we must watch Harper in the coming days. Regardless of what he says about not wanting an election, he and he alone holds that possibility in his hands.

I think the budget will have lots of goodies in it, I hear 4 Billion for the provinces.

A new poll suggests what many of us already know, most Canadians favour social spending over tax cuts. Many people may be surprised to know that Canadians actually see the potential problem with such huge tax cuts. I think the most revealing thing I have heard was one individual was asked about tax cuts they said they were skeptical because they didn't know where the government would recoup the money from, but thought it would come from social spending. That's not to say that some tax relief is beneficial, it is not always a huge issue as Stephen Harper and Jim Flaherty would have us believe.

Elizabeth May to run in the riding held by Peter Mackay, now that will be one to watch.

Now, this made my week. I absolutely love the press coverage that Dion is getting over his policy on greenhouse gas emissions. I think that all the attention is good because we are now talking about the issues. The Tories of course will attempt to fear monger by screaming National Energy Program and such, but eighty percent of the money paid into the account is to stay in province it came from.

So basically, for every excess tonne of emissions, the company would have to pay a set amount. They can make withdrawals for green projects they are working on. This is a way to ensure that companies are working towards a solution, rather than just polluting needlessly for the sake of their own gain.

This is another article on the subject.

News alert!! The Conservatives say that they will not be withdrawing from Kyoto.

Now, we wait for the budget.

Interesting....

2007-03-13T04:37:00.000-07:00

So while doing research on another piece I am working on I have an interesting thought. What was Stephen Harper polling at in regards to his PM potential at about three months after he was elected leader of the Conservative Party of Canada. I thought to compare the two. Keep in mind that there are different situational factors to be factored in but these numbers are still interesting.

Martin Seen as Best PM for Canada- August 23rd, 2004
SES Research

August 2004 / June 2004

Paul Martin - 36% / 28%

Stephen Harper- 16%/ 21%

None - 11%/ 13%

Undecided - 16%/ 21%

* This was as close a time frame as I could get because of less frequent polling.

Dion Cannot Catch Harper in Canada, March 10th, 2007 (Data collected March 6th- March 7th, 2007) Angus Reid Strategies

Stephen Harper- 35%

Stephane Dion- 19%

Neither- 30%

Not Sure- 16%

Now I am not a poll junkie, but I thought this would put things in perspective a bit. Dion has been leader for a little over three months so I found numbers from around the time Harper had been leader of his party for approximately three months. I thought the comparison would be interesting.

p.s. I am working on a piece about polls and I will most likely put it up later today.

What is Dion Up Against..

2007-03-13T04:05:00.000-07:00

First off, I must apologize for my absence. I managed to catch a cold and it would not go away. Now I am back and as opinionated as ever.

One thing that I must say is that I respectfully disagree with Justin Tetreault on his statement that he thinks that Dion has dropped the ball. We all seem to be so quick to judge Dion without really looking at what he is up against.

Stephen Harper in the past months has not been nothing more than what we expected; he is incredibly intelligent (yes I just complimented him). He has managed to not miss to many steps. He has brought forth cuts and then reversed then without as much of a second glance by the mainstream media. The way he is governing is pretty much what an extreme right Liberal Party would do, by putting money into social programs and economic investments. This of course is merely superficial. Harper more than anyone knows the importance of gaining the more centrist Canadians vote. Also it helps that every time Dion announces something, Harper gets a bright idea.

I nearly fell off my chair when I heard this.

Plus Harper has the big cheque book, which allows him to dole out cash at his own accord.

So no offence to all those people who point Dion's performance as being less than stellar, he is not against someone who is easy to find fault in. Barring that Stephen Harper is not found with some little boy in an illicit act sometime soon (horrible joke I know) the road is not going to get much easier. Dion has all the qualities you need to be a great leader, but it not like he is running against say Stockwell Day or something.

P.s. Remember politics is about perception. So every time you have a complaint I think you should think of how it can be changed and do it, because every negative or positive thing you say or do contributes.

So lets continue to work hard because this is our party, and we contribute to its greatness.

Well worth the read...

2007-03-10T22:16:00.000-08:00

It may be a little long for some, but Dr. Tom Axworthy really gets it and explains it in his posting on the Daily Canuck.

By "it" I mean Dion and why we admire him, and what will set him apart from Harper in the next election.