Talk Elections

General Politics => International General Discussion => Topic started by: RogueBeaver on January 06, 2012, 12:03:35 PM



Title: Canada General Discussion
Post by: RogueBeaver on January 06, 2012, 12:03:35 PM
Aping our Aussie friends, talk about anything related to Canadian politics here.

I'll start us off with Chantal Hebert's "People to Watch", some MacKay marriage gossip, and Wells' speculation on Harper's major policy initiatives for this year.

http://www.thestar.com/article/1110563--hebert-thirteen-to-watch-in-2012

http://www.ngnews.ca/News/Local/2012-01-05/article-2855946/MacKay-shares-wedding-story/1

http://www2.macleans.ca/2012/01/06/harpers-sleepy-majority/


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: Hatman 🍁 on January 06, 2012, 05:08:43 PM
I was just going to create this,

Harper to appoint 7 new Senators including Ottawa police chief Vern White and "Senator Elect" Betty Unger: http://www.cbc.ca/news/politics/story/2012/01/06/pol-new-senators.html


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: Hatman 🍁 on January 06, 2012, 05:11:44 PM
I guess Chief White couldn't take the pressure of running the show here, what with all the accusations of police brutality last year and investigations of racism on the force.

It's interesting, I thought the police wouldn't want to get into politics, at least not as Tories, since they usually are in favour of the gun registry. But, with White and former OPP chief Julian Fantino.... I am reminded of our last police chief (Brian Ford) who also ran for politics; he was a Liberal though. Something about this city must give the police political connections... gross.


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: RogueBeaver on January 06, 2012, 05:39:25 PM
Two Quebec Tories will be appointed to the Senate, plus Marc Bellemare.

http://www.ledevoir.com/politique/canada/339656/l-ex-ministre-bellemare-serait-pressenti-comme-senateur

http://www.ledevoir.com/politique/canada/339734/deux-conservateurs-du-quebec-sont-nommes-au-senat-canadien


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: Хahar 🤔 on January 06, 2012, 05:50:17 PM
Glad to see that commitment to Senate reform in action.


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: RogueBeaver on January 06, 2012, 05:51:27 PM
The bill will be passed fairly shortly. Personally I like the Senate the way it is...


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: Teddy (IDS Legislator) on January 06, 2012, 06:30:15 PM
Bill? What bill?


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: Foucaulf on January 06, 2012, 08:25:55 PM
Lots of questions for the new year. How will the relationship between McGuinty and Harper play out? Which year will Flaherty now predict that he'll balance the budget? Will Redford actually solve Alberta's fiscal maelstrom? Will the Conservatives formulate a coherent foreign policy?

For now, here's an article on Canada's stubborn unemployment rate (http://tgam.ca/DOSz) and the attrition of consumer confidence (http://tgam.ca/DOPJ). Perhaps Flaherty's blame-pinning on Europe  (http://www.cbc.ca/news/politics/story/2011/11/25/flaherty-economy-speech.html)has backfired?


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: RogueBeaver on January 06, 2012, 08:33:42 PM
McGuinty-Harper: Frenemies as usual.

Foreign policy: What's incoherent about it?

AB: She's a Red Tory who loves spending auctions. That budget mess won't be sorted out till Wildrose wipes the Progressives off the electoral map.


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: Hatman 🍁 on January 06, 2012, 10:59:15 PM
Personally I like the Senate the way it is...

Figures. "Commitment" to Senate reform is the one of the few things I like about the Tories. 
Glad to see that commitment to Senate reform in action.

To be fair, *one* of the appointees was actually elected to the Senate... 6 years ago :P


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: Хahar 🤔 on January 06, 2012, 11:14:38 PM
An elected Senate with an equal number of members from each province would be even less democratic than the current setup, since it would combine undemocratic apportionment with a sense of legitimacy that would allow it to threaten the democratic house. The NDP has the right idea with regard to the Senate.


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: RogueBeaver on January 06, 2012, 11:25:14 PM
One elected, one appointed. That's my position. On this issue and fixed election dates I side with the Reds, not my own Blues.

Power shifting westwards.

http://www.thestar.com/news/canada/politics/article/1111715--hebert-power-shifting-from-central-canada-to-the-west

Harper proposes a veterans' jobs scheme.

http://www.cyberpresse.ca/actualites/quebec-canada/politique-canadienne/201201/06/01-4483579-stephen-harper-propose-un-programme-pour-trouver-des-emplois-aux-veterans.php


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: Hatman 🍁 on January 07, 2012, 01:33:43 AM
One elected, one appointed. That's my position. On this issue and fixed election dates I side with the Reds, not my own Blues.

Why do you hate democracy?

An elected Senate with an equal number of members from each province would be even less democratic than the current setup, since it would combine undemocratic apportionment with a sense of legitimacy that would allow it to threaten the democratic house. The NDP has the right idea with regard to the Senate.

While it wouldn't be less democratic, I wouldn't support PEI getting the same number of Senators as Ontario... that's insane! I would have 100 senators, with 10 regions with 10 Senators each elected by proportional representation.

Western Canada would get 30 Senators, Central Canada would get 60 and Atlantic Canada would get 10.


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: Хahar 🤔 on January 07, 2012, 01:58:39 AM
Fixed election dates are silly, I agree.

An elected Senate with an equal number of members from each province would be even less democratic than the current setup, since it would combine undemocratic apportionment with a sense of legitimacy that would allow it to threaten the democratic house. The NDP has the right idea with regard to the Senate.

While it wouldn't be less democratic, I wouldn't support PEI getting the same number of Senators as Ontario... that's insane! I would have 100 senators, with 10 regions with 10 Senators each elected by proportional representation.

Western Canada would get 30 Senators, Central Canada would get 60 and Atlantic Canada would get 10.

I wouldn't hate that, but it's unnecessary. The system works fine now with a powerless upper house. Why not just get rid of the upper house altogether?


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: Teddy (IDS Legislator) on January 07, 2012, 02:11:14 AM
()


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: Hatman 🍁 on January 07, 2012, 02:51:24 AM
Fixed election dates are silly, I agree.

What??? The current system is easily abused, as Premiers/PMs wait for the best time to run for re-election (although it can backfire...)

Quote
An elected Senate with an equal number of members from each province would be even less democratic than the current setup, since it would combine undemocratic apportionment with a sense of legitimacy that would allow it to threaten the democratic house. The NDP has the right idea with regard to the Senate.

While it wouldn't be less democratic, I wouldn't support PEI getting the same number of Senators as Ontario... that's insane! I would have 100 senators, with 10 regions with 10 Senators each elected by proportional representation.

Western Canada would get 30 Senators, Central Canada would get 60 and Atlantic Canada would get 10.

I wouldn't hate that, but it's unnecessary. The system works fine now with a powerless upper house. Why not just get rid of the upper house altogether?

You sound very much like a New Democrat ;)  This is one of my big disagreements with the party. We should be willing to compromise with the Tories on this one. At least it's better than Liberal patronage land.


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: Holmes on January 08, 2012, 09:08:03 AM

The relationship between them will surely benefit Ontarians greatly.


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: RogueBeaver on January 08, 2012, 05:13:14 PM
It won't be the premiers. Either the new NDP leader and/or Bob Rae.

http://www.thestar.com/news/canada/politics/article/1112279--tim-harper-who-can-slow-stephen-harper-in-2012


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: RogueBeaver on January 08, 2012, 09:39:25 PM
Government eyes creation of native education system. I like this idea.

http://www.theglobeandmail.com/news/politics/john-ibbitson/tories-eye-creation-of-formal-native-education-system/article2295443/


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: Hatman 🍁 on January 09, 2012, 03:53:48 PM
What a shame that this wont happen: :(

http://www.cbc.ca/news/yourcommunity/2012/01/would-harper-or-putin-win-a-summit-series-rematch.html


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: Hatman 🍁 on January 09, 2012, 04:57:41 PM
Today is the nomination day for the NDP in Toronto-Danforth for the upcoming by-election.


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: RogueBeaver on January 09, 2012, 05:03:39 PM
Today is the nomination day for the NDP in Toronto-Danforth for the upcoming by-election.

Wonder why the PM is waiting so long to call it...


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: MaxQue on January 09, 2012, 07:02:55 PM
Because he will obviously lose it.


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: RogueBeaver on January 09, 2012, 07:18:54 PM

So why not call it if we're going to nearly lose our deposit anyways? The best we Tories could hope for is boosting the Liberal AMAP.


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: RogueBeaver on January 09, 2012, 10:52:14 PM
Craig Scott gets the nod.

http://www.theglobeandmail.com/news/politics/craig-scott-gets-ndp-nod-to-run-in-by-election-in-laytons-old-riding/article2296681/


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: RogueBeaver on January 09, 2012, 10:58:40 PM
I'd like to think the Grits have learned their lesson, since they haven't advocated such policies in the past 6 years. But in this case, it was Harper who wanted to override provincial jurisdiction and the opposition which objected. Both Dippers and Grits are centralistic, and Harper's centralistic or devolutionist depending on the subject.

http://www.thestar.com/news/canada/politics/article/1112925--hebert-liberals-top-down-view-of-federalism-out-of-date


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: World politics is up Schmitt creek on January 10, 2012, 12:01:22 AM
RogueBeaver, considering that that article about First Nations education policy mentions Canada's history of using education to undermine First Nations cultures, have any major tribes come out either in favor of or opposition to the Government's proposals yet? Also, am I correct in understanding that, at least in the Senate, this isn't an entirely partisan issue?


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: Holmes on January 10, 2012, 08:01:29 AM
Craig Scott gets the nod.

http://www.theglobeandmail.com/news/politics/craig-scott-gets-ndp-nod-to-run-in-by-election-in-laytons-old-riding/article2296681/

Yes!


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: RogueBeaver on January 10, 2012, 10:24:54 AM
Quebec Dipper backbencher defects to the Grits. She represents the Strangler's old riding. IIRC this is the first defection since Blair Wilson's 4 years ago.

http://www.cbc.ca/news/politics/story/2012/01/10/pol-lib-rae-coderre.html


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: Hash on January 10, 2012, 10:28:18 AM
http://www.cbc.ca/news/politics/story/2012/01/09/pol-joe-oliver-radical-groups.html

Does this pathetic government no longer even try to not appear as some Tea Party far-right joke? And yeah, I'm a "radical" and proud of it.


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: Holmes on January 10, 2012, 10:33:23 AM
Bah, I hate turn coats in general, I feel like it's an injustice to the riding that elected the person in question. But, 71 and battling cancer, jumping to the third party in Parliament... I don't see her having a future in the next Parliament.


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: RogueBeaver on January 10, 2012, 10:35:56 AM
Which begs the question of why Coderre engineered this in the first place.


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: RogueBeaver on January 10, 2012, 10:46:40 AM
Now they're making a big deal over her backing for Mulcair.

http://www.theglobeandmail.com/news/politics/mp-who-backed-mulcair-for-ndp-leader-defects-to-liberals/article2297353/


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: RogueBeaver on January 10, 2012, 11:11:59 AM
Updated seat count:

CPC: 165
NDP: 101
LPC: 35
BQ: 4
IND: 1
VAC: 1


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: MaxQue on January 10, 2012, 11:43:44 AM
Quebec Dipper backbencher defects to the Grits. She represents the Strangler's old riding. IIRC this is the first defection since Blair Wilson's 4 years ago.

http://www.cbc.ca/news/politics/story/2012/01/10/pol-lib-rae-coderre.html

It is me, or the article is more or less implying than she left because she didn't got a good position.
Anyways, she will lose next time, if she bothers to run.


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: RogueBeaver on January 10, 2012, 11:50:19 AM
Quebec Dipper backbencher defects to the Grits. She represents the Strangler's old riding. IIRC this is the first defection since Blair Wilson's 4 years ago.

http://www.cbc.ca/news/politics/story/2012/01/10/pol-lib-rae-coderre.html

It is me, or the article is more or less implying than she left because she didn't got a good position.
Anyways, she will lose next time, if she bothers to run.

She probably won't run, and the seat will probably flip.

What's also interesting: article says Coderre still has organizational duties. Last I checked all real power was devolved to bureaucrats, with the "lieutenant" becoming a "caucus liaison to Pelciquiste board" after the Candidate Swap Incident 3 years ago.


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: Hatman 🍁 on January 10, 2012, 12:23:13 PM
Ugh... good riddance. Apparently she was one of the MPs that were making us look bad. Never campaigned in the riding, never moved there (nor is planning to), doesn't know the words to O Canada...  and some of her opposition to our policies are baffling to. You don't support the Libyan mission? Well guess what, the Liberals supported it to. Only the Greens were against it. Why arent you switching to them? And you're against abolishing the Senate? Well, so am I, but it's hardly a pressing issue. And Im sure your constituents just LOVE the Senate. If the NDP became the government, then it would be an issue... She also said her constituents just voted for Jack... but I think the fact that the NDP still leads the polls in Quebec shows that that is not entirely true.

Also, I am 100% in favour of the party's position of making turncoats resign to force a by-election. It's actually an idea I thought of on my own before learning it was party policy. This is what she should do.

As for the riding's future, if the NDP remains the #1 party in Quebec, it should keep the riding. It certainly wont be going Liberal. If the BQ gets a resurgence, than they might be able to pick it up. If there was a by-election held now, I think the NDP would win it.


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: RogueBeaver on January 10, 2012, 12:46:29 PM
I agree with the by-election idea.


Also, interesting: Rae says he doesn't know whether or not this is an isolated event. Depends on how things develop politically this year IMO. As it is the Pelciquistes are a small but talented and experienced group- they don't need (and shouldn't want) dead weight just to pad their seat count.

http://www.theglobeandmail.com/news/politics/mp-defects-to-liberals-ndp-decries-lack-of-respect-for-democracy/article2297353/


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: RogueBeaver on January 10, 2012, 01:33:29 PM
This is ridiculous. If federalism's an issue, don't run with the Sherbrooke Declaration party.

http://www.thestar.com/news/canada/politics/article/1113145--ndp-mp-lise-st-denis-defects-to-the-liberals


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: Holmes on January 10, 2012, 01:41:01 PM
No by-elections. The riding shouldn't have to go to the polls for their MP being stupid and crossing the aisle.


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: Hatman 🍁 on January 10, 2012, 01:43:27 PM
No by-elections. The riding shouldn't have to go to the polls for their MP being stupid and crossing the aisle.

But they voted for the NDP, not the Liberals! How would you feel if Charlie Angus defected? I bet you'd want to get the chance to vote him out. Unless you like Charlie that much more than the NDP...


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: Holmes on January 10, 2012, 01:49:06 PM
I do like Charlie more than the party yes, and I don't think Timmins-James Bay will ever get a better representative when he retires. But no by-election. I'd probably abstain from voting in the next election (he'd lose anyway).


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: RogueBeaver on January 10, 2012, 01:50:41 PM
The last time a defector was reelected would be Scott Brison in 2004- but he had a legitimate reason and never really changed his ideological stripes.


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: Hatman 🍁 on January 10, 2012, 04:00:35 PM
Belinda Stronach also got re-elected after defecting.

I do like Charlie more than the party yes, and I don't think Timmins-James Bay will ever get a better representative when he retires. But no by-election. I'd probably abstain from voting in the next election (he'd lose anyway).

OK, but I'm sure this MP's constituents don't prefer her over the party.


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: Хahar 🤔 on January 10, 2012, 04:04:02 PM
I don't understand why anyone would join the Liberal Party.

No by-elections. The riding shouldn't have to go to the polls for their MP being stupid and crossing the aisle.

They shouldn't get a say about that?


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: RogueBeaver on January 10, 2012, 04:12:00 PM
From her comments, it sounds like she was a Dipper who didn't realize that ideologically, she's a Grit.

On another subject, since my "LPC policy convention" thread never really got going, should I post about that here or in the Grit leadership thread?


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: Hatman 🍁 on January 10, 2012, 05:12:03 PM
From her comments, it sounds like she was a Dipper who didn't realize that ideologically, she's a Grit.

It seems that way, but who could possibly not realize this, especially in Quebec. Why volunteer and run for a party with no history there, when there is a big red machine that has historically actually won seats in Quebec.


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: RogueBeaver on January 10, 2012, 05:20:37 PM
Dunno. Grit brand is still toxic in ROQ anyhow. And she should thank her benefactor, the Strangler, for that.

Anyhoo, I think I'll place any non-leadership related stuff from the Grit convention here and anything leadership-related in that thread.


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: Holmes on January 10, 2012, 05:58:59 PM
No by-elections. The riding shouldn't have to go to the polls for their MP being stupid and crossing the aisle.

They shouldn't get a say about that?

So what, a referendum when there's a defection about whether or not there should be a by-election, and then one if they want one?


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: World politics is up Schmitt creek on January 10, 2012, 07:13:40 PM
Quebec Dipper backbencher defects to the Grits. She represents the Strangler's old riding. IIRC this is the first defection since Blair Wilson's 4 years ago.

http://www.cbc.ca/news/politics/story/2012/01/10/pol-lib-rae-coderre.html

'Les électeurs ont voté pour Jack Layton. Jack Layton est mort.'

Jesus Christ. You stay classy, Mme St-Denis.


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: Teddy (IDS Legislator) on January 10, 2012, 07:38:21 PM
From her comments, it sounds like she was a Dipper who didn't realize that ideologically, she's a Grit.
I was one of those


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: Marokai Backbeat on January 10, 2012, 08:29:50 PM
Quebec Dipper backbencher defects to the Grits. She represents the Strangler's old riding. IIRC this is the first defection since Blair Wilson's 4 years ago.

http://www.cbc.ca/news/politics/story/2012/01/10/pol-lib-rae-coderre.html

'Les électeurs ont voté pour Jack Layton. Jack Layton est mort.'

Jesus Christ. You stay classy, Mme St-Denis.

Yeah, pretty gross. Good riddance.


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: Filuwaúrdjan on January 10, 2012, 08:32:55 PM
I love how it looks even worse in French.


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: World politics is up Schmitt creek on January 10, 2012, 08:34:20 PM

That's exactly why I did a few minutes of Googling for the French version. It's impossible to say that sort of thing and seem remotely decent in most Romance languages.


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: Хahar 🤔 on January 10, 2012, 08:38:16 PM
There's such a finality to the word "mort".

No by-elections. The riding shouldn't have to go to the polls for their MP being stupid and crossing the aisle.

They shouldn't get a say about that?

So what, a referendum when there's a defection about whether or not there should be a by-election, and then one if they want one?

No, just have a by-election. They're not getting what they voted for, so they ought to have a chance to voice their opinion.


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: World politics is up Schmitt creek on January 10, 2012, 10:14:46 PM
There's such a finality to the word "mort".

It's the stop at the end in some dialects, like Old French, which I'm actually more familiar with morphologically than modern French because of my interest in the Middle Ages. Same reason 'dead' sounds more final than 'deceased' or 'late' and 'deceased' and 'late' are in turn harsher than 'passed away', which ends in an open syllable, or the noun form 'death'. In dialects where the T is silent, like modern standard French, the MAAWWR aspect is still kind of maudlin and depressing in a way that the curt Anglo-Saxon 'dead' really isn't.


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: World politics is up Schmitt creek on January 11, 2012, 01:17:29 PM
What appeal do/could the Tories have in Quebec?


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: RogueBeaver on January 11, 2012, 01:27:28 PM
What appeal do/could the Tories have in Quebec?

Provincial autonomy, coopting soft-to-middling nationalism. Harper gave up on Quebec apart from our small beachhead established in '06. The Liberal brand is toxic there not for ideological reasons or federalist ones IMO, but because of Adscam's lingering effects. As recently as 2000 Grits won 38/75 seats in Quebec.



Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: Filuwaúrdjan on January 11, 2012, 01:37:50 PM
Surely the Liberal name was already mud as far as most Francophones were concerned, and had been since Trudeau did what he did over the Constitution?


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: RogueBeaver on January 11, 2012, 01:44:27 PM
The Liberals always placed a close second under Chretien in terms of seats and votes in Quebec. As for PET, polls say that in retrospect, Quebecers like the effects of 1982 if not the methodology.


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: Teddy (IDS Legislator) on January 11, 2012, 01:45:56 PM
According to the polls, the Liberals almost "took over" the "Orange Surge" before it was such a thing. Bloc voters desperately were looking for someone else to vote for a week into the election. The problem was Iggy. Had the Liberals had a good leader, we might had had a Liberal government.


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: RogueBeaver on January 11, 2012, 04:28:10 PM
PM headed to China next month.

http://www.cyberpresse.ca/actualites/quebec-canada/politique-canadienne/201201/11/01-4484813-stephen-harper-ira-en-chine-en-fevrier.php


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: RogueBeaver on January 11, 2012, 05:27:09 PM
Hebert: Defection is symptomatic of a larger Dipper Quebec decline. They have been down in the polls in recent months, but we'll see whether that holds after March 24.

http://www.thestar.com/news/canada/politics/article/1114112--hebert-many-quebecers-who-voted-ndp-saw-dream-die-with-jack-layton


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: RogueBeaver on January 11, 2012, 06:20:41 PM
LOL @ Kinsella's delusions. Coderre isn't feared, he's just a loudmouth and a first-rate asshole.

http://www.torontosun.com/2012/01/10/grits-off-to-a-positive-start-in-new-year


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: Teddy (IDS Legislator) on January 11, 2012, 06:38:52 PM
Not just that he's a loudmouth and a fir... oh, I guess you covered that pretty well.


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: RogueBeaver on January 11, 2012, 06:50:11 PM
Also: Coderre the best-known Liberal in Quebec? I'd say he's one of the lesser-known Pelciquistes alongside Paccetti and Scarpaleggia. The other 4 are household names nationwide.


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: Хahar 🤔 on January 11, 2012, 07:02:36 PM
My offhand guess would be that the best-known Quebec Liberal would be Trudeau, if only because of the name.


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: RogueBeaver on January 11, 2012, 07:22:52 PM
I'd rank name ID as follows: Trudeau, Dion, Cotler, Garneau.


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: RogueBeaver on January 11, 2012, 07:24:49 PM
I hate when our backbenchers bring up social issues. If you're going to bring one up, at least bring up capital punishment where there's substantial support.

http://www.theglobeandmail.com/news/politics/ottawa-notebook/mps-have-duty-to-debate-rights-of-unborn-backbench-tory-argues/article2299369/


Ontarians would beg to disagree.

http://www.theglobeandmail.com/news/politics/ottawa-notebook/rae-rallies-liberals-with-effervescent-defence-of-his-ndp-record/article2299163/


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: Hash on January 11, 2012, 07:41:46 PM
I'd rank name ID as follows: Trudeau, Dion, Cotler, Garneau.

Cotler is certainly not more well known than Coderre, at least as far as I know in Francophone QC circles (especially judging from my family, I doubt more than 1 or 2 people in my family know Cotler). He's probably more well known in Anglo circles, but not in Franco spheres.

Also, my MP is one of those useless retarded pro-life jokes. I guess being a pro-life idiot gives him something to do, because he sure as hell doesn't do anything of worth besides that.


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: RogueBeaver on January 11, 2012, 07:51:35 PM
So put Garneau in third and the last depends on whether you're Franco or Anglo. I've never heard any Anglo I know, even the most political ones, mention Coderre.


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: Hatman 🍁 on January 11, 2012, 10:38:52 PM
1) Trudeau 2) Dion 3) Garneau.  No one knows or cares who Coderre is in Anglo Canada.

Hebert: Defection is symptomatic of a larger Dipper Quebec decline. They have been down in the polls in recent months, but we'll see whether that holds after March 24.

::)


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: JonBidinger on January 12, 2012, 12:38:40 PM
Didn't take long (http://www.vancouversun.com/life/Feds+thousands+marriages+done+Canada+legal+Report/5984312/story.html) for the Conservatives to show their true face.


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: MaxQue on January 12, 2012, 03:38:05 PM
I think than for French people Coderre is more known than Garneau.
Most people aren't aware than Garneau became an MP, while virtually everybody knows Coderre, as he the very definition of a media whore.


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: Teddy (IDS Legislator) on January 12, 2012, 03:53:24 PM
Coderre is not well known in RoC


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: MaxQue on January 12, 2012, 06:35:10 PM

I know. I wrote "French people", too, in my message.
They are lucky, I find him very annoying.


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: RogueBeaver on January 12, 2012, 06:46:22 PM
No kidding. At QP he always bellows at the top of his lungs with feigned outrage- textbook definition of a blowhard. The only Liberal I dislike more is Hedy Fry, which I don't think requires explanation. Another Grit I intensely dislike is Kirsty Duncan. Other than that, I'm either meh, OK with or like the rest of their caucus.


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: Teddy (IDS Legislator) on January 12, 2012, 07:54:54 PM
There are a number of fat white francos with bad haircuts in the Liberal Party, and every single one of them need to go.


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: RogueBeaver on January 12, 2012, 08:05:32 PM
There are a number of fat white francos with bad haircuts in the Liberal Party, and every single one of them need to go.

Besides Coderre, who? LeBland?


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: Teddy (IDS Legislator) on January 12, 2012, 08:39:24 PM
No, he's alright. Mostly these are people from Montreal, or, who should be from Montreal.

Cauchon, Pettigrew, Belanger.

These people are the kind that if you told them they are "entitled" they'd slap you and say "no, we are VERY entitled", and beyond that, they, especially Coderre and Belanger, are the type that you think if you ever met them and shook hands with them that you hand would end up covered in disgusting slime even if they had just come out of the shower.



Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: RogueBeaver on January 12, 2012, 08:41:17 PM
OK, but the first 2 haven't been around for years and Belanger is a nonentity within caucus.


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: Teddy (IDS Legislator) on January 12, 2012, 10:07:46 PM
Doesn't mean I can't hate him.


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: Hatman 🍁 on January 12, 2012, 11:26:01 PM
I don't mind Belanger so much. He endorsed (former NDPer) Alex Munter in the 2006 mayoral race over fellow Liberal (and then incumbent) Bob Chiarelli.


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: Hash on January 13, 2012, 09:23:46 AM
Belanger was my MP and while he did seem a bit entitled when I saw him during the coalition crisis, he was a very good MP and he was miles better in what he did than my useless Purgatory hack is. Though in terms of O-V representatives, I still prefer Madeleine Meilleur who is a really nice person and works really hard (I worked for her once, but still).


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: Hatman 🍁 on January 13, 2012, 11:34:08 AM
The Tories are going to make a law allowing for the early reporting of election results.


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: RogueBeaver on January 13, 2012, 12:05:39 PM
Excellent. Now we can see results from the get-go rather than losing so much fun. :)


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: RogueBeaver on January 13, 2012, 12:07:28 PM
CBC liveblog of the Grit convention. Fun won't be till Sunday when the new president is elected.

http://www.cbc.ca/news/politics/inside-politics-blog/2012/01/liveblogging-the-2012-liberal-convention-lpc12.html


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: RogueBeaver on January 13, 2012, 12:29:52 PM
Causes of Grit decline in Quebec: leadership, lack of clear policy, Adscam. Two are now fixed, the last can only heal with time.

http://www.lactualite.com/politique/les-nouveaux-habits-du-plc


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: Holmes on January 13, 2012, 12:31:04 PM
The Tories are going to make a law allowing for the early reporting of election results.

()


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: Hatman 🍁 on January 13, 2012, 12:34:17 PM
I will make a point of totally ignoring the Liberal convention.


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: RogueBeaver on January 13, 2012, 12:39:33 PM
Oh come on... admit seeing *President* Copps giving an acceptance speech will be amusing. Plus I want to see what The Architect (Brison) has to say.


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: Hatman 🍁 on January 13, 2012, 02:45:15 PM
Oh come on... admit seeing *President* Copps giving an acceptance speech will be amusing. Plus I want to see what The Architect (Brison) has to say.

No. If I watch anything this weekend, it'll be the Continental Cup.


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: RogueBeaver on January 13, 2012, 11:26:43 PM
Apart from some mild exaggeration on Quebec, I agree almost entirely with Trudeau's diagnosis. They will need at least Martin's 21 seats if they ever hope to form government again.

http://www.cjad.com/blog/AaronRandShow/blogentry.aspx?BlogEntryID=10335368


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: Hatman 🍁 on January 15, 2012, 10:29:36 AM
Now that the Liberals will be letting anyone vote in their convention, it's time to hijack the race by getting a bunch of us to rally behind a radical right wing candidate.


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: Teddy (IDS Legislator) on January 15, 2012, 02:00:28 PM
http://cnews.canoe.ca/CNEWS/Politics/2012/01/15/19246886.html
liberals back preferential balloting

I am proud to be a card-carrying Liberal. Not only did we pick the good guy for President, but we have backed Preferential Balloting. Excellent. This is great news.


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: Holmes on January 15, 2012, 02:05:31 PM
Well, I'm a bit surprised.


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: RogueBeaver on January 15, 2012, 03:40:38 PM
That would require a constitutional amendment, so in practice the PR resolution means little. As for pot... rest assured we'll milk that to the last drop if Brison doesn't persuade Rae to veto it.



Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: Linus Van Pelt on January 15, 2012, 06:05:22 PM
That would require a constitutional amendment, so in practice the PR resolution means little. As for pot... rest assured we'll milk that to the last drop if Brison doesn't persuade Rae to veto it.



Why? The Elections Act can be amended by Parliament, as it was this year.


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: Teddy (IDS Legislator) on January 15, 2012, 10:49:20 PM
Aye.

There are a lot of election systems that we could reform to, but this is one that we could move to rather easily, and, it would advantage the Liberals in places like Ontario, but help the NDP even out west or in Quebec. Both parties would back it (though the NDP only as a step to something more) and it would have one huge benefit that would help it carry Quebec - it would truly end the Bloc and ensure it could never return.


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: minionofmidas on January 16, 2012, 02:00:40 PM
Good.


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: RogueBeaver on January 16, 2012, 02:03:56 PM
Charest wants a healthcare rebate.

http://www.theglobeandmail.com/news/politics/charest-demands-debate-on-unacceptable-federal-health-deal/article2304097/

Fletcher's temporarily on leave.

http://www.thestar.com/news/canada/politics/article/1116264--junior-transport-minister-steven-fletcher-takes-leave-for-medical-reasons


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: RogueBeaver on January 16, 2012, 07:19:32 PM
PM rejects health innovation fund. Sheesh, these people get a longer leash and they complain. Then again, premiers always act that way no matter the party/PM in power.

http://www.cbc.ca/news/politics/story/2012/01/16/pol-premiers-monday.html


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: RogueBeaver on January 16, 2012, 10:51:02 PM
Your opinions? I think the Grits aren't assured of recovery, but for now are on the path.

http://www.ledevoir.com/politique/canada/340364/un-parti-en-remission


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: Holmes on January 17, 2012, 03:47:06 PM
Radio interview with Lise St-Denis.

http://www.985fm.ca/audioplayer.php?mp3=121620

For non-French speakers:

Host says no one voted for her or for the Liberal Party, just for Layton. Says she betrayed them. She said no, she cares about constituents, not betrayal but democracy. Host says she should ask her constituents directly what they think. She says that she's worked hard and she won't resign, and that they voted for her. Host says no, no one voted for her and she was hardly ever even there. The people voted NDP, not her, not the Liberals that placed in fourth, and not even eight months later, she bails. Is it honest? She says yes.

She endorsed Mulcair in November. She decided to switch to the Liberals in early December. Didn't change because of Mulcair. In between, she felt a lot of negativity (?). Says he has a doctrinaire attitude. She called Coderre, then Rae, they had talks but kept silent before her announcement.


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: RogueBeaver on January 17, 2012, 03:55:37 PM
Am I the only one who considers this whole floor-crossing a tempest in a teapot?


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: Holmes on January 17, 2012, 05:53:38 PM
This one? I don't think so. But how many times has an NDP MP crossed the floor before?


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: RogueBeaver on January 17, 2012, 05:56:57 PM
The Dipper MP for Nunavut defected to the Grits in the early '80s. Though given that the Grits were then led by a social democrat, not a huge difference.



Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: RogueBeaver on January 17, 2012, 07:02:18 PM
PM's interview w/Mansbridge.

http://www.cbc.ca/news/politics/story/2012/01/17/pol-harper-iran.html


Any bets as to who wins this one?

http://www.hilltimes.com/feature/politics/2012/01/17/the-fighter-starring-liberal-mp-trudeau-and-tory-senator-brazeau/29320


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: RogueBeaver on January 17, 2012, 08:22:02 PM
Paul Wells promoted to Maclean's political editor. As a longtime subscriber I welcome the move...

http://www2.macleans.ca/2012/01/17/political-editor/


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: RogueBeaver on January 17, 2012, 08:30:46 PM
Talk about overkill. Sheesh, you'd think one of the vedettes defected from all this hysteria.

http://www.theglobeandmail.com/news/politics/ottawa-notebook/ndp-hits-back-at-quebec-defector-with-robo-calls-online-petition/article2305862/


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: Teddy (IDS Legislator) on January 17, 2012, 10:17:22 PM
When she said "NDP Attitudes" about certain things, the media was like "wha" but I know exactly what she means.

One small example is just after 9-11. I was on the PEI NDP executive, and they were discussing our reaction to the idea that the US might want to refuel airplanes going to and from Afghanistan on PEI.

I said that I didn't personally have a problem with that, but that I'd go along with what they agree, but that I don't think it's a big deal.

I just got cold stares from across the table. The President had to intervene as one of the other members looked like she was about to say something nasty.

Apparently, the debate was weather to protest loudly or even more loudly, because CLEARLY this idea HAS to be wrong. I got the feeling that just for disagreeing that somehow I was less of a man, that just for having this idea, that I MUST be stupid.

And that's just one incident on one issue.

That is why I left the NDP and still hate the NDP.


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: RogueBeaver on January 17, 2012, 10:47:53 PM
The '90s NDP was in decline for a reason, but the NDP Layton built is presumably free from that sort of dogmatism. You can still see that thing among PQ orthodoxes, who threw out every PQ leader except Parizeau for failing their purity test.

Grits aren't that dogmatic given their history as a brokerage party, but they also have their quirks. Especially the incredibly irksome "evidence-based" line. It's choir-preaching which doesn't do a thing to recapture Tim Hortons voters, even from people who know better like Rae, Dosanjh and Trudeau.


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: RogueBeaver on January 17, 2012, 10:52:39 PM
Don't bitch, fight back. We can take a few media punches.

http://www.hilltimes.com/news/politics/2012/01/17/third-party-advertising-spending-should-be-restricted-between-elections/29321
 


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: Hatman 🍁 on January 17, 2012, 11:33:23 PM
The Dipper MP for Nunavut defected to the Grits in the early '80s. Though given that the Grits were then led by a social democrat, not a huge difference.



Dont forget Angela Vatour, who switched to the PCs in the late 90s.

But, there have been a small number to switch our way. I know Alex Cullen crossed the floor in the Ontario Assembly from Lib to NDP.


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: Hatman 🍁 on January 17, 2012, 11:40:52 PM
Talk about overkill. Sheesh, you'd think one of the vedettes defected from all this hysteria.

http://www.theglobeandmail.com/news/politics/ottawa-notebook/ndp-hits-back-at-quebec-defector-with-robo-calls-online-petition/article2305862/

That's awesome, I hope it worked.

As for the NDP being so domatic. Well sure, it's a party of ideology. So are the Tories. If you hate ideology, then vote Liberal. I'm very ideological, and while I don't agree with the NDP on everything, I can at least know that with the NDP, they would stand up for what they believe in (which for the most part, is the same as me). The Liberals on the other hand would waver too and fro, supporting some of the things I like but some things I hate.

Look at McGuinty... he was more pragmatic when it came to raising the minimum wage, which I think was better than the NDP's approach. But then he did stupid stuff like implement doggy-genocide with the pitbull ban. Of course, there are other examples, but for some reason that's what I'm most reminded of.


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: Teddy (IDS Legislator) on January 18, 2012, 06:25:06 AM
All the Liberal meetings I've been to were about strategy, sales, marketing, "how to win".

The one Conservative meeting I went to was very wide-ranging, focusing on what policies that would sell in the riding, selling strategies, and fundraising opportunities.


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: RogueBeaver on January 18, 2012, 12:00:15 PM
No bets on the prizefight?


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: Hatman 🍁 on January 18, 2012, 12:02:28 PM
All the Liberal meetings I've been to were about strategy, sales, marketing, "how to win".

The one Conservative meeting I went to was very wide-ranging, focusing on what policies that would sell in the riding, selling strategies, and fundraising opportunities.

Sounds like most NDP meetings I've been to. I bet the NDP in PEI is very different than the rest of the country.


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: Teddy (IDS Legislator) on January 18, 2012, 12:43:13 PM
I'm not sure you catch what I mean. The NDP did talk about how to sell their ideas, but there was always this atmosphere of "because our policies will truly do good"


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: Holmes on January 18, 2012, 12:46:17 PM
... so people in Conservative and Liberal meetings don't believe their policies will do good? Then why advocate for them?


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: Teddy (IDS Legislator) on January 18, 2012, 12:51:56 PM
... so people in Conservative and Liberal meetings don't believe their policies will do good? Then why advocate for them?
They believe that THEY can do good.


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: Holmes on January 19, 2012, 08:38:30 AM
NDP believe that their policies do good, but Liberals and Conservatives believe that they, as persons, do good?

I don't understand what you're saying, man.


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: Teddy (IDS Legislator) on January 19, 2012, 09:37:22 AM
Think Mother Teresa VS a Flower Child.


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: Hatman 🍁 on January 19, 2012, 11:28:18 PM
Harper and wife estranged?

Here is an article from last month about their Christmas card: http://www.vancouverobserver.com/politics/news/2011/12/13/spot-error-christmas-card

Apparently there is a rumour that Laureen is had a lesbian affair with an RCMP officer: http://thepinkelephant.ca/archives/8018

I don't know if that's true of course (it's a rumour), but I don't disbelieve it. Like the article says, Canadian media don't have the same courage to break a story like this than in the US.  Americans get wienergate, but in Canada we get rumours spread on the grape vine. (The same goes for the sexuality of a couple of politicians like John Baird and our mayor, Jim Watson)


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: Teddy (IDS Legislator) on January 20, 2012, 12:24:32 PM
there is a rumour that Laureen is had a lesbian affair with an RCMP officer

I laughed so hard at reading this that I needed to use my asthma puffer just to be able to breathe properly.


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: Hatman 🍁 on January 20, 2012, 01:13:51 PM
That was pretty much my reaction when I heard about it.


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: RogueBeaver on January 20, 2012, 04:31:56 PM
Hebert: no dominant Quebec figures. At least none who are making their star power felt right now- but they are here.

http://www.thestar.com/article/1118895--hebert-lack-of-leadership-material-pushes-quebec-into-unpredictable-terrain


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: RogueBeaver on January 21, 2012, 10:05:49 PM
Ontario PCs back in the lead, 41-33. Though after running a campaign that made Rick Perry's look brilliant in comparison, I don't get much pleasure out of said poll.

http://www.thestar.com/news/canada/article/1119068--new-ontario-poll-puts-tories-ahead-of-liberals


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: Teddy (IDS Legislator) on January 21, 2012, 10:15:14 PM
PC Party in first, Hudak in third. Clearly the party needs a competent leader. If they can find one even I might back them.


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: RogueBeaver on January 21, 2012, 10:21:31 PM
I would as well, but Hudak's the only available Blue. Bad enough that we have a lousy Red in Alberta, sure as heck don't need one in Ontario.


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: Hatman 🍁 on January 21, 2012, 10:22:51 PM
Horwath best approvals!


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: RogueBeaver on January 21, 2012, 10:35:08 PM

Everyone always likes the third party leader best. Look at Layton's when Dippers were in 3rd.


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: Holmes on January 22, 2012, 09:43:04 AM
I think Hudak being unpopular hurts the NDP a bit more than the Liberals, as it motivates center and left of center voters to vote Liberal. At least if McGuinty were the unpopular one (well, he is, but not the most), then those swing voters would look to Horwath.

*shrug* The next election's not for another while, so whatever.


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: RogueBeaver on January 22, 2012, 11:27:07 AM
For once I agree with him.

http://www.torontosun.com/2012/01/20/stop-whining-about-political-impudence-and-fight-back

Thanks for the ad material.

http://www.kelownacapnews.com/news/137830423.html


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: Hatman 🍁 on January 22, 2012, 02:42:02 PM

Everyone always likes the third party leader best. Look at Layton's when Dippers were in 3rd.

I think Harper usually had higher approvals than Layton. 


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: MaxQue on January 22, 2012, 05:07:03 PM
Gérard Deltell is not agreeing than the 3rd party leader is the most popular.


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: RogueBeaver on January 22, 2012, 07:43:21 PM
Duceppe confirms his retirement for good.

http://www.theglobeandmail.com/news/politics/in-wake-of-probe-report-duceppe-says-hes-finished-with-active-politics/article2310851/


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: Teddy (IDS Legislator) on January 22, 2012, 09:46:42 PM
Gérard Deltell is not agreeing than the 3rd party leader is the most popular.
Aye, nor is Raj Sherman, or... um.... the Green?/Conservative? leader in BC, or the... uh... Liberal?/Green? leader in Saskatchewan.... Victor something? Nor is the... Liberal?? leader in Manitoba, or the NDP leader in NB (whoever that is these days) or the... uh... insert-third-placed-party in Nova Scotia... or the ... Greens? on PEI??

At least Lorraine Michael is popular!! whoo!!!


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: Hatman 🍁 on January 22, 2012, 09:57:23 PM
Gérard Deltell is not agreeing than the 3rd party leader is the most popular.
Aye, nor is Raj Sherman, or... um.... the Green?/Conservative? leader in BC, or the... uh... Liberal?/Green? leader in Saskatchewan.... Victor something? Nor is the... Liberal?? leader in Manitoba, or the NDP leader in NB (whoever that is these days) or the... uh... insert-third-placed-party in Nova Scotia... or the ... Greens? on PEI??

At least Lorraine Michael is popular!! whoo!!!

NDP leader of NB is Dominic Cardy. ;)

Lorraine Michael was actually polling lower than her party oddly enough. She seems charismatic, so I dont get it. But then again, I dont consider the NDP to be the third party in NL.

And, Im sure the Tory leader in NS has to be at least somewhat popular?


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: RogueBeaver on January 22, 2012, 10:29:08 PM
I meant at the federal level. Rae is more popular than Harper, even in Ontario.


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: Hatman 🍁 on January 22, 2012, 10:34:31 PM
I meant at the federal level. Rae is more popular than Harper, even in Ontario.

Obviously. I mean, Rae is hated by quite a few people here, but many have forgotten his reign of terror on this province. But even those who hate Rae with a passion (like myself), still would prefer him over Harper.

Now, once the attack ads start reminding people in Ontario of what Rae did, say goodbye to a lot of Liberal votes... but where will they go? They wont trust either the NDP or the Tories.

Then there is the new generation who doesn't remember Rae. But they will probably vote NDP.


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: Teddy (IDS Legislator) on January 22, 2012, 10:45:53 PM
Baille or something is the NSPC leader, and he's been attacked for being right-wing (too right-wing). PEI Greens is Labchuck, MB Lib either is or was Gerrard (did he resign?), SK Greens is Victor Lau and Liberals is/was Ryan Bater, BC Greens is Sterk and Tories is Cummins. I was joking to make a point :P


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: Teddy (IDS Legislator) on January 22, 2012, 10:48:38 PM
A lot of the mistrust of Rae from the left is that he was a sell out, and was not left-wing enough. I do think that centre-left people would be willing to vote NDP if anti-Rae TV commercials shake them off the Liberals.


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: RogueBeaver on January 22, 2012, 10:54:38 PM
Yeah, the left doesn't like when one of their own defects. When the 3 Wise Men defected in '65 certainly no vitriol was spared from the Dipper side.


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: Hatman 🍁 on January 22, 2012, 11:40:51 PM
I don't like Rae because he destroyed the ONDP for nearly 2 decades. We are only now starting to rebuild.


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: RogueBeaver on January 23, 2012, 12:05:10 AM
Coderre and Garneau have presided over the political neutering of Pelciquisme- both should've been gone long ago.


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: RogueBeaver on January 24, 2012, 04:29:31 PM
PM vows "aggressive action" @ summit w/AFN.

http://www.theglobeandmail.com/news/politics/harper-rules-out-total-repeal-of-indian-act-vows-aggressive-action/article2312916/

A bit too hasty, methinks. Down, but not yet out.

http://www.thestar.com/article/1119997--the-window-for-sovereignty-that-opened-in-1990-is-now-closed

Hmm...

http://www.ledevoir.com/politique/canada/340976/vivian-barbot-a-quitte-la-vice-presidence-du-bloc


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: Holmes on January 25, 2012, 12:33:14 PM
Fwiw, and it's not worth much, http://www.harrisdecima.ca/sites/default/files/releases/2012/01/25/hd-2012-01-25-en1297.pdf.

If I would have to guess, I'd say the Conservatives' support that came from the Liberals in the last election have returned back, whereas the NDP's Liberal support hasn't. NDP down in Quebec (still ahead by double digits), and ahead in BC and tied in Manitoba/Saskatchewan. Libs up in the Atlantic - a bit surprising. Small subsample, I'm sure.


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: RogueBeaver on January 25, 2012, 12:56:56 PM
In seats this means...?


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: Hatman 🍁 on January 25, 2012, 03:26:35 PM
I dont remember them  having a poll where the NDP was ahead of the Tories?


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: Хahar 🤔 on January 25, 2012, 08:10:16 PM

I was curious, so I applied a uniform regional swing to each riding. I got these results:

()

In other words:

Conservative: 119 seats (-47), 32.2% (-7.4%)
New Democratic: 105 seats (+2), 28.8% (-1.8%)
Liberal: 75 seats (+41), 25.2% (+6.3%)
Bloc Québécois: 8 seats (+4), 5.7% (-0.3%)
Green: 1 seat (nc), 7.1% (+3.2%)


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: RogueBeaver on January 25, 2012, 08:42:14 PM
Thankfully the election isn't for another 4 years. For now it looks like the only way to knock the NDP back down is for the BQ vote to rise again. Not enough to win seats, but enough for we Tories to do well in ROQ by sneaking up the middle.


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: World politics is up Schmitt creek on January 25, 2012, 09:36:25 PM
Remember, this is going to be out of 338 seats, Xahar.


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: Хahar 🤔 on January 25, 2012, 09:44:41 PM
Remember, this is going to be out of 338 seats, Xahar.

I would need notional results to calculate that.


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: Teddy (IDS Legislator) on January 25, 2012, 11:10:24 PM
Uniform swing is the worst way possible to predict canadian elections.


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: RogueBeaver on January 25, 2012, 11:16:37 PM
Uniform swing is the worst way possible to predict canadian elections.

Agreed, but what seat configuration would your model divine from these numbers?


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: Teddy (IDS Legislator) on January 26, 2012, 12:48:26 AM
My model has the problem of not yet being complete :P

http://esm.ubc.ca/CA15/forecast.php

The easiest way to do it is to go to this link.

Don't do any swing, just reduce each party below 1.000

Then re-balance each province, so that the pop vote equals the poll.

In reality, the whole ElectoMatic is just a fancy machine that does what I've just explained. I built it to save myself time and so I could do these calcs offline.


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: Teddy (IDS Legislator) on January 26, 2012, 12:54:35 AM
Until then I trust my co-blogger
http://blunt-objects.blogspot.com/2012/01/hd-poll-32-29-25.html


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: Хahar 🤔 on January 26, 2012, 01:19:00 AM
Uniform swing is the worst way possible to predict canadian elections.

Oh, of course. It's purely for fun. I even made this map:

()


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: Smid on January 26, 2012, 04:46:12 AM
The Liberals being forced to prop up a minority government as the third party would be disaster for them. They'd either alienate progressive voters or non-progressive voters, either way, very difficult for them. On the other hand, a Liberal resurgence, displacing the NDP as the dominant non-Tory party, is the easiest way for the Conservatives to slip across the line for a second majority government.


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: Teddy (IDS Legislator) on January 26, 2012, 07:04:24 AM
If the Liberals were to sell themselves properly - IE as the pill to keep the government sane, whatever it's stripe - then this could gain support in the party. I would certainly back the idea.


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: Hash on January 26, 2012, 07:50:49 AM
Uniform swing is the worst way possible to predict canadian elections.

Oh, of course. It's purely for fun. I even made this map:

()

It's sweet to see my riding painted red. Just the thought of there being a tiny possibility of replacing my retarded MP with anybody else is pleasing.


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: RogueBeaver on January 26, 2012, 07:57:10 AM
Hey, at least you don't have a carpetbagging orange poteau as your MP.

This Duceppe scandal expands daily. Now it's shades of Jim Wright/Newt Gingrich.

http://www.torontosun.com/2012/01/26/duceppe-used-commons-cash-to-fund-vanity-book


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: Holmes on January 26, 2012, 08:06:47 AM
lol, NDP winning seven seats in Saskatchewan? No way.

It's sweet to see my riding painted red. Just the thought of there being a tiny possibility of replacing my retarded MP with anybody else is pleasing.

Grits would benefit a lot from tying the Conservatives in Ontario. If Rae is chosen as leader, I don't think that'll ever happen, at least not in the next election.


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: Хahar 🤔 on January 26, 2012, 06:19:35 PM
Today I made a little chart concerning electoral cooperation between the Liberals and NDP:

()

If every Liberal voter had voted for a combined Liberal/NDP outfit in 2011, that party would have won 186 seats to 121 Conservative. If all of them had voted Tory, they would have 224 seats and there would only be 81 Liberal/NDP seats. If half had voted Liberal/NDP and half Conservative, there would have been 190 Conservative seats and 116 Liberal/NDP seats. I think the chart is pretty straightforward.


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: Teddy (IDS Legislator) on January 26, 2012, 06:25:20 PM
I would not support a merged party with the NDP unless it had really moderate and centrist ideals. I'd rather support the Conservatives.


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: Хahar 🤔 on January 26, 2012, 07:00:14 PM
I would not support a merged party with the NDP unless it had really moderate and centrist ideals. I'd rather support the Conservatives.

Yes, and assuming over 20% of Liberal voters agreed with you in this matter (which seems almost certain to me), such a merger wouldn't have prevented a Conservative majority in the last election.


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: bgwah on January 26, 2012, 07:03:49 PM
How did you calculate that?


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: RogueBeaver on January 26, 2012, 07:09:35 PM
Hey, Blue Grits are always more than welcome in our tent. Among other things, imagine the NDP Quebec caucus sharing a caucus room with Dion and Trudeau. Not a recipe for harmony, methinks.


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: Хahar 🤔 on January 26, 2012, 07:40:23 PM

I calculated the winner of each constituency in 101 cases (adding 0% of the Liberal vote to the Tories and 100% to the NDP, then adding 1% of the Liberal vote to the Tories and 99% to the NDP, then 2%, then 3%, etc.) and summed the results and put them in a table, which I graphed. With the aid of a spreadsheet, it only took two hours. I'm very pleased with how it turned out.

If anyone cares, I can send the spreadsheet.


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: Smid on January 26, 2012, 10:49:55 PM

I calculated the winner of each constituency in 101 cases (adding 0% of the Liberal vote to the Tories and 100% to the NDP, then adding 1% of the Liberal vote to the Tories and 99% to the NDP, then 2%, then 3%, etc.) and summed the results and put them in a table, which I graphed. With the aid of a spreadsheet, it only took two hours. I'm very pleased with how it turned out.

If anyone cares, I can send the spreadsheet.

Beautiful work!


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: RogueBeaver on January 28, 2012, 01:18:04 PM
I certainly hope Harper moves ahead with this.

http://www.thestar.com/article/1122814--prime-minister-stephen-harper-vow-to-reform-retirement-benefits-may-upset-some-canadians

Ex-ce-llent.

http://www.thestar.com/news/canada/article/1122176--free-trade-british-pm-david-cameron-urges-eu-to-obtain-speedy-pact-with-canadacameron-wants-a-free-trade-deal-by-year-end-to-open-up-export-markets-for-the-european-union-s-27-member-countries

Huh?

http://www.thestar.com/news/canada/politics/article/1122573--hebert-fight-over-the-2012-federal-budget-will-take-place-on-the-larger-stage-of-public-opinion


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: MaxQue on January 28, 2012, 01:55:06 PM
I oppose free trade with if EU doesn't back off on imposing the same rules than in EU on state monopolies and obligations to deal with the private sector for all.

In my city, the right-wing mayor cancelled the garbage collection and the snow removal contracts with the private (the first because they were charging inflated prices, the second because the quality of their job was very low and there was having much complains). Under EU rules, cities would be forced to ask to the private to do it.

For retirement reform, well, hey, good luck getting retirees' votes next time. He is underestimating the retiree lobby power. He won't be able to shut them as he do with all opponents. And he can't do as he did with natives and ecologists, calling them ennemies of Canada.


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: RogueBeaver on January 28, 2012, 03:00:57 PM
Fat chance of a Liberal victory, though I would be very happy to see Kennedy back in the House.

http://www.ottawacitizen.com/news/Liberal%2Bbattle%2Bbrews%2Bover%2BLayton%2Briding/6065218/story.html



Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: Hatman 🍁 on January 28, 2012, 06:02:40 PM
David Miller is a Liberal now?


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: RogueBeaver on January 29, 2012, 12:12:15 PM
Major Grit gains.

http://www.ctv.ca/CTVNews/TopStories/20120128/nanos-poll-liberals-tories-globe-CTV-20120128/


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: Hatman 🍁 on January 29, 2012, 01:08:14 PM
Nanos is a hack pollster.


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: RogueBeaver on January 29, 2012, 01:22:08 PM
I call BS on those Grit Quebec numbers. No way are they top dog here. And they won't get it by whining about the gun registry either.


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: RogueBeaver on January 29, 2012, 02:22:30 PM
Shafia trial: GUILTY.

http://www.cbc.ca/news/canada/montreal/story/2012/01/29/shafia-sunday.html


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: Teddy (IDS Legislator) on January 29, 2012, 05:31:08 PM
I call BS on those Grit Quebec numbers. No way are they top dog here. And they won't get it by whining about the gun registry either.
Here is something I said on Blunt Objects
Quote
This is not directed at the above, or, at anyone in particular, but rather at everyone, and, I will say it in allcaps.

INDIVIDUAL POLLS ARE MEANINGLESS. THE ONLY THING THAT MATTERS IS POLLING AVERAGES FROM AT LEAST 5 DIFFERENT POLLS FROM AT LEAST 5 DIFFERENT COMPANIES. - AND IF YOU NEED A COMPARISON, YOU NEED AT LEAST 5 OTHER DIFFERENT POLLS FROM AT LEAST 5 OTHER DIFFERENT COMPANIES TO BE CERTAIN.

I've tried to say that subtly for the past number of years, but a little allcaps cant hurt.

A note that the 5 companies from your second set CAN indeed be the same as the 5 companies from your first set. And if there are only 4 companies, or 3 etc doing polls for your province, then use what you got. PEI often only has 2 companies doing polls at election time, but the rule of golden 5's still holds, you really need at least 5 different polls to get a true average, even if you are forced to use polls from the same company. Also date is important, anything going back too far ruins it.

Put in simple terms:
One poll is meaningless
Two polls from the same company are meaningless
Two polls from different companies mean a LITTLE
three polls from different companies mean more, etc etc et


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: RogueBeaver on January 29, 2012, 05:33:29 PM
NDP has been on a middling decline since October, so the trend is clearly established. I won't believe the Grits are in second nationally (and definitely not first in Quebec) until we see more data.


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: RogueBeaver on January 29, 2012, 09:27:15 PM
This is a logical extension of their oilsands policy, so we appreciate you coming around.

http://cnews.canoe.ca/CNEWS/Politics/2012/01/29/19310301.html


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: Teddy (IDS Legislator) on January 30, 2012, 02:40:14 AM
Thank GOD that the Liberals are finally putting the breaks on this stupid move to the left.

Harper calls us left-wing once, and Liberals are like "yea, we are left wing!"


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: RogueBeaver on January 30, 2012, 03:14:18 PM
Leger confirms the NDP Quebec decline, though it's now a 29-29 tie with the BQ. Liberals 16, Tories 14.

QP today: More exchanges on Gateway, pensions and F-35s. Finley pwned Brison when he attacked us from the left on pensions, noting that the Liberals had voted against income-splitting and several other boosts to senior programs. I need not say who was the real LOTO and who had the title today, that certainly hasn't changed in 6 weeks.


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: RogueBeaver on January 30, 2012, 03:28:09 PM
Note to Dippers: Put Laverdiere in Foreign Affairs, where she belongs.

Note to Grits: Check your voting records before critiquing other people's. This isn't the first time Brison lost an exchange with Finley because he didn't check his voting record- surprising considering his reputation for thoroughness.

Note to my fellow Tories: Don't attack Grits from the left on deficit issues, as the PM did in an exchange with Rae today.


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: MaxQue on January 30, 2012, 04:07:08 PM
Oh, surprise!

Liberals were caught being inconsistent.
Not surprising when you campaign on the left and govern at the right.


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: RogueBeaver on January 30, 2012, 04:32:50 PM
No, in this case they were consistent- they voted to our left, attacked us from the left, Finley counterattacked from the centre. It just surprised me coming from Brison of all people. Usually he critiques us from the right on fiscal issues, which I welcome.


Liberals/energy: Heh, this is wishy-washy compared to 3 years ago when Trudeau came out for the oilsands as a "cornerstone of our economy."

()


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: RogueBeaver on January 30, 2012, 09:03:40 PM
More on pensions.

http://fullcomment.nationalpost.com/2012/01/30/john-ivison-tories-flat-footed-on-pension-reform/

http://fullcomment.nationalpost.com/2012/01/30/andrew-coyne-stephen-harpers-long-overdue-talk-about-canadas-pension-crisis/


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: RogueBeaver on January 30, 2012, 10:11:39 PM
For once, I completely disagree. PQ resurgence has more to do with Marois winning her leadership wars and CAQ becoming "meh" than anything the federal parties have done.

http://www.thestar.com/article/1123762--hebert-pq-poses-peril-as-bad-news-budget-looms


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: RogueBeaver on January 31, 2012, 10:53:07 AM
I won't link, but since That Place has done a projection based on the two new polls, can someone here do one with their own model?


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: Teddy (IDS Legislator) on January 31, 2012, 01:50:54 PM
Yes, give me 5 15 minutes


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: Teddy (IDS Legislator) on January 31, 2012, 02:06:51 PM
atlantic
Lib-16
CPC-9
NDP-7

Quebec
NDP-34
Lib-21
BQ-12
CPC-8

Ontario
CPC-51
Lib-41
NDP-14

Prairies
CPC-37
NDP-12
Lib-7

BC
CPC-19
NDP-11
Lib-5
Grn-1

TR (unchanged)
CPC-2
NDP-1

CANADA
CPC-126
Lib-90
NDP-79
BQ-12
Grn-1


To replicate the BC results, go to

and put in .57 for the CPC, NDP, and Grn

COMING UP: QUEBEC MAP


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: Teddy (IDS Legislator) on January 31, 2012, 02:14:18 PM

()

Yes Outremont.
Yes Laurier.

...According to the raw math.
I expect that both would be retained by the NDP given the candidates and their stature. The ElectoMatic allowed me to make individual riding adjustments, but the forecaster does not.


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: MaxQue on February 01, 2012, 01:12:26 PM
Senator Boisvenu (a stupid guy whose daughters has been killed and became a "victims rights campaigner", even if he doesn't make consensus at all, because he doesn't give a damn about victims, he only cares about vengeance and honestly needs a therapy, not a policital office) said than "each murderer should have a rope in his cell".

I think he should retire and take a therapy and stop tarnishing his name in the public place, because it looks pathetic and quite sad.


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: RogueBeaver on February 01, 2012, 01:18:05 PM
2011 fundraising: 1) Tories ...... 2) Grits 3) Dippers.

http://www.theglobeandmail.com/news/politics/ottawa-notebook/tories-lead-fundraising-race-while-liberals-get-a-cash-boost/article2322575/


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: RogueBeaver on February 01, 2012, 03:30:27 PM
Pensions, jets, and more pensions.

Today's notes:

Finley is underrated and should get promoted at the next shuffle. Same goes for Raitt and Ambrose.

NDP needs to develop a B-team in their A-team's absence. Of the frosh, only Boulerice has solidly established himself as an A-teamer.

Still don't understand why the PM attacks from the left on deficit issues.

Kirsty Duncan is annoying as all hell.

Put Trudeau back on the frontbench.


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: MaxQue on February 01, 2012, 03:51:33 PM
Lisa Raitt?

Mrs. Cancer is sexy?


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: RogueBeaver on February 01, 2012, 04:06:41 PM
Eh, one minor gaffe. (Remember Honourgate?) Harper's female ministers are generally underrated, and none of them sit on P&P.

More thoughts...

In retrospect, Fantino was a much better candidate than minister.

Give Oda a committee chairmanship as a prelude to retirement, and if that useless ministry is to be kept give it to Alexander.


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: Hash on February 01, 2012, 07:09:08 PM
Anybody could see that Fantino was a full-of-sh**t idiot from day one. It's also disgusting that stupid fraud Bev Oda is still allowed anywhere near cabinet. But Steve has never been one for accountability.


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: RogueBeaver on February 01, 2012, 07:27:53 PM
He doesn't gaffe but is completely ineffective in the House. Dunno what he's like as an administrator, given that his job is a rather pointless one (like literally half the Cabinet posts). Then one remembers another infamous Tory occupant of that post... Pierre Sevigny, and I'm not talking about Munsinger either.

Oda: Apparently she's a good administrator but horrible communicator. Nonetheless, I agree that she shouldn't be in Cabinet- even before NOT.

Other women who I think will do well: Rempel, Glover and Adams.


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: Хahar 🤔 on February 01, 2012, 09:57:25 PM
One of the more interesting things about the 2011 election results was the way the Liberals were killed in Quebec outside Montreal Island. If they have no appeal outside the city, that's not good news for them; even if they rebound in the polls there, that lack of appeal gives them a definite ceiling. There are ridings where they got the sort of numbers that the NDP got in Quebec fifteen years ago.

I think the West will be important for the NDP at the next election, even more than Quebec. The Tories can keep winning by enormous margins in Alberta, but the rest of the Prairies are different, and the NDP is the only real opposition party there. Saskatchewan in particular is one place where I would expect big NDP gains in 2015; the NDP would gain a few seats right away assuming that a fair map is drawn, and voters there won't be voting against a provincial NDP government (like in Manitoba and Nova Scotia this last election), since the SaskTories ought to still be in power.


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: RogueBeaver on February 01, 2012, 10:45:16 PM
The Montreal thing is not new- the same happened in 2006/8. Trudeau is spot-on when he said that the Grits need to make a "values voters" (my paraphrase) pitch to Quebec. That doesn't mean whining about the registry ad infinitum. IMO it means reminding Quebecers that socially, they're on the same team and economically, Brisonism is the best way of sustaining the badly creaking Quebec (Orange) Model.

NDP: West is irrelevant for now. If they lose Quebec then they're back in 3rd no matter what.

Messaging aside, the Pelciquistes are weak for 3 reasons. 1) Organization. 2) Money. 3) Time Investment. When Coderre pulled that idiotic stunt 3 years ago (which nearly got him expelled from caucus for rank insubordination), Iggy stripped him of all the lieutenant's traditional powers except that of caucus liaison to the Pelciquiste executive. Unelected bureaucrats whom the electorate has never heard of are the ones operating what's left.

Coderre was replaced by Garneau, who's a nice guy but has no fundraising or organizational ability- plus absolutely no power over the bureaucrats. Hell, he nearly lost his own seat to a poteau.

Fundraising: No one donates to losers.

Time Investment: All the time was spent on candidate recruitment and almost nothing on actually developing constituency organizations. You find some grassroots activists who have organizational ability, create a nucleus, and come out to support them once in a while. Spend time touring the province, listen to voters. It took Harper 3 years just to get 10 seats. Rae has promised to spend a lot of time here this year, so he's doing that part right.


Coderre could have done this stuff, but did the exact opposite and bungled it. Garneau has also failed, and doesn't have the assertive personality required for this job (Previous holders include Lapierre, Ouellet, Lalonde, Marchand- alphas all). The only one who has the skills and knows what needs to be done... is the only one who Rae doesn't trust. A pity, but that's the way things are.


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: MaxQue on February 02, 2012, 12:21:26 AM
To give an idea of the problems of the Liberals, they had found a good candidate for my riding in 2008 (a former mayor of the main city), but, as they refused to commit money for his campaign, he declined.

Usually, those kinds of details doesn't go public, but they decided to write his name on the Liberal website anyways and saying to local media than he was their candidate.

He wasn't happy of that and didn't ran..


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: Teddy (IDS Legislator) on February 02, 2012, 09:51:38 AM
Senator Boisvenu (a stupid guy whose daughters has been killed and became a "victims rights campaigner", even if he doesn't make consensus at all, because he doesn't give a damn about victims, he only cares about vengeance and honestly needs a therapy, not a policital office) said than "each murderer should have a rope in his cell".

I think he should retire and take a therapy and stop tarnishing his name in the public place, because it looks pathetic and quite sad.

I'm more upset that he took back his good idea


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: RogueBeaver on February 02, 2012, 03:12:29 PM
Pensions, staged citizenship ceremonies, crime and Gateway. Nothing particularly interesting.


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: MaxQue on February 02, 2012, 03:37:00 PM
What is Gateway? I follow things, but it is remembering me nothing. I suppose it i called another way in French?

Or that is the oleoduc project in BC?


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: Hatman 🍁 on February 02, 2012, 03:41:01 PM
That's the pipeline debacle.


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: RogueBeaver on February 02, 2012, 04:02:23 PM
Gateway is the pipeline through northern BC.

Oh, and Pat Martin dropped another F-bomb on Twitter, this one directed at Boisvenu.

CSD: Yep, that's Coderre all right.


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: Teddy (IDS Legislator) on February 02, 2012, 11:07:52 PM
Interesting terminology. I wonder what'd happen in Harper tried to ram it though the house.


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: RogueBeaver on February 05, 2012, 01:50:56 PM
Toronto-Danforth scheduled for March 12.

http://www.theglobeandmail.com/news/politics/by-election-in-laytons-riding-scheduled-for-march-12/article2327105/


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: RogueBeaver on February 06, 2012, 03:01:02 PM
TO-Danforth pushed back to March 19.

http://www.thestar.com/news/canada/politics/article/1127004--toronto-danforth-by-election-delayed-a-week


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: RogueBeaver on February 06, 2012, 03:10:21 PM
Pensions, pensions, Caterpillar, pensions, hidden agenda.


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: RogueBeaver on February 07, 2012, 03:57:51 PM
Pensions, pensions, Caterpillar, pensions, hidden agenda.


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: Hash on February 07, 2012, 07:25:07 PM
Some retarded Purgatory blowhard also compared Allan Rock to Adolf Hitler. Words can't express my love for this oh-so-unifying government.


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: RogueBeaver on February 08, 2012, 03:22:25 PM
Pensions, hidden agenda, pensions, aboriginal education.

Notable exchanges: cheap mutual shots by Rae and MacKay.



Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: cinyc on February 08, 2012, 05:36:33 PM
2011 Census Data released (http://www.theglobeandmail.com/news/national/interactive-your-2011-census-at-a-glance/article2326515/).

Calgary and Edmonton grew fastest, followed by Saskatoon.  Saskatchewan grew for the first time in over a decade, as did Newfoundland and Labrador.  Tories hold most of the most overpopulated ridings (http://www.canada.com/technology/Tories+could+benefit+census+points+ridings/6119805/story.html).


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: RogueBeaver on February 08, 2012, 08:05:54 PM
Puh-leeze. Though there are some pro-choicers personally opposed to abortion in that caucus, most prominently Trudeau.

http://www.theglobeandmail.com/news/politics/liberals-fear-pro-lifers-trying-to-take-over-weakened-federal-party/article2331586/singlepage/#articlecontent


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: RogueBeaver on February 09, 2012, 03:17:13 PM
Pensions, military procurement, pensions, Sino-Canadian trade.

Notable exchanges: Same as yesterday.


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: RogueBeaver on February 09, 2012, 07:54:38 PM
Still vile trolling no matter how you cut it.

http://www.canada.com/news/Tandt%2BLiberals%2Bunderestimate%2Bgruff%2Brural%2BTory%2Bwith%2Bground/6128220/story.html


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: RogueBeaver on February 10, 2012, 12:35:21 PM
Can any Ontarians decipher this OPC inside baseball?

http://www.theglobeandmail.com/news/politics/adam-radwanski/leadership-review-wont-be-hudaks-top-concern-at-pc-convention/article2333738/

After running a campaign worthy of Rick Perry's presidential bid, probation is the very least Hudak deserves.

http://www.thestar.com/news/canada/politics/article/1128295--cohn-hudak-will-win-pc-vote-but-stay-on-probation

We know that Dalton. Tell us whether you'll be the wimphand or the whiphand. Personally I expect the former.

http://www.thestar.com/news/canada/politics/article/1128970--potential-labour-strife-looms-in-ontario-deficit-fight-dalton-mcguinty-warns


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: RogueBeaver on February 10, 2012, 03:05:16 PM
Two elections away, and quite possibly a non-Tory government.

http://www.theglobeandmail.com/news/politics/changes-to-oas-wont-take-effect-before-2020-flaherty-says/article2334314/


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: RogueBeaver on February 10, 2012, 03:17:29 PM
That new poll has Tories 36, NDP 28, Grits 26. In Quebec a 4-way tie: Grits 28, NDP 25, Tories 24, BQ 20.

Can someone do some maps and/or projections if they have the time?


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: Хahar 🤔 on February 10, 2012, 04:35:12 PM
Those numbers smell fishy, Quebec in particular. You're in Quebec; what do you make of them?


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: RogueBeaver on February 10, 2012, 04:54:44 PM
The overall trend is believable, but I can't see where the Quebec Grit bubble would be coming from. As I've written before, they have nothing on the ground* and haven't invested any real effort here. In terms of seats, I'd expect their return to the 2006/8 status quo ante (13 seats, 16%), but not much more than that.

Nationally the trend has been repeatedly confirmed. Bob Rae is LOTO in all but name and more often than not the Liberal Shadow Cabinet outguns their NDP counterpart. Once the NDP A-team returns and they get a new leader it will be basically an even match.

If you want my whole spiel on the Grits' Quebec woes, 'tis earlier in the thread.

*Rae has promised to do a full-scale tour later this year and Trudeau usually does quarterly speaking tours. Neither of which are organizational work...


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: RogueBeaver on February 10, 2012, 05:48:53 PM
Pensions, trade, hidden agenda.


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: RogueBeaver on February 11, 2012, 03:42:36 PM
In BC, the Dippers extend their lead over the Grits to 16, 42-26-19.

http://www.theprovince.com/news/Latest+poll+predicts+voters+would+toss+Liberals+election+held+today/6045993/story.html


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: Holmes on February 12, 2012, 09:44:54 AM
()


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: RogueBeaver on February 12, 2012, 04:11:36 PM
Hudak wins his leadership review.

http://www.thestar.com/news/canada/politics/article/1129916--at-tory-leadership-review-tim-hudak-s-reinvention-pledge-wins-votes-cohn


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: RogueBeaver on February 13, 2012, 12:52:26 PM
Hasn't it always been this way though? Mutual indifference or near-venomous hostility? I for one don't think the former is at all a bad thing. Anyone who thinks love and roses will ever bloosom is, IMO, either ignorant or naive.

http://www.theglobeandmail.com/news/politics/lysiane-gagnon/the-two-solitudes-get-more-solitary/article2334620/

*Facepalm*

http://www.thespec.com/opinion/columns/article/670051--trudeau-s-boxing-bout-a-big-risk


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: RogueBeaver on February 13, 2012, 03:13:52 PM
Gun registry vote on Wednesday. I assume the rural opposition members will be whipped as usual.

http://www.cbc.ca/news/politics/story/2012/02/13/pol-gun-registry-third-reading.html


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: RogueBeaver on February 13, 2012, 05:59:53 PM
Today's QP: aboriginal issues and pensions. Can't wait till the budget comes down to shift this boring narrative.


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: MaxQue on February 13, 2012, 06:20:59 PM
Well, they talk about actual problems.

The whole Native system needs a majot overhull and government, despite what it is saying, will mess with pensions in a way or another.


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: RogueBeaver on February 13, 2012, 06:47:33 PM
Attawapiskat aside, I'm quite happy with the government's aboriginal policy. Harper's taking an etapiste approach which might finally bring results. As for pensions, no one knows for sure when the changes will take place. Though the Grits beclown themselves by attacking changes they themselves proposed back in the '90s. Rae is making a potentially very dangerous strategic error, looking ahead to 2015, if he decides that the votes lost are Orange rather than Blue Liberals. For now it's a correctable tactical error.


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: Hatman 🍁 on February 13, 2012, 06:54:15 PM
In BC, the Dippers extend their lead over the Grits to 16, 42-26-19.

http://www.theprovince.com/news/Latest+poll+predicts+voters+would+toss+Liberals+election+held+today/6045993/story.html

Sweet Jesus. We almost have more than the combined right wing vote.


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: MaxQue on February 13, 2012, 10:13:37 PM
Vic Toews is saying than people opposing the new Internet law, autorising police to get IP addresses without the authorisation of a judge, are allies of paedophiles.

Roque, I hope you don't agree with that?


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: RogueBeaver on February 13, 2012, 10:39:31 PM
Of course not. I was just as appalled when Harper personally accused Martin of being soft on child porn back in '04.



Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: MaxQue on February 13, 2012, 11:52:31 PM
Anyways, that kind of argument isn't good, this week.

Opposition can just answer "By opposing gun control, you are the allies of gun killers".
Not great, but, the level would be the same, i.e. dismal.


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: RogueBeaver on February 14, 2012, 12:13:21 AM
Unfortunately some registry supporters came uncomfortably close to doing just that in December when no Tory MPs were invited to the Polytechnique commemoration. Not just the usual suspects, but normally level-headed MPs like Bennett and Trudeau.

My predictions for next month:

Pensions: Continues as usual, the precise details are announced at budget time. The debate dies a slow death and won't be remembered by summer recess.

Aboriginal issues: Fade slowly unless something else crops up.

F-35; Continues intermittently as it has for the past 2 years.

Le Match: Draw. Though if forced to choose a winner, I would put my pinky on the scale for Brazeau simply because he's more experienced.


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: Hash on February 14, 2012, 09:28:28 AM
Vic Toews is saying than people opposing the new Internet law, autorising police to get IP addresses without the authorisation of a judge, are allies of paedophiles.

Roque, I hope you don't agree with that?

It seems as if this government has just decided to brand all those who disagree with them as "pedos", "radicals", "socialists" or "anti-Canadian". Is this for real?


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: MaxQue on February 14, 2012, 10:19:01 AM
You forgot "extremist ecologist".


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: RogueBeaver on February 14, 2012, 10:21:58 AM
Duceppe already said yesterday he has no regrets.

http://www.cyberpresse.ca/actualites/quebec-canada/politique-canadienne/201202/13/01-4495538-lenquete-sur-gilles-duceppe-elargie.php

I'll be generous and say it was a rare bit of RL trolling.

http://voir.ca/josee-legault/2012/02/12/dun-trudeau-a-lautre/

RL trolling indeed. This happens about once a year with him- last year it was Honourgate.

http://www2.macleans.ca/2012/02/14/scary-hypotheticals-2/


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: MaxQue on February 14, 2012, 10:54:10 AM
Well, his view is shared by me and a few people I know.


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: RogueBeaver on February 14, 2012, 11:13:39 AM
Stephen Harper used a diluted version of that argument in the Firewall Letter. If he'd tweaked it to say "We need all regions to keep our current, moderate, political balance of power" then I'd agree. As the Globe points out, the chances of repealing gay marriage or imposing abortion restrictions are somewhere between zero and nil, so it isn't like this hypothesis will ever be tested. The rest of that interview is mostly restating that leadership will have to wait until his kids are older. In practice, his ambition to renew the family lease on Sussex is entirely dependent on how successful Bob Rae is 3 years from now.

http://www.theglobeandmail.com/news/politics/ottawa-notebook/would-justin-trudeau-separate-from-stephen-harpers-canada-maybe/article2337672/


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: RogueBeaver on February 14, 2012, 11:17:01 AM
On another note, good news from MoD.

http://www.theglobeandmail.com/news/politics/ottawa-notebook/mackay-secures-german-staging-base-for-post-afghan-missions/article2337581/


Not while Dad rules Queen's Park.

http://www.thestar.com/news/canada/politics/article/1130769--drummond-report-sweeping-education-reforms-recommended


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: MaxQue on February 14, 2012, 11:32:17 AM
Stephen Harper used a diluted version of that argument in the Firewall Letter. If he'd tweaked it to say "We need all regions to keep our current, moderate, political balance of power" then I'd agree. As the Globe points out, the chances of repealing gay marriage or imposing abortion restrictions are somewhere between zero and nil, so it isn't like this hypothesis will ever be tested. The rest of that interview is mostly restating that leadership will have to wait until his kids are older. In practice, his ambition to renew the family lease on Sussex is entirely dependent on how successful Bob Rae is 3 years from now.

http://www.theglobeandmail.com/news/politics/ottawa-notebook/would-justin-trudeau-separate-from-stephen-harpers-canada-maybe/article2337672/

I know that. My parents were sure than he would try to screw Quebec because it didn't voted for him.

I said them than no. Harper isn't dumb. He is a fantastic strategist. He knows than screwing Quebec could lead to independance and than messing with gay marriage and abortion would make him lose the moderate vote and would lead to a Tory defeat in 2015.


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: RogueBeaver on February 14, 2012, 03:05:39 PM
Crime bills, jets and constituency issues.


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: Smid on February 14, 2012, 06:28:27 PM

I hear that he's a brilliant chess player and approaches political strategy with a similar "ten moves ahead" long-term strategic view.


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: RogueBeaver on February 14, 2012, 07:02:05 PM
Here's the presser. He concedes everything but the two vital points: separatism references are out of line and that he made a mistake. No one is questioning his patriotism or federalism (double strawmanning), just his political judgment. Properly used, this sort of thing can be very useful to his career- but only if properly used.

http://www.cbc.ca/video/#/News/Politics/1244504890/ID=2196736852





Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: RogueBeaver on February 14, 2012, 07:27:49 PM

I hear that he's a brilliant chess player and approaches political strategy with a similar "ten moves ahead" long-term strategic view.

Indeed, but definitely not on tactics. At least once every few weeks something crops up, as with any government. In French we call that sort of strategic thinking etapisme. It was pioneered here by Sir John A. - I'm slightly paraphrasing but the quote is essentially "I take the long view, but they couldn't forego exulting in a temporary triumph." Layton was also a master of this game, one of the reasons why he and Harper bonded (and enjoyed simultaneous electoral success last year) despite their political differences. Layton's gone. Rae is certainly capable of it, we'll see if he can pull it off. Ditto for Topp and Mulcair.


Not all PMs are like that though. Pierre Trudeau was a good policy strategist on national unity but never cared much about electoral strategy, else he'd have made very different policy choices than he did. Mulroney on most issues was a good policy strategist but in the long term failed at electoral strategy. Chretien was a fantastic tactician but a godawful strategist electorally. Harper's the reverse.


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: Holmes on February 15, 2012, 01:23:14 PM
Why would Trudeau say this!?

http://fullcomment.nationalpost.com/2012/02/14/graeme-hamilton-justin-trudeau-loyal-to-canada-up-to-a-point/


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: RogueBeaver on February 15, 2012, 01:36:48 PM
We just spent the better part of a page discussing that. He's made this point for years, but in an responsible way. We all know he's a consummate dramatist at the best of times. (As he reminded us at the presser) My best guess is that he's bored as a backbencher ever since Rae tossed him from Shadow Cabinet last May and wanted to throw a grenade to stir up trouble. In the medium term, time and responsibility (which depends entirely on Rae's whim) will probably cure him of that hotheadedness, or at least he'll learn how to control it. Absolutely necessary if he's really set on fulfilling his prime ministerial ambition.


http://www.cyberpresse.ca/la-tribune/sherbrooke/201005/12/01-4279688-trudeau-comprend-que-les-quebecois-soient-cyniques.php


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: RogueBeaver on February 15, 2012, 03:29:33 PM
IMO: Pull C-30, keep C-15.

http://www.canada.com/news/Tandt%2BConservatives%2Bcommon%2Bsense%2Bsave%2Bbizarre%2Bcrime%2Bfixation/6152522/story.html

Somewhere between these two. I still think the best slot for him right now is Natural Resources. Nothing to do with "values" and a subject on which he holds explicitly centrist views.

 http://www.theglobeandmail.com/news/politics/second-reading/silver-powers/justin-trudeau-jumps-the-shark/article2339369/

http://blogs.canada.com/2012/02/15/whos-kidding-who-justin-trudeau-could-take-quebec/

I respect Hebert a lot, but this column sounds awfully Simpsonian.

http://www.thestar.com/news/canada/politics/article/1131856--hebert-harper-s-alienation-of-quebec-just-what-the-liberals-need

QP: Jets and pensions.


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: MaxQue on February 15, 2012, 03:49:14 PM
Very ironic than Harper destroyed the Census because it was "invasive on the private life", while C-30 is way more invasive.

And C-15 is probably anticonstituonnal.


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: RogueBeaver on February 15, 2012, 04:02:33 PM
Then either amend C-15 or use the notwithstanding clause. By 2015 most of the SCOC justices will be Harper appointees, so he can reintroduce it then if necessary.

I agree with Toews and Trudeau (partial redemption for yesterday?) here: this sort of sleazy sh**t has no business in our politics.

http://www.theglobeandmail.com/news/politics/ottawa-notebook/anonymous-twitter-user-turns-tables-on-tory-champion-of-e-snooping-bill/article2339463/


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: MaxQue on February 15, 2012, 04:14:42 PM
From what we saw, his appointees are way more often in the majority (of the court) than on the side of the government.


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: RogueBeaver on February 15, 2012, 08:17:07 PM
Fat chance Dad cuts harder than Mike Harris.

http://fullcomment.nationalpost.com/2012/02/15/andrew-coyne-drummond-report-signals-start-of-dalton-mcguintys-lean-years/


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: RogueBeaver on February 15, 2012, 10:48:30 PM
Again?

http://www.edmontonsun.com/2012/02/15/liberal-mp-accuses-ndp-of-dirty-tricks


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: Hatman 🍁 on February 15, 2012, 11:55:44 PM
Excellent. She should have resigned. I respect her right to not want to be an NDPer, but I don't respect her choice to stay in the house with a party she was not elected as a member of.


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: MaxQue on February 16, 2012, 12:00:55 AM
Oh, her, again?

Good thing than such a whiner left the party.


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: RogueBeaver on February 16, 2012, 12:08:33 AM
If nothing else, it would be a useful test of those (IMO, bogus) polls showing the Grits leading here. On the matter of defections we're in agreement. I just don't agree with this sort of harassment, whether it's my party doing it to Cotler or yours doing it to her.



Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: RogueBeaver on February 16, 2012, 12:12:06 AM
It will take a few more years of Dad before this sort of slashing can take place (under a PC government), especially in the so-called "fenced" areas. Mike Harris' premiership needed Bob Rae's.

http://www.thestar.com/news/canada/politics/article/1132127--cohn-drummond-report-merely-the-end-of-the-beginning



Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: RogueBeaver on February 16, 2012, 11:30:13 AM
Ex-ce-llent.

http://www.theglobeandmail.com/news/politics/tories-unveil-bill-to-thwart-bogus-refugees/article2340521/


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: RogueBeaver on February 16, 2012, 03:08:58 PM
Immigration bill, gun registry, C-30.


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: RogueBeaver on February 16, 2012, 05:24:56 PM
Ugh. Lisee is a vile RL troll. I mean really, he basically argued that withdrawing Bill 150 made Bou-Bou a race traitor.

http://www.ledevoir.com/politique/quebec/342813/combat-extreme-lisee-germain

EDIT: I threw up a little after reading some of the comments.


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: Hash on February 17, 2012, 08:12:56 AM
I hadn't followed this, but reading up on C-30, this government sure does hate freedom a whole lot. What a bunch of moralfags.


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: Hatman 🍁 on February 17, 2012, 08:06:32 PM
Speaking of Bill 30, LOL:

http://www.theglobeandmail.com/news/politics/ottawa-notebook/anonymous-twitter-user-turns-tables-on-tory-champion-of-e-snooping-bill/article2339463/


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: RogueBeaver on February 17, 2012, 08:12:21 PM
That's not funny, it's vile shiit which has no place in our public discourse.


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: MaxQue on February 17, 2012, 08:24:38 PM
That's not funny, it's vile shiit which has no place in our public discourse.

Sorry, but I'm not able to have pity for a man which is transforming Canada in a police state and who says than opponents of his project are allies of paedophiles.

He searched it.


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: Hatman 🍁 on February 17, 2012, 08:28:49 PM
That's not funny, it's vile shiit which has no place in our public discourse.

No, it's pretty funny.

When you say "everyone against my bill supports child pornography", you get what's coming to you. You want to fight dirty, prepare to fight dirty. Besides, it's his own fault he chose to have an affair with his kid's babysitter.

Reminds a lot of Republicans who do stuff like this. Like, Newt Gingrich.


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: RogueBeaver on February 17, 2012, 10:03:31 PM
Coyne's doing what his fellow At Issue panelists did last night: overanalyzing this. If they're spilling so much ink over a fairly minor incident, imagine how much ink they'll spill if/when the Musketeer runs for leader. Only Harper himself will get more...

http://fullcomment.nationalpost.com/2012/02/17/andrew-coyne-the-problem-with-justin-trudeaus-petty-separatism-threat-is-that-its-so-commonplace/

Yaffe's opinion is mine.

http://blogs.vancouversun.com/2012/02/17/justin-trudeau-not-ready-for-prime-time/


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: RogueBeaver on February 17, 2012, 10:12:34 PM
Maher agrees with you guys on Toews. My real objection is that we don't have that tradition up here... were this the US I'd be fine with it. To each country its own politico-journalistic tradition.

http://www.ottawacitizen.com/technology/Maher%2BToews%2Bmade%2Bhimself%2BTwitter%2Btarget%2Bwith%2Bpornographers%2Bcrack/6171839/story.html

I never liked what I heard of this course, but the ruling makes sense.

http://www.cbc.ca/news/canada/story/2012/02/16/supreme-court-canada-religion-education-challenge.html

Take it as a badge of honour.

http://www.newwestnewsleader.com/news/139478293.html


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: Hatman 🍁 on February 17, 2012, 10:18:04 PM
Hypocrisy should be revealed. Practice what you preach, and all that. It's terrible to have to bring up people's personal lives, but I dont want a person who has led such an immoral life such as Toews lecturing others about their immoralities.


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: Hatman 🍁 on February 17, 2012, 10:23:19 PM
It's also ridiculous about tracing the IP address. I think all of the Parliament is on the same IP address, or at least multiple computers. Heck, I may have edited Wikipedia in the past using a Parliament IP address. Doesn't mean I am Vikileaks.


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: RogueBeaver on February 17, 2012, 10:36:59 PM
Different perspective.

http://fullcomment.nationalpost.com/2012/02/17/national-post-editorial-board-what-vikileaks-hath-wrought/


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: Hatman 🍁 on February 17, 2012, 11:22:47 PM
I'm surprised the National Post still exists...


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: Хahar 🤔 on February 18, 2012, 03:03:03 AM
I'm reminded of Maxime Bernier.


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: Hash on February 18, 2012, 10:32:06 AM
That's not funny, it's vile shiit which has no place in our public discourse.

No, it's pretty funny.

When you say "everyone against my bill supports child pornography", you get what's coming to you. You want to fight dirty, prepare to fight dirty. Besides, it's his own fault he chose to have an affair with his kid's babysitter.

Reminds a lot of Republicans who do stuff like this. Like, Newt Gingrich.

I fully agree with this. If Viki the Moron wants to spy on our private lives, then it's fair game for us to know about his private life.


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: 2952-0-0 on February 18, 2012, 01:53:40 PM
And besides, it's not like the Conservatives have not used anonymous ways to personally attack an opponent (e.g. the last minute "scandal" involving Layton).

I bet that whoever did Vikileaks either is or will be on the party strategic team. Seriously, that idea was brilliant.


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: RogueBeaver on February 19, 2012, 06:20:11 PM
Sock it to 'em.

http://www.canada.com/news/Tandt+Politicians+will+duke+ring+cancer+foundation/6177798/story.html


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: RogueBeaver on February 19, 2012, 08:25:13 PM
Even more on Vikigate.

http://www.thestar.com/news/canada/article/1133845--tim-harper-a-mean-town-just-got-a-whole-lot-meaner

http://blogs.canada.com/2012/02/18/why-nobody-wrote-about-vic-toews-divorce/


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: Hatman 🍁 on February 19, 2012, 08:46:58 PM
Politician's personal lives seemed to be fair game when the Sun attacked Layton just before the election with the whole tanning bed incident. Good thing it back fired.


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: Hatman 🍁 on February 19, 2012, 08:51:44 PM

http://blogs.canada.com/2012/02/18/why-nobody-wrote-about-vic-toews-divorce/

I know who the "closeted homosexual with the door wide open" is (John Baird), but who is the former married cabinet minister with the young male lover?


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: Хahar 🤔 on February 19, 2012, 09:06:48 PM
Must we call it Vikigate? If we're going to use the name of an American scandal, why not call it Viki Dome? That would be a much better name.


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: RogueBeaver on February 19, 2012, 09:15:41 PM
It said a previous Cabinet. John English reported that Trudeau had some gays in his cabinet, but Maher is probably referring to someone from the Chretien/Martin era. If anyone has an idea...

Fine, VikiDome it is.

Any bets on Le Match?


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: RogueBeaver on February 20, 2012, 01:55:38 PM
We should scrap them and buy SSNs from France or the US.

http://thechronicleherald.ca/opinion/64952-doubts-about-subs-continue-surface


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: RogueBeaver on February 20, 2012, 02:54:04 PM
Is the House in session today? CPAC didn't cover QP for one, if one in fact happened...


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: RogueBeaver on February 20, 2012, 08:34:10 PM
Finally.

http://www.theglobeandmail.com/news/politics/finley-to-make-the-case-for-adjusting-old-age-security/article2344215/

Both were/are garbage.

http://fullcomment.nationalpost.com/2012/02/20/bill-c-30-andrew-coyne/



Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: RogueBeaver on February 20, 2012, 09:47:59 PM
Should be interesting. A Redford-style spending orgy will only spike Tory numbers, so Grits beware.

http://www.theglobeandmail.com/news/national/british-columbia/bc-politics/bc-liberals-wary-of-ndp-rivals-gamble-on-the-budget/article2344220/


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: Hatman 🍁 on February 20, 2012, 11:05:02 PM
Is the House in session today? CPAC didn't cover QP for one, if one in fact happened...

I don't think Parliament was open. I was going to go in and work on my contract, but then I got a message that they weren't there. I thought it was a provincial holiday, but I guess any excuse to not work, eh?


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: MaxQue on February 21, 2012, 01:28:14 AM
House doesn't sit this week.

This is a "constituency week", I suppose.


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: RogueBeaver on February 21, 2012, 09:53:43 AM
Ah. Now it looks like the budget's delayed until late March, maybe even early April.  So only the NDP convention to watch...


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: RogueBeaver on February 21, 2012, 03:59:32 PM
He won't rule out "revenue increases" or any number of Dadisms though.

http://www.thestar.com/news/canada/politics/article/1134385--dalton-mcguinty-rules-out-tax-hikes-to-pay-off-ontario-deficit


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: RogueBeaver on February 22, 2012, 02:06:20 PM
The PM made a mistake here. He should've kept Bellemare in reserve as a star candidate rather than put him in the Senate.

http://www.cyberpresse.ca/actualites/quebec-canada/politique-canadienne/201202/22/01-4498650-quebec-en-rupture-avec-la-population-sur-c-10-dit-marc-bellemare.php


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: RogueBeaver on February 22, 2012, 03:35:10 PM
Promotion yes, but he's doing nothing to help Pelciquistes organize.

http://www.winnipegfreepress.com/canada/bob-rae-promotes-liberals-in-quebec-as-ndp-membership-rises-in-province-140028203.html


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: MaxQue on February 22, 2012, 05:46:49 PM
If Harper made mistakes, good.

The idea of fixed sentences is an abheration.
And whole use of the "victims rights" to promote insane ideas on the justice system is sickening and is an insult to the noble cause of victims rights.


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: RogueBeaver on February 22, 2012, 06:35:43 PM
His mistake was not keeping Bellemare in reserve as a star candidate. Lord knows our Quebec team is weak.



Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: MaxQue on February 22, 2012, 07:04:48 PM
His mistake was not keeping Bellemare in reserve as a star candidate. Lord knows our Quebec team is weak.



Oh, look, if he wants to do lose en election again, no problem.
I remember you than he was heavily defeated both times when he ran for Quebec mayorship.


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: RogueBeaver on February 22, 2012, 07:16:25 PM
Eh, hopefully Bernier's probation will be over by next election. Paradis is OK but no one outside his native region knows who he is.

More on Rae's Quebec tour.

http://www.theglobeandmail.com/news/politics/rae-rallies-liberals-in-quebec-on-heels-of-ndp-membership-drive/article2346744/

Whistling through the graveyard indeed. This is the first Hebert column this year I agree with wholeheartedly.

http://www.thestar.com/news/canada/politics/article/1135309--hebert-brian-topps-analysis-of-liberals-may-not-mirror-reality


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: RogueBeaver on February 24, 2012, 02:56:11 PM
Whoever did it should be fired and if necessary, prosecuted.

http://www.thestar.com/news/canada/politics/article/1135702--opposition-parties-slam-election-dirty-tricks-campaign-linked-to-tories

I want whatever she's smoking. If Charest really wants to run on a "more federalist than Trudeau" (he of recent "bogeyman" fame) platform... yeah. On the flip side, he can't really go much lower than 18% among Francophones. A Machiavellian strategy to boost the CAQ's vote at the PQ's expense has at least as much a chance of backfiring as succeeding. So far Marois has been able to keep away from that issue, and if Charest wants to play it safe he should also. I honestly don't know what's going on with Hebert these days- she used to be so sensible but nowadays comes out with 90% chaff, 10% wheat.

http://www.thestar.com/news/canada/politics/article/1136389--hebert-resurgent-parti-quebecois-may-help-jean-charest-s-liberals

Paul Wells' print column mentions how Topp would be the best Dipper choice because he "knows the country better", was Layton's best strategist and strategized against Harper on innumerable occasions. No mention of never serving in elective office or being disliked by the NDP base. The second half mentioned how the Tories are the Resource Economy Party, Dippers Manufacturing Economy Party and Grits "Creative Economy" (WTF is that?) Party- and that the former is where votes are. Grits can retool to be the "Service Sector Party", esp. since their economic guru is a Bay Street alum.

There's also a Trudeau interview in there- nothing particularly new.




Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: RogueBeaver on February 26, 2012, 08:15:53 PM
QP today: No one thought Robogate will have any long-term political impact.


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: LastVoter on February 27, 2012, 04:24:33 AM
Which party controls the ridings which were affected by robocalling? Could Conservatives lose their majority?


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: Holmes on February 27, 2012, 10:53:33 AM
I'd be surprised if any Torie were to be removed. Most likely, they'll just receive a slap on the wrist and a small fine. This isn't their first voter fraud allegation.


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: RogueBeaver on February 27, 2012, 03:05:33 PM
Robocall, F-35, bunch of minor issues. Much less fiery than I expected.


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: RogueBeaver on February 27, 2012, 03:11:16 PM
Oh, and Rae told the House that a Liberal staffer was behind Vikileaks, then apologized to Toews.


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: 2952-0-0 on February 27, 2012, 04:18:51 PM
Oh, and Rae told the House that a Liberal staffer was behind Vikileaks, then apologized to Toews.

I bet that staffer will be on the Liberal Party Strategy Team in, say, three months.


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: RogueBeaver on February 27, 2012, 08:33:08 PM
Previous investigation focused on Guelph.

http://www.ottawacitizen.com/Robocall%2Bprobe%2Bputs%2BTory%2Bcampaign%2BGuelph%2Bunder%2Bmicroscope/6218191/story.html


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: RogueBeaver on February 28, 2012, 09:59:30 AM
Vikigate is over for everyone except Toews himself.

http://news.nationalpost.com/2012/02/27/vic-toews-vikileaks/


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: RogueBeaver on February 28, 2012, 12:02:16 PM
More dumbassery from Dad.

http://www.theglobeandmail.com/news/politics/mcguinty-rebuffs-redfords-oil-sands-plea/article2351145/


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: RogueBeaver on February 29, 2012, 06:05:57 PM
Federal budget comes down a month from today.

http://www.theglobeandmail.com/news/politics/flaherty-to-unveil-belt-tightening-plans-in-march-29-budget/article2354311/


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: Holmes on March 01, 2012, 10:14:38 AM
I'm glad it won't be before or during the leadership convention.


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: RogueBeaver on March 01, 2012, 08:11:50 PM
Not a moment too soon.

http://www.theglobeandmail.com/news/politics/budget-cuts-to-affect-mps-pensions-pm-says/article2356033/

Again? *groans*

http://m.ledevoir.com/politique/canada/344016/un-autre-in-and-out-au-quebec


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: MaxQue on March 01, 2012, 08:19:44 PM
Not a great week for Tories.


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: RogueBeaver on March 01, 2012, 08:22:37 PM
This is the worst week we've had since the coalition crisis 4 years ago. Hopefully the budget clears the air a bit.



Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: MaxQue on March 01, 2012, 08:40:39 PM
This is the worst week we've had since the coalition crisis 4 years ago. Hopefully the budget clears the air a bit.



Tories are having awful damege control.
Today, they said than the fraudulous calls were from Liberals, not them.

A bit hard to believe.


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: Hatman 🍁 on March 02, 2012, 01:34:22 PM
Tories way down: http://www.ipolitics.ca/2012/03/02/frank-graves-poll-so-where-are-we-in-the-midst-of-scandal-a-measure-of-sway/


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: RogueBeaver on March 02, 2012, 02:06:17 PM
Tories way down: http://www.ipolitics.ca/2012/03/02/frank-graves-poll-so-where-are-we-in-the-midst-of-scandal-a-measure-of-sway/

The next election is only 42 months away.


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: 2952-0-0 on March 02, 2012, 02:46:37 PM
Tories way down: http://www.ipolitics.ca/2012/03/02/frank-graves-poll-so-where-are-we-in-the-midst-of-scandal-a-measure-of-sway/

The next election is only 42 months away.

Yes, but it's not implausible that two or three thumping by-election losses will rattle the CPC caucus' confidence in Harper's leadership style, which could lead to the first serious leadership crisis he has faced.


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: Hatman 🍁 on March 02, 2012, 04:58:21 PM
Tories way down: http://www.ipolitics.ca/2012/03/02/frank-graves-poll-so-where-are-we-in-the-midst-of-scandal-a-measure-of-sway/

The next election is only 42 months away.

Yes, but it's not implausible that two or three thumping by-election losses will rattle the CPC caucus' confidence in Harper's leadership style, which could lead to the first serious leadership crisis he has faced.

Harper message to MPs: Please don't die on me!


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: RogueBeaver on March 02, 2012, 05:05:50 PM
Last I checked the Grit caucus wins the geriatry prize. ;)


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: RogueBeaver on March 03, 2012, 10:56:21 PM
Paradis is suing Caron for defamation.

http://www.cyberpresse.ca/actualites/quebec-canada/politique-canadienne/201203/03/01-4502214-christian-paradis-poursuit-guy-caron-pour-diffamation.php


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: MaxQue on March 03, 2012, 11:03:59 PM
Typical of the Unique Conservative Party. You dare to say the truth about their neopotism, you are sued.


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: RogueBeaver on March 03, 2012, 11:10:41 PM
Our Quebec bench was wiped out when Cannon and Verner lost. Unless Bernier manages to rehab himself ASAP in the next 4 years... not looking good. Pelciquistes have the best bench. The Hill Times had a lot of nice things to say about Paradis in their latest issue. Then again, they also really like Vic Toews.

All that said, I do agree that it's nepotism.



Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: MaxQue on March 03, 2012, 11:29:02 PM
I just want to add than I'm sorry for using unfair words. I do think than the Conservative Party is committed to democracy.

I'm just very frustated by their antics of the recent weeks (C-30, the calls, that). It's just way too much and make me quite annoyed.

But I don't think I should contest their commitment to democracy.

EDIT: Honestly, it thinks it is because our political climate degraded so much in the last weeks. I suppose you will all agree with me on that.


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: Hash on March 04, 2012, 12:16:42 AM
Let's just say that the Purgatories in a majority government have performed beyond and above my wildest nightmares of what such a majority government for them would be like.


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: Hatman 🍁 on March 04, 2012, 04:33:49 PM
Well, the Tories are more committed to Senate reform than the Liberals


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: RogueBeaver on March 05, 2012, 11:13:41 AM
New Nanos poll: Tories 36, Grits 30, Dippers 25. That Place pegs a Liberal OO and Tory minority.


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: RogueBeaver on March 05, 2012, 02:46:13 PM
Dippers go for some nationalist showboating.

http://www.cyberpresse.ca/actualites/quebec-canada/national/201203/05/01-4502646-francais-au-travail-le-npd-blame-les-autres-partis.php


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: RogueBeaver on March 05, 2012, 03:20:25 PM
Robocalls, OAS, F-35. Now if someone can explain why the Grits voted against the Jordanian FTA... thx.


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: Hatman 🍁 on March 05, 2012, 03:36:39 PM
Nanos is a Tory pollster, and has been an outlier for a while. Always shows bad numbers for the NDP.


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: RogueBeaver on March 05, 2012, 03:48:25 PM
QP should have a different tone with Mulcair in LOTO's seat. Personally I'm waiting for the Grits to retake second place in the polls.


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: RogueBeaver on March 05, 2012, 05:21:55 PM
BC teachers go on strike.

http://news.nationalpost.com/2012/03/05/b-c-schools-shut-down-across-the-province-as-teachers-begin-strike/


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: RogueBeaver on March 07, 2012, 05:34:17 PM
QP has been the same this week, so I'll only update if something different happens.

1) Harper v. Turmel, we all know who wins that one.

2) Pat Martin gets up and acts entirely in character.

3) Del Maestro gets up and acts entirely in character.

4) Boulerice or Angus fire off a robocall question.

5) Poilievre or Del Maestro give either nonsequiturs or sarcastic barbs in response.

6) Rae scores a hit on Harper. Sometimes Harper scores back, but that hasn't happened since pre-Vikileaks.

7) Peter Julian asks an economic question. Always a draw with whichever Tory answers.

8] Either veterans' or fisheries issues are raised by their respective critics.

9) White noise from Dipper poteaux.

10) Miscellaneous questions from various opposition MPs.



Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: RogueBeaver on March 08, 2012, 10:39:59 AM
Air Canada strike? What Air Canada strike?

http://www.ottawacitizen.com/business/Government%2Bappears%2Bpoised%2Bprevent%2BCanada%2Bstrike/6267915/story.html


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: RogueBeaver on March 08, 2012, 12:06:59 PM
Le Match will be nationally televised.

http://www.sunnewsnetwork.ca/sunnews/politics/archives/2012/03/20120307-174840.html


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: MaxQue on March 08, 2012, 12:46:22 PM
Joe Volpe is accusing Conservatives of registering at least 2700 false electors in Eglinton-Lawrence last election.


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: RogueBeaver on March 08, 2012, 12:53:24 PM
Let the judge handle that. We don't know a) if it's true b) if they voted, and c) it wouldn't change the outcome.

Excellent news.

http://www.ledevoir.com/politique/canada/344550/engorgement-du-systeme-d-immigration-la-solution-d-ottawa-ne-fait-pas-l-unanimite

http://www.cyberpresse.ca/actualites/quebec-canada/politique-canadienne/201203/08/01-4503632-plus-de-pouvoirs-denquete-reclames-pour-elections-canada.php


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: RogueBeaver on March 08, 2012, 12:59:50 PM
Which brings me to a larger point raised by, IIRC, Chantal Hebert: all these allegations make it hard to separate wheat from chaff. Right now the only wheat is in Guelph.


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: MaxQue on March 08, 2012, 01:39:17 PM
Not than I care about Joe Volpe. I think I prefer a Conservative over a fake Liberal like Volpe.

I have a strong dislike of this man.


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: RogueBeaver on March 08, 2012, 01:53:45 PM
Volpe is just "meh" to me. If any GTA Liberal were to come back, I'd take Kennedy and/or Hall Findlay. No one else.

Air Canada: Meh. I don't think airlines are an absolutely essential service, but I wouldn't be upset if Raitt kept the planes flying.

Immigration: Keep it coming.

Le Match: I'm rooting for Trudeau, but I don't think this is nearly the BFD media's making it out to be. 'Tis for charity, people.


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: RogueBeaver on March 08, 2012, 02:37:36 PM
Air Canada lockout starts Monday.

http://www.theglobeandmail.com/globe-investor/air-canada-to-lock-out-pilots/article2362836/


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: RogueBeaver on March 08, 2012, 05:28:57 PM
Scratch that, Raitt's referring it to the IRB.

http://www.ottawacitizen.com/business/Government%2Bappears%2Bpoised%2Bprevent%2BCanada%2Bstrike/6267915/story.html


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: RogueBeaver on March 08, 2012, 10:35:35 PM
Excellent.

http://fullcomment.nationalpost.com/2012/03/08/pierre-poutine-robocalls/

http://www.canada.com/life/Sweeping%2BTory%2Bbudget%2Bplans%2Bbreathtaking%2Bscope%2BTandt/6273161/story.html

 


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: RogueBeaver on March 09, 2012, 03:13:18 PM
Alas, this will have to be the norm because we'll never get an RTW law.

http://www.cbc.ca/news/business/story/2012/03/09/air-canada-harper.html


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: RogueBeaver on March 10, 2012, 03:36:31 PM
Dual messaging? Cause that's not what Flaherty's saying.

http://www.cbc.ca/news/politics/story/2012/03/10/pol-tony-clement-march-budget-culture-shift.html

Agreed, and very regrettable.

http://www.ottawacitizen.com/business/Where%2BConservatives/6280804/story.html

My already-favourable opinion of Diane Finley increases weekly.

http://www.vancouversun.com/business/Feds%2Bwant%2Bprivate%2Bsector%2Bplug%2Bholes%2Bsocial%2Bsafety/6282478/story.html


In case no one saw last week, Trudeau gave his tacit approval to Charest's tuition hike.


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: MaxQue on March 10, 2012, 03:59:19 PM
Surprise!

The Conservative Party isn't conservative, it is neoliberal.

And while I have respect for conservatism, I have no for neoliberalism.


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: RogueBeaver on March 10, 2012, 04:21:45 PM
Surprise!

The Conservative Party isn't conservative, it is neoliberal.

And while I have respect for conservatism, I have no for neoliberalism.

Coyne's article bemoaned Harper/Flaherty's deficit spending, it wasn't a Red Tory lament. Brison does the same thing whenever he gets an opportunity in the House.


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: MaxQue on March 10, 2012, 04:41:19 PM
I know.

But at least, that ideology is coherent. Downsize the state, make people "more responsible". It is coherent, at least and I can see their point.

Neoliberalism is taxing more the poor and taxing less or even subsising the rich. It isn't even an ideology, it is rich people using their political infuence to get richer.


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: Hash on March 11, 2012, 08:26:28 AM
More like a weird hybrid of reactionary neoliberalism, but whatev.


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: Хahar 🤔 on March 12, 2012, 01:34:15 AM
The Liberal Party is of course Canada's conservative party.


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: Hatman 🍁 on March 12, 2012, 01:44:12 AM
In non political news, Ontario wins the Brier! :)


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: RogueBeaver on March 12, 2012, 01:16:32 PM
Mmm hmm. I'm hoping for a pincer movement next election by Grits and Tories on this subject.

http://fullcomment.nationalpost.com/2012/03/12/stephane-dion-ndps-separatist-pandering-threatens-national-unity/?utm_source=dlvr.it&utm_medium=twitter

Good.

http://www.theglobeandmail.com/report-on-business/international-news/canada-to-seek-more-trade-ties-with-russia/article2365945/

Either the MSM converts en masse to the American rules or doesn't at all. Ridiculous to have one set of journalistic standards for Toews and another for everyone else when it comes to personal lives.

http://www.thestar.com/news/canada/politics/article/1144549--vikileaks-case-raises-debate-about-whether-divorce-files-should-be-open-to-public


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: RogueBeaver on March 13, 2012, 06:48:39 PM
Oh Lord, what p'tit crisse had this brilliant idea?

http://www.ottawacitizen.com/news/House%2BCommons%2Bhold%2Babortion%2Brelated%2Bdebate%2BApril/6296017/story.html


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: MaxQue on March 13, 2012, 07:20:23 PM
Oh Lord, what p'tit crisse had this brilliant idea?

http://www.ottawacitizen.com/news/House%2BCommons%2Bhold%2Babortion%2Brelated%2Bdebate%2BApril/6296017/story.html

It is written in the article, it's Stephen Woodworth, MP for Kitchener Centre.

I suppose it is irony, or you really favor reopening that debate?


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: RogueBeaver on March 13, 2012, 07:46:46 PM
Oh Lord, what p'tit crisse had this brilliant idea?

http://www.ottawacitizen.com/news/House%2BCommons%2Bhold%2Babortion%2Brelated%2Bdebate%2BApril/6296017/story.html

It is written in the article, it's Stephen Woodworth, MP for Kitchener Centre.

I suppose it is irony, or you really favor reopening that debate?

Irony.


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: RogueBeaver on March 14, 2012, 04:24:08 PM
Step in the right direction.

http://www.cbc.ca/news/politics/story/2012/03/14/paradis-industry.html

I'll be generous and say this is a "Plan B if we don't regain OO" thing, since he's been quite certain that the Grits will recover. Plus saying he'd entertain discussion of the idea under similar circumstances back in August. Sort of like how the separatist thing is only repeating something he said 2 years ago. It's a pattern, but what's behind it... don't ask me.

http://www.edmontonsun.com/2012/03/14/trudeau-endorses-future-coalition-with-ndp


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: RogueBeaver on March 15, 2012, 07:08:13 PM
OK, who's actually leading in Ontario with the new Nanos poll showing a 10-point Grit lead and Forum showing a 10-point Tory lead? One thing I hate about our pollsters is the wide range of results they produce.

Oops.

http://fullcomment.nationalpost.com/2012/03/15/john-ivison-ag-to-deliver-scathing-report-on-f35s/



Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: RedPrometheus on March 19, 2012, 04:29:49 AM
OK, who's actually leading in Ontario with the new Nanos poll showing a 10-point Grit lead and Forum showing a 10-point Tory lead? One thing I hate about our pollsters is the wide range of results they produce.

Oops.

http://fullcomment.nationalpost.com/2012/03/15/john-ivison-ag-to-deliver-scathing-report-on-f35s/



It is quite strange that polls in Canada tend to be quite inconsistent.

But I hope the Tories will decied to scrap the F-35 deal. The defence budget can be spent much better.


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: Hatman 🍁 on March 20, 2012, 12:22:17 AM
lololol

http://www.cbc.ca/news/politics/inside-politics-blog/2012/03/bus-ted-danielle-smith-campaign-gone-wildrose.html


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: MaxQue on March 20, 2012, 12:26:57 AM
Rather unfortunate design.


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: Хahar 🤔 on March 20, 2012, 12:27:13 AM
I think my favorite part of the article is the way it doesn't actually address the issue. It took me a while to figure out what was going on.


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: Smid on March 20, 2012, 12:30:53 AM
She has such a cool campaign bust! I mean, bus...


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: Hatman 🍁 on March 20, 2012, 09:03:38 AM
Attack ad against Bob Rae: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=8XgsjkPb_AM

Do the Tories realize that an election is 3 years away? I guess everyone thinks we're still in perpetual election mode just like before 2011.

By the way, the NDP is preparing ads after the convention trying to promote whoever the new leader will be. Smart move, for sure. I don't think I've ever seen NDP ads outside election time, so it will be interesting to see.


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: 2952-0-0 on March 20, 2012, 11:15:30 AM
Attack ad against Bob Rae: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=8XgsjkPb_AM

Do the Tories realize that an election is 3 years away? I guess everyone thinks we're still in perpetual election mode just like before 2011.

By the way, the NDP is preparing ads after the convention trying to promote whoever the new leader will be. Smart move, for sure. I don't think I've ever seen NDP ads outside election time, so it will be interesting to see.

Good thing that unlike the previous two Liberal "leaders", Bob Rae already has a plan to respond.


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: RogueBeaver on March 20, 2012, 02:53:32 PM
Attack ad against Bob Rae: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=8XgsjkPb_AM

Do the Tories realize that an election is 3 years away? I guess everyone thinks we're still in perpetual election mode just like before 2011.

By the way, the NDP is preparing ads after the convention trying to promote whoever the new leader will be. Smart move, for sure. I don't think I've ever seen NDP ads outside election time, so it will be interesting to see.

Good thing that unlike the previous two Liberal "leaders", Bob Rae already has a plan to respond.

Yep. Don't bitch about the Permanent Campaign- start your own, like Rae and Mulcair want to do.


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: RogueBeaver on March 20, 2012, 08:56:13 PM
Oh, and if Rae really wants to use said proposed fund for a defense of Rae Days... strategic stupidity is the kindest thing I can say. Repudiate it and run on Brisonomics. 'Tis not complicated, Grits.


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: Holmes on March 21, 2012, 07:20:33 AM
Attacking Rae and the Liberals isn't a bad idea though, just because they're a third party. There's a lot of Torie vs. Grit ridings in southern Ontario that can tip the balance between majority and minority, and I know the Conservatives want to keep them.


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: RogueBeaver on March 22, 2012, 04:16:50 PM
OUT!!!

http://www.theglobeandmail.com/news/politics/paradis-stays-put-in-cabinet-despite-ethics-rebuke-in-jaffer-case/article2378214/


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: RogueBeaver on March 25, 2012, 09:09:20 PM
Two things this week: the budget on Thursday, Le Match on Saturday. Something tells me I'll like the results of one better than the other.


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: Holmes on March 26, 2012, 09:13:56 AM
Just some random musings. For all the bad Turmel-mania did for the NDP, along with the boring leadership race, she did keep the party in the second place against the so-called powerful Bob Rae. Interesting how the Tories didn't really attack her or the leadership candidates, but not so surprising how they did right after Mulcair won the race. If the most recent Environics poll is to be trusted, and the Tories and Dippers are tied 30-30, it means that people are jumping ship from the Tories, but aren't sure who is the better alternative. It's Mulcair's job now to prove to these voters that it's his party that is the best alternative - specifically in Ontario, Saskatchewan, BC and the Atlantic - according to the poll, they lead in the two latter.

As a New Democrat, I worry about Rae, though. Not because I think he's this powerful, brilliant leader, but because I think he'll turn off voters in Ontario from voting NDP, and Liberal, giving Harper enough support in the province to keep some important ridings in the GTA to cling to power.


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: RogueBeaver on March 26, 2012, 12:21:15 PM
Ontarians will not vote for NEP II, i.e. C&T. Ditto the West. We and the Grits will hang it around Mulcair's neck like we did Dion and Iggy.



Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: Holmes on March 26, 2012, 12:54:52 PM
Perhaps the Tories can call Mulcair a child pornographer sympathizer like they did for average Canadians, while Grits post anonymous tweets about his personal life.


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: MaxQue on March 26, 2012, 02:12:24 PM
The Appeal Court of Ontario stuck down the laws banning brothels and the law banning proxenetism.
It kept the law banning solicitation on streets.

I suppose federal government will appeal to the Supreme Court.


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: RogueBeaver on March 26, 2012, 02:40:41 PM
The Appeal Court of Ontario stuck down the laws banning brothels and the law banning proxenetism.
It kept the law banning solicitation on streets.

I suppose federal government will appeal to the Supreme Court.

Yep.

QP today: All about Avion and Air Canada. Personally I would just amend the privatization legislation for all those ex-crown corporations and eliminate the economically nationalist provisions from them.


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: Holmes on March 26, 2012, 03:16:44 PM
The Appeal Court of Ontario stuck down the laws banning brothels and the law banning proxenetism.
It kept the law banning solicitation on streets.

I suppose federal government will appeal to the Supreme Court.

Yep.

How is prostitution a federally regulated issue? If Dad wanted to continue being horrible and appeal it, all the power to him, but Harper? Geez.


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: MaxQue on March 26, 2012, 03:20:42 PM
Well, news seems to tell than the Supreme Court can't impose injunctions and than prostitution is de facto legal in Ontario right now.

Holmes, prostitution is ruled by Criminal Code (not by common law/civil law), so, it is a federal issue.


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: RogueBeaver on March 26, 2012, 03:52:53 PM
Personally I don't have a strong opinion one way or the other on this issue- either outcome is fine with me.



Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: RogueBeaver on March 27, 2012, 07:04:48 PM
QP: More on Paradis and F-35s. Though for some reason the hunting lodge references gave me flashbacks to the final scene in Denys Arcand's Duplessis . The guy should resign but won't and Harper won't fire him. For some reason he seems to place a lot of faith in Paradis- don't ask me why. As Bellevance said on PP today, better to replace him with Lebel in both roles. Dare I say Bernier.

http://www.theglobeandmail.com/news/politics/olympic-official-pitched-paradis-on-quebec-arena-during-hunting-trip/article2382888/


More stuff on Le Match. Alas, I don't get Sun and will have to find another feed somehow...


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: Hatman 🍁 on March 27, 2012, 10:45:09 PM
WOOO! GONNA GET SOME HOOKERS!
jk


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: RogueBeaver on March 28, 2012, 01:15:17 PM
Ontario budget comes down soon, but most likely Horwath folds and gives Dad the extra vote.


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: MaxQue on March 28, 2012, 02:29:46 PM
I doubt than she would give them a vote.
She either deal a strike with McGuinty to have some changes in the budget or some of her MLAs will be sick the day of the voting.


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: RogueBeaver on March 28, 2012, 02:56:04 PM
I doubt than she would give them a vote.
She either deal a strike with McGuinty to have some changes in the budget or some of her MLAs will be sick the day of the voting.

Yep. If there's to be another Ontario election, next year would be more likely.

Getting closer to Pierre Poutine.

http://www.theglobeandmail.com/news/politics/ottawa-notebook/robo-calls-sleuth-closes-in-on-election-fraudster-pierre-poutine/article2383841/

I disagree somewhat with Den Tandt. Mulcair has to be himself- bland for him will be as authentic as Harper's sweater vests were in '08. Rae's all but declared candidacy has no effect on the Grit polling numbers or his House performance. Harper's polling numbers aren't too different than they normally are between elections, so no lasting harm done.

http://www.ottawacitizen.com/news/Each%2Bleader%2Bbleeding%2Bfrom%2Bself%2Binflicted%2Bwounds/6369610/story.html


Grits are going to launch a Permanent Campaign of their own. About time too.

http://blogs.canada.com/2012/03/28/bob-rae-says-liberals-wont-abandon-airways-to-right-wing-jerks-after-conservative-attack-ad/

As for the budget, NDP is going to pull every procedural trick to delay the inevitable. Grits seem to be critiquing us from the right financially and the left on entitlements.


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: RogueBeaver on March 29, 2012, 11:38:39 AM
Retirement age will go back to where it was before Liberal meddling... 67. Cue Dipper hysterics and Grit hedging.



Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: Holmes on March 29, 2012, 12:03:49 PM
ROBBINS (who??) has released a poll.

NDP 34%
Tories 33%
Liberals 26.5%
Other 6.5%
Undecided 14%

Quote
Thomas Mulcair’s New Democrats score at 2011 election levels in Quebec currently (43%), with Liberals down to (17%) and Conservatives at (11%) in Quebec. Stephen Harpers Conservatives remain in the lead in Ontario but have lost support down to (35%), with the Liberals at (31%) and the New Democrats (28.5%). In British Columbia the New Democrats lead with (38%), the Conservatives are down to (32%) and the Liberals have come up to (26%).

http://www.robbinssceresearch.com/polls/poll_893.html

Forum released one as well.

NDP 35%
Tories 35%
Liberals 19%

Quote
NDP in first place: BC (43%), Manitoba and Sask (44%), Quebec (40%),Ages 18-34, 45-54, Women

Cons in first ATL (39%-NDP second @34) ON (42% NDP second @30) AB (52% NDP second @31) Ages 35-44, 55-64, 65+ Men

http://www.thestar.com/news/canada/politics/article/1153428--poll-new-democrats-riding-mulcair-wave

wtf@ first in Manitoba and Saskatchewan. *shrug* Small samples probably, and the election is about 3 years away anyway, so it doesn't really matter. Maybe Mulcair will get his trees in Saskatchewan, after all though.


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: RogueBeaver on March 29, 2012, 12:14:22 PM
Mulcair gets his post-convention bounce.

http://www.thestar.com/news/canada/politics/article/1153428--poll-new-democrats-riding-mulcair-wave



Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: MaxQue on March 29, 2012, 08:22:50 PM
Apparently, the 0.01$ coin will be abolished.


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: RogueBeaver on March 29, 2012, 09:47:34 PM

Yep. The budget is tamer than I hoped it would be, but overall I'd give it a B+.


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: True Federalist (진정한 연방 주의자) on March 29, 2012, 10:57:42 PM

Will it be abolished entirely or kept around like the Canadian 50¢ coin for inclusion in mint sets and the like?


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: Хahar 🤔 on March 29, 2012, 10:59:46 PM
The BC numbers are really encouraging, although that seems to arise from dissatisfaction with the BC Liberals as much as anything. The NDP will still be in power in Winnipeg come next election, so I wouldn't expect a good result there.


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: LastVoter on March 30, 2012, 04:25:29 AM
Unbroken link to the poll please?


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: dead0man on March 30, 2012, 05:44:16 AM
Getting rid of worthless coinage and legalizing prostitution in Ontario, good job Canada!


(and just in case that confuses some people, I'm NOT being sarcastic and very much approve of both actions and wish the US would follow suit as soon as possible)


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: Hash on March 30, 2012, 04:05:13 PM
Predictably horrible ideologically-driven budget, but meh. I think we all knew this would come when our retarded countrymen gave Steevie a majority.


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: Vosem on March 30, 2012, 04:08:07 PM
Steve Harper is really one of my favorite incumbent world leaders. C'mon.


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: RogueBeaver on March 31, 2012, 10:18:15 PM
Trudeau socked it to Brazeau in the just-concluded Thrilla on the Hilla. I thought he'd win, but didn't realize just how lopsided 'twud be. Plus they raised 30k for the cause. Kudos to Justin.


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: RogueBeaver on April 03, 2012, 12:32:42 PM
BC Liberals are apparently in a death spiral.

Quebec wants an injunction against the gun registry's destruction.

http://www.theglobeandmail.com/news/politics/quebec-seeks-injunction-against-destruction-of-gun-registry-data/article2390646/

She'll probably cave on the tax hike in exchange for McGuinty accepting the rest, unless she's dead-set on an election.

http://www.theglobeandmail.com/news/politics/ndp-conditions-on-ontario-budget-include-tax-hike-for-highest-earners/article2390643/

It depends what your general opinion of Justin was before the match.

http://www.theglobeandmail.com/news/politics/lawrence-martin/justin-trudeau-in-the-name-of-the-father/article2389682/


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: RogueBeaver on April 05, 2012, 07:42:02 PM
More F-35 stuff.


http://fullcomment.nationalpost.com/2012/04/05/michael-den-tandt-conservatives-credibility-in-tatters-if-the-auditor-general-is-right-about-f-35s/

http://www.thestar.com/news/canada/politics/article/1157256--tim-harper-stephen-harper-should-be-seeking-some-cabinet-resignations?bn=1

Good.

http://www.cbc.ca/news/politics/story/2012/04/05/restaurant-owner-vigilante-support.html

Dippers do the soft sell. Sweater vests Mk II methinks.

http://www.ctv.ca/CTVNews/TopStories/20120405/ndp-ad-features-thomas-mulcair-120405/


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: Hatman 🍁 on April 05, 2012, 07:51:11 PM
Here's the ad: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=pJZNhikfWXI


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: RogueBeaver on April 08, 2012, 02:52:47 PM
If anyone's interested, Mulcair will be on Tout le monde en parle tonight.


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: RogueBeaver on April 08, 2012, 08:56:53 PM
He forgot cap n'trade, but otherwise agreed.

http://www.vancouversun.com/Mulcair%2Bpaved%2Bpath%2BSussex/6428318/story.html


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: RogueBeaver on April 11, 2012, 06:08:49 PM
NDP soaring in Quebec.

http://www.hilltimes.com/news/politics/2012/04/11/ndp-lead-all-parties-in-quebec-with-mulcair-as-leader/30412

Unless he becomes PM, yes.

http://www.thestar.com/news/canada/politics/article/1159792--walkom-can-the-ndp-s-stubborn-thomas-mulcair-keep-his-french-passport


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: RogueBeaver on April 19, 2012, 12:58:26 PM
With the possible exception of the Bourassa blowhard, I can't think of any Pelciquistes who don't tow the Trudeauvian line on this subject.

http://fullcomment.nationalpost.com/2012/04/19/jeff-jedras-thomas-mulcair-federalist-champion-opens-opportunity-for-liberals/


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: Holmes on April 19, 2012, 01:05:34 PM
I'm pretty impressed with how Horwath is handling the budget. It's the Liberals' budget, but with the Tories firmly in the no category, Horwath is seen as the adult and is getting a lot of (more good than bad) press about her proposals. Doesn't hurt that the proposals are popular ones, too. New Forum poll shows Tories at 34, Dippers at 31 and Grits at 28. (http://www.thestar.com/news/canada/politics/article/1163869--ontario-budget-andrea-horwath-s-tax-the-rich-scheme-hugely-popular-poll-suggests) Hopefully when the electorate remembers Hudak is the leader of the PCs, they'll run away from them.


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: RogueBeaver on April 19, 2012, 01:12:02 PM
She's not stupid, and forcing an election would be stupid from the NDP's POV. She can't prop him up forever though, as the fates of Iggy and David Lewis would remind her.


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: MaxQue on April 19, 2012, 05:06:11 PM
Apparently, the big lines of the NDP new shadow cabinet is:

Deputy leaders: Libby Davies, David Chistopherson and Megan Leslie.
Parlimentary leader: Nathan Cullen.


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: RogueBeaver on April 19, 2012, 06:10:40 PM
3 deputy leaders? Yeesh. Cullen's a good choice for House Leader though. Dewar and Nash are also resuming their previous roles at Finance and Foreign Affairs while Turmel becomes Chief Whip.

On another note, remind me why Harper hasn't fired MacKay yet. My best guess is that he's stripping away many of his powers while letting him twist in the wind. "Resignation by humiliation"- in which case it depends what lasts longer: the PM's patience or MacKay's self-regard.

http://fullcomment.nationalpost.com/2012/04/19/john-ivison-peter-mackays-defence-reign-could-end-with-latest-dnd-embarrassment/


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: MaxQue on April 19, 2012, 06:44:55 PM
Because MacKay has no power, as all other ministers.
All power is obviously held by the PMO.


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: RogueBeaver on April 19, 2012, 06:50:07 PM
Because MacKay has no power, as all other ministers.
All power is obviously held by the PMO.

The ministers who Harper trusts have power. Even those who aren't on P&P like Ambrose, Finley and Raitt. Long past time that Harper end this spectacle and put someone else in there.


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: 2952-0-0 on April 19, 2012, 07:23:53 PM
Harper's governing style really reminds me of the Soviet or Chinese Politburo more than it does a Westminster Parliamentary system.


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: RogueBeaver on April 19, 2012, 07:30:59 PM
Chretien was the same way- plenty of scandalous ministers (Jane Stewart anyone?) who he didn't fire because it would be admitting weakness. Most strong PMs with autocratic tendencies are. Martin had sloppy Cabinet discipline and it showed. Mulroney had a more relaxed leadership style in his first term but later admitted in his memoirs that with hindsight, Chretien's approach was better.


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: Holmes on April 19, 2012, 07:47:11 PM
She's not stupid, and forcing an election would be stupid from the NDP's POV. She can't prop him up forever though, as the fates of Iggy and David Lewis would remind her.

She knows it. Not that an election would be bad for the NDP - it would be bad for everyone. It's just been six months. But if she can get some of her proposals in, get press, and watch the NDP rise in the polls, why not milk it?


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: Smid on April 19, 2012, 07:57:39 PM
She's not stupid, and forcing an election would be stupid from the NDP's POV. She can't prop him up forever though, as the fates of Iggy and David Lewis would remind her.

She knows it. Not that an election would be bad for the NDP - it would be bad for everyone. It's just been six months. But if she can get some of her proposals in, get press, and watch the NDP rise in the polls, why not milk it?

Prop the government up for eighteen months or two years so she can say "I've tried to work with them but the Premier is being stubborn and refusing to compromise for the benefit of the workers of Ontario who are doing it tough in this economic climate" as a justification when the time comes.


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: RogueBeaver on April 19, 2012, 09:19:39 PM
At Issue tonight: the prison announcements and Chretien's merger support. I agreed with Coyne on merger- it will not happen before the next election, if that. Disagree with Hebert that Rae has worn out his welcome, since there's no one else in caucus willing to jump in.


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: You kip if you want to... on April 20, 2012, 03:42:14 PM

Desperate.

People should be calling for electoral reform, not a merger, but whatever.


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: Marokai Backbeat on April 20, 2012, 07:07:30 PM
Electoral reform is, like, too complicated.


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: Хahar 🤔 on April 20, 2012, 07:50:14 PM
Of course all the Liberals are for merger; it's the easiest way to get back into power despite the opinion of the electorate.


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: RogueBeaver on April 20, 2012, 07:52:54 PM
I happen to think the Liberals and NDP aren't quite so ideologically compatible. Indeed, on economic, defence and national unity issues they're closer to we Tories. And as Coyne pointed out last night, they would have about as much influence in the new party as the old PCs do in ours. Namely none.



Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: You kip if you want to... on April 20, 2012, 07:57:28 PM
I happen to think the Liberals and NDP aren't quite so ideologically compatible. Indeed, on economic, defence and national unity issues they're closer to we Tories. And as Coyne pointed out last night, they would have about as much influence in the new party as the old PCs do in ours. Namely none.



I agree. From what I know about the Liberals and the NDP, it'd work as well as Labour merging with the Liberal Democrats...


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: RogueBeaver on April 20, 2012, 08:12:51 PM
Yep. If the Liberals hope for a comeback it won't be through cheap gimmicks like this.

http://www.cbc.ca/news/politics/story/2012/04/20/pol-mulcair-position-on-marijuana-decriminalization.html


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: Hatman 🍁 on April 20, 2012, 10:15:58 PM
It certainly made me second guess my support of Mulcair initially.


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: Holmes on April 21, 2012, 06:13:58 PM
The Young Liberals are such potheads.


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: RogueBeaver on April 21, 2012, 06:25:42 PM
IIRC they tried to push through C&T before Rae shot that down. So yeah, don't trust them to judge the politics of policy.

Another Coyne idea was for the Grits to hoist the national unity banner and run against the NDP's opposition to the Clarity Act. While I entirely agree with the principle, that's an electoral nonstarter in ROQ.


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: Phony Moderate on April 21, 2012, 06:29:25 PM
The Young Liberals are such potheads.

That reminds me of a political organization over here (the UK) that used to exist (and maybe still does?), with the same name. But they were basically quasi-Marxists. Peter Hain was a member.


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: Filuwaúrdjan on April 21, 2012, 06:43:30 PM
Peter Hain was actually their leader. Pretty sure Richard Burden (MP for Birmingham Longbridge Northfield) was a member was well.


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: Hatman 🍁 on April 21, 2012, 09:22:55 PM
IIRC they tried to push through C&T before Rae shot that down. So yeah, don't trust them to judge the politics of policy.

Another Coyne idea was for the Grits to hoist the national unity banner and run against the NDP's opposition to the Clarity Act. While I entirely agree with the principle, that's an electoral nonstarter in ROQ.

C&T?


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: Jackson on April 21, 2012, 09:33:41 PM
Cap and Trade.


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: RogueBeaver on April 23, 2012, 02:08:39 PM
Dipper quits caucus over gun registry.

http://www.theglobeandmail.com/news/politics/ottawa-notebook/gun-registry-opponent-bruce-hyer-quits-ndp-to-sit-as-independent/article2411269/




Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: Marokai Backbeat on April 23, 2012, 02:38:58 PM
Quote
Premier Dalton McGuinty has agreed to NDP Leader Andrea Horwath’s “tax-the-rich” scheme in exchange for support of the minority Liberal’s budget to avert a snap election call Tuesday.

McGuinty emerged Monday afternoon from a 30-minute closed-door meeting with Horwath — his second in as many days — to announce he had made the significant concessions.

“They wanted a tax on the rich, I wanted to pay down our deficit faster,” the premier told a packed news conference.

“We all gave a little bit.”
http://www.thestar.com/news/canada/politics/article/1166296--ontario-budget-mcguinty-agrees-to-horwath-s-tax-the-rich-scheme

A hearty congratulations to Horwath.


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: RogueBeaver on April 23, 2012, 02:56:37 PM
I'm not surprised. McGuinty is a left-Liberal and more generally has the spine of a jellyfish.


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: Hatman 🍁 on April 23, 2012, 03:01:45 PM
Dipper quits caucus over gun registry.

http://www.theglobeandmail.com/news/politics/ottawa-notebook/gun-registry-opponent-bruce-hyer-quits-ndp-to-sit-as-independent/article2411269/




I intern in his office! But, I haven't been there in a couple of weeks. This really affects me a lot. I've been counting on contract work in that office to supplement my income.

What do I do?

:(


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: RogueBeaver on April 23, 2012, 03:10:52 PM
Dipper quits caucus over gun registry.

http://www.theglobeandmail.com/news/politics/ottawa-notebook/gun-registry-opponent-bruce-hyer-quits-ndp-to-sit-as-independent/article2411269/




I intern in his office! But, I haven't been there in a couple of weeks. This really affects me a lot. I've been counting on contract work in that office to supplement my income.

What do I do?

:(

How does that change your employment status? Or is your contract to him include something about the party?


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: Hatman 🍁 on April 23, 2012, 03:16:50 PM
Dipper quits caucus over gun registry.

http://www.theglobeandmail.com/news/politics/ottawa-notebook/gun-registry-opponent-bruce-hyer-quits-ndp-to-sit-as-independent/article2411269/




I intern in his office! But, I haven't been there in a couple of weeks. This really affects me a lot. I've been counting on contract work in that office to supplement my income.

What do I do?

:(

How does that change your employment status? Or is your contract to him include something about the party?

Well, it's contract work. I work for x hrs for x $ on certain office projects. I don't think party affiliation matters. I just hate turncoats, so this is just a struggle within myself. Do I even put my work in his office on my resume when looking for an NDP job? Hmm...


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: You kip if you want to... on April 23, 2012, 03:18:37 PM
Dipper quits caucus over gun registry.

http://www.theglobeandmail.com/news/politics/ottawa-notebook/gun-registry-opponent-bruce-hyer-quits-ndp-to-sit-as-independent/article2411269/




I intern in his office! But, I haven't been there in a couple of weeks. This really affects me a lot. I've been counting on contract work in that office to supplement my income.

What do I do?

:(

How does that change your employment status? Or is your contract to him include something about the party?

Well, it's contract work. I work for x hrs for x $ on certain office projects. I don't think party affiliation matters. I just hate turncoats, so this is just a struggle within myself. Do I even put my work in his office on my resume when looking for an NDP job? Hmm...

No one has to know you worked there beyond his defection...


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: Hatman 🍁 on April 23, 2012, 03:20:06 PM
Dipper quits caucus over gun registry.

http://www.theglobeandmail.com/news/politics/ottawa-notebook/gun-registry-opponent-bruce-hyer-quits-ndp-to-sit-as-independent/article2411269/




I intern in his office! But, I haven't been there in a couple of weeks. This really affects me a lot. I've been counting on contract work in that office to supplement my income.

What do I do?

:(

How does that change your employment status? Or is your contract to him include something about the party?

Well, it's contract work. I work for x hrs for x $ on certain office projects. I don't think party affiliation matters. I just hate turncoats, so this is just a struggle within myself. Do I even put my work in his office on my resume when looking for an NDP job? Hmm...

No one has to know you worked there beyond his defection...

:D


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: Hatman 🍁 on April 23, 2012, 03:31:53 PM
Ok, well, I'm going into the office on Wednesday. We'll see how things go from there. Probably won't share any information though.

FTR, while Hyer endorsed Cullen in the leadership race he said he would be happy with Mulcair.

""I have been thinking carefully about a successor since Jack's tragic death. I have worked with most of the candidates for over three years, and am impressed by most of them. I have questioned them all closely. All the candidates got back to me with thoughtful responses to my questions except for Peggy Nash. I will be voting for only 3 nominees on the preferential ballot: Nathan Cullen, Thomas Mulcair, and Paul Dewar."


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: Holmes on April 23, 2012, 03:39:53 PM
A Northern Ontario New Democrat. I'm pissed right now. Stupid.


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: RogueBeaver on April 23, 2012, 03:43:40 PM
What does everyone make of Mulcair's Shadow Cabinet reshuffle? Certainly making a better use of available talent than either Harper or Rae is ATM.


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: MaxQue on April 23, 2012, 03:47:06 PM
What does everyone make of Mulcair's Shadow Cabinet reshuffle? Certainly making a better use of available talent than either Harper or Rae is ATM.

Well, Bruce Hyer didn't like it, apparently.


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: Holmes on April 23, 2012, 05:46:04 PM
Well screw Bruce Hyer. He doesn't care about Northern Ontario. Just cares about himself. Jerk.


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: Holmes on April 23, 2012, 07:40:05 PM
I'm so furious right now. First this. Now that idiot Bev Oda's hotel scandal, after Harper's budget cut her ministry by the tune of nearly $400 million and after his budget raises our retirement age and cuts our pensions. And it cost the taxpayers $665 a night. Of course, she paid the difference. But it's like we're paying them. We are paying them to f.uck us over. And they're laughing. Because they win, they always win. They lie and cheat and they always win. I can't stand it.


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: RogueBeaver on April 23, 2012, 08:01:10 PM
Oda's not my favourite either- I think her ministry should be shuttered entirely (indeed, the Cabinet can be nearly halved IMO) or at least handed over to someone competent. Say, Chris Alexander.


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: MaxQue on April 23, 2012, 08:33:20 PM
Oh, another Liberal is saying than Quebec is heading for independence.
Michael Ignatieff.

http://www.canada.com/news/Quebec+headed+independence+Ignatieff+tells+radio/6505048/story.html (http://www.canada.com/news/Quebec+headed+independence+Ignatieff+tells+radio/6505048/story.html)


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: RogueBeaver on April 23, 2012, 08:48:35 PM
Who was the first? As usual, Iggy's talking BS. That issue is left to a trio of Pelciquistes- Dion, Garneau and Trudeau.


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: Smid on April 23, 2012, 09:05:44 PM
A Northern Ontario New Democrat. I'm pissed right now. Stupid.

So his reasoning is that 'in four years, if the NDP forms government and if Mulcair is Prime Minister, he plans on reintroducing the long gun registry and this is likely to be a whipped vote? Oh, and by the way, it just so happens that, and this is just a coincidence, I was passed over for a shadow ministry. My constituents are therefore not valued by Mulcair...' That's what I take from his statement on his website (http://www.brucehyer.ca/?Media_Room:Press_Releases:Bruce_Hyer_to_sit_as_an_Independent), anyway:

Quote
Bruce Hyer to sit as an Independent
Thunder Bay-Superior North MP to sit without party affiliation in Parliament


April 23, 2012

OTTAWA – Bruce Hyer is dropping his caucus affiliation with the New Democratic Party to sit as an Independent in Parliament.

“I was honoured when the voters of Thunder Bay-Superior North chose me to be their voice in the House of Commons. I committed to them to be honest, open, and accessible, and to keep my campaign promises.” said Hyer in Parliament. “I have much respect for most Members in this House. But our three main parties require lockstep discipline, with little room for meaningful public debate... or for putting constituents ahead of party politics.”

“Instead of cooperation and compromise, voters often see mindless solidarity, where political parties are always right and voters are always wrong. One example is the long gun registry, where there has been no real compromise at all. Mr. Mulcair has made it clear he will bring back the long gun registry, and will use the whip. I am also concerned that Mr. Mulcair does not seem willing to co-operate with other parties on important issues. And on climate change, parties are hopelessly locked to Cap & Trade or outright inaction, making compromise to achieve even piecemeal progress impossible.”

First elected in 2008, Hyer was left out the NDP shadow cabinet announcement last week. “One of the jobs of any new Leader is to unite their party, and there are different ways to do that. Being excluded from any position was a clear message that my constituents will be muzzled.”

“As an Independent voice, I will better be able to represent my constituents in Parliament. I will focus on doing what I have worked hard to do for over three years: Help the people being mistreated by federal agencies like CRA or EI. Work with all parties or MPs when possible to make Parliament work. And speak up inside and outside the House for issues important for Northwestern Ontario, and Canada.” Hyer concluded.


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: Gass3268 on April 24, 2012, 01:09:21 AM
Anybody care to give me a quick rundown of politics in Canada? Like what are the major parties, what the political geography is like (where are the given parties strong and vice versa) and recent changes. All I know is that the Conservatives are in power an they do really well in Alberta. I'd really like to know more. 


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: Smid on April 24, 2012, 04:42:47 AM
Anybody care to give me a quick rundown of politics in Canada? Like what are the major parties, what the political geography is like (where are the given parties strong and vice versa) and recent changes. All I know is that the Conservatives are in power an they do really well in Alberta. I'd really like to know more. 

There are five parties with MPs elected federally - the Conservatives (with a majority), the left-wing NDP (Official Opposition), the slightly-to-the-left-of-centre Liberals (were Opposition until last year, when they lost most of their seats, including their leader's), the Bloc Quebecois (platform is independence for Quebec), and the Greens hold a seat in BC.

With the exception of the NDP, provincial parties aren't affiliated with their federal counterparts, I believe, and while the NDP did best in Quebec federally, there is no provincial NDP in that province. This will lead you to correctly infer that provincial and national elections aren't held concurrently.

There are numerous maps in the International Elections gallery, and discussions about the politics in the International Elections board, just a few boards up.

Earl has a great website, which you should be able to find through google, although there are links in the Alberta election thread, too, he calls it Canadian Election Atlas, and hosts it at blogspot. The506, another poster on here, has a really good webpage, too, but I can't remember the link.

So the maps make sense, Conservatives (Tories) are blue, the NDP (Dippers) are orange, the Liberals (Grits) are red, the Bloc are light blue/aqua and the Greens are, well, green (except in provincial politics, where it is the various conservative parties - Wildrose, the Saskatchewan Party or the Yukon Party).

Oh, and in case you hadn't seen, the NDP stands for New Democrats.


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: Holmes on April 24, 2012, 09:05:33 AM
I think the federal Liberals are associated with some of the provincial parties, ftr. I believe they're all in the Maritimes, though.


New CROP poll of Quebec has NDP at 51%, Bloc at 18%, Liberals at 15%, Conservatives at 12%. (http://www.cyberpresse.ca/actualites/quebec-canada/politique-canadienne/201204/24/01-4518287-mulcair-seul-sur-la-patinoire-au-quebec.php?utm_categorieinterne=trafficdrivers&utm_contenuinterne=cyberpresse_BO2_quebec_canada_178_accueil_POS3) So which ridings wouldn't go NDP? Mount Royal? Maybe Saint-Laurent-Cartierville? Beauce?


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: RogueBeaver on April 24, 2012, 10:04:19 AM
I think the federal Liberals are associated with some of the provincial parties, ftr. I believe they're all in the Maritimes, though.


New CROP poll of Quebec has NDP at 51%, Bloc at 18%, Liberals at 15%, Conservatives at 12%. (http://www.cyberpresse.ca/actualites/quebec-canada/politique-canadienne/201204/24/01-4518287-mulcair-seul-sur-la-patinoire-au-quebec.php?utm_categorieinterne=trafficdrivers&utm_contenuinterne=cyberpresse_BO2_quebec_canada_178_accueil_POS3) So which ridings wouldn't go NDP? Mount Royal? Maybe Saint-Laurent-Cartierville? Beauce?

Saint-Laurent-Cartierville, Beauce, Papineau, Saint-Leonard-Saint-Michel. That's it.


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: Gass3268 on April 24, 2012, 11:00:09 AM
Anybody care to give me a quick rundown of politics in Canada? Like what are the major parties, what the political geography is like (where are the given parties strong and vice versa) and recent changes. All I know is that the Conservatives are in power an they do really well in Alberta. I'd really like to know more. 

There are five parties with MPs elected federally - the Conservatives (with a majority), the left-wing NDP (Official Opposition), the slightly-to-the-left-of-centre Liberals (were Opposition until last year, when they lost most of their seats, including their leader's), the Bloc Quebecois (platform is independence for Quebec), and the Greens hold a seat in BC.

With the exception of the NDP, provincial parties aren't affiliated with their federal counterparts, I believe, and while the NDP did best in Quebec federally, there is no provincial NDP in that province. This will lead you to correctly infer that provincial and national elections aren't held concurrently.

There are numerous maps in the International Elections gallery, and discussions about the politics in the International Elections board, just a few boards up.

Earl has a great website, which you should be able to find through google, although there are links in the Alberta election thread, too, he calls it Canadian Election Atlas, and hosts it at blogspot. The506, another poster on here, has a really good webpage, too, but I can't remember the link.

So the maps make sense, Conservatives (Tories) are blue, the NDP (Dippers) are orange, the Liberals (Grits) are red, the Bloc are light blue/aqua and the Greens are, well, green (except in provincial politics, where it is the various conservative parties - Wildrose, the Saskatchewan Party or the Yukon Party).

Oh, and in case you hadn't seen, the NDP stands for New Democrats.

Thanks a lot!


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: Holmes on April 24, 2012, 11:55:45 AM
I think the federal Liberals are associated with some of the provincial parties, ftr. I believe they're all in the Maritimes, though.


New CROP poll of Quebec has NDP at 51%, Bloc at 18%, Liberals at 15%, Conservatives at 12%. (http://www.cyberpresse.ca/actualites/quebec-canada/politique-canadienne/201204/24/01-4518287-mulcair-seul-sur-la-patinoire-au-quebec.php?utm_categorieinterne=trafficdrivers&utm_contenuinterne=cyberpresse_BO2_quebec_canada_178_accueil_POS3) So which ridings wouldn't go NDP? Mount Royal? Maybe Saint-Laurent-Cartierville? Beauce?

Saint-Laurent-Cartierville, Beauce, Papineau, Saint-Leonard-Saint-Michel. That's it.

I think Papineau would fall, but not Mount Royal.


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: RogueBeaver on April 24, 2012, 12:04:01 PM
I think the federal Liberals are associated with some of the provincial parties, ftr. I believe they're all in the Maritimes, though.


New CROP poll of Quebec has NDP at 51%, Bloc at 18%, Liberals at 15%, Conservatives at 12%. (http://www.cyberpresse.ca/actualites/quebec-canada/politique-canadienne/201204/24/01-4518287-mulcair-seul-sur-la-patinoire-au-quebec.php?utm_categorieinterne=trafficdrivers&utm_contenuinterne=cyberpresse_BO2_quebec_canada_178_accueil_POS3) So which ridings wouldn't go NDP? Mount Royal? Maybe Saint-Laurent-Cartierville? Beauce?

Saint-Laurent-Cartierville, Beauce, Papineau, Saint-Leonard-Saint-Michel. That's it.

I think Papineau would fall, but not Mount Royal.

Trudeau doubled his margin last time. Cotler barely won. Don't underestimate Justin as a campaigner. Especially not when he runs on C&C- constituency services and charisma. Cotler was so shaken that he almost immediately decided that 2011 was his last election, and this is an open secret in the Anglo community.  Maybe Coderre survives in Bourassa as well.

That said, I'm discounting what the polls say for at least another 15-18 months. Remember that Mulcair could win 70 seats in Quebec while Harper still wins a majority.


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: Hatman 🍁 on April 24, 2012, 04:33:22 PM
Papineau can go NDP with a strong campaign.


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: rob in cal on April 24, 2012, 05:55:19 PM
I wonder how the new Ontario budget deal will play out politically.  Seems to me like a modest victory for the NDP, and also a precedent for Liberals NDP working together maybe. 
    It might also energize the left wing base, with this example that voting does matter, that in fact politicians will sometimes vote to tax the rich.


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: RogueBeaver on April 24, 2012, 06:11:02 PM
I wonder how the new Ontario budget deal will play out politically.  Seems to me like a modest victory for the NDP, and also a precedent for Liberals NDP working together maybe. 
    It might also energize the left wing base, with this example that voting does matter, that in fact politicians will sometimes vote to tax the rich.

Short-term boost for the NDP.


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: MaxQue on April 25, 2012, 05:08:41 AM
I agree with Rogue for Mount Royal, not for Papineau.

It's well-known than it's Cotler last term, and, if he leaves, Conservatives should take the seat, except if Liberals manages to find a very good candidate.

For Papineau, Trudeau would win, but that's because polls are saying than Liberals are still leading with non-Franco Québécois.


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: LastVoter on April 25, 2012, 05:00:16 PM
Anybody have a good 1945 federal election map with ridings?


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: RogueBeaver on April 25, 2012, 06:38:27 PM
No, but I do have the annual Hill Times survey.

http://www.hilltimes.com/sexy-and-savvy/hill-life-people/2012/04/23/baird-voted-best-cabinet-minister-in-question-period/30519?page_requested=1


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: Hatman 🍁 on April 25, 2012, 10:13:54 PM
Anybody have a good 1945 federal election map with ridings?

Why?


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: LastVoter on April 25, 2012, 10:15:12 PM
I want to see where CCF won seats outside of SK.


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: Hatman 🍁 on April 25, 2012, 10:16:23 PM
I want to see where CCF won seats outside of SK.

Well, here's the results by riding: http://www.parl.gc.ca/About/Parliament/FederalRidingsHistory/hfer.asp?Language=E&Search=Gres&genElection=20&ridProvince=0&submit1=Search

If you want to know where the ridings are, you can click on the names and it will give you the boundary descriptions.


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: Hatman 🍁 on April 25, 2012, 10:24:08 PM
Cariboo - Central BC
Kootenay East- Eastern BC
Skeena - Northern BC
Vancouver East - self explanatory
Churchill - Northern Manitoba
Dauphin - Western Manitoba
Selkirk - Eastern Manitoba
Winnipeg North - self explanatory
Winnipeg North Centre - " "
Cape Breton South - Cape Breton Island, Nova Scotia

Ridings coloured based on who currently holds the seats


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: LastVoter on April 26, 2012, 01:26:57 AM
Ontario results are a  little depressing after reading the wiki article. I was hoping there would be more PC vs CCF races, I could only find one.


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: Hash on April 26, 2012, 07:14:21 AM
I think that I do have the maps for the Ontario boundaries from WWI up until the 1950s, so I could at least do ON.


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: Hatman 🍁 on April 26, 2012, 09:58:07 AM
I think that I do have the maps for the Ontario boundaries from WWI up until the 1950s, so I could at least do ON.

We're still waiting to see these maps, Hash ;)


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: Holmes on April 27, 2012, 08:58:41 AM
Nanos has new numbers.

Conservatives - 34.7
NDP - 32.4
Liberals - 23.3
Green - 4.2
BQ - 3.9 (http://www.nanosresearch.com/library/polls/POLNAT-W12-T534E.pdf)

Hmm. NDP has passed the Grits in Ontario in a Nanos poll.

New Forum poll as well.

NDP - 36
Conservatives - 33
Liberals - 22
BQ - 6
Greens - 2 (http://www.thestar.com/news/canada/politics/article/1168871--forum-research-poll-puts-ndp-ahead-of-the-conservatives)

pst liberal supports go ndp.


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: Хahar 🤔 on April 27, 2012, 04:30:22 PM
The crosstabs on the Nanos poll seem odd. The NDP's ahead in the Atlantic provinces but nowhere near the Tories in British Columbia?


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: Filuwaúrdjan on April 27, 2012, 04:33:33 PM
Eh, weirdness can happen with that type of thing. I remember a poll breakdown from 2003 or 2004 that had the LibDems leading in the Midlands. So... er... yeah. Basically.


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: RogueBeaver on April 27, 2012, 04:33:46 PM
The crosstabs on the Nanos poll seem odd. The NDP's ahead in the Atlantic provinces but nowhere near the Tories in British Columbia?

This is what I hate about our pollsters- such wide variations.


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: Phony Moderate on April 27, 2012, 04:47:39 PM
What's the highest percentage the NDP have ever had in a federal VI poll?


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: RogueBeaver on April 27, 2012, 04:49:45 PM
Broadbent had numbers with the NDP in first during Mulroney's first term a couple of times. Dunno what the precise numbers were.


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: Holmes on April 27, 2012, 05:25:44 PM
In '87, right?

I'm not gonna put too much stock in a single poll's regional crosstabs. The only thing we can be sure of is that the Conservatives are doing well in Alberta, NDP is doing well in Quebec and BC, Ontario is in play with slight Torie lead and everything else is up in the air.


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: Hatman 🍁 on April 28, 2012, 12:16:35 AM
37% in 1987: http://www.cbc.ca/archives/categories/politics/parties-leaders/ed-broadbent/ndp-tops-the-polls.html


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: Bacon King on April 29, 2012, 03:20:56 AM
37% in 1987: http://www.cbc.ca/archives/categories/politics/parties-leaders/ed-broadbent/ndp-tops-the-polls.html

They polled 41% later that year:

Quote
As pollster Angus Reid predicted in this clip, the surge in popularity for the NDP was not just a blip. Two months after this clip, in July 1987, the NDP was at 41 per cent popularity compared with 35 per cent for the Liberals and 23 per cent for the Progressive Conservatives.


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: Hatman 🍁 on April 29, 2012, 01:30:19 PM
Proof that the NDP isn't at its all time peak.


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: RogueBeaver on April 30, 2012, 10:02:17 PM
We were all totally shocked by this. Right?

http://news.nationalpost.com/2012/04/30/bob-rae-likely-to-to-resign-from-interim-gig-to-run-for-liberal-party-leadership/



Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: Holmes on May 02, 2012, 05:52:55 PM
Rae is a loser. With Mulcair at the helm of the NDP and considering his past, he won't bring the party up. For being such a Parliamentarian, he's been disappointing lately. If only he'd retire so the NDP had a better chance at Toronto Centre.


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: RogueBeaver on May 02, 2012, 08:08:39 PM
Who else is there that's a) in caucus b) willing to run c) would do a better job?


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: Holmes on May 02, 2012, 08:20:45 PM
No one really fits that description.


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: RogueBeaver on May 02, 2012, 08:39:17 PM
Yeah, there are people who fit b/c or a/c but none who fit all 3.


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: RogueBeaver on May 02, 2012, 10:02:30 PM
If ever Harper had an excuse to sack both MacKay and Clement simultaneously, this is it.

http://www.hilltimes.com/news/news/2012/05/02/dnd-amended-report-on-f-35-status-two-weeks-after-ag-ferguson-released-his-report/30623

He'd certainly be better than Hudak, but is far too valuable where he is.

http://www.thestar.com/news/canada/politics/article/1171299--tim-harper-stephen-harper-tells-jim-flaherty-to-lay-off-ontario?bn=1

WTF? Don't troll.

http://news.nationalpost.com/2012/05/02/harper-demands-mulcair-apologize-for-suggestion-that-conrad-black-decision-was-racist/



Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: Хahar 🤔 on May 03, 2012, 11:30:29 AM
Who do you folk have in mind who would do a better job and are in caucus, but won't run?


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: RogueBeaver on May 04, 2012, 04:18:49 PM
So this is Geulph-only, at least thus far?

http://www.ottawacitizen.com/news/politics/Robocalls%2Baddress%2Bsame%2Bused%2BConservative%2Bcandidate%2Bcampaign%2Bworker%2BElections%2BCanada%2Balleges/6567696/story.html


No sh**t.

http://www.theglobeandmail.com/news/national/british-columbia/bc-liberals-would-face-thrashing-if-election-held-now-poll-shows/article2422205/

How Redford won.

http://www.theglobeandmail.com/news/politics/inside-albertas-winning-progressive-conservative-campaign/article2422953/


Not yet, if ever (Over to you, Bob Rae).

http://www2.macleans.ca/2012/05/04/justin-trudeau-should-be-the-next-leader-of-the-liberal-party-no-seriously/


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: Holmes on May 04, 2012, 07:09:42 PM
Haha. "We're so horrible and pathetic, let's change our name. Maybe people won't know who we really are."


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: True Federalist (진정한 연방 주의자) on May 04, 2012, 07:59:46 PM
Haha. "We're so horrible and pathetic, let's change our name. Maybe people won't know who we really are."

True, but suppose the B.C. Conservatives and B.C. Liberals were to merge, what would be an acceptable name?  B.C. Progressives?


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: RogueBeaver on May 04, 2012, 08:03:54 PM
Why should they merge at this stage? The Tories may be able to pull off a provincial equivalent of what happened federally in the '90s. Merger, but with the new party by and for the right. Dunno if Cummins is looking that far ahead, but that would certainly be my long-term goal.


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: True Federalist (진정한 연방 주의자) on May 04, 2012, 08:40:38 PM
I have no idea why they should merge (other than the obvious of forming a united front against the BC NDP.  But the article you gave the link for on the idea of a name change for the B.C. Liberals indicated that their leader thought a name change would help the prospects of a merge.


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: RogueBeaver on May 05, 2012, 06:57:04 PM
Even if there is pressure, 99% sure that it comes to nothing.

http://www.thestar.com/news/canada/politics/article/1173339--hebert-is-justin-trudeau-the-liberals-salvation


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: RogueBeaver on May 06, 2012, 06:51:45 PM
Dix said on QP that he's completely opposed to Gateway and isn't so hot on other new pipeline routes either. Harper and Redford are going to have a serious problem on this issue a year from now.

More Justinmania, this time from Tim Harper.

http://www.thestar.com/news/canada/politics/article/1174001--tim-harper-bob-rae-tells-liberals-to-remain-calm-hold-the-middle-ground

Mulcair parrots McGuinty.

http://www.theprovince.com/business/High%2Bloonie%2Bcausing%2Bharm%2Bsays%2BMulcair/6574256/story.html

Holy shoot. I'm agreeing with Carol Goar.

http://www.thestar.com/opinion/editorialopinion/article/1173518--after-six-years-in-government-harper-is-getting-sloppy


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: Holmes on May 10, 2012, 05:17:02 PM
Harris Decima Federal Poll (http://www.harrisdecima.ca/sites/default/files/releases/2012/05/10/hd-2012-05-10-en1382.pdf) (changes from April 2)

Canada
NDP 34% (+2)
CON 30% (-4)
LIB 20% (+1)
GRN 8% (same)
BQ 7% (+1)


Damn, those Atlantic and Ontario numbers. BC and Quebec aren't looking as hot as they were, though.


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: RogueBeaver on May 10, 2012, 05:19:13 PM
Seat count anyone?


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: Holmes on May 10, 2012, 05:21:37 PM
With the 30 new seats? Slim Conservative minority, I bet.


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: RogueBeaver on May 10, 2012, 05:28:17 PM
Presumably you guys are still in second since our Grit friends still don't have a real regional base. Quebec will determine what happens, again.


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: Holmes on May 10, 2012, 05:45:13 PM
I know. A 32-31 tie in Ontario can still be 30+ more Conservative seats than the NDP in the province.


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: LastVoter on May 10, 2012, 06:23:22 PM
NDP really needs to swoop those non Alberta seats in the West.


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: RogueBeaver on May 10, 2012, 06:34:09 PM
BC is winnable for Dippers. Not so much SK, MB so long as Mulcair keeps parroting McGuinty with talk of "Dutch disease" plus C&T.


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: Smid on May 10, 2012, 06:39:37 PM
BC is winnable for Dippers. Not so much SK, MB so long as Mulcair keeps parroting McGuinty with talk of "Dutch disease" plus C&T.

I wonder how the NDP will be doing in the polls in BC once the unpopular Liberal government is voted out of office, and an NDP government installed?


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: RogueBeaver on May 10, 2012, 06:45:53 PM
Current levels or slightly better. I don't know much about Dix but he gives me the impression of soft-spoken middling-left, if that makes any sense.



Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: RogueBeaver on May 10, 2012, 10:13:08 PM
At Issue tonight: Everyone agreed that a) Mulcair's oilsands comments are regional wedge politics b) the government's anti-environmentalist hyperbole is way overdoing it.

I expect the next big news (besides the budget omnibus that only we uber-junkies are following) federally will be the federal Liberal executive setting their convention date next month. Immediately followed by Bob Rae's resignation.

Oh, and can someone please explain the "Coderre's a great organizer" meme that's so prevalent in the TO media? Probably part of their total ignorance about Quebec.


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: Holmes on May 14, 2012, 06:41:56 PM
Strange new national poll from Ipsos Reid. (http://www.globalnews.ca/federal+liberals+losing+support+as+ndp+tories+battle+for+top+spot+poll/6442640892/story.html?utm_source=facebook-twitter&utm_medium=link&utm_campaign=community)

Ipsos Reid

CON 37% (+3)
NDP 35% (+2)
LIB 19% (-2)
BQ 5% (-2)
GRN 3% (-1)

Quebec

NDP 45%
BQ 23%
LIB 17%
CON 13%
GRN 1%

Ontario

CON 36%
NDP 35%
LIB 23%
GRN 6%

Strange only because of the NDP's 22 point lead in Quebec and are in the mid thirties in Ontario, yet are in second place nationally... while every other poll has them ahead in BC and the Atlantic, and not too bad in the prairies. Wanna see crosstabs on this.

Regardless, mid thirties in Ontario is pretty good.


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: LastVoter on May 15, 2012, 12:14:51 AM
http://www.cbc.ca/news/canada/british-columbia/story/2012/05/14/bc-ndp-poll.html


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: Marokai Backbeat on May 15, 2012, 12:39:39 AM
http://www.cbc.ca/news/canada/british-columbia/story/2012/05/14/bc-ndp-poll.html

"Free enterprise coalition"? Really?


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: Хahar 🤔 on May 15, 2012, 12:50:46 AM
BC is winnable for Dippers. Not so much SK, MB so long as Mulcair keeps parroting McGuinty with talk of "Dutch disease" plus C&T.

I wonder how the NDP will be doing in the polls in BC once the unpopular Liberal government is voted out of office, and an NDP government installed?

That's the problem with looking at these poll numbers; they won't mean anything come 2015, since a provincial NDP government will have been in power for quite some time by then. It's the same deal in Manitoba.


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: Hatman 🍁 on May 15, 2012, 10:56:03 AM
http://www.cbc.ca/news/canada/british-columbia/story/2012/05/14/bc-ndp-poll.html

Wow. I thought he had a ceiling of ~45% in the province.

Well, the "free enterprise coalition" can coalesce all they want, they're not going to win with the NDP polling that high. BTW, I read that the BC Liberals are thinking of changing their name to the "BC Party". Considering their stupid rhetoric, wouldn't calling themselves the "Free enterprise Party" make more sense?


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: LastVoter on May 15, 2012, 03:08:00 PM
http://www.cbc.ca/news/canada/british-columbia/story/2012/05/14/bc-ndp-poll.html

Wow. I thought he had a ceiling of ~45% in the province.

Well, the "free enterprise coalition" can coalesce all they want, they're not going to win with the NDP polling that high. BTW, I read that the BC Liberals are thinking of changing their name to the "BC Party". Considering their stupid rhetoric, wouldn't calling themselves the "Free enterprise Party" make more sense?
I think most of BC residents forgot previous NDP government ;)


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: Vote UKIP! on May 15, 2012, 04:01:03 PM
Excuse me for interrupting the conversation, but would someone explain the primary differences between he Liberal Party and the NDP?

Also, is the Liberal Party done as a national party?


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: Hatman 🍁 on May 15, 2012, 04:05:13 PM
Liberal voters are the one's who are "too wealthy to vote NDP and too smart to vote Tory". Basically they are an establishment party, representing traditional Liberal views. They are economically centre-right, socially centre-left. The NDP is a traditional social democratic party, except until now has not been one of the establishment parties (and still isn't, really).

Only time will tell if the Liberals are dead. I hope so, though.


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: tpfkaw on May 15, 2012, 04:07:30 PM
Excuse me for interrupting the conversation, but would someone explain the primary differences between he Liberal Party and the NDP?

Not a Canadian, but the NDP is to the left of the Liberals.  The Liberals are essentially non-ideological, they tend to support leftist social policy and whatever economic policy they feel will win them the most votes (in the 90s they supported tax and spending cuts - but were elected on a platform of protectionism; in the recent election they literally copied most of the NDP platform and had it backfire on them).

Quote
Also, is the Liberal Party done as a national party?

Short term no, medium term maybe.


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: RogueBeaver on May 15, 2012, 04:13:13 PM
Brokerage isn't what it used to be. Catholics and immigrants used to be firmly in their corner, for instance.


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: Holmes on May 17, 2012, 06:37:30 AM
Forum Ontario poll (http://www.forumresearch.com/forms/News%20Archives/News%20Releases/18368_Ontario_Political_Issues_Poll_%28Forum_Research%29.pdf), May 14

Provincial:
Cons 34/ NDP 32/ Libs 27

Federal:
Cons 35/ NDP 35/ Libs 22

NDP up in 416 with 44%, but I'm not gonna trust that with such small sample size. Still, does anything think they can carry Toronto Center with that number?


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: Hatman 🍁 on May 17, 2012, 09:25:20 AM
Perhaps, but especially if they divided the riding in half; they would win the south end easily. However, if they make two skinny ridings out of it, who knows? (TC is set to get smaller, as it's over populated)


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: RogueBeaver on May 17, 2012, 03:12:14 PM
Rae would probably win on a personal vote, like most remaining Grits.


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: RogueBeaver on May 18, 2012, 12:37:12 PM
Etobicoke Centre result overturned- will Opitz appeal to the Supremes?

http://www.cbc.ca/news/politics/story/2012/05/18/pol-court-throws-out-etobicoke-centre-election-wrzesnewskyj.html


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: RogueBeaver on May 18, 2012, 03:43:36 PM
Deschamps is retiring from the Court.

http://www.theglobeandmail.com/news/politics/supreme-court-justice-retires-giving-harper-chance-to-appoint-majority/article2437085/


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: Smid on May 19, 2012, 03:18:08 AM
Shouldn't be overly hard to get the 9 vote margin in Montmagny - L'Islet - Kamouraska - Riviére-du-Loup overturned based on this ruling.

Hopefully the five people who were found to have voted twice cop a hefty fine.


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: Holmes on May 19, 2012, 12:51:14 PM
But where does it end? This is so stupid. I'd rather just defer to Elections Canada's judgement and handling of the issue, rather than election results being contested at court and overturned whenever the results are close, forcing by-elections.


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: RogueBeaver on May 19, 2012, 12:54:03 PM
But where does it end? This is so stupid. I'd rather just defer to Elections Canada's judgement and handling of the issue, rather than election results being contested at court and overturned whenever the results are close, forcing by-elections.

Hear, hear. It already went through an automatic recount last year.


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: 2952-0-0 on May 19, 2012, 04:13:35 PM
Shouldn't be overly hard to get the 9 vote margin in Montmagny - L'Islet - Kamouraska - Riviére-du-Loup overturned based on this ruling.

Hopefully the five people who were found to have voted twice cop a hefty fine.

If I were the CPC strategist I wouldn't risk it. Given the current NDP honeymoon and anti-Harper sentiment in Quebec, a by-election could well result in a solid NDP victory and prompt accusations of Conservatives wasting money for being sore losers.


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: RogueBeaver on May 19, 2012, 04:17:01 PM
Shouldn't be overly hard to get the 9 vote margin in Montmagny - L'Islet - Kamouraska - Riviére-du-Loup overturned based on this ruling.

Hopefully the five people who were found to have voted twice cop a hefty fine.

If I were the CPC strategist I wouldn't risk it. Given the current NDP honeymoon and anti-Harper sentiment in Quebec, a by-election could well result in a solid NDP victory and prompt accusations of Conservatives wasting money for being sore losers.

I agree with you 100%. The flirtation between Harper and Quebec ended during the 2008 campaign and won't return unless Mulcair stumbles horribly on a Quebec-related issue.


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: Smid on May 20, 2012, 06:24:23 AM
Shouldn't be overly hard to get the 9 vote margin in Montmagny - L'Islet - Kamouraska - Riviére-du-Loup overturned based on this ruling.

Hopefully the five people who were found to have voted twice cop a hefty fine.

If I were the CPC strategist I wouldn't risk it. Given the current NDP honeymoon and anti-Harper sentiment in Quebec, a by-election could well result in a solid NDP victory and prompt accusations of Conservatives wasting money for being sore losers.

I agree with you 100%. The flirtation between Harper and Quebec ended during the 2008 campaign and won't return unless Mulcair stumbles horribly on a Quebec-related issue.

I don't disagree. I was trying to make the same point Holmes made of "where does it all end" by drawing attention to other narrow margins. I don't like this ruling at all. Mistakes were made by Elections Canada but it's the Tory MP who is penalised despite there being no evidence at all (nor, from what I read in the article, even any accusation) of wrongdoing on his part. If anything, it encourages voter fraud - a party could have unenrolled voters turn out in marginal ridings, and hope no other parties realise if they win, but then bring it up and have the result overturned if they lose. Anyway, I just think it's wrong that the person penalised is someone against whom there is no evidence of vote fraud. Hopefully there is an appeal and hopefully the Supreme Court overturns the judgement.


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: RogueBeaver on May 20, 2012, 10:04:34 PM
Even the Star wants Mulcair to back down on the oilsands.

http://www.thestar.com/news/canada/politics/article/1181476--tim-harper-tom-mulcair-will-not-move-but-conservatives-define-oilsands-debate

Another Air Canada pilots' strike?

http://www.winnipegfreepress.com/canada/air-canada-pilots-dispute-goes-to-arbitration-after-negotiations-fail-152161675.html


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: Holmes on May 21, 2012, 09:28:55 AM
Criticizing the oil sands'  environmental and economic effects on the rest of the country is sacrilege, yes. They are what saved our country from economic doom and are our future. We are the past.


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: Hash on May 21, 2012, 10:47:28 AM
If Mulcair doesn't back down on the oil sands, I could feasibly vote NDP next time.


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: RogueBeaver on May 21, 2012, 08:20:29 PM
No surprise.

http://www.theglobeandmail.com/news/world/no-canadian-boots-on-afghan-soil-after-2014-harper-says/article2439178/


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: Holmes on May 22, 2012, 05:53:02 PM
() (http://abacusdata.ca/2012/05/22/canadian-politics-conservatives-and-ndp-neck-and-neck/)

I do believe what's keeping the Tories afloat is their support in Alberta and the prairies.


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: Хahar 🤔 on May 22, 2012, 10:07:01 PM
It's nothing new, but I don't think that'll ever stop being strange, considering where Canadian socialism comes from.


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: RogueBeaver on May 27, 2012, 10:46:35 AM
I don't see this being a major issue, given that none of the party leaders are particularly wealthy.

http://www.ottawacitizen.com/news/NDP%20leader%20has%20remortgaged%20his%20home%2011%20times%20since%20early%201980s/6685607/story.html


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: RogueBeaver on May 30, 2012, 12:49:25 PM
Brison as interim? :D

http://www.theglobeandmail.com/news/politics/john-ibbitson/wholl-lead-the-liberals-for-the-next-year/article2447233/


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: Hatman 🍁 on June 08, 2012, 03:33:58 PM
It seems the new consultant (Frank Hall) EKOS (where I work) brought in is involved in the latest Tory scandal: http://news.nationalpost.com/2012/06/06/tory-robocall-defence-mp-himself-under-investigation-by-elections-canada/

Very amusing, since nobody likes him or his changes.


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: RogueBeaver on June 08, 2012, 04:48:50 PM
For the first time in a while, I agree with her.

http://www.thestar.com/news/canada/politics/article/1208502--chantal-hebert-jury-is-still-out-on-thomas-mulcair-s-makeover-of-the-ndp

Plus the Del Maestro stuff from earlier this week. As I've said often the guy is our Coderre- a loudmouthed embarrassment to the party. Dunno why on earth Harper wants him as his PS.


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: RogueBeaver on June 09, 2012, 02:06:11 PM
Major Cabinet shuffle incoming.

http://www.thestar.com/news/canada/politics/article/1208579--cabinet-shuffle-expected-to-put-new-face-on-stephen-harper-government


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: Holmes on June 09, 2012, 05:32:43 PM
Harper really needs it. It'll be nice to see some losers being replaced with soon-to-be losers.


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: RogueBeaver on June 09, 2012, 07:59:23 PM
1) Abolish Oda's ministry and put it back in Foreign Affairs as a division, where it belongs.

2) Replace MacKay with Alexander.

3) James Moore goes to Environment.

4) Shelly Glover becomes Vic Toews' parliamentary secretary, in line to replace him in a couple of shuffles.

5) Keep Nicholson where he is.


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: HagridOfTheDeep on June 09, 2012, 08:01:53 PM
Hell, Bev Oda just needs to be fired. What an embarrassment.


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: RogueBeaver on June 09, 2012, 08:15:17 PM
Hell, Bev Oda just needs to be fired. What an embarrassment.

Harper doesn't like firing people from Cabinet entirely. Simply because a) admitting he was wrong b) puts him on the political defensive. Prefers to wait things out- Chretien did the same thing later in his premiership (Jane Stewart anyone?).


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: HagridOfTheDeep on June 09, 2012, 08:22:05 PM
Except don't you think that his persona of a man with an iron grip is damaging? The only reason Harper has managed to do so well is because he's lucked out with some hilariously weak competition. That might not be the case next time around.


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: Holmes on June 09, 2012, 10:41:01 PM
Hell, Bev Oda just needs to be fired. What an embarrassment.

He can always... entice her to resign.


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: Hash on June 10, 2012, 07:29:25 AM
I don't know why I care or am even looking forward to this shuffle, considering that Harper will only be shifting his gang of morons around, without anything changing. At the very least, he should fire the criminals like Oda or MacKay.


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: Hatman 🍁 on June 10, 2012, 10:39:34 AM
I knew everything cost more in Nunavut, but some of these prices are really shocking: http://www.huffingtonpost.ca/2012/06/08/nunavut-food-hunger-protest_n_1581485.html#s=more231471

$82 for a 12 pack of Ginger Ale (355mL cans)!


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: True Federalist (진정한 연방 주의자) on June 10, 2012, 12:10:14 PM
I knew everything cost more in Nunavut, but some of these prices are really shocking: http://www.huffingtonpost.ca/2012/06/08/nunavut-food-hunger-protest_n_1581485.html#s=more231471

$82 for a 12 pack of Ginger Ale (355mL cans)!

It may sound heartless, but no one is forcing them to live there.


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: Hatman 🍁 on June 10, 2012, 12:31:09 PM
I knew everything cost more in Nunavut, but some of these prices are really shocking: http://www.huffingtonpost.ca/2012/06/08/nunavut-food-hunger-protest_n_1581485.html#s=more231471

$82 for a 12 pack of Ginger Ale (355mL cans)!

It may sound heartless, but no one is forcing them to live there.

(Ignoring the asinine suggestion for a moment) But, what if they can't afford to get out? There's no roads to Iqaluit.


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: Holmes on June 10, 2012, 03:08:49 PM
I knew everything cost more in Nunavut, but some of these prices are really shocking: http://www.huffingtonpost.ca/2012/06/08/nunavut-food-hunger-protest_n_1581485.html#s=more231471

$82 for a 12 pack of Ginger Ale (355mL cans)!

It may sound heartless, but no one is forcing them to live there.

If that's your response to income inequality, hunger and high food prices in the northern territories, then you wouldn't make a good social democrat. But I'm sure you already knew that. :)


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: minionofmidas on June 10, 2012, 03:16:11 PM
No one is forcing them to import packaged southern foods, though. Though that concern is answered in the article.
Do they pay gasoline taxes up north? Cause hunters on snowmobiles don't use roads...


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: Hatman 🍁 on June 10, 2012, 06:19:59 PM
Time to invest in green house agriculture? The population is small enough to make it worth while.


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: True Federalist (진정한 연방 주의자) on June 10, 2012, 07:59:28 PM
I knew everything cost more in Nunavut, but some of these prices are really shocking: http://www.huffingtonpost.ca/2012/06/08/nunavut-food-hunger-protest_n_1581485.html#s=more231471

$82 for a 12 pack of Ginger Ale (355mL cans)!

It may sound heartless, but no one is forcing them to live there.

If that's your response to income inequality, hunger and high food prices in the northern territories, then you wouldn't make a good social democrat. But I'm sure you already knew that. :)

How does providing subsidies to those living in certain areas but not in others make one a good social democrat?  I'd oppose such subsidies for the same reason I am opposed to the US flood insurance program that subsidizes people who choose to live along the coast in hurricane zones.

Under the circumstances tho, I could see offering the people who live north of 55N assistance in relocating to a less remote location.


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: RogueBeaver on June 10, 2012, 08:23:02 PM
Lawrence MacAulay is NOT retiring, contra yesterday's rumours.

https://twitter.com/ryhicks/status/211880710091448320


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: Hatman 🍁 on June 11, 2012, 07:26:28 AM
I knew everything cost more in Nunavut, but some of these prices are really shocking: http://www.huffingtonpost.ca/2012/06/08/nunavut-food-hunger-protest_n_1581485.html#s=more231471

$82 for a 12 pack of Ginger Ale (355mL cans)!

It may sound heartless, but no one is forcing them to live there.

If that's your response to income inequality, hunger and high food prices in the northern territories, then you wouldn't make a good social democrat. But I'm sure you already knew that. :)

How does providing subsidies to those living in certain areas but not in others make one a good social democrat?  I'd oppose such subsidies for the same reason I am opposed to the US flood insurance program that subsidizes people who choose to live along the coast in hurricane zones.

Under the circumstances tho, I could see offering the people who live north of 55N assistance in relocating to a less remote location.

I see you have no concept of emotional attachment to where one lives, and how much more important it is for aboriginals such as the Inuit. Not to mention the complete culture shock of having to move from their traditional territory down south. That leads to huge social problems for them, worse than the problems of living up north.


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: tpfkaw on June 11, 2012, 08:34:10 AM
I knew everything cost more in Nunavut, but some of these prices are really shocking: http://www.huffingtonpost.ca/2012/06/08/nunavut-food-hunger-protest_n_1581485.html#s=more231471

$82 for a 12 pack of Ginger Ale (355mL cans)!

It may sound heartless, but no one is forcing them to live there.

If that's your response to income inequality, hunger and high food prices in the northern territories, then you wouldn't make a good social democrat. But I'm sure you already knew that. :)

How does providing subsidies to those living in certain areas but not in others make one a good social democrat?  I'd oppose such subsidies for the same reason I am opposed to the US flood insurance program that subsidizes people who choose to live along the coast in hurricane zones.

Under the circumstances tho, I could see offering the people who live north of 55N assistance in relocating to a less remote location.

I see you have no concept of emotional attachment to where one lives, and how much more important it is for aboriginals such as the Inuit. Not to mention the complete culture shock of having to move from their traditional territory down south. That leads to huge social problems for them, worse than the problems of living up north.

If they want to purchase a 12-pack of ginger ale, then odds are they aren't really living authentically one with the nature using every part of the animal etc.


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: Hatman 🍁 on June 11, 2012, 08:51:43 AM
I knew everything cost more in Nunavut, but some of these prices are really shocking: http://www.huffingtonpost.ca/2012/06/08/nunavut-food-hunger-protest_n_1581485.html#s=more231471

$82 for a 12 pack of Ginger Ale (355mL cans)!

It may sound heartless, but no one is forcing them to live there.

If that's your response to income inequality, hunger and high food prices in the northern territories, then you wouldn't make a good social democrat. But I'm sure you already knew that. :)

How does providing subsidies to those living in certain areas but not in others make one a good social democrat?  I'd oppose such subsidies for the same reason I am opposed to the US flood insurance program that subsidizes people who choose to live along the coast in hurricane zones.

Under the circumstances tho, I could see offering the people who live north of 55N assistance in relocating to a less remote location.

I see you have no concept of emotional attachment to where one lives, and how much more important it is for aboriginals such as the Inuit. Not to mention the complete culture shock of having to move from their traditional territory down south. That leads to huge social problems for them, worse than the problems of living up north.

If they want to purchase a 12-pack of ginger ale, then odds are they aren't really living authentically one with the nature using every part of the animal etc.

If you read the article, you would see that traditional hunting costs just as much as actual groceries, so that's a moot point.


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: tpfkaw on June 11, 2012, 08:54:55 AM
I knew everything cost more in Nunavut, but some of these prices are really shocking: http://www.huffingtonpost.ca/2012/06/08/nunavut-food-hunger-protest_n_1581485.html#s=more231471

$82 for a 12 pack of Ginger Ale (355mL cans)!

It may sound heartless, but no one is forcing them to live there.

If that's your response to income inequality, hunger and high food prices in the northern territories, then you wouldn't make a good social democrat. But I'm sure you already knew that. :)

How does providing subsidies to those living in certain areas but not in others make one a good social democrat?  I'd oppose such subsidies for the same reason I am opposed to the US flood insurance program that subsidizes people who choose to live along the coast in hurricane zones.

Under the circumstances tho, I could see offering the people who live north of 55N assistance in relocating to a less remote location.

I see you have no concept of emotional attachment to where one lives, and how much more important it is for aboriginals such as the Inuit. Not to mention the complete culture shock of having to move from their traditional territory down south. That leads to huge social problems for them, worse than the problems of living up north.

If they want to purchase a 12-pack of ginger ale, then odds are they aren't really living authentically one with the nature using every part of the animal etc.

If you read the article, you would see that traditional hunting costs just as much as actual groceries, so that's a moot point.

"Nunavut's larder of "country food" — caribou, seals, fish and other animals — is there for the taking, but only if people can afford the snowmobiles, gas, rifles, ammunition and gear needed to travel safely. Elliott estimates hunting costs about $150 a day."

That doesn't sound like "traditional hunting" to me.


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: Hatman 🍁 on June 11, 2012, 08:56:41 AM
I knew everything cost more in Nunavut, but some of these prices are really shocking: http://www.huffingtonpost.ca/2012/06/08/nunavut-food-hunger-protest_n_1581485.html#s=more231471

$82 for a 12 pack of Ginger Ale (355mL cans)!

It may sound heartless, but no one is forcing them to live there.

If that's your response to income inequality, hunger and high food prices in the northern territories, then you wouldn't make a good social democrat. But I'm sure you already knew that. :)

How does providing subsidies to those living in certain areas but not in others make one a good social democrat?  I'd oppose such subsidies for the same reason I am opposed to the US flood insurance program that subsidizes people who choose to live along the coast in hurricane zones.

Under the circumstances tho, I could see offering the people who live north of 55N assistance in relocating to a less remote location.

I see you have no concept of emotional attachment to where one lives, and how much more important it is for aboriginals such as the Inuit. Not to mention the complete culture shock of having to move from their traditional territory down south. That leads to huge social problems for them, worse than the problems of living up north.

If they want to purchase a 12-pack of ginger ale, then odds are they aren't really living authentically one with the nature using every part of the animal etc.

If you read the article, you would see that traditional hunting costs just as much as actual groceries, so that's a moot point.

"Nunavut's larder of "country food" — caribou, seals, fish and other animals — is there for the taking, but only if people can afford the snowmobiles, gas, rifles, ammunition and gear needed to travel safely. Elliott estimates hunting costs about $150 a day."

That doesn't sound like "traditional hunting" to me.

OK, do you suggest that feeding and using a dog team would be any cheaper/less time consuming?


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: tpfkaw on June 11, 2012, 08:59:30 AM
I knew everything cost more in Nunavut, but some of these prices are really shocking: http://www.huffingtonpost.ca/2012/06/08/nunavut-food-hunger-protest_n_1581485.html#s=more231471

$82 for a 12 pack of Ginger Ale (355mL cans)!

It may sound heartless, but no one is forcing them to live there.

If that's your response to income inequality, hunger and high food prices in the northern territories, then you wouldn't make a good social democrat. But I'm sure you already knew that. :)

How does providing subsidies to those living in certain areas but not in others make one a good social democrat?  I'd oppose such subsidies for the same reason I am opposed to the US flood insurance program that subsidizes people who choose to live along the coast in hurricane zones.

Under the circumstances tho, I could see offering the people who live north of 55N assistance in relocating to a less remote location.

I see you have no concept of emotional attachment to where one lives, and how much more important it is for aboriginals such as the Inuit. Not to mention the complete culture shock of having to move from their traditional territory down south. That leads to huge social problems for them, worse than the problems of living up north.

If they want to purchase a 12-pack of ginger ale, then odds are they aren't really living authentically one with the nature using every part of the animal etc.

If you read the article, you would see that traditional hunting costs just as much as actual groceries, so that's a moot point.

"Nunavut's larder of "country food" — caribou, seals, fish and other animals — is there for the taking, but only if people can afford the snowmobiles, gas, rifles, ammunition and gear needed to travel safely. Elliott estimates hunting costs about $150 a day."

That doesn't sound like "traditional hunting" to me.

OK, do you suggest that feeding and using a dog team would be any cheaper/less time consuming?

That's why they have their "emotional attachment to the land," is it not?  Also, they were able to afford it for a few thousand years.


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: Hatman 🍁 on June 11, 2012, 09:09:05 AM
I knew everything cost more in Nunavut, but some of these prices are really shocking: http://www.huffingtonpost.ca/2012/06/08/nunavut-food-hunger-protest_n_1581485.html#s=more231471

$82 for a 12 pack of Ginger Ale (355mL cans)!

It may sound heartless, but no one is forcing them to live there.

If that's your response to income inequality, hunger and high food prices in the northern territories, then you wouldn't make a good social democrat. But I'm sure you already knew that. :)

How does providing subsidies to those living in certain areas but not in others make one a good social democrat?  I'd oppose such subsidies for the same reason I am opposed to the US flood insurance program that subsidizes people who choose to live along the coast in hurricane zones.

Under the circumstances tho, I could see offering the people who live north of 55N assistance in relocating to a less remote location.

I see you have no concept of emotional attachment to where one lives, and how much more important it is for aboriginals such as the Inuit. Not to mention the complete culture shock of having to move from their traditional territory down south. That leads to huge social problems for them, worse than the problems of living up north.

If they want to purchase a 12-pack of ginger ale, then odds are they aren't really living authentically one with the nature using every part of the animal etc.

If you read the article, you would see that traditional hunting costs just as much as actual groceries, so that's a moot point.

"Nunavut's larder of "country food" — caribou, seals, fish and other animals — is there for the taking, but only if people can afford the snowmobiles, gas, rifles, ammunition and gear needed to travel safely. Elliott estimates hunting costs about $150 a day."

That doesn't sound like "traditional hunting" to me.

OK, do you suggest that feeding and using a dog team would be any cheaper/less time consuming?

That's why they have their "emotional attachment to the land," is it not?  Also, they were able to afford it for a few thousand years.

"Afford?" I don't know if that's an appropriate word, considering their society wasn't exactly capitalist. I would hope that you can see why going back to a pre-colonization traditional way of life isn't exactly an option.


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: tpfkaw on June 11, 2012, 09:15:43 AM
I knew everything cost more in Nunavut, but some of these prices are really shocking: http://www.huffingtonpost.ca/2012/06/08/nunavut-food-hunger-protest_n_1581485.html#s=more231471

$82 for a 12 pack of Ginger Ale (355mL cans)!

It may sound heartless, but no one is forcing them to live there.

If that's your response to income inequality, hunger and high food prices in the northern territories, then you wouldn't make a good social democrat. But I'm sure you already knew that. :)

How does providing subsidies to those living in certain areas but not in others make one a good social democrat?  I'd oppose such subsidies for the same reason I am opposed to the US flood insurance program that subsidizes people who choose to live along the coast in hurricane zones.

Under the circumstances tho, I could see offering the people who live north of 55N assistance in relocating to a less remote location.

I see you have no concept of emotional attachment to where one lives, and how much more important it is for aboriginals such as the Inuit. Not to mention the complete culture shock of having to move from their traditional territory down south. That leads to huge social problems for them, worse than the problems of living up north.

If they want to purchase a 12-pack of ginger ale, then odds are they aren't really living authentically one with the nature using every part of the animal etc.

If you read the article, you would see that traditional hunting costs just as much as actual groceries, so that's a moot point.

"Nunavut's larder of "country food" — caribou, seals, fish and other animals — is there for the taking, but only if people can afford the snowmobiles, gas, rifles, ammunition and gear needed to travel safely. Elliott estimates hunting costs about $150 a day."

That doesn't sound like "traditional hunting" to me.

OK, do you suggest that feeding and using a dog team would be any cheaper/less time consuming?

That's why they have their "emotional attachment to the land," is it not?  Also, they were able to afford it for a few thousand years.

"Afford?" I don't know if that's an appropriate word, considering their society wasn't exactly capitalist. I would hope that you can see why going back to a pre-colonization traditional way of life isn't exactly an option.

They can't have their cake and eat it too and expect other people to pay for the cake as well.  That's beyond unreasonable.


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: Hatman 🍁 on June 11, 2012, 09:23:26 AM
I knew everything cost more in Nunavut, but some of these prices are really shocking: http://www.huffingtonpost.ca/2012/06/08/nunavut-food-hunger-protest_n_1581485.html#s=more231471

$82 for a 12 pack of Ginger Ale (355mL cans)!

It may sound heartless, but no one is forcing them to live there.

If that's your response to income inequality, hunger and high food prices in the northern territories, then you wouldn't make a good social democrat. But I'm sure you already knew that. :)

How does providing subsidies to those living in certain areas but not in others make one a good social democrat?  I'd oppose such subsidies for the same reason I am opposed to the US flood insurance program that subsidizes people who choose to live along the coast in hurricane zones.

Under the circumstances tho, I could see offering the people who live north of 55N assistance in relocating to a less remote location.

I see you have no concept of emotional attachment to where one lives, and how much more important it is for aboriginals such as the Inuit. Not to mention the complete culture shock of having to move from their traditional territory down south. That leads to huge social problems for them, worse than the problems of living up north.

If they want to purchase a 12-pack of ginger ale, then odds are they aren't really living authentically one with the nature using every part of the animal etc.

If you read the article, you would see that traditional hunting costs just as much as actual groceries, so that's a moot point.

"Nunavut's larder of "country food" — caribou, seals, fish and other animals — is there for the taking, but only if people can afford the snowmobiles, gas, rifles, ammunition and gear needed to travel safely. Elliott estimates hunting costs about $150 a day."

That doesn't sound like "traditional hunting" to me.

OK, do you suggest that feeding and using a dog team would be any cheaper/less time consuming?

That's why they have their "emotional attachment to the land," is it not?  Also, they were able to afford it for a few thousand years.

"Afford?" I don't know if that's an appropriate word, considering their society wasn't exactly capitalist. I would hope that you can see why going back to a pre-colonization traditional way of life isn't exactly an option.

They can't have their cake and eat it too and expect other people to pay for the cake as well.  That's beyond unreasonable.

"expecting other people to pay" may not even have to be an option. But even if it is an option, there is definitely a strategic value for the country to have people living in northern communities, especially as the north opens up due to climate change. Many Inuit are being employed as Arctic rangers, in defence of Arctic sovereignty. "Arctic sovereignty" is actually a huge part of Stephen Harper's agenda.


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: Хahar 🤔 on June 11, 2012, 09:36:07 PM
Earl, stop.


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: RogueBeaver on June 11, 2012, 09:39:25 PM
All omnibus these next 10 days as the session wraps up, since Scheer ruled against May this morning.


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: RogueBeaver on June 11, 2012, 09:57:05 PM
Ivison says the opposition is in part to blame for the Omnibust.

http://fullcomment.nationalpost.com/2012/06/11/john-ivison-the-opposition-shares-the-blame-for-creating-omnibus-bill-mess/


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: MaxQue on June 11, 2012, 10:50:04 PM
Ivison says the opposition is in part to blame for the Omnibust.

http://fullcomment.nationalpost.com/2012/06/11/john-ivison-the-opposition-shares-the-blame-for-creating-omnibus-bill-mess/

So, he is blaming the Opposition for opposing?


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: RogueBeaver on June 11, 2012, 10:53:52 PM
Ivison says the opposition is in part to blame for the Omnibust.

http://fullcomment.nationalpost.com/2012/06/11/john-ivison-the-opposition-shares-the-blame-for-creating-omnibus-bill-mess/

So, he is blaming the Opposition for opposing?

He's blaming them for bad strategy- saying they could have forced rule changes during the Harper minorities. As if Dion or Iggy were capable of outfoxing Harper in that sort of situation.


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: RogueBeaver on June 12, 2012, 05:53:30 PM
If he keeps himself out of trouble for a little longer, I certainly wouldn't mind Bernier swapping places with Paradis.

http://fullcomment.nationalpost.com/2012/06/12/john-ivison-berniers-maverick-call-for-bilingualism-reignites-conservative-push-in-quebec/


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: Hatman 🍁 on June 13, 2012, 09:00:58 PM
lol budget vote: http://www.cbc.ca/video/#/News/Politics/1244504890/ID=2177072181


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: Marokai Backbeat on June 13, 2012, 09:05:42 PM
Considering everything goin' on in that budget, just calling it a "budget" is almost completely disingenuous.


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: Hatman 🍁 on June 13, 2012, 09:10:55 PM
There will be 800+ amendments; the MPs will be pulling an all nighter.


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: Hatman 🍁 on June 14, 2012, 07:23:24 AM
And they're still going...


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: Hatman 🍁 on June 14, 2012, 04:49:59 PM


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: RogueBeaver on June 15, 2012, 12:11:25 PM
Someone will blink.

http://www.theglobeandmail.com/news/politics/mcguinty-wont-rule-anything-out-in-ontario-budget-standoff/article4266004/


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: Holmes on June 15, 2012, 12:19:00 PM
God. If I had a choice between listening to Dad's self-righteous scolding or putting a bullet in my mouth...

A snap election would be horrible.


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: RogueBeaver on June 15, 2012, 12:22:07 PM
Yes... because with Dad's political luck and his opponents' penchant for self-destruction he could well get a real majority. *Puke*


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: Holmes on June 15, 2012, 12:53:50 PM
Well, no. I don't think that would happen. I'm thinking more along the lines of the type of candidates a snap election would produce. Recruitment would be rushed, which could be a bad thing if another party won gouvernment.


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: RogueBeaver on June 15, 2012, 01:10:51 PM
Only been 8 months since the last election, so presumably most people would just renominate. At any rate Horwath went all soft at a presser this morning, so she'll cut a deal with Dad.


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: RogueBeaver on June 15, 2012, 01:59:38 PM
All 3 parties should look at this, particularly our Grit friends.

http://www.punditsguide.ca/2012/06/explaining-the-2011-federal-election-i-who-switched-to-whom-and-when/


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: RogueBeaver on June 15, 2012, 02:43:04 PM
How long before the Supremes look at this?

http://www.theglobeandmail.com/news/british-columbia/bc-supreme-court-strikes-down-ban-on-physician-assisted-suicide/article4267631/


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: RogueBeaver on June 15, 2012, 09:48:23 PM
While I wouldn't rule out entirely the idea of Charest pulling yet another rabbit out of his hat, largely agreed with Hebert.

http://www.thestar.com/news/canada/politics/article/1212097--hebert-jean-charest-s-hand-has-once-again-been-weakened


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: RogueBeaver on June 16, 2012, 01:24:12 PM
We know that the BC Grits are ficked with a rusty knife, new polling just confirms it.

http://threehundredeight.blogspot.ca/2012/06/bc-new-democrats-hover-near-50.html#comment-form


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: Foucaulf on June 16, 2012, 04:19:37 PM
Only the Ipsos poll is publicly available, and that's even more terrifying for the Liberals. the NDP leads in every single demographic - the closest the Liberals get is being eight points behind in the "75k+" group.

The only question now is if the Liberals survive the election. They should, since the Conservatives are now stagnating. Cummins has no charisma and not even a riding on which he can ride into the legislature. Kevin Falcon will probably win the leadership election after the Liberals lose in 2013, after which he'll target Conservative voters by offering to scrap the carbon tax and the like.


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: RogueBeaver on June 16, 2012, 04:22:32 PM
Hopefully Falcon does win that race. While I'm sympathetic to the BCCP, Dix is way too left-wing (IMO) for the luxury of an extended '90s-style duel for centre-right supremacy.


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: Holmes on June 16, 2012, 04:35:22 PM
Does this link (http://www.forumresearch.com/forms/News%20Archives/News%20Releases/44749_British_Columbia_Issues_%28Forum_Research%29_%2820120612%29.pdf) to the BC poll work for you guys?

Here's another national Forum poll (http://www.forumresearch.com/forms/News%20Archives/News%20Releases/00294_Canada-wide_-_Federal_Political_Issues_%28Forum_Research%29.pdf) with 37 NDP/30 CPC/22 LPC. With Trudeau, it's 32 NDP/28 CPC/28 LPC.


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: RogueBeaver on June 16, 2012, 04:40:00 PM
Thanks for the poll, I only linked 308 because they didn't provide a direct one.

As for the national stuff, :D. It makes sense because Trudeau has demographic appeal to the soft left, fellow yuppies, and cultural minorities, so he eats from both parties. Especially in Ontario and BC.


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: Holmes on June 16, 2012, 04:46:07 PM
He literally suffers from foot-in-mouth syndrome though. Calling Peter Kent of piece of sh**t, saying Quebec should separate if Harper changes how he sees Canada... heh.


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: Foucaulf on June 16, 2012, 05:00:59 PM
Thank you so much for the Forum poll! This is also a "BC issues" poll, which makes for lovely reading.

Not much to say about the national poll, except that seeing the NDP so far ahead is making me a bit light-headed. Also, Trudeau has to at least run in order to keep the Liberals alive. The Liberal "revival strategy" is all pinned on getting the citizenry more interested in the campaign, and Trudeau is the only one recognized by that citizenry. Maybe other Liberals should start picking fights with Conservative senators to raise their profile...


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: RogueBeaver on June 16, 2012, 05:25:57 PM
I crossposted that poll in the Liberal thread so we don't derail.

Shall we talk sleaze?


http://www.windsorstar.com/news/Quebec%2Blieutenant%2Bgovernor%2Bclaims%2Broyal%2Bprivilege/6792628/story.html

http://www.ottawacitizen.com/news/Employees%2Blinked%2Bcousin%2Bcompany%2Beach%2Bgave%2BMastro%2Bcampaign/6790645/story.html


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: Hatman 🍁 on June 16, 2012, 09:29:04 PM
I was just going to post the FR poll, but you guys beat me to it. Ugh, I didn't realize that Trudeau would bump the Liberals numbers that much. Still though, 37-30 is a nice lead :)


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: Hatman 🍁 on June 16, 2012, 09:37:34 PM
Some notes about the FR poll:

The NDP is ahead in every age group except 65+
The NDP even leads among men (36-32)
The NDP is tied with the Tories in Ontario and are ahead in the Prairies!
The NDP is ahead in every income category, including nearly half of voters earning less than $20,000 (voting the way they should ;) )

With Trudeau:
The NDP drops to 3rd in Ontario
Liberals gain 12% in Quebec, mostly to the expense of the NDP

Harper's approval is 31-61
Mulcair's approval is 39-31
Rae is 40-32


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: RogueBeaver on June 16, 2012, 09:40:12 PM
I was just going to post the FR poll, but you guys beat me to it. Ugh, I didn't realize that Trudeau would bump the Liberals numbers that much. Still though, 37-30 is a nice lead :)

For now. :P  I do wonder what that alt-matchup looks like in seating terms.


Ugh, Toews is loathsome.

http://www.canada.com/travel/Listening%2Bequipment%2Bwill%2Brecord%2Bconversations%2BCanadian%2Bairports%2BCBSA/6794642/story.html


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: Hash on June 17, 2012, 08:51:30 AM
Sweet numbers overall, though at 30%, the Tories are probably hitting some floor.


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: RogueBeaver on June 17, 2012, 09:06:18 AM
Sweet numbers overall, though at 30%, the Tories are probably hitting some floor.

Yep. But I'm not worried, we're 3.5 years out.


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: RogueBeaver on June 17, 2012, 09:42:39 PM
So who blinks?

http://www.lfpress.com/comment/columnists/christina_blizzard/2012/06/15/19883946.html


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: Hatman 🍁 on June 17, 2012, 10:45:00 PM
Ugh, Christina Blizzard is a huge HP


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: MaxQue on June 17, 2012, 10:45:37 PM
So who blinks?

http://www.lfpress.com/comment/columnists/christina_blizzard/2012/06/15/19883946.html

That article is so biased than I'm not even thinking about it.


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: You kip if you want to... on June 18, 2012, 02:52:39 PM
Question from an international: what's the deal with Bob Rae being so hated in Ontario?


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: RogueBeaver on June 18, 2012, 02:57:46 PM
Question from an international: what's the deal with Bob Rae being so hated in Ontario?

Basically getting squeezed between the Harrisite Tories and unions after 1991. These links have the gory details.

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Rae_Days

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Bob_Rae#Premier


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: RogueBeaver on June 18, 2012, 03:17:53 PM
IMO McGuinty probably accepts. Unless he's so hell-bent on a snap election that he pulls the plug anyways, which I doubt.

http://www.thestar.com/news/canada/politics/article/1212922--ontario-budge-2012-andrea-horwath-offers-olive-branch-to-dalton-mcguinty-to-avert-snap-election

BTW, there was also a good article this weekend about how McGuinty lost control because he isn't as iron-fisted as Harper when it comes to shutting down unpleasant committee work and other things.


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: Hatman 🍁 on June 18, 2012, 05:17:24 PM
Harper had the experience of being in opposition during a minority government, so he knew what he had to do. McGuinty hasn't had that luxury.


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: RogueBeaver on June 18, 2012, 05:21:12 PM
On second thought... maybe there will be an election after all.

http://m.cp24.com/news/20120618/120618_Budget_Deal.html


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: Hatman 🍁 on June 18, 2012, 09:45:45 PM
()


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: MaxQue on June 18, 2012, 11:18:45 PM
In Quebec, a Léger poll have Quebec Liberals leading by 1% provincially and NDP at 52%, federally.


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: Hatman 🍁 on June 19, 2012, 12:34:15 AM
Great find that Teddy posted on Facebook: http://c-spanvideo.org/program/Parli


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: RogueBeaver on June 19, 2012, 09:23:13 PM
Major Cabinet shuffle incoming this fall. Too bad Oda and MacKay couldn't get dumped entirely, but nice to see some of the stars get in. I really do hope Bernier comes back in a major role before the next election. We need him.

http://www.canada.com/news/Tandt%2BHarper%2Bmulls%2Bcabinet%2Bshuffle%2Bgetting/6807605/story.html



Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: MaxQue on June 19, 2012, 11:40:08 PM
You want the "Sarah Palin of Quebec", as someone I can't remember called him?


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: Hash on June 20, 2012, 05:28:50 AM
You want the "Sarah Palin of Quebec", as someone I can't remember called him?

Compared to the other 'talents' of the Conservative Party, Bernier isn't the only moron in the party.


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: RogueBeaver on June 25, 2012, 10:34:37 PM
NDP reviewing their Senate policy?

http://fullcomment.nationalpost.com/2012/06/25/john-ivison-ndp-singing-red-chamber-blues/

DOD prepares for a potential MacKay ouster.

http://thechronicleherald.ca/canada/110868-defence-dept-braces-for-mackays-ouster-other-upheaval



Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: Vote UKIP! on June 26, 2012, 10:22:39 AM
Excuse me again for interrupting, but isn't McKay of the old Progressive Conservative guard? It seems that the Reformers still control the Conservative Party.


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: RogueBeaver on June 26, 2012, 10:26:41 AM
Excuse me again for interrupting, but isn't McKay of the old Progressive Conservative guard? It seems that the Reformers still control the Conservative Party.

The Alliance wing has always controlled the party. What Harper's done is bleed MacKay out politically- letting him twist in the wind through all these scandals without defending him.


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: Vote UKIP! on June 26, 2012, 10:54:41 AM
Excuse me again for interrupting, but isn't McKay of the old Progressive Conservative guard? It seems that the Reformers still control the Conservative Party.

The Alliance wing has always controlled the party. What Harper's done is bleed MacKay out politically- letting him twist in the wind through all these scandals without defending him.

Do you consider yourself PC or Alliance?

Were I Canadian, I would likely be a Harperite. I don't know much about as PM, but he seems to be an honorable man


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: RogueBeaver on June 26, 2012, 03:56:16 PM
In other news, Brazeau has managed to a) set a truancy record in Senate attendance b) call Jen Ditchburn a biotch on Twitter for writing an article on his absenteeism. Ugh.

http://www.theglobeandmail.com/news/politics/despite-gig-for-life-37-year-old-tory-skips-25-of-senate-sittings/article4371734/?cmpid=rss1

http://www.huffingtonpost.ca/2012/06/26/senator-patrick-brazeau-h_n_1628551.html


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: RogueBeaver on June 26, 2012, 08:39:24 PM
I'm curious as to Hash's opinion on the ad.

http://www.winnipegfreepress.com/canada/ad-showing-pot-banging-pq-leader-marois-prompts-legal-threat-160407915.html


LOL.

http://www.thestar.com/news/canada/politics/article/1217014--robocalls-ndp-mp-pat-martin-to-spend-summer-fundraising-for-defamation-defence?bn=1


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: Hash on June 26, 2012, 08:55:51 PM
I'm curious as to Hash's opinion on the ad.

http://www.winnipegfreepress.com/canada/ad-showing-pot-banging-pq-leader-marois-prompts-legal-threat-160407915.html

Why me in particular?



Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: RogueBeaver on June 26, 2012, 08:59:00 PM
I'm curious as to Hash's opinion on the ad.

http://www.winnipegfreepress.com/canada/ad-showing-pot-banging-pq-leader-marois-prompts-legal-threat-160407915.html

Why me in particular?



Because you always have a bon mot for everyone. :P

My opinion is that she looks rather silly. Not quite Harper at the '05 Stampede or Martin toe-dipping but getting there.


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: MaxQue on June 26, 2012, 08:59:21 PM
I suppose I'm the one who wanted, as a Quebecer.

I think it will useless. People are already polarised on that issue and Marois position is well-known.
It will change nothing.


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: Hatman 🍁 on June 26, 2012, 09:59:13 PM
I think the best plan for the NDP re: the Senate is to hold a national referendum on it. If Canadians want the status quo, then we start appointing Senators. If not, than we have a mandate to open up constitutional talks.


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: Vosem on June 26, 2012, 10:03:33 PM
Were I Canadian, I would likely be a Harperite. I don't know much about as PM, but he seems to be an honorable man

No politician is honorable, MasterSanders, though I too would certainly vote Conservative in federal elections were I Canadian. Or, in fact, whichever party had a greater chance of defeating the NDP in my district -- there's nothing wrong with voting Liberal, and while the BQ is just as distasteful as the NDP, there aren't as many of them.

The Wildrose Alliance strikes me as a great party, though -- rather closer to my beliefs than the American Republicans, though it has its problems, too.


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: RogueBeaver on June 26, 2012, 10:14:58 PM
Hatman: Reopen the constitutional wars? Seriously?



Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: MaxQue on June 26, 2012, 10:26:57 PM
Hatman: Reopen the constitutional wars? Seriously?



Well, someone will have to open them someday. I don't think than a unelected upper house should still be there in 2200.


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: Hatman 🍁 on June 26, 2012, 11:32:18 PM
If the voters want the Senate abolished, than that is definitely a mandate to open constitutional talks, so yes. However, 50%+1 might not seem like enough, as it might need to pass in 7 provinces as well. (Possible though, as there are only 3 Maritime provinces- Nfld isn't as over represented as the Maritimes)


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: RogueBeaver on June 29, 2012, 05:54:01 PM
Hear hear.

http://www.thestar.com/news/canada/article/1219397--hebert-covering-cdnpoli-without-the-language-divide


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: Vote UKIP! on July 01, 2012, 02:13:31 PM
Happy Canada Day, guys, from America!


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: RogueBeaver on July 01, 2012, 02:29:29 PM
EKOS pegs the Tories slightly behind the Dippers.

http://www.ipolitics.ca/2012/07/01/harpers-conservatives-slide-behind-ndp-in-national-poll/


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: Smid on July 01, 2012, 08:58:33 PM
EKOS pegs the Tories slightly behind the Dippers.

http://www.ipolitics.ca/2012/07/01/harpers-conservatives-slide-behind-ndp-in-national-poll/

Plugged the numbers into my spreadsheet to estimate some seat counts, etc. Atlantic Canada seems a bit off - 7.7% of voters didn't register a response against any of the four parties listed, so that may have scrambled the numbers there a little. Obviously just estimates and so on, but seems a bit more reasonable than the poll released last week.

Overall
Tories      116 ( -48 )
Grits        49   ( +15 )
Dippers   124 ( +22 )
Bloc         15   ( +11 )
Greens    1     ( - )

Atlantic Canada
Tories      13 ( -1 )
Grits         4 ( -8 )
Dippers    15 ( +9 )
Greens     0

Quebec
Tories       4 ( -1 )
Grits         10 ( +3 )
Dippers    46 ( -13 )
Bloc          15 ( +11 )

Ontario
Tories       47 ( -26 )
Grits         29 ( +18 )
Dippers    30 ( +8 )

Central Prairies
Tories      15 ( -9 )
Grits         2 ( - )
Dippers    11 ( +9 )

Alberta
Tories      27 ( - )
Dippers    1 ( - )

British Columbia
Tories      10 ( -11 )
Grits         4 ( +2 )
Dippers    21 ( +9 )
Greens     1 ( - )


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: RogueBeaver on July 01, 2012, 09:09:55 PM
Roughly as expected. Now we await the Cabinet shuffle.


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: Phony Moderate on July 03, 2012, 01:33:59 AM
I would just like to comment that Trudeau looks a bit like an older Zac Efron imo....and we all know how important good looks are in politics nowadays....


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: MaxQue on July 03, 2012, 01:46:08 AM
I would just like to comment that Trudeau looks a bit like an older Zac Efron imo....and we all know how important good looks are in politics nowadays....

Justin or Pierre?


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: Phony Moderate on July 03, 2012, 02:13:22 AM
I would just like to comment that Trudeau looks a bit like an older Zac Efron imo....and we all know how important good looks are in politics nowadays....

Justin or Pierre?

The former.


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: BritishDixie on July 03, 2012, 03:55:33 AM
I know little about Canadian Politics. One question, is the Liberal Party socially and fiscally liberal, or is it one of those "liberal" parties which aren't really fiscally right wing, like they would have been at the start of the 20th century.


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: MaxQue on July 03, 2012, 05:29:27 AM
I know little about Canadian Politics. One question, is the Liberal Party socially and fiscally liberal, or is it one of those "liberal" parties which aren't really fiscally right wing, like they would have been at the start of the 20th century.

Depends of their leaders of their mood. Last year, they managed to attack the NDP from the left and the Conservatives from the right on economy in the same week.

On average, it's near the center, through.


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: Holmes on July 03, 2012, 06:26:51 AM
I know little about Canadian Politics. One question, is the Liberal Party socially and fiscally liberal, or is it one of those "liberal" parties which aren't really fiscally right wing, like they would have been at the start of the 20th century.

Depends of their leaders of their mood.

And also the mood of voters. And region.


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: Hatman 🍁 on July 03, 2012, 07:31:45 AM
The Liberals lack a coherent ideology. They are what you want them to be.

The party started as being pro-free trade, pro business etc, pro immigration, pro US then some wars came along, and they became pro-welfare state (one wonders if they would have gone that direction without pressure from the CCF/NDP). During the Trudeau years, the party was quite socially liberal, even to the left of the NDP, and were economically left of centre as well. By the free trade election of 1988, they had done a 180 on their platform of 100 years ago. Then came the recession of the early 1990s, and the party was forced to the right economically, and that's where they were the last time they were in power.


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: You kip if you want to... on July 03, 2012, 09:06:42 AM
The Liberals lack a coherent ideology. They are what you want them to be.

The party started as being pro-free trade, pro business etc, pro immigration, pro US then some wars came along, and they became pro-welfare state (one wonders if they would have gone that direction without pressure from the CCF/NDP). During the Trudeau years, the party was quite socially liberal, even to the left of the NDP, and were economically left of centre as well. By the free trade election of 1988, they had done a 180 on their platform of 100 years ago. Then came the recession of the early 1990s, and the party was forced to the right economically, and that's where they were the last time they were in power.

That's just what Liberal parties do...


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: RogueBeaver on July 03, 2012, 11:34:18 AM
Supremes will hear the Etobicoke Centre case in a week. If they order a by-election the Liberals get that seat back.

http://www.cbc.ca/news/politics/inside-politics-blog/2012/07/supreme-court-watch-mark-your-calendars-etobicoke-centre-denizens.html


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: RogueBeaver on July 03, 2012, 12:27:12 PM
Bev Oda is resigning from Parliament at month's end. Before anyone asks about the by-election, Durham is a rock-solid Tory seat. And good riddance to her.

 http://news.nationalpost.com/2012/07/03/minister-bev-oda-to-resign-from-post/


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: Filuwaúrdjan on July 03, 2012, 02:17:35 PM
Hey, the NDP won in that area in 1990... ;D


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: RogueBeaver on July 03, 2012, 02:35:16 PM
So this looks like confirmation that a shuffle is indeed pending. MacKay, Toews, Paradis and Fantino are all in varying degrees of trouble so let's see if Harper moves them. Chris Alexander is tipped by some Hillsters to take over Oda's ministry, unless he stays as MacKay's PS.


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: Foucaulf on July 03, 2012, 06:35:13 PM
Says quite a bit about Canadian politics that the scandal which broke Oda's back was her ordering a $16 glass of orange juice.

Fantino and Toews are probably the most likely to be kicked out, followed by MacKay and Paradis (only one of the four I think will stay). The thing with Chris Alexander is his perfect resume as Canada's ambassador to Afghanistan, coupled with general inoffensiveness. I keep thinking Clement will be moved around somewhere despite all insider talk to the contrary.


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: RogueBeaver on July 03, 2012, 06:46:16 PM
If anyone stays it'll be MacKay. He deserves a demotion rather than a lateral move IMO but Harper won't do it. Toews might get that judgeship he's wanted for years, LeBel replaces Paradis. Fantino was a complete dud and was put there because Harper wanted to further weaken MacKay. Why else resurrect a position last held by the dud of duds- Pierre Sevigny? :P

More analysis on Oda.

http://www.thestar.com/news/canada/politics/article/1221037--analysis-bev-oda-goes-away-quietly-true-to-form-in-harper-s-ottawa

http://fullcomment.nationalpost.com/2012/07/03/john-ivison-bev-odas-downfall-rooted-in-the-kind-of-entitlement-she-was-trying-to-get-rid-of/


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: MaxQue on July 03, 2012, 08:30:19 PM
The problem is than MacKay is the former and last PC leader, so firing him would send a signal which could be harmful to him.


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: RogueBeaver on July 03, 2012, 08:49:43 PM
The problem is than MacKay is the former and last PC leader, so firing him would send a signal which could be harmful to him.

MacKay has no influence in the party. Nor do any of the Reds. Harper doesn't want to deal with the media whining so he'll move MacKay laterally. He's not a bad minister but needs a domestic portfolio. Became a creature of his department rather than running it, even before the F-35 clusterfark.


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: Hatman 🍁 on July 03, 2012, 09:31:26 PM
Ooh, another by-election.

NDP never finished higher than third here until 2011. They finished 4th in 2008. Although, as Al pointed out the seat went NDP provincially in 1990. (well, both seats the federal riding presently covers, Durham East and Durham--York)

ETA: Durham East also went NDP in 1975.


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: MaxQue on July 03, 2012, 11:21:28 PM
The problem is than MacKay is the former and last PC leader, so firing him would send a signal which could be harmful to him.

MacKay has no influence in the party. Nor do any of the Reds.

Oh, I know that. I'm talking of the media which would say than Harper is trying to get rid of the PCers and than the new Conservative Party is Reform/Alliance in other clothes.


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: RogueBeaver on July 04, 2012, 04:29:48 AM
Somehow I'm not surprised.

http://www.theglobeandmail.com/news/politics/insider-prompting-led-oda-to-step-down-ahead-of-cabinet-shuffle-source/article4386157/


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: RogueBeaver on July 04, 2012, 04:57:29 AM
Bourque is reporting that Erin O'Toole will be the Tory nominee to replace Oda in Durham when the by-election is called. No link yet, on their front page.


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: MaxQue on July 04, 2012, 05:23:28 AM
Too bad than they didn't chose a true conservative, but a corporate sellout.


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: RogueBeaver on July 04, 2012, 05:31:06 AM
Heenan has also hosted PET and the Strangler, so it isn't completely blue. :P Besides he won't be replacing Oda as minister, just as the Member. Alexander probably gets Oda's job.


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: MaxQue on July 04, 2012, 05:41:46 AM
Heenan has also hosted PET and the Strangler, so it isn't completely blue.

Oh, I know that, hence the comment. Heehan Blaikie doesn't care about the party, as long it passes laws enlarging the powers of big business. It also hosted the "commissionner" Bastarache, which cared more about Jean Charest than about truth.

Not a fan of them.

They are simply neoliberal.


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: RogueBeaver on July 04, 2012, 06:09:06 AM
For once, I largely agree with Simpson.

http://www.theglobeandmail.com/commentary/time-to-shuffle-the-deck-but-harpers-short-on-aces/article4387111/

Facepalm.

http://www.cbc.ca/news/politics/story/2012/07/04/weston-naval-helicopter-delays.html


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: RogueBeaver on July 04, 2012, 04:28:01 PM
Headdesk doesn't begin to describe this. Replacing dead weight with dead weight and keeping useless portfolios lying around. :mad: :mad:

http://www.theglobeandmail.com/news/national/harper-makes-slight-cabinet-shuffle/article4390615/


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: Holmes on July 04, 2012, 04:29:09 PM
Your first error was believing Harper is capable of rational and sound decisions. You've much to learn.


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: RogueBeaver on July 04, 2012, 04:45:18 PM
Yeah he's a crap personnel manager. TBH I didn't expect anything huge in this shuffle, it goes against his MO, but replacing dead weight with dead weight... yeesh.


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: Hash on July 04, 2012, 05:02:59 PM
Wow, much ado for nothing. Still, I would have hoped somebody who seems to have at least half of his brain cells like Chris Alexander could have gotten the CIDA portfolio instead of that blowhard moron Fantino. What a douche.

This was another example of the Conservative Party's legendary competence and showcase of its talents! Stay tuned for more!


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: RogueBeaver on July 04, 2012, 05:27:57 PM
Fully agreed with you.

Ugh. Just ugh.

http://www.ottawacitizen.com/news/Mastro%2Blashes%2Bagainst%2BElections%2BCanada%2Bmedia%2Bover%2Bexpense%2Ballegations/6884206/story.html


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: Hatman 🍁 on July 04, 2012, 10:01:47 PM
lol the Tories are full of a bunch of terrible MPs. Of course, they keep getting re-elected. When the NDP has a bad MP, the voters shove them under the bus. One reason I think Ryan Cleary is toast.


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: RogueBeaver on July 04, 2012, 10:23:33 PM
The problem is that Harper doesn't like appointing new people. He'll shuffle existing ministers around but with the exceptions of Bernier and Chong all the attrition was through voluntary or involuntary retirement. I'm sure Cannon and Verner would still be in Cabinet had they won. Flaherty probably goes for one last term, Fantino will be 73 and might retire, Toews might get his judgeship.

IMO:

MacKay: Move laterally. He had become a creature of his department even pre-procurement FUBARing and like Bernier, too easily seduced by the shinies in anything remotely international. Maybe House Leader, he'd sure as hell be better than Van Loan.

Fantino: Backbench, abolish that useless post held by Sevigny (another star turned uber-dud).

Alexander: In Oda's job. Ideally in MOD but that would never happen.

Ablonczy: She's been with Harper forever and never promoted. Dunno why.

Ambrose/Finley/Leitch/Raitt: Earned Green Cards but no vacancies.

Rajotte: Too many Albertans, though ideally he'd replace Clement or Paradis.

Bernier: Out of the penalty box, somewhere domestic.


Dark horse: Ryan Leef, Yukon. Maybe a vacant PS post to start?

IMO Del Maestro and Poilievre are our Rat Pack... more like Brat Pack. :P




Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: BlueDog Bimble on July 05, 2012, 02:49:14 AM
The problem is that Harper doesn't like appointing new people. He'll shuffle existing ministers around but with the exceptions of Bernier and Chong all the attrition was through voluntary or involuntary retirement. I'm sure Cannon and Verner would still be in Cabinet had they won. Flaherty probably goes for one last term, Fantino will be 73 and might retire, Toews might get his judgeship.

IMO:

MacKay: Move laterally. He had become a creature of his department even pre-procurement FUBARing and like Bernier, too easily seduced by the shinies in anything remotely international. Maybe House Leader, he'd sure as hell be better than Van Loan.

Fantino: Backbench, abolish that useless post held by Sevigny (another star turned uber-dud).

Alexander: In Oda's job. Ideally in MOD but that would never happen.

Ablonczy: She's been with Harper forever and never promoted. Dunno why.

Ambrose/Finley/Leitch/Raitt: Earned Green Cards but no vacancies.

Rajotte: Too many Albertans, though ideally he'd replace Clement or Paradis.

Bernier: Out of the penalty box, somewhere domestic.


Dark horse: Ryan Leef, Yukon. Maybe a vacant PS post to start?

IMO Del Maestro and Poilievre are our Rat Pack... more like Brat Pack. :P




I like Clement.

I know little about Canadian Politics. One question, is the Liberal Party socially and fiscally liberal, or is it one of those "liberal" parties which aren't really fiscally right wing, like they would have been at the start of the 20th century.

In Alberta, the Party is more fiscally Liberal than nationally. Thats why I voted for the Albertan Liberals in the Province, and the Conservatives nationally.


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: MaxQue on July 05, 2012, 03:04:27 AM
Well, links between most provincial Liberal parties and the federal one were severed years ago, too.


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: BlueDog Bimble on July 05, 2012, 03:09:40 AM
Well, links between most provincial Liberal parties and the federal one were severed years ago, too.

I never actually knew that. Was that due to the NEP?


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: MaxQue on July 05, 2012, 04:23:32 AM
Well, links between most provincial Liberal parties and the federal one were severed years ago, too.

I never actually knew that. Was that due to the NEP?

Only the 4 Atlantic ones are still linked. As the Alberta breaked out in 1976, probably because NEP. Quebec was in 1964, probably due to the Quebec then-raising nationalism.


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: BlueDog Bimble on July 05, 2012, 04:34:13 AM
Well, links between most provincial Liberal parties and the federal one were severed years ago, too.

I never actually knew that. Was that due to the NEP?

Only the 4 Atlantic ones are still linked. As the Alberta breaked out in 1976, probably because NEP. Quebec was in 1964, probably due to the Quebec then-raising nationalism.

Interesting.


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: Hatman 🍁 on July 05, 2012, 09:35:47 AM
Im not too sure I understand. The Alberta Liberals are to the left of most provincial Liberal parties, and probably to the left of the national one as well. Why would you vote for them if you're a federal Tory? Especially when you have a Red Tory like Redford to vote for?


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: RogueBeaver on July 05, 2012, 09:54:05 AM
Alberta Grits had been mostly dead since the '20s, why would the NEP have anything to do with their links being severed?

CSD is right about the PLQ- before 1964 the provincial party was a division of the federal one. Hence the name "Federation Liberal du Quebec", or FLQ (another reason why the name was probably changed). Given what happened between the parties during WWII the only surprise was how long the divorce took.


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: BlueDog Bimble on July 05, 2012, 10:56:11 AM
Im not too sure I understand. The Alberta Liberals are to the left of most provincial Liberal parties, and probably to the left of the national one as well. Why would you vote for them if you're a federal Tory? Especially when you have a Red Tory like Redford to vote for?

I'm mainly talking about back in the early 2000's when they were more fiscally conservative. I voted for them because I thought the Tories had been in too long, and also I thought Ralph Klein was an idiot. I voted PC in 2008, but switched to the Wildrose Party, as I thought it was time for change in government, and the PC's hadn't balanced the budget. My voting record's kind of dodgy,

2001: Liberal
2004: Liberal
2008: PC
2012: Wildrose


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: Hatman 🍁 on July 05, 2012, 11:06:01 AM
oic. I thought you were stipulating that you voted Liberal this year. Indeed the Alberta Liberals used to be quite right wing, especially in the 1990s.


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: RogueBeaver on July 05, 2012, 02:41:33 PM
Harper says the big shuffle will come next summer along with prorogation.

http://www.winnipegfreepress.com/canada/stephen-harper-says-no-cabinet-shuffle-prorogation-until-mid-term-161459825.html


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: World politics is up Schmitt creek on July 05, 2012, 03:04:13 PM

Wow, it's almost like Stephen Harper doesn't enjoy having to work with a Parliament or something! Either that or, does prorogation work differently, politically speaking, with a majority government?


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: Хahar 🤔 on July 05, 2012, 03:05:09 PM
Of course, the Saskatchewan Liberal Party has been taken over by libertarians now. Lot of weird things go on in minor provincial parties.


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: MaxQue on July 05, 2012, 03:26:58 PM

Wow, it's almost like Stephen Harper doesn't enjoy having to work with a Parliament or something! Either that or, does prorogation work differently, politically speaking, with a majority government?

Well, prorogation happens a couple times during Parliament. It allows to do a new Throne Speech and allows parties to switch members around committees, change the committees chairs...


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: RogueBeaver on July 05, 2012, 03:35:26 PM
Yep. This one sounds like it'll be during the summer, plus it makes a lot of sense. Second half of the Parliament and a newish Cabinet.


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: World politics is up Schmitt creek on July 05, 2012, 03:43:26 PM
Oh, okay. So when Harper prorogued Parliament before I think it was the 2008 election, that was controversial because of the specifics of that circumstance? Forgive me; I didn't really start following Canadian politics until sometime in 2010.


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: RogueBeaver on July 05, 2012, 03:53:11 PM
Oh, okay. So when Harper prorogued Parliament before I think it was the 2008 election, that was controversial because of the specifics of that circumstance? Forgive me; I didn't really start following Canadian politics until sometime in 2010.

There were two: one was in December 2008 during the coalition crisis. The other was December 2009 to March 2010, holidays and Olympics.


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: MaxQue on July 05, 2012, 04:27:43 PM
Oh, okay. So when Harper prorogued Parliament before I think it was the 2008 election, that was controversial because of the specifics of that circumstance? Forgive me; I didn't really start following Canadian politics until sometime in 2010.

There were two: one was in December 2008 during the coalition crisis. The other was December 2009 to March 2010, holidays and Olympics.

Those were controversial, because the first one was done to make the coalition deal crash and the second was to mute opposition during early 2010.
Now, it is not controversial, as the Parliament doesn't sit usually in summer either way.


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: Holmes on July 06, 2012, 06:19:16 AM
Newfoundland federal, Environics (http://www.environics.ca/uploads/File/Environics-NL-Federal-and-Provincial-Vote-July-4-12-Final.pdf)

NDP 49%
LPC 34%
CPC 17%

Provincial

NDP 38%
PC 35%
Libs 26%

:)

The only thing is that the NDP have huge numbers in northeast Avalon and are pretty much tied in the rest of the province - which is still an improvement, I believe, and has room to grow.


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: BlueDog Bumble on July 06, 2012, 06:31:47 AM

NDP 49%
LPC 34%
CPC 17%

Provincial

NDP 38%
PC 35%
Libs 26%

:)

The only thing is that the NDP have huge numbers in northeast Avalon and are pretty much tied in the rest of the province - which is still an improvement, I believe, and has room to grow.

Why are the Tories so unpopular at a federal level in Newfoundland. I don't get it?


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: Holmes on July 06, 2012, 06:35:04 AM
Well, ok, even if we look passed all the blunders the government has made, Newfoundland's main source of revenue is fishing, which is mostly seasonal work. Cuts to employment insurance is not popular there. And pensions too, lots of olds in the Atlantic.


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: BlueDog Bumble on July 06, 2012, 06:45:37 AM
Well, ok, even if we look passed all the blunders the government has made, Newfoundland's main source of revenue is fishing, which is mostly seasonal work. Cuts to employment insurance is not popular there. And pensions too, lots of olds in the Atlantic.

I get it (although I don't really understand the Atlantic Provinces, being a parochial westerner)


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: You kip if you want to... on July 06, 2012, 10:33:09 AM
Newfoundland federal, Environics (http://www.environics.ca/uploads/File/Environics-NL-Federal-and-Provincial-Vote-July-4-12-Final.pdf)

Provincial

NDP 38%
PC 35%
Libs 26%

:)


Didn't the Tories win a landslide here, late last year!?


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: RogueBeaver on July 06, 2012, 10:43:38 AM
Yep. Dunderdale hasn't made national news, so I assume she's doing an OK job. Hard to follow a living legend like Danny Williams but she's making the best of it.



Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: Holmes on July 06, 2012, 11:20:29 AM
It just might be people voting against the provincial government just for the fact that they have a majority (who would probably come back to the PC's in a scandal-free, uneventful election), plus some support spilling in from those supporting the federal NDP.


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: RogueBeaver on July 07, 2012, 08:24:18 PM
ROFL.

http://www.edmontonjournal.com/opinion/Redford%2Bsights%2Bchair/6898609/story.html


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: Hatman 🍁 on July 07, 2012, 08:38:53 PM
In this political climate, a Red Tory would win in a massive landslide.


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: RogueBeaver on July 07, 2012, 08:52:13 PM
In this political climate, a Red Tory would win in a massive landslide.

Maybe, but the leadership's another matter. Harper's probable successor as party leader is Albertan, but the name's Jason Kenney. Not Alison Redford.


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: Hatman 🍁 on July 07, 2012, 09:00:49 PM
In this political climate, a Red Tory would win in a massive landslide.

Maybe, but the leadership's another matter. Harper's probable successor as party leader is Albertan, but the name's Jason Kenney. Not Alison Redford.

Jason Kenney is a very smart man, but I don't think he's that electable. Canadians probably wont tolerate another Albertan as PM, but they might make an exception for Redford. But yeah, she probably wouldnt become leader. It will probably be a "blue" as you say.


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: RogueBeaver on July 09, 2012, 10:38:43 AM
Toews might get his judgeship.

http://www.winnipegfreepress.com/local/a-judgeship-for-toews-161757585.html


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: MaxQue on July 09, 2012, 04:00:05 PM
Hopefully that neopotism brings Conservative popularity even lower.


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: RogueBeaver on July 17, 2012, 10:11:40 AM
Shooting spree in Scarborough, 2 dead and 22 injured.

http://www.cbc.ca/news/canada/toronto/story/2012/07/16/toronto-scarborough-shooting.html


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: Hash on July 17, 2012, 04:10:26 PM
Hopefully that neopotism brings Conservative popularity even lower.

Purgatory support is nearing 30% in the worst of polls for them, so they're certainly hitting their floor at this point.


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: RogueBeaver on July 17, 2012, 04:13:36 PM
Hopefully that neopotism brings Conservative popularity even lower.

Purgatory support is nearing 30% in the worst of polls for them, so they're certainly hitting their floor at this point.

Yep. We have the lowest ceiling but the highest floor.


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: RogueBeaver on July 18, 2012, 02:02:19 PM
Shawn Atleo cruises to a second term as AFN chief.

http://www.theglobeandmail.com/news/politics/atleos-near-certain-win-vindicates-his-policy-of-harper-co-operation/article4425101/


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: Holmes on July 18, 2012, 05:38:07 PM
May is being pathetically transparent, if her actions during her time as MP didn't make it clear enough. This is why I hate strategic voting because this is the next "logical" step. Someone please defeat her in 2015.

Maybe she should follow her own advice and be the only Green candidate during the next election, as the party is pathetic and has no chance anywhere. Then maybe more of her precious Liberals can be elected? Assuming the 2% of Green voters would even bother voting.

http://www.theglobeandmail.com/news/politics/ottawa-notebook/may-greens-and-ndp-should-stay-off-etobicoke-by-election-ballot/article4424700/

Maybe the Greens and Liberals should bow out of Durham and Calgary Center under this logic? But I doubt May has the balls to boss around her Liberal overlords.


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: RogueBeaver on July 18, 2012, 06:02:29 PM
Challenge gladly accepted.


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: RogueBeaver on July 19, 2012, 03:09:42 PM
Okaaay.

http://www.theglobeandmail.com/news/politics/raes-exit-honeymoon-boosts-liberals-in-quebec-in-latest-nanos-poll/article4427072/


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: Хahar 🤔 on July 19, 2012, 06:04:29 PM
The NDP should make a concerted effort to defeat Elizabeth May come next election. It's important.


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: Holmes on July 19, 2012, 07:17:20 PM
I just think it's sad how the Greens have such a poor leader that doesn't even believe in her own party and doesn't want Green voters in Etobicoke to have their first choice available. I wouldn't vote for her during the next Green convention if I had the choice. The Green Party under Elizabeth May has been all about her, ever since the beginning.


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: Hatman 🍁 on July 19, 2012, 09:23:49 PM
Guys, Im really starting to fear Trudeau. We're doing a survey at work, where we're asking Canadian's support for Liberal leader. Not one person told me someone other than Trudeau. Of course, the sample of who I did surveys with is small, but it's telling.


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: RogueBeaver on July 19, 2012, 09:44:20 PM
And he hasn't even announced yet! :P  



Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: Holmes on July 19, 2012, 09:47:50 PM
Of course regular Canadians don't know anyone else with prospects of running for the leadership, other than our lord and savior Justin Trudeau.


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: Hatman 🍁 on July 19, 2012, 09:51:52 PM
Of course regular Canadians don't know anyone else with prospects of running for the leadership, other than our lord and savior Justin Trudeau.

Well, they were given a list. But yeah, I'm sure most people weren't familiar with most. We asked for people's second preferences too, which was more interesting.


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: RogueBeaver on July 19, 2012, 09:55:15 PM
So who led second preferences? Garneau, David McGuinty or LeBland?


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: Hatman 🍁 on July 19, 2012, 10:06:55 PM
So who led second preferences? Garneau, David McGuinty or LeBland?

Didn't do enough surveys for anyone to stand out. Garneau, McGuinty and Cauchon all got one. That's all I can remember. Most people were undecided beyond Trudeau. Remember, Im calling the general public, not just Liberals (well, actually our panel members)


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: RogueBeaver on July 24, 2012, 09:22:42 PM
No sense for the environmental party to merge with a pro-oil party.

http://www.hilltimes.com/news/politics/2012/07/24/may-wants-more-green-mps-before-2015-not-interested-in-party-merger-with-grits/31605

Hmm.

http://www.ottawacitizen.com/news/Elections%2BCanada%2Binterested%2Bimmunity%2Boffer%2BMastro%2Bcase/6983047/story.html

http://www.cbc.ca/news/politics/story/2012/07/24/pol-wrzesnewskyj-opitz-elections-canada-etobicoke-centre.html

Never thought I'd see myself agreeing with Redford.

http://www.vancouversun.com/news/alberta/Alison%2BRedford%2Bturns%2Bheat%2BNorthern%2BGateway%2Broyalty%2Bwords/6982233/story.html


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: RogueBeaver on July 25, 2012, 09:15:14 PM
Clark is floundering. For once I agree with Coyne.

http://fullcomment.nationalpost.com/2012/07/25/andrew-coyne-christy-clarks-northern-gateway-demands-just-another-extortion-attempt/


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: RogueBeaver on July 31, 2012, 06:17:13 PM
Good riddance.

http://www.cbc.ca/news/politics/story/2012/07/31/pol-oda-retires.html


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: RogueBeaver on August 05, 2012, 07:42:23 PM
Christy Clark is DOOMED. Ditto Gateway.

http://www.angus-reid.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/08/2012.08.03_Politics_BC.pdf


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: Foucaulf on August 07, 2012, 06:53:55 PM
Christy Clark is DOOMED. Ditto Gateway.

http://www.angus-reid.com/wp-content/uploads/2012/08/2012.08.03_Politics_BC.pdf

It was pretty transparent that Clark's spat with Alberta over whether BC should earn revenues from the Enbridge pipeline was an attempt to gain political points, trying to balance business interests and the electorate. If she want to get elected, she ought to axe the pipeline and go from there.


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: RogueBeaver on August 07, 2012, 06:58:53 PM
That Place projects an Orange 2001. NDP 74, Libs 4, Indies 2, Tories 1. Dixquake incoming.


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: You kip if you want to... on August 08, 2012, 09:30:46 AM
That Place projects an Orange 2001. NDP 74, Libs 4, Indies 2, Tories 1. Dixquake incoming.

Another hilarious (yet brilliant) result of FPTP.


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: Talleyrand on August 08, 2012, 10:18:09 AM
That Place projects an Orange 2001. NDP 74, Libs 4, Indies 2, Tories 1. Dixquake incoming.

Do you mean 78 for the NDP?


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: RogueBeaver on August 08, 2012, 10:34:12 AM
Oops. Yeah, 78 NDP.


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: Talleyrand on August 08, 2012, 10:56:16 AM
Some Questions-

Does it look like Clark will lose Vancouver-Point Grey? Or will she move to a different electorate?

Does Cummins have a chance of making it into parliament at all?


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: RogueBeaver on August 08, 2012, 11:00:20 AM
Clark: She barely won it when she entered the legislature.

Cummins: No idea. Ask Foucaulf or Hatman.


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: Foucaulf on August 08, 2012, 03:29:30 PM
One problem I have with that site's analysis is this sentence:

Quote
While [his projection] is an incredible result for the NDP, it isn't unusual for B.C. The 2001 election resulted in an opposition of two MLAs.

Which is very dishonest on his part, considering BC politics for 60 years consisted of right-wing coalitions/mass parties against a solid bloc of CCF/NDP voters. The massive swing of 2001 was due to a NDP government corrupted by bad business deals - and the case ought to be the same in 2013.

Does Cummins have a chance of making it into parliament at all?

I don't think so for two reasons:

-Does he have a base? Before party leader he was a Conservative MP out of Harper's inner circle, representing Richmond East (anti-HST and pro-NDP as a consequence) and Delta (where  former councilor Vicki Huntington looks safe). He has very low name recognition because of a media used to a two-party system. There are two areas where his message could sell: in the Interior and in Vancouver's majority-white eastern suburbs. He has not lived in either.

-His platform is bare-bones, typical for a protest party. I'm not saying Conservative voters will switch back to the Liberals, but their base is groups of angry seniors, minorities in every riding. It's more likely star candidates hijack the Conservative name than the other way around.


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: MaxQue on August 08, 2012, 08:07:03 PM
Delta (where  former councilor Vicki Huntington looks safe).

A question. I remember than she is that Independant elected in a Liberal riding.
Does she leans on a side?


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: Foucaulf on August 09, 2012, 12:27:47 AM
A question. I remember than she is that Independant elected in a Liberal riding.
Does she leans on a side?

She isn't a very vocal critic of the government, and her rationale for being an independent in the first place is so she can pursue pet issues. Like I said before, not being in either main party really sucks the airtime out of you.  From what I can tell she has gotten herself involved in opposing the HST and is stridently against environmental exploitation. She is far too economically liberal to be in the NDP; more like Clark in that aspect.

Her victory is probably a response to the Liberal candidate, Wally Oppal, being parachuted into Delta. His riding was vacated to make way for police chief Kash Heed, a star candidate with Punjabi appeal - who ended up being shamed by campaign finance problems anyway.


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: 2952-0-0 on August 09, 2012, 04:46:25 PM
I sure won't want the job of BC Liberals election strategist now.


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: RogueBeaver on August 17, 2012, 03:25:05 PM
Dippers rejoice.

http://www.winnipegfreepress.com/canada/mulcair-says-ndp-will-run-quebec-party-in-time-for-the-provincial-next-election-166568356.html

This shouldn't be a partisan thing- all 3 parties should work together against Marois if she wins.

http://www.thestar.com/news/canada/politics/article/1243402--quebec-election-2012-stephen-harper-versus-premier-pauline-marois-would-be-a-bout-for-the-ages


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: You kip if you want to... on August 17, 2012, 04:43:58 PM
Marois seems like one of those politicians who becomes a hate figure once they get in office.


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: RogueBeaver on August 17, 2012, 04:50:48 PM
Marois seems like one of those politicians who becomes a hate figure once they get in office.

She's a snobby, aloof elitist who's less popular than her party. I've heard many things said about her but "hate" isn't one of them.


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: MaxQue on September 04, 2012, 11:36:36 PM
At PQ victory party, someone fired on 2 persons and arsoned the building.

The two victims are in critical state, and the fire is under control. Marois is safe.


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: 後援会 on September 05, 2012, 01:02:47 AM
Dippers rejoice.

http://www.winnipegfreepress.com/canada/mulcair-says-ndp-will-run-quebec-party-in-time-for-the-provincial-next-election-166568356.html

Who would a Quebec NDP hurt the most? The PQ? The Liberals?


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: You kip if you want to... on September 05, 2012, 07:09:55 PM
Dippers rejoice.

http://www.winnipegfreepress.com/canada/mulcair-says-ndp-will-run-quebec-party-in-time-for-the-provincial-next-election-166568356.html

Who would a Quebec NDP hurt the most? The PQ? The Liberals?

The PQ. Lefties who want a united Canada wouldn't feel the need to go the PQ every time, hoping they'll not get crazy.


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: RogueBeaver on September 05, 2012, 08:07:28 PM
Mulcair said that in light of the PQ victory the plans for NPDQ are on hold.

Next up: Session starts on the 17th, if we don't get some Liberal candidates declaring beforehand.


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: LastVoter on September 06, 2012, 12:57:43 AM
Mulcair said that in light of the PQ victory the plans for NPDQ are on hold.

Next up: Session starts on the 17th, if we don't get some Liberal candidates declaring beforehand.
Is Mulcair not trying to win anymore?


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: Хahar 🤔 on September 06, 2012, 01:52:16 AM
Because he recognized a provincial NDP in Quebec would be an awful idea?


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: RogueBeaver on September 06, 2012, 02:35:30 PM
Ideologically the PQ and QS are also social democratic, so there's that. Plus a branch plant party is never a good idea in Quebec, as the Liberals (who were literally a branch plant of the PLC until the 1950s) know from their wartime experiences. Brian Mulroney personally squelched a proposed PCQ in the '80s.



Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: MaxQue on September 06, 2012, 03:34:22 PM
Mulcair said that in light of the PQ victory the plans for NPDQ are on hold.

Next up: Session starts on the 17th, if we don't get some Liberal candidates declaring beforehand.
Is Mulcair not trying to win anymore?

In a minority context, elections can be at any moment and launching the party and giving solid footing would at least take a year or two.
Going too quickly would only hurt the party.


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: RogueBeaver on September 07, 2012, 10:31:28 AM
We just severed diplomatic relations with Iran.

http://www.cbc.ca/news/politics/story/2012/09/07/pol-baird-canada-iran-embassy.html


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: Vote UKIP! on September 08, 2012, 07:57:28 PM
We just severed diplomatic relations with Iran.

http://www.cbc.ca/news/politics/story/2012/09/07/pol-baird-canada-iran-embassy.html

America should have done this. Can we switch your Harper for our Obama?


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: Marokai Backbeat on September 08, 2012, 09:25:19 PM
We just severed diplomatic relations with Iran.

http://www.cbc.ca/news/politics/story/2012/09/07/pol-baird-canada-iran-embassy.html

America should have done this. Can we switch your Harper for our Obama?

We severed diplomatic relations with Iran over thirty years ago. Under Jimmy Carter.


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: Vote UKIP! on September 08, 2012, 09:39:22 PM
We just severed diplomatic relations with Iran.

http://www.cbc.ca/news/politics/story/2012/09/07/pol-baird-canada-iran-embassy.html

America should have done this. Can we switch your Harper for our Obama?

Your right, my bad.

We severed diplomatic relations with Iran over thirty years ago. Under Jimmy Carter.

Your right, my bad


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: RogueBeaver on September 11, 2012, 03:25:01 PM
Another serious health crisis for Lougheed.

http://www.theglobeandmail.com/news/national/former-alberta-premier-peter-lougheed-gravely-ill-successor-says/article4536134/


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: RogueBeaver on September 19, 2012, 02:23:28 PM
QP today: Residential schools compensation, energy deals, Blue-Orange energy wars.


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: RogueBeaver on September 20, 2012, 05:12:54 PM
Mostly positive reviews for the Marois cabinet, which has already closed Gentilly and canceled the tuition hikes through OIC.

http://www.lapresse.ca/debats/chroniques/lysiane-gagnon/201209/19/01-4575679-regime-minceur.php

The MP pension reform will be in the omnibus.

http://www.ledevoir.com/politique/canada/359625/le-projet-de-loi-omnibus-federal-incluera-la-reforme-des-retraites-des-deputes


Couillard will formalize things once the rules are announced, which won't be for a few weeks.

http://www.ledevoir.com/politique/quebec/359598/couillard-laisse-planer-le-doute


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: CLARENCE 2015! on September 20, 2012, 05:14:12 PM
How is the NDP opposition being received?


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: RogueBeaver on September 20, 2012, 05:30:52 PM
How is the NDP opposition being received?

They're in a dead heat with the Tories, if that's what you're wondering. More generally people are getting accustomed to it.


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: RogueBeaver on September 20, 2012, 07:51:51 PM
MacKay trying for a reboot but he'll never be leader. Intraparty arithmetic and F-35 aside, he simply doesn't have an assertive personality. Which isn't to say he's a wimp- quite the contrary- but no oomph.

http://fullcomment.nationalpost.com/2012/09/20/john-ivison-peter-mackay-looks-to-rebound-political-career-after-f-35-debacle/


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: Marokai Backbeat on September 20, 2012, 08:20:12 PM
The MP pension reform will be in the omnibus.

http://www.ledevoir.com/politique/canada/359625/le-projet-de-loi-omnibus-federal-incluera-la-reforme-des-retraites-des-deputes

Why legislate at any other time when you can just throw everything in omnibus budget bills!


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: RogueBeaver on September 20, 2012, 08:34:38 PM
I agree with you that it should be separate, especially given the rather tripartisan nature of this bill.


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: Hash on September 20, 2012, 09:37:45 PM
The MP pension reform will be in the omnibus.

http://www.ledevoir.com/politique/canada/359625/le-projet-de-loi-omnibus-federal-incluera-la-reforme-des-retraites-des-deputes

Why legislate at any other time when you can just throw everything in omnibus budget bills!

Given that there's no pesky opposition to please, it just goes faster to put all the horror and bullsh**t into a single omnibus bill given that it'll all pass anyway. The Conservatives have paid lip service to parliamentary democracy since 2008, nothing else is new.


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: RogueBeaver on September 24, 2012, 09:16:52 AM
Bachand is in.

http://www.lapresse.ca/actualites/quebec-canada/politique-quebecoise/201209/24/01-4576840-plq-raymond-bachand-sera-de-la-course.php?


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: RogueBeaver on September 25, 2012, 09:04:32 AM
PLQ leadership race ends in February, contest won't kick off for a month.

http://www.lapresse.ca/actualites/quebec-canada/politique-quebecoise/201209/25/01-4577244-course-liberale-un-nouveau-chef-en-fevrier.php?


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: Vote UKIP! on September 25, 2012, 04:00:13 PM
RogueBeaver, why is JT in your signature?

Also, if Peter MacKay can't make the leadership, what hopes do the Red Tories have in doing so?


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: MyRescueKittehRocks on September 25, 2012, 10:15:27 PM
Motion 312 will be up for MP vote  tomorrow. I pray it pass. If so its a pro-life Canada. As a pro life advocate south of your border I pray you pass this.


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: Holmes on September 26, 2012, 10:43:05 AM
Pray real hard!


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: RogueBeaver on September 26, 2012, 10:55:44 AM
It isn't passing. If you wanted to commit political suicide and pass an abortion-banning bill (which Woodsworth's bill isn't) you'd need a different Supreme Court or use the notwithstanding clause to override them.


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: Vote UKIP! on September 26, 2012, 09:51:19 PM
It's interesting that Harper doesn't want to touch social issues, since he was pro-life and traditional marriage. Forgive me for stating the obvious, but I believe that Harper's reluctance to deal with such issues is part of a greater goal of replacing the Grits with the Tories as the de facto ruling party of Canada.


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: MaxQue on September 26, 2012, 11:24:52 PM
It's interesting that Harper doesn't want to touch social issues, since he was pro-life and traditional marriage. Forgive me for stating the obvious, but I believe that Harper's reluctance to deal with such issues is part of a greater goal of replacing the Grits with the Tories as the de facto ruling party of Canada.

Well, its mainly than he had his majority government because of suburban Ontario, which doesn't approve of social conservatism. A purely socially conservative party has an high floor, but the celling is below the majority threshold.


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: MaxQue on September 27, 2012, 02:59:17 AM
If any Liberal is listening here, please get rid of MacAulay, Lamoureux and the two Scarborough MPs.

Thanks.


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: Hatman 🍁 on September 27, 2012, 06:51:57 AM
I think during the SSM vote, every single Scarborough MP (all Liberal at the time), voted against it. Really weird, considering how much of a potential the NDP has there.

Also, lol @ Status of Women Minister Rona Ambrose voting in favour of this. But then again, this is really a debate that should be decided by women.


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: RogueBeaver on September 27, 2012, 10:07:31 AM
Olivia Chow considering a mayoral run?

http://warrenkinsella.com/2012/09/chow-for-mayor/#comments


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: Holmes on September 27, 2012, 05:12:34 PM
I don't know how I feel about that. I mean I would obviously support her 1000% no matter what she plans to do, and a return to municipal politics and becoming mayor of Toronto would be awesome (anyone could defeat Ford at this point). But I love her in the House of Commons, and the people of Trinity-Spadina and Toronto would be losing an amazing representative and advocate.


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: Bacon King on September 27, 2012, 05:34:34 PM
It's interesting that Harper doesn't want to touch social issues, since he was pro-life and traditional marriage. Forgive me for stating the obvious, but I believe that Harper's reluctance to deal with such issues is part of a greater goal of replacing the Grits with the Tories as the de facto ruling party of Canada.

Regardless of other political reasons involved, one would have to assume that Harper is very wary of reopening the marriage debate; any effort to do so on his part would inevitably push into the limelight some elements of his marriage he certainly prefers to keep away from public discourse...


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: RogueBeaver on September 27, 2012, 06:19:34 PM
Despite disagreeing with her politically I've always liked Olivia Chow. Ford is an embarrassment. So here's hoping she runs.


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: RogueBeaver on September 28, 2012, 11:43:29 AM
PLQ leadership update: Bachand's in.

http://www.lapresse.ca/actualites/quebec-canada/politique-quebecoise/201209/28/01-4578519-direction-du-plq-raymond-bachand-est-candidat.php


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: Vote UKIP! on September 28, 2012, 01:19:58 PM
Despite disagreeing with her politically I've always liked Olivia Chow. Ford is an embarrassment. So here's hoping she runs.

She could have been NDP leader if she wanted.



Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: MaxQue on September 28, 2012, 11:17:54 PM
So, Chow in Toronto and Coderre in Montreal?
Well, that would be in improvement over Ford (the tea partier) and Tremblay (the clueless guy which is never aware of anything and seems incredibly naive).


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: RogueBeaver on September 29, 2012, 06:15:24 PM
Khadr's back.

http://www.theglobeandmail.com/news/national/the-us-dumps-a-problem-on-ottawa-with-omar-khadrs-returns/article4577095/

McGuinty gets 86% at his leadership review.

http://www.thestar.com/news/canada/politics/article/1264373--dalton-mcguinty-wins-leadership-review

Quick question for Ontarians: what's going on with the wild poll variations? Cause some polls have a Lib-PC dead heat and others a PC-NDP dead heat with the Liberals a distant third.


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: Hash on September 30, 2012, 09:26:28 AM
Quick question for Ontarians: what's going on with the wild poll variations? Cause some polls have a Lib-PC dead heat and others a PC-NDP dead heat with the Liberals a distant third.

Isn't Nanos the only pollster to show the Liberals polling decently? The latest Forum shows the PCs at 37, the NDP at 35 and the Liberals at 20. Incidentally, if that result ever came to be, I'd probably commit suicide. Hudak is a disgusting scumbag who would be a total and utter disaster for the province (possibly worse than Mike Harris) and who would totally destroy whatever good is left in Ontario. Horwath is a horrible person who would be a crappy Premier; if the ONDP was led by some Mulcair-type, I really wouldn't care and would probably be voting NDP, but Horwath is so horrible. Ugh.


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: RogueBeaver on September 30, 2012, 10:08:57 AM
Early '90s all over again? Truth be told I have no confidence in the PCs to win an election after self-nuking in 2 consecutive open-goal elections. Agreed on Horwath being a horrible premier if she won. Theoretically everyone should lose but in practice someone will win.

Anyone have any idea what the seat projection would look like? Or better put, who has better vote distribution: Team Blue or Team Orange?


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: RogueBeaver on September 30, 2012, 01:33:01 PM
PLQ leadership update: Moreau's in tomorrow, Couillard either Tuesday or Wednesday.

http://www.radio-canada.ca/nouvelles/Politique/2012/09/25/002-couillard-course-plq.shtml

http://www.radio-canada.ca/nouvelles/Politique/2012/09/30/002-pierre-moreau-candidat-plq.shtml


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: Kitteh on September 30, 2012, 01:48:44 PM
According to Eric Grenier's projections (can't post links yet), Forum's poll would give the liberals three seats. Wow.


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: RogueBeaver on September 30, 2012, 01:54:11 PM
Don't post 308 links, Hatman will blow a fuse. :P


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: Kitteh on September 30, 2012, 02:25:18 PM
Don't post 308 links, Hatman will blow a fuse. :P
I know 308 isn't great, but his tracking poll reports are just uniform swing with regional-level data, which is just about all anybody can do right now.


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: RogueBeaver on September 30, 2012, 08:59:38 PM
Couillard lays out his manifesto, will announce Wednesday.

http://journalmetro.com/actualites/national/164832/couillard-veut-rouvrir-le-debat-identitaire/



Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: RogueBeaver on September 30, 2012, 09:41:30 PM
Both Raylene Rankin and Barbara Ann Scott have passed away today. RIP.


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: RogueBeaver on October 01, 2012, 09:17:27 AM
Rob Anders reminds once again just how RL trollish he is. Dunno why the PM keeps protecting this guy from a nomination challenge.

http://www.ipolitics.ca/2012/10/01/lunch-with-anders-speaks-from-conviction-and-going-nowhere/

Another game of chicken here in Ontario. Someone will blink.

http://warrenkinsella.com/2012/10/ontario-election-coming-soon/#comments

Horwath also sounding more equivocal, per Twitter.

Per Twitter, rancher Judith Guichon is BC's new LG.


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: Holmes on October 02, 2012, 07:18:42 AM
Ew, Beav, tell me you don't read Warren Kinsella's crappy blog. I mean, just look at his most recent post. He wrote a Trudeau speech, and it begins with him likening himself to Abraham Lincoln.


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: Frodo on October 07, 2012, 12:17:33 PM
What's the likelihood of Conservatives holding on to their majority in Parliament after the elections in 2015 or so? I have my thoughts (especially when you consider the economic recovery from this recent recession will likely be in full throttle by then), but what are yours? 


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: You kip if you want to... on October 07, 2012, 02:36:28 PM
What's the likelihood of Conservatives holding on to their majority in Parliament after the elections in 2015 or so? I have my thoughts (especially when you consider the economic recovery from this recent recession will likely be in full throttle by then), but what are yours? 

Voter fatigue normally hits in majorly around the 7-8th year


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: RogueBeaver on October 07, 2012, 02:44:59 PM
Anything could happen in the campaign- Orange Crush happened in the final 2 weeks. Right now I'm fairly optimistic.


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: DC Al Fine on October 07, 2012, 05:14:11 PM
What's the likelihood of Conservatives holding on to their majority in Parliament after the elections in 2015 or so? I have my thoughts (especially when you consider the economic recovery from this recent recession will likely be in full throttle by then), but what are yours? 

If the economy's in good shape and the anti-Harper vote splits favourably, the Tories would keep their majority. That said Conservative minority seems most likely at this point.


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: Foucaulf on October 07, 2012, 08:01:15 PM
A few stories from BC I'm following:

- An article from Vancouver's Georgia Straight from a week ago accused John Furlong (http://www.straight.com/article-788776/vancouver/furlong-bio-omits-secret-past-burns-lake), the Vancouver Olympics CEO, of abusing native students on his first visit to Canada. Furlong responds with a lawsuit while other publications scramble to fill in the story.

- Unrest over John Cummins's leadership in the BC Conservatives boils over. Cummins orders (http://www.bcconservative.ca/news/cummins-issues-ultimatum-to-dissidents/) all party dissenters to resign their membership, while oddly giving any takers a full refuns.  It's not a substantial story, but it's a chance to poke fun at the Conservatives; at this rate they don't look like the people who can build the coalition which takes down the NDP.

-Elaborating on that BC Lieutenant-Governor announcement: Guichon is a highly-ranked lobbyist for the ranchers and donated (http://thetyee.ca/Blogs/TheHook/Federal-Politics/2012/10/01/LieutenantDonator/) to the Liberal party.


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: MaxQue on October 15, 2012, 05:43:12 PM
Ontario PM, Dalton McGuinty resigns.


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: Hash on October 16, 2012, 04:46:18 PM
In today's episode of Conservative Party Fiscal Responsibility!, we'll talk about James Moore spending $25 million on renaming the Canadian Museum of Civilizations to the History Museum.


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: RogueBeaver on October 16, 2012, 04:57:42 PM
Yeah, I'll freely admit to being disappointed with Harper's record on deficits. As for McGuinty, no surprise except possibly timing.


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: Hatman 🍁 on October 16, 2012, 05:08:55 PM
In today's episode of Conservative Party Fiscal Responsibility!, we'll talk about James Moore spending $25 million on renaming the Canadian Museum of Civilizations to the History Museum.
For some reason, I thought it was the Nature museum they were renaming. This makes much more sense, but is unnecessary and still doesn't make *that* much sense, as the museum isn't all about history.


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: MaxQue on October 16, 2012, 08:26:43 PM
At least, people will stop confusing "Musée des Civilisations" (in Ottawa, federal) and "Musée de la Civilisation" (in Quebec City, provincial).


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: Peter the Lefty on October 17, 2012, 02:38:00 PM
Quick question for Ontarians: what's going on with the wild poll variations? Cause some polls have a Lib-PC dead heat and others a PC-NDP dead heat with the Liberals a distant third.

Isn't Nanos the only pollster to show the Liberals polling decently? The latest Forum shows the PCs at 37, the NDP at 35 and the Liberals at 20. Incidentally, if that result ever came to be, I'd probably commit suicide. Hudak is a disgusting scumbag who would be a total and utter disaster for the province (possibly worse than Mike Harris) and who would totally destroy whatever good is left in Ontario. Horwath is a horrible person who would be a crappy Premier; if the ONDP was led by some Mulcair-type, I really wouldn't care and would probably be voting NDP, but Horwath is so horrible. Ugh.
What's so awful about Horwath?  Even for a Liberal voter?


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: Hatman 🍁 on October 17, 2012, 03:24:27 PM
Quick question for Ontarians: what's going on with the wild poll variations? Cause some polls have a Lib-PC dead heat and others a PC-NDP dead heat with the Liberals a distant third.

Isn't Nanos the only pollster to show the Liberals polling decently? The latest Forum shows the PCs at 37, the NDP at 35 and the Liberals at 20. Incidentally, if that result ever came to be, I'd probably commit suicide. Hudak is a disgusting scumbag who would be a total and utter disaster for the province (possibly worse than Mike Harris) and who would totally destroy whatever good is left in Ontario. Horwath is a horrible person who would be a crappy Premier; if the ONDP was led by some Mulcair-type, I really wouldn't care and would probably be voting NDP, but Horwath is so horrible. Ugh.
What's so awful about Horwath?  Even for a Liberal voter?

Dont mind him, he can be a Liberal hack sometimes.

Horwath is extremely popular in Ontario, certainly compared to her rivals. It's one of the reasons why we are now ahead in the polls in the province.


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: RogueBeaver on October 17, 2012, 03:32:06 PM
Can't speak for Hash, I'll just say she's a decent person whom I fundamentally disagree with politically.

Hatman: Last I heard 'twas a dead Blue-Orange heat.


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: Holmes on October 18, 2012, 05:04:46 PM
I think the only reason that the Liberals did so "good" in the previous election was Hudak, and because McGuinty is no novice, and was able to siphon quite a bit of NDP-leaning voters to give him his minority. But he's even more tainted now, and on his way out, so Ontario is aligning itself with the rest of the country and becoming orange versus blue (although, since Dexter sucks so much, Nova Scotia is orange versus red at the moment). Just interesting that it took this long. The final holdouts seem to be New Brunswick and PEI.


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: MaxQue on October 18, 2012, 06:34:58 PM
I think the only reason that the Liberals did so "good" in the previous election was Hudak, and because McGuinty is no novice, and was able to siphon quite a bit of NDP-leaning voters to give him his minority. But he's even more tainted now, and on his way out, so Ontario is aligning itself with the rest of the country and becoming orange versus blue (although, since Dexter sucks so much, Nova Scotia is orange versus red at the moment). Just interesting that it took this long. The final holdouts seem to be New Brunswick and PEI.

With the very notable exception of Quebec.


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: RogueBeaver on October 19, 2012, 05:03:01 PM
Supremes rule on Etobicoke Centre next week.

http://www.cbc.ca/news/canada/story/2012/10/19/optiz-wreznewskyj-scoc-thurs-oct25.html


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: Hatman 🍁 on October 19, 2012, 09:27:02 PM
RIP Lincoln Alexander


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: DC Al Fine on October 20, 2012, 07:35:14 AM
Supremes rule on Etobicoke Centre next week.

http://www.cbc.ca/news/canada/story/2012/10/19/optiz-wreznewskyj-scoc-thurs-oct25.html

That would be a brutal by-election for the Tories.


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: RogueBeaver on October 21, 2012, 09:40:07 AM
They had doubts about both evidence and witness credibility in the July hearing, so we'll see how that turns out. I'd be surprised if we retained it in 2015.

Speaking of by-elections, the troika of Calgary Centre, Durham and Victoria have been called for Nov. 26.

http://www.cbc.ca/news/politics/inside-politics-blog/2012/10/by-election-watch-calgary-centre-durham-and-victoria-voters-head-to-polls-on-nov-26.html


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: RogueBeaver on October 24, 2012, 09:57:20 PM
First Charbonneau domino topples: Gilles Vaillancourt, who's "temporarily" stepping aside. Depends how quickly police find the cash.

http://www.winnipegfreepress.com/canada/anti-corruption-raid-in-quebec-banks-reports-say-laval-mayor-targeted-175675701.html


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: MaxQue on October 24, 2012, 11:05:11 PM
At least, news are refraining of using the word "surprising" in all that story, given the name of the current witness.


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: RogueBeaver on October 25, 2012, 09:27:47 AM
Supremes: Ted Opitz remains the MP for Etobicoke Centre.

http://www.cbc.ca/news/politics/story/2012/10/25/pol-supreme-court-etobicoke-centre-ruling.html


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: Holmes on October 29, 2012, 07:27:32 AM
Forum Ontario numbers with different Liberals leaders.

Dwight Duncan
PC 40% / NDP 39% / LIB 16% / GRN 4%

Deb Matthews
PC 38% / NDP 36% / LIB 20% / GRN 5%

Kathleen Wynne
PC 35% / NDP 36% / LIB 22% / GRN 6%

George Smitherman
PC 36% / NDP 35% / LIB 23% / GRN 5%

Michael Bryant
PC 39% / NDP 37% / LIB 18% / GRN 5%

Brad Duguid
PC 36% / NDP 38% / LIB 20% / GRN 5%

The moral is, the Liberals need a leader from Toronto... in order to get above 20% support. :) Someone got a fork?


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: RogueBeaver on October 29, 2012, 07:30:03 AM
Didn't poll Pupatello, though I doubt she'd poll much better.


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: RogueBeaver on October 30, 2012, 05:06:55 PM
Charbonneau update: Tremblay was allegedly in the room when illegal financing was discussed. If true, manure, meet fan.

http://www.theglobeandmail.com/news/national/testimony-in-quebec-corruption-probe-directly-implicates-montreal-mayor/article4754334/

In less disturbing municipal news, Chow would whup Ford in a 2-way matchup.

http://fullcomment.nationalpost.com/2012/10/30/matt-gurney-fords-dumb-mistakes-make-mayor-olivia-chow-more-likely/


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: Hatman 🍁 on October 30, 2012, 05:30:14 PM
Forum Ontario numbers with different Liberals leaders.

Dwight Duncan
PC 40% / NDP 39% / LIB 16% / GRN 4%

Deb Matthews
PC 38% / NDP 36% / LIB 20% / GRN 5%

Kathleen Wynne
PC 35% / NDP 36% / LIB 22% / GRN 6%

George Smitherman
PC 36% / NDP 35% / LIB 23% / GRN 5%

Michael Bryant
PC 39% / NDP 37% / LIB 18% / GRN 5%

Brad Duguid
PC 36% / NDP 38% / LIB 20% / GRN 5%

The moral is, the Liberals need a leader from Toronto... in order to get above 20% support. :) Someone got a fork?

Interesting. I know we just did a poll for a non-profit client that showed the NDP ahead. It was conducted just after McGuinty resigned.
Charbonneau update: Tremblay was allegedly in the room when illegal financing was discussed. If true, manure, meet fan.

http://www.theglobeandmail.com/news/national/testimony-in-quebec-corruption-probe-directly-implicates-montreal-mayor/article4754334/

In less disturbing municipal news, Chow would whup Ford in a 2-way matchup.

http://fullcomment.nationalpost.com/2012/10/30/matt-gurney-fords-dumb-mistakes-make-mayor-olivia-chow-more-likely/

Woot. We dont want to lose her federally, though




Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: Filuwaúrdjan on October 30, 2012, 05:46:48 PM
Ah, Montreal.


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: Holmes on October 31, 2012, 07:24:03 AM
40% approval for Ford!?!!?!?!???! Do I live in the same city as these people??

42% think he's been a good influence! Good grief!! Even my family in Northern Ontario talk about the embarrassing stuff he's done and they can't even name another Toronto mayor.


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: Orion0 on October 31, 2012, 01:57:37 PM
40% approval for Ford!?!!?!?!???! Do I live in the same city as these people??

42% think he's been a good influence! Good grief!! Even my family in Northern Ontario talk about the embarrassing stuff he's done and they can't even name another Toronto mayor.

I think it speaks to the fact that while ford has definite shortcomings with regards to being media friendly (friendly in general perhaps?) his political agenda has serious support. The canceling of the personal vehicle tax, coupled with the surplus from 2011 (among other issues) are probably still holding his support at such levels.

On another front, Lethbridge college has a poll of Alberta federal voting intentions over here: http://www.threehundredeight.com/2012/10/detailed-breakdown-of-alberta-federal.html and while it's nothing shocking (cons at 50+% support? You don't say!) It did offer a couple interesting points. What would it take to shift Alberta's politics in a major way? And would the libs and NDP benefit from conceding contests to the other resulting in a more even 2-party like race?

I tend to think that the latter is a great idea for the non-cons. pick a riding or 2 and dont run a candidate, urging support for the other. When I lived in Edmonton it seemed that the ridings that could be picked up (Ed centre, east and strathcona) were contested so heavily by big recognizable names for both the NDP and libs, it resulted in a 3 way split. Take Edmonton centre, add the lib and NDP % from 2011 together (22.4 and 25.4) and its almost equal to con support at 48%. Any traction there or are agreements like that too controversial to work?


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: Hatman 🍁 on October 31, 2012, 02:55:13 PM
While it would be great for the average voter, I would vote for a fringe party before voting Liberal.


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: RogueBeaver on November 03, 2012, 01:24:20 PM
NPD-QC or no NPD-QC, 'tis the question.

http://www.winnipegfreepress.com/canada/ndp-divided-on-setting-up-quebec-party-with-priority-on-taking-down-harper-177096131.html

LOL McGuinty.

http://www.cbc.ca/news/politics/story/2012/11/02/pol-mcguinty-exit-interview-the-house.html


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: DC Al Fine on November 04, 2012, 07:48:03 AM
I saw a poll that had the Liberals with JT as leader polling at 39%. Perhaps the NDP should be focusing on not going back to 3rd place.


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: RogueBeaver on November 04, 2012, 08:08:09 PM
BOOM: Vaillancourt goes down, will resign. :D Is Tremblay next?

http://fr.canoe.ca/infos/quebeccanada/archives/2012/11/20121104-175159.html


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: MaxQue on November 04, 2012, 09:31:18 PM
I saw a poll that had the Liberals with JT as leader polling at 39%. Perhaps the NDP should be focusing on not going back to 3rd place.

Not needed. Justin Trudeau is an awful politician, it will go down as soon Canadians hear him.


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: Holmes on November 05, 2012, 08:24:53 AM
McGuinty is such a whiny, lying, self-entitled asshole who thinks everything should just be handed to him on a silver platter. Maybe he'll never go down electorally, but hopefully the gas plant scandal is brought to everyone's attention during his retirement.


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: MaxQue on November 05, 2012, 06:55:03 PM
Various news outlets are reporting than the mayor of Montreal will resign at 7PM, tonight.

http://www.lapresse.ca/actualites/regional/montreal/201211/05/01-4590621-le-maire-tremblay-quittera-la-mairie.php (http://www.lapresse.ca/actualites/regional/montreal/201211/05/01-4590621-le-maire-tremblay-quittera-la-mairie.php)


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: RogueBeaver on November 05, 2012, 07:18:16 PM
The end of an era, but as soon as he took that leave and nominated an acting mayor the outcome was predictable. So will Coderre create a new party or pick up what's left of the UM banner?


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: RogueBeaver on November 05, 2012, 08:52:09 PM
Marois/Marceau will bring down their first budget 2 weeks from tomorrow.

http://www.ledevoir.com/politique/quebec/363212/le-gouvernement-marois-deposera-son-budget-le-20-novembre


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: DC Al Fine on November 05, 2012, 10:00:24 PM
Marois/Marceau will bring down their first budget 2 weeks from tomorrow.

http://www.ledevoir.com/politique/quebec/363212/le-gouvernement-marois-deposera-son-budget-le-20-novembre

Odds of a winter election?


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: RogueBeaver on November 06, 2012, 07:44:57 AM
None. After the opposition's stupid fauxmanship on the Premier's Address (i.e. Throne Speech) they won't want to trigger an election barely 2 months after the change in government. Plus the Liberals are leaderless and up to their necks in Charbonneau sleaze. If Marois called their bluff, IMO she'd either get a majority or very close to it.


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: Holmes on November 06, 2012, 08:07:22 AM
Yes, consecutive elections are very unpopular, and the Opposition's supporters probably wouldn't reward them for forcing another one so soon.


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: RogueBeaver on November 08, 2012, 09:09:06 AM
Penashue still under fire. Does this end with Xmas recess?

http://www.winnipegfreepress.com/canada/penashue-under-fire-on-two-fronts-illegal-campaign-financing-not-doing-his-job-177751711.html


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: RogueBeaver on November 08, 2012, 12:55:07 PM
Double boom: Vaillancourt resigns.

http://www.lapresse.ca/actualites/regional/201211/08/01-4591756-gilles-vaillancourt-demissionnerait-demain.php?

Pupatello: Legislature's not coming back till I do.

http://toronto.ctvnews.ca/former-minister-sandra-pupatello-launches-liberal-leadership-bid-1.1029628


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: RogueBeaver on November 10, 2012, 10:33:37 AM
Good riddance. Wildrose is where most Alberta Tories align anyways.

http://www.calgaryherald.com/opinion/columnists/Braid%2BWildrose%2Bdalliance%2Bexclude%2Bfederal%2BTories%2Bfrom/7528239/story.html

http://www.theglobeandmail.com/commentary/all-is-not-well-in-the-state-of-alison-redford/article5165619/?cmpid=rss1&utm_source=dlvr.it&utm_medium=twitter


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: RogueBeaver on November 10, 2012, 04:43:34 PM
Whateva.

http://www.edmontonjournal.com/news/Provincial+party+draws+line+with+federal+Conservatives/7530818/story.html

Someone will blink, perhaps the leaderless Grits.

http://www.winnipegfreepress.com/canada/quebec-premier-pauline-marois-launches-appeal-to-opposition-over-upcoming-budget-178430701.html


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: RogueBeaver on November 11, 2012, 02:06:18 PM
Marois will be introducing the new Loi 101 before Xmas break. The opposition parties are nominally opposed but I think they'll strike a deal if pushed hard enough. Legault was a language mega-hawk until he left the PQ and Couillard has already signalled that he wants the PLQ to start competing with the PQ on ID/language.

http://www.lapresse.ca/actualites/quebec-canada/politique-quebecoise/201211/10/01-4592453-depot-imminent-dune-nouvelle-loi-101.php


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: DC Al Fine on November 11, 2012, 02:33:44 PM
Marois will be introducing the new Loi 101 before Xmas break. The opposition parties are nominally opposed but I think they'll strike a deal if pushed hard enough. Legault was a language mega-hawk until he left the PQ and Couillard has already signalled that he wants the PLQ to start competing with the PQ on ID/language.

http://www.lapresse.ca/actualites/quebec-canada/politique-quebecoise/201211/10/01-4592453-depot-imminent-dune-nouvelle-loi-101.php

So where do the Anglos go if the Liberals are just as bad as the PQ?


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: RogueBeaver on November 11, 2012, 02:59:44 PM
They're stuck with them. Even the very anti-Peq ones. Personally I don't think the PLQ can remotely compete in a bidding war on language/ID issues but Couillard wants to try. Like the original one, it'll be an omnibus containing both commercial and educational provisions. CEGEP-101 will probably be a major component.


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: DC Al Fine on November 11, 2012, 03:48:33 PM
One has to wonder what the Liberals are thinking by trying to go toe to toe with the PQ on language. There is no way they are going to win the votes of hardcore French nationalists. This will alienate their best supporters and risk another Equality Part. showing up.


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: Mikhail Faustin on November 11, 2012, 05:31:42 PM
i tink the liberals are a dume party tat is full of stupid n coon socialists & i would vote for christian hertigy or the nazi party n some hardcore conservatives


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: DC Al Fine on November 11, 2012, 11:27:05 PM
i tink the liberals are a dume party tat is full of stupid n coon socialists & i would vote for christian hertigy or the nazi party n some hardcore conservatives

CHP wouldn't have you.


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: MaxQue on November 12, 2012, 12:06:49 AM
One has to wonder what the Liberals are thinking by trying to go toe to toe with the PQ on language. There is no way they are going to win the votes of hardcore French nationalists. This will alienate their best supporters and risk another Equality Part. showing up.

Equality Party was a disaster which only marginalized Anglos. It looked to the average French voters than the Anglos were unable to accept than they were a minority and weren't ruling Québec as before the 60's. I'm quite sure than a rerun wouldn't work.

Liberals are making a wonderful work of making Anglos voting for them by scaring them with the risk of independantists having the most seats in Assembly if they don't vote Liberal.


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: DC Al Fine on November 13, 2012, 07:02:24 AM
One has to wonder what the Liberals are thinking by trying to go toe to toe with the PQ on language. There is no way they are going to win the votes of hardcore French nationalists. This will alienate their best supporters and risk another Equality Part. showing up.

Equality Party was a disaster which only marginalized Anglos. It looked to the average French voters than the Anglos were unable to accept than they were a minority and weren't ruling Québec as before the 60's. I'm quite sure than a rerun wouldn't work.

Liberals are making a wonderful work of making Anglos voting for them by scaring them with the risk of independantists having the most seats in Assembly if they don't vote Liberal.

I think an Equality Party would be useful to Anglos insofar as it reminds the Liberals that they can't win power without the Anglos. Not that it should stay around longer than 1-2 elections.


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: RogueBeaver on November 13, 2012, 06:35:35 PM
Speaking as a Quebec Anglo, no. Just no.


In other news... ugh, just ugh. I don't like the current system but the law's the law.

http://www.lapresse.ca/actualites/quebec-canada/politique-canadienne/201211/13/01-4593372-penashue-surpris-et-decu-des-allegations-de-financement-illegal.php

More ugh.

http://www.lapresse.ca/actualites/quebec-canada/politique-canadienne/201211/13/01-4593341-lequilibre-budgetaire-encore-reporte-dun-an.php

The opposition parties won't get much, if any, of this stuff.

http://www.lapresse.ca/actualites/quebec-canada/politique-canadienne/201211/13/01-4593341-lequilibre-budgetaire-encore-reporte-dun-an.php


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: DC Al Fine on November 13, 2012, 08:08:43 PM
Speaking as a Quebec Anglo, no. Just no.

Rogue Beaver, I was a twinkle in my dad's eye when the Equality party won seats. What is so bad about them?


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: Linus Van Pelt on November 13, 2012, 11:23:46 PM
Quote
À la mi-octobre, La Presse Canadienne avait révélé que la ministre de la Famille, Nicole Léger, travaillait avec d'autres ministres à un projet d'application de la loi 101 aux garderies.

Par la suite, La Presse avait relaté que l'équipe de la ministre Diane De Courcy, chargée de l'application de la Charte de la langue française, a en sa possession une liste d'éléments à revoir dans le cadre du dépôt d'une nouvelle loi 101.

Outre la question de la langue des garderies, on y retrouve l'élargissement de la loi 101 aux entreprises de moins de 50 employés, l'application de la loi aux cégeps anglophones, l'obligation d'utiliser un générique en français avec un nom de commerce anglais et l'interdiction d'inscriptions unilingues sur les électroménagers.

The thing is that this is mostly directed at non-Anglos hoping to educate their children in English, i.e. some (esp. middle-class federalist) Francophones + certain immigrant groups. What "applying Bill 101" to a level of education means is that you must have yourself been educated in English to send your children to the English system. The Anglophones won't like it, but they're not affected enough to spark some revolt.

The exception to this is getting rid of the language-of-work exemption for businesses with under 50 employees, but I assume they're not actually going to make some little store owner in Aylmer speak French to his staff of three. That's the sort of thing they say they're "considering" every so often to assuage the nutters.

(also, for those more fluent in French, what is "l'obligation d'utiliser un générique en français avec un nom de commerce anglais"? The only sense I can make of this is that it's about things like saying "un mouchoir" instead of "un kleenex", but surely they're not going to write that into the law?)


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: MaxQue on November 14, 2012, 11:34:46 AM
(also, for those more fluent in French, what is "l'obligation d'utiliser un générique en français avec un nom de commerce anglais"? The only sense I can make of this is that it's about things like saying "un mouchoir" instead of "un kleenex", but surely they're not going to write that into the law?)

No, it's not that. Its the stores which must have a French name. The government already requires it, but some businesses aren't willing to follow, saying they interpret the law another way. It's on the way to the courts.

To solve that, PQ wants to clearly write it in the law. For example, Starbucks Coffee is called Café Starbucks and Staples is called Bureau en Gros, Giant Tiger is called Tigre Géant.

Other businesses must add a generical French name to their name (magasin, électronique, etc.). Wal-Mart, Best Buy, Costco, Gap, Old Navy and Guess are suing.


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: You kip if you want to... on November 14, 2012, 12:40:37 PM
(also, for those more fluent in French, what is "l'obligation d'utiliser un générique en français avec un nom de commerce anglais"? The only sense I can make of this is that it's about things like saying "un mouchoir" instead of "un kleenex", but surely they're not going to write that into the law?)

No, it's not that. Its the stores which must have a French name. The government already requires it, but some businesses aren't willing to follow, saying they interpret the law another way. It's on the way to the courts.

To solve that, PQ wants to clearly write it in the law. For example, Starbucks Coffee is called Café Starbucks and Staples is called Bureau en Gros, Giant Tiger is called Tigre Géant.

Other businesses must add a generical French name to their name (magasin, électronique, etc.). Wal-Mart, Best Buy, Costco, Gap, Old Navy and Guess are suing.

Oh, Quebec. ::)


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: Linus Van Pelt on November 14, 2012, 09:53:34 PM
(also, for those more fluent in French, what is "l'obligation d'utiliser un générique en français avec un nom de commerce anglais"? The only sense I can make of this is that it's about things like saying "un mouchoir" instead of "un kleenex", but surely they're not going to write that into the law?)

No, it's not that. Its the stores which must have a French name. The government already requires it, but some businesses aren't willing to follow, saying they interpret the law another way. It's on the way to the courts.

To solve that, PQ wants to clearly write it in the law. For example, Starbucks Coffee is called Café Starbucks and Staples is called Bureau en Gros, Giant Tiger is called Tigre Géant.

Other businesses must add a generical French name to their name (magasin, électronique, etc.). Wal-Mart, Best Buy, Costco, Gap, Old Navy and Guess are suing.

I see, thanks.


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: RogueBeaver on November 20, 2012, 09:47:05 PM
As expected, the Quebec opposition parties will not trigger an election over the budget. 

http://www.winnipegfreepress.com/canada/quebecers-might-be-heading-back-to-the-polls-after-threats-to-defeat-the-budget-180225281.html


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: Hatman 🍁 on November 20, 2012, 09:58:34 PM
(also, for those more fluent in French, what is "l'obligation d'utiliser un générique en français avec un nom de commerce anglais"? The only sense I can make of this is that it's about things like saying "un mouchoir" instead of "un kleenex", but surely they're not going to write that into the law?)

No, it's not that. Its the stores which must have a French name. The government already requires it, but some businesses aren't willing to follow, saying they interpret the law another way. It's on the way to the courts.

To solve that, PQ wants to clearly write it in the law. For example, Starbucks Coffee is called Café Starbucks and Staples is called Bureau en Gros, Giant Tiger is called Tigre Géant.

Other businesses must add a generical French name to their name (magasin, électronique, etc.). Wal-Mart, Best Buy, Costco, Gap, Old Navy and Guess are suing.


Some companies have been doing this for years, like KFC (PFK).


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: RogueBeaver on November 21, 2012, 01:29:41 PM
David McGuinty is an ass, Brazeau continues to be pukeworthy, and Christy Clark's party is still a train wreck.

http://www.ctvnews.ca/politics/senator-who-lives-near-ottawa-gets-20k-housing-allowance-1.1046956

http://www.canada.com/news/Entire%2BLiberal%2Briding%2Bassociation%2Bboard%2Bresigns%2Bover/7586334/story.html

http://www.winnipegfreepress.com/canada/justin-trudeau-alberta-tories-react-to-go-home-comments-by-liberal-mcguinty-180285351.html


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: MrMittens on November 21, 2012, 01:35:34 PM
So just a normal day in Canadian politics


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: RogueBeaver on November 21, 2012, 02:33:30 PM
Rae apologizes for McGuinty.

http://www.winnipegfreepress.com/canada/rae-apologizes-for-liberal-mps-assertion-that-alberta-tories-should-go-home-180391011.html


Joe Fontana has been indicted by the RCMP.

http://www.sunnewsnetwork.ca/sunnews/politics/archives/2012/11/20121121-133355.html


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: Hatman 🍁 on November 21, 2012, 02:50:53 PM
lol London


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: RogueBeaver on November 21, 2012, 05:25:19 PM
McGuinty has resigned as natural resources critic, per Twitter.


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: Hatman 🍁 on November 21, 2012, 08:17:43 PM
I just remembered that the photo of David McGuinty on Wikipedia has me in the background. No idea who took it. You can sort of see my NDP pin.  It was taken at my old high school.


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: DC Al Fine on November 21, 2012, 08:30:42 PM
I just remembered that the photo of David McGuinty on Wikipedia has me in the background. No idea who took it. You can sort of see my NDP pin.  It was taken at my old high school.


Are you the guy in the Nordiques hat?


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: Hatman 🍁 on November 21, 2012, 08:39:29 PM
I just remembered that the photo of David McGuinty on Wikipedia has me in the background. No idea who took it. You can sort of see my NDP pin.  It was taken at my old high school.


Are you the guy in the Nordiques hat?

Yup :D


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: DC Al Fine on November 21, 2012, 08:43:10 PM
I just remembered that the photo of David McGuinty on Wikipedia has me in the background. No idea who took it. You can sort of see my NDP pin.  It was taken at my old high school.


Are you the guy in the Nordiques hat?

Yup :D

Wow that's amazing, way to troll!


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: RogueBeaver on November 21, 2012, 09:22:26 PM
Garneau is the new natural resources critic, at least for now.

Annual parliamentary awards now up.

MP of the Year: Elizabeth May

Speaker of the Year: Bob Rae

Most Collegial: Peter Stoffer

Most Knowledgeable: Stephen Harper

Hardest Worker: Kirsty Duncan

Most Promising: Michelle Rempel


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: RogueBeaver on November 21, 2012, 10:03:32 PM
Tonight's an all-nighter on 3000 Brison amendments- consecutively, no debate. He's one of my favourite MPs, but seriously, 3000 amendments is just douchy.


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: DC Al Fine on November 21, 2012, 10:37:56 PM
Tonight's an all-nighter on 3000 Brison amendments- consecutively, no debate. He's one of my favourite MPs, but seriously, 3000 amendments is just douchy.

I've always wondered if other MP's would sit down and "have a chat" with the people who make them stay up voting Nay all night. After 1000+ amendments, I'd be ready to punch him out no matter what my party affiliation was.


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: RogueBeaver on November 21, 2012, 10:51:30 PM
Or just change the rules so they could be bundled, one up-or-down vote. Applied to all packages of 500+ amendments, give everyone time to read them first.


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: RogueBeaver on November 21, 2012, 11:28:07 PM
More jackassery from the Brothers Ford: "Olivia Chow is no Jack Layton." Ugh.


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: MaxQue on November 22, 2012, 12:22:27 AM
Tonight's an all-nighter on 3000 Brison amendments- consecutively, no debate. He's one of my favourite MPs, but seriously, 3000 amendments is just douchy.

I've always wondered if other MP's would sit down and "have a chat" with the people who make them stay up voting Nay all night. After 1000+ amendments, I'd be ready to punch him out no matter what my party affiliation was.

If I remember well, the Alliance invented that trick (over Indian treaties), so they aren't in a position to complain.


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: Smid on November 22, 2012, 12:52:02 AM
The Canadian Filibuster?


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: MaxQue on November 22, 2012, 01:07:19 AM
Tonight's an all-nighter on 3000 Brison amendments- consecutively, no debate. He's one of my favourite MPs, but seriously, 3000 amendments is just douchy.

I've always wondered if other MP's would sit down and "have a chat" with the people who make them stay up voting Nay all night. After 1000+ amendments, I'd be ready to punch him out no matter what my party affiliation was.

If I remember well, the Alliance invented that trick (over Indian treaties), so they aren't in a position to complain.

It wasn't the Alliance but the Reform Party (the same thing) with 471 amendments, in December 1999.

42 hours of votes to reject them, over the "Nisga'a Final Agreement"


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: Hatman 🍁 on November 22, 2012, 07:29:14 AM
More jackassery from the Brothers Ford: "Olivia Chow is no Jack Layton." Ugh.

lol wut. I've actually heard that Olivia is quite a bit smarter than Jack.


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: Leftbehind on November 22, 2012, 08:38:39 AM
Joe Fontana has been indicted by the RCMP.

http://www.sunnewsnetwork.ca/sunnews/politics/archives/2012/11/20121121-133355.html

LOL at Sun News promoting the EDL on the left of the page.  


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: RogueBeaver on November 22, 2012, 09:03:35 AM
Nanos tracking poll has Tories 34, Grits 29, NDP 27.

http://www.cbc.ca/news/politics/story/2012/11/21/pol-nanos-number-nov21-comptency.html

Sun: Yeah I know, but when I posted they were the only ones with the story...


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: Hatman 🍁 on November 22, 2012, 10:21:49 AM
Nanos tracking poll has Tories 34, Grits 29, NDP 27.

http://www.cbc.ca/news/politics/story/2012/11/21/pol-nanos-number-nov21-comptency.html

Sun: Yeah I know, but when I posted they were the only ones with the story...

Those are decent numbers coming from Nanos.


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: Peter the Lefty on November 22, 2012, 11:57:46 AM
No No No No No NO NO NO NO!  I knew Mulcair was a rotten egg. 
http://www.cbc.ca/news/politics/story/2012/11/15/pol-cp-ndp-trade-policy.html (http://www.cbc.ca/news/politics/story/2012/11/15/pol-cp-ndp-trade-policy.html)


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: MaxQue on November 22, 2012, 12:03:07 PM
No No No No No NO NO NO NO!  I knew Mulcair was a rotten egg. 
http://www.cbc.ca/news/politics/story/2012/11/15/pol-cp-ndp-trade-policy.html (http://www.cbc.ca/news/politics/story/2012/11/15/pol-cp-ndp-trade-policy.html)

??
It's not surprising, free trade is very popular outside of Southern Ontario. Canadian economy is based on natural ressources, not manifacturing, so, free trade is good for Canada, that is not new.

The left being pro-trade isn't new from Mulcair. The votes against free trade was only posturing to please unions, it was obvious since a while.


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: RogueBeaver on November 22, 2012, 12:41:01 PM
Mulcair's position isn't an unpopular one. Whether this translates into yea votes on ratification remains to be seen... there's also the EU FTA coming down the pipeline, which even the PQ supports. All 3 parties are aiming for the centre now.


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: Filuwaúrdjan on November 22, 2012, 03:45:51 PM
In the 1930s few people were as fervent defenders of free trade as Clement Attlee.


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: Smid on November 22, 2012, 06:46:40 PM
Justin Trudeau endorses Thomas Mulcair ahead of all non-Quebec Liberal candidates for leadership.

Quote from: Justin Trudeau
Certainly when we look at the great prime ministers of the 20th century, those that really stood the test of time, they were MPs from Quebec... This country - Canada - it belongs to us.

http://news.nationalpost.com/2012/11/22/justin-trudeau-anti-alberta-tv-interview-puts-dent-in-liberal-leadership-ambitions/


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: RogueBeaver on November 22, 2012, 07:00:24 PM
Manure, meet fan. This ties into the February rant. Should profusely apologize but won't.


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: Poirot on November 22, 2012, 10:42:16 PM
From that same interview, Trudeau demonstrates his stairs tumbling skill. (at the end of the video) I forgot about the Alberta part but remembered the stairs.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=3xyiiR2ZSNs (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=3xyiiR2ZSNs)


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: RogueBeaver on November 23, 2012, 07:59:15 PM
Premiers moving on energy.

http://www.cbc.ca/news/canada/story/2012/11/23/ns-premier-meeting-carney.html


YES- F-35 alternatives being considered! :D

http://news.nationalpost.com/2012/11/23/harper-government-seeking-alternatives-to-troubled-f-35-fighter-jet-sources/

Oh, and Trudeau apologized for that dumbass comment.


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: Holmes on November 24, 2012, 08:45:42 AM
From that same interview, Trudeau demonstrates his stairs tumbling skill. (at the end of the video) I forgot about the Alberta part but remembered the stairs.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=3xyiiR2ZSNs (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=3xyiiR2ZSNs)

His manner of speech and everything he does says attention whore. Maybe he'll do the stairs trick at a debate when the attention isn't on him, or his Alberta bashing is brought up to change the subject.


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: Vote UKIP! on November 24, 2012, 08:35:01 PM
Canada belongs to Quebec?

Good one, JT.


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: HagridOfTheDeep on November 24, 2012, 10:03:31 PM
http://www.youtube.com/watch?feature=player_embedded&v=gp_O3liJpu8

There is no politician I detest more than this man. Holy Hell.


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: Queen Mum Inks.LWC on November 24, 2012, 11:03:21 PM
http://www.youtube.com/watch?feature=player_embedded&v=gp_O3liJpu8

There is no politician I detest more than this man. Holy Hell.

Yeah, he's trying too hard to get himself into the leadership position, and it's clearly showing.  Everything I've seen from Justin Trudeau says that he's in it for his own good.

The Conservatives being able to bring up the anti-Alberta speech plus the Greens and the Liberals splitting votes may be what let's Crockatt sail into a victory.


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: CLARENCE 2015! on November 25, 2012, 10:56:01 AM
http://www.youtube.com/watch?feature=player_embedded&v=gp_O3liJpu8

There is no politician I detest more than this man. Holy Hell.

Yeah, he's trying too hard to get himself into the leadership position, and it's clearly showing.  Everything I've seen from Justin Trudeau says that he's in it for his own good.

The Conservatives being able to bring up the anti-Alberta speech plus the Greens and the Liberals splitting votes may be what let's Crockatt sail into a victory.
His father was bad enough...


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: RogueBeaver on November 25, 2012, 02:11:23 PM
Harper awarded the other Justin (Bieber) a Jubilee Medal for "achievements abroad that bring credit to Canada." LOL. :P

Medicare is apparently more beloved than hockey or the military.

http://www.winnipegfreepress.com/canada/poll-points-to-lagging-support-for-monarchy-and-universal-pride-in-medicare-180752631.html



Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: MaxQue on November 25, 2012, 03:20:54 PM
Does it is a surprise, since Tommy Doublas finished first in that CBC contest?


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: DC Al Fine on November 25, 2012, 05:59:59 PM
Does it is a surprise, since Tommy Doublas finished first in that CBC contest?
Not at all :|


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: Vote UKIP! on November 25, 2012, 10:15:57 PM
Harper awarded the other Justin (Bieber) a Jubilee Medal for "achievements abroad that bring credit to Canada." LOL. :P

What was worse was that JB was in overalls.

After posting the picture on the PM's facebook page, his office quoted Harper as saying that were there roles reversed, Harper would be wearing overalls too.

ugh.


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: DC Al Fine on November 25, 2012, 10:38:16 PM
Harper awarded the other Justin (Bieber) a Jubilee Medal for "achievements abroad that bring credit to Canada." LOL. :P

What was worse was that JB was in overalls.

After posting the picture on the PM's facebook page, his office quoted Harper as saying that were there roles reversed, Harper would be wearing overalls too.

ugh.

Bieber was approaching self-parody with his outfit.


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: RogueBeaver on November 26, 2012, 10:48:31 AM
Rob Ford has been removed from office. How do special elections work in Toronto? Unless Ford appeals...

http://www.cbc.ca/news/canada/toronto/story/2012/11/25/toronto-ford-conflict-case-decision-release.html

Oh, and Carney will move to the Bank of England next year.

http://www.reuters.com/article/2012/11/26/britain-boe-carney-idUSS8E8CB0020121126


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: Hatman 🍁 on November 26, 2012, 11:25:07 AM
It's not like Quebec, council decides whether or not to have a by-election.


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: Hatman 🍁 on November 26, 2012, 11:27:20 AM
London mayor Joe Fontana is facing a vote of non confidence (didn't know mayors could face that).

So, potentially 4 Canadian mayors of 4 major cities gone in scandal in a period of a month.


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: RogueBeaver on November 26, 2012, 11:28:52 AM
It's not like Quebec, council decides whether or not to have a by-election.

How do you think TO will vote?

Fontana: Hopefully they get him out.


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: Hatman 🍁 on November 26, 2012, 12:29:38 PM
It's not like Quebec, council decides whether or not to have a by-election.

How do you think TO will vote?

Fontana: Hopefully they get him out.

I don't know. There's not much precedent for a mayoral by-election. But, we are 2 years away, so I think they should have one.

As for Fontana, apparently non confidence votes don't matter on city councils. He can just go "whatever" and keep running the show.


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: You kip if you want to... on November 26, 2012, 04:11:01 PM
http://www.youtube.com/watch?feature=player_embedded&v=gp_O3liJpu8

There is no politician I detest more than this man. Holy Hell.

Is that real!?

Since when is Justin Trudeau a cast member on The West Wing?


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: Linus Van Pelt on November 26, 2012, 08:05:37 PM
LOL Rob Ford


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: Holmes on November 27, 2012, 08:03:39 AM
Yesterday was a marvelous day. Truly the end of an era of ridicule and embarrassment (alright, I'm from Toronto, there'll never be an end to that). But I truly believe that we can put the Ford years behind us and return to sane and competent municipal gouvernment. No more do I have to turn on the news and watch Ford stumbling over, or saying something embarrassingly stupid, or stalk journalists. Maybe we can have a mayor who doesn't skip town duing Pride and actually attends again! I think Toronto is finally free. We're free.


I do expect the ruling to be appealed and overturned. But this will be such a dark stain on his administration, just like his rule has been a dark stain on Toronto. Fitting.


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: RogueBeaver on November 27, 2012, 03:58:08 PM
*Sigh*

http://www.cbc.ca/news/politics/inside-politics-blog/2012/11/prepare-the-parliamentary-sleeping-bags-for-the-biannual-budget-vote-a-thon.html?utm_source=dlvr.it&utm_medium=twitter


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: DC Al Fine on November 27, 2012, 08:19:39 PM
*Sigh*

http://www.cbc.ca/news/politics/inside-politics-blog/2012/11/prepare-the-parliamentary-sleeping-bags-for-the-biannual-budget-vote-a-thon.html?utm_source=dlvr.it&utm_medium=twitter

Whatever happened to the good old days where the majority government rammed through it's legislation in an hour and everyone went home for steaks?


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: RogueBeaver on November 27, 2012, 08:27:16 PM
My problem isn't with 2 sitting days of debate, but with 3000+ amendments which are essentially trivial rather than substantive, designed to force all-nighters. Even Brison himself tacitly admits this.

Olivia Chow is "considering her role" in TO, but wants to see how the court drama plays out first.


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: RogueBeaver on November 28, 2012, 10:14:38 AM
Tomassi and Beauchamp were named yesterday.

http://www.cbc.ca/news/politics/story/2012/11/28/montreal-charbonneau-guestlist.html


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: MaxQue on November 28, 2012, 10:30:43 AM
Tomassi and Beauchamp were named yesterday.

http://www.cbc.ca/news/politics/story/2012/11/28/montreal-charbonneau-guestlist.html

Conservative senator Léo Housakos got named, too.


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: MaxQue on November 28, 2012, 10:34:21 AM
*Sigh*

http://www.cbc.ca/news/politics/inside-politics-blog/2012/11/prepare-the-parliamentary-sleeping-bags-for-the-biannual-budget-vote-a-thon.html?utm_source=dlvr.it&utm_medium=twitter

Whatever happened to the good old days where the majority government rammed through it's legislation in an hour and everyone went home for steaks?

Again, don't blame Liberals, that tactic was used by Reform Party before.


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: RogueBeaver on November 28, 2012, 10:35:34 AM
Yep.

Maclean's Power Rankings.

http://www2.macleans.ca/2012/11/27/25-most-important-people-in-ottawa/

More cronyism in Alberta.

http://www.cbc.ca/player/News/Politics/ID/2310345475/

Max: The rules should still be changed. Up-or-down votes on blocks of amendments in cases like this.


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: MaxQue on November 28, 2012, 10:46:01 AM
Yep.

Maclean's Power Rankings.

http://www2.macleans.ca/2012/11/27/25-most-important-people-in-ottawa/

More cronyism in Alberta.

http://www.cbc.ca/player/News/Politics/ID/2310345475/

Max: The rules should still be changed. Up-or-down votes on blocks of amendments in cases like this.

Oh, I agree. Role of Parliament is to debate laws, not lose hours voting down very similar amendments.

Let's see. Up-or-down votes on block of amendments, but no more "mammoth" bills?

It's important to remember than Liberals are wanting to make Conservatives lost their time, because Parliament didn't have the time to study the way too big bill which was proposed.

About the power rankings, it's a bit worrying than most of the people on that list are unknown of most people. I suppose than most Tories never heard about those which have links with the party.

Same at NDP. I suppose than most members never heard about Gébert (Well, I did, but he was the president of the NDP group of my university when I joined.).

Those are obscure people. Powerful, but obscure.


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: RogueBeaver on November 28, 2012, 10:59:13 AM
Yeah. Or block out a sitting week or 2 for omnibus bills.

Power ranking: Yeah, quite insidery.


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: Orion0 on November 28, 2012, 04:04:26 PM
Yep.

Maclean's Power Rankings.

http://www2.macleans.ca/2012/11/27/25-most-important-people-in-ottawa/

More cronyism in Alberta.

http://www.cbc.ca/player/News/Politics/ID/2310345475/

Max: The rules should still be changed. Up-or-down votes on blocks of amendments in cases like this.

Power rankings quite interesting indeed. Kenney probably the heir apparent if Harper loses/steps down even if the article suggests he's merely the power broker for any credible successor.

Nothing new in alberta. Say what you will about the wildrose, but they are using their time & political capital wisely to expose the rampant corruption in this dynasty. If the wildrose can perform a little image makeover in the coming years, the NDP can increase their vote share in Edmonton, and the liberals in Calgary (which are all very doable) Redford will be the last of the dynasty. Could turn into an anything but pc election. The growing distaste for the current admin is a force to be reckoned with, and the only thing keeping the PCs looking to be in good shape is the perceived lack of credible options. The Liberals and leftists who banded together to support the pc gov can't be counted on to do the same in the future, and the wildrose-pc split of the right will only continue to grow as more (and oh Lordy are there more) instances of gross misuse and abuse of the system come to light.


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: RogueBeaver on November 28, 2012, 04:23:35 PM
Yeah, Kenney's the heir apparent. If the Reds are smart they run Moore instead of MacKay.

Alberta: There needs to be a tipping point, and so far that hasn't arrived. The national media has also been rather, to be polite, easy on her.


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: Orion0 on November 28, 2012, 04:37:08 PM
Yeah, Kenney's the heir apparent. If the Reds are smart they run Moore instead of MacKay.

Alberta: There needs to be a tipping point, and so far that hasn't arrived. The national media has also been rather, to be polite, easy on her.

The media loves her, she's the epitomy of an eastern-Canada elitist, a mcguinty in lipstick if you will, with all her platitudes of cooperation and a national energy strategy. People of all political stripes are peeved at the growing list of indiscretions coming to light, from young voters duped into voting pc to prevent wildrose, to older voters betrayed by Redfords indiscriminate spending (the return to debt is a giant issue, and if not addressed by the pcs it will haunt them in coming elections, Albertans are proud of the sacrifices made to pay off the debt under Klein). I'd make the argument that the tipping point is fast approaching on the ground here, but it remains that the wildrose is still in growing pains, and the NDP is largely confined to Edmonton, and the liberals Calgary. the reasons to vote against pc are many, but the alternative options are not as attractive as they need to be to win.

I agree Moore is better than mackay, but I think the reds days of power are still a long ways out.


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: RogueBeaver on November 28, 2012, 04:52:23 PM
Agreed on both counts.


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: Holmes on November 28, 2012, 05:11:38 PM
Can MacLeans' use any less flattering pictures? Well, either way, Angus is there, so I'm glad. :)


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: DC Al Fine on November 28, 2012, 06:49:44 PM
Yeah, Kenney's the heir apparent. If the Reds are smart they run Moore instead of MacKay.

Alberta: There needs to be a tipping point, and so far that hasn't arrived. The national media has also been rather, to be polite, easy on her.

So Kenney, Moore and/or MacKay, Bernier will make a run as the libertarian candidate. Anyone else?


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: RogueBeaver on November 28, 2012, 06:57:28 PM
Maybe Ambrose or Aglukkaq.


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: Orion0 on November 28, 2012, 07:02:08 PM

Ambrose is an intellectual lightweight and generally disliked even here in Alberta, but who knows..
Aglukkaq would be a welcome candidate in my opinion, with experience and gravitas.


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: RogueBeaver on November 29, 2012, 10:13:02 AM
Enbridge to reroute east?

http://fullcomment.nationalpost.com/2012/11/28/enbridge-looks-east-for-gateway-alternative/

Old Port Corporation will be dissolved.

http://www.torontosun.com/2012/11/29/tories-to-clean-house-at-old-port-of-montreal-high-rolling-ceo-claude-benoit-on-way-out

Marois loses her first minister.

http://montreal.ctvnews.ca/daniel-breton-resigns-as-environment-minister-1.1058629

As I predicted, no CEGEP-101.

http://blogues.lapresse.ca/gilbertlavoie/2012/11/28/pas-de-loi-101-dans-les-cegeps/


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: RogueBeaver on November 29, 2012, 04:38:41 PM
Thank you Mr. Speaker. :)

http://www.cbc.ca/news/politics/story/2012/11/29/pol-budget-votes-limited-to-47.html


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: Hatman 🍁 on November 29, 2012, 04:44:56 PM
BOO!


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: RogueBeaver on November 30, 2012, 10:14:14 AM
Rob Ford will be allowed to run in a mayoral by-election if one's held.

http://www.thestar.com/news/gta/article/1295629--rob-ford-eligible-to-run-in-by-election

Redford might get a contempt citation.

http://www.calgaryherald.com/news/Braid%2BPremier%2BRedford%2Btroubles%2Bdeepen%2Btobacco%2Bcontract/7630899/story.html


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: Holmes on December 01, 2012, 08:36:21 AM
Why does Speaker Scheer hate democracy?


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: Hatman 🍁 on December 01, 2012, 08:39:30 AM
Why does Speaker Scheer hate democracy?

His partisan affiliation might give you a clue.


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: anvi on December 03, 2012, 11:20:32 AM
I'm confused about the Toronto mayor, Rob Ford.  More specifically, I'm confused by the judges ruling that, on the one hand, his alleged misconduct merits his removal from office, but on the other, the judge's opinion that he would be eligible to run for the office in a special election after that took place.  What's the point of saying someone has disqualified himself to serve in office and then allowing him to run for the same office again immediately after getting kicked out?  Can someone help me here?  Thanks.


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: Orion0 on December 03, 2012, 12:06:45 PM
I'm confused about the Toronto mayor, Rob Ford.  More specifically, I'm confused by the judges ruling that, on the one hand, his alleged misconduct merits his removal from office, but on the other, the judge's opinion that he would be eligible to run for the office in a special election after that took place.  What's the point of saying someone has disqualified himself to serve in office and then allowing him to run for the same office again immediately after getting kicked out?  Can someone help me here?  Thanks.

It's a witch hunt, plain and simple. Ford's opponents have thrown everything at him, hoping for something to stick. They tried election fraud, driving violations, past arrests, and compromised city appointments, all in vain. In this case it's over $3000 give or take that he collected for a football charity. He had a lack of forethought and used official letterhead, and the seal of the city when sending letters asking for donations (for charity, if I might add again). I think anyone looking objectively can see that it was not with malicious or criminal intent that he acted, but quite simply a minor technicality under the letter of the law. There really is nothing contained in the current case that would bar him from office that other allegations should have already proven, but did not.


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: DC Al Fine on December 03, 2012, 12:52:39 PM
I'm confused about the Toronto mayor, Rob Ford.  More specifically, I'm confused by the judges ruling that, on the one hand, his alleged misconduct merits his removal from office, but on the other, the judge's opinion that he would be eligible to run for the office in a special election after that took place.  What's the point of saying someone has disqualified himself to serve in office and then allowing him to run for the same office again immediately after getting kicked out?  Can someone help me here?  Thanks.

Basically, it's a standard case of the law not being logical.


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: Orion0 on December 03, 2012, 06:00:14 PM
Debacle in Alberta continues: speaker prohibits further questions regarding Redfords conflict of interest. Opposition walks out of the legislature in protest. NP article here: http://news.nationalpost.com/2012/12/03/albertas-speaker-shuts-down-opposition-questions-on-redford-conflict-of-interest-controversy/


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: RogueBeaver on December 03, 2012, 06:15:18 PM
Did he rule or not? The article is contradictory on that point. If he didn't, I expect him to rule in her favour. Ugh.

That omnibus will also go through tonight.

That Place projects a comfortable Dipper win in BC, 63-22 in seats.


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: DC Al Fine on December 03, 2012, 09:24:21 PM
Did he rule or not? The article is contradictory on that point. If he didn't, I expect him to rule in her favour. Ugh.

That omnibus will also go through tonight.

That Place projects a comfortable Dipper win in BC, 63-22 in seats.
Why do you dislike The 308?


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: RogueBeaver on December 03, 2012, 09:32:40 PM
I don't, 'tis a running meme based on Hatman and others' dislike of it.

Alberta: He ruled that there was no breach. Even though the documents explicitly state that the decision was made by Redford before she left Justice to run for leadership.

14/12/10: Memo signed by Redford: "best choice for Alberta will be [firm's name]."

11/01/11: Memo to deputy AG: "Shortly before Xmas, Minister Redford selected [firm's name]."

http://fullcomment.nationalpost.com/2012/12/03/dan-arnold-scandal-management-is-not-redfords-strong-point/


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: Hatman 🍁 on December 03, 2012, 11:31:56 PM
Did he rule or not? The article is contradictory on that point. If he didn't, I expect him to rule in her favour. Ugh.

That omnibus will also go through tonight.

That Place projects a comfortable Dipper win in BC, 63-22 in seats.
Why do you dislike The 308?

Eric Grenier is no Nate Silver. He gets way too much attention for a sh** predictor.


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: MaxQue on December 04, 2012, 12:35:38 AM
Did he rule or not? The article is contradictory on that point. If he didn't, I expect him to rule in her favour. Ugh.

That omnibus will also go through tonight.

That Place projects a comfortable Dipper win in BC, 63-22 in seats.
Why do you dislike The 308?

Eric Grenier is no Nate Silver. He gets way too much attention for a sh** predictor.

Well, at least, he is one of the few English writers which actually understand a bit of Quebec politics.


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: RogueBeaver on December 05, 2012, 03:50:54 PM
Not again.

http://www.winnipegfreepress.com/canada/commons-set-to-face-more-complex-abortion-debate-this-time-over-sex-selection-182233201.html

Max: Huh? Grenier's a Francophone and IIRC, a self-admitted BQ supporter.


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: Hatman 🍁 on December 05, 2012, 04:09:58 PM
Not again.

http://www.winnipegfreepress.com/canada/commons-set-to-face-more-complex-abortion-debate-this-time-over-sex-selection-182233201.html

Max: Huh? Grenier's a Francophone and IIRC, a self-admitted BQ supporter.

Is he really? That's hilarious! Wtf does he care about the rest of the country's politics then?

Kinda makes me hate him more.


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: RogueBeaver on December 05, 2012, 04:21:25 PM
Nexen deal deadline will be extended. Come on PM, we know what the decision will be. Yes with conditions.

http://www.cbc.ca/news/canada/toronto/story/2012/12/04/toronto-rob-ford-court-stay-removal-order.html

Ford stays, for a month at least.

http://www.cbc.ca/news/canada/toronto/story/2012/12/04/toronto-rob-ford-court-stay-removal-order.html

Someone in the PMO is being silly.

http://www.hilltimes.com/news/politics/2012/12/05/trudeau-could-be-hauled-before-house-natural-resources-committee-in-february-to/33077


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: MaxQue on December 05, 2012, 04:50:23 PM
Not again.

http://www.winnipegfreepress.com/canada/commons-set-to-face-more-complex-abortion-debate-this-time-over-sex-selection-182233201.html

Max: Huh? Grenier's a Francophone and IIRC, a self-admitted BQ supporter.

I mean than he writes in English, for an English public.


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: Kitteh on December 05, 2012, 05:39:13 PM
Can anybody give me the link to where Grenier says he supports the BQ? I've always been curious what way he leans politically given that he tries almost absurdly hard to be uber-neutral in his 308 posts.


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: Hatman 🍁 on December 05, 2012, 06:22:39 PM
Can anybody give me the link to where Grenier says he supports the BQ? I've always been curious what way he leans politically given that he tries almost absurdly hard to be uber-neutral in his 308 posts.

The only thing he tries absurdly hard at is being terrible at everything.

OK, maybe I'm being a little too harsh on him eh?


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: RogueBeaver on December 05, 2012, 06:31:03 PM
Apparently nasty words and potentially PET salutes were exchanged between Van Loan, Mulcair and Cullen during the QP-GO interlude.

http://www.ctvnews.ca/politics/heated-exchange-between-van-loan-mulcair-in-house-1.1067515

http://www.cbc.ca/news/politics/story/2012/12/05/pol-tempers-flare-omnibus-budget-bill.html


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: Smid on December 05, 2012, 07:14:57 PM
Can anybody give me the link to where Grenier says he supports the BQ? I've always been curious what way he leans politically given that he tries almost absurdly hard to be uber-neutral in his 308 posts.

The only thing he tries absurdly hard at is being terrible at everything.

OK, maybe I'm being a little too harsh on him eh?

You're so nice about everything else that I rather enjoy your OTT fuming at him.


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: MaxQue on December 05, 2012, 07:21:44 PM
Not again.

http://www.winnipegfreepress.com/canada/commons-set-to-face-more-complex-abortion-debate-this-time-over-sex-selection-182233201.html

Max: Huh? Grenier's a Francophone and IIRC, a self-admitted BQ supporter.

For the Bloc thing, that was true around 2008 according to Google. No clue for currently.


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: RogueBeaver on December 05, 2012, 07:28:11 PM
As for #HoCbrawl, I don't mind colourful language so long as it's original. *CoughOzCough*

Grenier: I used to follow Trendlines before it got paywalled. Maybe I should subscribe...


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: RogueBeaver on December 05, 2012, 07:55:08 PM
Bruce Hyer turned up at a Grit Xmas party with Murray (from Twitter). "Progressive who wants inter-progressive cooperation."


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: Hatman 🍁 on December 05, 2012, 07:55:57 PM
Can anybody give me the link to where Grenier says he supports the BQ? I've always been curious what way he leans politically given that he tries almost absurdly hard to be uber-neutral in his 308 posts.

The only thing he tries absurdly hard at is being terrible at everything.

OK, maybe I'm being a little too harsh on him eh?

You're so nice about everything else that I rather enjoy your OTT fuming at him.

Hahaha. I'm not that really nice. But I do find it amusing that you enjoy my fuming. Seems out of your character, but I guess you're quite loyal :)

Bruce Hyer turned up at a Grit Xmas party with Murray (from Twitter). "Progressive who wants inter-progressive cooperation."

If anything, he'd join the Greens.


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: RogueBeaver on December 05, 2012, 07:58:33 PM
If so, probably ends up like the last guy expelled from caucus who became a Green.


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: MaxQue on December 05, 2012, 08:54:38 PM
Bruce Hyer turned up at a Grit Xmas party with Murray (from Twitter). "Progressive who wants inter-progressive cooperation."

He is probably shopping to see which party will offer him the most.


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: RogueBeaver on December 05, 2012, 08:58:44 PM
Hebert pours cold water on the coop idea. Though she doesn't mention the last time that was tried, when May ran against MacKay in '08.

http://www.thestar.com/news/canada/politics/article/1298238--hebert-electoral-reform-not-the-greatest-challenge-facing-canadian-politics


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: Hatman 🍁 on December 05, 2012, 11:53:12 PM
Bruce Hyer turned up at a Grit Xmas party with Murray (from Twitter). "Progressive who wants inter-progressive cooperation."

He is probably shopping to see which party will offer him the most.

Well, he did tell me one of the  (minor) reasons he moved to Canada was his love of Tommy Douglas and Pierre Trudeau. But he doesn't think much of his son.


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: RogueBeaver on December 07, 2012, 11:11:47 AM
F-35 cancelled? Unless this will get denied shortly, much like yesterday's Star report about gun laws.

http://o.canada.com/2012/12/06/1107-col-dentandt/


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: RogueBeaver on December 07, 2012, 05:11:42 PM
Breaking: Nexen and Progress have been approved.


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: RogueBeaver on December 08, 2012, 09:37:20 AM
Rex on HDS.

http://fullcomment.nationalpost.com/2012/12/08/rex-murphy-vilifying-stephen-harper/


I'm with Coyne here.

http://fullcomment.nationalpost.com/2012/12/07/andrew-coyne-stephen-harpers-foreign-takeover-policy-no-longer-just-murky-but-totally-incoherent/

We gotta enjoy this while we can.

http://www.thestar.com/news/canada/politics/article/1299308--hebert-separatist-pq-victory-has-produced-unexpected-boost-for-federalists

Relax, Liberals. For now.

http://www.ledevoir.com/politique/canada/365954/trudeau-sauverait-les-liberaux


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: RogueBeaver on December 10, 2012, 11:03:39 AM
Dwight Duncan might run federally in 2015.

http://www.cbc.ca/news/canada/windsor/story/2012/12/10/wdr-dwight-duncan-federal-election.html

More immigration reform.

http://www.cbc.ca/news/politics/story/2012/12/08/pol-skilled-trades-program-kenney.html

Harper and Mulcair aren't on the best of terms.

http://www.leaderpost.com/business/Harper%2BMulcair%2Bwell/7674363/story.html


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: Simfan34 on December 13, 2012, 12:55:14 PM
China seems to be replacing the US as the main Canada-destroying boogeyman. (http://www.filibustercartoons.com/index.php/2012/12/11/business-deals-harper-style/)

I'm not sure whether to be distressed or encouraged by this. I'm leaning towards the former; we haven't done anything to improve our reputation in Canada, so I think it's more so a reflection of our declining reach. That's particularly distressing considering Canada is right next to us. Of course I think that the whole recalcitrance over Keystone has something to do with it, but if we've stopped sparking paranoia in our immediate neighbours, then we're doing a pretty bad job as a superpower.


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: MaxQue on December 13, 2012, 12:57:32 PM
China seems to be replacing the US as the main Canada-destroying boogeyman. (http://www.filibustercartoons.com/index.php/2012/12/11/business-deals-harper-style/)

I'm not sure whether to be distressed or encouraged by this. I'm leaning towards the former; we haven't done anything to improve our reputation in Canada, so I think it's more so a reflection of our declining reach. That's particularly distressing considering Canada is right next to us. Of course I think that the whole recalcitrance over Keystone has something to do with it, but if we've stopped sparking paranoia in our immediate neighbours, then we're doing a pretty bad job as a superpower.

Well, I'm pretty sure Canadian like more Obama than they like Harper.


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: RogueBeaver on December 16, 2012, 03:56:26 PM
Posted here because Carney's not a pol. 

http://www.theglobeandmail.com/news/politics/how-the-liberal-party-lost-mark-carney/article6414626/?page=all


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: RogueBeaver on December 20, 2012, 05:21:40 PM
Hmm. I'll wait and see.

http://www.thestar.com/news/canada/politics/article/1305137--tim-harper-pierre-poilievre-wants-to-bring-right-to-work-legislation-to-canada

Not a moment too soon.

http://thechronicleherald.ca/novascotia/274542-sea-king-successor-en-route


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: Foucaulf on December 20, 2012, 05:46:17 PM
http://www.theglobeandmail.com/news/politics/how-the-liberal-party-lost-mark-carney/article6414626/?page=all

This is probably the most ridiculous piece of political news all year. Message control is the biggest thing the Liberals can learn from the Conservatives, yet there's always a dozen Liberal politicos lining up to speak. I suppose the forces behind the curtain thinks repeating the Ignatieff experiment, but without the worldliness, is worth a shot; or maybe they should have let Ignatieff act his intelligence instead of proposing five focus-group tested tax cuts through the whole campaign!

http://www.thestar.com/news/canada/politics/article/1305137--tim-harper-pierre-poilievre-wants-to-bring-right-to-work-legislation-to-canada

I haven't paid attention to Poilievre since earlier this month, but he fits the definition of a pest perfectly. The thing is that none of the home team's fans support the pest either unless he makes a hit or scores.

It may be strategic for the Conservatives to brandish the weapon, but who knows what the effects of the legislation will be if it passes? The law concerns Ontario, and the constant labour shortages in Alberta shows that structural economic situations cannot be fixed easily.


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: RogueBeaver on December 20, 2012, 05:54:24 PM
It was a handful of Martinets, nothing too broadly based- most of the establishment from Chretien down is firmly behind JT.

RTW: Hudak's also planning that if he wins a majority. US experience shows the PEUs usually take a huge blow, but our rate of unionization is triple theirs so we'll wait and see. As for Poilievre (who I met a few months ago), even though he overdoes the attack-dog thing on occasion I have hopes he'll see bigger things down the line.


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: Foucaulf on December 20, 2012, 07:03:45 PM
RTW: Hudak's also planning that if he wins a majority. US experience shows the PEUs usually take a huge blow, but our rate of unionization is triple theirs so we'll wait and see. As for Poilievre (who I met a few months ago), even though he overdoes the attack-dog thing on occasion I have hopes he'll see bigger things down the line.

Sorry, I was a bit glib there:

I think were such legislation passed Canadian unions will be crippled by it. Education's the big one, followed by public employers' unions (e.g. Air Canada, bureaucrats), though maybe the steelworkers and the CAW will be more resilient.

The question is whether such legislation can boost economic growth at all. I don't think so if Ontario is going through a structural thing where the manufacturing employees have to go somewhere else. If legislation is passed, then by 2015 the deficit will still be there and the Conservatives' economic credibility will continue to erode. But a lot of this is empty talk because the federal government are responsible for labour law in very few professions; god help us if Hudak's PCs survive longer than one mandate.

Poilievre, at least, is a better thinker than Del Mastro. Harper's economic ministers (Flaherty, Paradis, Raitt, Ambrose) are settled in; maybe he could replace Oliver one day.


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: RogueBeaver on December 23, 2012, 05:04:57 PM
Agreed with Den Tandt: a major shuffle is long overdue. I'd also add Chris Alexander and Shelly Glover to his list of those who need Green Cards and Penashue to the Red Card list. Rajotte can replace Flaherty at Finance when he retires. Glover or Leitch could go to Public Safety if Toews retires. Alexander should but obviously won't replace MacKay at MOD, or maybe slide over into the useless ID portfolio since Fantino is worse than useless IMO.

http://o.canada.com/2012/12/23/1224-col-dentandt/


On QP today Flaherty said the next budget won't be adventurous and he's open to tax reform, though not lowering personal tax rates. :( Plus he's looking outside the Bank for Carney's successor, hinted that he wants to stay till the budget's balanced.


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: Smid on December 23, 2012, 09:23:53 PM
Chris Alexander certainly deserves to be in cabinet.

James Rajotte also deserves a spot there, the only reason he doesn't have a seat at the cabinet table already is because of the number of other Albertans. I really hope he gets elevated, he deserves the role, he was fantastic as Industry Critic prior to the 2006 election.


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: RogueBeaver on December 23, 2012, 09:36:59 PM
Plus the lack of an economic slot available for Rajotte. Alexander's most realistic prospect would be International Development, which should really be folded into Foreign Affairs anyhow IMO. Baird's doing a good job at Foreign Affairs and MacKay will not be moved anytime soon. Heck, he might stay there for the government's duration at this rate.

On the other side Mulcair barely shuffled Layton's Shadow Cabinet so I don't know if he will do anything further. Trudeau will probably keep his party's SC status quo except possibly moving Bob Rae into Foreign Affairs, depending on the timing of Rae's retirement.

Newsmakers of the year: Bieber and Magnotta. Ugh.

http://thestar.blogs.com/politics/2012/12/newsmaker-of-2012-bad-choice.html

http://www.canada.com/entertainment/Justin%2BBieber%2Bnamed%2B2012%2BCanadian%2Bnewsmaker/7738795/story.html


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: DC Al Fine on December 23, 2012, 09:37:33 PM
Penashue is the only Tory MP from Newfoundland, so I think he'll stay on regardless.


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: RogueBeaver on December 23, 2012, 09:44:14 PM
Yeah. He's been a total flop. Proof that resumes don't necessarily equal performance. I'd eventually replace him with Leitch or Aglukkaq, who have the interpersonal skills required for that job.


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: RogueBeaver on December 31, 2012, 11:36:10 PM
Mostly agreed with Wells.

http://www2.macleans.ca/2012/12/31/politics-2013-the-calmer-middle-part/

Hudak interview.

http://www.theglobeandmail.com/news/politics/tim-hudaks-new-persona-combines-smooth-talk-with-stern-measures/article6824753/?cmpid=rss1&utm_source=dlvr.it&utm_medium=twitter


Feelgood story to end the year.

http://www.thestar.com/news/world/article/1309024--afghans-who-helped-canadian-army-adapt-to-life-in-toronto#.UOIuBqyLjbo.twitter

Oh, and Bye Bye is hilarious as usual. :P


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: Hash on January 01, 2013, 10:03:08 AM
God Hudak is such a horrible and sickening piece of crap. God bless our souls if that reactionary moron ever gets his hands on this province.

The Bye-Bye, like for the last 2-3 years, was horrible. Quebec humour (or lack thereof, actually) is pretty awful. If it wasn't for my parents, I'd probably have watched some American show, like the one with Carly Rae Jepsen.


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: RogueBeaver on January 01, 2013, 12:22:55 PM
My early prediction for Ontario: it looks a lot like our recent campaign in Quebec.

Aboriginal issues might loom large this year.

http://aptn.ca/pages/news/2013/01/01/first-nations-chiefs-contemplate-breach-of-treaty-declarations-indefinite-economic-disruptions/

Flaherty's staying.

http://www.thestar.com/news/canada/politics/article/1308867--finance-minister-jim-flaherty-staying-put-until-deficit-erased


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: RogueBeaver on January 04, 2013, 12:20:28 PM
PM will meet First Nations leaders.

http://www.winnipegfreepress.com/canada/canadian-press-newsalert-pm-to-meet-first-nations-leaders-next-friday-185659032.html

Jobless rate on the decline.

http://www.cbc.ca/news/business/story/2013/01/04/business-jobs-canada.html

Angus-Reid pegs an even race: 35C/33N/19L. With Trudeau in the mix, 42L/26C/19N.

http://www.angus-reid.com/polls/48181/conservatives-and-new-democrats-remain-practically-even-in-canada/


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: DC Al Fine on January 04, 2013, 01:22:03 PM
What's everyone's thoughts on how Trudeau will poll once he is actually leader. I think he will do ok, but this Liberal majority nonsense will stop.


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: RogueBeaver on January 04, 2013, 01:30:01 PM
I'd say low 30s max.


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: Hatman 🍁 on January 04, 2013, 01:45:22 PM
PM will meet First Nations leaders.

http://www.winnipegfreepress.com/canada/canadian-press-newsalert-pm-to-meet-first-nations-leaders-next-friday-185659032.html


Excellent news.

Quote

Angus-Reid pegs an even race: 35C/33N/19L. With Trudeau in the mix, 42L/26C/19N.


*face palm* that's an 18-19% swing from the NDP to Liberals.


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: RogueBeaver on January 04, 2013, 02:00:54 PM
Both parties get hit.


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: Benj on January 04, 2013, 02:54:34 PM
What's everyone's thoughts on how Trudeau will poll once he is actually leader. I think he will do ok, but this Liberal majority nonsense will stop.

Presumably at first the Liberals will poll even better than they poll with him as leader now (honeymoon), but the Liberals will then steadily decline as time goes on, possibly precipitously decline if he really messes up. At an actual election, hard to see him doing better than a somewhat-close second, but more likely third, doing worse on seats than votes. Basically the same trajectory CAQ followed.


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: DC Al Fine on January 04, 2013, 04:47:04 PM
PM will meet First Nations leaders.

http://www.winnipegfreepress.com/canada/canadian-press-newsalert-pm-to-meet-first-nations-leaders-next-friday-185659032.html


Excellent news.

Quote

Angus-Reid pegs an even race: 35C/33N/19L. With Trudeau in the mix, 42L/26C/19N.


*face palm* that's an 18-19% swing from the NDP to Liberals.

Actually that's pretty low considering how much of the electorate is anti-Harper and doesn't care which party it takes to get rid of him.


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: Holmes on January 04, 2013, 05:33:12 PM
http://www.theglobeandmail.com/news/politics/olivia-chow-diagnosed-with-viral-infection-that-causes-partial-face-paralysis/article6939315/

:(:(:(:(:(


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: Poirot on January 04, 2013, 07:05:05 PM
I answered that Angus Reid survey two days ago. I am in their web based panel.


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: Hatman 🍁 on January 04, 2013, 07:22:31 PM
I answered that Angus Reid survey two days ago. I am in their web based panel.

I am too; I didn't get that survey though.


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: Hatman 🍁 on January 04, 2013, 07:26:49 PM
http://www.theglobeandmail.com/news/politics/olivia-chow-diagnosed-with-viral-infection-that-causes-partial-face-paralysis/article6939315/

:(:(:(:(:(

Hopefully she'll get better. It doesn't look that bad.


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: Leftbehind on January 04, 2013, 10:30:02 PM
PM will meet First Nations leaders.

http://www.winnipegfreepress.com/canada/canadian-press-newsalert-pm-to-meet-first-nations-leaders-next-friday-185659032.html


Excellent news.

Quote

Angus-Reid pegs an even race: 35C/33N/19L. With Trudeau in the mix, 42L/26C/19N.


*face palm* that's an 18-19% swing from the NDP to Liberals.

Actually that's pretty low considering how much of the electorate is anti-Harper and doesn't care which party it takes to get rid of him.

But those figures seem to suggest Trudeau receives substantial support from people who would otherwise vote Tory as well. Like a Canadian Blair.


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: DC Al Fine on January 05, 2013, 08:49:11 AM
True. I'm somewhat surprised as it seemed that the Tory floor was 30% or so. Obviously that isn't the case.


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: Hatman 🍁 on January 06, 2013, 02:13:59 PM
True. I'm somewhat surprised as it seemed that the Tory floor was 30% or so. Obviously that isn't the case.

It probably still is, actually.


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: DC Al Fine on January 06, 2013, 02:58:25 PM
True. I'm somewhat surprised as it seemed that the Tory floor was 30% or so. Obviously that isn't the case.

It probably still is, actually.

True. I'm pretty sure our "Justin Trudeau is a pretty boy, not a leader" ads should knock 4% off at least :P


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: Hatman 🍁 on January 07, 2013, 03:03:54 PM
Yes, and most of that will come back to the NDP. The Tories are quite useful in scaring would-be Liberal voters in to the NDP camp. Maybe I should donate to them :)


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: RogueBeaver on January 07, 2013, 03:34:59 PM
That Place projects the AR poll as 180 Tories, 112 NDP, 38 Grits, 3 BQ because of a Western sweep. The JT part of the poll is only called a "large majority."


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: DC Al Fine on January 07, 2013, 04:38:53 PM
Yes, and most of that will come back to the NDP. The Tories are quite useful in scaring would-be Liberal voters in to the NDP camp. Maybe I should donate to them :)

I recall a Liberal acquaintance saying the same thing circa 2006 :D


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: Smid on January 07, 2013, 04:42:45 PM
That Place projects the AR poll as 180 Tories, 112 NDP, 38 Grits, 3 BQ because of a Western sweep. The JT part of the poll is only called a "large majority."

The JT part of the poll didn't give regional breakdowns, so difficult to accurately model. My model gave laughable results, as a result.


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: RogueBeaver on January 07, 2013, 08:48:04 PM
Pat Martin close to a settlement?

http://o.canada.com/2013/01/07/outspoken-ndp-mp-pat-martin-close-to-settlement-in-defamation-suit-brought-against-him/

Nothing will come of this.

http://www.cbc.ca/news/canada/edmonton/story/2013/01/07/edmonton-redford-ethics-probe-tobacco.html


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: RogueBeaver on January 15, 2013, 06:39:10 PM
Fantino posted a partisan screed on department website. Reads like Sun or a fundraising letter. It'll be taken down soon, per Twitter, so read it while you can.

http://www.acdi-cida.gc.ca/acdi-cida/ACDI-CIDA.nsf/eng/CEC-111213736-54K

Oh, and here's another one.

http://www.acdi-cida.gc.ca/acdi-cida/ACDI-CIDA.nsf/eng/CEC-11122215-5KZ


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: RogueBeaver on January 19, 2013, 03:24:57 PM
Portrait of the Quebec provincial electorate- no surprises. Older and wealthier people prefer the PLQ, highly educated hipsters QS, etc.

http://www.lapresse.ca/actualites/quebec-canada/politique-quebecoise/201301/18/01-4612896-portrait-robot-des-electeurs-quebecois.php


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: RogueBeaver on January 27, 2013, 05:34:30 PM
100% agreed. Who said majority Parliaments are boring? :P

http://o.canada.com/2013/01/27/1328-col-dentandt/



Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: RogueBeaver on January 28, 2013, 03:19:38 PM
100 most influential people. Bit different than Maclean's power rankings. Haven't heard of the mandarins.

http://www.hilltimes.com/100-most-influential/2013/01/28/this-just-in-those-who-hold-the-real-power-in-ottawa/33511


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: RogueBeaver on January 28, 2013, 04:40:59 PM
Teddy's co-blogger has a great post on "coop."

http://blunt-objects.blogspot.ca/2013/01/i-havent-crunched-numbers-but-i-think.html


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: RogueBeaver on February 06, 2013, 07:18:37 PM
Ivison strongly hints that Flaherty might retire this summer. I guess Rajotte or Menzies would be the logical replacement.

http://fullcomment.nationalpost.com/2013/02/06/john-ivison-jim-flaherty-wants-to-see-balanced-budget-through-to-the-finish-but-will-he/?utm_source=dlvr.it&utm_medium=twitter


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: DC Al Fine on February 06, 2013, 07:28:56 PM
What about moving another big gun into Flaherty's spot instead?


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: RogueBeaver on February 06, 2013, 07:42:56 PM
Who were you thinking of?


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: DC Al Fine on February 06, 2013, 08:00:23 PM
Baird maybe. On second thought your scenario seems more accurate. Kenney's too valuable in Immigration, and I don't think MacKay or Clement in finance would work too well :P


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: Smid on February 06, 2013, 08:15:07 PM
Rajotte would be spectacular in that role. He was an exceptional Industry Critic prior to 2006, and I am keen to see him in Cabinet. One of my favourite MPs.


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: RogueBeaver on February 06, 2013, 08:32:14 PM
More robocall crap, this time relating to the Saskatchewan redistribution. Per Tom Lukiwski Jenni Byrne is the one ultimately responsible. Not a fan, but if we have to do that we should at least ID ourselves.

http://www.canada.com/business/Responsibility+deceptive+Saskatchewan+robocall+rests+with+Jenni/7927408/story.html

Poilievre has another op-ed out on RTW, though he doesn't use that term. Dunno if the bill will ever see the light of day, and if so whether it's a project for this term or the next.

http://opinion.financialpost.com/2013/02/05/unions-ignore-the-rand-formula/

Smid: Agreed.


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: Hatman 🍁 on February 07, 2013, 12:22:41 AM
Im really upset about the Sask robocalls. Tories want US style redistricting?


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: MaxQue on February 07, 2013, 01:30:29 AM
Im really upset about the Sask robocalls. Tories want US style redistricting?

Really, that's more French style (splitting cities and making rurban seats) than American.


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: DC Al Fine on February 07, 2013, 07:07:12 AM
Im really upset about the Sask robocalls. Tories want US style redistricting?

IIRC the rurban seats were an NDP idea. Tories are just taking advantage of it now that they have the advantage.


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: Hatman 🍁 on February 07, 2013, 08:16:36 AM
Im really upset about the Sask robocalls. Tories want US style redistricting?

IIRC the rurban seats were an NDP idea. Tories are just taking advantage of it now that they have the advantage.

True, it was an NDP idea. However, it's still wrong. But, the province is more polarized now than ever, so it's time to stop these rurban seats.


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: DC Al Fine on February 07, 2013, 11:17:49 AM
Im really upset about the Sask robocalls. Tories want US style redistricting?

IIRC the rurban seats were an NDP idea. Tories are just taking advantage of it now that they have the advantage.

True, it was an NDP idea. However, it's still wrong. But, the province is more polarized now than ever, so it's time to stop these rurban seats.

I'm surprised they don't pull a California and set up super safe urban NDP & rural Tory seats. A few of rurban seats are marginal, and it'd be a way for the Tories to cut their potential losses.


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: Hatman 🍁 on February 07, 2013, 12:45:41 PM
Im really upset about the Sask robocalls. Tories want US style redistricting?

IIRC the rurban seats were an NDP idea. Tories are just taking advantage of it now that they have the advantage.

True, it was an NDP idea. However, it's still wrong. But, the province is more polarized now than ever, so it's time to stop these rurban seats.

I'm surprised they don't pull a California and set up super safe urban NDP & rural Tory seats. A few of rurban seats are marginal, and it'd be a way for the Tories to cut their potential losses.

My next blog post will be my proposal that that would create 2 super safe NDP seats (one in Saskatoon and one in Regina) + 2 or 3 rurban riding surrounding them (which would be safe Tory seats, except for Wascana).


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: RogueBeaver on February 07, 2013, 01:07:35 PM
Breaking news: Brazeau is expelled from the Tory caucus and currently in a Gatineau jail after reports of domestic violence at his home. Good riddance.

http://www.cbc.ca/news/politics/story/2013/02/07/pol-brazeau-kicked-out-caucus.html

La Presse is making a BFD about Marois' botched BBC interview and her lack of English proficiency more generally.

http://www.lapresse.ca/debats/chroniques/lysiane-gagnon/201302/06/01-4619023-interpretes-demandes.php


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: RogueBeaver on February 07, 2013, 01:15:37 PM
Ottawa Citizen reporting he hasn't been interviewed or charged yet.


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: RogueBeaver on February 07, 2013, 01:53:26 PM
LeBreton confirms that he's been expelled for that precise reason.


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: RogueBeaver on February 07, 2013, 05:57:02 PM
Bob Rae is retiring this summer.

http://fullcomment.nationalpost.com/2013/02/07/john-ivison-bob-rae-will-retire-this-summer/

New Forum poll.

http://news.nationalpost.com/2013/02/08/liberals-under-justin-trudeau-could-clinch-a-majority-new-poll-shows/?utm_source=dlvr.it&utm_medium=twitter


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: RogueBeaver on February 09, 2013, 10:25:16 AM
New Leger QC poll: comfortable PQ majority, the CAQ keeps on sinking.

http://www.ledevoir.com/politique/quebec/370534/le-gouvernement-marois-s-installe-confortablement


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: MaxQue on February 09, 2013, 04:31:24 PM
Really surprised.


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: RogueBeaver on February 09, 2013, 08:24:25 PM
Marois blasts the PLQ contenders with both barrels. Meanwhile Couillard and Bachand keep clawing each other's eyes out. Then they wonder why they're PNG among Francophones.

http://www.montrealgazette.com/news/Pauline+Marois+says+Quebec+Liberal+leadership+race+snake+swallowing+contest/7943536/story.html

Max: Yeah, the PLQ is a clown car these days.


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: RogueBeaver on February 10, 2013, 09:11:47 PM
Wynne reshuffles her Cabinet.

http://www.thestar.com/news/queenspark/2013/02/10/wynne_makes_charles_sousa_finance_minister_in_cabinet_shuffle.html?utm_source=twitterfeed&utm_medium=twitter

Better appointments and this too shall pass.

http://fullcomment.nationalpost.com/2013/02/10/john-ivison-upper-chamber-is-changing-regardless-of-harpers-senate-reforms/

More bureaucracy? Here's a better idea: replace MacKay with Ambrose.

http://fullcomment.nationalpost.com/2013/02/10/michael-den-tandt-harper-government-considers-new-procurement-agency-to-manage-military-purchases/


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: RogueBeaver on February 11, 2013, 03:30:37 PM
Wynne cabinet sworn in: 27 ministers, 25 backbenchers. The more things change, etc. Deb Matthews as Deep/Health, Glen Murray at Transport, Bob Chiarelli at Energy... meet the new team, same as the old team.


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: RogueBeaver on February 13, 2013, 08:25:45 PM
Excellent feature on the PLQ.

http://www.lactualite.com/print/politique/le-plq-peut-il-rebondir

Ivison: Cabinet shuffle and Permanent Campaign this summer, prorogation & Throne Speech in the fall.

http://fullcomment.nationalpost.com/2013/02/13/john-ivison-stephen-harper-gets-set-to-switch-back-into-constant-campaign-mode-this-summer/


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: Hatman 🍁 on February 15, 2013, 10:28:19 AM
A former NB Liberal cabinet minister defected to the NDP yesterday. He was not a sitting MLA though.


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: RogueBeaver on February 15, 2013, 05:37:35 PM
John Duncan was fired for writing an inappropriate court letter. Moore is acting minister, hopefully Rickford is the permanent replacement.

http://m.theglobeandmail.com/news/politics/aboriginal-affairs-minister-john-duncan-resigns-over-inappropriate-letter/article8733905/?service=mobile

Pupatello mulls punching a federal ticket.

http://blogs.windsorstar.com/2013/02/15/pupatello-snowshoes-and-eye-on-ottawa/


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: RogueBeaver on February 16, 2013, 09:45:43 AM
Parizeau interview.

http://www.journaldemontreal.com/2013/02/15/on-fait-des-colloques-on-consulte-mais-on-ne-decide-pas

Ontario unions worried about Dipper overreach.

http://www.thestar.com/news/queenspark/2013/02/14/labour_leaders_fear_ndpliberal_rivalry_may_spell_tory_triumph_cohn.html


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: MaxQue on February 18, 2013, 10:37:36 AM
Oh, Harper has a new strategy to silence opposition.
Closing down offices in towns where the opposition to him is too vocal, as he just did in Tracadie-Sheila.


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: RogueBeaver on February 18, 2013, 10:50:52 AM
What sort of offices? HRSD?


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: MaxQue on February 18, 2013, 10:52:21 AM

Service Canada.


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: RogueBeaver on February 19, 2013, 12:12:49 PM
Brison sounds the Maritime alarm. Part of the problem is the political knife follows the fiscal knife, so naturally... ugh.

http://www.theglobeandmail.com/news/politics/scott-brisons-plan-to-avoid-a-greek-tragedy-in-maritimes/article8797076/


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: DC Al Fine on February 19, 2013, 12:25:33 PM
Brison sounds the Maritime alarm. Part of the problem is the political knife follows the fiscal knife, so naturally... ugh.

http://www.theglobeandmail.com/news/politics/scott-brisons-plan-to-avoid-a-greek-tragedy-in-maritimes/article8797076/

Brison's right about the fiscal issues the Maritimes faces, but his solutions will do next to nothing. An Atlantic Liquor Commission won't exactly trim $1b off the provincial debts.


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: RogueBeaver on February 19, 2013, 12:37:24 PM
To do that will require a sharp scalpel now, eventually a machete.


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: RogueBeaver on February 19, 2013, 01:31:16 PM
This PLQ race is getting quite nasty: Bachand's daughter can't vote for her father and the Moreau camp tried challenging the credentials of Bachandiste Andree Bourassa. Plus it emerged yesterday that Bachand was a PQ donor until 2002, a year before he first ran for the PLQ. No wonder he gets so outrageously outraged when people question his federalist cred. Also been hearing rumours that this race might be closer than it appears for Couillard, considering the caucus is so badly split endorsements-wise.

http://www.lapresse.ca/actualites/quebec-canada/politique-quebecoise/201302/19/01-4623192-ca-joue-dur-dans-les-assemblees-du-plq.php


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: RogueBeaver on February 19, 2013, 05:28:09 PM
Ontario Dippers will support the Throne Speech as expected. Sid Ryan & Co. also want the NDP to keep the Rorange alliance going.



Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: MaxQue on February 19, 2013, 06:52:42 PM
This PLQ race is getting quite nasty: Bachand's daughter can't vote for her father and the Moreau camp tried challenging the credentials of Bachandiste Andree Bourassa. Plus it emerged yesterday that Bachand was a PQ donor until 2002, a year before he first ran for the PLQ. No wonder he gets so outrageously outraged when people question his federalist cred. Also been hearing rumours that this race might be closer than it appears for Couillard, considering the caucus is so badly split endorsements-wise.

http://www.lapresse.ca/actualites/quebec-canada/politique-quebecoise/201302/19/01-4623192-ca-joue-dur-dans-les-assemblees-du-plq.php

Bachand first ran in 2005 Outremont by-election, to replace Yves Séguin, no?


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: RogueBeaver on February 19, 2013, 07:13:04 PM
Oops- yeah, 2005. Though not a Pelquiste I'd be happy with either Couillard or Moreau as leader. They should be aiming for a 2-cycle recovery.

Since this is a delegated convention I'd be skeptical of public polls, but Couillard led 43-14-8 in the last Leger poll of Pelquiste supporters. Meanwhile the caucus is split with 13 Couillard, 13 Moreau, 10 Bachand.


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: MaxQue on February 19, 2013, 09:28:38 PM
I worry about Moreau. He is the guy which compared Mario Dumont to Jean-Marie Le Pen and which wanted to fire all the employees of the government (and especially the jurists) which took parts in protests against hike or Bill 78, as they were disloyal to their employer.


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: RogueBeaver on February 19, 2013, 09:56:35 PM
While Le Pen is overboard, that whole 2007 campaign was pretty awful and Dumont was the worst. Otherwise I don't know much about him. Often painted as a rising star of sorts but I get vaguely bad vibes about his political horsepower. Couillard's a proven quantity but the Pelquistes are deluding themselves if they think he's an automatic ticket to power next time, especially since CEIC will probably Gomery them to some extent and further worsen their already guttural standing among Francophones.


Gene Whelan has died at 88. RIP. :(

http://blogs.windsorstar.com/2013/02/19/senator-eugene-whelan/


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: RogueBeaver on February 20, 2013, 05:59:29 PM
Rae now sending mixed signals: he'll stay as an MP and saying he has 2 years to decide about 2015. Ivison is usually spot-on with his scoops, plus it seems more plausible that Rae retires rather than stick around. Mission accomplished unless he wants to remain a frontbench critic, say Foreign Affairs, for the next 2 years.

http://www.capebretonpost.com/News/Local/2013-02-19/article-3180711/Grits-don%26rsquot-have-to-worry-about-%26lsquocrazy-uncle%26rsquo-Bob/1


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: RogueBeaver on February 20, 2013, 08:47:34 PM
BC, please give these pathetic desperadoes the thumping they need and deserve.

http://www.theglobeandmail.com/report-on-business/economy/bc-budget-reveals-a-governments-last-gasp/article8904005/


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: DC Al Fine on February 20, 2013, 09:06:26 PM
BC, please give these pathetic desperadoes the thumping they need and deserve.

http://www.theglobeandmail.com/report-on-business/economy/bc-budget-reveals-a-governments-last-gasp/article8904005/

Here's hoping Cummins steals a great deal of seats from the Grits. Clark needs to go.


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: RogueBeaver on February 20, 2013, 09:16:59 PM
Not happening. BCCP is also a joke.

Also, more godawfulness from the vile Prog regime in Edmonton. Those guys need to be Kim Campbelled.

http://fullcomment.nationalpost.com/2013/02/20/jen-gerson-alberta-canadas-poor-little-rich-province/


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: DC Al Fine on February 20, 2013, 10:53:10 PM
Not happening. BCCP is also a joke.

Also, more godawfulness from the vile Prog regime in Edmonton. Those guys need to be Kim Campbelled.

http://fullcomment.nationalpost.com/2013/02/20/jen-gerson-alberta-canadas-poor-little-rich-province/

I'm not looking for the BCCP to win, just cost the Liberals enough votes to lose seats.

On another note, if you can't balance the budget in Alberta, you really shouldn't be a respectable candidate for school board, much less mayor.


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: MaxQue on February 22, 2013, 01:49:09 PM
Small ministerial shakeover in Ottawa, to replace John Duncan, former minister for Aboriginal Affairs and Northern Development, which resigned last week.

He will be replaced by Bernard Valcourt (Madawaska-Restigouche, NB), which is currently Associate Minister for Defence and Minister of State to Francophonie and to the Atlantic Canada Opportinuities Agency.

He will be replaced at the Atlantic Canada Opportinuities Agency by Gail Shea (Egmont, PEI), which is also National Revenue Minister.

He will be replaced at Francophonie by Steven Blaney (Lévis-Bellechasse, QC), which is also minister of Veteran Affairs.

For Associate Minister for Defence, he will be replaced by Kerry-Lynne Findlay (Delta-Richmond East, BC), which was the parlimentary secretary of the Justice minister.


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: Hatman 🍁 on February 22, 2013, 03:52:32 PM
Is there a reason why no federal government has ever had an actual aboriginal be Minister of Aboriginal Affairs? It's not like Harper doesn't have anyone to chose from. There might even be some native Tory senators whose names are not Brazeau.


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: MaxQue on February 22, 2013, 04:00:04 PM
Is there a reason why no federal government has ever had an actual aboriginal be Minister of Aboriginal Affairs? It's not like Harper doesn't have anyone to chose from. There might even be some native Tory senators whose names are not Brazeau.

Did a province ever did, anyways?


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: RogueBeaver on February 22, 2013, 04:10:48 PM
Forum Ontario polls incoming: 36 PC, 29 OLP, 28 NDP.

http://www.thestar.com/news/queenspark/2013/02/22/poll_suggests_hudak_tories_could_win_minority_but_wynne_has_pulled_liberals_out_of_tailspin.html

http://www.thestar.com/news/canada/2013/02/22/justin_trudeau_could_help_liberals_regain_ontario_poll.html

Moreau: We gotta listen to Anglos.

http://www.montrealgazette.com/life/Moreau+likes+chances+Liberal+race/7999118/story.html


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: Hash on February 22, 2013, 05:05:15 PM
Is there a reason why no federal government has ever had an actual aboriginal be Minister of Aboriginal Affairs? It's not like Harper doesn't have anyone to chose from. There might even be some native Tory senators whose names are not Brazeau.

Leona Aglukkaq might be a good choice for AANDC, given that unlike most of the caucus she's actually talented and competent. I think she's overdue for a promotion to something better than health (where she's done good but it's not a big portfolio federally). Peter Penashue would have been a good choice in the past obviously, but he's damaged goods now.


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: Hatman 🍁 on February 22, 2013, 07:11:18 PM
Is there a reason why no federal government has ever had an actual aboriginal be Minister of Aboriginal Affairs? It's not like Harper doesn't have anyone to chose from. There might even be some native Tory senators whose names are not Brazeau.

Leona Aglukkaq might be a good choice for AANDC, given that unlike most of the caucus she's actually talented and competent. I think she's overdue for a promotion to something better than health (where she's done good but it's not a big portfolio federally). Peter Penashue would have been a good choice in the past obviously, but he's damaged goods now.

It would be a demotion of Aglukkaq; Isn't Bruinooge Metis or something?

Maybe one reason no govt has made an aboriginal in charge of that dept is because of a fear they may favour one tribe over another? We all know how Aboriginal voting patterns are.


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: RogueBeaver on February 22, 2013, 07:15:05 PM
The other aboriginal star is Metis Shelly Glover, but she'd be a much better fit for Public Safety.


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: RogueBeaver on February 23, 2013, 12:35:31 AM
PLQ update: Couillard will obviously win on the first ballot, no one's sure who places second. Ridings left in the selection process favour Bachand though. Eerily similar to their last convention 30 (summarizes them in a single number, n'est ce pas?) years ago, when Paradis edged out Johnson for 2nd in an upset. I hope Moreau places second. Should also be interesting to see how Couillard interacts with the federal parties. And of course how he gets back in the Assembly.

http://www.lapresse.ca/actualites/quebec-canada/politique-quebecoise/201302/22/01-4624644-plq-couillard-devrait-lemporter-des-le-premier-tour.php



Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: MaxQue on February 24, 2013, 04:12:23 PM
In Quebec, Green party leader resigned during the party convention, a few hours before the result of the leadership review were to be announced.

He said he will perhaps run in the leadership race to succeed himself.

As usual, Quebec Green Party is being a joke.


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: MaxQue on February 28, 2013, 11:52:48 AM
NDP loses another MP in Quebec, Claude Patry, MP for Jonquière-Alma joins Bloc.

He cites the position of the NDP of Clarity Law and the NDP support to the Muskrat Falls project as his reasons.


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: RogueBeaver on February 28, 2013, 12:02:18 PM
Then there's Tom Flanagan's Akinesque musings on child porn yesterday. (NSFW) PMO has already repudiated them as "repugnant, ignorant and appalling." Hear hear.

http://o.canada.com/2013/02/28/tom-flanagan-is-okay-with-child-pornography/

Tom Mulcair will be holding a House foyer presser in 15 minutes. Dunno if Patry's the issue he wants to talk about.


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: RogueBeaver on February 28, 2013, 12:15:33 PM
Danielle Smith has also repudiated him. WTF was he thinking? Waiting for CBC to comment, though they might just suspend him.

http://www.wildrose.ca/feature/wildrose-leader-smith-condemns-flanagans-child-porn-remarks/


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: RogueBeaver on February 28, 2013, 12:32:45 PM
Mulcair: We'll take that riding if Patry runs as a Dipper. PM now referring to NDP as Bloc Orange.


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: Hatman 🍁 on February 28, 2013, 01:02:12 PM
Ugh. Good riddance, I suppose.


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: RogueBeaver on February 28, 2013, 01:21:47 PM
Might not be the last either.

On another note, Flanagan is still speaking at the Manning Conference. CBC has just terminated him.

Another Manning speaker: John Howard. Awesome. :D


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: MaxQue on February 28, 2013, 01:28:55 PM
Perhaps he is upset at redistricting. Him and the Chicoutimi-Le Fjord MP would live in the same riding, now and the party would give a preference to the other one?


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: RogueBeaver on February 28, 2013, 01:33:29 PM
I'll take him at his word.

Flanagan is not speaking at Manning either.


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: RogueBeaver on February 28, 2013, 01:54:32 PM
UC condemns the comment but notes Flanagan's been on research leave since January.


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: True Federalist (진정한 연방 주의자) on February 28, 2013, 02:40:02 PM
To be as fair as possible to Tom, there is nothing intrinsically wrong with looking at such images per se, the wrong is in the manner in which they are produced. It is to prevent the production of the images that for quite justified reasons the possession and distribution of them is severely punished by the law. That Tom didn't comprehend that indicates he's an idiot.


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: RogueBeaver on February 28, 2013, 02:40:44 PM
Flanagan puts out an apology. Kinda late.

http://www.cbc.ca/news/politics/inside-politics-blog/2013/02/flanagan-out-as-cbc-commentator-following-child-porn-comments.html


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: Hatman 🍁 on February 28, 2013, 03:26:50 PM
Perhaps he is upset at redistricting. Him and the Chicoutimi-Le Fjord MP would live in the same riding, now and the party would give a preference to the other one?

Redistricting wont be an issue for a while now, methinks. But we could see some interesting things happening. I can't recall a time where 2 sitting federal NDP MPs had to run against each other for a nomination before.


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: Smid on February 28, 2013, 03:41:45 PM
Perhaps he is upset at redistricting. Him and the Chicoutimi-Le Fjord MP would live in the same riding, now and the party would give a preference to the other one?

Redistricting wont be an issue for a while now, methinks. But we could see some interesting things happening. I can't recall a time where 2 sitting federal NDP MPs had to run against each other for a nomination before.


Does Canada have a residential requirement for MPs? Over here, they would probably run in their redistributed riding (unless it had been adversely affected by the redistribution) and may or not move house after. I knew someone who moved house because he insisted on living in his electorate, and I know of another MP who, at retirement, lived 40km outside his electorate because he didn't move during his career, and successive redistributions kept moving his boundary further and further away (when he started, he lived in the centre of his electorate, or thereabouts). Labor MPs in safe Labor seats generally don't want to live in their electorates, since safe Labor areas tend to be less desirable neighbourhoods.

Anyway, I think it should be up to the voters. I think a local will best represent local interests, but it's like any other policy position - the voters can decide what matters to them and make up their own mind about who should represent them in Parliament.


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: Benj on February 28, 2013, 04:01:07 PM
Perhaps he is upset at redistricting. Him and the Chicoutimi-Le Fjord MP would live in the same riding, now and the party would give a preference to the other one?

Redistricting wont be an issue for a while now, methinks. But we could see some interesting things happening. I can't recall a time where 2 sitting federal NDP MPs had to run against each other for a nomination before.


Does Canada have a residential requirement for MPs? Over here, they would probably run in their redistributed riding (unless it had been adversely affected by the redistribution) and may or not move house after. I knew someone who moved house because he insisted on living in his electorate, and I know of another MP who, at retirement, lived 40km outside his electorate because he didn't move during his career, and successive redistributions kept moving his boundary further and further away (when he started, he lived in the centre of his electorate, or thereabouts). Labor MPs in safe Labor seats generally don't want to live in their electorates, since safe Labor areas tend to be less desirable neighbourhoods.

Anyway, I think it should be up to the voters. I think a local will best represent local interests, but it's like any other policy position - the voters can decide what matters to them and make up their own mind about who should represent them in Parliament.

Canada does not have a residency requirement. As an example, Jack Layton and Olivia Chow lived together (in Trinity-Spadina, I believe) and represented separate ridings.


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: Hatman 🍁 on February 28, 2013, 04:43:41 PM
I think there should be residency requirements, or at the very least voters should know where candidates live (not the exact address, but which district at least) on the ballot. If we are going to have a FPTP system or even an AV system, then geography matters more, and why both drawing boundaries if candidates are just going to get parachuted in?

Smid's point about ALP MPs not living in their districts kind of angers me...


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: RogueBeaver on February 28, 2013, 04:47:42 PM
If you're close enough that's fine with me- say different Montreal/QC ridings while living in another part of the city. Live as close as possible. Otherwise let constituents decide whether they like it or not.


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: MaxQue on February 28, 2013, 05:19:39 PM
Perhaps he is upset at redistricting. Him and the Chicoutimi-Le Fjord MP would live in the same riding, now and the party would give a preference to the other one?

Redistricting wont be an issue for a while now, methinks. But we could see some interesting things happening. I can't recall a time where 2 sitting federal NDP MPs had to run against each other for a nomination before.


Well, if they are smart enough, that shouldn't happen, since Quebec gained 3 seats, but, we never know if some seats are dreadful for the NDP, the incumbent may try to move.

No problem in Saguenay,, through, there is only one NDP MP there, now (Patry defected and the other MP is a Cabinet Minister, so, Conservative, Denis Lebel.)


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: Smid on February 28, 2013, 05:30:55 PM
I think there should be residency requirements, or at the very least voters should know where candidates live (not the exact address, but which district at least) on the ballot. If we are going to have a FPTP system or even an AV system, then geography matters more, and why both drawing boundaries if candidates are just going to get parachuted in?

Smid's point about ALP MPs not living in their districts kind of angers me...

I'm sorry about my comment  I didn't mean to cause offence. I agree it is an important issue in a geographic based electorate. I perhaps shouldn't have mentioned the partisan aspect, but it is far more prevalent on the other side of politics.


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: Filuwaúrdjan on February 28, 2013, 05:45:51 PM
Harold Wilson lived in Hampstead Garden Suburb (a very affluent inner suburb between Finchley and Hampstead proper) rather than the proletarian Liverpool 'burbs he represented. His constituents loved him (there is, or at least was, a pub in his old constituency called 'The Pipe and Gannex') and it'd be hard to seriously argue that he didn't try to look out for their interests during his career.


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: RogueBeaver on February 28, 2013, 06:14:55 PM
Flanagan is retiring from UC at the end of June when his leave ends. So that's that.

Which was apparently planned back in January.


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: RogueBeaver on February 28, 2013, 09:49:19 PM
Christy Clark's "Very Ethnic" strategy blows up in her face. Apparently it was a heated Cabinet discussion and she didn't want to apologize.

http://www.radio-canada.ca/regions/colombie-britannique/2013/02/28/005-excuses-vote-ethnique-christy-clark.shtml?utm_source=dlvr.it&utm_medium=twitter


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: Hatman 🍁 on March 01, 2013, 09:09:51 AM
I think there should be residency requirements, or at the very least voters should know where candidates live (not the exact address, but which district at least) on the ballot. If we are going to have a FPTP system or even an AV system, then geography matters more, and why both drawing boundaries if candidates are just going to get parachuted in?

Smid's point about ALP MPs not living in their districts kind of angers me...

I'm sorry about my comment  I didn't mean to cause offence. I agree it is an important issue in a geographic based electorate. I perhaps shouldn't have mentioned the partisan aspect, but it is far more prevalent on the other side of politics.

I'm not angry at you, I'm angry at those ALP members!

I'm not as partisan as you think, Smid ;)


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: RogueBeaver on March 01, 2013, 12:36:42 PM
Horwath explicitly said she's willing to trigger an election if her budget demands aren't met. Probably some sort of fudgy compromise IMO.


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: RogueBeaver on March 01, 2013, 09:38:27 PM
More fallout from Very Ethnic, BC Edition: constituency association presidents are also quitting. Dix will have 2 terms guaranteed.


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: RogueBeaver on March 03, 2013, 08:54:34 AM
Christy Clark has to face down a party revolt this afternoon. Even speculation they'll oust her, though I'll doubt that. Though being compared to Vander Zalm... ouch. Mega ouch.

http://www.winnipegfreepress.com/canada/scandal-plagued-bc-premier-christy-clark-calls-emergency-cabinet-meeting--194603861.html

http://www.cknw.com/news/vancouver/story.aspx/story.aspx?ID=1902292


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: Talleyrand on March 03, 2013, 12:19:20 PM
They have pretty much nothing to lose at this point, so perhaps an ouster wouldn't be that horrid (although it must be pointed out that now it looks like they'll maintain 15-25 seats instead 5-10, as it had looked like they would at some points last year). However, my understanding for the poll "improvement" was that it was the result of the BC provincial Conservatives imploding, so it probably doesn't mean that much regardless.

Were she to somehow resign as leader, who would be waiting in the wings to replace her?


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: RogueBeaver on March 03, 2013, 12:49:10 PM
Craig Oliver confirmed that there is a coup attempt underway on QP about half an hour ago. Cabinet meets at 4 Eastern, then she has to face her caucus and the Legislature tomorrow. Remember that things are a knife-edge there too... they're down to 45-36-4 (started at 49-35) in the Legislature. If a few Lib backbenchers decide to go nuclear and vote against their party on confidence- a la Diefenbaker '63- then they can be defeated on the floor. Probably try more conventional means first. This stuff violates the Public Service Act and civil service rules about using government resources for party purposes.

One name mentioned is George Abbott, the 3rd-place finisher from 2011. Most of the big names are bailing out. Dunno if he'd accept though.


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: RogueBeaver on March 03, 2013, 03:31:23 PM
Breaking: Cabinet expected to vote non-confidence in Clark. Just like Dief half a century ago. If they do then she'll be out if they can find a replacement.


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: You kip if you want to... on March 03, 2013, 07:45:20 PM
Breaking: Cabinet expected to vote non-confidence in Clark. Just like Dief half a century ago. If they do then she'll be out if they can find a replacement.

Why not just call a snap election to save the party the bother of a convention?


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: RogueBeaver on March 03, 2013, 07:58:52 PM
The legislature will be dissolved in a few weeks for a May 14 election.

As for tonight's Cabinet meeting: it started 45 minutes ago. Mixed reports on what will happen but my gut tells me she'll stay. Tomorrow it's caucus and legislature- they might have a different view. Will last for a few hours and then she'll meet the press. My guess is that they'll exact a pound of flesh and leave it there.

Things will be easier when they comb through the post-electoral wreckage since Clark will lose her highly marginal seat and most of the would-be leaders are retiring rather than be personally defeated.


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: RogueBeaver on March 03, 2013, 09:42:50 PM
Meeting just ended. God knows what was said in there- they're still planning on executing one of the items on that agenda, namely apologizing for the Chinese head tax! Tone-deaf doesn't begin to describe this...



Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: 2952-0-0 on March 04, 2013, 02:45:29 AM
Maybe Clark actually doesn't want her job and is looking for the most elaborate way to get out of it.


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: Queen Mum Inks.LWC on March 05, 2013, 07:40:14 AM
Perhaps he is upset at redistricting. Him and the Chicoutimi-Le Fjord MP would live in the same riding, now and the party would give a preference to the other one?

Redistricting wont be an issue for a while now, methinks. But we could see some interesting things happening. I can't recall a time where 2 sitting federal NDP MPs had to run against each other for a nomination before.


Does Canada have a residential requirement for MPs? Over here, they would probably run in their redistributed riding (unless it had been adversely affected by the redistribution) and may or not move house after. I knew someone who moved house because he insisted on living in his electorate, and I know of another MP who, at retirement, lived 40km outside his electorate because he didn't move during his career, and successive redistributions kept moving his boundary further and further away (when he started, he lived in the centre of his electorate, or thereabouts). Labor MPs in safe Labor seats generally don't want to live in their electorates, since safe Labor areas tend to be less desirable neighbourhoods.

Anyway, I think it should be up to the voters. I think a local will best represent local interests, but it's like any other policy position - the voters can decide what matters to them and make up their own mind about who should represent them in Parliament.

Canada does not have a residency requirement. As an example, Jack Layton and Olivia Chow lived together (in Trinity-Spadina, I believe) and represented separate ridings.

Yeah, and that's part of why it's almost necessary to not have a residency requirement.  The way the leadership system works for the parties, some of the parties would really suffer if they couldn't try to get their leader elected in a by-election unless it was in the leader's home riding.


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: RogueBeaver on March 05, 2013, 10:51:20 PM
Did anyone see the hilarious mudslinging contest between Lilley and McGregor on Twitter? McGregor won hands-down.


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: Hatman 🍁 on March 06, 2013, 01:41:30 PM
NDP in 2nd place.... in PEI!!! http://cra.ca/wp-content/uploads/2013/03/13-1-PE-Political-Press-Release1.pdf


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: DC Al Fine on March 06, 2013, 08:30:34 PM
NDP in 2nd place.... in PEI!!! http://cra.ca/wp-content/uploads/2013/03/13-1-PE-Political-Press-Release1.pdf

...dafuq?

Rogue poll or perhaps something big is starting on the island...


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: Hatman 🍁 on March 06, 2013, 11:57:40 PM
RIP Stompin' Tom.  I haven't been this sad about someone dying since Jack Layton died.  :'(


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: Benj on March 07, 2013, 12:58:25 PM
NDP in 2nd place.... in PEI!!! http://cra.ca/wp-content/uploads/2013/03/13-1-PE-Political-Press-Release1.pdf

...dafuq?

Rogue poll or perhaps something big is starting on the island...

If you believe their polling, the NDP has been steadily gaining over the past year (their results go 11-18-18-22-26, Feb-May-Aug-Nov-Feb, for the NDP). 26% (and 16% for the PCs) may be an outlier, but they definitely seem to have gained considerable ground.

The PCs are between leaders at the moment, though. Who knows what will happen when they get a new leader.


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: You kip if you want to... on March 07, 2013, 02:34:31 PM
NDP in 2nd place.... in PEI!!! http://cra.ca/wp-content/uploads/2013/03/13-1-PE-Political-Press-Release1.pdf

...dafuq?

Rogue poll or perhaps something big is starting on the island...

If you believe their polling, the NDP has been steadily gaining over the past year (their results go 11-18-18-22-26, Feb-May-Aug-Nov-Feb, for the NDP). 26% (and 16% for the PCs) may be an outlier, but they definitely seem to have gained considerable ground.

The PCs are between leaders at the moment, though. Who knows what will happen when they get a new leader.

I wish our devolved politics was as unpredictable :(


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: Hash on March 07, 2013, 02:37:12 PM
NDP in 2nd place.... in PEI!!! http://cra.ca/wp-content/uploads/2013/03/13-1-PE-Political-Press-Release1.pdf

...dafuq?

Rogue poll or perhaps something big is starting on the island...

If you believe their polling, the NDP has been steadily gaining over the past year (their results go 11-18-18-22-26, Feb-May-Aug-Nov-Feb, for the NDP). 26% (and 16% for the PCs) may be an outlier, but they definitely seem to have gained considerable ground.

The PCs are between leaders at the moment, though. Who knows what will happen when they get a new leader.

The PCs have been in a massive clusterfark for the last month or so, basically with their leader not being Leader of the Opposition at the same time and the dude who is Leader of the Opposition not recognizing the dude who is party leader. Shouldn't be surprising that they've sunk so low (16% in this poll btw, against 26% for the NDP and 51% for the Liberals who are having a field day).

So unprecedented leadership drama/bitching in addition to the PEI PCs being a useless Moderate Hero party...


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: Hatman 🍁 on March 07, 2013, 02:45:31 PM
Something you have to remember, PEI is ridiculously tiny.


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: Smid on March 07, 2013, 03:27:33 PM
So unprecedented leadership drama/bitching in addition to the PEI PCs being a useless Moderate Hero party...

You'd think they'd have learnt from the federal Liberal experience that this approach doesn't work...


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: True Federalist (진정한 연방 주의자) on March 07, 2013, 03:39:23 PM
So unprecedented leadership drama/bitching in addition to the PEI PCs being a useless Moderate Hero party...

You'd think they'd have learnt from the federal Liberal experience that this approach doesn't work...

I'd think the experience of the federal Progressive Conservatives would be more to the point.


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: RogueBeaver on March 07, 2013, 03:53:57 PM
A lot of confusion regarding Sen. Boisvenu (C-QC) these days. He's broken off an affair with his assistant but no one knows her employment status ATM.

http://news.nationalpost.com/2013/03/07/conservative-senator-now-without-executive-assistant-and-girlfriend-as-controversy-swirls-around-office/

Yeah Coyne, we know Harper's inconsistent on jurisdictional boundaries as on many other things.

http://fullcomment.nationalpost.com/2013/03/06/andrew-coyne-stephen-harpers-logical-federalism-proof-he-is-no-fervent-decentralist/


Quebec's undertaking a miniature version of Harper's EI reform. We're talking $20 million, a drop in the budgetary bucket, but interesting nonetheless. Pratte notes the similarities and is not happy.

http://www.lapresse.ca/actualites/quebec-canada/politique-quebecoise/201303/07/01-4628732-aide-sociale-le-pq-fait-ce-quil-denoncait-en-2010.php

http://www.lapresse.ca/debats/editoriaux/andre-pratte/201303/06/01-4628480-une-reforme-mal-menee.php


Moderate Heroism: All 3 parties are on the left or right side of mushy centre these days,  we discussed this a few pages back. Though I am eager to see how the NDP deals with the EU trade deal.


Quebec is ending mandatory intensive English for Grades 5 and 6, now optional. Expect the usual suspects on both sides to start mouth breathing. I think both systems could benefit from second-language courses in the other language if there's demand for it. More cross-cultural contact the better.

http://www.lapresse.ca/actualites/quebec-canada/education/201303/07/01-4628673-les-cours-intensifs-danglais-desormais-facultatifs-au-primaire.php


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: Hatman 🍁 on March 07, 2013, 05:33:58 PM
NDP sings a tribute to Stompin' Tom

http://www2.macleans.ca/2013/03/07/the-ndp-does-bud-the-spud/

Don't know if Tom was an NDPer, but it makes sense for the NDP to pay tribute to a true Canadian artist...


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: RogueBeaver on March 08, 2013, 10:55:42 AM
Alberta's definitely gone downhill since Ralph left.

http://fullcomment.nationalpost.com/2013/03/08/kelly-mcparland-post-ralph-alberta-has-wasted-his-legacy-and-dived-back-into-debt/?utm_source=dlvr.it&utm_medium=twitter


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: RogueBeaver on March 11, 2013, 09:52:48 PM
Ed Komarkicki (C-SK) will retire at the end of this Parliament.

http://www.estevanmercury.ca/article/20130306/ESTMERCURY0101/130309970/-1/estmercury/souris-moose-mountain-mp-komarnicki-will-not-seek-re-election-in-2015


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: Smid on March 11, 2013, 10:31:44 PM
Ed Komarkicki (C-SK) will retire at the end of this Parliament.

http://www.estevanmercury.ca/article/20130306/ESTMERCURY0101/130309970/-1/estmercury/souris-moose-mountain-mp-komarnicki-will-not-seek-re-election-in-2015

Redistribution reduces Conservative seats in Saskatchewan, his retirement potentially allows someone losing a seat to shuffle over?


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: MaxQue on March 11, 2013, 11:11:27 PM
Ed Komarkicki (C-SK) will retire at the end of this Parliament.

http://www.estevanmercury.ca/article/20130306/ESTMERCURY0101/130309970/-1/estmercury/souris-moose-mountain-mp-komarnicki-will-not-seek-re-election-in-2015

Redistribution reduces Conservative seats in Saskatchewan, his retirement potentially allows someone losing a seat to shuffle over?

The seat is in a corner of the province and only significantly expand in Wascana, which is Liberal-held, so, any move would be saw as carpetbagging, doubt it.


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: DC Al Fine on March 13, 2013, 03:51:06 PM
Garneau`s out. Wonder what cabinet spot he got promised.

http://news.nationalpost.com/2013/03/13/marc-garneau-dropping-out-of-liberal-leadership-race/ (http://news.nationalpost.com/2013/03/13/marc-garneau-dropping-out-of-liberal-leadership-race/)


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: RogueBeaver on March 13, 2013, 04:29:19 PM
He probably didn't get promised anything except a return to his Industry post, if that. Garneau, like Rae and Coderre (who'll be ex-MPs in a few months), has never seemed terribly enthused about serving under Trudeau. MHF was just on PP and all buzzwords/talking points, BTW. Funke and Ling seem to be the only journos actually pointing this out.

Kitchen cabinet predictions: Brison, Goodale, LeBlanc, Valeriote, Simms or Andrews.



Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: RogueBeaver on March 13, 2013, 08:18:12 PM
New Leger poll: PQ 31, PLQ 30, CAQ 20. PLQ leadership numbers tomorrow (not that it matters with a delegated convention). Hilariously Couillard leads on everything except the economy and integrity. Truth be told I think in addition to Charest's incompetence, his staunch federalism also damaged the PLQ brand with Francophones. He was their first leader since Godbout to be more federalist than nationalist, and we know how that turned out. McPherson goes a bit far when he compares Couillard to Boisclair's civic nationalism since Couillard is a super-smart guy with loads of gravitas, not a joke candidate like Boisclair, but the overall point sticks. So long as Boomers dominate the electoral landscape the PLQ will need a swing back to nationalism. Problem isn't new but it's been so long since they had to cope...


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: RogueBeaver on March 14, 2013, 01:06:25 PM
Couillard doesn't budge PLQ numbers at all, still at 30 and thereby opposition. Unsurprising because apart from the name on their door nothing's changing. I'm sure my fellow Quebecers will take notice next year and vote accordingly.

http://www.journaldemontreal.com/2013/03/14/couillard-domine-mais-le-plq-pietine

In other provincial news, BC NDP now leads 51-32 PV and 70-14 in seats per Ipsos.

http://bc2013.com/2013/03/14/ipsos-reid-poll-ndp-51-bcl-32/


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: RogueBeaver on March 14, 2013, 02:34:59 PM
Breaking: Peter Penashue is resigning from Cabinet and Parliament due to that campaign finance scandal. He will run in the by-election. A bit of Coppsian political theatre, I assume the Liberals will try and recapture the seat.

Statement.

http://www2.macleans.ca/2013/03/14/peter-penashue-resigns-over-ineligible-donations/


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: RogueBeaver on March 14, 2013, 04:21:23 PM
Budget next Friday. BC AuGen blasts Clark govt on Memogate.


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: RogueBeaver on March 14, 2013, 05:45:27 PM
Fycking disgrace is putting this mildly. Not the first time something like this happened either.

http://www.winnipegfreepress.com/canada/flq-terrorist-paul-rose-major-figure-in-1970-october-crisis-dies-198093971.html


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: RogueBeaver on March 16, 2013, 12:49:07 PM
PLQ leadership convention tomorrow. Couillard will win and Bachand will retire at the next election. Meanwhile Moreau, who's "only" in his mid-50s, has positioned himself well for next time.

http://www.lapresse.ca/debats/chroniques/vincent-marissal/201303/16/01-4631648-ca-narrive-quaux-30-ans.php

http://www.lapresse.ca/actualites/quebec-canada/politique-quebecoise/201303/16/01-4631674-plq-un-couronnement-previsible-pour-un-parti-mal-en-point.php

WTF moment: Mulroney endorses Bachand.

http://www.journaldemontreal.com/2013/03/15/mulroney-appuie-bachand


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: RogueBeaver on March 17, 2013, 01:02:03 PM
Bachand said he'd support Moreau if Moreau placed second. Couillard's people expect 60% or so on the first ballot, which will be announced sometime in the next half hour.


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: RogueBeaver on March 17, 2013, 01:53:57 PM
Couillard has been elected PLQ leader with 58.5% on the first ballot. Moreau in second with 22% and Bachand 3rd with 19%. Just like 30 years ago when Paradis edged Johnson for a very distant second...

While I probably won't vote PLQ next time- too soon- Couillard has my 100% support.


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: RogueBeaver on March 17, 2013, 02:14:40 PM
Great speech by Couillard. Talked a lot about listening to everyone, grassroots, regions, etc. Also said getting Quebec's signature on the Constitution is a pet project of his... good luck with that. More relevantly he'll need to find a seat in the Assembly.


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: RogueBeaver on March 17, 2013, 02:56:09 PM
Couillard has been elected PLQ leader with 58.5% on the first ballot. Moreau in second with 22% and Bachand 3rd with 19%. Just like 30 years ago when Paradis edged Johnson for a very distant second...

While I probably won't vote PLQ next time- too soon- Couillard has my 100% support.


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: Hash on March 17, 2013, 03:33:22 PM
Ugh. Couillard is basically what's wrong with contemporary politics.


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: RogueBeaver on March 17, 2013, 05:29:18 PM
Ugh. Couillard is basically what's wrong with contemporary politics.

Porter, healthcare, opportunism (or as the PLQ has it, prodigal son returns)? All of the above?

Also: apparently he won't be seeking a seat before the next election, so Fournier or someone else will remain parliamentary leader.


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: RogueBeaver on March 18, 2013, 06:34:33 AM
Major Cabinet shuffle in late June or early July. Not a moment too soon. Apparently more women- Glover and Bergen?- will be featured.

http://www.hilltimes.com/news/news/2013/03/18/pmo-confirms-harper-plans-%E2%80%98major-changes%E2%80%99-to-cabinet-this-summer/34047


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: Hash on March 18, 2013, 06:53:19 AM
Porter, healthcare, opportunism (or as the PLQ has it, prodigal son returns)? All of the above?

All of the above. Hopefully he goes down in flames as any scumbag of his type should, but voters are morons.

As for this 'major' cabinet shuffle, is this actually going to be a 'major' one or another of the usual yearly replacement of whichever minister turned out to be too much of a retard or a crook since the last shuffle?


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: RogueBeaver on March 18, 2013, 07:23:15 AM
Being billed as the former, obviously we should only believe it when we see it.


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: RogueBeaver on March 18, 2013, 03:16:35 PM
I'm certainly no fan of Mulcair's energy views, but Redford is way overdoing it.

http://www.cbc.ca/news/politics/story/2013/03/18/pol-redford-slams-mulcair.html

Penashue's current dilemma isn't new.

http://www.cbc.ca/news/politics/story/2013/03/18/pol-penashue-warned-to-get-filing-done.html

How?

http://www.cbc.ca/news/canada/story/2013/03/18/pol-greg-weston-harper-skilled-jobs.html


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: RogueBeaver on March 19, 2013, 09:40:35 AM
Charbonneau extended till April 19, 2015. Interim report next January. Have fun PLQ. :)


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: RogueBeaver on March 20, 2013, 12:27:49 PM
Ralph Klein won't be with us for much longer. Losing both Western legends in 6 months... :(

http://calgary.ctvnews.ca/sources-say-klein-s-health-failing-1.1203232

Also, Flaherty acted stupidly with his mortgage interference. Should stay out of their business.


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: RogueBeaver on March 29, 2013, 03:08:25 PM
King Ralph has passed away. RIP to a great Canadian. :(

http://news.nationalpost.com/2013/03/29/former-alberta-premier-ralph-klein-dies-at-70/?utm_source=dlvr.it&utm_medium=twitter


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: Hatman 🍁 on March 29, 2013, 04:07:20 PM
RIP to a man I never really liked, but he was quite amusing.

One of my university profs (Rand Dyck) was a high school classmate of Klein's, and told us that he never expected much out of Klein, and he was voted "least likely to succeed" in the class.


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: RogueBeaver on March 29, 2013, 07:00:46 PM
New Leger federal poll: 32 Grit, 25 Dipper/Bloc in Quebec with JT, 29 BQ, 28 Grit and 24 NDP without him. Federally he increases Grit support from 30 to 37.

http://www.montrealgazette.com/news/Trudeau+would+draw+more+Liberal+votes+Quebec+poll/8171424/story.html

On the provincial side, PLQ gets a leadership bounce to 33-29 but still trailing 36-24 (!) among Francophones. Couillard trails in all the important areas: dead last on the economy, third behind None and Marois on integrity and trailing 41-19 on defence of Quebec's interests. They lead in Quebec City and Montreal but trail in ROQ. QS at 9% provincewide.

http://www.ledevoir.com/politique/quebec/374540/couillard-propulse-le-plq-au-premier-rang


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: Hatman 🍁 on March 30, 2013, 02:11:06 PM
RIP Peter Kormos :(


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: Filuwaúrdjan on March 30, 2013, 02:47:35 PM
Oh, that's a shame. He wasn't that old, was he?


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: RogueBeaver on March 30, 2013, 02:50:11 PM
Oh, that's a shame. He wasn't that old, was he?

60. No one knows the cause of death yet. Art Philips also died today.


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: Hatman 🍁 on March 30, 2013, 03:51:54 PM
Apparently Kormos was a Niagara Regional Councillor, having been elected in a by-election almost a year ago to the day. He had replaced Cindy Forster who had replaced him as MPP.  I guess another by-election is in order for Welland.


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: RogueBeaver on April 02, 2013, 03:22:47 PM
Michael Sona has been charged by Elections Canada on robocalls. Hmm.


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: Hatman 🍁 on April 02, 2013, 04:57:54 PM
Michael Sona has been charged by Elections Canada on robocalls. Hmm.

Oh wow. You know, he is a friend of a friend of a friend of mine. I've not met him, but one of my best friends has.


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: RogueBeaver on April 02, 2013, 06:59:18 PM
Tories will hit the airwaves with anti-Trudeau attack ads immediately after he's ratified as leader. PG-13 stuff, not R. There'll also be a Grit counteroffensive.

http://fullcomment.nationalpost.com/2013/04/02/john-ivison-conservatives-have-attack-ads-set-to-launch-against-justin-trudeau/

Pam Wallin temporarily leaving her committee work for personal reasons.

http://www.thestar.com/news/canada/2013/04/02/conservative_senator_pamela_wallin_steps_down_from_committees_for_personal_reasons.html


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: Hatman 🍁 on April 03, 2013, 08:21:01 AM
Excellent. Almost makes me want to donate to the Conservative Party. Almost.


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: RogueBeaver on April 03, 2013, 08:23:38 AM
He's also a threat to the NDP, so when are you guys putting up your own ads? ;)


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: RogueBeaver on April 03, 2013, 01:17:02 PM
Doug Ford will seek a PC nomination in the next provincial election. I hope he fails.

http://toronto.ctvnews.ca/wynne-welcomes-ford-s-challenge-but-no-election-looming-1.1222365


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: DC Al Fine on April 03, 2013, 01:25:38 PM
Doug Ford will seek a PC nomination in the next provincial election. I hope he fails.

http://toronto.ctvnews.ca/wynne-welcomes-ford-s-challenge-but-no-election-looming-1.1222365

Which riding would he run in?


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: RogueBeaver on April 03, 2013, 06:02:04 PM
Liberal Senator's husband put $1.7 million in an offshore account while battling with Revenue Canada.

http://www.cbc.ca/news/canada/story/2013/04/03/merchant-offshore-trust.html

Mulcair wants socialism expunged from the NDP's constitutional preamble.

http://news.nationalpost.com/2013/04/03/ndp-ponders-deleting-socialism-from-its-guiding-statement

A Goldman Sachs Obama bundler will be the next US Ambassador.

http://www.cbc.ca/news/politics/story/2013/04/03/pol-us-ambassador-to-canada-obama.html


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: You kip if you want to... on April 03, 2013, 06:35:11 PM
Mulcair wants socialism expunged from the NDP's constitutional preamble.

http://news.nationalpost.com/2013/04/03/ndp-ponders-deleting-socialism-from-its-guiding-statement

Trying to be something of a Tom Mulblair then?


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: RogueBeaver on April 03, 2013, 07:03:27 PM
As the article says, not entirely. Anyways the NDP's preamble and constitution are hardly common knowledge, unlike Clause 4. Plus they've long ditched the policies which jive with the original- thanks to Layton.

Here's the current one.

Quote from:  NDP Preamble
The New Democratic Party believes that the social, economic and political progress of Canada can be assured only by the application of democratic socialist principles to government and the administration of public affairs
 
The principles of democratic socialism can be defined briefly as:
 
That the production and distribution of goods and services shall be directed to meeting the social and individual needs of people within a sustainable environment and economy and not to the making of profit;
 
To modify and control the operations of the monopolistic productive and distributive organizations through economic and social planning. Towards these ends and where necessary the extension of the principle of social ownership;
 
The New Democratic Party holds firm to the belief that the dignity and freedom of the individual is a basic right that must be maintained and extended; and
 
The New Democratic Party is proud to be associated with the democratic socialist parties of the world and to share the struggle for peace, international co-operation and the abolition of poverty.
 


Proposed new one:

Quote from:  New NDP preamble


Canada is a great country, one of the hopes of the world. New Democrats are Canadians who believe we can be a better one – a country of greater equality, justice, and opportunity. We can build sustainable prosperity, and a society that shares its benefits more fairly. We can look after our seniors. We can offer better futures for our children. We can do our part to save the world’s environment. New Democrats work together to these ends for the sake of our fellow citizens and in the interests of all of humanity.
 
New Democrats are proud of our political and activist heritage, and our long record of visionary, practical, and successful governments. That heritage and that record have distinguished and inspired our party since the creation of the Co-operative Commonwealth Federation in 1933, and the founding of the New Democratic Party in 1961.
 
New Democrats seek a future which brings together the best of the insights and objectives of Canadians who, within the social democratic and democratic socialist traditions, have worked through farmer, labour, co-operative, feminist, human rights and environmental movements to build a more just, equal, and sustainable Canada within a global community dedicated to the same goals.
 
New Democrats celebrate Canada’s diversity and the deep histories, traditions and aspirations of all of its peoples.
 
New Democrats believe in freedom and democracy, and in a positive role for democratically elected and accountable Parliaments, legislatures and the governments responsible to them.
 
New Democrats affirm a role for government in helping to create the conditions for sustainable prosperity. We believe in a rules based economy, nationally and globally, in which governments have the power to address the limitations of the market in addressing the common good, by having the power to act in the public interest, for social and economic justice, and for the integrity of the environment.
 
New Democrats belong to the family of other progressive democratic political parties that govern successfully in many countries around the world. In co-operation with like minded political parties and governments, New Democrats are committed to working together for peace, international co-operation, and the common good of all – the common good being our fundamental purpose as a movement and as a party.



Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: Hatman 🍁 on April 03, 2013, 08:12:48 PM
That's rather sh*tty. Why not just replace socialism with social democracy?



Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: You kip if you want to... on April 03, 2013, 08:21:46 PM
That's rather sh*tty. Why not just replace socialism with social democracy?



It's too wordy for floating voters.


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: RogueBeaver on April 03, 2013, 08:34:42 PM
I doubt non-junkies have ever heard of the NDP's constitution. Either way not a huge deal, plus the Montreal convention where the change will take place is going to be held on the 14th.


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: MaxQue on April 04, 2013, 07:26:14 PM
That's rather sh*tty. Why not just replace socialism with social democracy?



Because people thought a fit when it was attempted at Vancouver in 2011. Now, they keep the work socialism, but get rid of all marxist vocabulary.

Anyways, who reads the NDP convention?

Earl, why you oppose it? I'm interested to hear as I'll be at the convention and will have to most probably vote on it.


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: Hatman 🍁 on April 04, 2013, 09:34:54 PM
That's rather sh*tty. Why not just replace socialism with social democracy?



Because people thought a fit when it was attempted at Vancouver in 2011. Now, they keep the work socialism, but get rid of all marxist vocabulary.

Anyways, who reads the NDP convention?

Earl, why you oppose it? I'm interested to hear as I'll be at the convention and will have to most probably vote on it.

It doesn't read as being very "constitutional".

Semantics, I suppose. Have fun at the convention, btw. They're a lot of fun. Despite it being just 2 hours down the road, this will be the first one I've missed in quite some time.


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: RogueBeaver on April 09, 2013, 06:02:08 PM
Boulerice in hot water for some Marxist WWI stuff he wrote 6 years ago.

http://www.journaldemontreal.com/2013/04/09/les-conservateurs-condamnent-les-propos-dalexandre-boulerice

In other news, this RBC outsourcing thing is getting some traction.

http://fullcomment.nationalpost.com/2013/04/10/andrew-coyne-rbc-outsourcing-controversy-an-economic-fraud/

Boulerice is not backing down from his blog post. Wonder what happens when Mulcair returns from overseas.

http://www.sunnewsnetwork.ca/sunnews/politics/archives/2013/04/20130410-161430.html

NDP convention this weekend: Mulcair's softer side. I guess this is Sweater Vest, Orange Edition?

http://www.huffingtonpost.ca/2013/04/10/thomas-mulcair-family-personal-life_n_3054311.html


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: Hatman 🍁 on April 10, 2013, 12:54:38 PM
::)


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: Hash on April 11, 2013, 08:19:24 AM
Boulerice's comments make him an epic freedom fighter. I didn't know it was illegal to hold critical historical perspectives from the accepted 'norm', though from this government I'm not shocked. How about we go through what some Purgatories might have written in their earlier days. Probably some much more serious stuff than a Marxist perspective on World War I.


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: You kip if you want to... on April 11, 2013, 08:48:24 AM
What's the general perception of Mulcair? Potential PM or not?


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: Hatman 🍁 on April 11, 2013, 10:12:19 AM
What's the general perception of Mulcair? Potential PM or not?

People don't really know him that well. I don't think he will become PM, as Trudeaumania is going to hit and either (unlikely) propel the Liberals to first place, or (more likely) put the Liberals in 2nd or boost them enough to "split the vote" with the NDP. By split the vote, I mean the quasi-progressive anti-Harper/anti-Conservative vote. I wouldn't call it a split myself due to the strong ideological differences between the two parties. 


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: Peter the Lefty on April 11, 2013, 03:14:34 PM
So what's up with this whole Boulerice-WWI controversy?  Is it actually taboo to criticize that war up there?


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: RogueBeaver on April 15, 2013, 08:56:02 AM
Here are our first anti-JT ads. Fairly mild stuff. Apparently running in the Atlantic region for now.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=1qKps7uG6eM

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=sGWuN3ZVuxU&feature=youtu.be

The ad's context.

http://www.ctvnews.ca/video?clipId=905697


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: DC Al Fine on April 15, 2013, 10:51:06 AM
Makes sense. Atlantic Canada is where the biggest Tory/Liberal swing has occurred.


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: minionofmidas on April 15, 2013, 01:12:53 PM
He's also a threat to the NDP, so when are you guys putting up your own ads? ;)
Much better to let the other two slug it out.


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: RogueBeaver on April 15, 2013, 01:34:34 PM
JT hit the tariff hike, PM said we've cut them overall and that Liberals voted against the budgets that did it. Of course the PM governs as a conservative populist rather than vice-versa... but before that Mulcair hit Harper on RBC.


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: Hatman 🍁 on April 15, 2013, 01:42:55 PM
Semi decent ads, but not as good as we've seen from the Tories. They were at least amusing.

He's also a threat to the NDP, so when are you guys putting up your own ads? ;)
Much better to let the other two slug it out.

Indeed. The NDP will be attacking the governing party. We will try to ignore the Liberals, as attacking them gives them legitimacy. We want to show Canadians that we're the best party to oppose Harper. You can't do that by attacking the wrong guy.


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: MaxQue on April 15, 2013, 02:06:14 PM
We have nothing to gain attacking Liberals ourselves.


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: RogueBeaver on April 16, 2013, 07:36:53 AM
Looks like Redford is in trouble within her own party. I bet they keep her.

http://www.theglobeandmail.com/news/national/premier-redford-facing-strife-from-within-alberta-pcs/article11253238/


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: DC Al Fine on April 16, 2013, 09:00:08 AM
We have nothing to gain attacking Liberals ourselves.

In Quebec you do. There's no point of going after the Tories there and they, along with the Bloc will be your main competition for seats.


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: RogueBeaver on April 16, 2013, 09:11:44 AM
The NDP doesn't want to give the impression that JT's a political threat. I doubt the opposition parties engage each other- they're only hitting Harper- for some time, and at any rate QC is way too volatile to predict.


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: MaxQue on April 16, 2013, 08:01:32 PM
We have nothing to gain attacking Liberals ourselves.

In Quebec you do. There's no point of going after the Tories there and they, along with the Bloc will be your main competition for seats.

Quebec is Quebec, it's useless to attack people two years before election. People tend to swing largely on current events, not their first impression of 2 years ago.


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: RogueBeaver on April 16, 2013, 09:22:35 PM
JT will be shuffling his Shadow Cabinet in September, Murray and Garneau will get potential upgrades. Also bringing Kinsella onboard.

http://cnews.canoe.ca/CNEWS/Politics/2013/04/16/20747271.html

http://www.journaldemontreal.com/2013/04/16/mouvements-de-personnel-prevus


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: RogueBeaver on April 17, 2013, 10:47:18 AM
Peladeau has been appointed Hydro-Quebec chair. Who's next, a Desmarais? Won't help Marois on her left.

JT will meet Couillard and Legault tomorrow, didn't succeed in scheduling a meeting with Marois. Not supporting anyone in BC.

Rae to Foreign Affairs (I got that one right), Garneau to Natural Resources, Murray to Asia, Hsu to PSE.


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: Hash on April 17, 2013, 01:01:32 PM
Peladeau has been appointed Hydro-Quebec chair.

...

I feel sick and disgusted.


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: RogueBeaver on April 17, 2013, 01:12:02 PM
Here's the link. Official story is that he asked and she offered, but perhaps a way to detente with Quebec Inc, which isn't terribly happy with Marois to begin with.

http://affaires.lapresse.ca/economie/quebec/201304/17/01-4641752-pierre-karl-peladeau-presidera-le-conseil-dhydro-quebec.php


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: Hatman 🍁 on April 20, 2013, 01:28:02 AM
FTR, I got to meet Michael Sona (aka Pierre Poutine) tonight. He is sticking by his innocence.


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: RogueBeaver on April 20, 2013, 09:29:55 AM
Still 3 more years.

http://www.calgaryherald.com/news/alberta/poll+shows+sharp+slide/8271185/story.html

Re Peladeau: Even Marois' staunchest press supporter, Le Devoir, isn't happy about it.

http://www.ledevoir.com/politique/quebec/376164/le-benevole-de-l-annee



Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: Lincoln Republican on April 20, 2013, 03:38:46 PM
Remember this when it happens.

I predict a mass exodus of NDP MPs from Quebec to the Liberals under Trudeau, knowing they will not be able to win reelection as NDP candidates in Quebec.

Mark my words.


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: DC Al Fine on April 20, 2013, 06:36:27 PM
FTR, I got to meet Michael Sona (aka Pierre Poutine) tonight. He is sticking by his innocence.

There's gotta be a good story behind this.


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: King of Kensington on April 20, 2013, 06:37:27 PM
Not a chance.  The Liberals face serious problems in francophone Quebec which goes far deeper than party leadership.  


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: DC Al Fine on April 20, 2013, 06:42:14 PM
Not a chance.  The Liberals face serious problems in francophone Quebec which goes far deeper than party leadership.  

It's a 3 way race in QC right now. It wouldn't take a lot to make seats change hands.


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: RogueBeaver on April 20, 2013, 06:50:53 PM
Hatman knows Sona through someone else IIRC.

QC: Getting to 2004 levels, 20-odd seats in their usual hotspots, seems a realistic target for the Pelciquistes. But yeah, Winfield's post is absurd.

One thing I'm eager to see is the Cabinet shuffle, whenever it comes. I'm underexpecting and hoping for overfulfillment. Someone will have to permanently replace Penashue when his loss is confirmed next month. We'll see if for once Harper brings in new blood.


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: MaxQue on April 20, 2013, 07:59:25 PM
Remember this when it happens.

I predict a mass exodus of NDP MPs from Quebec to the Liberals under Trudeau, knowing they will not be able to win reelection as NDP candidates in Quebec.

Mark my words.

Liberals are still dead in rural Francophone Quebec and Trudeau isn't a good candidate for those nationalist areas.


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: Benj on April 20, 2013, 08:01:50 PM
Remember this when it happens.

I predict a mass exodus of NDP MPs from Quebec to the Liberals under Trudeau, knowing they will not be able to win reelection as NDP candidates in Quebec.

Mark my words.

Liberals are still dead in rural Francophone Quebec and Trudeau isn't a good candidate for those nationalist areas.

It's Winfield. He probably thinks Mitt Romney would sweep Quebec.


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: RogueBeaver on April 20, 2013, 08:03:49 PM
On another note, Mike Duffy repaid his housing expenses last month.

http://www.nationalnewswatch.com/mike_duffy_statement_on_housing_allowance_repayment.htm


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: DC Al Fine on April 20, 2013, 09:39:14 PM
Remember this when it happens.

I predict a mass exodus of NDP MPs from Quebec to the Liberals under Trudeau, knowing they will not be able to win reelection as NDP candidates in Quebec.

Mark my words.

Liberals are still dead in rural Francophone Quebec and Trudeau isn't a good candidate for those nationalist areas.

MaxQue, what's your guess to how the Quebec vote will split?


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: MaxQue on April 20, 2013, 09:58:24 PM
Remember this when it happens.

I predict a mass exodus of NDP MPs from Quebec to the Liberals under Trudeau, knowing they will not be able to win reelection as NDP candidates in Quebec.

Mark my words.

Liberals are still dead in rural Francophone Quebec and Trudeau isn't a good candidate for those nationalist areas.

MaxQue, what's your guess to how the Quebec vote will split?

No, currently, since I'm waiting to see if the Liberal bounce is a permanent one, or just a "we have a new leader" one.


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: batmacumba on April 20, 2013, 10:48:21 PM

Weird. How long will this last?


()





Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: Hatman 🍁 on April 21, 2013, 07:46:03 AM
FTR, I got to meet Michael Sona (aka Pierre Poutine) tonight. He is sticking by his innocence.

There's gotta be a good story behind this.

Not really. He's a pretty cool guy actually. Of course, him and our mutual friend hate the Tories now. Not sure where Sona will park his vote, but our mutual friend (who is a very traditionalist conservative) is a Trudeau backer now.

What I found interesting is, according to Sona, the Tory database is very restricted, only a few people on each campaign have access.  The NDP meanwhile lets any seasoned volunteer have access. Anyways, Sona did not even have access to the Tory database.


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: Holmes on April 21, 2013, 08:13:46 AM
Remember this when it happens.

I predict a mass exodus of NDP MPs from Quebec to the Liberals under Trudeau, knowing they will not be able to win reelection as NDP candidates in Quebec.

Mark my words.

We're gonna need to see your credentials first before you can make any predictions about Canada.


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: DC Al Fine on April 21, 2013, 08:30:34 AM
FTR, I got to meet Michael Sona (aka Pierre Poutine) tonight. He is sticking by his innocence.

There's gotta be a good story behind this.

Not really. He's a pretty cool guy actually. Of course, him and our mutual friend hate the Tories now. Not sure where Sona will park his vote, but our mutual friend (who is a very traditionalist conservative) is a Trudeau backer now.

What I found interesting is, according to Sona, the Tory database is very restricted, only a few people on each campaign have access.  The NDP meanwhile lets any seasoned volunteer have access. Anyways, Sona did not even have access to the Tory database.

Speaking as a traditionalist conservative, why would a traditionalist conservative ever vote for Trudeau? Wanting to establish a Canadian monarchy?

I'm aware of the database rules. I only got database access in 2011 after working on campaigns in 06 and 08. I was told the restrictions were to prevent "over enthusiastic volunteers" from pulling any crap. Shows how well that worked out ::)


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: politicus on April 21, 2013, 09:18:14 AM
FTR, I got to meet Michael Sona (aka Pierre Poutine) tonight. He is sticking by his innocence.

There's gotta be a good story behind this.

Not really. He's a pretty cool guy actually. Of course, him and our mutual friend hate the Tories now. Not sure where Sona will park his vote, but our mutual friend (who is a very traditionalist conservative) is a Trudeau backer now.

What I found interesting is, according to Sona, the Tory database is very restricted, only a few people on each campaign have access.  The NDP meanwhile lets any seasoned volunteer have access. Anyways, Sona did not even have access to the Tory database.

Speaking as a traditionalist conservative, why would a traditionalist conservative ever vote for Trudeau? Wanting to establish a Canadian monarchy?
Why not? With his looks, preference for a life in leisure and talent for uttering platitudes he would be much better suited as King than as Prime Minister.


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: Hatman 🍁 on April 22, 2013, 06:57:06 AM
FTR, I got to meet Michael Sona (aka Pierre Poutine) tonight. He is sticking by his innocence.

There's gotta be a good story behind this.

Not really. He's a pretty cool guy actually. Of course, him and our mutual friend hate the Tories now. Not sure where Sona will park his vote, but our mutual friend (who is a very traditionalist conservative) is a Trudeau backer now.

What I found interesting is, according to Sona, the Tory database is very restricted, only a few people on each campaign have access.  The NDP meanwhile lets any seasoned volunteer have access. Anyways, Sona did not even have access to the Tory database.

Speaking as a traditionalist conservative, why would a traditionalist conservative ever vote for Trudeau? Wanting to establish a Canadian monarchy?

I'm aware of the database rules. I only got database access in 2011 after working on campaigns in 06 and 08. I was told the restrictions were to prevent "over enthusiastic volunteers" from pulling any crap. Shows how well that worked out ::)

Well, he's pretty pro monarchy, and wants to bring back the red ensign. I think you two might get along well.


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: RogueBeaver on April 22, 2013, 07:01:36 AM
Scheer rules today.

http://fullcomment.nationalpost.com/2013/04/22/john-ivison-speakers-ruling-on-mark-warawas-privilege-to-speak-freely-could-head-off-tory-rebellion/


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: RogueBeaver on April 22, 2013, 11:14:25 AM
Ontario budget will be tabled May 2.


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: RogueBeaver on April 22, 2013, 11:34:13 AM
The key NDP demands aren't in Sousa's budget speech. Election time.


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: Hatman 🍁 on April 22, 2013, 01:27:29 PM
...


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: You kip if you want to... on April 22, 2013, 02:32:04 PM
Any chances of a Premier Horwath?


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: Blue3 on April 22, 2013, 02:45:28 PM
So what's with this major terrorist attack that was thwarted?


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: Hatman 🍁 on April 22, 2013, 02:48:15 PM
No word about any elections.


Extremely unlikely, but hey 1990 happened. This race will be seen as more of a 3 way race than any election since perhaps 1995.


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: RogueBeaver on April 22, 2013, 02:55:08 PM
Details on that terrorist attack: AQ-inspired against a VIA passenger train. On a related note, Fadden is moving from CSIS to DM at DOD. New anti-terrorism legislation is being debated today: if time allocation is invoked the vote could be tomorrow night.

http://www.cbc.ca/news/politics/story/2013/04/22/pol-csis-fadden-defence.html

http://www.cbc.ca/news/politics/story/2013/04/22/pol-terror-plot-ontario-quebec-arrests.html

Ontario: Total crapshoot right now. Quite conceivably seats and PV won't match.


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: RogueBeaver on April 22, 2013, 03:03:18 PM
They're not Canadian citizens but have Iranian connections.

In other news, Justice Fish is resigning from the Court. Talk about an action-packed day. His retirement takes effect Aug. 31, meaning the PM will have named 6/9 justices.


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: Marokai Backbeat on April 22, 2013, 04:11:19 PM
Unfortunately this is probably the best time the Ontario Liberals have to just go for broke and call an election. It makes sense, if it happens.


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: Talleyrand on April 22, 2013, 06:41:39 PM
So an Ontario provincial election is all but assured at this point, correct? Or am I missing something?


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: RogueBeaver on April 22, 2013, 07:30:40 PM
It depends on how Wynne and Horwath crunch their risk/reward calculator, as always in minority situations. Horwath laid down explicit policy markers and made a major deal of them, Wynne seemingly deliberately decided to not give them any concessions. Usually minimal (like Harper gave Layton in 2011) or zero budget concessions mean yes. All depends on what those 2 decide.


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: RogueBeaver on April 22, 2013, 07:48:47 PM
They're putting in an auto insurance proposal and corporate tax loophole elimination. Dunno if those will be to Horwath's taste.

http://www.cbc.ca/news/canada/toronto/story/2013/04/22/toronto-queens-park-liberal-government-budget.html?autoplay=true


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: Hatman 🍁 on April 22, 2013, 08:40:22 PM
That will probably be enough.


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: RogueBeaver on April 22, 2013, 09:59:11 PM
Sousa's sending mixed signals and Horwath seems genuinely undecided, though given her dovish history I'll believe it when I see it. Unless Wynne pulls the trigger herself.

http://www.thestar.com/news/canada/2013/04/22/will_ndps_andrea_horwath_keep_liberal_budget_alive.html

http://fullcomment.nationalpost.com/2013/04/22/scott-stinson-nine-years-in-ontario-liberals-still-putting-off-the-tough-decisions/?utm_source=dlvr.it&utm_medium=twitter

 


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: RogueBeaver on April 23, 2013, 12:41:09 PM
Poll-crunching by Grenier, plus the last 30 years of Environics polling.

Wynne: We won't be held hostage.

http://www.cbc.ca/news/canada/toronto/story/2013/04/23/ontario-premier-kathleen-wynne-budget-demands.html

http://www.theglobeandmail.com/news/politics/why-trudeaus-polling-bump-may-not-last-long/article11496155/

()


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: You kip if you want to... on April 23, 2013, 02:10:37 PM
Is Trudeau really as good as the polls are making out or were Dion and Ignatieff just so crap?

I imagine it's not exactly the party's brand that's been damaged, per say, like in the case of the UK Tories, more just lack of inspiration and competence. It is, after all, difficult to hate centrist parties.


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: RogueBeaver on April 23, 2013, 02:35:29 PM
Scheer rules no prima facie breach of privilege, along the lines Ivison predicted yesterday. MPs will have to stand up in members' statements if they want to be recognized.

http://fullcomment.nationalpost.com/2013/04/22/john-ivison-speakers-ruling-on-mark-warawas-privilege-to-speak-freely-could-head-off-tory-rebellion/

F12: As the article points out the bounce is well within historical norms. The Liberal brand has been destroyed or damaged in various parts of the country for 55 years: hence the long eastward retreat. As the chart shows, beyond foolish to extrapolate midterm polls into election results. We'll know starting this summer, certainly by next year, whether this is a honeymoon or something else.


Peladeau: No, just no. Goes against everything (except the "national question") the PQ stands for, and they're uncomfortable enough with Marois' wealth as is.

http://www.canada.com/news/Macpherson%2BPierre%2BKarl%2BP%C3%A9ladeau%2Bnext%2Bleader/8278029/story.html


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: DC Al Fine on April 23, 2013, 03:05:00 PM
Is Trudeau really as good as the polls are making out or were Dion and Ignatieff just so crap?

Both Dion and Ignatieff had post leadership election bounces in the polls, however, Trudeau's is somewhat stronger. He'll probably come down to earth once the attack ads start, but he's a much more credible threat than previous leaders due to his charisma and fundraising ability.


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: RogueBeaver on April 23, 2013, 06:38:52 PM
More Ontario news: LCBO setting a strike deadline of May 17th if their demands aren't met. Wynne's first mediation test.


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: RogueBeaver on April 25, 2013, 08:18:44 AM
New Ipsos Ontario poll out: PC 37, NDP 29, OLP 28. Below the topline things are worse for Wynne: 60% think it's time for a change, etc. John Wright even said that it reminds him of Campbell's numbers.

http://www.newstalk1010.com/News/localnews/blogentry.aspx?BlogEntryID=10535834

Wright's full diagnosis, which he gave to Kinsella of all people...

http://warrenkinsella.com/2013/04/ipsos-guru-on-the-latest-ontario-numbers/

Looks like Horwath's getting a lot of what she wants, but political calculus might turn out differently.

http://www.thestar.com/news/queenspark/2013/04/25/brace_for_postbudget_showdown_or_preelection_gambit_cohn.html


Meanwhile in Quebec, per CROP the PQ is tanking with the PLQ grabbing a double-digit lead over Marois, as the LPC's numbers also rebound into first.

http://www.lapresse.ca/le-soleil/actualites/politique/201304/23/01-4643923-sondage-crop-la-trudeaumanie-revit-avec-justin.php?



Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: You kip if you want to... on April 25, 2013, 09:03:06 AM
Meanwhile in Quebec, per CROP the PQ is tanking with the PLQ grabbing a double-digit lead over Marois, as the LPC's numbers also rebound into first.

http://www.lapresse.ca/le-soleil/actualites/politique/201304/23/01-4643923-sondage-crop-la-trudeaumanie-revit-avec-justin.php?



()

How has the CPC suddenly surged?


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: RogueBeaver on April 25, 2013, 09:15:40 AM
That's just in Quebec City, traditionally right-of-centre. Province wide they're down to 10% from 16% in 2011. The remaining Quebec Tory MPs are mostly there due to their personal popularity.


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: RogueBeaver on April 28, 2013, 09:13:47 AM
Wynne interview. She's still hoping Horwath saves the Grits, but privately is debate-prepping.

http://www.thestar.com/news/canada/2013/04/27/kathleen_wynne_prepares_for_campaign_trail_as_budget_looms_cohn.html


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: RogueBeaver on April 29, 2013, 08:10:21 AM
Forum pegs Ontario at 36 apiece with Dippers back at 24. Would produce 59 OLP, 38 PC, NDP 10. Dunno which pollster to believe, but Ipsos has a better track record IIRC.

http://www.thestar.com/news/canada/2013/04/29/kathleen_wynnes_liberals_jump_into_firstplace_tie_with_tories_poll.html

Federally, Ivison reminds us that retirement watch, geography and gender will determine who gets promoted this summer. Though for some reason he forgot Joe Oliver.

http://fullcomment.nationalpost.com/2013/04/28/young-tories-hoping-for-cabinet-post-mere-pawns-in-stephen-harpers-game/


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: Hatman 🍁 on April 29, 2013, 08:13:57 AM
24% does not give the NDP "10 seats". lol


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: DC Al Fine on April 29, 2013, 09:14:24 AM
24% does not give the NDP "10 seats". lol

How in God's name do they think that marginal changes from 2011 will result in the NDP dropping 7 seats?


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: RogueBeaver on April 29, 2013, 09:31:03 AM
Forum's a joke pollster, so I won't post anything else of theirs.

LISPOP's projection, crunching the past few polls, is PC 45, OLP 38, NDP 24. Meanwhile Hudak's tabling an NCM over gas plants, which will fail.

http://lispop.ca/Ontarioseatprojection.html


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: RogueBeaver on April 30, 2013, 04:09:26 PM
Den Tandt nails what Mulcair's doing on the Bastien allegations- base-stoking.

http://fullcomment.nationalpost.com/2013/04/30/den-tandt/

Interesting article on survival tips for Francos studying in English. The more cross-pollination on both sides the better, IMO.

http://journalmetro.com/plus/carrieres/301367/cinq-trucs-pour-sadapter-a-lenseignement-en-anglais/

The ON gas plant cancellations cost $310 million.


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: RogueBeaver on May 01, 2013, 08:53:32 AM
Don Martin says the sitting will continue till the 3rd week of June. More evidence of a summer prorogation.


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: RogueBeaver on May 01, 2013, 10:35:38 AM
We're not seeking a UNSC seat according to Baird. Meh.


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: True Federalist (진정한 연방 주의자) on May 01, 2013, 10:56:30 AM
Is a Security Council seat worth worrying about?


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: RogueBeaver on May 01, 2013, 11:06:42 AM
No, plus there isn't even an Americas seat up next year.


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: MaxQue on May 01, 2013, 11:57:03 AM
Is a Security Council seat worth worrying about?

No, but the fact than Harper is destroying our past excellent international reputation is very worrying.


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: DC Al Fine on May 01, 2013, 12:44:48 PM
Is a Security Council seat worth worrying about?

No, but the fact than Harper is destroying our past excellent international reputation is very worrying.

Cite?


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: MaxQue on May 01, 2013, 12:53:55 PM
Is a Security Council seat worth worrying about?

No, but the fact than Harper is destroying our past excellent international reputation is very worrying.

Cite?

Israel-loving
Copying our foreign policy on US one
Insulting various leftist statemen
Leaving or blatantly refusing to abide by UN conventions

Proof: Canada was crushed when it ran for a seat on security council. You are blind if you don't notice it.


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: Smid on May 01, 2013, 10:51:00 PM
Is a Security Council seat worth worrying about?

No, but the fact than Harper is destroying our past excellent international reputation is very worrying.

Cite?

I refer you to the UN delegations from North Korea and Iran. (http://news.nationalpost.com/2013/04/26/north-korea-iran-attack-canadas-human-rights-record-at-un-forum/)


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: MaxQue on May 02, 2013, 12:47:07 PM
Is a Security Council seat worth worrying about?

No, but the fact than Harper is destroying our past excellent international reputation is very worrying.

Cite?

I refer you to the UN delegations from North Korea and Iran. (http://news.nationalpost.com/2013/04/26/north-korea-iran-attack-canadas-human-rights-record-at-un-forum/)

I'm not talking of those trolls, Smid.


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: RogueBeaver on May 02, 2013, 06:58:52 PM
Looks like the government's IR foray will start very soon.

http://www.hilltimes.com/news/politics/2013/05/02/cbc-wants-meeting-with-feds-on-their-new-powers-over-collective-bargaining-in/34571?page_requested=1

As Ivison predicted, EDC chief Stephen Poloz will be the new BOC guv.

http://fullcomment.nationalpost.com/2013/05/02/john-ivison-new-bank-of-canada-governors-most-important-attribute-is-understanding-the-harper-agenda/


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: RogueBeaver on May 04, 2013, 03:22:43 PM
Horwath: 50-50. I still won't believe she does it unless it happens.

http://www.cbc.ca/news/politics/story/2013/05/04/pol-the-house-ontario-budget-ndp-horwath.html


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: MaxQue on May 05, 2013, 01:53:12 PM
QS has a new co-leader, to replace Amir Khadir.

Even through the favorite was Alexandre Leduc, candidate in Hochelaga-Maisonneuve in 2012, it's Andrés Fontecilla, candidate in Laurier-Dorion. The two other candidates were David Fortin-Côté, candidate in Montarville and Yvan Zanetti, candidate in Argenteuil.


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: RogueBeaver on May 05, 2013, 02:15:36 PM
QS also refused any alliance with the PQ. The anti-'66 if you will. :P

http://www.lapresse.ca/actualites/politique-quebecoise/201305/05/01-4647756-quebec-solidaire-rejette-toute-alliance-avec-le-pq.php


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: Hatman 🍁 on May 05, 2013, 02:22:06 PM
QS has a new co-leader, to replace Amir Khadir.

Even through the favorite was Alexandre Leduc, candidate in Hochelaga-Maisonneuve in 2012, it's Andrés Fontecilla, candidate in Laurier-Dorion. The two other candidates were David Fortin-Côté, candidate in Montarville and Yvan Zanetti, candidate in Argenteuil.

What happened to Khadir?

Is the QS electoral strategy to keep changing leaders to increase their seat count. The fact that they have 2 leaders probably helped them win 2 ridings. If they had just one leader, then they probably would have only won one. 2 leaders means 2 people in the spotlight.


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: RogueBeaver on May 05, 2013, 02:23:38 PM
One of the co-spokespeople can't be an MNA per party rules.


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: Hatman 🍁 on May 05, 2013, 02:47:24 PM
One of the co-spokespeople can't be an MNA per party rules.

Oh. Well, that's convenient. As I said, it's an interesting and so far successful electoral strategy.


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: RogueBeaver on May 06, 2013, 12:02:05 PM
Ontario: Per Benzie, Horwath has not decided whether to support the budget, and McGuinty is going to take full responsibility for Gasgate. Guessing more mea than culpa. Dipper caucus meets tomorrow but they don't know when public consults wrap up.


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: RogueBeaver on May 06, 2013, 05:46:24 PM
I know Ivison's the Scoop King, but this seems hard to believe. Hiebert's bill is in the Senate right now and Clement's idea is in the omnibudget. Now if he's talking about Step 3... then yeah, that's a would-be fourth term project, as Poilievre himself told Tim Harper at Xmas.

http://fullcomment.nationalpost.com/2013/05/06/tories-unlikely-to-take-on-unions-so-close-to-election/?utm_source=dlvr.it&utm_medium=twitter

Senate expense scandal update: Harb has to repay over 100k, Brazeau 30k.

http://www.ctvnews.ca/politics/senators-brazeau-harb-to-repay-thousands-in-living-expenses-1.1270200


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: RogueBeaver on May 08, 2013, 04:59:06 PM
Horwath still blowing hot and cold, perhaps the teensiest bit more hawkish, on what she'll do. Said a few more days of consultation, wouldn't bite when Solomon asked her about the May 15 deadline for a June election.


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: MaxQue on May 09, 2013, 07:50:00 AM
Former Laval mayor Gilles Vaillancourt has been arrested.


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: RogueBeaver on May 09, 2013, 08:03:37 AM
UM has almost finished imploding, with a few more councillors becoming independent.


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: MaxQue on May 09, 2013, 08:35:34 AM
UM has almost finished imploding, with a few more councillors becoming independent.

Even the leader will leave.
Depending of the news sources, either 6 of the 15 left or all of them will leave today. For memory, they got 39 seats last election.


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: MaxQue on May 09, 2013, 11:03:11 AM
Former Laval mayor Gilles Vaillancourt has been arrested.

Among other charges, he will be charged for gangsterism, which is quite unusual, it's for criminal groups, usually.


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: RogueBeaver on May 09, 2013, 01:01:09 PM
Wynne said it isn't possible to get a firm date for the 15% auto insurance cut.


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: Hatman 🍁 on May 09, 2013, 02:15:26 PM
What are the party standing on Montreal City Council now?


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: RogueBeaver on May 09, 2013, 02:16:39 PM
Senate audits have been released. Brazeau and Harb have to pay up, Harb will fight it in court and has *resigned* (i.e. expelled) from the Liberal caucus. The expulsion procedures need to be made easier: 2/3 vote, period.

Patriquin on the gangsterism charges. One of those statutes carries a maximum sentence of life imprisonment, BTW.

http://www2.macleans.ca/2013/05/09/gilles-vaillancourt-breaking-down-the-gangsterism-charges/



Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: RogueBeaver on May 09, 2013, 02:21:05 PM
Brazeau has to pay $48k, Harb $51k. LeBreton says all legal steps will be taken to reclaim the money. Good.


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: RogueBeaver on May 09, 2013, 03:31:20 PM
What are the party standing on Montreal City Council now?

UM will be formally dissolved, all its councillors are now independents. Curious to see how many of them, if any, join Equipe Coderre.

Meanwhile in Nova Scotia, apparently a Dipper minister assaulted a Liberal MLA.


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: Hatman 🍁 on May 09, 2013, 05:05:42 PM
What are the party standing on Montreal City Council now?

UM will be formally dissolved, all its councillors are now independents. Curious to see how many of them, if any, join Equipe Coderre.

And the standings are then...?


Quote
Meanwhile in Nova Scotia, apparently a Dipper minister assaulted a Liberal MLA.

Oh dear. I suppose we can kiss our chances of another majority goodbye.


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: RogueBeaver on May 10, 2013, 06:46:43 AM
Shuffle will happen by the end of June. Hopefully Ivison's correct as usual on the who and where, we need a reset.

http://www.cbc.ca/news/politics/story/2013/05/09/f-vp-hall-harper-midterm.html

The NS minister in question has resigned from Cabinet.

http://www.cbc.ca/news/canada/nova-scotia/story/2013/05/10/ns-percy-paris-resign-scuffle.html


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: RogueBeaver on May 10, 2013, 08:47:57 AM
Horwath has more budget demands, today for expanded ombudsman coverage. Will finish by next week and then start negotiating with Wynne.



Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: RogueBeaver on May 10, 2013, 11:26:39 AM
The Dipper minister has been charged with assault and uttering threats. Will appear in provincial court on June 18.

http://thechronicleherald.ca/novascotia/1128641-ex-ns-cabinet-minister-to-appear-in-court-in-june-on-assault-charge


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: Hatman 🍁 on May 10, 2013, 11:50:14 AM
Interesting. He is the only Black MLA in the legislature. Interestingly, the Black riding in NS is represented by a white guy.

I wonder if the Liberal MLA said something racist?

Could we be seeing a by-election? Paris won by a lot last time, but I see his riding is historically Tory. Could be a good 3-way fight if there is one.


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: DC Al Fine on May 10, 2013, 01:16:39 PM
Interesting. He is the only Black MLA in the legislature. Interestingly, the Black riding in NS is represented by a white guy.

I wonder if the Liberal MLA said something racist?

Could we be seeing a by-election? Paris won by a lot last time, but I see his riding is historically Tory. Could be a good 3-way fight if there is one.

A lot of the black community in NS is spread out in little villages settled when the Tories fled to Canada after the American Revolution. Preston happens to be the largest of these black communities, but if the riding was just the Preston area, it's population would be outrageously small so the boundary commission tacked on some white exurbs to boost the population. The "black" riding is more like 1/2 black rural village and 1/2 white exurb. Hence the white MLA.

I suspect any by-election will be an NDP-Liberal one. While the Tories have nominated a solid, well-known candidate, they simply haven't recovered enough in the polls to make it a 3 way race.



Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: RogueBeaver on May 10, 2013, 01:30:47 PM
More shuffle news. Possible retirees include Nicholson, Ablonczy, Ashfield, Ritz. I'd definitely trust Ivison more than Ditchburn since he's way more connected. And for some reason Oliver's running again.

http://www.winnipegfreepress.com/canada/coming-cabinet-shuffle-will-test-retirement-plans-for-cabinet-ministers-206948581.html


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: Hatman 🍁 on May 10, 2013, 02:31:03 PM
Interesting. He is the only Black MLA in the legislature. Interestingly, the Black riding in NS is represented by a white guy.

I wonder if the Liberal MLA said something racist?

Could we be seeing a by-election? Paris won by a lot last time, but I see his riding is historically Tory. Could be a good 3-way fight if there is one.

A lot of the black community in NS is spread out in little villages settled when the Tories fled to Canada after the American Revolution. Preston happens to be the largest of these black communities, but if the riding was just the Preston area, it's population would be outrageously small so the boundary commission tacked on some white exurbs to boost the population. The "black" riding is more like 1/2 black rural village and 1/2 white exurb. Hence the white MLA.

I suspect any by-election will be an NDP-Liberal one. While the Tories have nominated a solid, well-known candidate, they simply haven't recovered enough in the polls to make it a 3 way race.



Yeah, I see that it is historically actually a Liberal-PC riding.

I guess with the Blacks not concentrated enough, that's the reason Dexter got riding of t he Black riding in the latest redistribution?


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: DC Al Fine on May 10, 2013, 04:36:03 PM
Interesting. He is the only Black MLA in the legislature. Interestingly, the Black riding in NS is represented by a white guy.

I wonder if the Liberal MLA said something racist?

Could we be seeing a by-election? Paris won by a lot last time, but I see his riding is historically Tory. Could be a good 3-way fight if there is one.

A lot of the black community in NS is spread out in little villages settled when the Tories fled to Canada after the American Revolution. Preston happens to be the largest of these black communities, but if the riding was just the Preston area, it's population would be outrageously small so the boundary commission tacked on some white exurbs to boost the population. The "black" riding is more like 1/2 black rural village and 1/2 white exurb. Hence the white MLA.

I suspect any by-election will be an NDP-Liberal one. While the Tories have nominated a solid, well-known candidate, they simply haven't recovered enough in the polls to make it a 3 way race.



Yeah, I see that it is historically actually a Liberal-PC riding.

I guess with the Blacks not concentrated enough, that's the reason Dexter got riding of t he Black riding in the latest redistribution?

Yes and no. He also eliminated the 3 Acadian ridings (Argyle, Clare & Richmond). Depending on who you believe it was either because the ridings were too small and didn't represent their intended communities well or because none of those ridings had NDP MLA's :P



Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: Hatman 🍁 on May 10, 2013, 05:24:06 PM
Interesting. He is the only Black MLA in the legislature. Interestingly, the Black riding in NS is represented by a white guy.

I wonder if the Liberal MLA said something racist?

Could we be seeing a by-election? Paris won by a lot last time, but I see his riding is historically Tory. Could be a good 3-way fight if there is one.

A lot of the black community in NS is spread out in little villages settled when the Tories fled to Canada after the American Revolution. Preston happens to be the largest of these black communities, but if the riding was just the Preston area, it's population would be outrageously small so the boundary commission tacked on some white exurbs to boost the population. The "black" riding is more like 1/2 black rural village and 1/2 white exurb. Hence the white MLA.

I suspect any by-election will be an NDP-Liberal one. While the Tories have nominated a solid, well-known candidate, they simply haven't recovered enough in the polls to make it a 3 way race.



Yeah, I see that it is historically actually a Liberal-PC riding.

I guess with the Blacks not concentrated enough, that's the reason Dexter got riding of t he Black riding in the latest redistribution?

Yes and no. He also eliminated the 3 Acadian ridings (Argyle, Clare & Richmond). Depending on who you believe it was either because the ridings were too small and didn't represent their intended communities well or because none of those ridings had NDP MLA's :P




Yeah... BTW, do Blacks in NS vote Liberal or NDP?


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: MaxQue on May 10, 2013, 05:28:45 PM
Interesting. He is the only Black MLA in the legislature. Interestingly, the Black riding in NS is represented by a white guy.

I wonder if the Liberal MLA said something racist?

Could we be seeing a by-election? Paris won by a lot last time, but I see his riding is historically Tory. Could be a good 3-way fight if there is one.

A lot of the black community in NS is spread out in little villages settled when the Tories fled to Canada after the American Revolution. Preston happens to be the largest of these black communities, but if the riding was just the Preston area, it's population would be outrageously small so the boundary commission tacked on some white exurbs to boost the population. The "black" riding is more like 1/2 black rural village and 1/2 white exurb. Hence the white MLA.

I suspect any by-election will be an NDP-Liberal one. While the Tories have nominated a solid, well-known candidate, they simply haven't recovered enough in the polls to make it a 3 way race.



Yeah, I see that it is historically actually a Liberal-PC riding.

I guess with the Blacks not concentrated enough, that's the reason Dexter got riding of t he Black riding in the latest redistribution?

Yes and no. He also eliminated the 3 Acadian ridings (Argyle, Clare & Richmond). Depending on who you believe it was either because the ridings were too small and didn't represent their intended communities well or because none of those ridings had NDP MLA's :P



It's not like if there was Acadians left out of two or three villages. Those ridings were Anglophone and not Acadian.

Earl: Blacks vote Liberals


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: Hatman 🍁 on May 10, 2013, 05:31:28 PM
I know Preston has a Liberal MLA, but Paris is NDP and Black, and the only Black MP in Nova Scotia history (Gordon Earle) was also Black.  Did Preston (the community) go Liberal? I think it's in Peter Stoffer's federal riding, so they definitely vote NDP federally.


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: RogueBeaver on May 10, 2013, 09:11:40 PM
RCMP is opening a criminal investigation into the Senate expenses scandal, they've been monitoring it for months. Very welcome news. If charges are laid, hopefully the senators in question get suspended a la Brazeau.

http://www.ctvnews.ca/politics/rcmp-poised-to-open-criminal-investigation-into-senators-expenses-1.1276945

Horwath shifts her brand's emphasis.

http://m.theglobeandmail.com/news/national/horwaths-change-in-tone-presents-a-confusing-image/article11876625/?service=mobile


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: RogueBeaver on May 11, 2013, 11:40:42 AM
Doug Finley has passed away after a long battle with cancer at 66. RIP Senator. :( :(


In Quebec news, PLQ takes a 35-27 lead but not a majority because they're only at 25% with Francophones.

http://www.journaldemontreal.com/2013/05/10/la-chute-se-poursuit-pour-le-pq


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: Marokai Backbeat on May 11, 2013, 11:55:45 AM
The PLQ is a horror movie villain that never dies. :P


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: RogueBeaver on May 11, 2013, 12:09:24 PM
Part of this might be a Couillard honeymoon, rest is the government's deeply underwater approvals. PQ is base bleeding to QS/ON, PLQ gaining from a deflating CAQ.

()


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: DC Al Fine on May 11, 2013, 12:35:47 PM
Why would they use blue for the Liberals?


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: MaxQue on May 11, 2013, 01:09:52 PM
Even leading by 8, those subsamples aren't good for Liberals. They are just raking votes in seats they already hold. Anyways, government is stable, I don't see CAQ going for an election with those polls.

Does Doug Finlay was of any relation with Diane Finlay, MP for Haldimand-Norfolk?



Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: Marokai Backbeat on May 11, 2013, 01:27:52 PM
Those numbers aren't that good for anyone, really.


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: DC Al Fine on May 11, 2013, 01:57:46 PM
I know Preston has a Liberal MLA, but Paris is NDP and Black, and the only Black MP in Nova Scotia history (Gordon Earle) was also Black.  Did Preston (the community) go Liberal? I think it's in Peter Stoffer's federal riding, so they definitely vote NDP federally.

It was a split between Tory and Liberal actually*. Here are the poll by poll results http://electionsnovascotia.ca/results/09results/dist43.pdf (http://electionsnovascotia.ca/results/09results/dist43.pdf)

"Nelson Whynder Elementary" and "East Preston Recreation Centre" are in Preston. There are 6 polls and the Tories and Liberals each won 3. Federally, Preston voted about 2/3 NDP in 2011.


*Probably because we ran a fairly prominent member of the black community.


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: RogueBeaver on May 11, 2013, 01:57:59 PM
Even leading by 8, those subsamples aren't good for Liberals. They are just raking votes in seats they already hold. Anyways, government is stable, I don't see CAQ going for an election with those polls.

Does Doug Finlay was of any relation with Diane Finlay, MP for Haldimand-Norfolk?



Her husband.


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: Leftbehind on May 11, 2013, 05:05:59 PM
UM has almost finished imploding, with a few more councillors becoming independent.

Who?


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: RogueBeaver on May 11, 2013, 05:08:14 PM
Union Montreal, the now-dissolved party of former Montreal mayor Gerald Tremblay.

In federal news, Rae has been confirmed as the chief negotiator for Lake of Fire First Nations.

http://www.cbc.ca/news/canada/thunder-bay/story/2013/05/10/tby-bob-rae-first-nations-ring-of-fire.html


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: RogueBeaver on May 12, 2013, 08:58:42 PM
100% agreed with Ivison, as usual.

http://fullcomment.nationalpost.com/2013/05/12/pressure-mounts-to-reform-opaque-financial-system/?utm_source=dlvr.it&utm_medium=twitter


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: Hatman 🍁 on May 13, 2013, 08:16:18 AM
Those numbers aren't that good for anyone, really.

Not bad for QS, actually... I think.


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: RogueBeaver on May 13, 2013, 08:39:06 AM
Peter Worthington has died. RIP. :( Apparently he wrote his own obituary, which will appear in the Sun tomorrow.

http://www.thedailybeast.com/articles/2013/05/13/peter-worthington-1927-2013.html


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: DC Al Fine on May 13, 2013, 09:49:38 AM
Apologies if this was discussed a ways back. I found this chart from the Ipsos-Reid exit poll in 2011

()

Pretty standard stuff.

One idea occurs to me. The high Catholic NDP vote is undoubtedly influenced by the Orange Crush in Quebec. What do you guys think the Catholic vote would look like in English Canada?


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: RogueBeaver on May 13, 2013, 09:56:36 AM
Tory plurality, at least amongst the practicing.


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: Hatman 🍁 on May 13, 2013, 10:29:29 AM
Apologies if this was discussed a ways back. I found this chart from the Ipsos-Reid exit poll in 2011

()

Pretty standard stuff.

One idea occurs to me. The high Catholic NDP vote is undoubtedly influenced by the Orange Crush in Quebec. What do you guys think the Catholic vote would look like in English Canada?

Wish they had break down by visible minority. I know we have some data on that, but I wish we'd publish it.


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: RogueBeaver on May 13, 2013, 12:53:40 PM
Wynne said she hopes there isn't an election, Horwath will make her final budget demand tomorrow and then they'll start negotiating. Labour wants Horwath to pocket her gains, ditto Star and Globe. I still don't see a scenario where the NDP topples Wynne. Barring an election, Tories should ease off the accelerator a bit and send Hudak on the BBQ circuit. Has to get those personal negatives down if he wants better poll # and a clean shot next year or in 2015.

http://www.thestar.com/news/queenspark/2013/05/13/andrea_horwath_finding_out_that_propping_up_a_government_is_hard_to_do_cohn.html


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: RogueBeaver on May 14, 2013, 09:08:08 AM
Horwath's final demands: taking tolls and their taxes out of the budget or cancelling corporate tax cuts, wait till there's a comprehensive transit funding plan. Rules out a coalition with the Grits, not that it was ever on the table.


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: RogueBeaver on May 14, 2013, 09:26:42 AM
Worthington's self-obituary.

http://www.torontosun.com/2013/05/14/peter-worthington-in-his-own-words


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: Hash on May 14, 2013, 02:27:53 PM
The Purgatory war on science continues: http://www.slate.com/blogs/bad_astronomy/2013/05/13/canada_and_science_nrc_will_now_only_do_science_that_promotes_economic_gain.html?fb_ref=sm_fb_share_blogpost

Science is only good if you can make money off of it.


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: RogueBeaver on May 14, 2013, 05:51:13 PM
Brazeau is also fighting the expense audit. So these will have to be settled in court. Ideally there would be legislation setting a hard residency requirement of x days in the province you represent, more realistically we might get an end to the residency honour system. Has to be something much stricter.

http://www.thestar.com/news/canada/2013/05/14/senator_patrick_brazeau_to_fight_order_to_repay_48744_in_expenses.html?utm_source=twitterfeed&utm_medium=twitter


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: RogueBeaver on May 14, 2013, 07:04:47 PM
Apparently the Senate can seize the funds and will do so if not repaid when the report is adopted next week. To quote Mr. Burns, "Ex-ce-llent!"


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: RogueBeaver on May 14, 2013, 09:02:36 PM
Bob Fife will have new Senate revelations at 11, reaching to the "highest levels of government." Wonder what they'll be.


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: RogueBeaver on May 14, 2013, 09:09:57 PM
Nigel Wright brokered a deal while the audit was underway that he would help Duffy repay the money in exchange for going easy on him and reimbursing taxpayers. Jeebus.

http://www.ctvnews.ca/politics/duffy-made-secret-deal-with-harper-s-chief-of-staff-during-audit-1.1282015


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: RogueBeaver on May 15, 2013, 08:22:15 AM
2 new Ontario polls: I'll go with the pollster we've heard of. Abacus pegs 34-34-25.


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: RogueBeaver on May 15, 2013, 09:44:16 AM
Coderre leads the mayor's race with 34% to 22% for Bergeron and 19% for Harel. Huge # of undecideds, especially among non-Francos.

http://www.lapresse.ca/fichiers/4650915/municipale.pdf


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: Hatman 🍁 on May 15, 2013, 09:55:12 AM
Darn. Surprised Coderre is doing better among Francos than Anglos. I guess Undecideds would break to Coderre.

2 new Ontario polls: I'll go with the pollster we've heard of. Abacus pegs 34-34-25.

So, Liberal majority then? ;)


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: RogueBeaver on May 15, 2013, 10:04:51 AM
Also a huge undecided # in that category. As for Ontario, Forum pegged something similar a couple of weeks ago but translated it into a Liberal majority thanks to gains from the NDP. But on the flipside, why would Wynne make such an effort to keep Horwath onside if she thought a majority was possible? Sometimes leaders' behaviour can tell us something too, remember Quebec when Charest/Marois kept lurching between base and swing appeals?


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: RogueBeaver on May 15, 2013, 10:42:01 AM
Wright paid Duffy's expenses, 90k worth, from his personal account. Fife is a scoop machine.


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: RogueBeaver on May 15, 2013, 11:01:02 AM
PM didn't know about the Duffy gift.


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: RogueBeaver on May 15, 2013, 02:34:09 PM
Horwath's post-meeting presser seems rather inconclusive, said it's now in Wynne's hands.


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: RogueBeaver on May 15, 2013, 09:14:24 PM
Fife says Duffy told CTV that he repaid that money with an RBC loan, Wright wasn't involved, contradicting the PMO. They barely knew each other. Wright only informed Ethics Commish tonight about the purported loan. Since LeBreton said the money was repaid months ago... eesh.


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: 2952-0-0 on May 16, 2013, 02:49:21 AM
So when does Peter Penashue get appointed to the Senate?


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: RogueBeaver on May 16, 2013, 08:25:52 AM
Almost certainly no Ontario June election, as we expected. In other news, Vaillancourt tried to personally bribe Mulcair with a white envelope sometime in the '90s.  (http://www.lapresse.ca/actualites/politique-canadienne/201305/16/01-4651316-gilles-vaillancourt-aurait-tente-de-corrompre-thomas-mulcair.php)


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: Hatman 🍁 on May 16, 2013, 08:27:29 AM
So when does Peter Penashue get appointed to the Senate?

Whenever there is a vacancy in NL? :D

Wonder if he would get his cabinet spot back!


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: DC Al Fine on May 16, 2013, 10:22:32 AM
So when does Peter Penashue get appointed to the Senate?

Whenever there is a vacancy in NL? :D

Wonder if he would get his cabinet spot back!

2017, and there are much more deserving party hacks out there from Newfieland.


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: RogueBeaver on May 16, 2013, 11:57:02 AM
Senate will move in 2018 to the GCC for a decade while the Parliament Buildings are renovated.  (http://www.ottawacitizen.com/news/ottawa/Senate+take+over+Government+Conference+Centre+till+2028/8394750/story.html) Guessing Commons will also move out.


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: RogueBeaver on May 16, 2013, 06:22:12 PM
Wynne fired Godfrey from OLG and now the entire board of directors is quitting with him. LOL.


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: RogueBeaver on May 16, 2013, 07:45:08 PM
Duffy's out of the Tory caucus. Because of the double-dipping in 2011.


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: RogueBeaver on May 16, 2013, 09:06:04 PM
Another twist: Fife says Duffy attempted to influence the CRTC hearings on Sun Media mandatory carriage. Caucus was furious at him, both MPs and senators.

In other news, there won't be an LCBO strike.


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: RogueBeaver on May 17, 2013, 09:37:55 AM
Wynne is giving the Dippers what they want on accountability but still aren't backing down on transit funding.


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: Hatman 🍁 on May 17, 2013, 09:40:08 AM

In other news, there won't be an LCBO strike.

Something we can all be happy about. Liquor stores are an essential service don't you know. Let the teachers strike for weeks, but make sure we are well lubricated!

Wouldn't have been a problem for me though, it's not far to cross the border and get booze from a SAQ or dep.


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: Tetro Kornbluth on May 17, 2013, 10:25:38 AM
So Rob Ford...


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: RogueBeaver on May 17, 2013, 10:28:26 AM
Unless a media outlet gets the tape and verifies it...


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: Filuwaúrdjan on May 17, 2013, 12:58:07 PM

hahahahahahahahaha


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: MaxQue on May 17, 2013, 01:00:41 PM
It's ridiculous. Rob Ford has many faults, but I don't think he is a crack addict, of all things.


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: RogueBeaver on May 17, 2013, 01:01:46 PM
In the wake of another polling fiasco, here's a '62 article from Gwyn on our very first federal internal polls, done by the PCs. (http://news.google.com/newspapers?id=5GY_AAAAIBAJ&sjid=tlMMAAAAIBAJ&pg=5308,1273916&dq=scientific-election&hl=en) Less than 40% was supposed to yield 70-odd seats, yet obviously IRL they unfortunately got 116. H/T Delacourt's weekend column on pollmageddon. (http://www.thestar.com/news/insight/2013/05/17/why_do_pollsters_keep_getting_it_wrong.html) I agree with her that the focus has to be below the topline: demographics, geography, etc. Especially here in Quebec where you have to watch Francophone and regional breakdowns.


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: Filuwaúrdjan on May 17, 2013, 01:04:30 PM
Elijah Harper has died.


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: RogueBeaver on May 17, 2013, 01:10:07 PM
RIP.


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: MaxQue on May 17, 2013, 01:12:03 PM

I'll rather not comment.


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: Hatman 🍁 on May 17, 2013, 02:47:31 PM

Why, because he's a turncoat, or because him stalling constitutional talks?



It's pretty funny, but it would explain a lot. Reminds me of Rush Limbaugh.


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: Hatman 🍁 on May 17, 2013, 02:53:10 PM
http://www.buzzfeed.com/corinacorina/10-embarrassing-moments-from-toronto-mayor-rob-for-a4f9

Yeah, he's not crack at all...


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: MaxQue on May 17, 2013, 04:00:02 PM

Why, because he's a turncoat, or because him stalling constitutional talks?

Let's remember you I come a quite nationalist area and than the guy is hated for Meech. Less than Clyde Wells, through.


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: RogueBeaver on May 17, 2013, 05:14:24 PM
Wallin is also out of the Tory caucus.


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: Hatman 🍁 on May 17, 2013, 05:34:30 PM
Wallin is also out of the Tory caucus.

Wow. What's with former CTV journalists turned Conservative Senators?

Maybe to fill their vacancies, Harper will have to appoint Lloyd Robertson and Craig Oliver?


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: RogueBeaver on May 17, 2013, 05:52:44 PM
Apparently Brazeau told Solomon that he has written proof he was allowed to charge expenses now deemed bad. Guess we'll hear more about that next week, when Harper will be in South America.


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: RogueBeaver on May 17, 2013, 06:41:29 PM
Harper will be reading the riot act to caucus on Tuesday re spending.


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: RogueBeaver on May 17, 2013, 09:08:08 PM
Wallin will have to repay $60k before the audit, hundreds of thousands of dollars potentially at issue, RCMP will get the audit once it's complete.  As for Duffy, original report was much tougher, he sought an exemption, claimed his Ottawa residence for multiple purposes, was only in PEI during the summer. (http://www.ctvnews.ca/politics/damning-findings-removed-from-sen-mike-duffy-s-audit-report-documents-1.1286005) Legal letter between Wright and Duffy for that deal. Parliament might be prorogued in early June. To which I can only say WTF.



Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: RogueBeaver on May 17, 2013, 09:13:06 PM
Fife will have more on Sunday's QP, and Rempel will be on to answer some of those questions.

http://www.ctvnews.ca/politics/pamela-wallin-forced-out-of-tory-caucus-over-preliminary-audit-results-1.1286767


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: MaxQue on May 17, 2013, 09:21:29 PM
Harper was usually good in damage control, but he totally dropped it on Senate things.


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: RogueBeaver on May 17, 2013, 09:35:52 PM
There's increasingly explosive revelations every night on CTV, plus CBC might have more on Brazeau next week. Forget drip-drip-drip, more like BOOM-BOOM-BOOM. We can only wait to see what Fife says on Sunday, or if CBC reveals the Brazeau thing next week. Wonder if the next revelation is about "what Harper knew, and when did he know it?"



Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: RogueBeaver on May 17, 2013, 09:38:54 PM
MacDougall says no early June prorogation.


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: © tweed on May 17, 2013, 10:48:49 PM
Deadspin/Gawker is attempting to raise the $200k asked for by the owner of the Rob Ford crack smoking video.  donate here.

http://www.indiegogo.com/projects/rob-ford-crackstarter


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: Hatman 🍁 on May 17, 2013, 11:09:53 PM
Deadspin/Gawker is attempting to raise the $200k asked for by the owner of the Rob Ford crack smoking video.  donate here.

http://www.indiegogo.com/projects/rob-ford-crackstarter

W00T. the'yre at 40K.

I'm just loving this story btw. I like when a Canadian becomes internationally notorious, plus I like whenever Toronto gets looked down upon by the world.


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: MaxQue on May 18, 2013, 01:34:34 AM
Talking of Ford, Americans media decided to go on his case and list all the dumb/wierd/bad/whatever he ever said or done.

That's impressive!
Hopefully, Olivia Chow puts him outside of the city hall soon, but he is doing that alone right now, like a big boy.


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: RogueBeaver on May 18, 2013, 04:59:06 PM
Here's the Brazeau e-mail in question.  (http://www.cbc.ca/news/politics/story/2013/05/18/pol-the-house-senate-expenses-patrick-brazeau.html?cmp=rss) Senate won't say whether it was an authorization or not.


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: RogueBeaver on May 19, 2013, 08:04:16 AM
Nigel Wright has resigned.


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: RogueBeaver on May 19, 2013, 08:32:32 AM
Ray Novak is the new COS.


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: RogueBeaver on May 19, 2013, 10:38:08 AM
Fife says Parliament might be adjourned in early June, no prorogation till fall though.


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: RogueBeaver on May 19, 2013, 12:30:33 PM
MacDougall says session will continue till June 21.


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: DINGO Joe on May 19, 2013, 04:57:23 PM
I've probably paid more attention to Canada over the last week than the prior 5 years combined.  Keep up the good work!


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: Hatman 🍁 on May 20, 2013, 06:16:23 PM
Im looking forward to see if Colbert or Stewart say anything Monday about Ford.


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: RogueBeaver on May 20, 2013, 06:18:49 PM
Fife will have more Senate news tonight, and Duffy said to "stay tuned" for what he says on the Senate floor tomorrow.


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: RogueBeaver on May 20, 2013, 08:59:36 PM
Dippers are trying to soft sell Mulcair. (http://news.nationalpost.com/2013/05/20/hes-not-a-grizzly-bear-hes-a-cuddly-bear-mulcair-takes-a-softer-approach-in-new-ad-as-trudeaus-popularity-grows/?utm_source=dlvr.it&utm_medium=twitter)


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: RogueBeaver on May 20, 2013, 09:13:03 PM
Harper's former special counsel Ben Parrin, who left the PMO last month, drafted that secret agreement in February.  (http://www.ctvnews.ca/politics/pm-s-former-legal-advisor-arranged-deal-for-wright-to-give-duffy-90k-1.1289718) Tomorrow's caucus meeting at 9:30 will be open to the media. Apparently many MPs want the Senate to strip Brazeau/Duffy/Harb/Wallin of their pay and benefits. Senate takes up the audit debate tomorrow.


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: DC Al Fine on May 20, 2013, 09:30:48 PM
Harper's former special counsel Ben Parrin, who left the PMO last month, drafted that secret agreement in February.  (http://www.ctvnews.ca/politics/pm-s-former-legal-advisor-arranged-deal-for-wright-to-give-duffy-90k-1.1289718) Tomorrow's caucus meeting at 9:30 will be open to the media. Apparently many MPs want the Senate to strip Brazeau/Duffy/Harb/Wallin of their pay and benefits. Senate takes up the audit debate tomorrow.

There are still a few former reformers that remember the Triple-E senate. They must be going nuts right now.


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: RogueBeaver on May 21, 2013, 08:55:16 AM
Harper's address was boilerplate stuff: said he'd asked LeBreton to tighten expense rules, said that anyone who wanted to use public office for personal gain should leave the caucus room "right now." Recapped the government's efforts on the Senate file. No mention of Wright. Moore called on Duffy to resign his Senate seat.

In equally predictable news, Horwath will support the budget she co-authored.


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: RogueBeaver on May 21, 2013, 09:12:15 PM
MacDougall said Wright will have to explain the deal to Mary Dawson. Meanwhile the Duffy report has been formally moved back to Internal Economy. Meanwhile Harb and Cools were self-parodies, and I'll leave that there. One excellent idea comes, unsurprisingly, from Sheila Fraser: put parliamentary expenses under the AG's jurisdiction. I'd also like posting parliamentary expenses online, or at least easing the FOIA rules.



Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: DINGO Joe on May 21, 2013, 10:08:26 PM
Im looking forward to see if Colbert or Stewart say anything Monday about Ford.

Well you got your wish Tuesday night.  Smoking crack is Canada's heritage and national pastime.


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: Hatman 🍁 on May 22, 2013, 11:18:57 AM
The Rob Ford fund is going to be tight. They're at $110,000 with 6 days left.


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: RogueBeaver on May 22, 2013, 11:35:12 AM
Simpson's phoning it in as usual.  (http://www.theglobeandmail.com/commentary/for-conservatives-this-too-shall-pass-unless-it-doesnt/article12043923/)

Some high-profile BC Dippers want Dix out. I guess he'll quit soon enough. (http://bc.ctvnews.ca/former-ndp-mla-calls-for-dix-s-resignation-1.1291405)

Radwanski thinks Horwath stumbled on the budget. I'm of mixed feelings. (http://www.theglobeandmail.com/news/politics/horwath-stumbles-in-her-grand-gesture-to-support-budget/article12053995/)

Meanwhile we Montrealers, on top of everything else, are now under a 24-hour boil water advisory because of filtration problems. (http://montreal.ctvnews.ca/water-in-most-of-montreal-unsafe-to-drink-1.1291826)


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: RogueBeaver on May 22, 2013, 11:39:24 AM
Harper will be addressing the British Parliament before the G8 meeting. (http://blogs.wsj.com/canadarealtime/2013/05/22/canada-pm-to-address-u-k-lawmakers-next-month/) First Canadian PM to do so since King in '44.


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: RogueBeaver on May 22, 2013, 01:24:11 PM
Harper said that he didn't know about the deal and wouldn't have allowed it if he did, and that he's sorry for this happening. Meanwhile Duffy says he looks forward to justifying his expenses and basically calling this a witch hunt, like the equally deluded Harb and Cools yesterday. Here's the original report, H/T Glen McGregor. (http://blogs.ottawacitizen.com/2013/05/22/report-on-mike-duffy-expenses-the-pre-sanitized-version/)


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: RogueBeaver on May 22, 2013, 02:29:26 PM
Rob Ford is no longer a football coach. Meanwhile Baird was fairly defensive in QP, taking hits on oppo questions related to cheques, emails and the agreement. His monochromatic answer on waiting for Mary Dawson's report was eerily reminiscent of Brison's regarding Gomery during the Martin era. On the other side, LeBreton gave a speech which was part Senate history, part fiery partisanship (http://www.theglobeandmail.com/news/politics/conservative-senate-leader-says-party-not-getting-credit-for-expense-transparency/article12064003/?cmpid=rss1&utm_source=dlvr.it&utm_medium=twitter)- "Liberal media lickspittles", comparing her and Tory expenses to Liberals', etc.- and a call for disclosure rules similar to cabinet ministers'. Not the first time she's done this either. (http://blogs.ottawacitizen.com/2011/06/16/senatory-lebreton-and-the-media/)


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: RogueBeaver on May 22, 2013, 09:08:56 PM
Carolyn Stewart-Olsen and David Tkachuk ordered the doctoring of the Senate report. Government insiders are worried about what Duffy might say if he speaks out publicly.


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: DINGO Joe on May 23, 2013, 11:04:16 AM
The Rob Ford fund is going to be tight. They're at $110,000 with 6 days left.

They're at $135,000 with 4 1/2 days left.  Definitely on pace they just have to keep it going.

http://www.indiegogo.com/projects/rob-ford-crackstarter


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: Hatman 🍁 on May 23, 2013, 12:51:05 PM
The Rob Ford fund is going to be tight. They're at $110,000 with 6 days left.

They're at $135,000 with 4 1/2 days left.  Definitely on pace they just have to keep it going.

http://www.indiegogo.com/projects/rob-ford-crackstarter

Well, it'll likely slow down as they get closer to the deadline. That's why I think it's going to be tight.


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: © tweed on May 23, 2013, 01:51:07 PM
The Rob Ford fund is going to be tight. They're at $110,000 with 6 days left.

They're at $135,000 with 4 1/2 days left.  Definitely on pace they just have to keep it going.

http://www.indiegogo.com/projects/rob-ford-crackstarter

Well, it'll likely slow down as they get closer to the deadline. That's why I think it's going to be tight.

hopefully they'd have the dignity to contribute $20k or so to their own fund if it is close.  since they're socializing cost and privatizing profit.


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: RogueBeaver on May 23, 2013, 03:22:16 PM
Mounties want to look at the trio's expenses (http://www.theglobeandmail.com/news/politics/rcmp-looking-into-senate-expenses-scandal/article12100393/?cmpid=rss1). Meanwhile in polling news, Forum pegs the LPC with a big lead nationally (http://news.nationalpost.com/2013/05/23/trudeaus-liberals-hit-historic-highs-as-senate-scandal-has-drastic-effect-on-tories-poll/?utm_source=dlvr.it&utm_medium=twitter) while CROP sees both Liberal parties well ahead in Quebec with a closely divided Francophone electorate. (http://www.lapresse.ca/fichiers/4653443/sondage_-_intentions_de_vote_quebec_et_canada_mai_2013_.pdf) Too bad they didn't project. PQ is losing 17% of their former base voters to QS/ON.


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: RogueBeaver on May 23, 2013, 04:25:05 PM
I know Forum has a good provincial track record now, but I can only ROFLMAO when they claim the Grits tie us in ALBERTA.

http://www2.macleans.ca/2013/05/23/macleans-exclusive-david-tkachuk-on-mike-duffy-nigel-wright-and-the-senate-investigation/


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: RogueBeaver on May 23, 2013, 09:05:44 PM
RCMP has contacted the outside auditors.


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: Hatman 🍁 on May 24, 2013, 07:09:10 AM
Yeah, I'm a little poll fatigued at the moment.


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: Hatman 🍁 on May 24, 2013, 09:53:05 AM
Update on Fordgate: (Crackgate?)

Ford fired his chief of staff yesterday, apparently because he told Ford to "Go To Rehab".

Lovin' this.


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: politicus on May 24, 2013, 01:58:54 PM
Update on Fordgate: (Crackgate?)

Ford fired his chief of staff yesterday, apparently because he told Ford to "Go To Rehab".


LOL


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: MaxQue on May 24, 2013, 02:51:17 PM
Also, the executive council of Toronto, appointed by the mayor doesn't seem to support him anymore.

And Tyrone Benskin (NDP, Jeanne-Le Ber) was excluded from shadow cabinet after Mulcair learned in news than he didn't pay his provincial taxes between 2007 and 2011. He blamed it on being an artist and having no money to pay.


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: DC Al Fine on May 24, 2013, 02:58:17 PM
Also, the executive council of Toronto, appointed by the mayor doesn't seem to support him anymore.

And Tyrone Benskin (NDP, Jeanne-Le Ber) was excluded from shadow cabinet after Mulcair learned in news than he didn't pay his provincial taxes between 2007 and 2011. He blamed it on being an artist and having no money to pay.

Dude, come on. All the poors in regular jobs managed to to pay their taxes and survive.


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: Hatman 🍁 on May 24, 2013, 03:17:50 PM
Back to Crackgate. Ford held a press conference this afternoon stating "I do not use crack". Note the present tense in that statement :P


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: RogueBeaver on May 24, 2013, 03:19:25 PM
Ford denies all the allegations, but the executive committee will try and govern without him nonetheless. (http://www.cbc.ca/news/canada/story/2013/05/24/toronto-ford-newser.html)


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: Hatman 🍁 on May 24, 2013, 03:26:28 PM
Ford plan: Deny everything and hope the video isn't released.


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: MaxQue on May 24, 2013, 03:28:00 PM
Also, the executive council of Toronto, appointed by the mayor doesn't seem to support him anymore.

And Tyrone Benskin (NDP, Jeanne-Le Ber) was excluded from shadow cabinet after Mulcair learned in news than he didn't pay his provincial taxes between 2007 and 2011. He blamed it on being an artist and having no money to pay.

Dude, come on. All the poors in regular jobs managed to to pay their taxes and survive.

I only report what he said, it's not my opinion.


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: Hatman 🍁 on May 24, 2013, 03:34:45 PM
Also, the executive council of Toronto, appointed by the mayor doesn't seem to support him anymore.

And Tyrone Benskin (NDP, Jeanne-Le Ber) was excluded from shadow cabinet after Mulcair learned in news than he didn't pay his provincial taxes between 2007 and 2011. He blamed it on being an artist and having no money to pay.

Dude, come on. All the poors in regular jobs managed to to pay their taxes and survive.

I only report what he said, it's not my opinion.

Well, to be fair, many "poors" don't pay taxes for much the same reason.


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: DC Al Fine on May 24, 2013, 05:22:33 PM
Also, the executive council of Toronto, appointed by the mayor doesn't seem to support him anymore.

And Tyrone Benskin (NDP, Jeanne-Le Ber) was excluded from shadow cabinet after Mulcair learned in news than he didn't pay his provincial taxes between 2007 and 2011. He blamed it on being an artist and having no money to pay.

Dude, come on. All the poors in regular jobs managed to to pay their taxes and survive.

I only report what he said, it's not my opinion.

"Dude come on" is addressed @ Mr. Benskin.


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: RogueBeaver on May 24, 2013, 06:03:18 PM
OLP MPP Tarinder Takhar will retire at the next election. On that subject, new Ipsos/CTV poll has a 34/34/26 topline.  (http://toronto.ctvnews.ca/ontario-liberals-tories-in-dead-heat-new-poll-shows-1.1295787) Hudak definitely has to fix those toxic personals (how'd they appear?), plus lasso Blue Grits and swingy WWC populists.

Taxes: Mai also has unpaid taxes, but he disclosed them to Dawson and not to the public.

We also definitely need full expenses disclosure in both houses, not that we're ever gonna get them.  (http://o.canada.com/2013/05/23/pressure-builds-for-senators-mps-to-disclose-expenses-as-ministers-do/)


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: Thomas D on May 24, 2013, 06:59:02 PM
Update on Fordgate: (Crackgate?)

Ford fired his chief of staff yesterday, apparently because he told Ford to "Go To Rehab".


Lovin' this.

The Mayor responded by saying: " No no no."


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: Hatman 🍁 on May 24, 2013, 08:25:13 PM
Update on Fordgate: (Crackgate?)

Ford fired his chief of staff yesterday, apparently because he told Ford to "Go To Rehab".


Lovin' this.

The Mayor responded by saying: " No no no."


:D Funny, yes, but you're not the only one to think of that ;)


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: RogueBeaver on May 25, 2013, 12:20:38 PM
Doug and Randy Ford do have a drug dealing history.  (http://www.theglobeandmail.com/news/toronto/globe-investigation-the-ford-familys-history-with-drug-dealing/article12153014/?page=all)


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: Hatman 🍁 on May 25, 2013, 02:35:04 PM
Straight out of Breaking Bad.


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: Leftbehind on May 25, 2013, 05:24:47 PM
The Rob Ford fund is going to be tight. They're at $110,000 with 6 days left.

They're at $135,000 with 4 1/2 days left.  Definitely on pace they just have to keep it going.

http://www.indiegogo.com/projects/rob-ford-crackstarter

Well, it'll likely slow down as they get closer to the deadline. That's why I think it's going to be tight.

172k with 2 1/3 days left.


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: RogueBeaver on May 25, 2013, 07:04:13 PM
Been suspended because they lost contact with the dealer.


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: Leftbehind on May 25, 2013, 07:49:16 PM
:(


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: DC Al Fine on May 25, 2013, 10:08:17 PM
Been suspended because they lost contact with the dealer.

Aka, there's a fairly decent chance the tape never existed.


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: Smid on May 26, 2013, 05:05:08 AM
It's pretty disgusting the personal grubby tactics the left are using against Ford. This is the prime example - if it existed, then fair enough, but there was no evidence, but if you throw enough mud, some of it is going to stick. Can't beat him on policy, can't beat him legitimately politically, have to resort to these disgusting tactics. Racing down the track of US-style negative campaigns.


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: RogueBeaver on May 26, 2013, 07:27:00 AM
Unless the tape appears, all hearsay. But you'd also expect a libel suit... anyways, won't damage Rob Ford's electoral chances since his supporters certainly won't vote for his antithesis, urban progressives like Chow, Vaughan & Co. Doug Ford is a bigger problem since he's already been nominated by the PCs and last thing Hudak needs is a PR headache. Dumping him would damage Hudak's prospects among the very voters he needs to become premier- populist WWC.


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: Hatman 🍁 on May 26, 2013, 07:57:09 AM
Wonder if the Ford camp bought the tape? :(

This is terrible news.


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: DC Al Fine on May 26, 2013, 08:13:03 AM
Wonder if the Ford camp bought the tape? :(

This is terrible news.

::)


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: Leftbehind on May 26, 2013, 09:01:04 AM
Been suspended because they lost contact with the dealer.

Aka, there's a fairly decent chance the tape never existed.

So then what would be the point of it? They're not getting any money from it. The link mentions some have already seen it, including journalists (http://www.thestar.com/news/city_hall/2013/05/16/toronto_mayor_rob_ford_in_crack_cocaine_video_scandal.html) to verify it's real. Maybe the guy who had it got scared off.


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: Hash on May 26, 2013, 09:09:34 AM
I'm pretty sure 'we' can beat Ford on policy, given how incompetent and horrible he's been as mayor.


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: DC Al Fine on May 26, 2013, 11:54:21 AM
Been suspended because they lost contact with the dealer.

Aka, there's a fairly decent chance the tape never existed.

So then what would be the point of it? They're not getting any money from it. The link mentions some have already seen it, including journalists (http://www.thestar.com/news/city_hall/2013/05/16/toronto_mayor_rob_ford_in_crack_cocaine_video_scandal.html) to verify it's real. Maybe the guy who had it got scared off.

 "Mayor Smoking Crack" tends to sell newspapers. The Star is not known for being sympathetic to right wingers. I would expect similar scepticism if Fox said they saw a video of Obama smoking crack. I think this is a case of wishful thinking on the Star's part.


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: Hatman 🍁 on May 26, 2013, 12:50:53 PM
Wonder if the Ford camp bought the tape? :(

This is terrible news.

::)

The truth must be known. And for Ford's own health, this video needs to surface. He needs help.


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: Tetro Kornbluth on May 26, 2013, 12:56:46 PM
Wonder if the Ford camp bought the tape? :(

This is terrible news.

::)

The truth must be known. And for Ford's own health, this video needs to surface. He needs help.

Also, what would explain the most circulated screenshot?


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: Hatman 🍁 on May 26, 2013, 12:57:32 PM
Ford on the radio now: http://www.newstalk1010.com/player.aspx


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: MaxQue on May 27, 2013, 12:06:38 AM
Been suspended because they lost contact with the dealer.

Aka, there's a fairly decent chance the tape never existed.

So then what would be the point of it? They're not getting any money from it. The link mentions some have already seen it, including journalists (http://www.thestar.com/news/city_hall/2013/05/16/toronto_mayor_rob_ford_in_crack_cocaine_video_scandal.html) to verify it's real. Maybe the guy who had it got scared off.

 "Mayor Smoking Crack" tends to sell newspapers. The Star is not known for being sympathetic to right wingers. I would expect similar scepticism if Fox said they saw a video of Obama smoking crack. I think this is a case of wishful thinking on the Star's part.

Sure, and the left-wing Globe and Mail invented the drug dealing history of his family.
At best, he is a drunkard, and he stills needs help.


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: Hatman 🍁 on May 27, 2013, 06:39:55 AM
Not sure if you were being sarcastic, but that's the thing. The Globe is not a left wing paper. At best it's centrist, and a hack like me would usually describe it as a right wing rag.


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: politicus on May 27, 2013, 06:47:59 AM
Not sure if you were being sarcastic, but that's the thing. The Globe is not a left wing paper. At best it's centrist, and a hack like me would usually describe it as a right wing rag.

I think that was one of the most obvious cases of sarcasm I have seen on this forum.


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: Hatman 🍁 on May 27, 2013, 06:50:38 AM
Not sure if you were being sarcastic, but that's the thing. The Globe is not a left wing paper. At best it's centrist, and a hack like me would usually describe it as a right wing rag.

I think that was one of the most obvious cases of sarcasm I have seen on this forum.

*re reads* pfft yeah, you're right.  Problems with reading after just waking up...


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: Hatman 🍁 on May 27, 2013, 01:35:59 PM
Ford's Press Secretary and Deputy Press Secretary have resigned.


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: DINGO Joe on May 27, 2013, 10:41:56 PM
Gawker hit it's goal even though they've lost contact with the dealer.


And maybe the dealer who has the phone obtained it by killing the original owner, or so is the current rumors.  Toronto police seem to be involved in the hunt now.


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: MaxQue on May 28, 2013, 01:59:09 AM
Gawker hit it's goal even though they've lost contact with the dealer.


And maybe the dealer who has the phone obtained it by killing the original owner, or so is the current rumors.  Toronto police seem to be involved in the hunt now.

Doesn't the money will be given to a drug addiction center/charity in Toronto area, then?


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: Hatman 🍁 on May 28, 2013, 07:00:24 AM
Gawker hit it's goal even though they've lost contact with the dealer.


And maybe the dealer who has the phone obtained it by killing the original owner, or so is the current rumors.  Toronto police seem to be involved in the hunt now.

Is this a recent killing or that guy in the Ford picture?


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: DINGO Joe on May 28, 2013, 01:03:27 PM
I think this story is the basic source of all the rumors:

http://www.thestar.com/news/canada/2013/05/28/rob_ford_crack_scandal_fears_fords_aide_sought_video_spark_police_probe.html

Price contacted Towhey late on May 17 and asked “hypothetically” what if someone had told him where the video was. “What would we do?” Towhey was asked.

Towhey, a former military man and the most experienced official in Ford’s office, was alarmed at Price’s comments. Price went further and said, “What if a source has told me where the video might be found?”

Shocked, Towhey told Price that the only thing he would advise is going to the police. Price also said that the video may have been the reason that Anthony Smith, a person pictured in a photo with Ford, was killed.

Towhey’s response, according to sources, was to tell Price that he would be contacting police.


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: Filuwaúrdjan on May 28, 2013, 01:07:01 PM
This has got so dark. But is still funny, so that's alright.


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: RogueBeaver on May 28, 2013, 02:11:16 PM
Excellent leaders' portion of QP today. The extended Harper-Mulcair duel was riveting.


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: RogueBeaver on May 28, 2013, 09:28:01 PM
Duffy's expenses are being sent to the Mounties as expected, turns out he apparently *triple-dipped* in the last election. In other news, EU FTA is still rather shaky  (http://fullcomment.nationalpost.com/2013/05/28/john-ivison-duffy-scandal-has-weakened-canadas-negotiating-position-in-eu-trade-deal/?utm_source=dlvr.it&utm_medium=twitter) and unsurprisingly, Flaherty will be staying on till at least the end of this term.  (http://fullcomment.nationalpost.com/2013/05/28/john-ivison-jim-flaherty-wants-to-stay-on-as-finance-minister-until-deficit-eliminated/)


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: RogueBeaver on May 29, 2013, 09:10:20 AM
OLP has a big 416 lead. (http://www.thestar.com/news/canada/2013/05/28/poll_wynnes_liberals_holding_strong_in_toronto.html)


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: RogueBeaver on May 29, 2013, 12:49:00 PM
Henry Morgentaler has died.


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: Hatman 🍁 on May 29, 2013, 02:24:47 PM

Social conservatives celebrating? (Probably, and if so, ahh the irony)


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: Hatman 🍁 on May 29, 2013, 02:26:23 PM
OLP has a big 416 lead. (http://www.thestar.com/news/canada/2013/05/28/poll_wynnes_liberals_holding_strong_in_toronto.html)

Bad, bad news. I wonder if this whole Ford mess is hurting the provincial PCs?


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: DINGO Joe on May 29, 2013, 03:13:40 PM
Don't know how credible it is but there are rumors that the Ford folks are trying to destroy emails and phone records

http://www.thestar.com/news/gta/2013/05/29/rob_ford_former_staffers_email_telephone_records_ordered_destroyed_sources.html


I'm no expert, but I think emails are pretty hard to destroy


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: Hatman 🍁 on May 29, 2013, 05:55:53 PM
No, he's not guilty at all ::)


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: Hatman 🍁 on May 30, 2013, 11:40:59 AM
Apparently Ford's poll numbers had hit rock bottom long before the Crack issue, as evidenced by a new poll: http://www.thestar.com/news/gta/2013/05/27/mayor_rob_fords_popularity_unaffected_by_drug_allegations_and_denials_poll_finds.html

He would lose to Olivia Chow 56-36 in the next election.  And here I thought more than 1 in 3 Torontonians were morons.


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: Hatman 🍁 on May 30, 2013, 11:42:51 AM
This one's a doozy: "In a three-way contest between the mayor, Chow, and radio host John Tory, Chow wins with 42 per cent of the vote to about 27 per cent for Ford and 24 per cent for Tory."

LOL John Tory is such an epic fail that he is polling lower than Ford. When Conservatives are given the option to vote for a sane conservative, they still pick Ford over the fail boat captain.


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: Hash on May 30, 2013, 11:49:40 AM
Is this the usual stuff from posters, or is there serious speculation about John 'por favor' Tory actually running?

He hosts a radio show now? It's interesting how radio/television gigs are the main retirement options for failed politicians.


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: RogueBeaver on May 30, 2013, 01:09:38 PM
Thankfully, PCs are dropping Doug Ford- or more precisely, not clearing the field for him. (http://www.theglobeandmail.com/news/politics/ontario-pcs-doug-ford-not-our-candidate/article12264201/?cmpid=rss1&utm_source=dlvr.it&utm_medium=twitter)


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: DINGO Joe on May 30, 2013, 01:43:40 PM
Ford's executive assistant quit today and his advisor on council relations was escorted out of the building by security (aka--fired--nope resigned on his own and was escorted out)

http://www.thestar.com/news/city_hall/2013/05/30/rob_ford_video_scandal_another_staffer_resigns.html


Ford is also reported to have told senior staff that he knew where the video was and not to worry about it

http://www.thestar.com/news/gta/2013/05/30/rob_ford_video_scandal_mayor_ford_said_he_knew_where_video_was_sources_say

An arrest has been made in the killing of man appearing in photo with Rob Ford, that man possibly being the original owner of the phone

http://www.thestar.com/news/crime/2013/05/30/rob_ford_video_scandal_second_arrest_in_murder_of_man_who_appears_in_photo_with_mayor_rob_ford.html

Lastly, there are reports that Ford has pushed his desk in front of his office door and said "You'll never take me alive"








OK, I made the last one up.


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: DINGO Joe on May 30, 2013, 02:05:36 PM
Ford's staff is down to 12 and that includes 3 recent hires:

David Price--family friend
Brandon Croskerry--27 year old singer-songwriter
JC Hasko-- 21-year-old Don Bosco Eagles assistant football coach and a personal trainer

Oh well, it's not like Toronto is a major city or anything.




Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: RogueBeaver on May 30, 2013, 02:09:12 PM
CBC: Duffy wanted to be a minister and also wanted extra compensation on top of the usual senatorial pay. ROFLMAO.


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: DINGO Joe on May 30, 2013, 02:33:59 PM
CBC: Duffy wanted to be a minister and also wanted extra compensation on top of the usual senatorial pay. ROFLMAO.

Maybe Duffy could get a job in Toronto Mayor's office, Ford is apparently hiring.


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: Hatman 🍁 on May 30, 2013, 02:36:21 PM
Ford's staff is down to 12 and that includes 3 recent hires:

David Price--family friend
Brandon Croskerry--27 year old singer-songwriter
JC Hasko-- 21-year-old Don Bosco Eagles assistant football coach and a personal trainer

Oh well, it's not like Toronto is a major city or anything.




LOL. Who is the 2nd person?

Thankfully, PCs are dropping Doug Ford- or more precisely, not clearing the field for him. (http://www.theglobeandmail.com/news/politics/ontario-pcs-doug-ford-not-our-candidate/article12264201/?cmpid=rss1&utm_source=dlvr.it&utm_medium=twitter)

If it's not just partisan BS, I applaud the way the Tories nominate candidates, by not parachuting them it, etc. Having said that, it would be hilarious if Doug Ford won the nomination. He's probably still very popular in his riding...


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: RogueBeaver on May 30, 2013, 02:49:14 PM
Wynne says she's very concerned but "there is no clear path for the province to intervene." She's probably referring to the Municipal Act's extremely murky Section 451.1 highlighted by Kinsella earlier this week. "If the Lieutenant Governor in Council considers that it is necessary or desirable in the provincial interest to do so, the Lieutenant Governor in Council may make regulations imposing limits and conditions on the powers of a municipality under sections 9, 10 and 11 or Part IV or providing that a municipality cannot exercise the powers in prescribed circumstances." (http://www.e-laws.gov.on.ca/html/statutes/english/elaws_statutes_01m25_e.htm#BK15)


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: DINGO Joe on May 30, 2013, 04:07:08 PM
Ford's staff is down to 12 and that includes 3 recent hires:

David Price--family friend
Brandon Croskerry--27 year old singer-songwriter
JC Hasko-- 21-year-old Don Bosco Eagles assistant football coach and a personal trainer

Oh well, it's not like Toronto is a major city or anything.




LOL. Who is the 2nd person?



He has his own wiki page.

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Brendan_Croskerry

Really a songwriter.  Really one of the final 12.


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: RogueBeaver on May 30, 2013, 07:59:22 PM
Duffstuff continues to be absurd (http://www.cbc.ca/news/politics/story/2013/05/30/pol-senate-mike-duffy-email-.html). In a similar vein, Dippers aren't the only ones with QC tax problems, though of course Soudas no longer works in the PMO. (http://www.ipolitics.ca/2013/05/30/former-harper-stalwart-had-tax-problems-of-his-own/) This would've been Strike 2 after Abdallah at the Port.


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: MaxQue on May 30, 2013, 11:13:23 PM
Does filling Quebec tax forms is that difficult?


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: Hatman 🍁 on May 31, 2013, 10:33:34 AM
More crack gate developments: http://www.nationalpost.com/m/wp/posted-toronto/blog.html?b=news.nationalpost.com/2013/05/30/rob-ford-crack-drama-takes-a-surreal-turn-on-dixon-road



Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: RogueBeaver on May 31, 2013, 03:15:36 PM
Bilingualism survey is out.  (http://www.ledevoir.com/documents/pdf/bilinguismemai2013.pdf) Increase in Quebec, decrease in ROC, unsurprisingly.


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: Hatman 🍁 on May 31, 2013, 03:16:20 PM
Interesting write up by Nate Silver of all people as to why Canada hasn't won the Stanley Cup in 20 years: http://fivethirtyeight.blogs.nytimes.com/2013/05/31/why-cant-canada-win-the-stanley-cup/?smid=tw-fivethirtyeight&seid=auto


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: RogueBeaver on May 31, 2013, 03:32:01 PM
More municipal godawfulness: Laval's current mayor has been named at Charbonneau and has asked the government to place Laval under trusteeship.  (http://www.radio-canada.ca/nouvelles/Politique/2013/05/31/001-maire-laval-alexandre-duplessis-claire-lebel-commission-charbonneau.shtml) He's "reconsidering" his plan to run for a full term this year, obviously. He's from Vaillancourt's PRO party.


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: RogueBeaver on May 31, 2013, 04:53:25 PM
Brazeau used taxpayer money to defend himself in the audit.  (http://globalnews.ca/news/605748/brazeau-billed-taxpayers-for-legal-defence-of-inappropriate-housing-claims/)


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: 2952-0-0 on June 01, 2013, 01:36:16 AM
Does anyone have the suspicion that Harper leaked the Duffy emails to ensure Duffy takes all the blame and limit the attention at himself?


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: DC Al Fine on June 01, 2013, 12:08:01 PM
Does anyone have the suspicion that Harper leaked the Duffy emails to ensure Duffy takes all the blame and limit the attention at himself?

Not really, but who knows. Something I've noticed is that the left usually likes to label their opponents as stupid if they're on the attack. Harper is weird because the usual criticism seems to imply that he's an evil genius ;)


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: RogueBeaver on June 01, 2013, 12:53:41 PM
Marois' Cabinet is a complete mess, badly divided on predictable pragmatic/hardline lines. (http://plus.lapresse.ca/screens/4cad-93e4-51a8b693-a42e-2213ac1c606d%7C_0)


I looked around the Radio-Canada archives this morning and found the leaders'  (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=c0Z8nr5rKdk) first French interviews  (http://archives.radio-canada.ca/societe/criminalite_justice/clips/15816/) if anyone's interested.  (http://archives.radio-canada.ca/societe/education/clips/15841/)


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: DC Al Fine on June 01, 2013, 03:43:00 PM
I'm going to do a profile of the upcoming NS election (Fall 2013/Spring 2014). Is now a good time or should I wait till after summer?


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: RogueBeaver on June 01, 2013, 03:59:11 PM
IMO closer to fall, but entirely your call obviously.


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: DC Al Fine on June 01, 2013, 05:53:38 PM
Fair enough. Might as well start working on it now.


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: RogueBeaver on June 02, 2013, 12:22:40 PM
Today's QP panel: for the first time, caucus is thinking about a post-Harper future. Idle thoughts for now. (http://www.ctvnews.ca/video?clipId=938782&playlistId=1.1307496&binId=1.811561&playlistPageNum=1) No one has the faintest clue as to why Wright did what he did. Also shuffle will be even bigger than thought thanks to the scandal.


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: RogueBeaver on June 03, 2013, 02:06:19 PM
Fife: RCMP is probing the Wright-Duffy payment.


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: RogueBeaver on June 03, 2013, 02:46:41 PM
LeBreton will ask the AG to probe all Senate expenses. Long overdue IMO.


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: DC Al Fine on June 03, 2013, 03:52:15 PM
Elections NS has published the notional results of the new riding boundaries. (http://electionsnovascotia.ca/pdf/news%20release/Final%20Vote%20Redistribution%20according%20to%202012-ED%20-%20GE%20and%20By%20Elections%202009-2012.pdf)

Note: The Liberals would have won a by-election in Inverness had the new boundaries been used.


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: RogueBeaver on June 03, 2013, 05:00:07 PM
Harper will be in Europe next week.


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: RogueBeaver on June 04, 2013, 02:08:52 PM
Glover and Bezan have some campaign finance disputes with EC to clear up. Glover's court hearing is June 21, dunno about Bezan. (http://o.canada.com/2013/06/04/two-tory-mps-could-be-suspended-from-house-of-commons-in-showdown-over-election-filings/)


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: Peter the Lefty on June 04, 2013, 03:53:22 PM
This is nauseating.  http://news.nationalpost.com/2013/06/03/sikh-kids-who-want-to-play-soccer-wearing-turbans-should-play-in-their-backyards-quebec-soccer-federation/ (http://news.nationalpost.com/2013/06/03/sikh-kids-who-want-to-play-soccer-wearing-turbans-should-play-in-their-backyards-quebec-soccer-federation/)

Quote
The federation held a Monday teleconference to explain its weekend decision to uphold a ban on turbans that is unique in the country.

Brigitte Frot, the director-general of the provincial association, was asked what she would tell a five-year-old boy in a turban who shows up to register to play soccer with his friends.

She replied: “They can play in their backyard. But not with official referees, not in the official rules of soccer. They have no choice.”

Quote
The soccer federation explains the ban as an issue of player safety.

When asked, however, how many injuries have actually been linked to turbans Frot replied that the association doesn’t have money to commission studies. There have been no injuries, as far as she’s aware, she said.

“The point is we don’t know and because we don’t know we don’t want to take any chances,” Frot said.

Quote
Frot was asked whether the move was racist and she said she disagreed with the question. When asked whether it might at least be construed as intolerant, she offered a “no comment.”

Quebec is the only province where this is an issue.


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: DC Al Fine on June 04, 2013, 05:11:58 PM
This is nauseating.  http://news.nationalpost.com/2013/06/03/sikh-kids-who-want-to-play-soccer-wearing-turbans-should-play-in-their-backyards-quebec-soccer-federation/ (http://news.nationalpost.com/2013/06/03/sikh-kids-who-want-to-play-soccer-wearing-turbans-should-play-in-their-backyards-quebec-soccer-federation/)

Quote
The federation held a Monday teleconference to explain its weekend decision to uphold a ban on turbans that is unique in the country.

Brigitte Frot, the director-general of the provincial association, was asked what she would tell a five-year-old boy in a turban who shows up to register to play soccer with his friends.

She replied: “They can play in their backyard. But not with official referees, not in the official rules of soccer. They have no choice.”

Quote
The soccer federation explains the ban as an issue of player safety.

When asked, however, how many injuries have actually been linked to turbans Frot replied that the association doesn’t have money to commission studies. There have been no injuries, as far as she’s aware, she said.

“The point is we don’t know and because we don’t know we don’t want to take any chances,” Frot said.

Quote
Frot was asked whether the move was racist and she said she disagreed with the question. When asked whether it might at least be construed as intolerant, she offered a “no comment.”

Quebec is the only province where this is an issue.

The french nationalist vibe can go overboard at times.


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: RogueBeaver on June 04, 2013, 05:15:10 PM
The Rob Ford video might have disappeared, and the Senate ethics probe into Duffy has been suspended till the RCMP investigation is complete. Meanwhile Ivison suggests there might be an ethics package coming this fall. (http://fullcomment.nationalpost.com/2013/06/04/john-ivison-things-look-bad-for-the-tories-but-theres-life-yet-in-the-harper-conservatives/?utm_source=dlvr.it&utm_medium=twitter)


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: RogueBeaver on June 04, 2013, 05:38:12 PM
At the upcoming Tory convention, no policy resolutions of note except that perennial Blue-Red football known as the leadership election mechanism: weighted system was part of the merger agreement but Blues want OMOV. Personally I don't care either way, it'll survive till Harper leaves but whether it survives afterwards is an open question.

Turbans: They'll change it if FIFA tells them to.


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: Hatman 🍁 on June 04, 2013, 07:56:58 PM
I'm with the Blues, I guess.


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: RogueBeaver on June 04, 2013, 08:11:07 PM
Final F-35 decision will be made by the PM and Cabinet without civil service advice. (http://www.hilltimes.com/news/politics/2013/06/04/pm-cabinet-to-decide-on-f-35-fighter-jets-without-advice-from-public-works/34950)

Turbans: I disagree with the ban, but here's Andrew Potter on the different conceptions of secularism in Quebec and ROC. (http://www2.canada.com/ottawacitizen/news/archives/story.html?id=e5463e4e-db62-44d8-8042-3ea839be81b1&p=1)

In non-political news, Despatie retired today, said TV will be his next gig. My bet is that potential memoir aside, we haven't seen the last of him. Or at least we can hope. :P

Voting: Won't make a difference in any leadership matchup anyways, so I don't really understand why both sides are making such a BFD about it. Though I'd be most curious to know what Moore's position is.


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: DC Al Fine on June 04, 2013, 08:52:25 PM
Voting: Won't make a difference in any leadership matchup anyways, so I don't really understand why both sides are making such a BFD about it. Though I'd be most curious to know what Moore's position is.

In the Maritimes it's a pretty blatant case of "we don't want to lose influence".


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: RogueBeaver on June 04, 2013, 09:05:01 PM
We definitely need to improve our Maritime bench in 2015. Truth be told I have my doubts MacKay even runs when the time comes, for fairly obvious reasons.


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: DC Al Fine on June 04, 2013, 09:26:58 PM
We definitely need to improve our Maritime bench in 2015. Truth be told I have my doubts MacKay even runs when the time comes, for fairly obvious reasons.

Indeed. Brison always struck me as the heavyweight in NS conservatism. To be fair to the Maritimes, we only have 13 MP's. There's more selection among MP's from Calgary than New Brunswick :P


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: Njall on June 05, 2013, 12:37:48 AM
We definitely need to improve our Maritime bench in 2015. Truth be told I have my doubts MacKay even runs when the time comes, for fairly obvious reasons.

Indeed. Brison always struck me as the heavyweight in NS conservatism. To be fair to the Maritimes, we only have 13 MP's. There's more equal* selection among MP's from Calgary than New Brunswick :P

*Calgary has 8  MP's :p


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: Hatman 🍁 on June 05, 2013, 08:25:28 AM
We definitely need to improve our Maritime bench in 2015. Truth be told I have my doubts MacKay even runs when the time comes, for fairly obvious reasons.

Doesn't he want to be leader?


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: RogueBeaver on June 05, 2013, 08:55:16 AM
"Wants" and "Has anywhere near the #" are 2 different things. ;)


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: RogueBeaver on June 05, 2013, 09:05:01 AM
In more immediate news, redistribution could cause some intra-Tory battles, particularly in Alberta. (http://www.theglobeandmail.com/news/politics/redrawn-alberta-ridings-could-lead-to-tory-showdowns/article12356529/)


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: Hatman 🍁 on June 05, 2013, 02:29:30 PM
In more immediate news, redistribution could cause some intra-Tory battles, particularly in Alberta. (http://www.theglobeandmail.com/news/politics/redrawn-alberta-ridings-could-lead-to-tory-showdowns/article12356529/)

There'll be plenty of seats to go around, since there'll be an increase in seats. It just means some MPs might end up running in ridings that don't correspond well to their previous ridings.


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: RogueBeaver on June 05, 2013, 04:55:34 PM
Another IR PMB in the pipeline, (http://www.stephentaylor.ca/2013/06/secret-ballot-private-members-bill-tabled-in-the-house-of-commons/) this one to guarantee a secret ballot for union elections. Wonder if the PM gives his tacit support to this one too.


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: RogueBeaver on June 05, 2013, 09:39:28 PM
Brent Rathgeber, Tory MP for Edmonton-St. Albert, has resigned from caucus due to the government's "lack of commitment to transparency" and will sit as an Indie. (http://www.ctvnews.ca/politics/mp-brent-rathgeber-resigns-from-conservative-caucus-1.1313329)


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: RogueBeaver on June 05, 2013, 09:43:22 PM
Watering down of his transparency bill, specifically provisions to disclose bureaucrats' and CBC salaries, are among his reasons.


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: RogueBeaver on June 05, 2013, 09:57:10 PM
PMO wants him to resign and run in a by-election.


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: RogueBeaver on June 05, 2013, 11:18:36 PM
Peter Goldring will be in court tomorrow on his DUI charge. (http://www.edmontonjournal.com/news/Decision+Edmonton+court+Peter+Goldring/8484411/story.html)


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: MaxQue on June 05, 2013, 11:18:57 PM
Talking of that, can he win an election as an independant?


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: RogueBeaver on June 05, 2013, 11:24:36 PM
I don't think either of them can. Alberta's far too blue and as far as I know neither are local rock stars a la Bill Casey. Goldring previously said he'd retire but now says he'd like to rejoin caucus if cleared. So depends what happens in his trial.


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: 2952-0-0 on June 06, 2013, 02:08:04 AM
PMO wants him to resign and run in a by-election.

...like how David Emerson and Wajid Khan switched to the Conservatices?


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: RogueBeaver on June 06, 2013, 07:34:50 AM
Peter MacKay says he might leave the party if the leadership election mechanism is changed. (http://fullcomment.nationalpost.com/2013/06/06/john-ivison-peter-mackay-would-consider-leaving-conservatives-if-leadership-selection-rules-changed/) As I suspected, insiders don't think he'd contest the leadership when it happens. I'm also guessing Harper isn't amused by MacKay's statements.


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: RogueBeaver on June 06, 2013, 10:59:52 AM
Tory MPs have been told in caucus that they'll soon have to disclose all spending. Long overdue. Meanwhile Goldring says he'd consider joining the Liberals if he wins the court case but still isn't allowed back in caucus. (http://blogs.ottawacitizen.com/2013/06/06/with-breath-test-judgment-pending-goldring-ready-to-sit-as-a-liberal/)


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: RogueBeaver on June 06, 2013, 11:29:38 AM
Wallin audit might not be released before fall. (http://www.cbc.ca/news/politics/story/2013/06/06/pol-wallin-audit-senate-tkachuk.html)


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: Hatman 🍁 on June 06, 2013, 12:17:17 PM
Tory MPs have been told in caucus that they'll soon have to disclose all spending. Long overdue. Meanwhile Goldring says he'd consider joining the Liberals if he wins the court case but still isn't allowed back in caucus. (http://blogs.ottawacitizen.com/2013/06/06/with-breath-test-judgment-pending-goldring-ready-to-sit-as-a-liberal/)

lol wut. Because the Liberals are the party of Libertarianism?


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: RogueBeaver on June 06, 2013, 12:58:19 PM
He also raises the national unity issue. Besides, the Liberals are closer to us economically.


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: DC Al Fine on June 06, 2013, 01:08:58 PM
Tory MPs have been told in caucus that they'll soon have to disclose all spending. Long overdue. Meanwhile Goldring says he'd consider joining the Liberals if he wins the court case but still isn't allowed back in caucus. (http://blogs.ottawacitizen.com/2013/06/06/with-breath-test-judgment-pending-goldring-ready-to-sit-as-a-liberal/)

lol wut. Because the Liberals are the party of Libertarianism?

Being an independent MP gets lonely I guess.


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: RogueBeaver on June 06, 2013, 02:14:32 PM
Curiously enough there was only a cursory reference to Rathgeber and zero references to MacKay. Mulcair still plowing ahead with his prosecutorial Duffy questions.


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: RogueBeaver on June 06, 2013, 03:25:26 PM
Goldring has been found not guilty, so will Harper let him back into caucus? (http://www.cbc.ca/news/canada/edmonton/story/2013/06/06/edmonton-mp-goldring-verdict-refusing-to-blow.html)


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: Hatman 🍁 on June 06, 2013, 03:44:51 PM
Goldring would get his [INKS] handed to him if he ran as a Liberal.


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: RogueBeaver on June 06, 2013, 04:07:20 PM
Per Greg Weston, there's a secret PMO fund run by the COS with party funds, who has exclusive signing authority. Government says that's used to cover expenses which shouldn't be covered by taxpayers.

Update: Party says all those funds are reported to Elections Canada. The other parties have discretionary funds too. (http://www.thestarphoenix.com/touch/story.html?id=8490346)


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: RogueBeaver on June 06, 2013, 04:50:41 PM
The Atlantic Grit surge continues, this time in NB: CRA pegs 41 Liberal, 29 PC, 27 NDP. (http://cra.ca/popularity-of-nb-liberals-growing/)


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: RogueBeaver on June 06, 2013, 05:48:35 PM
Goldring has been readmitted to caucus.


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: DC Al Fine on June 06, 2013, 05:55:41 PM
The Atlantic Grit surge continues, this time in NB: CRA pegs 41 Liberal, 29 PC, 27 NDP. (http://cra.ca/popularity-of-nb-liberals-growing/)

Strong numbers for the NB NDP as well. CRA should be releasing their NS poll soon :)


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: Hatman 🍁 on June 06, 2013, 06:07:31 PM
The Atlantic Grit surge continues, this time in NB: CRA pegs 41 Liberal, 29 PC, 27 NDP. (http://cra.ca/popularity-of-nb-liberals-growing/)

Strong numbers for the NB NDP as well. CRA should be releasing their NS poll soon :)

LOL at those PC numbers.

I'm dreading the NS ones :(


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: 2952-0-0 on June 06, 2013, 07:15:05 PM
Rathgeber's statement carefully blamed a group of PMO staffers for prompting him to quit, and not Harper himself. He even states he believes Harper's professed ignorance about the $90000 cheque.

On second thought I think this is worse than not resigning at all. It seems like he's leaving the door open to rejoin the CPC Caucus under Harper at some point in the future. ::)


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: DC Al Fine on June 06, 2013, 07:16:47 PM
The Atlantic Grit surge continues, this time in NB: CRA pegs 41 Liberal, 29 PC, 27 NDP. (http://cra.ca/popularity-of-nb-liberals-growing/)

Strong numbers for the NB NDP as well. CRA should be releasing their NS poll soon :)

LOL at those PC numbers.

I'm dreading the NS ones :(

If it makes you feel any better, all three parties in NS are self interested parochial outfits anyways :P


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: RogueBeaver on June 06, 2013, 09:05:24 PM
Fife: Wallin will have to repay at least $20k more, just last month she paid $8k for improper claims on a Western personal trip. Audit will be finished mid-summer.


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: MaxQue on June 06, 2013, 11:26:28 PM
The Atlantic Grit surge continues, this time in NB: CRA pegs 41 Liberal, 29 PC, 27 NDP. (http://cra.ca/popularity-of-nb-liberals-growing/)

Strong numbers for the NB NDP as well. CRA should be releasing their NS poll soon :)

LOL at those PC numbers.

I'm dreading the NS ones :(

If it makes you feel any better, all three parties in NS are self interested parochial outfits anyways :P


As I once said, NS NDP is center-center-left, NS Libs are center-center-center and NS PC are center-center-right.


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: Hatman 🍁 on June 07, 2013, 07:00:32 AM
The Atlantic Grit surge continues, this time in NB: CRA pegs 41 Liberal, 29 PC, 27 NDP. (http://cra.ca/popularity-of-nb-liberals-growing/)

Strong numbers for the NB NDP as well. CRA should be releasing their NS poll soon :)

LOL at those PC numbers.

I'm dreading the NS ones :(

If it makes you feel any better, all three parties in NS are self interested parochial outfits anyways :P


Well, the NDP less so. And they're actually trying to do something about the deficit there, and are willing to become extremely unpopular in doing so. Outside of Ontario and BC, whenever the NDP gets elected is when government actually becomes effective. Not to say the NDP government there has been flawless.


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: RogueBeaver on June 07, 2013, 11:58:00 AM
95k net new full-time jobs created, 55 of them youth. EUFTA won't be announced next week, but Harper will meet the Queen.


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: RogueBeaver on June 08, 2013, 12:56:55 PM
Harb could have to repay up to $200k. (http://www.theglobeandmail.com/news/politics/senate-repayment-amounts-from-harb-wallin-could-rise/article12437318/#dashboard/follows/)


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: RogueBeaver on June 09, 2013, 10:59:20 AM
Ivison says Flaherty "almost certainly" isn't running in 2015. Harper's not amused by Flaherty's public campaign to keep his job, but since the rule is retirees get dropped, Flaherty may quit rather than serving out the term as a backbencher. Oliver thinks the shuffle might be later rather than sooner, but he's the standout. Harper did his last mini-shuffle in July, and the new ministers will need a couple of months to learn their portfolios. So I'm guessing mid-late July. If Flaherty leaves Finance, I'd peg Clement as his replacement.


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: DC Al Fine on June 09, 2013, 12:19:23 PM
Ivison says Flaherty "almost certainly" isn't running in 2015. Harper's not amused by Flaherty's public campaign to keep his job, but since the rule is retirees get dropped, Flaherty may quit rather than serving out the term as a backbencher. Oliver thinks the shuffle might be later rather than sooner, but he's the standout. Harper did his last mini-shuffle in July, and the new ministers will need a couple of months to learn their portfolios. So I'm guessing mid-late July. If Flaherty leaves Finance, I'd peg Clement as his replacement.

It'll be strange not having Flaherty at finance. Is there anyone else from the original cabinet still in their old portfolio?


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: RogueBeaver on June 09, 2013, 12:35:28 PM
LeBreton's the only other one.


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: RogueBeaver on June 09, 2013, 01:17:49 PM
From the same Scrum: O'Connor is a martinet and Van Loan is the most reviled member of caucus. Neither particularly surprising IMO. (http://www.ctvnews.ca/video?clipId=943379&playlistId=1.1317845&binId=1.811561&playlistPageNum=1)


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: RogueBeaver on June 10, 2013, 10:43:17 AM
Here's the NS poll we've been waiting for: Grits 45, NDP/PC 26 (http://cra.ca/ns-liberals-widen-lead-although-many-voters-still-undecided/). Meanwhile in NL the Tories have slumped into a distant third at 27, with Dippers at 37 and Grits at 36. (http://cra.ca/support-for-governing-pc%e2%80%99s-continues-to-deteriorate-in-nl//) Dunderdale tied with Marois at 2-1 disapproval. My own post-BC assumption is that regardless of polls, provincial incumbents win unless the votes say otherwise.


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: Hatman 🍁 on June 10, 2013, 12:41:23 PM
What the heck is happening in NL ???

And NS is very disappointing, but to be expected I guess.


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: RogueBeaver on June 10, 2013, 03:48:12 PM
Ivison follows up on yesterday's QP by suggesting that backbench discontent could be soothed by moving Van Loan and O'Connor. (http://fullcomment.nationalpost.com/2013/06/10/john-ivison-cabinet-shuffle-could-be-what-saves-harpers-government-from-the-noose/) I agree 100%, question is who'd replace them. Said people have to be firm yet understanding, among other things. I can think of people who are too firm and people who are too soft.

Budget has been passed. (http://o.canada.com/2013/06/10/budget-bill-passes-removing-last-hurdle-to-house-rising/)


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: DC Al Fine on June 10, 2013, 04:18:09 PM
My guesstimate of the NS #'s

Liberal: 31
NDP: 13
PC: 7

The Liberals sweep the province. The NDP maintains their urban Halifax stronghold but loses the suburbs. The Tories are scattered across the province, with a notable stronghold in Cumberland County.


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: RogueBeaver on June 10, 2013, 08:15:30 PM
Canadian Soccer Federation is expelling the QSF for their turban ban.


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: RogueBeaver on June 11, 2013, 10:26:57 AM
Scheer will wait for the courts to sort out Glover and Bezan's expenses before ruling. (http://www.hilltimes.com/news/politics/2013/06/11/house-speaker-scheer-to-wait-until-courts-decide-on-two-tory-mps-despite-push-from/35024)


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: Hatman 🍁 on June 11, 2013, 11:15:50 AM
Canadian Soccer Federation is expelling the QSF for their turban ban.

lol. Excellent.


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: RogueBeaver on June 11, 2013, 11:27:03 AM
Quebec will soon legalize assisted suicide with all party support in the Assembly and largely supportive public opinion. (http://fullcomment.nationalpost.com/2013/06/10/ottawa-unlikely-to-stop-pqs-bid-to-legalize-assisted-suicide/) Doubtful Ottawa appeals to the Supremes. I'm neither surprised about their initiative nor supportive myself.


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: DC Al Fine on June 11, 2013, 01:11:06 PM
Quebec will soon legalize assisted suicide with all party support in the Assembly and largely supportive public opinion. (http://fullcomment.nationalpost.com/2013/06/10/ottawa-unlikely-to-stop-pqs-bid-to-legalize-assisted-suicide/) Doubtful Ottawa appeals to the Supremes. I'm neither surprised about their initiative nor supportive myself.

Kind of surprised none of the parties are voting against it. I figured CAQ would have a few socons.


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: RogueBeaver on June 11, 2013, 02:15:45 PM
Tkachuk is resigning as IE chair due to cancer, but he'll remain a committee member.  (http://www.theglobeandmail.com/news/politics/senator-resigns-as-head-of-committee-overseeing-audits-for-health-reasons/article12473616/?cmpid=rss1&utm_source=dlvr.it&utm_medium=twitter) Sen. Gerald Comeau is the likely next chair.

DC: You shouldn't be.

As a side note, I like that CPAC now lets you hear both French and the voiceover rather than just voiceover as it used to be.


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: Hatman 🍁 on June 11, 2013, 03:06:27 PM
Quebec will soon legalize assisted suicide with all party support in the Assembly and largely supportive public opinion. (http://fullcomment.nationalpost.com/2013/06/10/ottawa-unlikely-to-stop-pqs-bid-to-legalize-assisted-suicide/) Doubtful Ottawa appeals to the Supremes. I'm neither surprised about their initiative nor supportive myself.

Kind of surprised none of the parties are voting against it. I figured CAQ would have a few socons.

Are there really any "socon" parts of Quebec? There are xenophobic parts of Quebec, and there are free market types in the Beauce, but socons?

Speaking of which, what party is more socially conservative CAQ or PLQ? My money is on the PLQ.


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: RogueBeaver on June 11, 2013, 03:19:58 PM
CAQ probably, given their ADQ roots. PLQ's definitely socially liberal.

On another subject, TSB's VIA 92 report is out.  (http://www.cbc.ca/news/canada/story/2013/06/10/via-derailment-transportation-safety-board-report.html)


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: Hatman 🍁 on June 11, 2013, 03:25:58 PM
CAQ probably, given their ADQ roots. PLQ's definitely socially liberal.

What about their base? I picture the PLQ base as being more conservative.


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: RogueBeaver on June 11, 2013, 03:33:02 PM
I don't think so- PLQ base is non-Francophones and a small chunk of Francophones. If you asked them about euthanasia, abortion, capital punishment, guns, etc., doubt you'd be much surprised at their answers.


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: DC Al Fine on June 11, 2013, 04:22:44 PM
CAQ probably, given their ADQ roots. PLQ's definitely socially liberal.

What about their base? I picture the PLQ base as being more conservative.

PLQ base is Anglos (who tend to be wealthier) & upper middle class francophones. Those people seem more like Jon Huntsman than Mike Huckabee. CAQ has more of a rural conservative vibe going on.

I suppose social conservatism in Quebec died with Dupleissis.


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: Hatman 🍁 on June 11, 2013, 05:12:35 PM
Ok, well all 3 parties have a rural base. I was perhaps thinking of the PLQ base in the Eastern Townships, but CAQ has a rural base in the Chaudiere-Appalaches and PQ has a rural base everywhere else.


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: Hash on June 11, 2013, 06:30:24 PM
Liberal-voting allophones/immigrants might also tend to be quite/very socially conservative, particularly Italian Catholics, Arabs or Haitians (Catholics). But they're very rarely vocal about that kind of stuff so they're not really noteworthy.

And obviously the Orthodox Jews would be very socially conservative.


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: RogueBeaver on June 11, 2013, 08:05:29 PM
Auditor-General might look through all Senate expenses, he'll decide in the next few weeks. (http://o.canada.com/2013/06/11/alert-tkachuk-steps-down-as-head-of-senate-committee-overseeing-audits/#.UbfIV0GpDD0.twitter)

 (http://www.theglobeandmail.com/news/politics/government-makes-trade-concessions-for-eu-in-11th-hour-talks/article12486987/?cmpid=rss1&utm_source=dlvr.it&utm_medium=twitterFTA negotiations continue.[/url)


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: RogueBeaver on June 11, 2013, 08:36:23 PM
More FTA concessions. (http://www.theglobeandmail.com/news/politics/government-makes-trade-concessions-for-eu-in-11th-hour-talks/article12486987/?cmpid=rss1&utm_source=dlvr.it&utm_medium=twitter)


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: DC Al Fine on June 11, 2013, 08:47:13 PM
My friend's uncle is Peter MacKay's Chief of Staff. The friend says his uncle is quitting for some reason.


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: RogueBeaver on June 11, 2013, 08:51:11 PM
For the private sector apparently. MacKay's getting another COS, so I wouldn't read that as a shuffle tea leaf even if I think MacKay should be moved sideways.


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: RogueBeaver on June 11, 2013, 09:49:27 PM
Report from La Presse that the Quebec government is coordinating QSF's PR and will keep the decision secret for 10 days, which may be also used for SJB purposes.


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: MaxQue on June 11, 2013, 11:24:43 PM
Ok, well all 3 parties have a rural base. I was perhaps thinking of the PLQ base in the Eastern Townships, but CAQ has a rural base in the Chaudiere-Appalaches and PQ has a rural base everywhere else.

The PLQ base in Eastern Townships is Anglophones, which are moving elsewhere for the youngs and dying for the olds. Also, French people are moving there, for ski, for the universities in Sherbrooke, for the lakes...


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: RogueBeaver on June 12, 2013, 07:14:42 AM
PM doing some impersonations backstage before his E-Night rally 2 years ago. (http://o.canada.com/2013/06/11/stephen-harper-impersonates-clark-mulroney-manning-video/) He should do this sort of thing more often.


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: Hatman 🍁 on June 12, 2013, 08:17:31 AM
Ok, well all 3 parties have a rural base. I was perhaps thinking of the PLQ base in the Eastern Townships, but CAQ has a rural base in the Chaudiere-Appalaches and PQ has a rural base everywhere else.

The PLQ base in Eastern Townships is Anglophones, which are moving elsewhere for the youngs and dying for the olds. Also, French people are moving there, for ski, for the universities in Sherbrooke, for the lakes...

How many Anglos are still there though? Not a majority. I guess if 90% of Anglos vote Liberal there, + the average amount of Franco Liberal voters = win in the Eastern Townships.


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: RogueBeaver on June 12, 2013, 09:18:44 AM
FSQ is keeping the turban ban, asking the CSF to engage in dialogue. FIFA's deferring to CSF, so the ban will likely stay for the foreseeable future.


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: RogueBeaver on June 12, 2013, 02:12:38 PM
Cameron says we're close on EFTA. (http://www.theglobeandmail.com/news/politics/were-close-on-canada-eu-trade-deal-says-british-pm-before-meeting-with-harper/article12492772/?cmpid=rss1&utm_source=dlvr.it&utm_medium=twitter) Ivison agrees and thinks we might get an agreement in principle.


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: RogueBeaver on June 12, 2013, 02:53:30 PM
Harb owes $240k. (http://www.cbc.ca/news/politics/story/2013/06/12/pol-senator-mac-harb-tkachuk-expenses.html)


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: Hatman 🍁 on June 12, 2013, 03:13:40 PM
Radio host calls Andrea Horvath a whore. :(


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: RogueBeaver on June 12, 2013, 04:43:08 PM
That host's a pig. Meanwhile Del Maestro resurfaced on PNP and PP reasserting his innocence in that campaign finance probe, more mellow than usual but saying EC showed "malice" in prosecuting him. LOL. Dunno why he chose to reappear out of the blue like this, but to each their own and all that...


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: MaxQue on June 12, 2013, 05:18:04 PM
Ok, well all 3 parties have a rural base. I was perhaps thinking of the PLQ base in the Eastern Townships, but CAQ has a rural base in the Chaudiere-Appalaches and PQ has a rural base everywhere else.

The PLQ base in Eastern Townships is Anglophones, which are moving elsewhere for the youngs and dying for the olds. Also, French people are moving there, for ski, for the universities in Sherbrooke, for the lakes...

How many Anglos are still there though? Not a majority. I guess if 90% of Anglos vote Liberal there, + the average amount of Franco Liberal voters = win in the Eastern Townships.

Ok, well all 3 parties have a rural base. I was perhaps thinking of the PLQ base in the Eastern Townships, but CAQ has a rural base in the Chaudiere-Appalaches and PQ has a rural base everywhere else.

The PLQ base in Eastern Townships is Anglophones, which are moving elsewhere for the youngs and dying for the olds. Also, French people are moving there, for ski, for the universities in Sherbrooke, for the lakes...

How many Anglos are still there though? Not a majority. I guess if 90% of Anglos vote Liberal there, + the average amount of Franco Liberal voters = win in the Eastern Townships.

It's very variable depending where you are there. All Eastern Townships were English majority at a point, I think, through.

Estrie (the administration region of Eastern Townships, except Brome-Missisquoi and Haute-Yamaska MRCs): 7.6%

Cities:
Sherbrooke: 4.9%
Magog: 6.7%
Coaticook: 4.9%
Lac-Mégantic: 1.3%
Windsor: 3.7%

MRC (counties):
Coaticook (South-East): 11.1%
Le Granit (Lac-Mégantic, Far East): 1.6%
Le Haut-Saint-François (Cookshire-Eaton, Est, includes suburbs): 11.4%
Les Sources (Asbestos, North, former mining area): 4.1%
Le Val-Saint-François (Richmond, North-West, includes suburbs): 8.2%
Memphrémagog (Magog, South-West): 16.0%
Brome-Missisquoi: 20.1%
La Haute-Yamaska: 3.9%

Federal ridings:
Brome-Missisquoi: 16.0%
Shefford: 3.5%
Richmond-Arthabaska: 3.3%
Sherbrooke: 3.2%
Mégantic-L'Érable: 1.5%
Compton-Stanstead: 12.2%

So, anglophones declined much there. Most of them are in rural areas, too. In some areas, their weight is not significant.


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: RogueBeaver on June 12, 2013, 06:21:23 PM
Doug Ford will retire from council next year. (http://news.nationalpost.com/2013/06/12/doug-ford-confirms-he-has-no-plan-to-run-in-the-next-toronto-election/?utm_source=dlvr.it&utm_medium=twitter)


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: Hatman 🍁 on June 12, 2013, 06:49:14 PM
Ok, well all 3 parties have a rural base. I was perhaps thinking of the PLQ base in the Eastern Townships, but CAQ has a rural base in the Chaudiere-Appalaches and PQ has a rural base everywhere else.

The PLQ base in Eastern Townships is Anglophones, which are moving elsewhere for the youngs and dying for the olds. Also, French people are moving there, for ski, for the universities in Sherbrooke, for the lakes...

How many Anglos are still there though? Not a majority. I guess if 90% of Anglos vote Liberal there, + the average amount of Franco Liberal voters = win in the Eastern Townships.

Ok, well all 3 parties have a rural base. I was perhaps thinking of the PLQ base in the Eastern Townships, but CAQ has a rural base in the Chaudiere-Appalaches and PQ has a rural base everywhere else.

The PLQ base in Eastern Townships is Anglophones, which are moving elsewhere for the youngs and dying for the olds. Also, French people are moving there, for ski, for the universities in Sherbrooke, for the lakes...

How many Anglos are still there though? Not a majority. I guess if 90% of Anglos vote Liberal there, + the average amount of Franco Liberal voters = win in the Eastern Townships.

It's very variable depending where you are there. All Eastern Townships were English majority at a point, I think, through.

Estrie (the administration region of Eastern Townships, except Brome-Missisquoi and Haute-Yamaska MRCs): 7.6%

Cities:
Sherbrooke: 4.9%
Magog: 6.7%
Coaticook: 4.9%
Lac-Mégantic: 1.3%
Windsor: 3.7%

MRC (counties):
Coaticook (South-East): 11.1%
Le Granit (Lac-Mégantic, Far East): 1.6%
Le Haut-Saint-François (Cookshire-Eaton, Est, includes suburbs): 11.4%
Les Sources (Asbestos, North, former mining area): 4.1%
Le Val-Saint-François (Richmond, North-West, includes suburbs): 8.2%
Memphrémagog (Magog, South-West): 16.0%
Brome-Missisquoi: 20.1%
La Haute-Yamaska: 3.9%

Federal ridings:
Brome-Missisquoi: 16.0%
Shefford: 3.5%
Richmond-Arthabaska: 3.3%
Sherbrooke: 3.2%
Mégantic-L'Érable: 1.5%
Compton-Stanstead: 12.2%

So, anglophones declined much there. Most of them are in rural areas, too. In some areas, their weight is not significant.

Another way of looking at it would be English (or non-French) ancestry.


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: MaxQue on June 12, 2013, 07:12:35 PM
Ok, well all 3 parties have a rural base. I was perhaps thinking of the PLQ base in the Eastern Townships, but CAQ has a rural base in the Chaudiere-Appalaches and PQ has a rural base everywhere else.

The PLQ base in Eastern Townships is Anglophones, which are moving elsewhere for the youngs and dying for the olds. Also, French people are moving there, for ski, for the universities in Sherbrooke, for the lakes...

How many Anglos are still there though? Not a majority. I guess if 90% of Anglos vote Liberal there, + the average amount of Franco Liberal voters = win in the Eastern Townships.

Ok, well all 3 parties have a rural base. I was perhaps thinking of the PLQ base in the Eastern Townships, but CAQ has a rural base in the Chaudiere-Appalaches and PQ has a rural base everywhere else.

The PLQ base in Eastern Townships is Anglophones, which are moving elsewhere for the youngs and dying for the olds. Also, French people are moving there, for ski, for the universities in Sherbrooke, for the lakes...

How many Anglos are still there though? Not a majority. I guess if 90% of Anglos vote Liberal there, + the average amount of Franco Liberal voters = win in the Eastern Townships.

It's very variable depending where you are there. All Eastern Townships were English majority at a point, I think, through.

Estrie (the administration region of Eastern Townships, except Brome-Missisquoi and Haute-Yamaska MRCs): 7.6%

Cities:
Sherbrooke: 4.9%
Magog: 6.7%
Coaticook: 4.9%
Lac-Mégantic: 1.3%
Windsor: 3.7%

MRC (counties):
Coaticook (South-East): 11.1%
Le Granit (Lac-Mégantic, Far East): 1.6%
Le Haut-Saint-François (Cookshire-Eaton, Est, includes suburbs): 11.4%
Les Sources (Asbestos, North, former mining area): 4.1%
Le Val-Saint-François (Richmond, North-West, includes suburbs): 8.2%
Memphrémagog (Magog, South-West): 16.0%
Brome-Missisquoi: 20.1%
La Haute-Yamaska: 3.9%

Federal ridings:
Brome-Missisquoi: 16.0%
Shefford: 3.5%
Richmond-Arthabaska: 3.3%
Sherbrooke: 3.2%
Mégantic-L'Érable: 1.5%
Compton-Stanstead: 12.2%

So, anglophones declined much there. Most of them are in rural areas, too. In some areas, their weight is not significant.

Another way of looking at it would be English (or non-French) ancestry.

Well, a Francophone having English ancestry isn't really different from another Anglophone. There was a couple of influent PQ members which had an English ancestry, looking at their name (Robert Burns, Pierre-Marc Johnson...)


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: RogueBeaver on June 13, 2013, 09:41:30 AM
308's take on Atlantic Grit-mania.  (http://www.threehundredeight.com/2013/06/provincial-liberals-up-throughout.html?spref=tw) Plus the current federal polls. (http://www.theglobeandmail.com/news/politics/in-history-of-polls-harpers-re-election-odds-arent-good/article12509729/?cmpid=rss1) Always amazing to look back and see how quickly PET and Mulroney went south in their final terms.


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: DC Al Fine on June 13, 2013, 10:33:44 AM
308's take on Atlantic Grit-mania.  (http://www.threehundredeight.com/2013/06/provincial-liberals-up-throughout.html?spref=tw) Plus the current federal polls. (http://www.theglobeandmail.com/news/politics/in-history-of-polls-harpers-re-election-odds-arent-good/article12509729/?cmpid=rss1) Always amazing to look back and see how quickly PET and Mulroney went south in their final terms.

I think the situation is worse when you consider that half of the majority re-elections were won by Jean Chretien who had the advantage of an almost perfectly divided right wing.


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: RogueBeaver on June 13, 2013, 10:42:27 AM
Brazeau and Harb have 30 days to repay expenses, dunno if this gets tied up in court.  (http://news.nationalpost.com/2013/06/13/senators-brazeau-harb-given-30-days-to-repay-thousands-of-dollars-in-expenses/?utm_source=dlvr.it&utm_medium=twitter)

Polls: Eh, I'm still optimistic for economic and political reasons. Plus if BC didn't teach us to ignore midterm polls, nothing will. However I do believe that if we win in '15, will be the final term before our fellow Canucks replace us with someone else.


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: DC Al Fine on June 13, 2013, 10:59:41 AM
Brazeau and Harb have 30 days to repay expenses, dunno if this gets tied up in court.  (http://news.nationalpost.com/2013/06/13/senators-brazeau-harb-given-30-days-to-repay-thousands-of-dollars-in-expenses/?utm_source=dlvr.it&utm_medium=twitter)

Polls: Eh, I'm still optimistic for economic and political reasons. Plus if BC didn't teach us to ignore midterm polls, nothing will. However I do believe that if we win in '15, will be the final term before our fellow Canucks replace us with someone else.

Do you think Harper will go down with his ship after 2015 or will he quit and let someone else take the hit?


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: RogueBeaver on June 13, 2013, 11:01:08 AM
Breaking on CTV: Mulcair blew through multiple stop signs and security checkpoints on the Hill, didn't pull over for RCMP till he got to his parking space. Allegedly told the officer "don't you know who I am." He's since apologized for the incident. Not the first time this sort of thing has happened- Guergis, Raitt and Poilievre also had similar incidents. Regardless of party, my advice is the same: chill out. Not cool to go postal on people doing their jobs.


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: DC Al Fine on June 13, 2013, 11:16:16 AM
Breaking on CTV: Mulcair blew through multiple stop signs and security checkpoints on the Hill, didn't pull over for RCMP till he got to his parking space. Allegedly told the officer "don't you know who I am." He's since apologized for the incident. Not the first time this sort of thing has happened- Guergis, Raitt and Poilievre also had similar incidents. Regardless of party, my advice is the same: chill out. Not cool to go postal on people doing their jobs.

Mulcair is a freaking leader though. What a stupid thing to do.


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: RogueBeaver on June 13, 2013, 11:26:03 AM
Agreed, considering he's LOTO. Also forgot Blackburn on that list. As for your other question, I could see Harper walking away in mid-mandate for family reasons. But I don't see him ducking out like PET or Mulroney, he'll take the hit if it came to that. Keeping in mind that only King and Pearson left the PMO voluntarily.


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: RogueBeaver on June 13, 2013, 12:05:38 PM
Here's the Mulcair video (http://www.ctvnews.ca/video?clipId=946438&playlistId=1.1324094&binId=1.810401&playlistPageNum=1). Speaking of videos, Toronto police were aware of the Ford video before the story broke.


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: Hatman 🍁 on June 13, 2013, 12:21:51 PM
Hopefully this Ford video thing will bury the stop sign incident </hack>

But what an incredibly non-NDP thing to do.


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: DC Al Fine on June 13, 2013, 12:25:32 PM
If Justin Trudeau had done that instead of Mulcair, I would be soooooo happy.


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: RogueBeaver on June 13, 2013, 12:34:17 PM
More video: Del Mastro literally crying on the House floor about his campaign finance issue.  (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=LvynZn20-OI)  LOL. In less amusing news, Dawson is suspending her Wright investigation because RCMP has now said there's sufficient grounds to start a criminal one. QP will be very interesting on both sides today, that's for sure.


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: Hash on June 13, 2013, 12:47:38 PM
Why is my 700 years old Frankenstein MP wearing a beret?


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: True Federalist (진정한 연방 주의자) on June 13, 2013, 01:03:55 PM
308's take on Atlantic Grit-mania.  (http://www.threehundredeight.com/2013/06/provincial-liberals-up-throughout.html?spref=tw) Plus the current federal polls. (http://www.theglobeandmail.com/news/politics/in-history-of-polls-harpers-re-election-odds-arent-good/article12509729/?cmpid=rss1) Always amazing to look back and see how quickly PET and Mulroney went south in their final terms.

I think the situation is worse when you consider that half of the majority re-elections were won by Jean Chretien who had the advantage of an almost perfectly divided right wing.

Yet doesn't Harper have the advantage of a divided left wing?


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: RogueBeaver on June 13, 2013, 03:39:20 PM
Toronto police were aware of relationships between Ford and people in that video, says CBC.


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: RogueBeaver on June 13, 2013, 03:57:45 PM
For Hash's question: Kady O'Malley says Galipeau's beret is because of his cancer treatment. On another subject, exclusive Wallin interview with Mansbridge tonight.


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: RogueBeaver on June 13, 2013, 08:54:17 PM
Here's the Wallin transcript.  (http://thestar.blogs.com/politics_page/2013/06/wallin-mansbridge-transcript.html)


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: RogueBeaver on June 14, 2013, 08:47:00 AM
FIFA rules in favour of turbans. (http://www.fifa.com/aboutfifa/organisation/ifab/news/newsid=2109325/index.html?cid=twitter_fifacom) :)


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: RogueBeaver on June 14, 2013, 10:40:16 AM
QSF has backed down. :D


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: MaxQue on June 14, 2013, 01:54:19 PM

It's not like if they had any choice. They claimed they were having that position until FIFA decision.


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: RogueBeaver on June 14, 2013, 03:35:10 PM
Looks like Trudeau has some charitable trouble.  (http://fullcomment.nationalpost.com/2013/06/14/john-ivison-justin-trudeaus-hoggishness-toward-charity-proves-hes-not-too-nice-to-run-the-country/?utm_source=dlvr.it&utm_medium=twitter) Kenney and Poilievre had a field day with this one in QP today.

Natynczyk will be the new CSA president starting in August. (http://www.theglobeandmail.com/news/politics/canadas-former-top-soldier-appointed-head-of-space-program/article12567201/?cmpid=rss1&utm_source=dlvr.it&utm_medium=twitter)


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: RogueBeaver on June 14, 2013, 03:52:27 PM
Meanwhile here in Montreal, a bus driver beats up a senior. (http://www.lapresse.ca/videos/201306/12/46-1-une-chauffeuse-dautobus-malmene-un-septuagenaire.php/45ac0d909c4a43aea99a559b2f7b10aa) I'll leave it at "depraved" to avoid death points.


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: Peter the Lefty on June 15, 2013, 01:12:12 AM
Well, if anyone in the NDP would have that personality, it'd easily be Mulcair.


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: MaxQue on June 15, 2013, 02:10:59 AM
Well, if anyone in the NDP would have that personality, it'd easily be Mulcair.

Isn't NDP full of union leaders? At least, in Quebec, they tend to have terrible personalities (the union leaders).


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: RogueBeaver on June 15, 2013, 07:43:52 AM
Let's not overestimate this too much, merely some proverbial egg on face which will be forgotten once the session ends next week.

On another subject, here's an interview with McLachlin (http://www.theglobeandmail.com/news/national/meet-canadas-longest-serving-chief-justice/article12585502/?cmpid=rss1&utm_source=dlvr.it&utm_medium=twitter). Didn't realize she's now our longest-serving Chief Justice.


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: DC Al Fine on June 15, 2013, 03:39:23 PM
Can someone give their opinion on an offline argument I'm having?

Suppose Peter MacKay & Stephen Harper waited until after the 2004 election to initiate merger talks. Would the Liberals have won a majority?


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: RogueBeaver on June 16, 2013, 08:54:14 AM
Since Adscam is still happening... quite possible Liberals win a 1997 wafer-thin majority. IRL before the merger both conservative parties were barely cracking 25% combined. Granted that's before Adscam, but best case scenario where Harper's Alliance benefits most, you get a strong Liberal minority because the Alliance can't reach beyond the MB/ON border.


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: RogueBeaver on June 16, 2013, 11:05:05 AM
Trudeau has offered to return the speaking fees in question (http://www.theglobeandmail.com/news/politics/trudeau-to-offer-repayment-of-20000-speaking-fee/article12588572/). RDI reports that QSF knew of FIFA rules permitting turbans since last September. (http://www.radio-canada.ca/widgets/mediaconsole/medianet/6730673)


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: Hatman 🍁 on June 16, 2013, 02:15:43 PM
Can someone give their opinion on an offline argument I'm having?

Suppose Peter MacKay & Stephen Harper waited until after the 2004 election to initiate merger talks. Would the Liberals have won a majority?

Yes. Agree it would be like 1997. Except, the NDP would have won more seats (in fact, probably more so than in RL)


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: RogueBeaver on June 17, 2013, 09:19:14 AM
Applebaum was arrested a few hours ago by UPAC and charged with 14 counts of conspiracy, abuse of public trust, fraud and municipal corruption (http://=http://m.theglobeandmail.com/news/national/montreal-mayor-michael-applebaum-arrested/article12595439/?service=mobile). Also arrested was former executive committeeman Saulie Zajdel on unspecified charges, better known as the 2011 Tory candidate against Cotler in Mount-Royal. The opposition doesn't want trusteeship (http://www.radio-canada.ca/nouvelles/societe/2013/06/17/003-maire-applebaum-reactions-opposition-tutelle.shtml) (last imposed when Montreal defaulted in 1940) but the provincial government's watching closely. In other Quebec news, construction's on strike and the PQ wants a negotiated settlement.


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: Hatman 🍁 on June 17, 2013, 09:55:08 AM
I thought Applebaum was supposed to be Montreal's saviour?

So, does this mean he is  no longer mayor?



Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: RogueBeaver on June 17, 2013, 10:00:21 AM
Executive committee, which is reorganizing itself around the new parties right now, will have to elect another interim mayor. These charges relate to six-digit real estate transactions he made when he was NDG borough mayor in the 2006-11 period.  (http://www.winnipegfreepress.com/canada/canadian-press-newsalert-montreal-mayor-michael-applebaum-has-been-arrested-211789991.html)


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: RogueBeaver on June 17, 2013, 11:14:09 AM
The hilarious thing is that he planned to run for reelection as borough mayor (which he's held since 2002) until this happened.


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: Filuwaúrdjan on June 17, 2013, 01:36:52 PM
hahaha


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: RogueBeaver on June 17, 2013, 02:23:39 PM
QP was also hilarious: Trudeau needs remedial debating lessons, because in a leaders' debate that would've been a self-nuke given how badly Moore pwned him (most non-Grits were literally facepalming), and Leitch needs to learn French if she wants a Cabinet post. Translator didn't even translate. The issues were Senate, Zajdel and charities.

Meanwhile Harper will probably come back without an FTA since both sides have tariff walls and various other things they don't want to tear down. Ugh.


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: DC Al Fine on June 17, 2013, 02:50:51 PM
QP was also hilarious: Trudeau needs remedial debating lessons, because in a leaders' debate that would've been a self-nuke given how badly Moore pwned him (most non-Grits were literally facepalming)

Do you have a link or can you give a recap of what they said?


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: RogueBeaver on June 17, 2013, 03:25:59 PM
I assume CPAC will have it up later. Questions were OK, but he was "leading with his chin", as Moore put it, by opening himself up for attack on the speaking fees issue. "Literally raising the bar" is where the facepalming happened, and Moore cracked a joke about raising the thermometer bar at those charity fundraisers.

Meanwhile Applebaum was just released from custody after spending most of the day in custody (dragged out of bed at 6 AM and interrogated most of the time since), no comment from him. Marois has demanded he resign but says there won't be trusteeship because Montreal has a director-general and opposition parties, which Laval didn't. There is legislation that allows the government to remove him directly but Marois said she hopes he resigns.


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: RogueBeaver on June 18, 2013, 02:32:08 PM
Applebaum is resigning right now.


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: Hash on June 18, 2013, 02:52:32 PM
Another "anti-corruption crusader" bites the dust as he turns out to be a corrupt crook. Good riddance.


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: RogueBeaver on June 18, 2013, 03:02:47 PM
True. My assumption is that no one's clean. In other news, Glover has bowed to the EC ruling and filed amended returns.   (http://www.cbc.ca/news/politics/story/2013/06/18/pol-bezan-glover-privilege-question.html)


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: Filuwaúrdjan on June 18, 2013, 03:06:05 PM
Another "anti-corruption crusader" bites the dust as he turns out to be a corrupt crook. Good riddance.

It's hilarious how often that turns out to be the case, isn't it? One of the classics is still Swansea in the 1970s, of course: corruption scandals saw an entrenched Labour administration lose power in 1977 to a group of heroic anti-corruption independents. It soon emerged that many of these heroic anti-corruption independents were the same local businessmen who had been bribing members of the previous administration...


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: minionofmidas on June 18, 2013, 03:07:16 PM
Another "anti-corruption crusader" bites the dust as he turns out to be a corrupt crook. Good riddance.

It's hilarious how often that turns out to be the case, isn't it? One of the classics is still Swansea in the 1970s, of course: corruption scandals saw an entrenched Labour administration lose power in 1977 to a group of heroic anti-corruption independents. It soon emerged that many of these heroic anti-corruption independents were the same local businessmen who had been bribing members of the previous administration...
L. M. A. O.


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: RogueBeaver on June 18, 2013, 03:52:21 PM
Add Eve Adams to the list of traffic offenders, fined $150 last week for driving while on the cell. (http://www.hilltimes.com/news/politics/2013/06/18/tory-mp-adams-given-%24155-ticket-for-driving-while-using-cell-phone-on-parliament/35104#.UcDHXeB1WkM.twitter)


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: Hatman 🍁 on June 18, 2013, 05:27:32 PM
Who will be Montreal mayor now? Or will Cowell-Poitras just serve as acting mayor until the Fall?


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: RogueBeaver on June 18, 2013, 06:06:03 PM
Dunno, council will probably vote on another interim appointment.


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: RogueBeaver on June 18, 2013, 07:29:57 PM
Unanimous vote to adjourn for the summer! :D First convention, then shuffle. Whew.


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: DC Al Fine on June 18, 2013, 07:42:10 PM
Unanimous vote to adjourn for the summer! :D First convention, then shuffle. Whew.

Thank goodness!

Went on youtube to look up a clip from the 2011 election debates and made the mistake of reading the comments. How unedifying :P.


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: RogueBeaver on June 18, 2013, 08:10:07 PM
Senate will remain in session for another 2 weeks to pass remaining legislation. As for the convention, the most contentious resolutions will be barred or admitted behind closed doors so I don't expect any fireworks.


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: RogueBeaver on June 19, 2013, 09:52:17 AM
Bob Rae is about to announce his retirement. Also posted this in the by-elections thread for obvious reasons. :P


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: RogueBeaver on June 19, 2013, 10:31:23 AM
Rae and Trudeau's presser was pretty emotional. But there's more news: Montreal City Council will choose a new interim mayor next Tuesday, and Option Nationale leader Jean-Martin Aussant is leaving politics. Wonder if the party folds. Trudeau said he's told the Liberal senators to vigorously oppose C-377, so LeBreton will have to ram it through in the next 2 weeks.


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: RogueBeaver on June 19, 2013, 11:15:31 AM
If the Quebec construction strike doesn't end in 2 weeks they'll be legislated back to work. CAQ will back the PQ. I assume the PLQ will as well, should it come to that.


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: Leftbehind on June 19, 2013, 01:07:49 PM
More capitalist freedom for workers.


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: MaxQue on June 19, 2013, 03:50:35 PM
More capitalist freedom for workers.

Construction workers aren't poor, really. They have very good conditions. Anyways, we have no proof than the workers are backing the strike, as the system is totally biaised. Workers vote for an union every 2 years and the leadership may do as they want. A general strike just needs the agreement of the leadership of unions having a weight of 50%. There is no consultation of the workers.

And I can see why the government wants to force it back, since all construction industry is paralysed, which can be quite problematic, as you can see.


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: MaxQue on June 19, 2013, 11:20:00 PM
ON leader, Jean-Martin Aussan, resigned as leader and left political life.

Also, a CROP poll in Quebec. (http://www.lapresse.ca/fichiers/4663151/perception.pdf (http://www.lapresse.ca/fichiers/4663151/perception.pdf))

Marois approval: 28-68
PLQ 38, PQ 25, CAQ 22, QS 11, ON 4

Harper approval: 26-72
Liberals 42, NDP 32, Bloc 15, Conservatives 8, Greens 3


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: DC Al Fine on June 20, 2013, 06:36:34 AM
Kind of surprised that Harper's approval rate is that high in Quebec.


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: RogueBeaver on June 20, 2013, 06:55:31 AM
Especially since only 8% of Quebecers support the Tories per CROP. Whose crosstabs are a bit interesting: Montreal and the couronne (plus Francos as a whole) remain a tossup, but the Liberals lead in Quebec City and have a big 47-30 lead in ROQ. Provincially the PLQ leads in all regions except the tied couronne. Depends on vote splits but they'd probably hypothetically win with that breakdown IMO. PQ needs ROQ and couronne. Also LOL @ Marois being last for best premier, behind undecided. :P

Funke suggests the shuffle might be the week of July 8. Makes sense, that's when Harper did the mini-shuffle last year.  (http://www.punditsguide.ca/2013/06/rae-coderre-resignations-pave-way-for-great-reckoning/)


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: You kip if you want to... on June 20, 2013, 05:58:33 PM
Well, if we head back to around the time that the CAQ was formed, everyone knew that Marois was never going to make a good premier. :P


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: RogueBeaver on June 20, 2013, 06:50:09 PM
RCMP is seizing the election returns of 9 Tory MPs in the Duffy investigation (http://www.hilltimes.com/news/politics/2013/06/20/rcmp-seize-election-returns-of-nine-conservative-mps-in-duffy-investigation/35111), and they're also formally investigating Mac Harb.

More polls: Leger's federal pegs LPC 37, CPC 29, NDP 21. 46-26-15-8 in Quebec. (http://www.montrealgazette.com/news/Canadians+jump+Trudeau+bandwagon+poll+shows/8556218/story.html)


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: DINGO Joe on June 21, 2013, 01:47:23 AM
That's quite the  flood evac going on in Calgary right now.


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: Njall on June 21, 2013, 01:58:53 AM
That's quite the  flood evac going on in Calgary right now.

Haha, tell me about it.  It's at times like this that I'm thankful that I live on fairly high ground, and away from the rivers.  But I was down at the reservoir tonight, the water is much higher than normal and lots more is rushing in from the north.  The dam's going to overflow soon, I just hope that people in the evac areas heeded the warnings. 

Tomorrow's going to be unusual too, it's the first day since I moved to Calgary 11 years ago that things got serious enough for the downtown core and all the schools to close.


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: DC Al Fine on June 21, 2013, 09:56:27 AM
RCMP is seizing the election returns of 9 Tory MPs in the Duffy investigation (http://www.hilltimes.com/news/politics/2013/06/20/rcmp-seize-election-returns-of-nine-conservative-mps-in-duffy-investigation/35111), and they're also formally investigating Mac Harb.

More polls: Leger's federal pegs LPC 37, CPC 29, NDP 21. 46-26-15-8 in Quebec. (http://www.montrealgazette.com/news/Canadians+jump+Trudeau+bandwagon+poll+shows/8556218/story.html)

That's baaaaaddd for the NDP.


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: RogueBeaver on June 21, 2013, 09:57:00 AM
Ashfield is leaving Cabinet due to Hodgkin's lymphoma. (http://www.cbc.ca/news/canada/new-brunswick/story/2013/06/21/nb-ashfield-cancer-cabinet-1029.html) Best of luck in a speedy recovery. The article also suggests late June for the shuffle- I doubt that it happens before the convention myself, and most other sources say the week of July 10. Maybe Ivison or Fife will let us know on Sunday...


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: 7,052,770 on June 21, 2013, 10:25:37 AM
So much for my Banff vacation.  Would have arrived today :(


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: RogueBeaver on June 21, 2013, 10:35:12 AM
There are 1200 troops deploying as we speak alongside numerous air assets. Tory convention was scheduled for Calgary next week, might be rescheduled or moved to another location.


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: Hatman 🍁 on June 21, 2013, 11:36:35 AM
There are 1200 troops deploying as we speak alongside numerous air assets. Tory convention was scheduled for Calgary next week, might be rescheduled or moved to another location.

it's funny how you refer to it as "the convention" as if it's the only convention ever :P

RCMP is seizing the election returns of 9 Tory MPs in the Duffy investigation (http://www.hilltimes.com/news/politics/2013/06/20/rcmp-seize-election-returns-of-nine-conservative-mps-in-duffy-investigation/35111), and they're also formally investigating Mac Harb.

More polls: Leger's federal pegs LPC 37, CPC 29, NDP 21. 46-26-15-8 in Quebec. (http://www.montrealgazette.com/news/Canadians+jump+Trudeau+bandwagon+poll+shows/8556218/story.html)

That's baaaaaddd for the NDP.

Those wouldn't be bad numbers if it were 2010 ;)



Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: RogueBeaver on June 21, 2013, 11:43:26 AM
Context and all that. :P More seriously, Harper is enroute to Calgary to tour the flood damage with Redford.


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: RogueBeaver on June 21, 2013, 01:32:50 PM
Bernier arrested and had his car impounded for driving without a licence.  (http://www.journaldemontreal.com/2013/06/20/arrete-sans-permis) This must be Traffic Stop Month. :P


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: You kip if you want to... on June 21, 2013, 02:07:07 PM
Is there any hope for the NDP? Or do they just have to bet on Justin self destructing into a ball of vanity?


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: RogueBeaver on June 21, 2013, 02:14:32 PM
We're barely halfway through the Parliament, don't get hung up on midterm polls.


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: DC Al Fine on June 21, 2013, 02:32:43 PM
Is there any hope for the NDP? Or do they just have to bet on Justin self destructing into a ball of vanity?

Yes. Trudeau became leader like 2 months ago. Let the honeymoon wear off and we'll see where we are at.


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: RogueBeaver on June 21, 2013, 06:17:33 PM
3 bodies found in High River. :(


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: Ban my account ffs! on June 21, 2013, 07:05:47 PM
The historic flooding in Calgary has been caused by a persistent, slow moving upper level low to the south in Montana... so the main flow in Calgary has been out of the east... somewhat of a rare situation... but this upsloping flow out of the east causes warm, dense air to cool as it is forced up the eastern slope of the mountains.  This creates rain clouds.

This persistent pattern since mid May has caused an unusually rainy pattern, especially on the normally drier east slopes of the Rockies.  But while Calgary has been wet (just under 5" of rain in May and 5.5" in June so far), the heavier rains quickly flowing off the mountains is the main source of the flooding.

I hope people do heed the warnings and stay safe!


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: MaxQue on June 21, 2013, 11:35:46 PM
I hope people do heed the warnings and stay safe!

Sadly, already 3 fatalities and I read than one person is missing after falling in water in Calgary. Western Pyrénées have the same kind of flooding right now. All the rain falling on mountains in running down in the valleys.


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: RogueBeaver on June 22, 2013, 09:42:54 AM
Jenni Byrne might return to the PMO, and shuffle's being pegged for late July or early August. (http://m.theglobeandmail.com/news/politics/stephen-harper-looks-to-woo-disenchanted-tories/article12758615/?service=mobile) I'm still waiting to hear from Ivison and Fife, who are completely plugged into Harperland, unlike the G&M.


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: RogueBeaver on June 22, 2013, 12:47:42 PM
Tory convention has been postponed.


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: RogueBeaver on June 23, 2013, 10:59:56 AM
Fife says that "at least" 8 ministers will be gone in the shuffle, Ivison said Flaherty may stay after all. O'Connor and Van Loan are definitely gone, and Ivison's hearing about Rajotte as Whip. Which would be awesome. This is the last QP of the summer, BTW. Ivison also said EFTA's going through.


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: DC Al Fine on June 25, 2013, 10:12:55 AM
My provincial EDA is having their nomination meeting tonight. Travis Price of pink t-shirt bullying fame will be nominated by acclamation. Looking forward to some excellent ribs at the fundraising portion of the event as well.


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: Hatman 🍁 on June 25, 2013, 10:18:14 AM
The Tories are the centrist party in Nova Scotia, correct? (Liberals are the right of centre party?)

It's indicative of the NDP going downhill that an anti-bullying person would run for the Tories instead of the NDP.


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: DC Al Fine on June 25, 2013, 11:25:45 AM
The Tories are the centrist party in Nova Scotia, correct? (Liberals are the right of centre party?)

It's indicative of the NDP going downhill that an anti-bullying person would run for the Tories instead of the NDP.

There's not a huge difference but yes the Liberals are slightly to the right of the Tories in Nova Scotia.

The NDP have long been perceived as soft on bullying, and this has been exacerbated by the Retaeh Parsons case. An anti-bullying NDP candidate would probably be given a hard time.

When we vetted Price as a candidate, he emphasized the failure of school administrations to take decisive action against bullying as one of the main issues he deals with, which indicates to me that he favours  the Tory approach to to crime as well.


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: Hatman 🍁 on June 25, 2013, 01:16:14 PM
The NDP is soft on bullying? That really seems bizarre to me.


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: DC Al Fine on June 25, 2013, 01:54:19 PM
The NDP is soft on bullying? That really seems bizarre to me.

Soft in the sense of failing to punish offenders. Obviously, they are the loudest of the parties in terms of promoting bullying education in schools etc.


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: Hatman 🍁 on June 25, 2013, 01:55:57 PM
The NDP is soft on bullying? That really seems bizarre to me.

Soft in the sense of failing to punish offenders. Obviously, they are the loudest of the parties in terms of promoting bullying education in schools etc.

Oh, that makes more sense ;)

This reminds me of one of our right wing city councillor's whose son committed suicide due to bullying.


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: Hatman 🍁 on June 25, 2013, 02:35:26 PM
Laurent Blanchard becomes mayor of Montreal


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: RogueBeaver on June 25, 2013, 03:03:03 PM
Andy Scott has died of cancer at 58. (http://www.cbc.ca/news/politics/story/2013/06/25/nb-andy-scott-obit-932.html) RIP. :(



Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: MaxQue on June 25, 2013, 03:20:14 PM
Laurent Blanchard becomes mayor of Montreal

30 votes for him (VM), 28 for Chilitian (former UM) and 3 for Cowell-Poitras (former UM). Croteau (PM) and de Sousa (former UM) withdrew before the vote. Croteau endorsed Blanchard, de Sousa endorsed Chitilian.

Apparently, the deal is than PM supported VM candidate in exchange of support for the office of President of the Executive Council (for Josée Duplessis, city councillor for DeLorimier, in the Plateau borough). That office is being vacated by Laurent Blanchard.

So, if that works, the three parties have one of three higher offices (Blanchard (VM) is mayor, Chilitian (UM) is President of the Municipal Council and Duplessis (PM) would be the President of the Executive Council).


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: MaxQue on June 25, 2013, 03:46:45 PM
Let's note than Laurent Blanchard left his party when he announced his run.


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: RogueBeaver on June 25, 2013, 06:12:51 PM
Vic Toews is on the verge of retiring from politics. (http://www.winnipegsun.com/2013/06/25/vic-toews-set-to-retire-from-politics) Heading to the private sector, not a judgeship. No surprise that- question is who gets his job, Glover or Bergen. So guess he'll resign after the shuffle.


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: DC Al Fine on June 25, 2013, 08:58:34 PM
Spoke with a staffer at the fundraiser tonight. We've been doing regional polling. Apparently NDP support has gone down the toilet disproportionately outside of Halifax, but is holding up surprisingly well in Halifax. Some resilience on the NDP's part will help them hold seats in the Halifax suburbs.


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: RogueBeaver on June 26, 2013, 02:35:41 PM
Liberals and Reds gut 377. (http://www.cbc.ca/news/politics/story/2013/06/26/pol-senate-amendment-hugh-segal.html?cmp=rss&utm_source=twitterfeed&utm_medium=twitter)  PMO says this isn't over. Reintroduce it in the fall as guv legislation, along with all other IR bills IMO.


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: Hatman 🍁 on June 26, 2013, 07:07:51 PM
Spoke with a staffer at the fundraiser tonight. We've been doing regional polling. Apparently NDP support has gone down the toilet disproportionately outside of Halifax, but is holding up surprisingly well in Halifax. Some resilience on the NDP's part will help them hold seats in the Halifax suburbs.

That makes a lot of sense, actually. It's the only area where the NDP has won seats federally recently. We saw the NDP do worse in some areas in the last federal election.


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: DC Al Fine on June 26, 2013, 08:14:50 PM
Spoke with a staffer at the fundraiser tonight. We've been doing regional polling. Apparently NDP support has gone down the toilet disproportionately outside of Halifax, but is holding up surprisingly well in Halifax. Some resilience on the NDP's part will help them hold seats in the Halifax suburbs.

That makes a lot of sense, actually. It's the only area where the NDP has won seats federally recently. We saw the NDP do worse in some areas in the last federal election.

Indeed. In 2009 the NDP racked up some massive majorities in rural seats (Queens, Pictou East, Pictou West, Hants East etc.) that are not really traditional NDP strongholds. It will be interested to see how those seats hold up in the next election.

By my count, you've got 8 completely safe seats in the Halifax area, and another 2 in Cape Breton. Plus you should hold onto Hants East no matter what happens. 11 seats is my worst case scenario for the NDP.


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: Hatman 🍁 on June 26, 2013, 10:29:46 PM
Alexa for leader!

...

I'm still hoping the polls are wrong a la BC/AB, but they probably aren't. Also hoping Nova Scotians realize the NDP had to make some tough choices for the better.


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: DC Al Fine on June 26, 2013, 10:42:56 PM
Alexa for leader!

...

I'm still hoping the polls are wrong a la BC/AB, but they probably aren't. Also hoping Nova Scotians realize the NDP had to make some tough choices for the better.

Man, she quit that job like 20 years ago :P.

I've found myself agreeing with the provincial NDP a lot of decisions. There is still a lot of stuff preventing me from voting NDP, but at least Dexter knows that NS has some major structural issues that need resolving... unlike most of my peers :P


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: Hatman 🍁 on June 27, 2013, 08:47:16 AM
Alexa for leader!

...

I'm still hoping the polls are wrong a la BC/AB, but they probably aren't. Also hoping Nova Scotians realize the NDP had to make some tough choices for the better.

Man, she quit that job like 20 years ago :P.

I've found myself agreeing with the provincial NDP a lot of decisions. There is still a lot of stuff preventing me from voting NDP, but at least Dexter knows that NS has some major structural issues that need resolving... unlike most of my peers :P

Dexter's government has been quite "Red Tory"-like, which I think any first term NDP government should govern like. (fix previous govt's problems). Unfortunately even that is too extreme for Nova Scotians :( Successive NDP governments are to slowly implement democratic socialism into the province (I call this the Tommy Douglas model). :D

As for Alexa, she should try and get the job back. Only person that can save the party at this point, I think. Remember, when she was leader she was the only NDP MLA with no hope of even forming official opposition. Now she would be in a position to be Premier.


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: RogueBeaver on June 27, 2013, 09:08:54 AM
More MacKay rumours swirling but IMO to be dismissed as the usual unfounded gossip. Don Martin tweeted yesterday that some ministers and MPs been told to be within 24h of Ottawa in early July,  so that's the shuffle.


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: Hatman 🍁 on June 27, 2013, 09:11:47 AM
MacKay rumours about what?


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: RogueBeaver on June 27, 2013, 09:37:58 AM
About him leaving. Staff turnover's the new excuse.


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: Hatman 🍁 on June 27, 2013, 11:50:37 AM
Heh heh heh.

John "epic fail" Tory is thinking about running for mayor of Toronto again. Will he ever learn? But kudos for him, he will split the ever shrinking right wing vote in Toronto.


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: Хahar 🤔 on June 27, 2013, 12:09:26 PM
In any case, if the NDP loses in Nova Scotia, that'll mean a rise in the federal NDP vote there come next election.


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: Hatman 🍁 on June 27, 2013, 01:04:32 PM
In any case, if the NDP loses in Nova Scotia, that'll mean a rise in the federal NDP vote there come next election.

Maybe, but the way things are going there will more likely just be a "trend" rather than an actual rise.


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: RogueBeaver on June 27, 2013, 01:10:00 PM
Quebec Court of Appeal rules that the province has no right to the registry data.  (http://www2.macleans.ca/2013/06/27/feds-win-latest-round-in-legal-fight-against-quebec-over-gun-registry-2/)


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: DC Al Fine on June 27, 2013, 01:43:28 PM
In any case, if the NDP loses in Nova Scotia, that'll mean a rise in the federal NDP vote there come next election.

Maybe, but the way things are going there will more likely just be a "trend" rather than an actual rise.

Meh. The NDP has been remarkably stable federally since 1997; 31%, 24%, 28%, 30%, 29%, 30%.

Alexa for leader!

...

I'm still hoping the polls are wrong a la BC/AB, but they probably aren't. Also hoping Nova Scotians realize the NDP had to make some tough choices for the better.

Man, she quit that job like 20 years ago :P.

I've found myself agreeing with the provincial NDP a lot of decisions. There is still a lot of stuff preventing me from voting NDP, but at least Dexter knows that NS has some major structural issues that need resolving... unlike most of my peers :P

As for Alexa, she should try and get the job back. Only person that can save the party at this point, I think. Remember, when she was leader she was the only NDP MLA with no hope of even forming official opposition. Now she would be in a position to be Premier.

That's partially her own doing. The NDP had 4 seats when she was elected (and a shot at 2 more) in Cape Breton. She was the victor in a Chretien/Martin style civil war between the Halifax & Cape Breton wings of the party. She forced out 1/2 the caucus. One of the expelled MLA's formed his own party eventually joined the Liberals and took half of the NDP vote in Cape Breton with him :P

Alexa did a good job federally, but she definitely had some growing pains as a provincial leader. Granted, she's probably much better suited to today's NDP than the NDP in 1980.


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: Smid on June 27, 2013, 05:42:02 PM
Dexter's government has been quite "Red Tory"-like, which I think any first term NDP government should govern like. (fix previous govt's problems).

So we have you on record now, stating that the only way to fix government problems is to govern like a Tory? [/trolling]


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: Hatman 🍁 on June 27, 2013, 06:47:46 PM
Dexter's government has been quite "Red Tory"-like, which I think any first term NDP government should govern like. (fix previous govt's problems).

So we have you on record now, stating that the only way to fix government problems is to govern like a Tory? [/trolling]

Not like a Tory, like a perceived Tory.  Tory government's (especially in Atlantic Canada) aren't particularly fiscally responsible. The NDP has a (wrong) reputation of being fiscally irresponsible. So, it's important that in the first term, for the NDP to prove it's fiscal credibility before moving on to more important socialist economic reforms.


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: MaxQue on June 27, 2013, 08:36:54 PM
Dexter's government has been quite "Red Tory"-like, which I think any first term NDP government should govern like. (fix previous govt's problems).

So we have you on record now, stating that the only way to fix government problems is to govern like a Tory? [/trolling]

If only Tories were fiscally responsible...
They aren't and are using public money to help their allies, like most parties (here, it's banks, churches and oil companies).


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: RogueBeaver on June 27, 2013, 08:58:56 PM
Ivison: shuffle scheduled for the 9th. Now we wait for more specific (he hinted at the broad outlines a couple of weeks ago) scoops on the whos and wheres.


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: MaxQue on June 27, 2013, 11:19:03 PM
Laval continues to look silly, now the mayor is complaining to the police than escorts attempted to extort him.

http://www.huffingtonpost.ca/2013/06/27/alexandre-duplessis-prostitute_n_3513462.html (http://www.huffingtonpost.ca/2013/06/27/alexandre-duplessis-prostitute_n_3513462.html)


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: MaxQue on June 27, 2013, 11:36:52 PM
New Nanos poll.

Liberals 34, Conservatives 29, NDP 25, Green 6, Bloc 4.

Atlantic: Liberal 40, NDP 35, Conservatives 22, Green 4 (caution, small sample)
Québec: Liberal 35, NDP 30, Bloc 15, Conservatives 13, Green 8
Ontario: Liberal 41, Conservative 29, NDP 22, Green 7
Prairies: Conservatives 54, Liberal 25, NDP 17, Green 3
BC: Conservatives 31, NDP 30, Liberals 28, Green 11


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: Hash on June 28, 2013, 12:19:15 AM
Trudeaumania already dying down, especially in QC.


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: MaxQue on June 28, 2013, 12:23:15 AM
Trudeaumania already dying down, especially in QC.

I wouldn't say it yet, but that's looking like it. Surprised, expected Trudeaumanis to not show its first failing signs before October-November.


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: RogueBeaver on June 28, 2013, 06:22:32 AM
All the non-Forum polls showed the Liberals in the mid-high 30s to begin with. Anyhoo, Del Mastro's donor records are being seized.  (http://www.cbc.ca/news/politics/story/2013/06/27/pol-dean-del-mastro-investigation-deepens.html) RCMP also obtained warrants to search Duffy's PEI "residence" and Senate office per CTV.


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: DC Al Fine on June 28, 2013, 07:31:30 AM
New Nanos poll.

Liberals 34, Conservatives 29, NDP 25, Green 6, Bloc 4.

Atlantic: Liberal 40, NDP 35, Conservatives 22, Green 4 (caution, small sample)
Québec: Liberal 35, NDP 30, Bloc 15, Conservatives 13, Green 8
Ontario: Liberal 41, Conservative 29, NDP 22, Green 7
Prairies: Conservatives 54, Liberal 25, NDP 17, Green 3
BC: Conservatives 31, NDP 30, Liberals 28, Green 11

BC & Quebec are doing to be brutal dogfights.


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: RogueBeaver on June 28, 2013, 01:50:45 PM
Interim Laval mayor Alexandre Duplessis has resigned due to a prostitution scandal which involved extortion and cross-dressing. More to come.  (http://www.cbc.ca/news/canada/montreal/story/2013/06/28/montreal-laval-alexandre-duplessis-resigns.html)  Well beyond The Onion's wildest dreams. (http://www.lapresse.ca/actualites/montreal/201306/28/01-4666001-le-maire-de-laval-demissionne.php) Come on Toronto, try and keep up. :P


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: Hatman 🍁 on June 28, 2013, 06:57:50 PM
Interim Laval mayor Alexandre Duplessis has resigned due to a prostitution scandal which involved extortion and cross-dressing. More to come.  (http://www.cbc.ca/news/canada/montreal/story/2013/06/28/montreal-laval-alexandre-duplessis-resigns.html)  Well beyond The Onion's wildest dreams. (http://www.lapresse.ca/actualites/montreal/201306/28/01-4666001-le-maire-de-laval-demissionne.php) Come on Toronto, try and keep up. :P

Wow lol.

BTW, have you read the Beaverton? It's just as good as the Onion.


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: RogueBeaver on June 29, 2013, 09:37:26 AM
Marois will recall the National Assembly tomorrow to pass BTW legislation for the construction workers.


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: MaxQue on June 30, 2013, 03:03:00 AM
Interim Laval mayor Alexandre Duplessis has resigned due to a prostitution scandal which involved extortion and cross-dressing. More to come.  (http://www.cbc.ca/news/canada/montreal/story/2013/06/28/montreal-laval-alexandre-duplessis-resigns.html)  Well beyond The Onion's wildest dreams. (http://www.lapresse.ca/actualites/montreal/201306/28/01-4666001-le-maire-de-laval-demissionne.php) Come on Toronto, try and keep up. :P

News reports seems to be than Martine Beaugrand is the favorite to succeed him. She is one of the two municipal councillors which didn't took part into the illegal financing schemes at Laval (on 21 councillors), according to a witness at the Charbonneau inquiry. Previously working in some health habits social entreprise which organise well-known events about exercise, alimentation and somking.


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: World politics is up Schmitt creek on June 30, 2013, 03:16:47 AM
I hate to ask but...is Alexandre Duplessis any relation?


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: MaxQue on June 30, 2013, 03:23:42 AM
I hate to ask but...is Alexandre Duplessis any relation?

Would doubt it. Maurice had no kids and was from Trois-Rivières area. Alexandre Duplessis family are important powerbrokers in Laval since decades. Given than mobility was quite low before Quiet Revolution and than Duplessis is a common last name, I would lean towards no.

I would also suppose than news would have reported it, if they were related.


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: RogueBeaver on July 01, 2013, 07:30:53 AM
TC2 has the Nanos projection: 132 Grits, 98 Tories, 77 Dippers. The seat breakdowns are very interesting, to say the least. (http://www.tooclosetocall.ca/2013/06/28-juin-2013-sondage-nanos-montre-le.html#more)

Hill Times doesn't give us anything new on the shuffle.  (http://www.hilltimes.com/news/news/2013/07/01/pm-harper-prepares-to-shuffle-his-cabinet/35231?page_requested=1)


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: DC Al Fine on July 01, 2013, 08:32:18 AM
TC2 has the Nanos projection: 132 Grits, 98 Tories, 77 Dippers. The seat breakdowns are very interesting, to say the least. (http://www.tooclosetocall.ca/2013/06/28-juin-2013-sondage-nanos-montre-le.html#more)

Why aren't they doing projections with the new seats?


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: RogueBeaver on July 02, 2013, 10:06:04 AM
Ted Menzies is retiring in 2015. (https://www.facebook.com/AlthiaRaj/posts/669353709745946) So if Flaherty leaves then Clement isn't just the best option- he's the only option for Finance.


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: RogueBeaver on July 02, 2013, 10:13:31 AM
Looks like our oppo research team gave Sun this tape of Trudeau saying he never took a dime of speaking fees. (http://www.sunnewsnetwork.ca/video/2516303412001) I'm more interested in a tape where he discusses foreign policy or the monarchy myself.


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: Poirot on July 02, 2013, 04:37:38 PM
TC2 has the Nanos projection: 132 Grits, 98 Tories, 77 Dippers. The seat breakdowns are very interesting, to say the least. (http://www.tooclosetocall.ca/2013/06/28-juin-2013-sondage-nanos-montre-le.html#more)

Why aren't they doing projections with the new seats?

He is probably waiting for the process of redistribution to be completed in all provinces. (and he could also be waiting for the transposed results on new map by Elections Canada)

I think his model is mostly change in numbers from last election. Outremont (but not with new map) is shown to be 44% LPC to 38% NDP.


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: bryanbreguet on July 03, 2013, 05:28:52 AM
Quote
Why aren't they doing projections with the new seats?


He is probably waiting for the process of redistribution to be completed in all provinces. (and he could also be waiting for the transposed results on new map by Elections Canada)

I think his model is mostly change in numbers from last election. Outremont (but not with new map) is shown to be 44% LPC to 38% NDP.

Exactly. I (I'm the owner of too close to call) need to wait for the process to be completed. And hopefully Election Canada will indeed publish a transposition of the votes to the new map. If they don't, I'll have a lot more work to do.


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: Hatman 🍁 on July 03, 2013, 08:54:20 AM
Quote
Why aren't they doing projections with the new seats?


He is probably waiting for the process of redistribution to be completed in all provinces. (and he could also be waiting for the transposed results on new map by Elections Canada)

I think his model is mostly change in numbers from last election. Outremont (but not with new map) is shown to be 44% LPC to 38% NDP.

Exactly. I (I'm the owner of too close to call) need to wait for the process to be completed. And hopefully Election Canada will indeed publish a transposition of the votes to the new map. If they don't, I'll have a lot more work to do.

Hey, it's Earl here from the Canadian Election Atlas. Welcome to the Forum! :)


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: RogueBeaver on July 03, 2013, 11:16:03 AM
Trudeaumania still alive and well in the Atlantic provinces. (http://www.cbc.ca/news/canada/prince-edward-island/story/2013/07/03/nb-trudeau-atlantic-poll-1150.html)


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: DC Al Fine on July 03, 2013, 01:02:41 PM
Trudeaumania still alive and well in the Atlantic provinces. (http://www.cbc.ca/news/canada/prince-edward-island/story/2013/07/03/nb-trudeau-atlantic-poll-1150.html)

With those numbers even MacKay is vulnerable.


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: Peter the Lefty on July 03, 2013, 03:31:32 PM
New Abacus poll:
Liberals–29%
Conservatives–27%
NDP–26%
Greens–10%
Bloc–6%


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: Hatman 🍁 on July 03, 2013, 03:35:03 PM
New Abacus poll:
Liberals–29%
Conservatives–27%
NDP–26%
Greens–10%
Bloc–6%


Uhh... what?


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: RogueBeaver on July 03, 2013, 03:58:12 PM
Abacus is junk.


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: DC Al Fine on July 03, 2013, 04:05:08 PM

And they don't like releasing their regional numbers >:(


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: You kip if you want to... on July 03, 2013, 04:09:42 PM

And they don't like releasing their regional numbers >:(

Seems pretty inane not to for a country with a region like Quebec.


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: RogueBeaver on July 03, 2013, 04:52:10 PM
Only a few pollsters do that though. The best have regionals (esp. Quebec-only polls) and demographic breakdowns too.


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: You kip if you want to... on July 03, 2013, 04:56:53 PM
Probably a silly question, but should Christie Clark end up being deeply unpopular at the time of the next federal election, will Justin Trudeau be trying to run away from the BC Liberals or can voters actively separate the two, rather different, entities?


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: Hatman 🍁 on July 03, 2013, 05:06:17 PM
Probably a silly question, but should Christie Clark end up being deeply unpopular at the time of the next federal election, will Justin Trudeau be trying to run away from the BC Liberals or can voters actively separate the two, rather different, entities?

They are very different parties. The BC Liberals get more votes from federal Tories than from the federal Liberals.


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: DC Al Fine on July 03, 2013, 05:14:24 PM
Probably a silly question, but should Christie Clark end up being deeply unpopular at the time of the next federal election, will Justin Trudeau be trying to run away from the BC Liberals or can voters actively separate the two, rather different, entities?

They are very different parties. The BC Liberals get more votes from federal Tories than from the federal Liberals.

Indeed. Provincial parties vary widely in how close they are to their federal parties. The BC & Liberals are almost completely severed from their federal counterparts and the voters treat them that way.


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: RogueBeaver on July 03, 2013, 06:28:20 PM
Annual financial reports are out: Tories raised $17.3 million, Grits 8.2 (+1.3 from leadership contenders), NDP 7.7. (http://www.winnipegfreepress.com/canada/tory-money-machine-faltered-in-2012-as-opposition-parties-up-their-game-214209321.html)


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: Peter the Lefty on July 04, 2013, 02:54:24 AM
Well, that would explain it.  I remember literally laughing seeing the Greens at 10%.  I'd never heard of that company before seeing that poll. 


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: RogueBeaver on July 04, 2013, 08:20:24 AM
While we're on the subject of polling, here's Grenier's take on the recent ones.  (http://www.theglobeandmail.com/news/politics/trudeaus-liberals-lead-extend-national-polling-lead-over-tories/article12961830/)  Plus a CTV one on non-horserace stuff like approvals. (http://www.ctvnews.ca/canada/ctv-poll-30-per-cent-of-canadians-think-harper-gov-t-should-be-re-elected-1.1352458)


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: RogueBeaver on July 04, 2013, 09:06:18 AM
Diane Ablonczy will retire in 2015, opening up her slot of junior foreign minister for the Americas.


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: RogueBeaver on July 04, 2013, 09:09:33 AM
Marjory LeBreton is retiring as Government Leader in the Senate, she's facing mandatory retirement before the election.


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: DC Al Fine on July 04, 2013, 09:49:30 AM
Marjory LeBreton is retiring as Government Leader in the Senate, she's facing mandatory retirement before the election.

Who would take her cabinet spot?


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: RogueBeaver on July 04, 2013, 09:55:28 AM
No idea. Weirdly in his statement, Harper says that he'll be consulting the Senate caucus before naming her replacement. Sun reporting that the next Senate leader will not be a member of Cabinet, which may be a first. CBC has an interactive shuffle game but like the Globe's earlier one 'tis incomplete.  (http://www.cbc.ca/news/interactives/cabinet-2013/?cmp=rss&utm_source=twitterfeed&utm_medium=twitter) Particularly on Atlantic possibilities. We still don't know what's going on with Flaherty.


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: DC Al Fine on July 04, 2013, 10:00:09 AM
No idea. Weirdly in his statement, Harper says that he'll be consulting the Senate caucus before naming her replacement. Sun reporting that the next Senate leader will not be a member of Cabinet, which may be a first. CBC has an interactive shuffle game but like the Globe's earlier one 'tis incomplete.  (http://www.cbc.ca/news/interactives/cabinet-2013/?cmp=rss&utm_source=twitterfeed&utm_medium=twitter) Particularly on Atlantic possibilities. We still don't know what's going on with Flaherty.

Should know in a week or so.


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: RogueBeaver on July 04, 2013, 10:12:26 AM
Rae joins UT as a senior fellow.  (http://www.publicpolicy.utoronto.ca/blogs/view/bob-rae-joins-the-university-of-toronto-the-honourable-bob-rae-has-joined-the-uoft-as-a-distinguished-senior-fellow-at-the-school-of-public-policy-and-governance-sppg-effective-july-1)


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: DC Al Fine on July 04, 2013, 11:23:13 AM
Apparently the objectivist Freedom Party will be running former Tory candidate and guy with a famous nephew Al Gretzky in London West.


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: RogueBeaver on July 04, 2013, 06:50:45 PM
CTV and GM report that the party originally thought about reimbursing Duffy from their own funds before balking at the cost. (http://www.theglobeandmail.com/news/politics/tories-planned-to-repay-duffy-from-party-funds-but-balked-at-cost-files-show/article13012003/) RCMP documents also show that Duffy had a pattern of filing fraudulent expense claims. Details from Fife at 11 as usual.

As for the shuffle, I'm not making any portfolio predictions but I will try and guess who's in and out- excluding those already confirmed. Out: Toews, Kent, O'Connor, Fantino. In: Alexander, Glover, Rempel, Poilievre, Bergen. Also a cool list of dos and don't for would-bes. (http://www.lobbymonitor.ca/2013/07/04/dont-call-laureen-harper-the-dos-and-donts-of-pushing-for-a-cabinet-seat/11960)


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: RogueBeaver on July 05, 2013, 06:34:18 AM
Toews will announce his retirement today. (http://www.cbc.ca/news/politics/story/2013/07/04/pol-vp-weston-cabinet-shuffle-harper.html) Another retirement may come early next week. (http://www.calgaryherald.com/opinion/columnists/Braid+Tory+guard+youth+moves/8619214/story.html)


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: RogueBeaver on July 05, 2013, 10:12:02 AM
La Presse reporting that Bernier may get promoted, Ambrose will replace Paradis at Industry, Flaherty might leave- his wife wants him to move on. (http://www.lapresse.ca/actualites/politique-canadienne/201307/05/01-4667886-quatre-ministres-quittent-le-gouvernement-harper.php)


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: Hash on July 05, 2013, 10:14:04 AM
La Presse reporting that Bernier may get promoted (http://www.lapresse.ca/actualites/politique-canadienne/201307/05/01-4667886-quatre-ministres-quittent-le-gouvernement-harper.php)

what is this i don't even


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: RogueBeaver on July 05, 2013, 10:22:14 AM
We agree there. Could be a political rather than policy job.


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: RogueBeaver on July 05, 2013, 10:51:53 AM
Kent says he's running even if dropped. Says on FB that younger people deserve a chance and he'd be better serving his constituents as a backbencher. (https://m.facebook.com/PeterKentMP/posts/10151680415321435)


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: RogueBeaver on July 05, 2013, 04:57:01 PM
Ivison says that Flaherty's leaving and that Baird's back early from Asia. Hinted on P&P just now that Baird could replace Flaherty.


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: RogueBeaver on July 06, 2013, 07:10:57 AM
Shuffle on Wednesday. (http://www.lapresse.ca/actualites/politique-canadienne/201307/05/01-4668263-stephen-harper-nommera-plusieurs-nouveaux-ministres-mercredi.php)


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: RogueBeaver on July 06, 2013, 08:12:54 AM
Lac-Megantic destroyed after a chemical freight train explodes. (http://www.lapresse.ca/actualites/justice-et-affaires-criminelles/faits-divers/201307/06/01-4668289-un-train-de-carburant-explose-a-lac-megantic.php)


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: Thomas D on July 06, 2013, 08:14:17 AM
I hope everyone up there is okay.

In English:

http://www.cbc.ca/news/canada/story/2013/07/06/quebec-train-derailment-fire.html


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: RogueBeaver on July 06, 2013, 08:21:30 AM
Combine that with the forest fires which have been raging across the north... not good at all. They're briefing right now, no casualties reported thus far.


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: RogueBeaver on July 06, 2013, 09:50:39 AM
There are people unaccounted for in Lac-Megantic, emergency workers haven't been to get close enough to search for casualties. Here's a chopper's eye view courtesy of the SQ.

https://twitter.com/sureteduquebec/status/353519189769732096/photo/1


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: RogueBeaver on July 06, 2013, 09:24:44 PM
Couillard could run in Roberval of all places (http://www.radio-canada.ca/regions/saguenay-lac/2013/07/06/004-philippe-couillard-circonscription-roberval.shtml). Montreal, Quebec City, now ROQ.


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: DC Al Fine on July 06, 2013, 09:42:47 PM
Couillard could run in Roberval of all places (http://www.radio-canada.ca/regions/saguenay-lac/2013/07/06/004-philippe-couillard-circonscription-roberval.shtml). Montreal, Quebec City, now ROQ.

Qu'est-ce que c'est le f**k?


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: MaxQue on July 07, 2013, 12:15:57 AM
Well, he has an house in that area, no?


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: RogueBeaver on July 07, 2013, 07:13:52 AM
Yep. I was merely pointing out his lack of geographic consistency. :P


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: RogueBeaver on July 08, 2013, 10:11:24 AM
Toews is resigning effective tomorrow both from Cabinet and Parliament to return to the private sector. Can't say I'll miss him.


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: RogueBeaver on July 08, 2013, 03:01:35 PM
Harper's been interviewing current and prospective ministers at Harrington. (http://www.calgaryherald.com/news/national/Harper+meets+with+Harrington+Lake+setting+stage+cabinet/8631075/story.html)


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: Hatman 🍁 on July 09, 2013, 10:14:56 AM
I see Margaret Wente is up to her old journalistic standards. Creating quite a bit of controversy.


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: DC Al Fine on July 09, 2013, 10:46:40 AM
I see Margaret Wente is up to her old journalistic standards. Creating quite a bit of controversy.

My personal favourite Wente incident is when she wrote columns about how religious conservatism is going to die in Canada and religious conservatism is going to take over Canada in the same month.


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: RogueBeaver on July 09, 2013, 11:11:05 AM
Yeah, she's been a joke for eons, even without the serial plagiarism. And as usual it isn't remotely original, managing to offend both men and women. Both male and female journos in my Twitter feed were snarking this morning about it. The only Globe people I read are Perreaux, Ibbitson and Radwanski. Don't get me started on Simpson, who's stuck in a 1992 timewarp. Their editorial last Friday was a perfect self parody of elitist Moderate Heroism.

Here's a good WFP article on Toews: never took or proferred advice, a strong regional minister but not particularly visible. (http://www.winnipegfreepress.com/opinion/columnists/toews-departure-expected-succession-planning-lags-214712561.html) They hope Bergen, Glover or Fletcher- whoever becomes senior MB minister- has a higher local profile.


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: DC Al Fine on July 09, 2013, 11:15:42 AM
Yeah, she's been a joke for eons, even without the serial plagiarism. And as usual it isn't remotely original, managing to offend both men and women. Both male and female journos in my Twitter feed were snarking this morning about it. The only Globe people I read are Perreaux, Ibbitson and Radwanski. Don't get me started on Simpson, who's stuck in a 1992 timewarp. Their editorial last Friday was a perfect self parody of elitist Moderate Heroism.

I don't read Simpson. What do you mean by "stuck in a 1992 timewarp"?


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: RogueBeaver on July 09, 2013, 11:24:38 AM
Like the past 20 years of political life never happened. Constitutional wars, Moderate Heroism, etc. I mean really, during the QC campaign last year he was talking about referenda. If you read one or 2 of his columns you've read 'em all.


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: RogueBeaver on July 09, 2013, 01:21:37 PM
MacKay: this isn't my last public appearance at MOD.  (http://www.cbc.ca/news/politics/story/2013/07/09/pol-defence-minister-peter-mackay-afghanistan.html) Not that any of us ever thought he'd be moved. :P


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: RogueBeaver on July 09, 2013, 05:02:01 PM
Shuffle next week due to Lac-Megantic. (http://www.winnipegfreepress.com/canada/cabinet-shuffle-in-flux-in-the-aftermath-of-rail-tragedy-in-quebec-214813961.html)


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: Hatman 🍁 on July 09, 2013, 10:00:19 PM
Nova Scotia has earned its highest ever credit rating. Finally recognition for the sacrifices the Dexter government has endured. Hopefully this gives the NDP a boost in Nova Scotia.


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: RogueBeaver on July 09, 2013, 10:04:57 PM
Globe says PCO has prepared a briefing book for the next Finance Minister. (http://www.theglobeandmail.com/news/national/for-harper-crafting-a-new-cabinet-will-be-no-easy-task/article13103821/) IMO probably Clement with an outside shot at Baird. Rajotte upsets regional balance, would more likely get the House Leadership if promoted, and Harper's also an Albertan. Paradis and Bernier are non-starters.


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: RogueBeaver on July 10, 2013, 07:52:07 PM
Agreed 100% w/Coyne here. (http://fullcomment.nationalpost.com/2013/07/10/andrew-coyne-beware-those-using-lac-megantic-disaster-to-further-their-own-agendas/)


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: Hatman 🍁 on July 10, 2013, 08:20:06 PM
Reminds me of the gun debate down south.  The NDP brings up a very good point, and the Tories are using people's emotions in a tragedy to say "now is not that time for politics". I think that is more disgusting.


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: RogueBeaver on July 10, 2013, 08:32:41 PM
Unsurprisingly, a new study suggests that people are more interested in negative political news.  (http://www.thestar.com/news/canada/2013/07/10/public_wants_bad_political_news_study_finds.html) MacKay is restoring British ranks in the RCAF (http://www.canada.com/Blog+RCAF+could+follow+army+with+historic+British+style+ranks+MacKay+says/8635902/story.html)- but as Matt Gurney wrote yesterday in the NP, there needs to be concrete stuff as well like proper procurement and increased funding. Then there's the pilot program in Alberta for restoring our ROTC equivalent.


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: DC Al Fine on July 11, 2013, 12:57:05 PM
Grenier says Trudeaumania is wearing off. (http://www.threehundredeight.com/2013/07/june-2013-federal-polling-averages.html) Also, the Greens could pick up a 2nd seat next election.


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: Hatman 🍁 on July 11, 2013, 01:25:12 PM
No surprise that it is Victoria :P


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: RogueBeaver on July 12, 2013, 09:46:10 AM
Rideau Hall closed to interior tours tomorrow but visitors gallery, where PPG is apparently normally jammed, open. Make of that what we will. :P


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: RogueBeaver on July 12, 2013, 05:02:41 PM
Ivison says shuffle's on Monday.


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: RogueBeaver on July 12, 2013, 07:01:02 PM
As does Fife. Tory convention is now rescheduled for Halloween- or Oct. 31- Nov. 2, to be precise. (http://www.cbc.ca/news/politics/story/2013/07/12/pol-conservative-party-convention-.html) The Wallin audit is scheduled for release in a month. (http://www.cbc.ca/news/politics/story/2013/07/12/pol-senate-comeau.html)


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: RogueBeaver on July 13, 2013, 12:43:35 PM
Ritz's events are cancelled for Monday. Looks like he'll get moved or more likely, dropped.


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: RogueBeaver on July 14, 2013, 08:35:50 AM
HuffPo confirms what Ivison hinted 3 months ago: Poilievre will enter Cabinet. (http://www.huffingtonpost.ca/2013/07/14/pierre-poilievre-cabinet-shuffle_n_3592525.html) Dunno what it will be, but an economic post would make most sense. :)


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: DC Al Fine on July 14, 2013, 08:45:17 AM
HuffPo confirms what Ivison hinted 3 months ago: Poilievre will enter Cabinet. (http://www.huffingtonpost.ca/2013/07/14/pierre-poilievre-cabinet-shuffle_n_3592525.html) Dunno what it will be, but an economic post would make most sense. :)

About time. Pollivere is more competent than half of cabinet. Look at the people who made it before him... Oda, Guergis, O'Connor?!


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: RogueBeaver on July 14, 2013, 01:25:32 PM
Flaherty's staying.  (http://www.theglobeandmail.com/news/politics/flaherty-to-remain-finance-minister-in-shuffled-harper-cabinet/article13210541/)


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: RogueBeaver on July 14, 2013, 05:43:22 PM
On a completely different subject, the mayor of Huntingdon kills kittens with his car.  (http://www.winnipegfreepress.com/canada/mayor-sorry-about-the-killing-kitten-jokes-215452451.html) What a depraved individual.


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: Hatman 🍁 on July 14, 2013, 07:17:24 PM
I dont understand why Quebecers love shock jocks so much... but Huntingdon isn't even in the right wing part of Quebec, how did this guy get elected?


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: RogueBeaver on July 14, 2013, 07:28:46 PM
He's been in loads of controversy for years on a variety of different subjects. In more shuffle news, looks like Rob Moore's the new regional minister for NB and probably the new Fisheries Minister.


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: MaxQue on July 14, 2013, 08:01:42 PM
I dont understand why Quebecers love shock jocks so much... but Huntingdon isn't even in the right wing part of Quebec, how did this guy get elected?

If you thing than municipal races are based on ideology in Quebec...
In Montréal, yes, elsewhere, no.


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: Hatman 🍁 on July 14, 2013, 10:07:56 PM
I dont understand why Quebecers love shock jocks so much... but Huntingdon isn't even in the right wing part of Quebec, how did this guy get elected?

If you thing than municipal races are based on ideology in Quebec...
In Montréal, yes, elsewhere, no.

They're just basically popularity contests then? What about Quebec City or some of the mid-sized cities like Sherbrooke or Three Rivers?


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: RogueBeaver on July 14, 2013, 10:11:30 PM
Fife just had a mega-update on the shuffle: MacKay, Kenney and Moore could be on the move. Raitt, Alexander, Bergen, Rempel, Rob Moore are getting promoted. Yellich, Lukiwski, Poilievre get junior posts, which I assume mean ministries of state.


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: MaxQue on July 14, 2013, 11:46:45 PM
I dont understand why Quebecers love shock jocks so much... but Huntingdon isn't even in the right wing part of Quebec, how did this guy get elected?

If you thing than municipal races are based on ideology in Quebec...
In Montréal, yes, elsewhere, no.

They're just basically popularity contests then? What about Quebec City or some of the mid-sized cities like Sherbrooke or Three Rivers?


Sometimes yes, sometimes no. Even if the votes aren't ideological, some elections are fought on local issues (which sometimes aren't ideological, but on mergers, autocratic mayors, labor issues, some controversial projects...).

Quebec City politics are simple. You're with Labeaume or against him.
Sherbrooke has quite rocky municipal politics, with lots of people, representing various interest groups and groups of voters, the one with the biggest coalition wins. Trois-Rivières is like Quebec City, either you're with the mayor or against him.


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: Hatman 🍁 on July 15, 2013, 08:12:06 AM
Good to know. May I pick your brain during the municipal elections in the Fall? I'm going to need someone to educate me on the various races for my blog. And perhaps also direct me to some maps/past results as well.


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: RogueBeaver on July 15, 2013, 12:20:39 PM
Here's the full list of both ministers  (http://www.pm.gc.ca/eng/cabinet.asp?featureId=8&pageId=38) and committee memberships. (http://www.pm.gc.ca/eng/feature.asp?pageId=53) Some surprises: Kenney replaces Finley, who goes to Public Works. Alexander going straight into full Cabinet at Immigration a bit surprising. Glover to Heritage, thought she'd be more logical for Public Safety- but she also gets a seat on P&P, so Harper obviously thinks the world of her. Paradis gets demoted to a useless ministry- probably would've been dumped IMO were more options available in Quebec. The only minister of state with an important agenda is Poilievre at Democratic Reform, he'll be handling the Senate file. I thought Rempel was underpromoted, gets a pork-distributing junior ministry.


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: RogueBeaver on July 15, 2013, 12:32:52 PM
Harper also confirmed that there will be a Throne Speech this fall, hence prorogation. Plus a new policy agenda.


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: DC Al Fine on July 15, 2013, 07:32:44 PM
Just got back from a Tory event. Our candidate in Halifax West will be seeking the nomination provincially in Timberlea-Prospect, which was an NDP safe seat, but based more on personal votes than demographics. This solves an awkward problem. Dr. Pretty got re-districted out of our riding but wanted to run again federally.


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: RogueBeaver on July 15, 2013, 09:06:03 PM
Poilievre says Senate will be his top priority, elections and term limits foremost. (http://www.ottawacitizen.com/news/ottawa/Promoted+Pierre+Poilievre+vows+action+Senate+reform/8663589/story.html) Personally I'd prefer the Albertan system if there has to be a change. Term limits might be easier with mandatory retirement already in place. Plus they can be imposed de facto by appointing people who'd agree to self-limit.


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: RogueBeaver on July 16, 2013, 05:55:10 PM
Alberta PC MLA Mike Allen has resigned from caucus after being arrested by Minnesota police in a prostitution ring bust. (http://www.edmontonjournal.com/news/edmonton/Fort+McMurray+Mike+Allen+resigned/8668103/story.html)


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: RogueBeaver on July 16, 2013, 09:23:54 PM
Duffy e-mail witheld from the RCMP. (http://www.ctvnews.ca/politics/pmo-withholding-email-about-wright-duffy-deal-from-rcmp-sources-1.1370334)

WTF moment: MacKay's office sends out a line-by-line rebuttal of a Citizen column on his MOD tenure. (http://petermackay.ca/news/6141/)

Ivison suggests Poilievre's political objective is enabling the government to regain the outsider mantra.  (http://fullcomment.nationalpost.com/2013/07/16/john-ivison-pierre-poilievres-cabinet-appointment-may-signal-senate-reform-back-on-harper-agenda/?utm_source=dlvr.it&utm_medium=twitter)


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: Njall on July 17, 2013, 12:42:46 AM
Alberta PC MLA Mike Allen has resigned from caucus after being arrested by Minnesota police in a prostitution ring bust. (http://www.edmontonjournal.com/news/edmonton/Fort+McMurray+Mike+Allen+resigned/8668103/story.html)

*Sigh*


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: RogueBeaver on July 17, 2013, 05:33:00 PM
Ivison has this weird idea of Raitt being a leadership candidate (http://fullcomment.nationalpost.com/2013/07/17/john-ivison-how-lisa-raitt-became-a-possible-contender-to-succeed-stephen-harper/?utm_source=dlvr.it&utm_medium=twitter). She doesn't strike me as someone with ambitions for higher office.


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: Hatman 🍁 on July 17, 2013, 05:38:33 PM
Alberta PC MLA Mike Allen has resigned from caucus after being arrested by Minnesota police in a prostitution ring bust. (http://www.edmontonjournal.com/news/edmonton/Fort+McMurray+Mike+Allen+resigned/8668103/story.html)

*Sigh*

Any chance he'd resign his seat? A by-election in Fort Mac would have a record low turnout :P


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: Njall on July 18, 2013, 01:15:06 AM
Alberta PC MLA Mike Allen has resigned from caucus after being arrested by Minnesota police in a prostitution ring bust. (http://www.edmontonjournal.com/news/edmonton/Fort+McMurray+Mike+Allen+resigned/8668103/story.html)

*Sigh*

Any chance he'd resign his seat? A by-election in Fort Mac would have a record low turnout :P

I doubt it, at least for the immediate future, but if he's charged then that could change things.  If he does resign, this could be a tough seat for the PC's to hold, given the circumstances.  Allen won with 49% in 2012, versus 43% for the Wildroser (although the Wildroser was the incumbent, so take from that what you will).

But yeah, turnout would probably be very low.  I'm pretty sure less than 8,000 people voted there in the general election.


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: RogueBeaver on July 18, 2013, 08:41:23 AM
EKOS out: LPC 30, CPC 28, NDP 24. So JT's honeymoon was shorter than Iggy's. LOL.  (http://www.ipolitics.ca/2013/07/18/despite-tory-scandals-liberal-lead-shrinking-poll-shows/)


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: DC Al Fine on July 18, 2013, 10:52:29 AM
EKOS out: LPC 30, CPC 28, NDP 24. So JT's honeymoon was shorter than Iggy's. LOL.  (http://www.ipolitics.ca/2013/07/18/despite-tory-scandals-liberal-lead-shrinking-poll-shows/)

What ridiculously high number does EKOS have the Greens at?


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: Hatman 🍁 on July 18, 2013, 12:05:41 PM
EKOS out: LPC 30, CPC 28, NDP 24. So JT's honeymoon was shorter than Iggy's. LOL.  (http://www.ipolitics.ca/2013/07/18/despite-tory-scandals-liberal-lead-shrinking-poll-shows/)

What ridiculously high number does EKOS have the Greens at?

Forgetting about a party called the BQ? :P


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: DC Al Fine on July 18, 2013, 12:20:10 PM
EKOS out: LPC 30, CPC 28, NDP 24. So JT's honeymoon was shorter than Iggy's. LOL.  (http://www.ipolitics.ca/2013/07/18/despite-tory-scandals-liberal-lead-shrinking-poll-shows/)

What ridiculously high number does EKOS have the Greens at?

Forgetting about a party called the BQ? :P

Who?


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: Njall on July 18, 2013, 04:49:46 PM
EKOS out: LPC 30, CPC 28, NDP 24. So JT's honeymoon was shorter than Iggy's. LOL.  (http://www.ipolitics.ca/2013/07/18/despite-tory-scandals-liberal-lead-shrinking-poll-shows/)

What ridiculously high number does EKOS have the Greens at?

They're showing the Greens at 8.5% nationally.  They're also showing them as getting 13.6% in BC, 10.9% in Manitoba (albeit with an 11.2% MOE) and 9.7% in Ontario.


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: Hatman 🍁 on July 18, 2013, 05:17:04 PM
The poll is on our website: http://ekos.com/admin/articles/FG-2013-07-18.pdf


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: MaxQue on July 18, 2013, 07:17:37 PM
I doubt it. Greens are too high and first ool to have BQ over 20% since a while.


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: RogueBeaver on July 21, 2013, 07:39:52 AM
Dexter isn't thrilled about the Jobs Grant (http://www.cbc.ca/news/politics/story/2013/07/20/pol-the-house-dexter-feds-jobs.html), and the BC NDP wants Dix to announce he's getting OUT by September. (http://www.canada.com/business/will+face+civil+stays+helm+critics/8688025/story.html)


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: RogueBeaver on July 21, 2013, 08:48:04 PM
Mulcair will apparently be shuffling his shadow cabinet this week. Any clues, resident Dippers?


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: RogueBeaver on July 22, 2013, 12:02:33 PM
308 takes a look at EKOS. "Weird" about sums it up. (http://www.threehundredeight.com/2013/07/ekos-poll-shows-flagging-liberal-support.html?spref=tw) QC is 38 BQ, 23 LPC, 9 NDP, 8 CPC, with 5 Grits in Alberta. LOL.


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: RogueBeaver on July 22, 2013, 12:51:00 PM
My take: Alexander has policy authority, Kenney retains political and Uppal just got MacKay'd.  (http://www.cbc.ca/news/politics/inside-politics-blog/2013/07/will-canadas-lead-multiculturalism-minister-please-stand-up.html)


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: RogueBeaver on July 24, 2013, 06:43:14 AM
 Ontario Tories widen their lead to 36-31-27. (http://www.thestar.com/news/queenspark/2013/07/24/tories_add_to_lead_over_liberals_in_byelections_race.bb.html)


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: RogueBeaver on July 25, 2013, 07:14:49 AM
Chow still thinking about the mayoralty. (http://toronto.ctvnews.ca/olivia-chow-still-thinking-about-running-for-mayor-1.1381539)


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: RogueBeaver on July 25, 2013, 09:15:18 PM
More in the Harb saga, RCMP looking at him for potential breach of trust. (http://o.canada.com/2013/07/25/court-orders-senate-to-hand-over-mac-harb-documents-to-rcmp/#.UfHRnhNBfj0.twitter)


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: RogueBeaver on July 25, 2013, 10:55:31 PM
Vellacott will retire in 2015. (http://www.canada.com/news/canada/Vellacott+again/8708605/story.html)


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: RogueBeaver on July 26, 2013, 10:29:24 AM
Dewar has been fined $7000 for illegal robocalls during his leadership campaign, ditto the company in question.


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: Hatman 🍁 on July 26, 2013, 02:50:11 PM
Dewar has been fined $7000 for illegal robocalls during his leadership campaign, ditto the company in question.

Je-zus.


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: Peter the Lefty on July 27, 2013, 05:14:36 PM
Dewar has been fined $7000 for illegal robocalls during his leadership campaign, ditto the company in question.
Rather sad, I always thought he was at least a good guy, even though he would have been a bad leader.


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: Peter the Lefty on July 27, 2013, 05:21:08 PM
In other news, Trudeau flip-flops on pot.
http://www.sunnewsnetwork.ca/sunnews/straighttalk/archives/2013/07/20130727-083208.html (http://www.sunnewsnetwork.ca/sunnews/straighttalk/archives/2013/07/20130727-083208.html)


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: RogueBeaver on July 27, 2013, 05:35:20 PM
These sorts of fines have cropped up with MPs of all parties (most recently Garneau this spring) over the years. In this case it was not fully identifying the caller, a minor infraction.  (http://www.thestar.com/news/canada/2013/07/26/robocalls_paul_dewar_fined_7000_by_regulator_over_election_campaign_robocalls.html)

In other news, with prorogation impending the new session probably won't start till after Thanksgiving, maybe the Tory policy convention in early November. (http://www.thestar.com/news/insight/2013/07/26/stephen_harper_entitled_to_shut_down_parliament.html) Not that there's much legislation impending anyways.


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: RogueBeaver on July 27, 2013, 05:46:01 PM
In other news, Trudeau flip-flops on pot.
http://www.sunnewsnetwork.ca/sunnews/straighttalk/archives/2013/07/20130727-083208.html (http://www.sunnewsnetwork.ca/sunnews/straighttalk/archives/2013/07/20130727-083208.html)

He continues writing his opponents ads, news at 11.


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: Njall on July 27, 2013, 09:02:48 PM
In other news, Trudeau flip-flops on pot.
http://www.sunnewsnetwork.ca/sunnews/straighttalk/archives/2013/07/20130727-083208.html (http://www.sunnewsnetwork.ca/sunnews/straighttalk/archives/2013/07/20130727-083208.html)

Unless I'm mistaken, he had mentioned support of marijuana legalization during the leadership campaign.


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: RogueBeaver on July 27, 2013, 09:13:07 PM
In other news, Trudeau flip-flops on pot.
http://www.sunnewsnetwork.ca/sunnews/straighttalk/archives/2013/07/20130727-083208.html (http://www.sunnewsnetwork.ca/sunnews/straighttalk/archives/2013/07/20130727-083208.html)

Unless I'm mistaken, he had mentioned support of marijuana legalization during the leadership campaign.


He opposed it as recently as January 2012, but said his position had "evolved."  (http://www.huffingtonpost.ca/2013/07/25/justin-trudeau-marijuana-legalization_n_3655736.html) Just like his position on the gun registry.


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: RogueBeaver on July 29, 2013, 11:55:11 AM
Here's how there can be a fall election in Ontario: NCM.  (http://www.ontariopc.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/07/2-LEVAC.pdf)


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: RogueBeaver on July 31, 2013, 02:50:46 PM
Poilievre announced a few minutes ago that the government's factum on Senate reform would be uploaded today. (http://www.cbc.ca/news/politics/story/2013/07/31/pol-poilievre-announcment-senate-reform.html?cmp=rss&utm_source=twitterfeed&utm_medium=twitter) Among the referential questions are term limits, provincial consultation and abolition. Needless to say this is about a political reboot.


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: Smid on July 31, 2013, 04:57:56 PM
Including abolition is a way of carrying the NDP along. I seem to remember an article about the NDP not being able to abolish the Senate, if forming government at a future election, and needing to have a slight policy shift for a workable approach. If an inquiry were to say that abolition were impractical, it could give them the opportunity to change position but still save face.


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: RogueBeaver on July 31, 2013, 05:13:47 PM
Abolition would definitely require unanimous consent, which is a non-starter on anything constitutional, much less a fundamental change like abolition. Mulcair knows that perfectly well. If the Court says, as they almost certainly will, that consultation is required then there are two options: reopen the Constitution or run against the provinces and implicitly, the Court in 2015. The only reform that can be done unilaterally is appoint senators who agree to voluntarily term-limit themselves. Plus given the provincial instability, with only the Western premiers (who will probably disagree among themselves) politically secure ATM, negotiating partners could change considerably even before the election.


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: Linus Van Pelt on July 31, 2013, 05:43:46 PM
As I read the Constitution, both abolition and an elected senate (at least if the latter were constitutionally binding on future governments' appointments) would require the consent of 7 provincial legislatures with at least 50% of the population, but term limits, not really being a "method of selection", could be done unanimously by Parliament under section 44.

Section 44 of the Constitution Act, 1982 states: "Subject to sections 41 and 42, Parliament may exclusively make laws amending the Constitution of Canada in relation to executive government of Canada or the Senate and House of Commons." Sections 41 and 42, meanwhile, specify subjects with a stricter amendment formula.

Section 41 is the strictest, requiring Parliament + all provincial legislatures, and lists the office of the Queen or GG, the composition of the Supreme Court, official languages, "the right of a province to a number of members in the House of Commons not less than the number of Senators by which the province is entitled to be represented at the time this Part comes into force" (:(), and amendments to the amendment formula itself. But nothing otherwise about the Senate is mentioned.

Section 42 lists subjects that require Parliament plus 2/3rds of provinces representing at least 50% of the population (which is also per section 38 the general amendment formula for subjects not mentioned). It lists (among a few other unrelated things) "the powers of the Senate and the method of selecting Senators", and "the number of members by which a province is entitled to be represented in the Senate and the residence qualifications of Senators".


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: DC Al Fine on July 31, 2013, 09:20:43 PM
FYI, orders came down from party headquarters to be ready for the writ to drop by next week. Apparently we're going to have a summer campaign.


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: RogueBeaver on July 31, 2013, 09:46:44 PM
FYI, orders came down from party headquarters to be ready for the writ to drop by next week. Apparently we're going to have a summer campaign.

Grit victory says the polls, but after BC I'm assuming incumbent wins till the votes are counted. :P


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: RogueBeaver on July 31, 2013, 10:58:51 PM
Stinson doesn't think Wynne's government will last beyond spring if there's a showdown on transit taxes, which is Horwath's line in the sand.  (http://fullcomment.nationalpost.com/2013/07/31/scott-stinson-clock-ticking-on-kathleen-wynnes-liberal-government-no-matter-who-wins-ontario-byelections/?utm_source=dlvr.it&utm_medium=twitter)


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: Hatman 🍁 on August 01, 2013, 12:00:15 AM
FYI, orders came down from party headquarters to be ready for the writ to drop by next week. Apparently we're going to have a summer campaign.

Ugh... same timing as the Quebec election last year, almost.


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: DC Al Fine on August 03, 2013, 01:25:59 PM
Baillie says Tories are ready for election call (http://www.capebretonpost.com/News/Local/2013-08-02/article-3337983/Baillie-says-Tories-are-ready-for-election-call/1)

All but 3 candidates nominated, and the 3 seats left are ones we don't have a hope in hell of winning. Kind of expecting an election call today, but nothing yet. :(


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: RogueBeaver on August 05, 2013, 09:01:28 AM
Ugh, more crap from hardened malcontents.  (http://www.torontosun.com/2013/08/04/pc-leader-tim-hudak-faces-leadership-challenge)


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: DC Al Fine on August 05, 2013, 09:10:50 AM
Ugh, more crap from hardened malcontents.  (http://www.torontosun.com/2013/08/04/pc-leader-tim-hudak-faces-leadership-challenge)

Is this Red Tories or right wingers pissed about him being insufficiently right wing?


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: You kip if you want to... on August 05, 2013, 09:17:28 AM
Why wasn't Hudak dumped after the last election anyway? This is what I don't understand.

The PC result wasn't good when you consider the lead they had before the campaign and it became about McGuinty Vs Hudak. And from what I gather, voters weren't exactly head-over-heels for Dalton.


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: DC Al Fine on August 05, 2013, 09:33:37 AM
Why wasn't Hudak dumped after the last election anyway? This is what I don't understand.

The PC result wasn't good when you consider the lead they had before the campaign and it became about McGuinty Vs Hudak. And from what I gather, voters weren't exactly head-over-heels for Dalton.

Typically in Canada if you pick up the pieces after a landslide defeat you get two kicks at the can. Hudak's predecessor was the exception because he followed up a landslide asskicking.... with another landslide asskicking.


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: RogueBeaver on August 05, 2013, 09:44:39 AM
Plus he reduced the Grits to a minority, albeit barely. Hudak's problems IMO are personality/skills: lacks political agility (the deer-in-headlights defensive crouch he was in when it leaked that he's pro-life 2 years ago) and brass knuckles. Former is perhaps workable, latter's innate. Plus these people don't have an alternative- you can't replace someone with no one. I highly doubt anyone they'd think of has those missing qualities.


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: RogueBeaver on August 06, 2013, 11:38:59 AM
Tragedy in NB: an escaped python strangled two young boys in their sleep.  (http://www.theglobeandmail.com/news/national/its-very-very-puzzling-snake-expert-mystified-by-new-brunswick-python-attack/article13610814/#dashboard/follows/) :( Animal experts are baffled.


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: RogueBeaver on August 06, 2013, 03:42:31 PM
Grit Sen. Rod Zimmer has resigned for health reasons.


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: RogueBeaver on August 07, 2013, 09:35:34 AM
Harper and Poilievre may brush aside the regional constitutional vetoes.  (http://www.canada.com/news/Harper+appears+sidestepping+constitutional+veto/8755289/story.html)


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: Smid on August 07, 2013, 10:53:03 PM
FYI, orders came down from party headquarters to be ready for the writ to drop by next week. Apparently we're going to have a summer campaign.

Nova Scotia Provincial Election Base Map, Key Map, and starting margins/notional results in Gallery, whenever the thread gets started.

Base Map:
()


Key Map:
()


Notional Results/Starting Margins:
()


And compare to last election, pre-redistribution:
()


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: RogueBeaver on August 07, 2013, 11:07:52 PM
Harb saga continues. (http://www.cbc.ca/news/politics/story/2013/08/07/pol-cp-mac-harb-loan.html)

On an earlier note, apparently the anti-Hudak push is from a small group of hardened malcontents based out of London. Not their first time either.


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: RogueBeaver on August 08, 2013, 08:47:36 AM
Jerry Dias, a senior CAW official, will be the president of the new labour federation UNIFOR. (http://www.thestar.com/news/canada/2013/07/07/caw_head_ken_lewenza_resigns_before_historic_union_merger.html) In more urgent news, Don Martin said on Twitter that the Senate leaders are negotiating to recall the Red Chamber to deal with the "really bad" Wallin audit before the RCMP is called in. Yikes.


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: RogueBeaver on August 09, 2013, 09:52:40 PM
The Sun is still on their anti-Hudak crusade, but they've never liked him anyways.  (http://www.ottawasun.com/2013/08/09/hudak-loyalists-fight-turf-tim-movement) Morons.


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: RogueBeaver on August 10, 2013, 09:39:11 AM
Grenier on why the anti-Hudak push is pointless. (http://www.huffingtonpost.ca/2013/08/09/tim-hudak-leadership-review_n_3731751.html)


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: RogueBeaver on August 11, 2013, 11:19:56 AM
Patti Starr now supports Harper because of his Mideast policy.  (https://twitter.com/adamgoldenberg/status/366586108076781568/photo/1)


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: Hatman 🍁 on August 11, 2013, 11:43:56 PM
Hudak deserves to stay IMO, but if I were a Tory, I probably wouldn't like him that much as a leader. But, he hasn't been terrible in terms of getting results for his party. Certainly an improvement over John "epic fail" Tory.

Anyways, when is this NS election supposed to  happen? DC, you've given us false information!


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: RogueBeaver on August 12, 2013, 12:02:25 AM
Heard October from NS journalists on Twitter. As for Hudak, Radwanski pinpointed this to a handful of senior people within the party bureaucracy plus caucus malcontents. Certainly crappy by-election polls aren't worth holding a review over.


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: DC Al Fine on August 12, 2013, 06:50:11 AM
Anyways, when is this NS election supposed to  happen? DC, you've given us false information!

Spent the last week running around helping the campaign get ready for an "IMMINENT ELECTION" and all for nothing :P

On another note, the Greens are only aiming for a half slate this time around, and the Atlantica Party is aiming to run 5-10 as independents. Also a member of Occupy is running as an independent in my riding... Occupy people really like my neighbourhood for some reason.


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: Hatman 🍁 on August 12, 2013, 07:01:51 AM
What is the Atlantica Party?


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: DC Al Fine on August 12, 2013, 07:24:46 AM

Soft libertarians. They also want the Atlantic provinces to merge, hence the name.


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: Hatman 🍁 on August 12, 2013, 08:48:37 AM

Soft libertarians. They also want the Atlantic provinces to merge, hence the name.

Oh. They shouldn't merge; in fact I would split them up further: Cape Breton and Acadia should become provinces and Labrador should become a territory. Of course, I would split up other provinces too- but that's a different story.


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: RogueBeaver on August 12, 2013, 09:39:38 AM
Russell thinks there's a shot of the Court allowing the government to unilaterally impose Senate term limits under Section 44.  (http://www.hilltimes.com/news/news/2013/08/12/supreme-court-likely-to-rule-parliament-can-unilaterally-impose-term-limits-experts/35574?page_requested=1)


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: RogueBeaver on August 12, 2013, 11:34:48 AM
Wallin will have to repay $140k, and someone tried to doctor the expense claims while they were being processed.


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: MaxQue on August 12, 2013, 03:57:07 PM
Former Option Nationale leader, Jean-Martin Aussant, is back to the job he was doing before he entered politics. High-ranking position for Morgan Stanley in London.

I don't see how a person can be the leader of an hard-left party and working at Morgan Stanley.


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: RogueBeaver on August 12, 2013, 04:17:02 PM
Last I checked ON was more pur-et-dur than hard-left, unlike QS. Plus I'm sure his economic views aren't terribly out of sync with his constituents. While we're on the subject of #polqc economic views, Couillard attacked the PQ from the left- no, not a typo- as "pseudo-social democrats." ROFLMAO.





Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: MaxQue on August 12, 2013, 04:37:01 PM
Last I checked ON was more pur-et-dur than hard-left, unlike QS. Plus I'm sure his economic views aren't terribly out of sync with his constituents. While we're on the subject of #polqc economic views, Couillard attacked the PQ from the left- no, not a typo- as "pseudo-social democrats." ROFLMAO.





They were asking free universities and nationalize plenty of things.


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: DC Al Fine on August 13, 2013, 06:20:30 AM

Soft libertarians. They also want the Atlantic provinces to merge, hence the name.

Oh. They shouldn't merge; in fact I would split them up further: Cape Breton and Acadia should become provinces and Labrador should become a territory. Of course, I would split up other provinces too- but that's a different story.

How would you define Acadia?


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: Hatman 🍁 on August 13, 2013, 07:03:07 AM

Soft libertarians. They also want the Atlantic provinces to merge, hence the name.

Oh. They shouldn't merge; in fact I would split them up further: Cape Breton and Acadia should become provinces and Labrador should become a territory. Of course, I would split up other provinces too- but that's a different story.

How would you define Acadia?

Francophone New Brunswick. It wouldn't exactly be contiguous, mind you- and perhaps parts of Nova Scotia might want to join as well.


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: RogueBeaver on August 13, 2013, 10:11:34 AM
Couillard will run in Roberval at the next election.


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: Hash on August 13, 2013, 10:15:46 AM
Couillard will run in Roberval at the next election.

That's a risky bet.


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: DC Al Fine on August 13, 2013, 10:18:43 AM

Soft libertarians. They also want the Atlantic provinces to merge, hence the name.

Oh. They shouldn't merge; in fact I would split them up further: Cape Breton and Acadia should become provinces and Labrador should become a territory. Of course, I would split up other provinces too- but that's a different story.

How would you define Acadia?

Francophone New Brunswick. It wouldn't exactly be contiguous, mind you- and perhaps parts of Nova Scotia might want to join as well.

Then it'd be really messed up geographically :P

()


I imagine if he wins the election, he'll take take the seat, but it's hardly safe. They couldn't find a Montreal MNA who wants to retire?


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: RogueBeaver on August 13, 2013, 10:41:01 AM
Guess not. Couillard made some noise about being ready for a fall election, but I'm still betting on the opposition parties toppling Marois on the budget. This splintering of the separatist vote is badly squeezing them yet no solution in sight.


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: RogueBeaver on August 13, 2013, 10:54:56 AM
MMA has been barred from Canadian operations due to a lack of liability insurance.  (http://www.lapresse.ca/actualites/dossiers/tragedie-a-lac-megantic/201308/13/01-4679461-mma-devra-cesser-ses-activites-au-canada.php) They're bankrupt in all senses anyways, good riddance.

PQ and CAQ rule out a fall election. (http://www.lapresse.ca/actualites/politique/politique-quebecoise/201308/12/01-4679301-le-pq-ecarte-lidee-dun-scrutin-automnal.php?utm_categorieinterne=trafficdrivers&utm_contenuinterne=cyberpresse_B13b_politique_2275309_section_POS1)


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: DC Al Fine on August 13, 2013, 01:17:31 PM
The 308 has it's Nova Scotia model ready to go. (http://www.threehundredeight.com/2013/08/the-new-projection-model-for-upcoming.html) :D

Current Projection:
Liberal: 44.7%, 28 seats
NDP: 25.8%, 13 seats
PC: 25.8%, 10 seats
Green: 3.0%, 0 seats

Roughly what's expected. Also the Liberals will have a b*tch of a time winning a majority if they do much worse than 45%.


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: DC Al Fine on August 13, 2013, 01:40:54 PM
Just took a look at the seat by seat results. Pretty typical stuff. Liberals gain a lot, NDP lose a lot, Tories gain and lose and basically break even. Personally I think the NDP are too weak in Halifax and too strong in the rural areas, but whatever.

Also the NDP are supposed to win Cumberland North... WTF?!?! It's a safe Tory seat. MLA gets arrested for drunk driving/fleeing the scene of a car crash, runs independently and the right wingers lose on vote splits during a record breaking year for the NDP. Obviously a prime candidate for the NDP to hold when they're sh**tting the bed ::)



Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: DC Al Fine on August 13, 2013, 01:57:07 PM
And here's a projection map

()


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: RogueBeaver on August 13, 2013, 06:52:05 PM
BC Green leader Jane Sterk is quitting politics on the 24th. (http://www.theglobeandmail.com/news/british-columbia/jane-sterk-stepping-down-as-bc-green-party-leader/article13746725/?cmpid=rss1&utm_source=dlvr.it&utm_medium=twitter)


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: Hatman 🍁 on August 13, 2013, 07:19:35 PM

I feel dirty seeing my colour scheme for an Eric Grenier projection ;)

I wonder if he is using Elections Nova Scotia's redistributed results completely? Remember, they looked at the most recent by-elections for some reason.


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: DC Al Fine on August 13, 2013, 08:58:53 PM
I think he used the redistributed by-election results. Inverness would've been much closer if he hadn't.


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: RogueBeaver on August 14, 2013, 10:04:05 AM
McDougall is quitting the PMO next month for a London job, and his replacement (not named yet) will be the eighth person to hold that job. Ivison says that's because McDougall was Wright's guy.

So what's everyone's over/under on an Ontario election next year, assuming Horwath sticks to her guns about no transit taxes? Mine's 50/50, will never believe Horwath pulls the trigger till I see it.


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: DC Al Fine on August 14, 2013, 10:49:45 AM
Roughly the same as Rogue Beaver.


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: Hatman 🍁 on August 14, 2013, 01:21:04 PM
I'm thinking 60-40 for the pull being plugged in the Spring. What do you guys think about Quebec?


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: RogueBeaver on August 14, 2013, 01:30:40 PM
I'd say quite probable. Marois is vulnerable, but never count out an incumbent.


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: MaxQue on August 14, 2013, 03:22:42 PM
I'm thinking 60-40 for the pull being plugged in the Spring. What do you guys think about Quebec?

Spring. Liberals wants an election this fall, but, with municipal elections, it's not really possible except in December.

However, I doubt very much than next Marois' budget will pass. So, spring.


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: DC Al Fine on August 14, 2013, 03:33:18 PM
I'm thinking 60-40 for the pull being plugged in the Spring. What do you guys think about Quebec?

Spring. Liberals wants an election this fall, but, with municipal elections, it's not really possible except in December.

However, I doubt very much than next Marois' budget will pass. So, spring.

Yay, it's been months since I had a good campaign to follow.


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: RogueBeaver on August 15, 2013, 09:42:00 AM
HELLO! Magazine does a soft-focus on MacKay. (http://ca.hellomagazine.com/health-and-beauty/mother-and-baby/0201308151309/peter-mackay-and-nazanin-afshin-jam-mackay-introduce-their-son-kian-in-hello-canada/)


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: DC Al Fine on August 15, 2013, 03:40:24 PM
NS Tories have a new ad running

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=qYHatTTD4o8 (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=qYHatTTD4o8)


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: RogueBeaver on August 16, 2013, 10:36:52 AM
FFS PQ. Price controls? In 2013?  (http://montreal.ctvnews.ca/quebec-government-may-regulate-the-price-of-books-1.1413787)


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: Marokai Backbeat on August 16, 2013, 10:46:49 AM
On books, of all things.


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: RogueBeaver on August 16, 2013, 11:16:54 AM
While I sympathize with the goal of saving small bookstores, having patronized a couple in my neighbourhood since childhood, reducing or hobbling competition (and I'm sure the chains' lawyers would find a loophole) doesn't help competitiveness. They're hardly the only interest groups to think this way.


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: RogueBeaver on August 16, 2013, 11:28:00 AM
PQ's looking for a squirrel because in the past year, 40k jobs have been lost and only 80 - not a typo- have been created.


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: DC Al Fine on August 16, 2013, 02:37:10 PM
FFS PQ. Price controls? In 2013?  (http://montreal.ctvnews.ca/quebec-government-may-regulate-the-price-of-books-1.1413787)

Well the separatists have never been known for their competence in economics.


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: MaxQue on August 16, 2013, 03:12:38 PM
FFS PQ. Price controls? In 2013?  (http://montreal.ctvnews.ca/quebec-government-may-regulate-the-price-of-books-1.1413787)

Well the separatists have never been known for their competence in economics.

It's not as if the Liberals were any better. As least PQ reached balanced budget.


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: You kip if you want to... on August 16, 2013, 03:26:50 PM
Did anyone really expect Marois to not be a train wreck?


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: MaxQue on August 16, 2013, 03:27:58 PM
Did anyone really expect Marois to not be a train wreck?

She is better than Charest.


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: DC Al Fine on August 16, 2013, 03:33:19 PM
FFS PQ. Price controls? In 2013?  (http://montreal.ctvnews.ca/quebec-government-may-regulate-the-price-of-books-1.1413787)

Well the separatists have never been known for their competence in economics.

It's not as if the Liberals were any better. As least PQ reached balanced budget.

Touche


Lol no, her anti-Anglo pandering is disgusting


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: MaxQue on August 16, 2013, 03:50:51 PM

Lol no, her anti-Anglo pandering is disgusting

Not a fan of it, but I prefer to look to actions, not rhetorics.

And, having lived in Montréal for three years, I understand why it works. Most immigrants are talking English, not French.


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: RogueBeaver on August 16, 2013, 07:09:57 PM
Harper may get called as a witness if Duffy goes to trial.  (http://news.nationalpost.com/2013/08/16/stephen-harper-will-be-called-as-a-witness-if-mike-duffy-expenses-allegations-reach-court-sources/?utm_source=dlvr.it&utm_medium=twitter) Honest question: do we have our own version of executive privilege? Unsurprisingly senators want to limit the investigation's scope to 2010-11 because they know earlier stuff would fall foul of the AG.


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: RogueBeaver on August 17, 2013, 03:01:04 PM
Unsurprisingly, McLachlin says the Senate judgment will take a while.  (http://www.ottawacitizen.com/touch/story.html?id=8802166)


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: MaxQue on August 17, 2013, 04:31:06 PM
Unsurprisingly, McLachlin says the Senate judgment will take a while.  (http://www.ottawacitizen.com/touch/story.html?id=8802166)

It's normal. Anyways, on Constitutionnal Affairs, I prefer than the court takes its time, given the far-reaching consequences of any decision.


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: You kip if you want to... on August 18, 2013, 05:09:56 PM
Does Canada not do opinion polling during the summer?


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: RogueBeaver on August 18, 2013, 05:41:56 PM
Does Canada not do opinion polling during the summer?

We do, but infrequently. The best pollsters will resume in the fall, if you get any now they'll be from less reputable firms. Plus given recent inaccuracy and that many people are away on vacation or not paying attention... a blessing IMO. Most likely a Grit-Tory tie or MOE race, same thing we saw earlier this summer.


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: RogueBeaver on August 18, 2013, 08:48:02 PM
The PM pulled no punches in his Yukon speech, basically a reprise of what he said at the Stampede. (http://news.nationalpost.com/2013/08/18/stephen-harper-uses-first-speech-of-northern-tour-to-lambaste-oppositions-dangerous-ideas-and-vacuous-thinking/?utm_source=dlvr.it&utm_medium=twitter)


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: Hatman 🍁 on August 18, 2013, 09:40:02 PM
Does Canada not do opinion polling during the summer?

They would be worthless.


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: MaxQue on August 18, 2013, 09:48:51 PM

And quite irresponsible, at this moment.


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: RogueBeaver on August 19, 2013, 12:39:29 PM
Harper confirmed that he will prorogue, Throne Speech will raise the curtain on a new session in October, and he's obviously running in 2015.


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: Peter the Lefty on August 19, 2013, 05:27:18 PM
Can't wait to see the credible polls resume.  Hoping that the Trudeau bubble will have burst fully.


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: RogueBeaver on August 19, 2013, 05:50:21 PM
What do you mean by "burst fully?" Back to third nationally? There is clear evidence that the NDP is clawing back a bit in Quebec, for starters.


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: Filuwaúrdjan on August 19, 2013, 06:01:10 PM
If there's one thing the last thirty years of Canadian politics have taught us, it's that there's really, really, really no point in bothering with polls in Canada until an election is actually called.


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: DC Al Fine on August 19, 2013, 06:57:37 PM
If there's one thing the last thirty years of Canadian politics have taught us, it's that there's really, really, really no point in bothering with polls in Canada until an election is actually called.

Sigged


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: Peter the Lefty on August 19, 2013, 08:50:12 PM
What do you mean by "burst fully?" Back to third nationally? There is clear evidence that the NDP is clawing back a bit in Quebec, for starters.
Yes, or at least 2nd.  But that's good to hear. 


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: RogueBeaver on August 19, 2013, 09:09:04 PM
Beyond useless polls, Harper will no longer answer questions in English and French. One or the other. (http://www.thestar.com/news/canada/2013/08/19/stephen_harper_makes_questions_more_difficult_in_both_languages.html) No reason given, but his French has been deteriorating even further recently.


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: RogueBeaver on August 19, 2013, 09:38:02 PM
Excellent defence of Hudak from Coyne. (http://www.ottawacitizen.com/touch/story.html?id=8808612&utm_source=twitterfeed&utm_medium=twitter)


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: RogueBeaver on August 20, 2013, 01:49:45 PM
Good: Quebec opposition parties will kill or at least force some serious concessions on the PQ's "secularism charter." Hopefully this thing is killed. (http://www.radio-canada.ca/nouvelles/Politique/2013/08/20/001-charte-valeurs-qc-bernard-drainville-signes-religieux.shtml)


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: RogueBeaver on August 20, 2013, 04:49:58 PM
The Trudeaus are expecting a third child next March.  (http://www.theglobeandmail.com/news/politics/justin-trudeau-and-wife-expecting-third-child/article13877975/?cmpid=rss1&utm_source=dlvr.it&utm_medium=twitter)


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: Linus Van Pelt on August 20, 2013, 06:45:18 PM
SERIOUS AND WEIGHTY ISSUE IN TORONTO

Quote
TTC workers say new uniform colours are too Habs-like: Proposed red, white and blue colour scheme on golf shirts and ball caps too closely resembles a rival team’s jerseys for the workers’ liking.

Toronto transit workers are irked over proposed new uniforms that would see operators decked out in the colours of the Montreal Canadiens.

http://www.thestar.com/news/gta/transportation/2013/08/20/ttc_workers_say_new_uniform_colours_are_too_habslike.html


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: Hatman 🍁 on August 20, 2013, 06:50:59 PM
lolololol


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: Marokai Backbeat on August 20, 2013, 06:55:49 PM
Good: Quebec opposition parties will kill or at least force some serious concessions on the PQ's "secularism charter." Hopefully this thing is killed. (http://www.radio-canada.ca/nouvelles/Politique/2013/08/20/001-charte-valeurs-qc-bernard-drainville-signes-religieux.shtml)

Random question for the uninformed and non-french: What exactly does this so-called "secularism charter" actually do, and why?


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: MaxQue on August 20, 2013, 07:08:03 PM
Good: Quebec opposition parties will kill or at least force some serious concessions on the PQ's "secularism charter." Hopefully this thing is killed. (http://www.radio-canada.ca/nouvelles/Politique/2013/08/20/001-charte-valeurs-qc-bernard-drainville-signes-religieux.shtml)

Random question for the uninformed and non-french: What exactly does this so-called "secularism charter" actually do, and why?

Ban public servants of wearing any visible religious symbol, in the PQ proposal.


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: RogueBeaver on August 20, 2013, 07:15:44 PM
Among other things, outlaw all religious symbols in public institutions, except crosses of a certain size. Politically speaking just a huge squirrel to distract from more pressing issues like the economy. The CAQ will be negotiating with the government since they hold the balance of power, most likely you get a diluted version.

One interesting tidbit: QS notes that despite the ostensible goal of gender equality, a lot of women would be impacted.


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: RogueBeaver on August 21, 2013, 08:23:09 PM
New provincial CROP out: PLQ 40, PQ 29, CAQ 20, QS 7. 35-28-24 PQ for the Franco vote, Grits lead everywhere except Quebec City.  (http://www.lapresse.ca/actualites/politique/politique-quebecoise/201308/20/01-4681672-sondage-couillard-en-avance-marois-remonte.php) Yet according to 308 they barely scrape a majority, 63-48-14. Both Marois' and the government's approval ratings are moving up, though still deeply underwater.

Federally, the Grit Shadow Cabinet has been reshuffled. (http://www.liberal.ca/mp/)


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: MaxQue on August 21, 2013, 11:19:56 PM
Federal part of that poll is saying:

Liberals 41, NDP 28, Bloc 17, Conservative 14.
French vote is: Liberals 33, NDP 31, Bloc 20.


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: RogueBeaver on August 22, 2013, 09:39:29 AM
 In non-news, both Mulcair and Trudeau have weedy records, Trudeau more recently. (http://www.huffingtonpost.ca/2013/08/22/justin-trudeau-marijuana-mp_n_3792208.html) Far juicier parts of the oppo files to mine than this, IMO.


Max: That Tory improvement in Quebec City might be worth a couple of extra seats, theoretically, right? As for the rest... narrow Grit seat lead given how ridiculously inefficient their vote is.


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: MaxQue on August 22, 2013, 03:54:13 PM
In non-news, both Mulcair and Trudeau have weedy records, Trudeau more recently. (http://www.huffingtonpost.ca/2013/08/22/justin-trudeau-marijuana-mp_n_3792208.html) Far juicier parts of the oppo files to mine than this, IMO.


Max: That Tory improvement in Quebec City might be worth a couple of extra seats, theoretically, right? As for the rest... narrow Grit seat lead given how ridiculously inefficient their vote is.

Indeed on weed. The kind of people which would never vote for someone who already took weed is already voting Conservative, anyways. And I'm not sure than which side has a majority support.

As for Tory seats in Quebec, they did 16.5% at last election, so that is still a decline compared to 2011. A comparision is complicated, through, given redistricting.


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: Hatman 🍁 on August 22, 2013, 03:59:45 PM
This is going to help Trudeau in Quebec. Remember what happened when revelations came out that Andre Boiscair was using cocaine while in office? His poll numbers skyrocketed!


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: MaxQue on August 22, 2013, 04:04:43 PM
This is going to help Trudeau in Quebec. Remember what happened when revelations came out that Andre Boiscair was using cocaine while in office? His poll numbers skyrocketed!

And crashed badly afterwards.


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: Smid on August 22, 2013, 05:00:20 PM
Any chance of recruiting Rob Ford to run in Montreal?


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: MaxQue on August 22, 2013, 05:37:46 PM
Any chance of recruiting Rob Ford to run in Montreal?

???


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: DC Al Fine on August 22, 2013, 06:06:22 PM

Hatman said that Trudeau's drug use would help him in Quebec.... Rob Ford uses drugs ergo he would be a good Quebec Tory ;)


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: Smid on August 22, 2013, 09:16:45 PM
Yeah, sorry, I had nothing serious to contribute, so I tried making a joke. Seems it bombed.


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: Hatman 🍁 on August 22, 2013, 09:33:24 PM
Rob Ford would be unelectable in Quebec for a vast array of other reasons. Not the least of which would be being from Toronto. (although admittedly that didn't hurt Jack Layton) :/


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: MaxQue on August 22, 2013, 09:51:51 PM
Rob Ford would be unelectable in Quebec for a vast array of other reasons. Not the least of which would be being from Toronto. (although admittedly that didn't hurt Jack Layton) :/

Lack of French and being an hard-right buffoon doesn't help, either.


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: RogueBeaver on August 23, 2013, 10:21:26 PM
Harcourt joins the chorus of Dippers calling for Dix's resignation.  (http://www.theglobeandmail.com/news/british-columbia/harcourt-joins-growing-chorus-urging-dix-to-go/article13942502/?cmpid=rss1&utm_source=dlvr.it&utm_medium=twitter) Any ideas as to who'll replace him?


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: MaxQue on August 26, 2013, 04:26:04 AM
Quebec political fundraising numbers are out. Low Liberals numbers are caused by the leadership race.

http://www.lapresse.ca/actualites/politique/politique-quebecoise/201308/25/01-4683060-financement-estival-le-pq-a-fait-la-meilleure-recolte.php (http://www.lapresse.ca/actualites/politique/politique-quebecoise/201308/25/01-4683060-financement-estival-le-pq-a-fait-la-meilleure-recolte.php)

PartySince Mid-JuneSince January 1st
PQ191,558$636,969$
Liberals155,558$229,527$
QS41,894$129,743$
CAQ31,955$95,105$

CAQ numbers are an absolute disaster.


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: RogueBeaver on August 26, 2013, 09:19:46 AM
Bachand will announce his retirement from politics today. No surprise since it was leadership or bust for him. Meanwhile Couillard is planning to raise the QST, which is already the country's highest provincial sales tax at 9.75%. Making the PLQ attempt to out-left the PQ even more laughable. Cause God forbid they cut spending instead of raising taxes.


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: MaxQue on August 26, 2013, 09:43:05 AM
Bachand will announce his retirement from politics today. No surprise since it was leadership or bust for him. Meanwhile Couillard is planning to raise the QST, which is already the country's highest provincial sales tax at 9.75%. Making the PLQ attempt to out-left the PQ even more laughable. Cause God forbid they cut spending instead of raising taxes.

To be fair, he wants to raise the QST to lower income tax. Obviously, that's an right-wing idea since that will lead the lower and middle classes to pay more tax, while the wealthy will pay less, since QST, like all sales tax, is a flat tax.


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: RogueBeaver on August 26, 2013, 09:46:09 AM
Given the hole Harper's GST cut blew in federal coffers, you'd think the PLQ would be a little more wary. But these are the same guys who quoted Gandhi in support of tax increases, so meh.


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: MaxQue on August 26, 2013, 10:04:32 AM
Given the hole Harper's GST cut blew in federal coffers, you'd think the PLQ would be a little more wary. But these are the same guys who quoted Gandhi in support of tax increases, so meh.


Well, don't worry, it's Quebec. PQ and Liberals are both left-wing in opposition and right-wing in government.


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: DC Al Fine on August 26, 2013, 01:54:06 PM
Bachand will announce his retirement from politics today. No surprise since it was leadership or bust for him. Meanwhile Couillard is planning to raise the QST, which is already the country's highest provincial sales tax at 9.75%. Making the PLQ attempt to out-left the PQ even more laughable. Cause God forbid they cut spending instead of raising taxes.

To be fair, he wants to raise the QST to lower income tax. Obviously, that's an right-wing idea since that will lead the lower and middle classes to pay more tax, while the wealthy will pay less, since QST, like all sales tax, is a flat regressive tax.

FTFY?


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: RogueBeaver on August 26, 2013, 03:19:05 PM
Mac Harb has resigned from the Senate and repaid the $231k. Good riddance. (http://www.thestar.com/news/canada/2013/08/26/senate_scandal_mac_harb_resigns.html) Court will hear the Senate case in November, and Harper won't appoint any new senators till more progress is made on his Senate bill.


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: RogueBeaver on August 26, 2013, 09:55:30 PM
Wright coordinated with Stewart-Olsen and Tkachuk on the Duffy deal. (http://www.ctvnews.ca/politics/wright-worked-with-2-conservative-senators-to-reach-duffy-deal-emails-show-1.1428083)


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: RogueBeaver on August 28, 2013, 09:45:07 AM
Legault would support a "values" bill which was restricted to authority figures, including public school employees. (http://www.lapresse.ca/actualites/politique/politique-quebecoise/201308/28/01-4683928-valeurs-quebecoises-drainville-tend-la-main-a-la-caq.php)

Federally, Trudeau has hired Stephen Bronfman as his chief fundraiser.


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: Hatman 🍁 on August 28, 2013, 02:30:24 PM
Looks like everyone and their mother is admitting pot use. I guess they saw how much it helped Trudeau in the polls.


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: RogueBeaver on August 29, 2013, 09:28:48 AM
Trudeau is wooing Gregor Robertson to run in 2015, but Robertson isn't interested. (http://www.theprovince.com/news/Trudeau+pitches+federal+move+Gregor+Robertson+Vancouver+good+seek+another+term+City+Hall/8845103/story.html)


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: Hatman 🍁 on August 29, 2013, 04:04:17 PM
Good. Hate to see a New Democrat jump ship.

Speaking of jumping ships, former Tory Tom Osborne has joined the Liberals in Nfld. Making that allusive official opposition status there for the NDP harder to get.


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: DC Al Fine on August 29, 2013, 05:11:17 PM
Question for the dippers out there? How come the CCF/NDP never found the success that their labourist counterparts elsewhere did until 2011? Was the Canadian electorate too right wing, the CCF/NDP too left wing or were the Liberals more competent than their UK counterparts?


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: Hatman 🍁 on August 29, 2013, 05:12:29 PM
Yes on all three.


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: RogueBeaver on August 29, 2013, 11:22:01 PM
Harris-Decima poll out on federal leadership. Harper leads 43/21/15  on experience. 39/20/19, in the same order, on economic management. 28-24-17 for best judgment. 32/21/19  on "cares about people like me", 33/24/17  on "shares my values", 33/29/14 on PPM.


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: Smid on August 29, 2013, 11:41:27 PM
Lol at all the people who are all "Harper has the most experience, is the best economic manager and exercises the best judgement, but I want Trudeau to be Prime Minister. He's, like, OMG, so cool and stuff."


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: RogueBeaver on August 30, 2013, 08:03:47 AM
More Senate news: Ontario will argue before the Court that unanimity, not 7/50, is required for abolition.  (http://o.canada.com/2013/08/29/ontario-to-challenge-conservative-government-on-senate-reform/) Quebec supports a transcontinental pipeline. (http://www.news957.com/2013/08/30/quebec-supports-west-to-east-oil-pipeline/)


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: RogueBeaver on August 30, 2013, 01:46:25 PM
Harper has tapped a new PBO. (http://news.nationalpost.com/2013/08/30/harper-taps-jean-denis-frechette-to-replace-kevin-page-as-parliamentary-budget-officer/?utm_source=dlvr.it&utm_medium=twitter)


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: RogueBeaver on August 30, 2013, 11:40:27 PM
Am I the only who thinks those speculating about a Tory-Grit contest in 2015 are wildly premature? (http://fullcomment.nationalpost.com/2013/08/31/rex-murphy-ottawas-political-drama-in-three-words-harper-versus-trudeau/?utm_source=dlvr.it&utm_medium=twitter) Mulcair has 2 years to carve out his own narrative.


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: Smid on August 31, 2013, 07:38:20 AM
And much can happen in two years, beyond Mulcair's control. Currently, the Liberals are bouyed by Trudeau's popularity, but that shine may well come off, and there is very little depth beyond the image. A by-election in a Liberal seat, especially one that will be hard to retain (a Goodale retirement, for example) and the media will spin it as the honeymoon being over, and if non-conservative voters get a feel that the NDP has the better chance at forming government, or at least knocking off Harper, the polls will move quickly and there will be the stampede for the exits. That sort of a thing could happen without Mulcair setting the agenda.


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: RogueBeaver on August 31, 2013, 08:47:05 AM
Alberta has joined Saskatchewan and the feds in their 7/50 claim. (http://news.nationalpost.com/2013/08/30/harper-finds-two-key-allies-in-bid-to-abolish-senate-as-alberta-saskatchewan-side-with-ottawa/) Even the Star wants Trudeau to release economic policy. (http://www.thestar.com/opinion/editorials/2013/08/31/justin_trudeau_should_flesh_out_his_economic_vision_editorial.html)


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: DC Al Fine on August 31, 2013, 09:35:24 AM
And much can happen in two years, beyond Mulcair's control. Currently, the Liberals are bouyed by Trudeau's popularity, but that shine may well come off, and there is very little depth beyond the image. A by-election in a Liberal seat, especially one that will be hard to retain (a Goodale retirement, for example) and the media will spin it as the honeymoon being over, and if non-conservative voters get a feel that the NDP has the better chance at forming government, or at least knocking off Harper, the polls will move quickly and there will be the stampede for the exits. That sort of a thing could happen without Mulcair setting the agenda.

Agreed. This would also have the benefit of forcing blue liberals to acknowledge that the NDP might form government which might give the Tories a small boost.


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: RogueBeaver on August 31, 2013, 11:04:11 AM
New QC Leger provincial poll out (also has QC federal, but can't find that part): PLQ 36, PQ 32, CAQ 18, QS 6.  (http://www.ledevoir.com/documents/pdf/sondage_politique_aout2013.pdf) PQ leads 40-25 among Francophones province-wide. PQ trusted on most issues except economy (PLQ) and wealth redistribution (QS). Dunno how those numbers translate, but could well be another PQ minority. Which is my early prediction for next spring's election.


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: Holmes on August 31, 2013, 11:36:39 AM
Even the Star wants Trudeau to release economic policy. (http://www.thestar.com/opinion/editorials/2013/08/31/justin_trudeau_should_flesh_out_his_economic_vision_editorial.html)

Who cares? He smoked pot. He understands average Canadians such as myself.


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: RogueBeaver on August 31, 2013, 11:43:41 AM
Even the Star wants Trudeau to release economic policy. (http://www.thestar.com/opinion/editorials/2013/08/31/justin_trudeau_should_flesh_out_his_economic_vision_editorial.html)

Who cares? He smoked pot. He understands average Canadians such as myself.

I'm keeping that for my next sig. :P


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: Hatman 🍁 on August 31, 2013, 01:45:00 PM
I met up with Michael Sona (aka "Pierre Poutine") last night at a mutual friend's birthday party. He thinks his chances are pretty good in winning the case. Says he barely knows the "witnesses" who claim he did it.


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: DC Al Fine on August 31, 2013, 09:14:02 PM
I met up with Michael Sona (aka "Pierre Poutine") last night at a mutual friend's birthday party. He thinks his chances are pretty good in winning the case. Says he barely knows the "witnesses" who claim he did it.

You have an interesting circle of friends Earl.


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: RogueBeaver on September 02, 2013, 09:13:03 AM
Geez media, Poilievre only hinted as much last month about Senate being a political repositioning.  (http://www.hilltimes.com/news/news/2013/09/02/harper-to-turn-senate-reforms-into-wedge-issue/35789?page_requested=1)

Question: should we start the new thread with the Throne Speech or wait till we hit ~1000 posts? Hopefully those rumours of May 2015 are true so we don't have to create a third. :P


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: Smid on September 02, 2013, 08:47:07 PM
I vaguely recall Dave saying that he prefers fewer threads with more posts, because the site runs faster that way? I think Inks then merged some threads in FC.


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: RogueBeaver on September 03, 2013, 09:02:32 AM
Here's the federal part of that Leger poll: PLC 35, NPD 31, BQ 23, PCC 9.  Ahead in Montreal but tied everywhere else with the Dippers. (http://www.ledevoir.com/politique/canada/386524/marijuana-le-quebec-appuie-trudeau)


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: Hatman 🍁 on September 03, 2013, 01:37:28 PM
lol @ Tories.


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: RogueBeaver on September 03, 2013, 02:04:34 PM
All our QC incumbents win on personal votes anyways, though it'd be nice to regain some seats in Quebec City. Otherwise a Dipper-Grit battle. Far removed from the heady days of pre-gala '08, if in retrospect that was probably unsustainable.


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: Hatman 🍁 on September 03, 2013, 02:11:15 PM
It would be a weird map. I guess the Liberals are ahead in their traditional areas, (along the US border, Western Quebec), while the NDP is strong in the heartland, some sovereigntist areas.


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: RogueBeaver on September 03, 2013, 02:18:15 PM
One thing's for sure: Quebec will be crucial to Liberal hopes for Stornoway in 2015.


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: Hatman 🍁 on September 03, 2013, 02:29:24 PM
One thing's for sure: Quebec will be crucial to Liberal hopes for Stornoway in 2015.

Oh come on, not even I'm that hackish.


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: RogueBeaver on September 03, 2013, 02:50:54 PM
Same statement applies to Sussex too for that matter, since Ontario alone won't cut it for them. On another note, Marois again ruled out a fall election at a U de M appearance this afternoon. Still sticking to my prediction of another PQ minority.


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: You kip if you want to... on September 03, 2013, 04:59:42 PM
Here's the federal part of that Leger poll: PLC 35, NPD 31, BQ 23, PCC 9.  Ahead in Montreal but tied everywhere else with the Dippers. (http://www.ledevoir.com/politique/canada/386524/marijuana-le-quebec-appuie-trudeau)

Quote
« Est-ce que j’ai l’air de quelqu’un qui fume de la marijuana ? »

Made me giggle.


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: MaxQue on September 03, 2013, 08:53:18 PM
All our QC incumbents win on personal votes anyways, though it'd be nice to regain some seats in Quebec City. Otherwise a Dipper-Grit battle. Far removed from the heady days of pre-gala '08, if in retrospect that was probably unsustainable.

Wouldn't Mégantic-L'Érable be in danger?


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: RogueBeaver on September 03, 2013, 09:05:35 PM
All our QC incumbents win on personal votes anyways, though it'd be nice to regain some seats in Quebec City. Otherwise a Dipper-Grit battle. Far removed from the heady days of pre-gala '08, if in retrospect that was probably unsustainable.

Wouldn't Mégantic-L'Érable be in danger?

Maybe, but not like Paradis would be much of a loss anyways.

On a different note, is anyone surprised that the new PBO is reportedly tame? (http://fullcomment.nationalpost.com/2013/09/03/john-ivison-unlike-kevin-page-the-new-pbo-may-be-less-interested-in-where-the-bodies-are-buried/)


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: DC Al Fine on September 03, 2013, 09:23:32 PM
All our QC incumbents win on personal votes anyways, though it'd be nice to regain some seats in Quebec City. Otherwise a Dipper-Grit battle. Far removed from the heady days of pre-gala '08, if in retrospect that was probably unsustainable.

Wouldn't Mégantic-L'Érable be in danger?

Paradis won his seat by 23% and the Liberals only managed 5%. The swings will work in his favour. Of course, if there's a disproportionate swing against the Tories due to Lac Megantic or the boundaries are changed, anything is possible.



Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: RogueBeaver on September 03, 2013, 09:47:54 PM
More Senate stuff. (http://www.cbc.ca/news/politics/story/2013/09/03/pol-senate-rcmp-investigation-summer-interviews.html)


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: RogueBeaver on September 04, 2013, 09:51:10 AM
308 crunches the Leger provincial numbers as 61 PQ, 57 PLQ, 5 CAQ (LOL) and 2 QS. I for one would be happy for a return to essentially 2-party politics.


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: Hatman 🍁 on September 04, 2013, 10:40:41 AM
308 crunches the Leger provincial numbers as 61 PQ, 57 PLQ, 5 CAQ (LOL) and 2 QS. I for one would be happy for a return to essentially 2-party politics.

Says someone who wouldn't vote for any of them :P

Unless you support the PLQ now? I for one have put my tactical support behind the PLQ over the PQ now that Charest is gone and Marois has turned out to be a huge racist.

My ranked support of Quebec parties is now:

1) UCQ
2) PVQ
3) QS
4) CAQ
5) PLQ
6) ON
7) PQ

Any type of movement below the #3 spot is highly possible.


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: DC Al Fine on September 04, 2013, 10:55:58 AM
308 crunches the Leger provincial numbers as 61 PQ, 57 PLQ, 5 CAQ (LOL) and 2 QS. I for one would be happy for a return to essentially 2-party politics.
CAQ is cursed with a similar vote distribution to the bloc Quebecois.


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: minionofmidas on September 04, 2013, 11:34:21 AM
I vaguely recall Dave saying that he prefers fewer threads with more posts, because the site runs faster that way? I think Inks then merged some threads in FC.
No, he said he preferred threads not to cross a certain size, so Inks closed some threads in FC and created successor threads.


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: RogueBeaver on September 04, 2013, 02:56:50 PM
One Quebec teachers' union would prefer defunding parochial schools.  (http://news.nationalpost.com/2013/09/04/if-quebec-really-wants-to-secularize-education-it-should-stop-funding-religious-schools-union-says/?utm_source=dlvr.it&utm_medium=twitter)


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: DC Al Fine on September 04, 2013, 03:11:01 PM
One Quebec teachers' union would prefer defunding parochial schools.  (http://news.nationalpost.com/2013/09/04/if-quebec-really-wants-to-secularize-education-it-should-stop-funding-religious-schools-union-says/?utm_source=dlvr.it&utm_medium=twitter)

The phrase "parochial schools" implies that this funding is a bit more extensive than funding Catholic schools like in Ontario. Is that true?


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: Hatman 🍁 on September 04, 2013, 03:28:58 PM
Meanwhile, in more lol-worthy polls:

Liberals: 42
NDP: 32
PC: 23

Guess what province?

PEI!: http://www.cbc.ca/news/canada/prince-edward-island/story/2013/09/04/pei-cra-poll-ndp-liberals-584.html

Federally? NOPE! Provincially!


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: RogueBeaver on September 04, 2013, 03:41:54 PM
Nah, it applies to all private and independent schools. They get 40% of the per-capita grant given to public schools. (http://www.ourkids.net/quebec-private-schools.php) Here's the criteria if you want a look. (http://www.mels.gouv.qc.ca/dgfe/Financement/PDF/Funding2009_2010.pdf)

Hatman: Joining NL. Wonder what's driving the Dipper surge out East.

Forgot to post this way back, but Fraser school rankings were released this summer (http://quebec.compareschoolrankings.org/secondary/SchoolsByRankLocationName.aspx). Unsurprisingly, here in Quebec Brébeuf leads the pack as usual. 8)


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: DC Al Fine on September 04, 2013, 03:47:30 PM
\
Nah, it applies to all private and independent schools. They get 40% of the per-capita grant given to public schools. (http://www.ourkids.net/quebec-private-schools.php) Here's the criteria if you want a look. (http://www.mels.gouv.qc.ca/dgfe/Financement/PDF/Funding2009_2010.pdf)

Hatman: Joining NL. Wonder what's driving the Dipper surge out East.

Forgot to post this way back, but Fraser school rankings were released this summer (http://quebec.compareschoolrankings.org/secondary/SchoolsByRankLocationName.aspx). Unsurprisingly, here in Quebec Brébeuf leads the pack as usual.

No idea, especially with Trudeau's popularity out here. People aren't exactly salivating over Dexter either. It's puzzling.


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: RogueBeaver on September 04, 2013, 05:15:01 PM
Here's a very long PKP profile, courtesy of Maclean's.  (http://www2.macleans.ca/2013/09/04/the-king-of-quebec/)

New Nanos out: 36 Liberal, 30 Tory, 25 Dipper. Economy is tops at 35% with corruption/Senate second at 17% and healthcare at 12%.


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: DC Al Fine on September 04, 2013, 05:57:39 PM
Saint Mary's University frosh chant cheers underage sex (http://www.cbc.ca/news/canada/nova-scotia/story/2013/09/04/ns-smu-chant-underage-sex.html)

God my school is douchey. This only confirms disdain for frosh, frats etc.



Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: RogueBeaver on September 05, 2013, 09:09:03 AM
May apparently intends to lead the Greens till she's 80. LOL. (http://www.ipolitics.ca/2013/09/04/green-dreaming-the-optimism-of-elizabeth-may/)

More from Nanos: Trudeau is considered the least competent leader.  (http://www.theglobeandmail.com/news/politics/trudeau-seen-as-trustworthy-but-not-competent-poll-finds/article14117537/)

Gagnon on how even France isn't purely laïque. (http://www.lapresse.ca/debats/chroniques/lysiane-gagnon/201309/04/01-4686119-la-fille-ainee-de-leglise.php)

Different types of laïcité. As Hébert hints in today's column, this is really aimed at the ROQ conservatives. PLQ and CAQ are more in the open category. (http://www.lactualite.com/opinions/le-blogue-de-jerome-lussier/typologie-dune-crise-quel-type-de-laic-etes-vous/)


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: Hatman 🍁 on September 05, 2013, 09:55:37 AM
Don't the Greens have leadership elections every 2 years? Or did E-May drop those?


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: Hatman 🍁 on September 05, 2013, 10:27:55 AM
As I expected, CRA did polls of all the Atlantic provinces.  And they're all pretty lol worthy. Except NS :(

NB:

Lib: 47
NDP: 24
PC: 23

NL:
Lib: 41
NDP: 33
PC: 26

Strange how Trudeaumania is helping the provincial Liberals. And yet, the NDP remains strong. Where are the Tory voters going?


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: DC Al Fine on September 05, 2013, 02:01:16 PM
As I expected, CRA did polls of all the Atlantic provinces.  And they're all pretty lol worthy. Except NS :(

NB:

Lib: 47
NDP: 24
PC: 23

NL:
Lib: 41
NDP: 33
PC: 26

Strange how Trudeaumania is helping the provincial Liberals. And yet, the NDP remains strong. Where are the Tory voters going?

Liberals. It's almost all Red Tories out here.


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: Hatman 🍁 on September 05, 2013, 03:01:28 PM
NL?

More like orange Tories, at least in Avalon.


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: Smid on September 05, 2013, 05:00:59 PM
Perhaps they see the BC Liberals as something to emulate?


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: Hatman 🍁 on September 05, 2013, 05:48:40 PM
Would be nice if all provinces became NDP-Tory or NDP-Liberal 2 party provinces. Don't hold out on us Alberta and Ontario!


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: DC Al Fine on September 05, 2013, 05:54:02 PM
Would be nice if all provinces became NDP-Tory or NDP-Liberal 2 party provinces. Don't hold out on us Alberta and Ontario!

Aren't you a huge PR guy?


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: RogueBeaver on September 05, 2013, 06:41:11 PM
308 projects a narrow Liberal minority from CRA. Hilariously inefficient vote seems to be a Liberal hallmark, except (GAH) provincially in Ontario.


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: Hash on September 05, 2013, 06:41:57 PM
Don't the Greens have leadership elections every 2 years? Or did E-May drop those?

Well the crazy lady has basically turned the party into some personalist party/personality cult.


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: Hatman 🍁 on September 05, 2013, 08:11:17 PM
Would be nice if all provinces became NDP-Tory or NDP-Liberal 2 party provinces. Don't hold out on us Alberta and Ontario!

Aren't you a huge PR guy?

You can still have PR in 2 party races ;)


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: RogueBeaver on September 06, 2013, 06:54:51 AM
Bwahaha: Mulcair compares Trudeau to Campbell. "That's the Kim Campbell approach, right? You know, this is far too serious to talk about in advance." (http://www.citynews.ca/2013/09/06/mulcair-takes-aim-at-trudeau-as-ndp-fights-to-reverse-slump-in-polls/) ;D Also says the NDP will be releasing policy in the prewrit period, campaign focus on GCPA, equity, credit card fees, etc.

Agreed w/Wells as usual. (http://www2.macleans.ca/2013/09/06/why-harpers-foes-need-to-get-off-the-pot/)


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: RogueBeaver on September 06, 2013, 09:54:12 AM
The Albertan Progs, keeping it classy. (http://www.calgaryherald.com/news/Tory+Wildrose+feud+over+High+River+firearms+seizure+gets+personal/8874155/story.html)


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: Hatman 🍁 on September 06, 2013, 09:57:28 AM
A plurality of Canadians (46-42) support intervention in Syria: http://htl.li/oC58P

Including a plurality of young people (49-40). Interestingly Quebec is most in support (52-37) while Alberta is most against (37-49).

Also interestingly, support among NDPers is the highest among the three parties (47-35); Tories disagree the most (45-48).


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: DC Al Fine on September 06, 2013, 10:33:15 AM
A plurality of Canadians (46-42) support intervention in Syria: http://htl.li/oC58P

Including a plurality of young people (49-40). Interestingly Quebec is most in support (52-37) while Alberta is most against (37-49).

Also interestingly, support among NDPers is the highest among the three parties (47-35); Tories disagree the most (45-48).

Intervening in Syria seems more "progressive" for lack of a better term than previous wars.


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: RogueBeaver on September 06, 2013, 10:40:56 AM
Peter Shurman has housing allowance problems.  (http://fullcomment.nationalpost.com/2013/09/06/matt-gurney-if-expense-happy-peter-shurman-wont-quit-he-should-be-fired/?utm_source=dlvr.it&utm_medium=twitter) He should a) repay b) *quit* the Shadow Cabinet. Can't have a prospective finance minister pulling shinks like this. Meanwhile Glen Murray is a talking IED. (http://www.theglobeandmail.com/news/politics/maverick-glen-murray-threatens-to-send-liberals-transit-vision-off-the-rails/article14153876/?cmpid=rss1&utm_source=dlvr.it&utm_medium=twitter)


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: Marokai Backbeat on September 06, 2013, 10:42:50 AM
A plurality of Canadians (46-42) support intervention in Syria: http://htl.li/oC58P

Including a plurality of young people (49-40). Interestingly Quebec is most in support (52-37) while Alberta is most against (37-49).

Also interestingly, support among NDPers is the highest among the three parties (47-35); Tories disagree the most (45-48).

Whether it's here on Atlas, in America, the UK, and France, or anywhere else, I always get a kick out of how bizarre the lines of support and opposition are re: intervention in Syria.


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: Linus Van Pelt on September 06, 2013, 10:52:27 AM
This poll appears to only use the vague phrase "the international community should intervene in the Syrian conflict", with no mention of anything military. So people who just believe that the UN should be holding negotiations or something like that could easily be answering "yes".


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: Hatman 🍁 on September 06, 2013, 01:43:24 PM
A plurality of Canadians (46-42) support intervention in Syria: http://htl.li/oC58P

Including a plurality of young people (49-40). Interestingly Quebec is most in support (52-37) while Alberta is most against (37-49).

Also interestingly, support among NDPers is the highest among the three parties (47-35); Tories disagree the most (45-48).

Whether it's here on Atlas, in America, the UK, and France, or anywhere else, I always get a kick out of how bizarre the lines of support and opposition are re: intervention in Syria.

Yup. It seems to cut a different way than traditional left vs. right divides. It's more on the lines of internationalist vs. isolationist.  Do we intervene because Syrians need our help, or do we stay put because we should focus on our own problems? (trying to put that as neutral as possible)


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: DC Al Fine on September 06, 2013, 02:30:27 PM
This poll appears to only use the vague phrase "the international community should intervene in the Syrian conflict", with no mention of anything military. So people who just believe that the UN should be holding negotiations or something like that could easily be answering "yes".

There's a later question about whether Canada itself to intervene. It's roughly 55-45 against.


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: RogueBeaver on September 06, 2013, 03:12:40 PM
Marois interview with Le Devoir made all sorts of headlines, because she said that British multiculturalism caused people to beat each other up and set bombs. (http://www.ledevoir.com/politique/quebec/386822/pauline-marois-au-devoir-l-etapisme-pour-la-charte-des-valeurs) No, not a typo. Of course Couillard is demanding a retraction.  (http://www.winnipegfreepress.com/canada/quebec-liberal-leader-to-marois-apologize-for-comments-about-england--222720811.html)

« En Angleterre, ils se tapent sur la gueule et s’envoient des bombes parce que c’est le multiculturalisme et qu’il n’y a plus personne qui se retrouve dans cette société-là. »


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: RogueBeaver on September 07, 2013, 05:06:55 PM
Unsurprisingly, Marois had to walk that back. (http://www.theglobeandmail.com/news/national/marois-says-she-didnt-mean-to-offend-with-england-comments/article14177440/?cmpid=rss1&utm_source=dlvr.it&utm_medium=twitter)


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: You kip if you want to... on September 07, 2013, 06:12:10 PM
If a British politician says stupidness like that, they're normally of the far-right variety.


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: RogueBeaver on September 07, 2013, 06:25:46 PM
More stupid comments, this one from LPC Alberta's president to a local Tory MP on Twitter: "Are you doing anything for constituents not suffering from the effects of autism?" Naturally people from all parties are condemning said vile statement. No response from Trudeau yet either.


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: MaxQue on September 07, 2013, 11:12:59 PM
Not suprisingly, nobody talked of the Nova Scotia PC leader, which said than if NDP is reelected, Nova Scotia is the next Detroit or Greece.


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: Kitteh on September 08, 2013, 05:07:33 PM
This poll appears to only use the vague phrase "the international community should intervene in the Syrian conflict", with no mention of anything military. So people who just believe that the UN should be holding negotiations or something like that could easily be answering "yes".

There's a later question about whether Canada itself to intervene. It's roughly 55-45 against.

So people want other countries to do something but don't want to do something themselves. Makes perfect sense.


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: RogueBeaver on September 08, 2013, 06:33:27 PM
Hudak has removed Shurman as finance critic. (http://www.newstalk1010.com/News/localnews/blogentry.aspx?BlogEntryID=10586015) Good. Can't have a finance critic who was caught red-handed with his hand in the cookie jar. No word yet on a replacement.


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: MaxQue on September 08, 2013, 07:13:42 PM
This poll appears to only use the vague phrase "the international community should intervene in the Syrian conflict", with no mention of anything military. So people who just believe that the UN should be holding negotiations or something like that could easily be answering "yes".

There's a later question about whether Canada itself to intervene. It's roughly 55-45 against.

So people want other countries to do something but don't want to do something themselves. Makes perfect sense.

Well, it's the government position. Strongly support an intervention, but not taking part in one, because we don't have anything useful for the kind of intervention which is proposed.


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: RogueBeaver on September 09, 2013, 12:04:25 PM
Wynne is giving a presser right now. Says she'll consult Hudak and Horwath about the fall session, but onus is on them to work with the government and why "if the house cannot function, opposition needs to explain why we need a general election." "You can frame what I said as threatening", but emphasizes she wants to work with them. I'm getting flashbacks to similar meetings Harper held 5 years ago this month... but as always the trigger finger is Horwath's. With an outside shot at Wynne's. 


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: RogueBeaver on September 09, 2013, 01:28:50 PM
Here's a link for Wynne's comments. (http://www.theglobeandmail.com/news/politics/ontarios-wynne-threatens-to-call-election-if-opposition-doesnt-co-operate/article14191515/?cmpid=rss1&utm_source=dlvr.it&utm_medium=twitter)


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: RogueBeaver on September 09, 2013, 02:22:09 PM
Was wondering when we'd see this: Catherine Pinhas gives her first interview. (http://www.huffingtonpost.ca/2013/09/09/thomas-mulcair-catherine-pinhas-wife-dinner_n_3893780.html?1378752799) Doubt we'll see many more given that we know she's a private person, but part of a soft-focus strategy I'm guessing. Certainly the lowest-profile of the leaders' spouses.


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: HagridOfTheDeep on September 09, 2013, 02:49:37 PM
Was wondering when we'd see this: Catherine Pinhas gives her first interview. (http://www.huffingtonpost.ca/2013/09/09/thomas-mulcair-catherine-pinhas-wife-dinner_n_3893780.html?1378752799) Doubt we'll see many more given that we know she's a private person, but part of a soft-focus strategy I'm guessing. Certainly the lowest-profile of the leaders' spouses.

Lol @ the paragraph describing her complicated dinner order. :P


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: Hatman 🍁 on September 09, 2013, 07:26:13 PM
Naheed Nenshi and Ezra Levant have been going at it all day on Twitter. Apparently they go "way back" as former debate team foes in university.


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: Hash on September 09, 2013, 08:08:20 PM
Massive respect for Nenshi for taking on that scumbag waste of oxygen Ezra Levant.


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: Hatman 🍁 on September 09, 2013, 08:32:07 PM
Ordinarily risky to do during an election campaign, but no one serious is running against him.


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: RogueBeaver on September 10, 2013, 12:39:19 PM
Charter is out (http://www.lapresse.ca/actualites/politique/politique-quebecoise/201309/10/01-4687800-quebec-veut-interdire-le-port-de-signes-religieux-a-ses-employes.php), and the feds are thinking about challenging it in court. (http://www.lapresse.ca/actualites/politique/politique-canadienne/201309/10/01-4687911-ottawa-pourrait-contester-la-charte-des-valeurs-devant-les-tribunaux.php)

()


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: DC Al Fine on September 10, 2013, 03:01:09 PM
Newfoundland is polling like Nova Scotia now.

()

Granted the sample size is really small, but still.


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: RogueBeaver on September 10, 2013, 08:18:29 PM
NDP will start targeting the Grits this fall, (http://www.theglobeandmail.com/news/politics/ndp-to-zero-in-on-liberal-failings-this-fall-mulcair-says/article14239247/) but Mulcair said the ads won't be personal in nature (http://www.thestar.com/news/canada/2013/09/10/thomas_mulcair_steers_clear_of_attack_ads.html). Highlighting policy differences: painting Trudeau as "Harper-lite", to quote Peter Julian. I'm certain the gloves will come off eventually, indeed they were never on in Mulcair's PLQ days.



Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: RogueBeaver on September 11, 2013, 08:53:55 AM
Josée Legault has a superb column on the QCV. (http://www.lactualite.com/opinions/le-blogue-de-josee-legault/la-sortie-de-secours/) I don't think anyone else made this key point: since abandoning sovereignty in '95, PQ's been largely rudderless on issues. Marois herself has made her career on technocratic social democracy, as I've said before. Which doesn't exactly get people fired up. Bold Progressives and/or purs-et-durs leaving for QS/ON or sitting out entirely. Really a sort of political limbo. Legault has been saying the PQ should refocus on sovereignty for nearly a decade now, I remember Gazette columns of hers on that 7-8 years ago.


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: You kip if you want to... on September 11, 2013, 09:27:04 AM
NDP will start targeting the Grits this fall, (http://www.theglobeandmail.com/news/politics/ndp-to-zero-in-on-liberal-failings-this-fall-mulcair-says/article14239247/) but Mulcair said the ads won't be personal in nature (http://www.thestar.com/news/canada/2013/09/10/thomas_mulcair_steers_clear_of_attack_ads.html). Highlighting policy differences: painting Trudeau as "Harper-lite", to quote Peter Julian. I'm certain the gloves will come off eventually, indeed they were never on in Mulcair's PLQ days.



Well, by nature, the Liberals are "Harper-lite", aren't they? I'd say that's why so many of their former natural base have found it so easy to support Harper over the last 7 years.


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: RogueBeaver on September 11, 2013, 09:36:16 AM
Economically, yes. But the needle has to be threaded properly, as Dion/Iggy can attest.


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: RogueBeaver on September 11, 2013, 12:43:34 PM
Parliament will be prorogued Friday. Throne Speech Oct. 16, Tory caucus in Calgary Oct. 31. Then the rescheduled convention.


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: RogueBeaver on September 11, 2013, 02:01:46 PM
Gloves are off. (http://www.huffingtonpost.ca/2013/09/11/ndp-caucus-retreat-tom-mulcair-liberals_n_3907117.html?utm_hp_ref=tw)

All 15 Montreal municipalities would take the charter's opt-out provision. (http://www.lapresse.ca/actualites/montreal/201309/11/01-4688328-charte-des-valeurs-lile-de-montreal-se-rebiffe.php) What a joke government we have in Quebec City.


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: Poirot on September 11, 2013, 03:51:18 PM
Maps of cities with income from last census on cbc website.

http://www.cbc.ca/news/interactives/cp-census/index-september-2013-income-map.html?cmp=fbtl (http://www.cbc.ca/news/interactives/cp-census/index-september-2013-income-map.html?cmp=fbtl)


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: RogueBeaver on September 12, 2013, 08:28:10 AM
The Progs are still throwing a hissy fit. How dare Smith defend her constituents against RCMP overreach.  (http://www.calgaryherald.com/news/politics/Minister+apologizes+bomb+sentiments/8900960/story.html) This sort of shinks is one of many reasons they should be shut out in 2016.


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: RogueBeaver on September 12, 2013, 09:20:33 AM
BQ MP Maria Mourani has been expelled from caucus for opposing the values charter, per Radio-Canada. She gave an interview to the same network yesterday saying that it hurts the sovereigntist cause by turning French-speaking allophones against them, when converting allos  has been a PQ goal for years.


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: RogueBeaver on September 12, 2013, 09:27:44 AM
Grenier on the Quebec polls. (http://www.theglobeandmail.com/news/politics/francophones-flock-to-pq-during-charter-debate-polls/article14272103/?cmpid=rss1&utm_source=dlvr.it&utm_medium=twitter) Talks about the PQ's historic advantage with Francophones, but also how the PLC/NPD are tied among Francophones, ~35% now.


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: RogueBeaver on September 12, 2013, 09:30:04 AM
Hilariously, Mourani wasn't even deviating from party policy.


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: Njall on September 12, 2013, 09:30:48 AM
The Progs are still throwing a hissy fit. How dare Smith defend her constituents against RCMP overreach.  (http://www.calgaryherald.com/news/politics/Minister+apologizes+bomb+sentiments/8900960/story.html) This sort of shinks is one of many reasons they should be shut out in 2016.

The RCMP were just trying to do their job, under the difficult and stressful circumstances of an emergency situation.  While she does have an obligation to represent her constituents, Smith is coming off as as nothing more than an opportunist by trying to tie the actions of federal officers to the provincial government.


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: DC Al Fine on September 12, 2013, 09:33:07 AM
Hilariously, Mourani wasn't even deviating from party policy.

They have 4 mp's and they expell one or that? Ridiculous.


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: RogueBeaver on September 12, 2013, 10:33:17 AM
Here's the BQ press release. (http://www.blocquebecois.org/horizon2015/textes.php?t=8458)


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: RogueBeaver on September 12, 2013, 10:48:38 AM
Unsurprisingly, Wynne backs off her election threat (http://www.theglobeandmail.com/news/politics/pragmatism-trumps-posturing-as-wynne-backtracks-on-fall-election/article14269279/?cmpid=rss1&utm_source=dlvr.it&utm_medium=twitter). Question is will Horwath back down from her red line on transit taxes next spring. If not then the Leg runs its full term.


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: DC Al Fine on September 12, 2013, 04:18:38 PM
Abacus has the Bloc at 31% in Quebec. (http://www.threehundredeight.com/2013/09/stability-in-new-abacus-poll.html)


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: RogueBeaver on September 12, 2013, 04:56:42 PM
Jean Dorion calls Mourani's expulsion bad news for the independence movement. (http://www.cbc.ca/player/AudioMobile/Radio+Noon+Montreal/ID/2405916236/) Even Landry called it sad, though he supports her expulsion. (http://www.cbc.ca/news/canada/story/2013/09/12/pol-bq-maria-mourani-quebec-charter-of-values.html) Mourani will comment on this Friday. PQ's always been cannibalistic: they overthrew Levesque himself after all.


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: RogueBeaver on September 12, 2013, 07:44:06 PM
Le "Crois ou meurs" de l'actuel chef du @BlocQuebecois rappelle de mauvais souvenirs. Nous sommes avec toi, courageuse Maria Mourani!

That was Lisette Lapointe on Twitter an hour ago. ;D


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: RogueBeaver on September 12, 2013, 08:42:26 PM
Meanwhile in Ontario, Hudak has booted Hillier to the backbench. Good. (http://www.sunnewsnetwork.ca/archives/sunnews/straighttalk/2013/09/20130912-212649.html)


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: RogueBeaver on September 12, 2013, 09:11:08 PM
O.M.F.G. Mulroney offered Parizeau a Senate seat (as an Indie) in the mid-'80s.  (http://www.cbc.ca/news/politics/story/2013/09/12/mulroney-offered-senate-seat-jacques-parizeau.html?cmp=rss&utm_source=twitterfeed&utm_medium=twitter)


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: You kip if you want to... on September 13, 2013, 09:10:15 AM
Abacus came out with this the other day, changes since June. Outlier?

30 (+3)
29 (nc)
27 (+1)
8 (+2)
4 (-6)


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: RogueBeaver on September 13, 2013, 09:30:34 AM
Abacus came out with this the other day, changes since June. Outlier?

30 (+3)
29 (nc)
27 (+1)
8 (+2)
4 (-6)

Abacus is a crap pollster, and yes this is an outlier. All the reputable polls have the Liberals leading nationally.


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: RogueBeaver on September 13, 2013, 09:48:35 AM
Mourani said she's quitting the BQ, will serve out her term as an independent. Will also reflect on her support for the sovereignty movement. Talked about her long commitment to the cause, said she wasn't allowed to talk with caucus or treated with respect. No regrets about speaking out, wonders whether minorities have a role in the independence movement. As always, wearing the small crucifix necklace.


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: DC Al Fine on September 13, 2013, 07:59:32 PM
Abacus came out with this the other day, changes since June. Outlier?

30 (+3)
29 (nc)
27 (+1)
8 (+2)
4 (-6)

Abacus is a crap pollster, and yes this is an outlier. All the reputable polls have the Liberals leading nationally.

What RogueBeaver said. Also they had the Bloc really high. I think they had a lsight lead in Quebec.


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: Hatman 🍁 on September 13, 2013, 08:24:06 PM
The Abacus CEO is literally around 30 years old. I met him a long time ago, he's a former New Democrat. But Abacus does stuff for the Sun now, so he may be a Tory.


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: RogueBeaver on September 13, 2013, 09:51:54 PM
OLP split on the deficit. (http://www.theglobeandmail.com/news/politics/balanced-budget-goal-splits-wynne-cabinet/article14324275/?cmpid=rss1&utm_source=dlvr.it&utm_medium=twitter)


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: RogueBeaver on September 14, 2013, 08:34:25 AM
Here's a real poll:  (http://globalnews.ca/news/838917/parliament-formally-prorogued-new-session-starts-oct-16/) Harris-Decima has 33-29-24.


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: RogueBeaver on September 14, 2013, 01:26:17 PM
Highly recommend this Michel David column (and he's a must-read for #polqc followers generally).  (http://www.ledevoir.com/politique/quebec/387452/la-partition)


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: RogueBeaver on September 15, 2013, 09:47:19 PM
Waiting for this announcement. (http://fullcomment.nationalpost.com/2013/09/15/thomas-mulcair-may-swap-unpopular-job-killing-carbon-tax-for-steep-hike-in-corporate-rate/?utm_source=dlvr.it&utm_medium=twitter)


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: DC Al Fine on September 16, 2013, 10:30:21 AM
Harris Decima (http://www.threehundredeight.com/2013/09/liberals-continue-to-lead-in-harris.html) has another poll out with the Bloc doing better


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: RogueBeaver on September 16, 2013, 10:32:31 AM
Which is why they should never be written off despite getting zero press coverage even in friendly media like Le Devoir or JdM.


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: RogueBeaver on September 16, 2013, 04:04:55 PM
The House Board of Internal Economy could be overhauled or scrapped. (http://www.hilltimes.com/news/legislation/2013/09/16/conservatives-vow-to-look-at-reforming-scrapping-closed-door-commons-board/35908)


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: RogueBeaver on September 16, 2013, 08:34:47 PM
PLQ Montreal office was raided by UPAC this summer. (http://www.radio-canada.ca/nouvelles/Politique/2013/09/16/009-perquisition-upac-siege-parti-liberal-du-quebec-montreal-financement.shtml) Radio-Canada's trying to get the warrant unsealed for the content.


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: DC Al Fine on September 16, 2013, 08:53:57 PM
Very interesting Leger poll on voting intentions and the charter.  (http://www.leger360.com/admin/upload/publi_pdf/20139161fr.pdf) Interestingly the compromise option is more polarizing than the PQ's. Vote-wise, similar to CROP. QS is polling high on Montreal Island, which hurts the PQ. Montreal Francophones are more supportive of the charter than ROQ ones.

Nugget from Hebert: Marois personally believes that long-term, religious minorities' role in QC public life is a threat to identity. (http://www.thestar.com/news/canada/2013/09/16/hbert_what_motivated_pauline_marois_to_take_such_a_risk.html?utm_source=twitterfeed&utm_medium=twitter) Implicit acknowledgement that the demographic tide's against them. Not that anyone has any solutions about boosting the birthrate, which is far more relevant IMO.

Quiet Revolution is biting the PQ in the ass in that respect.


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: RogueBeaver on September 16, 2013, 09:00:14 PM
Very interesting Leger poll on voting intentions and the charter.  (http://www.leger360.com/admin/upload/publi_pdf/20139161fr.pdf) Interestingly the compromise option is more polarizing than the PQ's. Vote-wise, similar to CROP. QS is polling high on Montreal Island, which hurts the PQ. Montreal Francophones are more supportive of the charter than ROQ ones.

Nugget from Hebert: Marois personally believes that long-term, religious minorities' role in QC public life is a threat to identity. (http://www.thestar.com/news/canada/2013/09/16/hbert_what_motivated_pauline_marois_to_take_such_a_risk.html?utm_source=twitterfeed&utm_medium=twitter) Implicit acknowledgement that the demographic tide's against them. Not that anyone has any solutions about boosting the birthrate, which is far more relevant IMO.

Quiet Revolution is biting the PQ in the ass in that respect.

Birthrate's low in ROC too, for not dissimilar reasons. Still blasphemous. :P


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: RogueBeaver on September 16, 2013, 09:08:03 PM
On another subject, Harper, like Trudeau, is a very light drinker. (http://www.huffingtonpost.ca/2013/09/16/stephen-harper-alcohol-beer-wine-booze-drinking-photos_n_3935054.html?ir=Canada+Politics) Doubtful Mulcair's much different.


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: RogueBeaver on September 17, 2013, 07:51:44 AM
Some interesting consumer protection stuff in the Throne Speech (http://fullcomment.nationalpost.com/2013/09/16/john-ivison-throne-speechs-consumers-first-agenda-will-likely-pit-tories-against-airlines-and-telecos/), plus more intra-OPC warfare. (http://www.thestar.com/news/queenspark/2013/09/17/tory_activist_takes_aim_at_pc_president_for_undermining_tim_hudak.html)


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: RogueBeaver on September 17, 2013, 10:38:08 AM
So let me get this straight: Trudeau's existing economic team is widely respected across party lines. All are former ministers, all 3 have an economic/business background. Their newest colleague is a pundit. A glitzy one, but still a pundit. (http://www.theglobeandmail.com/news/politics/star-candidate-chrystia-freeland-expected-to-join-justin-trudeaus-new-economic-team/article14372923/#dashboard/follows/) My sympathies to Brison & Co.


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: RogueBeaver on September 17, 2013, 02:25:59 PM
PLQ MNA Pierre Marsan has obviously forgotten about his ex-colleague Tony Tomassi. (http://www.lapresse.ca/actualites/politique/politique-quebecoise/201309/17/01-4690073-financement-au-plq-quebec-demande-au-dge-dintervenir.php) Marsan wrote a fundraising pitch to Jewish Grits: donations for daycare slots. Couillard said yesterday that he'd talked to Marsan, it was inappropriate and would never happen again. Beyond the sleaze, this is a perfect example of the PLQ's essentially transactional view of their non-Francophone voters. Then again, they've been that way since Bourassa. Lesage was their last leader to genuinely care before, during and after elections.

Agreed with Kay here. (http://fullcomment.nationalpost.com/2013/09/17/barbara-kay-accommodation-of-a-different-order/?utm_source=dlvr.it&utm_medium=twitter)


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: RogueBeaver on September 17, 2013, 05:27:36 PM
Radio-Canada reporting that a bunch of Liberal ex-MNAs, including Normandeau, are in UPAC's crosshairs.

()

CAQ offers to quickly pass a compromise charter, Marois wants a longer debate. (http://www.winnipegfreepress.com/canada/pq-opens-door-to-improving-religion-plan-224089761.html) Problem is that the compromise would be seen as caving to the opposition parties and thus rob it of any electoralist value, plus a lot of intraparty damage has already been inflicted.

Hear, hear. (http://fullcomment.nationalpost.com/2013/09/17/john-ivison-scrapping-supply-management-would-the-most-consumer-first-thing-the-tories-could-do/?utm_source=dlvr.it&utm_medium=twitter) ;D


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: Hatman 🍁 on September 18, 2013, 08:47:17 AM
Multiple deaths in a train-bus accident in Barrhaven (suburb of Ottawa) :(


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: RogueBeaver on September 18, 2013, 08:49:13 AM
Multiple deaths in a train-bus accident in Barrhaven (suburb of Ottawa) :(

Simply awful. :(


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: Hatman 🍁 on September 18, 2013, 08:49:23 AM
At least 5 dead on the bus.


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: Hatman 🍁 on September 18, 2013, 08:50:50 AM
It was a double decker bus; the people killed were likely on the top level near the front.

I hope this doesn't mean the end of them. I've yet to ride on one of the new style double deckers here.


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: Hatman 🍁 on September 18, 2013, 08:58:50 AM
Apparently, the crossing signals were up and everything- the bus just didn't stop.

Surprising that they haven't yet built a bridge under/over the tracks there. The train tracks through there have an at-grade crossing across the Transitway (the rapid bus-only highway) and a major busy road right next to it. The crash happened on the Transitway.


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: Hatman 🍁 on September 18, 2013, 09:02:38 AM
The train de-railed after impact; VIA rail reporting no fatalities on board.


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: Hash on September 18, 2013, 09:03:03 AM
Tragic and awful :(

Apparently, the crossing signals were up and everything- the bus just didn't stop.

() Some drivers really are idiots.


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: Hatman 🍁 on September 18, 2013, 09:15:27 AM
Train was going southwest, headed for Toronto. Bus headed north headed downtown (probably lots of passengers due to rush hour)


Bus never slowed down... apparently passengers were yelling at the driver asking him to stop.


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: Hatman 🍁 on September 18, 2013, 09:16:40 AM
Picture:

()


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: RogueBeaver on September 18, 2013, 09:33:14 AM
Driver is among the dead. Transport Canada is sending 2 inspectors, Harper and the MPs directly affected - Baird, Poilievre - have already released statements expressing sorrow at the tragedy.


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: Hash on September 18, 2013, 09:36:05 AM
Bus never slowed down... apparently passengers were yelling at the driver asking him to stop.

What a moron. It continues to be incredible how dumb some of these drivers are. I can't say his apparent death is tragic, considering he was a reckless moron who killed people because he can't drive properly.


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: Hatman 🍁 on September 18, 2013, 09:40:16 AM
Bus was route 76, which sounds like an express bus number (runs one way during peak periods, costs more)


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: Hatman 🍁 on September 18, 2013, 09:45:08 AM
Bus was very full, most of the passengers getting on at Fallowfield Stn, which is the major bus station in Barrhaven, and is also a VIA rail train station.


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: RogueBeaver on September 18, 2013, 09:45:44 AM
Watson will hold a presser in about 30 min at City Hall.


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: Hatman 🍁 on September 18, 2013, 09:48:37 AM
Bus driver seemed to be withdrawn, wasn't acknowledging passengers when they got on. Could have been depressed. No attempts to slow down.


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: Hatman 🍁 on September 18, 2013, 10:41:48 AM
Death toll up to six now.


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: RogueBeaver on September 18, 2013, 11:15:14 AM
In other news, wholeheartedly agree that our own Parliament Act is long overdue. (http://www.nationalnewswatch.com/2013/09/17/reform-the-senate-reduce-its-powers-first/) That's what Harper and Poilievre should be working on. Also, Andrew Leslie is joining the Grits as a policy advisor and sounds like he's running in the next election. (http://o.canada.com/2013/09/18/retired-general-andrew-leslie-joins-trudeaus-team-as-adviser/#.Ujm5czLsiBo.twitter)


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: Hatman 🍁 on September 18, 2013, 11:54:19 AM
11 people in critical condition


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: RogueBeaver on September 18, 2013, 12:07:34 PM
Rail crossing has been a critical safety issue for over a decade. (http://www.ottawacitizen.com/news/ottawa/Rail+crossing+where+deadly+crash+occurred+identified+severe/8927990/story.html)


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: RogueBeaver on September 18, 2013, 05:45:23 PM
Dix has submitted his resignation letter to the NDP executive and informed caucus of his decision, but will stay on till his successor's elected. Suggestions of a convention next spring. Now official.


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: Smid on September 18, 2013, 08:02:17 PM
Bus driver seemed to be withdrawn, wasn't acknowledging passengers when they got on. Could have been depressed. No attempts to slow down.

I was wondering if that might have been the case.


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: Hatman 🍁 on September 18, 2013, 10:39:35 PM
I see the BBC has put us in Northern Ontario on their map :P

()


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: Smid on September 19, 2013, 12:01:01 AM
During their reporting of a cyclone, they created a new state of Capricornia in Queensland...


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: Zioneer on September 19, 2013, 02:31:28 AM
Bus driver seemed to be withdrawn, wasn't acknowledging passengers when they got on. Could have been depressed. No attempts to slow down.

If that's true and he/she wanted to end his life, that seems like a rather self-centered way to do it; disregarding the lives of dozens of innocents to end his/her own.


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: Hash on September 19, 2013, 05:32:32 AM
Well, some French newspaper called John Baird 'MP for the constituency of Ottawa'.


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: DC Al Fine on September 19, 2013, 07:19:46 AM
Well, some French newspaper called John Baird 'MP for the constituency of Ottawa'.

Wikipedia is a thing guys -.-


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: RogueBeaver on September 19, 2013, 07:34:02 AM
Though it's actually in Poilievre's riding...


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: RogueBeaver on September 19, 2013, 07:35:27 AM
Though the accident site's actually in Poilievre's riding...


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: Njall on September 19, 2013, 08:28:30 AM
Lines being drawn in the lead-up to Calgary's Municipal elections: http://www.calgaryherald.com/news/calgary/Civic+interest+groups+headed+electoral+battleground/8930255/story.html?rel=841484 (http://www.calgaryherald.com/touch/news/calgary/Civic+interest+groups+headed+electoral+battleground/8930255/story.html?rel=841484)


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: Hatman 🍁 on September 19, 2013, 09:24:26 AM
Bus driver seemed to be withdrawn, wasn't acknowledging passengers when they got on. Could have been depressed. No attempts to slow down.

If that's true and he/she wanted to end his life, that seems like a rather self-centered way to do it; disregarding the lives of dozens of innocents to end his/her own.

It was a man. Apparently it was his wife's birthday the day before. Maybe he was hungover?


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: Hatman 🍁 on September 19, 2013, 09:25:35 AM
Lines being drawn in the lead-up to Calgary's Municipal elections: http://www.calgaryherald.com/news/calgary/Civic+interest+groups+headed+electoral+battleground/8930255/story.html?rel=841484 (http://www.calgaryherald.com/touch/news/calgary/Civic+interest+groups+headed+electoral+battleground/8930255/story.html?rel=841484)

The Calgary election will be boring, due to Nenshi's coronation. Real race will be Edmonton.


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: RogueBeaver on September 19, 2013, 10:05:19 AM
Kinsella claims Chow will run for mayor next year, starting with her memoir's release. (http://warrenkinsella.com/2013/09/olivia-chows-summer/)


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: Hatman 🍁 on September 19, 2013, 10:43:11 AM
Kinsella telling us what we already know. Thanks, Warren!


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: RogueBeaver on September 19, 2013, 11:09:32 AM
32 parliamentary secretaries. Some new faces added to the lineup. (http://www.pm.gc.ca/eng/feature.asp?pageId=39&featureId=8)


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: Njall on September 19, 2013, 01:14:55 PM
Lines being drawn in the lead-up to Calgary's Municipal elections: http://www.calgaryherald.com/news/calgary/Civic+interest+groups+headed+electoral+battleground/8930255/story.html?rel=841484 (http://www.calgaryherald.com/touch/news/calgary/Civic+interest+groups+headed+electoral+battleground/8930255/story.html?rel=841484)

The Calgary election will be boring, due to Nenshi's coronation. Real race will be Edmonton.

I have to disagree with this.  While the mayoral race will be a coronation, the city council elections will be quite intriguing.  The home developers out here have issue with Nenshi's ideas, and they (along with the Manning Centre) are funding "business-friendly" candidates in hopes of getting an anti-Nenshi majority on the council, to put it simply.


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: Hatman 🍁 on September 19, 2013, 01:28:50 PM
Hmm. Is there a list somewhere of their slate? Or perhaps a list somewhere that details the ideology of the council/candidates?

I plan on doing an analysis for my blog, and it would be interesting to know.


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: RogueBeaver on September 19, 2013, 05:40:07 PM
Guess who got named at Charbonneau? Jean-Marc Fournier.  (http://www.radio-canada.ca/nouvelles/societe/2013/09/19/007-sauve-fournier-plq.shtml)  In other news, more polling deadlock provincially. Federally NDP and LPC are tied. (http://www.lapresse.ca/actualites/politique/201309/18/01-4690864-la-marque-liberale-perd-de-son-lustre-au-quebec.php)

Flaherty got BC and Ontario onboard for his national securities regulator. (http://fullcomment.nationalpost.com/2013/09/19/john-ivison-national-securities-regulator-culmination-of-flahertys-ambition-since-2006/?utm_source=dlvr.it&utm_medium=twitter)


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: Hash on September 19, 2013, 07:05:51 PM
List of the victims have been released: http://www.cbc.ca/news/canada/ottawa/ottawa-bus-crash-victims-include-students-public-servants-1.1860438: besides the driver, 2 Carleton U students (both my age), 2 public servants, one person with cerebral palsy.

One of my dad's colleague was apparently at the stop right next to the bus, and saw the train barrier go down, the lights flash and the train's horn was blowing; the bus drove right into the bus and didn't know what the hell was going on. He pulled the body of one of the victims from the bus (though he was still alive). I can't imagine what it must be like to have to do that, I would certainly be traumatized if I had pulled a dead/dying body from wreckage.

It's absolutely sickening, devastatingly sad and heart-wrenching - like any tragedy - but this one even moreso because it's in your community, and these people are people like me and many others - students/public servants, going to work in the morning on a regular commute. You never assume that your regular commute would be your last; I couldn't help but feel a little weirder and different riding the bus yesterday and today. You never know when your 'last day' is and it's horrible. Enjoy life.

I want to know what happened, and why it happened. I don't know what to think about the driver, but admittedly I can't say that I'm on 'his side' with all those eyewitness reports.


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: RogueBeaver on September 19, 2013, 08:02:50 PM
Young people and seniors oppose the charter, CROP registering stronger and deeper opposition than Leger.  (http://www.lactualite.com/opinions/le-blogue-dalec-castonguay/charte-les-jeunes-et-les-retraites-dans-le-meme-camp/) The CSF isn't thrilled either (http://www.ledevoir.com/politique/quebec/387910/charte-le-conseil-du-statut-de-la-femme-musele), meanwhile the PQ has exposed all their coalition's fissures: social democrats, purs-et-durs, rural nationalists, etc. (http://www.thestar.com/news/canada/2013/09/19/pq_has_driven_a_wedge_within_its_own_ranks_hbert.html)


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: Hatman 🍁 on September 19, 2013, 10:07:47 PM
List of the victims have been released: http://www.cbc.ca/news/canada/ottawa/ottawa-bus-crash-victims-include-students-public-servants-1.1860438: besides the driver, 2 Carleton U students (both my age), 2 public servants, one person with cerebral palsy.

One of my dad's colleague was apparently at the stop right next to the bus, and saw the train barrier go down, the lights flash and the train's horn was blowing; the bus drove right into the bus and didn't know what the hell was going on. He pulled the body of one of the victims from the bus (though he was still alive). I can't imagine what it must be like to have to do that, I would certainly be traumatized if I had pulled a dead/dying body from wreckage.

It's absolutely sickening, devastatingly sad and heart-wrenching - like any tragedy - but this one even moreso because it's in your community, and these people are people like me and many others - students/public servants, going to work in the morning on a regular commute. You never assume that your regular commute would be your last; I couldn't help but feel a little weirder and different riding the bus yesterday and today. You never know when your 'last day' is and it's horrible. Enjoy life.

I want to know what happened, and why it happened. I don't know what to think about the driver, but admittedly I can't say that I'm on 'his side' with all those eyewitness reports.

There seems to be no evident character flaws in the bus driver; at least none anyone has mentioned. Perhaps he just had a brain fart? Worst possible time for one.

I agree with you that it is more real to have this happen in your hometown. Although, it still feels a bit removed, since I seldom go to Barrhaven. But I can recall taking the bus from there once. I don't even remember crossing the tracks. It's not something many buses have to do in the rest of the city.


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: Peter the Lefty on September 20, 2013, 04:19:40 PM
And Mulcair continues to pull the NDP rightwards. (http://m.huffpost.com/ca/entry/3941946) I'm almost hoping the NDP loses big time in 2015 so that he'll get the boot.


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: Marokai Backbeat on September 20, 2013, 04:21:52 PM
And Mulcair continues to pull the NDP rightwards. (http://m.huffpost.com/ca/entry/3941946) I'm almost hoping the NDP loses big time in 2015 so that he'll get the boot.

I'm not even sure why so many ostensibly center-left politicians are so afraid of touching this issue, when it is so obviously something they could get away with and has widespread support among the kind of voters they need to get and keep. At this point, on this issue and others, Mulcair is well on his way to making the NDP as bland as the Liberals.


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: DC Al Fine on September 20, 2013, 04:50:40 PM
And Mulcair continues to pull the NDP rightwards. (http://m.huffpost.com/ca/entry/3941946) I'm almost hoping the NDP loses big time in 2015 so that he'll get the boot.

I'm not even sure why so many ostensibly center-left politicians are so afraid of touching this issue, when it is so obviously something they could get away with and has widespread support among the kind of voters they need to get and keep. At this point, on this issue and others, Mulcair is well on his way to making the NDP as bland as the Liberals.

Did the NDP run on a tax increase for high earners in 2011?


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: Leftbehind on September 20, 2013, 04:55:59 PM
Yeah, congrats NDP - first sniff of main opposition and immediately jettison most of the things that separated you enough for voters to propel you there.


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: RogueBeaver on September 20, 2013, 06:04:12 PM
This isn't new, and he's left the door wide open to corporate tax hikes (which the Liberals also ran on in '11, BTW). Focus is on convincing the public they can govern, hence Mulcair's official slogan "competent, responsible, public administration." Nor would any potential Mulcair successor go anywhere near McQuaig's ideas. He hasn't moved the NDP ideologically from where Layton left it.


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: RogueBeaver on September 20, 2013, 06:39:30 PM
On another subject, a good primer on parliamentary secretaries.  (http://o.canada.com/2013/09/20/why-32-mps-were-promoted-to-parliamentary-no-mans-land/)


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: RogueBeaver on September 20, 2013, 06:45:48 PM
Wynne still 100% committed to raising transit taxes.  (http://toronto.ctvnews.ca/video?clipId=1008174&playlistId=1.1463918&binId=1.815892&playlistPageNum=1) We'll see if Horwath is still 100% committed to opposing them when the budget vote comes next spring.


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: RogueBeaver on September 20, 2013, 07:14:15 PM
There's been a beef/pork breakthrough on the EU FTA, removing one of the biggest obstacles. (http://www.winnipegfreepress.com/canada/canada-eu-reach-tentative-deal-on-beef-and-pork-obstacle-in-free-trade-talks-cp-224602651.html) Still a ways to go before the deal can be struck...


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: MaxQue on September 20, 2013, 11:21:23 PM
And Mulcair continues to pull the NDP rightwards. (http://m.huffpost.com/ca/entry/3941946) I'm almost hoping the NDP loses big time in 2015 so that he'll get the boot.

That's not different of Layton-era policies. Running on any tax hike for persons is suicidal with a politician as talented than Harper on the other side. We cannot like him any chance of him twisting that into "MULCAIR WANTS TO TAKE YOUR MONEY". He is excellent at that.


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: Marokai Backbeat on September 20, 2013, 11:45:44 PM
According to an Ipsos poll from May (http://ca.news.yahoo.com/blogs/canada-politics/poll-suggests-vast-majority-canadians-support-taxes-rich-163801021.html), 88% of Canadians support raising taxes on "the rich" (defined by most people as someone making 200k or more) and 89% of Canadians support an additional "millionaire's tax." This poll from 2012 (http://www.theglobeandmail.com/news/national/canadians-open-to-tax-hikes-to-create-more-equal-society-poll-finds/article4100348/) registered similar nation-wide levels of support for raising taxes on the wealthy. Ontario specifically supports raising taxes on 500k+ers (http://www.thestar.com/news/canada/2012/04/19/ontario_budget_andrea_horwaths_taxtherich_scheme_hugely_popular_poll_suggests.html), and British Columbia supports more taxes on the wealthy as well (http://www.policyalternatives.ca/publications/commentary/british-columbians-are-ready-thoughtful-conversation-about-taxes). You can find poll results like this practically everywhere, not just in Canada. Backing off from any personal income tax hikes is straight-up wimpy and stupidly throwing away an excellent opportunity.

There seems to be a very serious disconnect because what the public wants re: taxes on the top-earners and what political parties across the board have the balls to actually implement.


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: Leftbehind on September 21, 2013, 05:58:01 AM
Yeah, Hollande's 75% tax announcement was met here with almost universal horrified reactions from the media/political class. Low and behold, when polled, voters would support it being brought in here.

And how exactly could Harper convince voters they were going to be the ones taxed when the NDP could specifically state a figure in the hundred thousands, which the overwhelming majority couldn't even hope to get near to?


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: MaxQue on September 21, 2013, 06:07:46 AM
Yeah, Hollande's 75% tax announcement was met here with almost universal horrified reactions from the media/political class. Low and behold, when polled, voters would support it being brought in here.

And how exactly could Harper convince voters they were going to be the ones taxed when the NDP could specifically state a figure in the hundred thousands, which the overwhelming majority couldn't even hope to get near to?

Spin and the help of the media. The important isn't what NDP propose, but what media is saying than they propose.


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: Leftbehind on September 21, 2013, 06:23:09 AM
And NDP will be given coverage where they can constantly repeat the figure in question and refute it. The end result from this line of argument is to not propose anything left-wing and egalitarian, lest the all-powerful media ruin you. That sort of cowardice has essentially already allowed them that. The rich being taxed properly is widely popular and no media lies that can easily be corrected will change that.


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: RogueBeaver on September 21, 2013, 01:53:12 PM
On a completely different subject, the OPC convention overwhelmingly (95%) defeated a motion which would've moved up the mandatory leadership review. Hudak's speech and Q&A got mildly positive reviews from the gallery, judging by my Twitter feed. The small bunch of hardened malcontents were put away, at least for now.


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: Hash on September 21, 2013, 02:51:28 PM
http://www.cbc.ca/news/canada/ottawa/ottawa-level-crossing-gate-down-25-seconds-before-crash-1.1861628


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: Hatman 🍁 on September 21, 2013, 03:41:03 PM
http://www.cbc.ca/news/canada/ottawa/ottawa-level-crossing-gate-down-25-seconds-before-crash-1.1861628


25 seconds is long enough to brake I would think...


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: RogueBeaver on September 21, 2013, 04:45:25 PM
Herouxville is split on the charter. (http://www.theglobeandmail.com/news/national/how-is-the-controversial-charter-of-values-going-over-in-the-pq-heartland/article14439565/)


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: DC Al Fine on September 21, 2013, 05:17:53 PM
And NDP will be given coverage where they can constantly repeat the figure in question and refute it. The end result from this line of argument is to not propose anything left-wing and egalitarian, lest the all-powerful media ruin you. That sort of cowardice has essentially already allowed them that. The rich being taxed properly is widely popular and no media lies that can easily be corrected will change that.

The NDP ran on higher tax rates in the past. They were also a perennial 3rd place party.


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: Marokai Backbeat on September 21, 2013, 05:52:17 PM
(Sorry for derailing this is a bit, Rogue.)

And NDP will be given coverage where they can constantly repeat the figure in question and refute it. The end result from this line of argument is to not propose anything left-wing and egalitarian, lest the all-powerful media ruin you. That sort of cowardice has essentially already allowed them that. The rich being taxed properly is widely popular and no media lies that can easily be corrected will change that.

The NDP ran on higher tax rates in the past. They were also a perennial 3rd place party.

If the American Democrats can successfully run on "hey perhaps we should increase the top tax rate by a percentage or two, maybe" certainly the NDP can effectively campaign on that. It's such an easy pander (I use that word in a positive sense) that I don't know why more parties don't actually go through with it. There is more widespread agreement on taxes in public opinion than on possibly any other controversial issue in politics, but you'd never know that if you only watched how parties performed in government.

The NDP's refusal to do so is especially disappointing considering Mulcair's wussying out on other issues (marijuana, climate change policy) that at this point it feels like every time Mulcair is given the option to stand his ground on certain attacks, or differentiate the NDP from the Liberals, he chooses the most boring option. That the NDP is being out-maneuvered on pot by the Liberal Party should just be embarassing. The only issue he's been consistently decent on since becoming leader has been Senate reform; an issue that's going nowhere.


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: Njall on September 21, 2013, 06:03:10 PM
Hmm. Is there a list somewhere of their slate? Or perhaps a list somewhere that details the ideology of the council/candidates?

I plan on doing an analysis for my blog, and it would be interesting to know.

Well, there isn't quite an official slate, as the developers know enough to know that that wouldn't go over well.  But as this article (http://globalnews.ca/news/844198/when-is-a-slate-not-a-slate/) says, there is a group of candidates that are known to have ties to the home developers and to the Manning Centre, and are essentially a slate in all but name.  Something to keep in mind here as well is that these candidates aren't the only ones that the home developers support; they're just the ones who are running in seats held by more left-leaning incumbents.  The incumbents in Ward 3 (Jim Stevenson), Ward 5 (Ray Jones), Ward 10 (Andre Chabot), Ward 12 (Shane Keating), Ward 13 (Diane Colley-Urquart), and Ward 14 (Peter Demong) are also seen as 'business-friendly,' but given the advantage that incumbent aldermen normally have, they're being given less attention and help.

In terms of ideology, there isn't a full platform that they all follow, but they are all seen as fiscal conservatives who would be more open to allowing the suburban sprawl to continue at its current pace.  Nenshi has signalled support in the past for more focus on development in the urban core, as well as for higher fees paid by the home developers when building in the suburbs (the current fees are quite a bit less than the costs that the city has to burden in order to expand service infrastructure to new communities).

As a side note, here is a list of all candidates running in the election, as well as links to their websites and twitter feeds and so on. (http://calgarydemocracy.ca/levels/calgary/elections/2013/ballots)


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: Hatman 🍁 on September 21, 2013, 07:12:41 PM
Well, obviously there is no 'official list'; I was just hoping the media or perhaps an opposition group would have a list.


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: Njall on September 21, 2013, 10:37:00 PM
()

These six are the candidates cited in the media as having connections to Cal Wenzel and the Manning Centre


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: Hatman 🍁 on September 21, 2013, 11:24:48 PM
Thanks!

A thread should be created in the Intl Elections forum about the Alta municipal elections at some point.


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: RogueBeaver on September 22, 2013, 04:29:52 PM
The feds will help fund the Scarborough subway extension. (http://news.nationalpost.com/2013/09/22/stephen-harper-promises-funding-to-extend-torontos-subway-line-in-scarborough/?utm_source=dlvr.it&utm_medium=twitter) We'll sign a shale gas deal with Japan on Tuesday.  (http://www.japantimes.co.jp/news/2013/09/22/business/japan-canada-close-to-deal-on-shale-gas-export-boost/#.Uj9hEvtzbug)
Inside the PMO. (http://www2.macleans.ca/2013/09/21/the-power-of-the-office/)


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: Poirot on September 22, 2013, 10:19:31 PM
The Parti Vert du Québec has chosen a new leader. Alex Tyrrell is 25, he was a candidate in Jacques-Cartier (west island Montreal) in the last provincial election. Federally he has been involved with the NDP, was riding president for Lac-Saint-Louis and a Quebec organizer for Nathan Cullen's leadership campaign.

In the last election the party had a candidate in about half the ridings and got 1% share of vote.


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: RogueBeaver on September 24, 2013, 07:35:04 AM
Le Soleil says Marois is strongly considering a Dec. 9 election. Dissolution would be Nov. 6, 3 days after the municipals. (http://www.lapresse.ca/le-soleil/actualites/politique/201309/23/01-4692399-le-pq-envisage-des-elections-avant-noel.php) However there are many caveats: they'd need to be quite confident of getting a majority (current polling, FWIW, suggests a jump-ball minority), ensuring that voters aren't fatigued after the municipals, and that Charbonneau's current line of inquiry into party financing doesn't touch them. In related news the government has refused to receive a report from its own Religious Affairs Committee on their charter. (http://www.lapresse.ca/actualites/politique/politique-quebecoise/201309/23/01-4692416-quebec-ecarte-le-comite-sur-les-affaires-religieuses.php)


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: RogueBeaver on September 24, 2013, 09:02:41 AM
I mostly agree with (no firings required, just some head-knocking) what Scott Reid says here (http://www.ottawacitizen.com/touch/story.html?id=8938783), and usually like him on the panels, but the idea of Mr. Beer-and-Popcorn - or any Martinet - criticizing others' tactical missteps always makes me sn. That PMO was a clown show if I ever saw one.


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: RogueBeaver on September 24, 2013, 02:27:22 PM
Julian, Simms, Cullen and Donnelly are all considering bids for the BC NDP leadership. (http://www.vancouversun.com/news/national/Four+Democrat+considering+move+provincial+politics/8952895/story.html)


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: RogueBeaver on September 24, 2013, 06:50:42 PM
Who said the following things about reasonable accommodation of Quebec Muslims? (http://www.radio-canada.ca/emissions/le_21e/2011-2012/chronique.asp?idChronique=292470) (37:15 on) "hierarchy of rights" in which gender equality takes precedence over "civil liberties" like freedom of religion,  some rights being more fundamental than others. Or there being more niqab-wearing women in Quebec than the Maghreb? "We mustn't lie down and let people walk all over us and do what they want... mustn't grovel before les autres." Right-wing shock jock or Claire L'Heureux-Dube? Interview was in May, pre-charter, but also includes the Peq talking point about France and Britain. (http://blogs.montrealgazette.com/2013/09/24/the-ex-judge-and-the-veil/)


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: Poirot on September 24, 2013, 07:24:50 PM
I'm wondering if she was a supreme court judge at the time of the RCMP sikh headgear issue (I think the court rules on that ?). Maybe she was in the minority on the court.


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: RogueBeaver on September 24, 2013, 07:47:41 PM
I'm wondering if she was a supreme court judge at the time of the RCMP sikh headgear issue (I think the court rules on that ?). Maybe she was in the minority on the court.

The RCMP recommended to the SG that he lift the ban, which he did. She was in the minority most of the time (2/3 IIRC) anyways, so more likely than not...


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: RogueBeaver on September 26, 2013, 01:52:51 PM
Del Mastro has been indicted on 4 campaign finance charges. Will Harper expel him from caucus like he did Goldring?  (http://www.elections.ca/content.aspx?section=com&document=sep2613&dir=pre-com&lang=e#top) 3 charges for his campaign manager.


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: RogueBeaver on September 26, 2013, 02:17:35 PM
Maximum sentence for DDM is 5 years/5k.


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: RogueBeaver on September 26, 2013, 02:22:20 PM
First court appearance in Peterborough Nov. 7.


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: RogueBeaver on September 26, 2013, 05:51:34 PM
He's been expelled from caucus. Good riddance.


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: RogueBeaver on September 27, 2013, 01:03:16 PM
DDM trial could be in March, and might only take a couple of weeks. (http://www.thestar.com/news/canada/2013/09/27/dean_del_mastro_looking_forward_to_his_day_in_court.html)

Parizeau will soon publish an open letter on the charter, which will probably be in opposition. (http://blogues.lapresse.ca/lagace/2013/09/27/jacques-parizeau-va-t-il-torpiller-la-charte-des-valeurs/) Whether this is a PET-Charlottetown style nuke remains to be seen.


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: RogueBeaver on September 28, 2013, 10:47:28 AM
New Ipsos  poll out: 32 CPC, 31 LPC, 27 NDP. Canadians believe Trudeau is Harper's most formidable opponent 69/31, Tories seen as the best economic managers at 45 to the Grits' 28 and NDP's 14. Tories  (http://www.ctvnews.ca/politics/three-way-race-shaping-up-ahead-of-2015-federal-election-poll-1.1474539) lead by 10 with immigrants, Mulcair leads Trudeau by 8 on who best understands middle-class families.


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: DC Al Fine on September 28, 2013, 10:53:48 AM
New Ipsos  poll out: 32 CPC, 31 LPC, 27 NDP. Canadians believe Trudeau is Harper's most formidable opponent 69/31, Tories seen as the best economic managers at 45 to the Grits' 28 and NDP's 14.  (http://www.ctvnews.ca/politics/three-way-race-shaping-up-ahead-of-2015-federal-election-poll-1.1474539) Tories lead by 10 with immigrants, Mulcair leads Trudeau by 8 on who best understands middle-class families.

Interesting. I guess the Trudeau thing doesn't hold quite the same appeal for people who either grew up voting for or had parents voting for his daddy.


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: Leftbehind on September 28, 2013, 12:55:43 PM
Middle class meaning working class (like in America)?


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: Njall on September 29, 2013, 02:24:26 AM
Checking in from the PC Alberta youth summit in Sylvan Lake.  Lots has been going on; the Premier was here for lunch, and Senator Black was guest of honour at dinner.  Something of interest to note; The Premier's Communications Director told us that the September monthly PC internals had the PC's at 38%, with the Wildrose at 29, Liberals at 19, and NDP at 11.  Take from that what you will.  Alongside that, he said ~60% of Albertans say that the province is on the right track (not that exact wording, but it was that type of question)


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: RogueBeaver on September 29, 2013, 08:17:54 AM
Does Wynne's positivity pledge extend to the Grits' Working Families all-but-PAC? (http://m.theglobeandmail.com/news/national/wynne-urges-ontario-liberals-not-to-go-negative/article14588791/?service=mobile#!/) Otherwise, as always, up to Horwath whether to force a transit tax election next spring.


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: RogueBeaver on September 29, 2013, 11:13:43 AM
Ivison said on QP that Del Mastro is furious at Harper for booting him from caucus given his long loyalty to the PM. Yet despite his popularity in caucus, they weren't exactly inconsolable on his departure. Also said the Goldring model - out until the judicial proceedings are over - will be followed here. Then the panel said the Ipsos poll could be DOOM for Dippers if continued.


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: MaxQue on September 29, 2013, 02:34:40 PM
Andre Boisclair (the former PQ leader, now representing Quebec in New York) sues Duchesneau (a CAQ MNA), Legault (the CAQ leader) and the CAQ itself for libel.

They accused him of giving a contract to someone close of organised crime back in 2003, while being a minister, while being a cocaine addict. They argue than since cocaine is illegal, he must have buy it from organised crime and so, he knew the person who got it.

They have no proof and it's rather weak and filmsy. Most people I know ridicule the CAQ for trying that. Given CAQ fundraising is terrbly low, being sued for libel won't help them (court proceedings are expensive and experts seems to think than they would lose, which would be quite costly).


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: RogueBeaver on September 29, 2013, 04:23:29 PM
We need a bit of comedic relief in provincial politics these days. Can't believe I'm saying this, but hope Boisclair wins his suit. All they had to do was keep quiet and let the contract thing fester. As it is, Sauvé himself said that the HA didn't infiltrate his company till '06...


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: RogueBeaver on September 29, 2013, 04:26:49 PM
Feds will launch a billion-dollar medical marijuana market. (http://www.theglobeandmail.com/news/national/federal-government-to-launch-billion-dollar-free-market-in-medical-marijuana/article14590161/)


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: RogueBeaver on September 30, 2013, 04:59:14 PM
Harper has appointed Federal Court Justice Marc Nadon to fill Morris Fish's vacant SCC seat. (http://www.nationalnewswatch.com/2013/09/30/newsalert-marc-nadon-named-to-supreme-court/) That makes 5/9 justices Harper appointees, and next one will be next year when LeBel hits 75.


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: Linus Van Pelt on September 30, 2013, 09:21:44 PM
New Ipsos  poll out: 32 CPC, 31 LPC, 27 NDP.

Then the panel said the Ipsos poll could be DOOM for Dippers if continued.

Why is this result supposed to be so bad for the NDP, given the Liberal leads from earlier this year?


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: Smid on September 30, 2013, 10:30:44 PM
New Ipsos  poll out: 32 CPC, 31 LPC, 27 NDP.

Then the panel said the Ipsos poll could be DOOM for Dippers if continued.

Why is this result supposed to be so bad for the NDP, given the Liberal leads from earlier this year?

That was my quandry, although I suspect it might have something to do with the "Trudeau most formidable opponent - 69%" part... perhaps there's a thought that the NDP support might collapse into the Liberal column if they think the Liberals have the best chance at defeating Harper?


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: RogueBeaver on October 01, 2013, 08:20:13 AM
Marois is looking at abolishing school commissions (http://www.lapresse.ca/actualites/politique/politique-quebecoise/201309/30/01-4695005-quebec-envisage-labolition-des-commissions-scolaires.php?utm_categorieinterne=trafficdrivers&utm_contenuinterne=cyberpresse_vous_suggere_4695001_article_POS1), and it looks increasingly likely that we will have a December election. (http://www.lapresse.ca/debats/chroniques/vincent-marissal/201310/01/01-4695037-comme-un-parfum-delections.php)


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: RogueBeaver on October 01, 2013, 08:23:48 AM
Kennedy Stewart will run in Burnaby South. (http://kennedystewart.ndp.ca/media-release-new-burnaby-south-riding)


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: RogueBeaver on October 02, 2013, 03:05:19 PM
Parizeau thinks the charter goes too far (http://www.journaldemontreal.com/2013/10/02/selon-jacques-parizeau-la-charte-des-valeurs-va-trop-loin), will publish an article in the Journal tomorrow. Curious to see how the PQ reacts.


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: RogueBeaver on October 03, 2013, 09:01:02 AM
Here's Parizeau's column. (http://www.pressdisplay.com/pressdisplay/viewer.aspx) He thinks the separation of church and state should be explicitly inserted in the Quebec CRF, reminds everyone that religious garb has never been an issue, and that this is in large part flamed by fears of Islam. Supports full implementation of Bouchard-Taylor. On the political side, harms the cause by pushing Allos towards federalist parties. Of course that last one scores a 10 on the irony meter, and the crucifix should be relocated.



Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: RogueBeaver on October 03, 2013, 12:13:06 PM
PQ will make one modification to their charter: no exemptions.  (http://www.lapresse.ca/actualites/politique/politique-quebecoise/201310/02/01-4695843-charte-quebec-songe-a-abolir-le-droit-de-retrait.php?utm_categorieinterne=trafficdrivers&utm_contenuinterne=cyberpresse_vous_suggere_4695863_article_POS1) Sounds like an election plank to me.


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: RogueBeaver on October 03, 2013, 01:00:16 PM
In an interview with Paul Arcand this morning, Parizeau made many of the same points. (http://www.985fm.ca/audioplayer.php?mp3=193094) He also revisited his infamous '95 comments (18:30 on), saying what he had in mind was the strong No campaign waged by Italian, Greek and Jewish community groups. Also noted that Yes was shut out in Cote-St-Luc.  


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: RogueBeaver on October 03, 2013, 06:38:04 PM
Newsflash to OPC: Both sides of Rorange were always your target. (http://www.thestar.com/news/canada/2013/10/03/tim_hudak_targets_ndp_as_well_as_liberals_in_bid_to_expand_support.html) Forum has 36/33/23.

If Prentice ran, he'd place third behind Kenney and Moore. (http://www.ipolitics.ca/2013/10/02/still-want-to-be-prime-minister-mr-prentice/) Which would be sweet.


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: Hatman 🍁 on October 03, 2013, 06:44:43 PM
23 is a bit of a drop. I think that's what we got in the election. So naturally, Forum probably has us losing half our seats ::)


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: RogueBeaver on October 03, 2013, 07:09:52 PM
No argument there. Hudak's toxic unfavourables (I'm still mystified by them) absolutely have to move if he wants to win. Perhaps more performances like the convention's... BBQ, vests, something.

Only news in this Ivison column is that Harper would've quit after a decent interval had he not won his majority. (http://fullcomment.nationalpost.com/2013/10/03/john-ivison-despite-stephen-harpers-paranoia-a-trudeau-mulcair-coalition-is-unlikely/) Even that's not really surprising.


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: DC Al Fine on October 04, 2013, 06:55:14 AM
23 is a bit of a drop. I think that's what we got in the election. So naturally, Forum probably has us losing half our seats ::)

It's even more dumb when you look at where you stand to gain/lose. I think there was one close NDP-Tory race that the NDP won :P


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: RogueBeaver on October 04, 2013, 10:07:42 AM
More hints that there will be a snap QC December election. (http://www.journaldemontreal.com/2013/10/03/marois-prepare-ses-troupes-pour-un-possible-scrutin-automnal)


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: RogueBeaver on October 05, 2013, 09:11:53 PM
LOL @ the idea of PKP ever getting his hands dirty and entering elective politics. (http://blogues.radio-canada.ca/politique/2013/10/05/quand-jacques-parizeau-parle-quebec-solidaire/) Though the fantasy of Premier PKP would make me physically ill.


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: MaxQue on October 05, 2013, 09:22:12 PM
LOL @ the idea of PKP ever getting his hands dirty and entering elective politics. (http://blogues.radio-canada.ca/politique/2013/10/05/quand-jacques-parizeau-parle-quebec-solidaire/) Though the fantasy of Premier PKP would make me physically ill.

I think it would cause a significant part of PQ to leave or join QS/ON/etc.


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: RogueBeaver on October 05, 2013, 09:29:37 PM
Unless the PLQ was led by a Desmarais. :P


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: MaxQue on October 05, 2013, 10:17:18 PM
Unless the PLQ was led by a Desmarais. :P

They value their privacy enough to not go in the spotlight. If/when they lead something, it's from behind the scenes.


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: RogueBeaver on October 06, 2013, 12:19:13 PM
Long but interesting article on bilingualism, wholeheartedly agree with it.  (http://www.montrealgazette.com/life/Brains+crave+bilingualism/8999777/story.html) Problem, last I heard, was staffing issues. Though one can't ignore the political side either.


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: RogueBeaver on October 06, 2013, 12:30:20 PM
Mulcair again rules out tax hikes on the wealthy, said he'd expect McQuaig to be a team player but wouldn't say whether he'd muzzle her on the issue. (http://www.nationalnewswatch.com/2013/10/06/mulcair-rules-out-raising-taxes-on-wealthy/#.UlGdPnhzYy9) She probably won't win, but hypothetically my guess is he'd let speak out to a limited extent as a release valve for left-wing pressure. Sort of like Harper does on certain abortion related votes for socons. Like the Grits Mulcair wants to return the OAS eligibility age to 65, and also wants an increase in payments.


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: RogueBeaver on October 08, 2013, 07:20:18 PM
With the Gritslide in NS, I'm expecting more Gritmentum being hyped by the national media.


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: DC Al Fine on October 08, 2013, 09:14:20 PM
With the Gritslide in NS, I'm expecting more Gritmentum being hyped by the national media.

I'm just happy that this "incumbents always win" crap we've been hearing is over.


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: RogueBeaver on October 08, 2013, 09:16:51 PM
With the Gritslide in NS, I'm expecting more Gritmentum being hyped by the national media.

I'm just happy that this "incumbents always win" crap we've been hearing is over.

Not necessarily. Wasn't over when the PQ won last year, was it? I totally agree that the trend should be shut down but will believe that when the opposition wins whichever provincial election is held next.


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: MaxQue on October 08, 2013, 09:46:36 PM
With the Gritslide in NS, I'm expecting more Gritmentum being hyped by the national media.

I'm just happy that this "incumbents always win" crap we've been hearing is over.

Not necessarily. Wasn't over when the PQ won last year, was it? I totally agree that the trend should be shut down but will believe that when the opposition wins whichever provincial election is held next.

I suppose it's finished. In Quebec, Liberals lost, but came very close of winning, when polls were putting them much further back.


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: RogueBeaver on October 09, 2013, 10:55:45 AM
Paul Desmarais Sr. has died at 86.  (http://www.nationalnewswatch.com/2013/10/09/newsalert-paul-desmarais-sr-dead-at-86/#.UlV8PftzaP9)  RIP to a legend. :(

Yikes: I find myself in wholehearted agreement with Simpson on a foreign policy issue. (http://www.theglobeandmail.com/commentary/this-commonwealth-principle-is-naked-self-interest/article14746307/)


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: RogueBeaver on October 10, 2013, 12:08:21 PM
PKP will continue to attend meetings of select Cabinet meetings, per Marois.  (http://www.lapresse.ca/actualites/politique/politique-quebecoise/201310/10/01-4698448-peladeau-participera-encore-a-des-comites-ministeriels-dit-marois.php)

Mulcair reiterates that he'll raise corporate taxes to the pre-Harper 22% (from 15% now), but "personal income tax increases are not on the table." Nor is a wealth tax. (http://news.nationalpost.com/2013/10/09/ndp-would-raise-corporate-tax-rate-to-pre-tory-level-tom-mulcair-says/) Also open to CETA, but no firm commitment either way. (http://fullcomment.nationalpost.com/2013/10/09/john-ivison-thomas-mulcair-keeps-faith-in-opinion-polls-and-policies-that-resonate/)
Manitoba federal poll pegs 42% CPC, 32% LPC, (http://www.winnipegfreepress.com/local/grits-sanding-away-at-tory-support-227184791.html) with a tie in Winnipeg and Tory drop from 65 to 50 outside the Perimeter.


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: DC Al Fine on October 10, 2013, 02:11:41 PM
PKP will continue to attend meetings of select Cabinet meetings, per Marois.  (http://www.lapresse.ca/actualites/politique/politique-quebecoise/201310/10/01-4698448-peladeau-participera-encore-a-des-comites-ministeriels-dit-marois.php)

Mulcair reiterates that he'll raise corporate taxes to the pre-Harper 22% (from 15% now), but "personal income tax increases are not on the table." Nor is a wealth tax. (http://news.nationalpost.com/2013/10/09/ndp-would-raise-corporate-tax-rate-to-pre-tory-level-tom-mulcair-says/) Also open to CETA, but no firm commitment either way. (http://fullcomment.nationalpost.com/2013/10/09/john-ivison-thomas-mulcair-keeps-faith-in-opinion-polls-and-policies-that-resonate/)
Manitoba federal poll pegs 42% CPC, 32% LPC, (http://www.winnipegfreepress.com/local/grits-sanding-away-at-tory-support-227184791.html) with a tie in Winnipeg and Tory drop from 65 to 50 outside the Perimeter.

Ugh, our trend of outperforming in by-elections may halt soon.


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: RogueBeaver on October 11, 2013, 10:17:17 AM
Policy-free leader criticizes other people for lacking "vision."  (http://www.lapresse.ca/actualites/politique/politique-canadienne/201310/10/01-4698727-le-gouvernement-harper-est-sans-vision-et-sans-ambition-dit-trudeau.php)


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: RogueBeaver on October 11, 2013, 08:33:17 PM
As usual, I agree with Wells. (http://www2.macleans.ca/2013/10/11/why-harpers-foes-need-to-get-off-the-pot-2/)


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: RogueBeaver on October 11, 2013, 11:36:04 PM
Nanaimo-Alberni MP James Lunney (CPC) will retire in 2015 because of redistribution.  (http://www.albernivalleynews.com/news/227435111.html#.Ulix6Ow4-qQ.twitter)


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: RogueBeaver on October 12, 2013, 08:08:15 AM
QC public school graduation rates continue dropping: (http://www.journaldemontreal.com/2013/10/11/recul-de-la-diplomation-au-secondaire) now down to 63% provincewide, 75% for Anglo public schools and 62% for Francophones. On Montreal Island that number is 46%. Now that's what I call a 5-alarm fire, politically speaking. Private school rate is 87%, FWIW.

In other Quebec news, new Leger is out. (http://www.ledevoir.com/documents/pdf/sondage12octobre.pdf) Some highlights: PQ leads 41-26-19 among Francophone voters, PLQ leads 41-30 in Montreal RMR and 42-28 in Quebec City, PQ leads 39-30 in ROQ. For the charter, topline is 46/41 approve but 53/33 among Francophones and 52/34 in ROQ. 45% say the economy's the same, 41% say it's deteriorated.

Federally the PLC is still ahead 33/26/22/14, with the NPD leading 30/27/26 among Francophones and Liberals ahead 58/21/13  among non-Francos. Somehow I highly doubt Harper's numbers will remain that high here. In regional terms Liberals lead 40/23/20 in Montreal, 27/26/25/18 in Quebec City, NPD leads 30/28/24 in ROQ.

Bottom line: Marois is in decent shape, though not in majority territory IMO. Mulcair's clawing back somewhat in ROQ and among Francophones generally. The only real surprise here is Harper getting 21% of non-Francophones, which I don't believe will happen for a minute in 2015. Certainly not surprised at PLC dominance among non-Francophones.


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: RogueBeaver on October 12, 2013, 08:15:53 AM
TCTC pegs the provincial poll as 60-58 PQ, with 5 CAQ and 2 QS. (http://www.tooclosetocall.ca/2013/10/12-octobre-213-soutient-la-charte-se.html) Probability-wise a coin flip. Looks like a gradual return to 2-party politics.


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: RogueBeaver on October 12, 2013, 10:16:35 AM
Peter Loewen has a shall we say, interesting take on NS lessons for the federal NDP.  (http://www.ottawacitizen.com/business/When+comes+economy+voters+hold/9028484/story.html)


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: RogueBeaver on October 12, 2013, 06:08:32 PM
Cullen sounds like he won't be a candidate for the BC leadership if the vote is held next year as planned, suggests his federal colleagues wouldn't be either. (http://www.huffingtonpost.ca/2013/10/12/nathan-cullen-bc-ndp-leadership_n_4090857.html?utm_hp_ref=tw)


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: RogueBeaver on October 14, 2013, 12:39:50 PM
Wallin isn't the biggest spender. (http://www.hilltimes.com/news/news/2013/10/14/sen-wallin-not-biggest-spender-over-last-three-years-senate-documents-show/36292) Biggest Cabinet players this fall will be Moore, Raitt, Fast, MacKay, Poilievre and Flaherty.  (http://www.hilltimes.com/news/news/2013/10/14/moore-raitt-fast-mackay-poilievre-flaherty-expected-to-be-biggest-cabinet-players-in/36286?page_requested=1)


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: RogueBeaver on October 15, 2013, 12:57:05 PM
In a total shocker, young voters will not give Trudeau a new Sussex lease in 2015.  (http://www.huffingtonpost.ca/2013/10/15/justin-trudeau-tom-mulcair-young-voters_n_4101328.html) While young people like him personally, they're ideological Dippers... which has also been my personal experience.


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: RogueBeaver on October 16, 2013, 07:37:50 AM
Harper's almost reached an agreement in principle on CETA, just waiting for final provincial approval (http://news.nationalpost.com/2013/10/16/conservatives-open-door-to-free-trade-with-eu-after-reaching-cheese-import-deal/). ;D


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: RogueBeaver on October 16, 2013, 08:21:40 AM
Ontario Pension Plan? (http://m.theglobeandmail.com/news/politics/ontario-weighs-benefits-of-building-its-own-public-pension-plan/article14883275/?service=mobile#!/)


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: Hatman 🍁 on October 16, 2013, 10:53:40 AM
In a total shocker, young voters will not give Trudeau a new Sussex lease in 2015.  (http://www.huffingtonpost.ca/2013/10/15/justin-trudeau-tom-mulcair-young-voters_n_4101328.html) While young people like him personally, they're ideological Dippers... which has also been my personal experience.

Very good news.


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: RogueBeaver on October 16, 2013, 11:38:26 AM
In a total shocker, young voters will not give Trudeau a new Sussex lease in 2015.  (http://www.huffingtonpost.ca/2013/10/15/justin-trudeau-tom-mulcair-young-voters_n_4101328.html) While young people like him personally, they're ideological Dippers... which has also been my personal experience.

Very good news.

Who'd have ever thought repackaged Chretienism would elicit a shrug? :P


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: Hash on October 16, 2013, 04:34:46 PM
A whole slew of bullsh**t, reactionary policies, right-wing wanking and continued destruction of the public sector in today's Throne Speech, but we can all agree that this one takes the prize:

A law to ensure for every federal regulation added, one must be removed.

Seriously?


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: RogueBeaver on October 16, 2013, 04:47:04 PM
Only thing that interested me was interprovincial liquor carriage. Rest bores me to tears.


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: Hash on October 16, 2013, 04:50:32 PM
Only thing that interested me was interprovincial liquor carriage. Rest bores me to tears.

Brave and visionary policy from Our Dear Leader.


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: Hatman 🍁 on October 16, 2013, 06:31:29 PM
New EKOS poll: http://www.ekospolitics.com/wp-content/uploads/full_report_october_16_2013.pdf

Proud to say that I administered it myself :)



Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: DC Al Fine on October 16, 2013, 07:06:43 PM
New EKOS poll: http://www.ekospolitics.com/wp-content/uploads/full_report_october_16_2013.pdf

Proud to say that I administered it myself :)

Good on yah.

Is there any reason why EKOS tends to get higher results for the Greens compared to other pollsters?


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: Hatman 🍁 on October 16, 2013, 07:48:01 PM
New EKOS poll: http://www.ekospolitics.com/wp-content/uploads/full_report_october_16_2013.pdf

Proud to say that I administered it myself :)

Good on yah.

Is there any reason why EKOS tends to get higher results for the Greens compared to other pollsters?

Something to do with the nature of our panel I guess.


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: RogueBeaver on October 17, 2013, 05:13:19 PM
QP props today go to the usual duo, Boulerice and Poilievre, with Calandra a new addition.


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: RogueBeaver on October 18, 2013, 08:10:28 AM
CETA's agreement in principle has been signed. (http://affaires.lapresse.ca/economie/canada/201310/18/01-4700938-le-canada-et-lue-scellent-leur-accord-de-libre-echange.php) Now to the legislatures for ratification. :)


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: RogueBeaver on October 18, 2013, 11:15:18 AM
NDP doesn't sound so hot on CETA, nor do the Grits. In a mildly amusing QP moment, Boivin is accused of saying BS but says it could mean anything.


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: RogueBeaver on October 18, 2013, 06:32:22 PM
Grits support CETA.  (http://www.liberal.ca/?p=66567) Also, Harper is challenging Quebec's final act in the Clarity War. Took them long enough (http://www2.macleans.ca/2013/10/18/exclusive-stephen-harpers-legal-challenge-to-quebec-secession/). This should be very interesting, methinks.


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: RogueBeaver on October 19, 2013, 09:22:33 AM
More on CETA (http://www.theglobeandmail.com/news/politics/eu-canada-deal-will-include-access-to-lucrative-public-sector-contracts-sources-say/article14946244/?cmpid=rss1&utm_source=dlvr.it&utm_medium=twitter), extract from Wells' latest book,  (http://www2.macleans.ca/2013/10/19/the-longer-im-prime-minister-stephen-harper-and-canada/)

In non-political news, a great Maclean's interview w/Bobby Orr.  (http://www2.macleans.ca/2013/10/17/on-being-left-broke-and-betrayed-pushy-rinkside-parents-and-the-future-of-the-game/)


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: DC Al Fine on October 20, 2013, 07:39:53 AM
Something I found interesting: Halifax has a higher median household income than Toronto and Vancouver. That's ridiculous, especially when you consider how much it costs to buy a house in TO or Vancouver compared to Halifax.


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: Hatman 🍁 on October 20, 2013, 07:44:29 AM
Halifax probably has a pretty low gini coefficient.


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: DC Al Fine on October 20, 2013, 12:32:09 PM
Halifax probably has a pretty low gini coefficient.

I agree, but I think it' more due to our lack of high earning corporate types than our thriving middle class :P


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: RogueBeaver on October 21, 2013, 08:32:43 AM
Yeah, Moore will probably never be leader. (http://www.hilltimes.com/news/news/2013/10/21/industry-minister-moore-has-conservative-party-leadership-potential-say-sources/36352)


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: DC Al Fine on October 21, 2013, 08:41:47 AM
Yeah, Moore will probably never be leader. (http://www.hilltimes.com/news/news/2013/10/21/industry-minister-moore-has-conservative-party-leadership-potential-say-sources/36352)

I just don't see a niche for him. He's too western for the eastern Red Tories, and he's too left wing for the former Reformers.


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: RogueBeaver on October 21, 2013, 08:46:34 AM
He's still, I think, the Red faction leader and their only candidate for next round. Not like there's a whole lot of Red choice. :P


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: DC Al Fine on October 21, 2013, 08:56:45 AM
He's still, I think, the Red faction leader and their only candidate for next round. Not like there's a whole lot of Red choice. :P

I still think MacKay will have the audacity to run.

Personally my preferences are:
1) Some super socon candidate
2) Kenney
3) Other Blue Tories
4) Moore/Prentice










MacKay or Bernier if they run.


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: RogueBeaver on October 21, 2013, 09:08:56 AM
Can't think of an uber-socon, but Kenney's socon credentials are rock-solid. Kenney would also be my first choice, as I've often said.


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: RogueBeaver on October 21, 2013, 12:56:01 PM
More clusterduff. (http://www.nationalnewswatch.com/2013/10/21/duffy-being-railroaded-lawyer-says/#.UmVo_PtzaP-) QP will be fun.



Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: RogueBeaver on October 21, 2013, 02:26:53 PM
Today's QP was all Calandra, Harper, Leslie. The former being the liveliest, with Leslie a close second. Harper got some good shots in too.


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: RogueBeaver on October 21, 2013, 06:57:49 PM
Acting on this will depend on what's in the Elections Act amendments, which I assume is a project for next year. (http://www.ottawacitizen.com/Pierre+Poilievre+seeks+probe+into+unpaid+leadership+race+debts/9063547/story.html)


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: RogueBeaver on October 22, 2013, 08:38:56 AM
Federal CROP: Grits and Dippers tied at 31, BQ at 18, Tories 14. (http://www.lapresse.ca/actualites/politique/politique-canadienne/201310/22/01-4702239-sondage-le-plc-et-le-npd-a-egalite-au-quebec.php?utm_categorieinterne=trafficdrivers&utm_contenuinterne=cyberpresse_BO2_quebec_canada_178_accueil_POS1) No real change since last month.


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: RogueBeaver on October 22, 2013, 11:32:15 AM
Whoa: deficit 7 billion less than expected, 18 instead of 25 billion. (http://www.lapresse.ca/actualites/politique/politique-canadienne/201310/22/01-4702363-deficit-federal-de-2012-2013-sept-milliards-de-moins-que-prevu.php) On track for 2015 balance.


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: DC Al Fine on October 22, 2013, 12:03:43 PM
McNeil named his cabinet today (http://globalnews.ca/news/917593/updated-mcneil-unveils-new-n-s-cabinet-in-annapolis-valley/)

Some of the more prominent picks
  • Diana Whalen (Clayton Park West) - Finance
  • Leo Glavine (Kings West) - Health
  • Karen Casey (Colchester North) - Education (her PC cabinet slot)
  • Geoff MacLellan (Glace Bay) - Transportation
  • Lena Diab (Halifax Armdale) - Justice/Attorney General


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: RogueBeaver on October 22, 2013, 12:09:00 PM
Charlie Angus channels his inner Vic Toews. (http://www.nationalnewswatch.com/2013/10/22/ndp-mp-harper-tories-on-side-of-pedophiles/#.UmawSvtzaP-)


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: RogueBeaver on October 22, 2013, 12:16:18 PM
Posted here because it'd be a beautiful attack ad clip, at about 3:05-16.  (http://blogs.canoe.ca/davidakin/politicsliberals/toronto-centre-irony-alert/)


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: RogueBeaver on October 22, 2013, 03:52:02 PM
Trudeau will be a CAP panelist alongside Albright and Gillard. (http://www.ipolitics.ca/2013/10/22/trudeau-to-sit-on-panel-with-julia-gillard-madeleine-albright-at-u-s-policy-conference/) Something of a mismatch, methinks.


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: DC Al Fine on October 22, 2013, 04:06:48 PM
Is there any chance that Nenshi could be a Liberal candidate someday?


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: RogueBeaver on October 22, 2013, 04:41:58 PM
ClusterDuff is blowing up in the Senate right now. Says that Novak and LeBreton threatened to throw him out of caucus if he didn't resign, he personally met with Harper and Wright. Harper personally ordered him to repay.


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: RogueBeaver on October 22, 2013, 04:59:59 PM
Here's the link. (http://fullcomment.nationalpost.com/2013/10/22/scott-stinson-the-ontario-liberals-signal-the-start-of-a-quiet-surrender-to-the-teachers-union/?utm_source=dlvr.it&utm_medium=twitter)


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: RogueBeaver on October 22, 2013, 05:30:31 PM
Another Senate scandalette, this one involving Kenny. (http://www.cbc.ca/news/politics/ex-senate-staffer-ordered-clothes-paid-cable-bill-for-boss-1.2158666)


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: RogueBeaver on October 22, 2013, 05:36:53 PM
Lots of goodies in the new omnibudget. (http://www.cbc.ca/news/politics/right-to-strike-by-civil-servants-curtailed-by-budget-bill-1.2159404?cmp=rss&utm_source=twitterfeed&utm_medium=twitter)


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: RogueBeaver on October 22, 2013, 07:52:40 PM
Posted here for its hilarity: Trudeau gets inadvertently skewered by his own star candidate.  (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=MNGl4O9T3qg) Whose ads will it appear in first?


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: DC Al Fine on October 22, 2013, 08:06:33 PM
Posted here for its hilarity: Trudeau gets inadvertently skewered by his own star candidate.  (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=MNGl4O9T3qg) Whose ads will it appear in first?

Seems like a good one for the NDP to attack from the left with.


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: RogueBeaver on October 23, 2013, 02:52:19 PM
Wallin went nuclear on LeBreton and Stewart-Olsen (http://www.cbc.ca/news/politics/pamela-wallin-attacks-fellow-senators-in-emotional-speech-1.2186973). LeBreton responded in kind, all but calling Wallin a delusional liar.


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: RogueBeaver on October 23, 2013, 09:45:59 PM
New Nanos  (http://www.cbc.ca/player/News/ID/2414115263/) out: 37/29/23/5. That's +4 for the Grits since August, -1 for the Tories and -2 for the NDP. Caution, the poll was conducted before the Senate news.


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: Hash on October 23, 2013, 10:13:16 PM
People started loving Biebertrudeau and the Liberaliebers again?!


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: RogueBeaver on October 23, 2013, 10:37:06 PM
People started loving Biebertrudeau and the Liberaliebers again?!

Voters seem to see Trudeau, not Mulcair, as the anti-Harper. Of course this is just a snapshot in time, but one consistent finding is that Trudeau's weaknesses are priced in - Harper preferred on judgment, economy, etc. yet a Grit lead. So both war rooms will need to work harder than last time.


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: RogueBeaver on October 25, 2013, 11:01:30 AM
Trudeau refuses to criticize Harper in DC, enthusiastically pitched Keystone to CAP. (http://m.theglobeandmail.com/news/politics/trudeau-joins-madeleine-albright-julia-gillard-in-progressive-washington-panel/article15054554/?service=mobile#!/)

20 years ago today, our previous political universe vaporized. Thankfully. :P


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: Hash on October 25, 2013, 11:20:55 AM
Ugh Biebertrudeau and the Liberaliebers are horrible.


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: RogueBeaver on October 25, 2013, 11:21:14 AM
The PM will be on John Tory's radio show later today to discuss Senate.


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: RogueBeaver on October 25, 2013, 07:33:47 PM
Unsurprisingly, MHF has permanently retired from politics. (http://www.ctvnews.ca/politics/former-mp-and-liberal-leadership-candidate-martha-hall-findlay-not-running-in-2015-1.1513363)


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: Poirot on October 25, 2013, 09:32:41 PM
Bumping to add some news on the Die in dignity law.

Quebec will soon legalize assisted suicide with all party support in the Assembly and largely supportive public opinion. (http://fullcomment.nationalpost.com/2013/06/10/ottawa-unlikely-to-stop-pqs-bid-to-legalize-assisted-suicide/) Doubtful Ottawa appeals to the Supremes. I'm neither surprised about their initiative nor supportive myself.

Kind of surprised none of the parties are voting against it. I figured CAQ would have a few socons.

Are there really any "socon" parts of Quebec? There are xenophobic parts of Quebec, and there are free market types in the Beauce, but socons?

Speaking of which, what party is more socially conservative CAQ or PLQ? My money is on the PLQ.

A few PLQ MNAs (five were named but there could be more) will vote against the Die in dignity law when it's time to vote on the principle of the law. So no big unanimity.

http://www.lapresse.ca/le-soleil/actualites/politique/201310/24/01-4703423-aide-medicale-a-mourir-plusieurs-liberaux-sont-dechires.php (http://www.lapresse.ca/le-soleil/actualites/politique/201310/24/01-4703423-aide-medicale-a-mourir-plusieurs-liberaux-sont-dechires.php)


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: RogueBeaver on October 26, 2013, 07:56:06 PM
Question is whether Horwath flinches on transit taxes next spring. (http://www.cbc.ca/news/canada/toronto/ontario-ndp-unlikely-to-trigger-fall-election-andrea-horwath-says-1.2253122?cmp=rss) If yes, then the legislature runs its full term.


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: Citizen Hats on October 27, 2013, 12:00:45 PM
Ugh Biebertrudeau and the Liberaliebers are horrible.

I'm glad we have such mature and thoughtful opposition


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: DC Al Fine on October 27, 2013, 12:07:45 PM
Ugh Biebertrudeau and the Liberaliebers are horrible.

I'm glad we have such mature and thoughtful opposition

Hash is a Liberal :P


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: RogueBeaver on October 27, 2013, 06:36:20 PM
So Den Tandt thinks centre-right swingers could return Grit based on energy policy. (http://o.canada.com/news/tom-mulcair-is-doing-the-work-justin-trudeau-will-reap-the-rewards/) I rather think not.


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: RogueBeaver on October 28, 2013, 08:59:36 AM
Calandra sketch (http://www.canada.com/news/Paul+Calandra+aide+known+getting+things+done+being+nice/9089334/story.html), Hudak on subways. (http://www.theglobeandmail.com/news/politics/hudak-would-extend-subways-scrap-lrts-as-ontario-premier/article15113241/) As for why Horwath props up Wynne: she gets her cake and eats it too, at least for now. (http://www.cbc.ca/news/canada/toronto/hudak-questions-why-ndp-willing-to-prop-up-liberals-1.2253880)


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: RogueBeaver on October 28, 2013, 12:55:57 PM
ONDP MPP Paul Miller has to sit in the back because of excessive heckling. (http://globalnews.ca/news/929962/ndps-andrea-horwath-bounces-paul-miller-to-back-bench-for-loud-heckling/) Allegedly Horwath told him to "shut up" and he responded by saying "What'll you do, kick me out of caucus." Next *best* thing.

Before tackling Toronto, OPCs, how about fixing your leaders toxic personal numbers? (http://fullcomment.nationalpost.com/2013/10/28/matt-gurney-the-definition-of-risky-conservatives-betting-it-all-on-toronto/)


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: RogueBeaver on October 28, 2013, 03:42:15 PM
Duffy claims CPC lawyer Arthur Hamilton paid his legal fees. (http://www.theglobeandmail.com/news/politics/conservatives-gave-duffy-more-money-than-just-90000-cheque-senator-claims/article15121320/)


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: Poirot on October 29, 2013, 07:13:42 PM
A few PLQ MNAs (five were named but there could be more) will vote against the Die in dignity law when it's time to vote on the principle of the law. So no big unanimity.

On the adoption in principle of the law, 25 PLQ and 1 CAQ MNAs voted against but it passed 84-26. Now it goes to detailed study.


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: RogueBeaver on October 30, 2013, 04:20:41 PM
Nanos Index out. (http://assets.nationalnewswatch.com/wp-content/uploads/2013/10/Nanos-Political-Index-2013-10-25E.pdf)


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: RogueBeaver on October 31, 2013, 08:34:42 AM
I'd believe these get translated into legislation if seen, not before.  (http://fullcomment.nationalpost.com/2013/10/31/tasha-kheiriddin-forget-duffy-harpers-real-war-is-with-unions/)


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: RogueBeaver on October 31, 2013, 09:26:29 AM
Marois says the health tax is good, essentially daring Legault to pull the trigger next spring. (http://www.ledevoir.com/politique/quebec/391402/la-taxe-sante-est-la-pour-de-bon-dit-marois) My bet is that he folds.


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: RogueBeaver on October 31, 2013, 10:37:37 AM
Toronto police have the Ford crack video, they've rearrested Lisi. Blair said it will be submitted as evidence in court.


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: RogueBeaver on October 31, 2013, 10:41:36 AM
A few videos, but only 2 are of particular relevance.


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: RogueBeaver on October 31, 2013, 10:56:21 AM
Blair: Nothing in the video alone that would warrant charges.


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: RogueBeaver on October 31, 2013, 12:43:49 PM
BC Southern Interior NDP MP Alex Atamamenko will retire in 2015. (http://www.kelownadailycourier.ca/local-news/ndp-mp-to-retire-103013.html) That's the first opposition MP to announce their retirement.


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: DC Al Fine on October 31, 2013, 03:19:07 PM
BC Southern Interior NDP MP Alex Atamamenko will retire in 2015. (http://www.kelownadailycourier.ca/local-news/ndp-mp-to-retire-103013.html) That's the first opposition MP to announce their retirement.

That riding's seen some pretty huge swings. Is it an NDP riding or an Atamamenko riding?


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: MaxQue on October 31, 2013, 03:28:31 PM
BC Southern Interior NDP MP Alex Atamamenko will retire in 2015. (http://www.kelownadailycourier.ca/local-news/ndp-mp-to-retire-103013.html) That's the first opposition MP to announce their retirement.

That riding's seen some pretty huge swings. Is it an NDP riding or an Atamamenko riding?

No clue and we will never know. Was created in 2004 and will be dissolved and thorn apart for the next election.


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: RogueBeaver on October 31, 2013, 03:34:54 PM
All the Toronto papers, including the Sun  (http://www.torontosun.com/2013/10/31/ford-must-step-down) and Post (http://fullcomment.nationalpost.com/2013/10/31/national-post-editorial-board-for-the-good-of-toronto-rob-ford-must-step-aside/?utm_source=dlvr.it&utm_medium=twitter), are calling on Ford to resign. Not that he will.


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: Hash on October 31, 2013, 04:30:34 PM
BC Southern Interior NDP MP Alex Atamamenko will retire in 2015. (http://www.kelownadailycourier.ca/local-news/ndp-mp-to-retire-103013.html) That's the first opposition MP to announce their retirement.

That riding's seen some pretty huge swings. Is it an NDP riding or an Atamamenko riding?

Almost certainly an NDP riding. It includes traditionally Dipper-leaning areas (but also some Tory strongholds), which vote NDP provincially as well.

The heavy swing in 2006 (against the Purgatories) is because Harper dumped the Tory candidate a week before the election after he was charged with drug booze and a luxury car


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: Filuwaúrdjan on October 31, 2013, 07:35:59 PM
Before 1993 it was one of the consistent NDP areas in the country.


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: Filuwaúrdjan on October 31, 2013, 07:36:50 PM
lolrobford


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: Holmes on October 31, 2013, 08:49:32 PM
HAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAA

HA
HAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAA

I NEVER STOPPED BELIEVING THAT THE TAPE WAS REAL


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: Marokai Backbeat on November 01, 2013, 01:00:10 AM
I love, love, love, love that it has turned out to be real. This is one of my favorite news stories in years.


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: RogueBeaver on November 01, 2013, 09:25:04 AM
Senate reform: Poilievre strongly hinted he's open to repealing the Regional Veto Act and a (nonbinding IIRC) national Senate referendum. Which would be interesting, to say the least.


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: RogueBeaver on November 01, 2013, 02:11:12 PM
RCMP allege Wallin committed fraud and breach of trust. (http://www.cbc.ca/news/politics/rcmp-allege-wallin-committed-fraud-breach-of-trust-1.2325642) Wonder when the indictments for all 3 will be coming.


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: Hash on November 01, 2013, 03:51:00 PM
And while Wallin, Duffy and Brazeau (women-beater) are still Senators, a bunch of innocent, hardworking and competent civil servants (in my department) got their letters this week. This government is beyond disgusting.


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: MaxQue on November 01, 2013, 05:51:09 PM
And while Wallin, Duffy and Brazeau (women-beater) are still Senators, a bunch of innocent, hardworking and competent civil servants (in my department) got their letters this week. This government is beyond disgusting.

But they are evil, leeches living off the taxpayer hook!


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: DC Al Fine on November 01, 2013, 06:02:19 PM
And while Wallin, Duffy and Brazeau (women-beater) are still Senators, a bunch of innocent, hardworking and competent civil servants (in my department) got their letters this week. This government is beyond disgusting.

Shall I fetch your fainting couch?


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: RogueBeaver on November 01, 2013, 06:07:22 PM
"He [Mulcair] points out that as Quebec's Minister of the Environment, he reduced budgets and the number of employees..." (http://fullcomment.nationalpost.com/2013/10/09/john-ivison-thomas-mulcair-keeps-faith-in-opinion-polls-and-policies-that-resonate/)


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: Hash on November 01, 2013, 07:05:03 PM
And while Wallin, Duffy and Brazeau (women-beater) are still Senators, a bunch of innocent, hardworking and competent civil servants (in my department) got their letters this week. This government is beyond disgusting.

Shall I fetch your fainting couch?

Oh give me a break. Forgive me for not being too jolly about this when people I know personally, who work hard and are good people, are fighting for their jobs and need to deal with tremendous stress in what must be a very difficult period for them; for the only reason that they are the targets of a dogmatic ideological agenda which is hell-bent on sucking life out of the public sector because they "leech on taxpayers' money" or "have it too good" or "need to become more efficient" or whatever horsesh**t they're feeding us.

I know the private sector has it tough too (and I don't want to downplay that); but the public sector has it really tough as well, but of course if we complain then we're lazy, incompetent, spoiled worthless leeches who need to find "a real job". Of course, public servants are awesome targets right now (as the stuff on Mulcair below shows); it's the season to pick on us as the horrible people who are responsible for whatever is going wrong in this country. Naturally, Canada isn't alone in this (the entire world hates public servants now) and Harper didn't invent this, he's just the latest in a series of terrible leaders latching on to it. I hope you'll have the decency to recognize that when, like me, you work in the public sector and will probably work in it for a good part of your life, I have grounds to be very pissed off at what is happening on. So, please.


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: DC Al Fine on November 01, 2013, 08:28:55 PM
It's not that you're upset about the cuts, its that this is just the latest in a very long series of Hashemite hyperbole. Your posts are peppered with references to Purgatories and roasting politicians in ovens that I'd expect to see from a youtube commenter, not a serious poster on Atlas.

Seriously dude, when you want to, you post excellent stuff, but it seems lately most of your stuff is insults and whatnot. I want the Hashemite who writes extensive essays on random countries' politics back.


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: RogueBeaver on November 02, 2013, 09:38:10 AM
There will probably be a Senate abolition referendum if as expected, Supreme Court says reform requires 7/50.  (http://www.theglobeandmail.com/news/politics/how-harper-became-embroiled-in-the-senate-scandal/article15231661/?page=all) Question is how the provinces respond.


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: Antonio the Sixth on November 03, 2013, 10:08:30 AM
It's not that you're upset about the cuts, its that this is just the latest in a very long series of Hashemite hyperbole. Your posts are peppered with references to Purgatories and roasting politicians in ovens that I'd expect to see from a youtube commenter, not a serious poster on Atlas.

Seriously dude, when you want to, you post excellent stuff, but it seems lately most of your stuff is insults and whatnot. I want the Hashemite who writes extensive essays on random countries' politics back.

Utterly loathing Harper is a perfectly serious, rational and morally sound attitude to have.


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: DC Al Fine on November 03, 2013, 06:15:07 PM
It's not that you're upset about the cuts, its that this is just the latest in a very long series of Hashemite hyperbole. Your posts are peppered with references to Purgatories and roasting politicians in ovens that I'd expect to see from a youtube commenter, not a serious poster on Atlas.

Seriously dude, when you want to, you post excellent stuff, but it seems lately most of your stuff is insults and whatnot. I want the Hashemite who writes extensive essays on random countries' politics back.

Utterly loathing Harper is a perfectly serious, rational and morally sound attitude to have.

Regardless of one's views, hysteria is not.


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: DC Al Fine on November 03, 2013, 06:17:56 PM
In other news, rumour is that Megan Leslie is mulling a run for the NS NDP leadership. Should be good for the Halifax wing of the party, but terrible for the rural wing.


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: RogueBeaver on November 03, 2013, 06:23:31 PM
I doubt any of the federal MPs make the jump to provincial leadership, either in NS or BC. Especially since Leslie would be a very strong candidate to lead the federal party.


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: DC Al Fine on November 03, 2013, 06:53:46 PM
I doubt any of the federal MPs make the jump to provincial leadership, either in NS or BC. Especially since Leslie would be a very strong candidate to lead the federal party.

What has she done exactly to merit the leadership?

I mean she's certainly not a bad MP, and would've made a better leader than some of the minor contestants like Ashton and Saganash, but she seems like NDP equivalent of Diane Finley.


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: RogueBeaver on November 03, 2013, 07:00:59 PM
She's an impressive performer, bilingual, seems to have a strong political profile. I don't know how big a grassroots following she has though. :P Plus is already deputy leader.


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: RogueBeaver on November 03, 2013, 07:08:53 PM
Long overdue for Hudak to open a second front. (http://www.thestar.com/news/queenspark/2013/11/03/its_over_between_tim_hudak_and_andrea_horwath_cohn.html?utm_source=twitterfeed&utm_medium=twitter)


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: DC Al Fine on November 03, 2013, 08:52:13 PM
She's an impressive performer, bilingual, seems to have a strong political profile. I don't know how big a grassroots following she has though. :P Plus is already deputy leader.

She's very popular with her faction*, but I'm not sure she has much cross-party appeal.

*Urban progressives who are too rich to be hardliners but too leftist to like Mulcair.... What do you call those?


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: RogueBeaver on November 03, 2013, 09:12:24 PM
Ivison says CPC delegates were thinking about a post-Harper future. (http://fullcomment.nationalpost.com/2013/11/03/john-ivison-faith-shaken-jaded-tories-thinking-wistfully-about-a-future-without-harper/) I'm certainly not, at least not for another 3-4 years.


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: RogueBeaver on November 03, 2013, 09:52:27 PM
Another CPC leadership discussion, this time claiming that Baird may be at least somewhat open to a bid.  (http://www.thestar.com/news/canada/2013/11/03/stephen_harpers_10_per_cent_challenge_tim_harper.html?utm_source=twitterfeed&utm_medium=twitter) I doubt that, he's never been interested. Plus socially moderate fiscal conservatives, in a field where Moore and Kenney would be gobbling up his supporters from both ends... not very viable IMO. Kenney has a hammerlock on the succession if he runs IMO. I'd probably rank my ballot 1) Kenney 2) Baird 3) Bernier 4) Moore 5) Prentice.


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: DC Al Fine on November 03, 2013, 10:10:23 PM
Another CPC leadership discussion, this time claiming that Baird may be at least somewhat open to a bid.  (http://www.thestar.com/news/canada/2013/11/03/stephen_harpers_10_per_cent_challenge_tim_harper.html?utm_source=twitterfeed&utm_medium=twitter) I doubt that, he's never been interested. Plus socially moderate fiscal conservatives, in a field where Moore and Kenney would be gobbling up his supporters from both ends... not very viable IMO. Kenney has a hammerlock on the succession if he runs IMO. I'd probably rank my ballot 1) Kenney 2) Baird 3) Bernier 4) Moore 5) Prentice.

Kenney's easily my #1 choice. The rest are all sort of meh. You're right, Kenney's looking more and more likely. All the red challengers have a fatal flaw. Prentice and Moore are too western, Baird will get crowded out, and Bernier/MacKay have been compromised in their performance of cabinet roles.


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: DC Al Fine on November 04, 2013, 04:19:09 PM
Got a Justin Trudeau ad on youtube... the #RealPriorities one. Now if only we could find out what those real priorities are; I didn't here a single bit of policy in the whole minute ad.


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: RogueBeaver on November 04, 2013, 05:03:43 PM
Here's one: a carbon tax. Plus legal weed. On another note, I think the PM made a mistake with his PS. Calandra is all spray-n'pray and was quite agitated today.


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: RogueBeaver on November 05, 2013, 10:15:26 AM
More Trudeau (http://www.cjnews.com/node/117325). I agree with him on cultural protections, but I do find it rather hilarious from a guy who implicitly called over 80% of Canadians "lazy" (http://www.cbc.ca/news/canada/montreal/pro-sovereignty-protesters-target-trudeau-s-campaign-launch-1.739601) and talked about abolishing separate school systems in NB.  (http://www.thestar.com/news/2007/05/07/trudeau_apologizes_for_language_remarks.html)


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: RogueBeaver on November 05, 2013, 12:26:55 PM
More Fords: Rob admits to having smoked crack, "probably in a drunken stupor." Wants to see the tape. Also, Doug is openly attacking Chief Blair. AG repeats that evidence will be released at trial, not before.


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: DC Al Fine on November 05, 2013, 01:13:03 PM
What's the over/under on the next time Toronto has a conservative mayor? 2053?


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: RogueBeaver on November 05, 2013, 02:05:05 PM
Clark and Redford have reached a pipeline deal, per CBC.


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: RogueBeaver on November 05, 2013, 05:54:31 PM
Brazeau suspended for 2 years without pay, 50-29-13. Guess the other 2 will be as well.


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: RogueBeaver on November 05, 2013, 05:59:48 PM
Duffy also suspended. Wallin vote last. Grits were told to abstain by Trudeau, a lot of Tory senators abstaining.


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: Hatman 🍁 on November 05, 2013, 06:27:53 PM
What's the over/under on the next time Toronto has a conservative mayor? 2053?

Don't be so pessimistic. Despite everything, Ford's approvals are still above 40%. Bush would be jealous, and I'll be the first to admit GWB isn't as bad as Ford.

Of course it takes something more than just being a conservative to win in Toronto. John Tory couldn't do it, and he was a moderate, and as fail as he is, he is not a whackjob. However, conservative mayors of Toronto tend to be whackjobs, and very popular. You don't have to look far to find another one in Mel Lastman.  Fewer scandals and Ford would be looking at a no major opposition in 2014.


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: Filuwaúrdjan on November 05, 2013, 07:49:00 PM
Toronto tends to be run by conservatives; left-wing control is the exception rather than the rule (alas).


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: RogueBeaver on November 05, 2013, 08:00:39 PM
Wallin also suspended, needless to say.


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: Hatman 🍁 on November 05, 2013, 08:43:57 PM
Toronto tends to be run by conservatives; left-wing control is the exception rather than the rule (alas).

True, and it's only going to be worse in this post-amalgamation world.

BTW, I'm watching MSNBC right now, and they're talking about Ford despite it being election night in the USA.


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: Filuwaúrdjan on November 05, 2013, 08:52:25 PM
On the subject of Toronto, I read in the Grauniad today that Paul Reichmann (http://www.theguardian.com/uk-news/2013/oct/28/paul-reichmann) died recently.


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: Njall on November 06, 2013, 02:43:05 PM
Ted Menzies, MP for Macleod, has resigned from the House of Commons. (http://www.cbc.ca/news/politics/ted-menzies-former-cabinet-minister-stepping-down-1.2416819)  He had previously stated that he wouldn't be running in 2015.


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: DINGO Joe on November 06, 2013, 02:52:40 PM
http://gawker.com/39-breathtaking-photos-of-north-americas-most-photogen-1458983349


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: RogueBeaver on November 06, 2013, 03:10:39 PM
Already posted that in the by-elections thread. Will be sad to see him go.


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: Smid on November 06, 2013, 05:10:53 PM
Washington Post does a satirical story on Rob Ford (http://www.washingtonpost.com/blogs/worldviews/wp/2013/11/06/canadian-regime-roiled-by-provincial-scandal-sparking-fears-of-instability/?tid=pm_world_pop)

Quote from: Washington Post
Canadian Regime Roiled by Provincial Scandal, Sparking Fears of Instability

TORONTO – A powerful Canadian official has become entrenched in scandal after admitting to using crack cocaine, a taboo in this socially conservative society. In a country where dissent is limited by traditional mores, the transgression has sparked rare public outrage and raised concerns about the stability of the Canadian regime.
 
The official, Rob Ford, reigns over the restive border town of Toronto, a multi-ethnic hotbed known for its bustling markets (http://www.thestar.com/news/gta/2013/07/23/toronto_financial_district_a_neighbourhood_without_an_identity_hume.html) and history of violent conflict. (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Battle_of_York)


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: RogueBeaver on November 06, 2013, 05:13:47 PM
Tories and Dippers hold an issues monopoly. Grits not seen as best to handle any major issue. (http://www.huffingtonpost.ca/2013/11/06/trudeau-liberals-issues-poll_n_4227386.html) No surprise.


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: True Federalist (진정한 연방 주의자) on November 06, 2013, 10:44:45 PM
Washington Post does a satirical story on Rob Ford (http://www.washingtonpost.com/blogs/worldviews/wp/2013/11/06/canadian-regime-roiled-by-provincial-scandal-sparking-fears-of-instability/?tid=pm_world_pop)

Quote
In Washington, Pentagon planners were said to be preparing for a possible military intervention should political instability spread to Canada's oil-producing regions.

War Plan Crimson (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/War_Plan_Red) anyone?


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: RogueBeaver on November 06, 2013, 10:48:30 PM
So um, yeah, JT has a new event out that makes Hey Girl look tame (http://events.liberal.ca/Event/ladies-event---toronto-spoke-club.aspx?Lang=en&mi=A). I'm now fully sympathetic to Hash's "biebertrudeau" moniker.


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: RogueBeaver on November 07, 2013, 09:34:58 AM
#askjustin is getting deservedly panned by women across the political spectrum as sexist, patronizing BS.


()


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: RogueBeaver on November 07, 2013, 10:25:26 AM
In other news, Mulcair is moving ahead with his plan to recreate the NPDQ.  (http://news.nationalpost.com/2013/11/06/ndp-moving-to-restart-its-quebec-provincial-wing-at-behest-of-thomas-mulcair/?utm_source=dlvr.it&utm_medium=twitter) Now that should be fun, given the history of branch planting here. Who'd lead it?



Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: RogueBeaver on November 07, 2013, 11:15:15 AM
Question is why Dad shifted to begin with, but at least the choice will be clear. (http://www.theglobeandmail.com/news/politics/ontarios-economic-plan-to-shift-focus-from-austerity-to-spending-and-growth/article15303331/)


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: RogueBeaver on November 07, 2013, 12:37:36 PM
QC charter's been tabled. (http://www.lapresse.ca/actualites/politique/politique-quebecoise/201311/07/01-4708179-la-charte-des-valeurs-de-laicite-est-deposee.php)


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: RogueBeaver on November 07, 2013, 12:40:47 PM
More Ford. Says he was extremely inebriated at the time. (http://www.thestar.com/news/gta/2013/11/07/mayor_rob_ford_caught_in_video_rant.html)


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: Smid on November 07, 2013, 03:43:38 PM
More Ford. Says he was extremely inebriated at the time. (http://www.thestar.com/news/gta/2013/11/07/mayor_rob_ford_caught_in_video_rant.html)

The sound clip was played on FM breakfast radio here this morning during the news segment!


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: minionofmidas on November 07, 2013, 03:53:34 PM
More Ford. Says he was extremely inebriated at the time. (http://www.thestar.com/news/gta/2013/11/07/mayor_rob_ford_caught_in_video_rant.html)
That would have been a great excuse for the crack smoking video.


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: RogueBeaver on November 07, 2013, 04:15:09 PM
More Ford. Says he was extremely inebriated at the time. (http://www.thestar.com/news/gta/2013/11/07/mayor_rob_ford_caught_in_video_rant.html)

The sound clip was played on FM breakfast radio here this morning during the news segment!

With or without expletives? CBC initially aired it with. :P


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: MaxQue on November 07, 2013, 04:49:09 PM
More Ford. Says he was extremely inebriated at the time. (http://www.thestar.com/news/gta/2013/11/07/mayor_rob_ford_caught_in_video_rant.html)

At this point, I feel sorry for him. He needs help.


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: RogueBeaver on November 07, 2013, 05:25:27 PM
Ford's mother and sister are saying he needs help, but not in dire straits yet.


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: Filuwaúrdjan on November 07, 2013, 07:59:56 PM
Why hasn't he quit yet?


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: RogueBeaver on November 07, 2013, 08:02:09 PM
Too stubborn, still has a fighting chance next year, no mechanism to do so.


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: RogueBeaver on November 07, 2013, 08:12:29 PM
Technically the province can use Section 451.1 of the Municipal Act: "If the Lieutenant Governor in Council considers that it is necessary or desirable in the provincial interest to do so, the Lieutenant Governor in Council may make regulations imposing limits and conditions on the powers of a municipality under sections 9, 10 and 11 or Part IV or providing that a municipality cannot exercise the powers in prescribed circumstances." Thing is, a Liberal-NDP attack on Ford would be the ultimate red flag to Ford Nation, which is why Wynne's staying out.


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: RogueBeaver on November 07, 2013, 08:14:53 PM
On another subject, what do resident Dippers think of the reborn NPDQ?


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: MaxQue on November 07, 2013, 08:24:39 PM
On another subject, what do resident Dippers think of the reborn NPDQ?

As I'm the most affected Dipper here (as the resident Quebec dipper), I have nothing new to say for the moment. I still think it's unwise to throw ourselves in during a minority and, during the very divisive charter debate.


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: RogueBeaver on November 07, 2013, 08:49:59 PM
Who would ultimately lead such a thing?


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: Hatman 🍁 on November 07, 2013, 08:55:36 PM
Technically the province can use Section 451.1 of the Municipal Act: "If the Lieutenant Governor in Council considers that it is necessary or desirable in the provincial interest to do so, the Lieutenant Governor in Council may make regulations imposing limits and conditions on the powers of a municipality under sections 9, 10 and 11 or Part IV or providing that a municipality cannot exercise the powers in prescribed circumstances." Thing is, a Liberal-NDP attack on Ford would be the ultimate red flag to Ford Nation, which is why Wynne's staying out.

Yes. She doesn't want to upset the surprisingly large % of people in "Fordnation" that dumbfoundedly also vote Liberal.  There's even NDP voters in Fordnation, in places like Davenport, York and Scarborough.


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: Hatman 🍁 on November 07, 2013, 08:56:33 PM
Who would ultimately lead such a thing?

Pierre Ducasse, maybe? Isn't he the one who's taking the charge? He'd make a great leader.


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: RogueBeaver on November 07, 2013, 09:09:49 PM
If it damages all 3 parties though... I'd be curious what'd happen in provincial voting intentions if she rolled that particular dice.

Speaking of ON voting intentions, Ipsos pegs (http://www.ipsos-na.com/news-polls/pressrelease.aspx?id=6311) 34/3131. Among "very likely" voters 38/31/27.. Wynne's approval is 37%, leading preferred premier w/31 to Horwath's 29 and Hudak's 28. Any idea what the seat projection would look like? Tories are collapsed in the GTA w/23% to the OLP's 38% and NDP's 35%.


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: RogueBeaver on November 07, 2013, 09:17:13 PM
Ducasse would make sense, if he wants to do it. Recognizable candidates, fundraising, logistics, the usual. I guess a small-target strategy to start, like QS at its outset? PQ/QS/left PLQ are the targeted voters, after all.


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: MaxQue on November 07, 2013, 09:18:08 PM
Who would ultimately lead such a thing?

Pierre Ducasse, maybe? Isn't he the one who's taking the charge? He'd make a great leader.

Pierre Ducasse could, he finished his book presentation tour and declined to run in municipal elections in Gatineau, as some expected he would do.


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: RogueBeaver on November 07, 2013, 09:25:15 PM
He'd be a welcome presence in the leaders' debates IMO, and in provincial political debate generally. As it is David is the only remotely relatable leader. Will temporarily try and park my usual views on multiparty systems and minority govt, just to see how this turns out. :P


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: Hatman 🍁 on November 07, 2013, 09:33:35 PM
I wonder if he could win a riding like Hull. QS gets good numbers there, but nowhere near enough to win.


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: RogueBeaver on November 07, 2013, 09:42:07 PM
QS got only 8% there last year. You would need to collapse one of the major party votes, which certainly won't be easy.


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: DC Al Fine on November 08, 2013, 06:01:31 AM
Megan Leslie: The biggest problem facing women is this kind of crap.


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: RogueBeaver on November 08, 2013, 08:22:43 AM
Leslie and Chisholm say no to the provincial leadership, Stoffer uncertain but I'd guess he doesn't run either. (http://thechronicleherald.ca/novascotia/1165970-two-mps-say-nope-to-ndp-leadership-stoffer-not-sure)

NDP reiterates their Keystone opposition. (http://www.theglobeandmail.com/news/politics/keystone-not-in-canadas-best-interests-ndp-says/article15324816/)


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: Hatman 🍁 on November 08, 2013, 08:24:27 AM
Who is to blame for Rob Ford? Ford Nation of course (also George Smitherman's campaign incompetence and David Miller, for not running again): http://www2.macleans.ca/2013/11/05/who-is-to-blame-for-this-mess-in-toronto/


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: RogueBeaver on November 08, 2013, 10:05:52 AM
Trudeau goes the full Tom Friedman on China.  (http://blogs.canoe.ca/davidakin/politics/the-country-justin-trudeau-most-admires-you-wont-believe-it/) Then says that the questions at the fundraiser "weren't as fluffy as some were expecting." ROFLMAO.



Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: DC Al Fine on November 08, 2013, 01:43:05 PM
Leslie and Chisholm say no to the provincial leadership, Stoffer uncertain but I'd guess he doesn't run either. (http://thechronicleherald.ca/novascotia/1165970-two-mps-say-nope-to-ndp-leadership-stoffer-not-sure)

Hope Stoffer doesn't run, he's hugely popular here.


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: Hatman 🍁 on November 08, 2013, 06:04:56 PM
No one is asking Alexa?

Stoffer would be a great choice. I'd fear we'd lose his seat in a by-election though.


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: RogueBeaver on November 08, 2013, 06:08:20 PM
Cullen and Simms formally decline a provincial run.  (http://www.vancouversun.com/news/Nathan+Cullen+says+seek+leadership/9144810/story.html)


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: DC Al Fine on November 08, 2013, 06:42:18 PM
No one is asking Alexa?

Stoffer would be a great choice. I'd fear we'd lose his seat in a by-election though.

Alexa's 69 and wouldn't face the voters until age 73. Kind of pushing it IMO.

Stoffer's seat is a mix of blue collar suburb and rural areas; not a Liberal friendly seat. Quitting while the Tories are down in the dumps is probably the best option. Or did you mean you thought it'd be better for him to wait till 2015 to resign because Justin will be receiving more negative press?


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: Hatman 🍁 on November 08, 2013, 09:00:32 PM
Didn't his riding just go Liberal in the provincial election? What's to say that voters wont go Liberal federally?


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: DC Al Fine on November 08, 2013, 09:41:03 PM
Didn't his riding just go Liberal in the provincial election? What's to say that voters wont go Liberal federally?

I suppose you're right. It's definitely a Stoffer riding, so there's a potential for it to swing hard Liberal like Timberlea-Prospect did. OTOH there's 3 ex NDP MLA's that could be candidates ;)


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: Holmes on November 10, 2013, 06:17:25 PM
Senate scandal

()

Rob Ford scandal

()

Justin Trudeau China gaffe

()


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: Hatman 🍁 on November 10, 2013, 06:19:43 PM
The JT China gaffe isn't getting any traction, I'm afraid. Much to David Aikin's dismay on Twitter.


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: RogueBeaver on November 10, 2013, 06:41:12 PM
It is. Chinese and Tibetan community groups are demanding apologies and it's been roiling through the media since Thursday. Then he's calling journalists "breathtakingly cynical" on Twitter for daring to treat Palinesque foreign policy gaffes as, well, Palinesque foreign policy gaffes. Usually pissy self-righteousness we saw with the separatist thing last year. Then Bob Fife said on QP this morning that Trudeau's been complaining to journalists that they're being too critical. ("Chutzpah" is putting it extremely mildly) That's without discussing the family history on certain authoritarian regimes (PRC, Cuba, Vichy, Iran).


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: Marokai Backbeat on November 10, 2013, 06:46:44 PM
I feel like "Trudeau is complaining that journalists are being too critical" has become a constant thing at this point. What does he expect reporters to do, hand-feed him grapes?


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: RogueBeaver on November 10, 2013, 07:14:05 PM
It isn't like he lacks media rationalizers and/or defenders, and not just from the usual quarters. Detracts from things of longer-term relevance: for instance, he announced over the weekend that he supports abolition of mandatory minimums and a carbon tax. (Seems to forget '08, but he'll be reminded) None of which made a splash outside the Sun, at least not yet. Of course, this is all kid stuff compared to a GE, especially the leaders' debates.


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: Hatman 🍁 on November 10, 2013, 07:28:44 PM
I firmly believe JT is covered in a thick layer of Teflon coating at this point. But, we'll see.


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: Smid on November 10, 2013, 07:49:11 PM
It is. Chinese and Tibetan community groups are demanding apologies and it's been roiling through the media since Thursday.

What impact might this have in the vicinity of Markham?

Edit: And Richmond, BC, for that matter?


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: RogueBeaver on November 10, 2013, 08:46:24 PM
It is. Chinese and Tibetan community groups are demanding apologies and it's been roiling through the media since Thursday.

What impact might this have in the vicinity of Markham?

Edit: And Richmond, BC, for that matter?

Won't help the Grit battle to regain votes in those communities, that's for sure.


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: Hatman 🍁 on November 10, 2013, 09:33:47 PM
Chinese vote is as good as gone for the Liberals, I think. I can't see them being within his coalition.


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: Filuwaúrdjan on November 10, 2013, 10:00:33 PM
Of course, this is all kid stuff compared to a GE, especially the leaders' debates.

Yes, that's certainly a point at which he could collapse rather messily. But caution! Excessive aggression would certainly backfire in that situation.


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: RogueBeaver on November 10, 2013, 10:01:00 PM
Same here.

In other news, Donnelly and Julian are still considering the provincial leadership. Donnelly sounds more open than Julian.  (http://www.theglobeandmail.com/news/british-columbia/mp-donnelly-closer-to-entering-bc-ndp-leadership-race/article15371430/?cmpid=rss1&click=dlvr.it) Any Dippers think one or both would run?


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: RogueBeaver on November 10, 2013, 10:15:11 PM
Of course, this is all kid stuff compared to a GE, especially the leaders' debates.

Yes, that's certainly a point at which he could collapse rather messily. But caution! Excessive aggression would certainly backfire in that situation.

True. I'd think they'd hope he visibly stumbles and then pounce, as has happened in past debates, rather than aggressively trying to force an opportunity as often occurs in the House. Debate format isn't that friendly to freelancing, plus most of the time they prefer talking to the camera rather than each other. Especially Harper.


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: DC Al Fine on November 10, 2013, 10:19:28 PM
Chinese vote is as good as gone for the Liberals, I think. I can't see them being within his coalition.

Trudeau sounds weirdly like the GOP; intent on pissing off the fastest growing blocs of voters in the country :P


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: RogueBeaver on November 10, 2013, 10:34:35 PM
Which aren't Liberal, as posited in The Big Shift.

Here's an article on how Quebec abolished its LegCo: guaranteeing the 24 their salary for life. Due to life tenure you had many dinosaurs in there in '68,  (http://www.huffingtonpost.ca/2013/11/10/abolish-senate_n_4249640.html?ncid=edlinkusaolp00000008) including some from the Taschereau era. And some younger dinosaurs, like Asselin, who was the UN's chief organizer for many years. :P


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: Lincoln Republican on November 10, 2013, 10:39:34 PM
It is. Chinese and Tibetan community groups are demanding apologies and it's been roiling through the media since Thursday. Then he's calling journalists "breathtakingly cynical" on Twitter for daring to treat Palinesque foreign policy gaffes as, well, Palinesque foreign policy gaffes. Usually pissy self-righteousness we saw with the separatist thing last year. Then Bob Fife said on QP this morning that Trudeau's been complaining to journalists that they're being too critical. ("Chutzpah" is putting it extremely mildly) That's without discussing the family history on certain authoritarian regimes (PRC, Cuba, Vichy, Iran).

You mean the same Chinese dictatorship that sent in tanks to run over young people in Tiananmen Square?   

Oh my!


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: RogueBeaver on November 11, 2013, 07:57:33 AM
This monthly Hill Times Tory leadership piece that includes people who'll never run is getting old. (http://www.hilltimes.com/news/news/2013/11/11/potential-conservative-leadership-hopefuls-look-to-post-2015-election-or-even/36565?page_requested=1)


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: DC Al Fine on November 11, 2013, 08:08:45 AM
This monthly Hill Times Tory leadership piece that includes people who'll never run is getting old. (http://www.hilltimes.com/news/news/2013/11/11/potential-conservative-leadership-hopefuls-look-to-post-2015-election-or-even/36565?page_requested=1)

Bernard Lord? Really? He might've been a good candidate in the last leadership race but not now :P


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: Foucaulf on November 11, 2013, 08:39:33 AM
I'm not convinced the Trudeau China comments are that damaging. It hasn't spread through the Chinese language press yet, and the ones who take offense are "political expatriates," so to speak. The greater portion of Chinese immigrants are middle-income, white collar people, who are enravelled by consumption tax cuts and the like. It's an absurd comment, but he is targeting the youth demographic more anyway.

That leads into a remark on the conservatism of immigrants. Older ones, well sheltered in Canadian suburbs, are more protected these days from value shifts than if they stayed in their rapidly developing home countries. But my experience shows youth, even first generation ones, integrate very quickly. They have their own quirks, but they have a progressive and liberal worldview and Trudeau is playing into that.


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: RogueBeaver on November 11, 2013, 01:31:48 PM
Laureen Harper interview. (http://www2.macleans.ca/2013/11/11/on-turning-50-her-next-career-move-and-the-challenges-of-raising-teens-at-24-sussex/)

Also, Supreme Court Senate case starts tomorrow. Here's an excellent primer. (http://www2.macleans.ca/2013/11/11/a-guide-to-the-supreme-courts-senate-reference/)


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: RogueBeaver on November 11, 2013, 10:54:21 PM
DC: Yeah. Any list for the next round that goes beyond Kenney/Moore/Bernier/Prentice, perhaps MacKay, is trash IMO.

Foucaulf: I doubt said progressive youth would have much time for it either.

Here's an excellent HuffPo article on Trudeau and the youth vote (http://www.huffingtonpost.ca/jj-mccullough/trudeau-youth-vote_b_4253361.html?ncid=edlinkusaolp00000003&ir=Canada%20Alberta). One big weakness: he neglects to mention that the youngest voters would probably be Dipper for ideological reasons. That's been my experience anyways. Brokered, Chretienite centre-leftism is not exactly their cup of tea.

I mostly agree with Coyne here. (http://andrew-coyne-justin-trudeaus-gaffes-reveal-the-gulf-between-his-intellectual-reach-and-grasp)


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: Hatman 🍁 on November 12, 2013, 11:02:28 AM
Same here.

In other news, Donnelly and Julian are still considering the provincial leadership. Donnelly sounds more open than Julian.  (http://www.theglobeandmail.com/news/british-columbia/mp-donnelly-closer-to-entering-bc-ndp-leadership-race/article15371430/?cmpid=rss1&click=dlvr.it) Any Dippers think one or both would run?

I used to work for Peter Julian. He may be too left wing for the role, but he's got good credentials. He's bilingual, for one (but, so was Dix)- even though it's totally unnecessary for the job. Actually, I think he's trilingual, as he knows sign language too. And when I was working in his office (6 years ago), he was also learning Mandarin.


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: NewYorkExpress on November 13, 2013, 01:52:35 PM
More Rob Ford...

http://news.nationalpost.com/2013/11/11/rob-ford-bobbleheads-set-to-go-on-sale-to-support-united-way/ (http://news.nationalpost.com/2013/11/11/rob-ford-bobbleheads-set-to-go-on-sale-to-support-united-way/)

His bobblehead doll sold out in just a few hours!!!


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: RogueBeaver on November 13, 2013, 01:59:48 PM
Council passed a near-unanimous motion asking Ford to take a leave, which he refused.

Also, PLQ, as awful as the charter is let's stay away from Godwinning.  (http://www.lapresse.ca/actualites/politique/politique-quebecoise/201311/13/01-4710287-fournier-se-defend-davoir-tisse-un-lien-entre-la-charte-et-le-nazisme.php)

Good news: 3.7 billion surplus in 2015. Plus the usual gift-giving.


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: RogueBeaver on November 13, 2013, 04:02:23 PM
Ouch, ouch. If entirely true. (http://www.thestar.com/news/canada/2013/11/13/justin_trudeau_still_making_rookie_mistakes_hbert.html)


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: DC Al Fine on November 13, 2013, 04:09:15 PM
1) No you need to apply to immigrate. We have a points system based on your languages, education, work experience etc.

2) You have to have lived in Canada at least 3 of the past 4 years when you apply, speak English and/or French, and have a clean criminal background. There's also a citizenship test like in the States.

3) You'd have to get a Health Card and Social Insurance Number. Those put you in our healthcare, and tax/pension systems. They're pretty easy to get. Our new minister is American and it took him about 2 hours from start to finish to get them.

4) If you've had an American license for 2+ years, they'll give you a Canadian one without a test.


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: RogueBeaver on November 13, 2013, 11:29:35 PM
Haliburton-Kawartha Lakes-Brock MP Barry Devolin (C-ON) will retire in 2015. (http://www.barrydevolin.com/?p=1180)


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: MaxQue on November 14, 2013, 01:09:51 AM
Haliburton-Kawartha Lakes-Brock MP Barry Devolin (C-ON) will retire in 2015. (http://www.barrydevolin.com/?p=1180)

Surprising. He is only 50 and Deputy Chair of the Committee of the Whole, which is like being 2nd deputy Speaker.


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: True Federalist (진정한 연방 주의자) on November 14, 2013, 02:35:29 AM
At least Canada has only 1 member for Halliburton. ;)


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: DC Al Fine on November 14, 2013, 07:16:05 AM
Haliburton-Kawartha Lakes-Brock MP Barry Devolin (C-ON) will retire in 2015. (http://www.barrydevolin.com/?p=1180)

Should be safe. It was one of the more egregious examples of conservative vote splitting in the Chretien years.


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: Hatman 🍁 on November 14, 2013, 07:52:07 AM
Safe, unless John Tory runs :D


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: DC Al Fine on November 14, 2013, 08:03:17 AM

I thought I had scrubbed my brain of all memories of that guy. :P


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: Hatman 🍁 on November 14, 2013, 09:14:16 AM
Speaking of John Tory, even he could beat Rob Ford at this point (new poll, this time not by Forum Research): http://www.newstalk1010.com/news/2013/11/14/new-poll-rob-ford-would-lose-to-tory-stintz-chow


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: Tender Branson on November 14, 2013, 12:17:09 PM
"I've never said that in my life to her. I would never do that. I'm happily married. I've got more than enough to eat at home. Thank you very much."

-- Toronto Mayor Rob Ford, in a statement, on allegations he told a staffer he wanted to "eat her pussy."

http://politicalwire.com/archives/2013/11/14/quote_of_the_year.html

LOL.


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: Yank2133 on November 14, 2013, 11:03:04 PM
Yeah, that might be the quote of the year.


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: RogueBeaver on November 15, 2013, 09:12:19 AM
Tory's people held a high-profile strategy session yesterday, though Tory himself says he wasn't involved. (http://www.thestar.com/news/queenspark/2013/11/14/john_tory_bid_for_toronto_mayor_building_steam.html) Grits and Tories are onboard, including PC strategists and Liberal ministers.


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: RogueBeaver on November 15, 2013, 11:20:45 AM
Ford has been stripped of most of his powers by Council. Wynne said yesterday that she would hypothetically move only if a) Council makes a specific request b) all-party consent in the Legislature. B isn't happening, obviously.


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: Hatman 🍁 on November 15, 2013, 02:41:34 PM
Ford has been stripped of most of his powers by Council. Wynne said yesterday that she would hypothetically move only if a) Council makes a specific request b) all-party consent in the Legislature. B isn't happening, obviously.

Why not? Are the Tories afraid of alienating Toronto voters? I know they need to win a few seats in the 416 to win the election, but I don't see it being an unpopular move outside of Toronto.

Hypothetical "Ford Nation" types outside of Toronto are going to be less likely to like Rob Ford than within. They just know him through the media, and wouldn't be familiar with his populist appeal.


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: Tetro Kornbluth on November 15, 2013, 05:08:33 PM
So apparently Charlie Sheen is now supporting the mayor (http://www.thestar.com/news/gta/2013/11/14/rob_ford_charlie_sheen_tweets_message_to_mayor.html)

This is my favourite political scandal of all time. Makes even the Blago scandal look boring.


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: Hatman 🍁 on November 15, 2013, 09:51:35 PM
Hands down it's the greatest scandal of all time.


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: RogueBeaver on November 15, 2013, 09:57:38 PM
We Quebecers have some pretty interesting scandals in our past and present, but they mostly involve money and/or organized crime.


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: Hatman 🍁 on November 15, 2013, 10:04:42 PM
We Quebecers have some pretty interesting scandals in our past and present, but they mostly involve money and/or organized crime.

Which is down right boring compared to sex, drugs and alcohol.


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: RogueBeaver on November 15, 2013, 10:08:46 PM
Andrew Leslie may run in Orleans or the new west Ottawa riding. Baird is leaning towards the central Nepean one, Poilievre the reconfigured Nepean-Carleton.  (http://www.ottawacitizen.com/news/Retired+general+Andrew+Leslie+weighs+Liberal+Ottawa+Orl%C3%A9ans/9171116/story.html)


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: Hatman 🍁 on November 16, 2013, 08:14:46 AM
Baird represented that area provincially, but it's not like his current riding is being abolished or anything.


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: RogueBeaver on November 16, 2013, 09:14:04 PM
Mulcair compares Canada/Quebec to UK/Scotland, says he'll stand by Sherbrooke and "wipe the floor" with Trudeau on that question.  (http://www.thestar.com/news/canada/2013/11/16/thomas_mulcair_vows_to_wipe_floor_with_justin_trudeau.html) He wants Grits to name their clarity and %, which no Grit has ever mentioned. Naturally certain Very Serious Journalists are being verbally puritanical as usual. Though I don't think anyone doubts Mulcair would kick Trudeau's ass in a debate more free-flowing than the current leaders' setup, just as Harper and his top lieutenants do in QP.


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: Linus Van Pelt on November 16, 2013, 10:40:49 PM
Ford has been stripped of most of his powers by Council. Wynne said yesterday that she would hypothetically move only if a) Council makes a specific request b) all-party consent in the Legislature. B isn't happening, obviously.

Why not? Are the Tories afraid of alienating Toronto voters? I know they need to win a few seats in the 416 to win the election, but I don't see it being an unpopular move outside of Toronto.

Hypothetical "Ford Nation" types outside of Toronto are going to be less likely to like Rob Ford than within. They just know him through the media, and wouldn't be familiar with his populist appeal.

Many people in the 905 are likely basically as familiar with Ford's background as people in the city itself. It's not as if places like Mississauga or Markham have their own local TV stations or daily papers.


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: Hatman 🍁 on November 17, 2013, 12:45:41 AM
Ford has been stripped of most of his powers by Council. Wynne said yesterday that she would hypothetically move only if a) Council makes a specific request b) all-party consent in the Legislature. B isn't happening, obviously.

Why not? Are the Tories afraid of alienating Toronto voters? I know they need to win a few seats in the 416 to win the election, but I don't see it being an unpopular move outside of Toronto.

Hypothetical "Ford Nation" types outside of Toronto are going to be less likely to like Rob Ford than within. They just know him through the media, and wouldn't be familiar with his populist appeal.

Many people in the 905 are likely basically as familiar with Ford's background as people in the city itself. It's not as if places like Mississauga or Markham have their own local TV stations or daily papers.

True, but people in the 905 don't have to actually think about voting in Toronto elections, so their perceptions are going to be slightly different. They aren't affected by Toronto taxes, so aren't going to be as knee-jerk against downtown Toronto elites to the point of electing someone like Rob Ford. Different story if the 905 were within the City of Toronto.


The existence of someone like Rob Ford could only really happen on a municipal level. His level of outspokeness would never have been tolerated withing the confines of a political party.  Closest thing to that would be the Mike Harris government. 

That doesn't mean Rob Ford types wouldn't be successful outside Toronto. We had Larry O'Brien in Ottawa. I know many people here support Ford's policies, unfortunately.


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: Silent Hunter on November 17, 2013, 04:34:14 AM
I had to look up what "the 905" was; useful to know.

Rob Ford isn't 'outspoken', he's an offensive trainwreck who should not be holding office in any city.


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: Hatman 🍁 on November 17, 2013, 11:26:02 AM
Politically, the 905 is the traditional bellwether region of the province. So, it gets a lot of attention by political pundits.


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: RogueBeaver on November 18, 2013, 07:21:26 PM
Dunno why Ivison spent a whole column restating the obvious Lib/NDP ideological incompatibility, but to each their own. (http://fullcomment.nationalpost.com/2013/11/18/why-a-plan-to-unite-the-left-would-never-work/?utm_source=dlvr.it&utm_medium=twitter)


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: DC Al Fine on November 18, 2013, 07:35:35 PM
Dunno why Ivison spent a whole column restating the obvious Lib/NDP ideological incompatibility, but to each their own. (http://fullcomment.nationalpost.com/2013/11/18/why-a-plan-to-unite-the-left-would-never-work/?utm_source=dlvr.it&utm_medium=twitter)

It's a stock column for people who don't want to write yet another Rob Ford story.


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: DC Al Fine on November 18, 2013, 10:14:41 PM
Something that never ceases to amaze my Maritie parents is Toronto's awful unemployment rate. Many non AB/SK cities including Halifax and Ottawa have lower unemployment rates than the big TO (http://www.cbc.ca/news2/interactives/unemployment-stats/)

High five Earl!


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: RogueBeaver on November 19, 2013, 08:52:40 AM
PLQ is embracing Bouchard-Taylor, banning religious symbols for authority figures, despite an intraparty divide (http://www.journaldemontreal.com/2013/11/15/la-position-liberale-sur-la-laicite-evolue). They're doing this because their position doesn't have the requisite public support. (http://www.lapresse.ca/actualites/politique/politique-quebecoise/201311/18/01-4712121-port-de-signes-religieux-le-plq-change-dorientation.php)


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: Hatman 🍁 on November 19, 2013, 09:23:17 AM
Something that never ceases to amaze my Maritie parents is Toronto's awful unemployment rate. Many non AB/SK cities including Halifax and Ottawa have lower unemployment rates than the big TO (http://www.cbc.ca/news2/interactives/unemployment-stats/)

High five Earl!

YEAH! TAKE THAT TORONTO!

Actually, at this point, I can only pity the big smoke.


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: RogueBeaver on November 19, 2013, 10:33:57 AM
Anyone read the declassified Cabinet documents on abortion? Nothing really surprising that Epp and MacDougall led their respective factions, though anything now would probably get shot down by the Supremes on Charter grounds, IIRC McLachlin has hinted as much.


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: Хahar 🤔 on November 19, 2013, 01:01:27 PM
I had to look up what "the 905" was; useful to know.

Using area codes as commonplace shorthand like this is a very Canadian phenomenon.


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: True Federalist (진정한 연방 주의자) on November 19, 2013, 02:52:47 PM
I had to look up what "the 905" was; useful to know.

Using area codes as commonplace shorthand like this is a very Canadian phenomenon.

But not exclusively Canadian:
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Area_code_404#Pop_Culture_References (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Area_code_404#Pop_Culture_References)
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Area_code_619#In_popular_culture (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Area_code_619#In_popular_culture)


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: RogueBeaver on November 19, 2013, 07:49:48 PM
Maclean's Parliamentarians of the Year Awards ceremony was held tonight. (http://www2.macleans.ca/2013/11/18/presenting-the-2013-parliamentarians-of-the-year/) Stoffer is POTY, Alexander Rising Star, Baird Best Orator, Cuzner Most Collegial, Kenney Most Knowledgeable, Hsu Best Represent Constituents, May Hardest-Working, and Milliken gets Lifetime Achievement.

Unsurprisingly, the Globe still dislikes Sherbrooke. (http://www.theglobeandmail.com/globe-debate/editorials/mulcair-is-very-clear-and-clearly-wrong-on-clarity/article15513300/?cmpid=rss1&click=dlvr.it)


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: DC Al Fine on November 19, 2013, 08:35:49 PM
Anyone read the declassified Cabinet documents on abortion? Nothing really surprising that Epp and MacDougall led their respective factions, though anything now would probably get shot down by the Supremes on Charter grounds, IIRC McLachlin has hinted as much.

No but I'd be interested. Link?


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: RogueBeaver on November 19, 2013, 09:01:41 PM
Here you go. (http://www.cbc.ca/news/politics/mulroney-era-documents-reveal-struggle-with-abortion-laws-1.2430081)


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: DC Al Fine on November 19, 2013, 10:27:52 PM
Here you go. (http://www.cbc.ca/news/politics/mulroney-era-documents-reveal-struggle-with-abortion-laws-1.2430081)

Thanks. Quite an interesting read. Does give me good reason to be wary of the Red Tories :P


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: RogueBeaver on November 20, 2013, 01:22:17 PM
ClusterDuff just blew up in a major way. Nigel Wright could be charged with bribery, fraud and breach of trust.  (http://www.cbc.ca/m/news/#!/content/1.2433427/) One potentially devastating line: that Harper knew in "broad terms only" that he (Wright) was personally assisting him when attempting to repay his expenses. But the RCMP doesn't believe Harper was personally involved in the cheque.

http://blogs.canoe.ca/davidakin/politics/boom-we-are-good-to-go-from-the-pm/
http://www.theglobeandmail.com/news/politics/read-the-rcmps-documents-on-nigel-wrights-cheque-to-duffy/article15523497/?from=15522531#dashboard/follows/


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: RogueBeaver on November 20, 2013, 03:18:31 PM
In less depressing news, Hastman is running in Edmonton St. Albert. Great news, hopefully he climbs the ranks quickly. ;D


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: RogueBeaver on November 20, 2013, 03:24:38 PM
Forgot to mention this yesterday, but Ivison absurdly implied in a Kenney column that his vocal pro-lfie stance could doom his chances of being PM. (http://fullcomment.nationalpost.com/2013/11/19/john-ivison-conservative-partys-pro-life-contingent-content-to-play-a-long-game/) The Gallery and social liberalism...  sigh.


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: DC Al Fine on November 20, 2013, 03:44:53 PM
Forgot to mention this yesterday, but Ivison absurdly implied in a Kenney column that his vocal pro-lfie stance could doom his chances of being PM. (http://fullcomment.nationalpost.com/2013/11/19/john-ivison-conservative-partys-pro-life-contingent-content-to-play-a-long-game/) The Gallery and social liberalism...  sigh.

The Gallery was enamored with Kim Campbell. 'Nuff said.


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: RogueBeaver on November 20, 2013, 03:55:03 PM
I know, but he's one of the best and knows far better.


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: DC Al Fine on November 20, 2013, 04:45:03 PM
Stoffer rules out NS NDP leadership run. (http://atlantic.ctvnews.ca/n-s-mp-peter-stoffer-not-interested-in-leading-provincial-ndp-1.1552485)

Maureen MacDonald will be interim leader. That's a good pick. She's the most senior member of caucus, has cabinet experience, and will make the NDP's left happy.


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: DC Al Fine on November 20, 2013, 04:45:40 PM
In less depressing news, Hastman is running in Edmonton St. Albert. Great news, hopefully he climbs the ranks quickly. ;D
Is Rathberger going to run again?


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: Smid on November 20, 2013, 05:41:32 PM
In less depressing news, Hastman is running in Edmonton St. Albert. Great news, hopefully he climbs the ranks quickly. ;D

This is very exciting news! I hope he gets the nomination and wins the General, he'll be a great MP, a great potential future Minister and I know will stand up for his constituents and give them excellent representation.


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: RogueBeaver on November 20, 2013, 06:46:29 PM
He will be fine. That was a 62% Tory riding in 2011. Rathgeber bows out is my guess. He won't want to suffer a Guergis fate.


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: Smid on November 20, 2013, 06:56:20 PM
He will be fine. That was a 62% Tory riding in 2011. Rathgeber bows out is my guess. He won't want to suffer a Guergis fate.

Redistributed, it becomes 64% (http://fed2012.pollmaps.ca/index.asp).


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: Hatman 🍁 on November 20, 2013, 07:39:38 PM
In less depressing news, Hastman is running in Edmonton St. Albert. Great news, hopefully he climbs the ranks quickly. ;D

This is very exciting news! I hope he gets the nomination and wins the General, he'll be a great MP, a great potential future Minister and I know will stand up for his constituents and give them excellent representation.

Oh, that's what all that excitement was about on Facebook.


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: Linus Van Pelt on November 20, 2013, 07:44:47 PM
Who is Hastman?


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: RogueBeaver on November 20, 2013, 07:51:49 PM

Ryan Hastman, the Tory candidate against Linda Duncan in Edmonton-Strathcona 2 years ago.


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: Linus Van Pelt on November 20, 2013, 08:26:35 PM

Ryan Hastman, the Tory candidate against Linda Duncan in Edmonton-Strathcona 2 years ago.

Is he a significant candidate in some way? Why do you hope he climbs the ranks quickly?


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: RogueBeaver on November 20, 2013, 08:44:09 PM
1) Fond memories from last time 2) good and talented guy with an economic background.


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: Linus Van Pelt on November 20, 2013, 08:48:35 PM
1) Fond memories from last time 2) good and talented guy with an economic background.

OK, I see.


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: RogueBeaver on November 21, 2013, 10:37:47 AM
Most important people: (http://canadaam.ctvnews.ca/maclean-s-50-most-important-people-in-canada-1.1553332) 1) Harper 2) Nenshi 3) UNIFOR president Jerry Dias 4) CPP CEO Mark Wiseman 5) Charbonneau 6) Novak 7) Weston 8) SFI Superintendent Julie Watson 9) Trudeau 10) Blackberry CEO Mark Lazaris. 


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: Smid on November 21, 2013, 06:40:15 PM
James Moore criticises Joe Clark on Facebook (posts photo of front page of "Embassy: Canada's Foreign Policy Newsweekly" with headline: "Joe Clark Calls for a Return to Soft Power") and posts a comment of: "With respect, no. Let's learn from past failures and not repeat them, Mr Clark."


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: RogueBeaver on November 21, 2013, 08:00:52 PM
Hear hear. Mulroney's the only ex-PM with FP advice worth listening to.

Tories are running Cantonese and Punjabi radio ads on Trudeau's drug policy, which seem to be working thus far. (http://www2.macleans.ca/2013/11/21/harpers-brandon-letter-and-the-demon-weed/)


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: RogueBeaver on November 21, 2013, 11:43:40 PM
Great, the Champlain Bridge is literally cracking up. Or at least one of its support pillars is.  (http://www.lapresse.ca/actualites/montreal/201311/21/01-4713413-pont-champlain-une-deuxieme-voie-fermee.php)


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: RogueBeaver on November 22, 2013, 10:20:25 AM
Alberta PCs are holding their leadership review today and tomorrow. (http://news.nationalpost.com/2013/11/21/premier-alison-redford-flat-lining-in-polls-but-alberta-pcs-seem-to-have-no-appetite-to-replace-her/) Most expect Redford to pass, but by how much? Most observers don't think they'll boot their leader for the fourth consecutive time, mostly because they're in no mood to do so. There's still time, and at any rate I hope they keep her till 2016.


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: RogueBeaver on November 22, 2013, 07:57:31 PM
Things could get interesting if Wright is charged or the Tories lose Brandon-Souris.  (http://fullcomment.nationalpost.com/2013/11/22/john-ivison-senate-scandal-may-have-made-stephen-harper-an-electoral-liability-in-west/?utm_source=dlvr.it&utm_medium=twitter)


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: Poirot on November 22, 2013, 10:29:32 PM
Things could get interesting if Wright is charged or the Tories lose Brandon-Souris.  (http://fullcomment.nationalpost.com/2013/11/22/john-ivison-senate-scandal-may-have-made-stephen-harper-an-electoral-liability-in-west/?utm_source=dlvr.it&utm_medium=twitter)

Harper electoral liability in the west? He's mostly been a liability in the east. mUst not be going well if he is in the Reform west now.


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: RogueBeaver on November 22, 2013, 10:45:45 PM
Trudeau calls the PLQ "supposedly federalist." Actually, he was referring to the NDP. (https://twitter.com/punditsguide/status/403551622577410048) On the flip side, Mulcair talking that up hurts him in Ontario. So a draw.


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: Hatman 🍁 on November 22, 2013, 11:47:22 PM
Brandon-Souris never voted Reform or Alliance


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: RogueBeaver on November 22, 2013, 11:53:40 PM
It has been one form of Tory or another for eons, '93 excepted, though. Personally I expect another Calgary Centre.


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: RogueBeaver on November 23, 2013, 12:17:51 AM
Forgot to post these CROP from a couple of days ago. (http://www.lapresse.ca/le-soleil/actualites/politique/201311/19/01-4712526-sondage-crop-le-plq-devance-toujours-le-pq.php) 36-28-16-13 topline federally, 31 apiece among Francophones with a 57-19 Liberal lead over the Tories among non-Francophones. 308 projects that as 42-32-4, with the BQ being wiped out. Never seen the latter in a poll, don't recall last time I saw the first. Still happy results for me.

Provincially a 37-32-17 race, with a 39-27 PQ lead among Francophones. CROP projects a Liberal minority with those numbers. 308 60-57 PLQ.


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: RogueBeaver on November 23, 2013, 12:20:13 AM
Kenney will run in Calgary-Midnapore, he just announced.


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: DC Al Fine on November 23, 2013, 09:31:06 AM
Kenney will run in Calgary-Midnapore, he just announced.

So Harper takes Heritage? That would leave a nice safe seat open in Calgary Shepard


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: Poirot on November 23, 2013, 11:29:48 AM
Great, the Champlain Bridge is literally cracking up. Or at least one of its support pillars is.  (http://www.lapresse.ca/actualites/montreal/201311/21/01-4713413-pont-champlain-une-deuxieme-voie-fermee.php)

I think I will email the Infrastructure minister and tell him what I think of the governement not refusing to pay to replace its crumbling bridge and make it finance by tolls. 


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: RogueBeaver on November 23, 2013, 06:34:06 PM
Mulcair hitting Trudeau on the Kenny sexual harassment allegations. (http://www.sunnewsnetwork.ca/sunnews/politics/archives/2013/11/20131123-165025.html#.UpE4dLbpGUg.twitter)


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: Хahar 🤔 on November 23, 2013, 07:36:31 PM
Odd that a Canadian riding has a Bengali name.


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: Hatman 🍁 on November 23, 2013, 08:33:47 PM
The riding doesn't exist yet, but it's named after this: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Midnapore,_Calgary


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: Hatman 🍁 on November 23, 2013, 08:40:37 PM
Personally, I would've called the riding "Calgary - Acadia - Spruce Meadows" or perhaps just "Acadia - Spruce Meadows", but perhaps Calgary hasn't graduated to the point of being able to have ridings that don't have the city name in it (like Toronto, Montreal or... Winnipeg)


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: DC Al Fine on November 23, 2013, 08:50:19 PM
Personally, I would've called the riding "Calgary - Acadia - Spruce Meadows" or perhaps just "Acadia - Spruce Meadows", but perhaps Calgary hasn't graduated to the point of being able to have ridings that don't have the city name in it (like Toronto, Montreal or... Winnipeg)

Heck, even Halifax has Dartmouth-Cole Harbour and Sackville-Eastern Shore. :P


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: Hatman 🍁 on November 23, 2013, 10:58:16 PM
Personally, I would've called the riding "Calgary - Acadia - Spruce Meadows" or perhaps just "Acadia - Spruce Meadows", but perhaps Calgary hasn't graduated to the point of being able to have ridings that don't have the city name in it (like Toronto, Montreal or... Winnipeg)

Heck, even Halifax has Dartmouth-Cole Harbour and Sackville-Eastern Shore. :P

(Recent) Amalgamations don't count, which is why I didn't include Ottawa. Although, contradicting this rule is Ottawa-Orleans which never included any part of Ottawa before amalgamation in 2001. For this reason, I'd just drop "Ottawa" from the name, and possibly add "Gloucester" after ("Orleans-Gloucester").


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: RogueBeaver on November 25, 2013, 12:12:05 AM
PET's war on economics. Knew the policies, not some of the quotes.  (http://fullcomment.nationalpost.com/2013/11/25/bob-plamondon-pierre-trudeaus-war-on-economics/?utm_source=dlvr.it&utm_medium=twitter)


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: RogueBeaver on November 25, 2013, 02:25:41 PM
Gagnon unintentionally hilariously summarizes Couillard's tenure as PLQ leader thus far. Flip-flop, refuse to impose caucus discipline and hide from the media. Oh, and get interviewed by police.  (http://www.lapresse.ca/debats/chroniques/lysiane-gagnon/201311/22/01-4713742-couillard-en-dix-actes.php) PRODIGAL SON RETURNS!!! This isn't the Couillard I remember from last time.

On another subject, Hastman interview. (http://www.stalbertgazette.com/article/20131122/SAG0801/311229999/0/)


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: RogueBeaver on November 25, 2013, 03:14:22 PM
Calandra trolled real hard today: calling Mulcair a corrupt Liberal who accepted that bribe and saying 3/4 of Grits have fraud convictions in their past.


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: Miles on November 25, 2013, 03:18:30 PM
Ontario is banning coal. (http://thinkprogress.org/climate/2013/11/25/2991091/ontario-banning-coal/) :(



Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: RogueBeaver on November 25, 2013, 03:26:56 PM
Unfortunately that's an all-party consensus in Ontario now, even for the severely conservative Tories. Pity.


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: Hatman 🍁 on November 25, 2013, 05:01:31 PM
Coal is disgusting. Why shouldn't we ban it?


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: Miles on November 25, 2013, 09:01:18 PM
 
Unfortunately that's an all-party consensus in Ontario now, even for the severely conservative Tories. Pity.

Wow, no kidding.


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: MaxQue on November 27, 2013, 10:52:24 PM
Conservatives are continuing to well-manage the public money, as they apparently appointed a friend of Flaherty as President of the Royal Mint.

Through, he apparently ran a tax-dodging scheme in the past. Another dubious appointment by Tories, we are getting used to it.

http://www.cbc.ca/news/politics/jim-love-canadian-mint-chairman-helped-run-offshore-tax-avoidance-scheme-for-clients-1.2441347 (http://www.cbc.ca/news/politics/jim-love-canadian-mint-chairman-helped-run-offshore-tax-avoidance-scheme-for-clients-1.2441347)


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: RogueBeaver on November 27, 2013, 11:03:40 PM
He should be fired, obviously.


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: RogueBeaver on November 28, 2013, 10:17:47 PM
National Ipsos: 35 LPC, 29 CPC, 26 NDP. (http://www.ctvnews.ca/politics/liberals-take-6-point-national-lead-advance-in-key-provinces-poll-1.1565979) 37-30-29 in Ontario, 37L/30N/29C in BC, 33/27/27/12 in QC. Among highly motivated voters 37L. This said, I love me some comparative vote efficiency, among other things.


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: Filuwaúrdjan on November 29, 2013, 11:58:24 AM
A three way clusterf[inks]ck election would be fun.


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: DC Al Fine on November 29, 2013, 12:01:51 PM
A three way clusterf[inks]ck election would be fun.

Parts of Quebec City could be a legit 4 way race like Gatineau in 08.


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: RogueBeaver on November 29, 2013, 12:20:38 PM
Yeah, that's projected as 126 Liberals, 121 Tories, 60 NDP and 30 BQ. Needless to say Harper would quit after a decent interval if the Tories were reduced to a minority. I find the Quebec numbers most interesting, given that they're very different from CROP which shows a BQ shutout (!). I'd believe CROP and Leger over Ipsos for QC myself.

Another thing is that a weak Liberal minority in 2015 could be bad for them long-term. Rookie PM has to form a government from aging (and not so aging, like Brison) veterans, many of whom I expect to retire soon, and newcomers not only to Parliament, but in many cases elected office and guide it to an early election against Kenney and Cullen/Leslie/? That's probably one reason why they've leaked a 2-election strategy before.


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: RogueBeaver on November 29, 2013, 12:55:28 PM
OLP wants Trudeau to help them at election time. (http://www.thestar.com/news/queenspark/2013/11/29/ontario_liberals_keen_to_ride_justin_trudeaus_coattails.html?utm_source=twitterfeed&utm_medium=twitter) Guess running on a tax increase isn't as fun as it sounded.


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: RogueBeaver on December 01, 2013, 10:36:19 AM
Looks like Horwath is finally ready to go for gold  (http://www.thestar.com/news/queenspark/2013/11/30/hark_election_season_will_soon_be_upon_us_cohn.html) and pull the plug this spring. "I've made it clear that I'm seeking the job of premier." another Ipsos or NanoWe need s poll here. As a reminder, here's the one from last month. (http://www.ipsos-na.com/news-polls/pressrelease.aspx?id=6311) Something for everyone in there.


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: RogueBeaver on December 01, 2013, 11:07:28 PM
Ontario Dippers: does Horwath really think she could win? Those Ipsos LV numbers suggest a certain type of Horwath surge could lead to a Tory government.


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: Hatman 🍁 on December 01, 2013, 11:36:24 PM
Ontario Dippers: does Horwath really think she could win? Those Ipsos LV numbers suggest a certain type of Horwath surge could lead to a Tory government.

The NDP hasn't had this much of a chance of winning since 1990, so yes. I have seen polls over the last couple of years that showed a 3 way race, with all three parties in the low 30s.


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: RogueBeaver on December 01, 2013, 11:42:35 PM
As always it'll be won in the campaign, and no one's really opened up on the NDP yet. More generally I'd like to be cautiously optimistic. :P


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: Peter the Lefty on December 02, 2013, 12:21:24 PM
Ontario Dippers: does Horwath really think she could win? Those Ipsos LV numbers suggest a certain type of Horwath surge could lead to a Tory government.

The NDP hasn't had this much of a chance of winning since 1990, so yes. I have seen polls over the last couple of years that showed a 3 way race, with all three parties in the low 30s.
Giggidy giggidy


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: RogueBeaver on December 02, 2013, 04:22:48 PM
Congrats OLP, you're doubling hydro prices! (http://northernontario.ctvnews.ca/ontario-electricity-rates-to-keep-rising-as-long-term-energy-plan-released-1.1569774)


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: MaxQue on December 02, 2013, 05:35:12 PM
Congrats OLP, you're doubling hydro prices! (http://northernontario.ctvnews.ca/ontario-electricity-rates-to-keep-rising-as-long-term-energy-plan-released-1.1569774)

The BC "free-entreprise coalition" is proposing to raise them by 27%, too.


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: RogueBeaver on December 02, 2013, 05:42:07 PM
More inane provincial ideas: PQ wants to limit the discounts on books.  (http://pq.org/nouvelle/prix-de-vente-des-livres-neufs-imprimes-et-numeriq/)


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: DC Al Fine on December 02, 2013, 05:53:42 PM
The Parti Quebecois: F[inks] economics, f[inks] the anglos, and f[inks] the foreigners.


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: RogueBeaver on December 02, 2013, 06:13:06 PM
Speaking of that, Duceppe has a mixed view of the charter. Some of it goes too far, other parts not far enough (http://www.lapresse.ca/actualites/politique/politique-canadienne/201312/02/01-4716826-duceppe-daccord-avec-lexpulsion-de-mourani.php?utm_categorieinterne=trafficdrivers&utm_contenuinterne=cyberpresse_BO2_quebec_canada_178_accueil_POS1). Remembering that everyone's fairly close together.


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: TheDeadFlagBlues on December 02, 2013, 06:18:46 PM
More inane provincial ideas: PQ wants to limit the discounts on books.  (http://pq.org/nouvelle/prix-de-vente-des-livres-neufs-imprimes-et-numeriq/)

lol


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: RogueBeaver on December 03, 2013, 12:31:56 PM
U de M and Sherbrooke reject the PQ's odious document. (http://www.ledevoir.com/societe/education/394219/des-universites-disent-non-a-la-charte)


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: RogueBeaver on December 03, 2013, 04:58:06 PM
Anyone catch the debate on Chong's PMB? I'm with Funke.


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: RogueBeaver on December 04, 2013, 03:14:54 PM
Yellow siren: Ivison says that Harper may resign after he returns from Israel, though the PMO denies this obviously.  (http://fullcomment.nationalpost.com/2013/12/04/john-ivison-as-pm-prepares-for-israel-trip-speculation-abounds-will-he-resign-after-he-returns/)Rather strangely, apparently Kenney does not want the leadership and would play kingmaker instead. Which goes against everything else I've ever read or thought I knew about the party's leadership. All of this is to be believed if seen, like the often-rumoured Flaherty departure. Personally I think Harper should lead as long as the party has confidence in him and we still have a majority. This would make for an interesting leadership race if Kenney indeed stays out: which Blue would step up?


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: Hatman 🍁 on December 04, 2013, 03:19:37 PM
Anyone catch the debate on Chong's PMB? I'm with Funke.

Indeed. #teamfunke

Never heard of that site before, though- but since I'm FB friends with her, I saw it posted on my feed.


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: RogueBeaver on December 04, 2013, 03:27:52 PM
What do you think of the Tory leadership speculation? I guess Baird would have to reconsider. Raitt maybe?


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: DC Al Fine on December 04, 2013, 04:50:25 PM
What do you think of the Tory leadership speculation? I guess Baird would have to reconsider. Raitt maybe?

Some of the also-rans might throw their names in if it isn't a coronation. Alexander is the prime example.


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: RogueBeaver on December 04, 2013, 05:27:46 PM
What do you think of the Tory leadership speculation? I guess Baird would have to reconsider. Raitt maybe?

Some of the also-rans might throw their names in if it isn't a coronation. Alexander is the prime example.

You think Alexander would run? Plus Bernier and Moore.


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: DC Al Fine on December 04, 2013, 05:41:32 PM
What do you think of the Tory leadership speculation? I guess Baird would have to reconsider. Raitt maybe?

Some of the also-rans might throw their names in if it isn't a coronation. Alexander is the prime example.

You think Alexander would run? Plus Bernier and Moore.

Well I didn't mean him specifically, I just meant that people who wouldn't have had a chance against Kenney will have to reconsider. Alexander running against Kenney is battling it out with Moore, Prentice etc for 2nd. Not much incentive to run. The same race without Kenney at least gives him a fighting chance of breaking away from the pack in a crowded race.


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: Smid on December 04, 2013, 05:59:00 PM
I have a lot of respect for Alexander. The only thing is, he is not in a safe seat by any stretch of the imagination. His seat was divided into Ajax, and the new Pickering-Uxbridge (including bits of Pickering-Scarborough East and Durham), and the safer of the two seats, Pickering-Uxbridge is still only 46% Conservative, according to pollmaps.ca (http://fed2013.pollmaps.ca/index.asp). Ajax is slightly less safe, but if he takes P-U, than the existing P-SE MP would likely challenge, whereas they could both have seats if he runs in Ajax. Regardless, they are not safe and he'd have to work to hold it - which would reduce the time he can spend campaigning across the country.


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: RogueBeaver on December 04, 2013, 06:21:36 PM
Those current numbers are awful for we Tories in Ontario, though of course a lot will change in 18 months. The biggest names for the next leadership contest are all secure. It seems strange that Kenney, who has been pegged the heir apparent for so long, wouldn't run. Were it anyone but Ivison I wouldn't buy it for a second.


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: Hatman 🍁 on December 04, 2013, 07:32:44 PM
Wait, is Harper stepping down or something?

Kenney is seen as the frontrunner in any potential leadership, right?  I think someone like Trudeau would destroy him in popularity. I can think of a few better candidates who would make better leaders. His reputation may be tarnished a bit, but Peter McKay would be the best challenger to Trudeau's charisma.


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: RogueBeaver on December 04, 2013, 07:50:34 PM
Surely you troll? Kenney would destroy Trudeau in any substantive debate, as always happens in the House.


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: Hatman 🍁 on December 04, 2013, 08:04:10 PM
Surely you troll? Kenney would destroy Trudeau in any substantive debate, as always happens in the House.

Didn't say Kenney would not beat Trudeau in a debate, as he probably would. He just doesn't have that 'je ne sais quoi' that Trudeau has. There's a reason he's leading in the polls, and it is very much to the chagrin of his opponents like you and I.


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: Hash on December 04, 2013, 08:09:39 PM
Are we referring to this article (http://fullcomment.nationalpost.com/2013/12/04/john-ivison-as-pm-prepares-for-israel-trip-speculation-abounds-will-he-resign-after-he-returns/)? I stay away from the National Post as a rule (and I haven't read Canadian news in weeks) so I hadn't seen it. I'll believe it when I see it.


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: Hatman 🍁 on December 04, 2013, 08:16:20 PM
Wow. That would be very interesting indeed.

That article raises a good point, that Kenney is pro-life, and that might hurt him, at least in a general. Also, what about those rumours about his personal life.


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: RogueBeaver on December 04, 2013, 08:26:11 PM
Kenney knows how to handle social issues and wouldn't legislate. As for personal life... his socon appeal suggests that won't be an issue either.


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: Hatman 🍁 on December 04, 2013, 08:34:59 PM
Kenney knows how to handle social issues and wouldn't legislate. As for personal life... his socon appeal suggests that won't be an issue either.

Doesn't matter. It would be great attack ad fodder. The Liberals have done it before.


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: RogueBeaver on December 04, 2013, 08:41:57 PM
We don't lack in rapid response or air war capability now, and Kenney ain't Day. I'm not worried about Harper or Kenney's prospects against Trudeau.


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: DC Al Fine on December 04, 2013, 09:43:04 PM
We don't lack in rapid response or air war capability now, and Kenney ain't Day. I'm not worried about Harper or Kenney's prospects against Trudeau.

I'd put it down as a concern, but not a deal breaker. Kenney doesn't have the same history of pontificating on this sort of thing. He's been pretty quiet about AFAIK.


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: RogueBeaver on December 04, 2013, 09:49:28 PM
We don't lack in rapid response or air war capability now, and Kenney ain't Day. I'm not worried about Harper or Kenney's prospects against Trudeau.

I'd put it down as a concern, but not a deal breaker. Kenney doesn't have the same history of pontificating on this sort of thing. He's been pretty quiet about AFAIK.

Yeah, I mean Harper's old opposition speeches give us insight into what he really believes, but those haven't been an issue since the time they were made. Usually a Red friend of mine mentions an old CNN clip from 1990 when Kenney was a pro-life activist. What matters is when you mention or get mentioned in connection with a social issue and aren't prepared for rapid response, then get beaten to a pulp by the MSM. Like Hudak and the pro-life petition. Kenney would swat them down without a blink.


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: DC Al Fine on December 04, 2013, 10:22:32 PM
Liberal MLA Joachim Stroink is apologizing for posing with a guy wearing black face. Apparently it's a Dutch Christmas tradition. The local NDP youth is up in arms about it, which I would consider a positive because most of them aren't nearly as well balanced as Hatman or lilTommy.


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: Hatman 🍁 on December 04, 2013, 11:29:20 PM
Liberal MLA Joachim Stroink is apologizing for posing with a guy wearing black face. Apparently it's a Dutch Christmas tradition. The local NDP youth is up in arms about it, which I would consider a positive because most of them aren't nearly as well balanced as Hatman or lilTommy.

It's offensive, but only due to it's association with minstrel shows, etc. The NDP in the riding are just playing the political game. But then again, you wouldn't see Peter Stoffer with Black Peter, and he's Dutch too.


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: DC Al Fine on December 04, 2013, 11:40:18 PM
Liberal MLA Joachim Stroink is apologizing for posing with a guy wearing black face. Apparently it's a Dutch Christmas tradition. The local NDP youth is up in arms about it, which I would consider a positive because most of them aren't nearly as well balanced as Hatman or lilTommy.

It's offensive, but only due to it's association with minstrel shows, etc. The NDP in the riding are just playing the political game. But then again, you wouldn't see Peter Stoffer with Black Peter, and he's Dutch too.

Yeah, I agree with you there.

Mildly peeved at CBC for posting a bunch of tweets about it, and a significant minority of them are from NDP activists including the candidate in my riding last election :P I guess we can't expect some random reporter to know "the scene" but it's hardly a "man on the street" view.

As for the unbalanced NDP remark, that was more about an ongoing feud I have with one person.


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: DC Al Fine on December 05, 2013, 01:17:41 PM
In other news, CRA released their quarterly Atlantic Canada polls

()

()

()

Nova Scotia
Liberal: 58%
PC: 19%
NDP: 19%

NS is in the honeymoon period still. The other polls are more interesting. Trudeau ought to sweep Atlantic Canada. Also, look at those PEI numbers. 3rd place for the Tories.


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: MaxQue on December 05, 2013, 01:26:36 PM
Didn't PEI PC had severe issues, like the PC caucus refusing to recognise the new PC leader?


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: Hatman 🍁 on December 05, 2013, 01:40:30 PM
Back to third in NB & NL again :(


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: Qavvavak on December 06, 2013, 12:34:52 AM
I glad NB NDP wont gains because he against First Nations protesting!
Dominic must resigns or he will be loser.........


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: DC Al Fine on December 06, 2013, 09:27:08 AM
I glad NB NDP wont gains because he against First Nations protesting!
Dominic must resigns or he will be loser.........

NDP got 10% of the vote last time. They'll make gains.

Didn't PEI PC had severe issues, like the PC caucus refusing to recognise the new PC leader?

They got a new leader after losing power in 2007. They expected to lose more seats in 2011, but actually picked up a few. Then they booted their leader :P


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: RogueBeaver on December 06, 2013, 07:20:01 PM
Soudas could be returning as the CPC's executive director. We'll find out very soon. (http://www.cbc.ca/news/politics/dimitri-soudas-touted-for-senior-job-with-conservatives-1.2454559)


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: RogueBeaver on December 07, 2013, 11:12:23 AM
Pop goes the Toronto CW: Mulcair is our [Quebec's] most popular politician at 60/10 while Trudeau's the most polarizing at 44/32. (http://www.ledevoir.com/politique/quebec/394666/mulcair-favori-des-quebecois?utm_source=infolettre-2013-12-07&utm_medium=email&utm_campaign=infolettre-quotidienne)

Soudas has returned. (http://www.cbc.ca/news/politics/dimitri-soudas-gets-senior-job-with-conservatives-1.2454559)

An amusing spat between Harper and Williams in '06, involving public F-bombs. (http://thechronicleherald.ca/novascotia/1172392-williams-harper-may-have-used-bad-words) Metaphor for federal-provincial relations, methinks.


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: DC Al Fine on December 07, 2013, 10:34:53 PM
The Tories turn 10 today.


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: RogueBeaver on December 07, 2013, 10:44:16 PM
For some reason I thought it was the 12th. At any rate a happy anniversary for me. In March Harper will enter his second decade as leader. Even happier anniversary would be March 2016, if we make it there with our majority intact. Rather amazing how quickly everything came together, given early predictions that Martin would win an '84-style earthquake. Didn't quite work out that way.


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: Hatman 🍁 on December 08, 2013, 01:41:54 PM
I glad NB NDP wont gains because he against First Nations protesting!
Dominic must resigns or he will be loser.........

Source?


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: MaxQue on December 08, 2013, 02:59:42 PM
I glad NB NDP wont gains because he against First Nations protesting!
Dominic must resigns or he will be loser.........

Source?

Well, NB NDP position is than road blockades aren't acceptable in a society accepting the role of law, which is honestly the position taken by the very majority of the population (and is, in my region of Abitibi, is a big cause of racism, because White people are saying than a White doing that would go in jail very quickly and than so, First Nations are violating laws with consequences).


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: Qavvavak on December 08, 2013, 04:56:54 PM
source here

Don’t negotiate ‘til threats end
EDITORIAL Telegraph-Journal
31 Oct 2013

It appears the leaders of Elsipogtog First Nation have learned nothing from the riot that occurred two weeks ago. While publicly calling for negotiations, the First Nation privately has been circulating a call to "protectors and stewards" to enforce the band's claim that all Crown lands in New Brunswick belong to First Nations. The reserve also claims to have "evicted" SWN Resources.

It was self-styled "protectors and stewards," aka "warriors," who brought guns and homemade fragmentation grenades to the band's protest camp near Rexton and firebombed six police vehicles, while the protesters' attempted "eviction" of SWN involved blockading support staff in a compound and threatening to kill them. If such events had occurred on the other side of the Canada-U.S. border, or in the United Kingdom, we have no doubt they would have been treated by federal and state authorities as what they transparently are: acts of domestic terrorism.

Elsipogtog's support for aggressive and confrontational tactics threatens to undermine any spirit of co-operation that still exists between provincial legislators and New Brunswick's First Nations. It demands a response at two levels: from the Assembly of First Nations Chiefs in New Brunswick, and from Premier David Alward.

We do not presume to guess what the chiefs' response will be, but they must realize that public support for settling Aboriginal land claims and other outstanding issues ebbs away with each act of obstruction and violence that is committed on behalf of First Nations. It doesn't matter how many Hollywood celebrities throw their support behind Elsipogtog's cause, or how many commentaries The Guardian (U.K.) publishes purporting to understand the situation and expressing solidarity; the people who have to live in the atmosphere of threat that Elsipogtog's "warriors" are creating all live and vote here, and it is these hundreds of thousands of voters who will determine the response of public institutions.

In his negotiations with Elsipogtog, Premier David Alward has been accommodating to the point of seeming ineffectual. While we believe his interest in finding negotiated solutions to the First Nations' problems is sincere, we also believe his government has a duty to put public safety first. Accordingly, we ask the provincial government to formally adopt the policy position proposed by NDP Leader Dominic Cardy two weeks ago, when protesters at Elispogtog car-jacked three vehicles belonging to national media organizations.

That position, simply stated, is that provincial legislators will not participate in any negotiations with First Nations until all illegal activity and acts of intimidation cease.

It is time for the government, and all political parties in this province, to signal clearly that militancy has no place in government-to-government negotiations. First Nations activists cannot expect anyone to respect their legal arguments if they themselves display contempt for the rule and institutions of civil law.

and another

https://www.facebook.com/photo.php?fbid=588813444483780&set=a.275630472468747.72257.173562206008908&type=1&ref=nf


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: MaxQue on December 08, 2013, 05:47:13 PM
I don't any problems with saying than government shouldn't negociate with people firebombing and stealing cars. First Nations only harm their integration within society by supporting people which are doing grave violation of laws.


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: RogueBeaver on December 08, 2013, 07:52:02 PM
Unintentionally hilarious TV moment today: Calandra saying he's always wanted to be PM.


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: RogueBeaver on December 08, 2013, 08:16:24 PM
On a much more serious note, here's an interview with Monique Lépine (http://www.lactualite.com/societe/entrevue-avec-la-15e-victime-de-polytechnique-monique-lepine/).


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: Hatman 🍁 on December 09, 2013, 12:36:43 AM
Rumour mill suggests my former boss Bruce Hyer will be joining the Greens on Friday. I think he'd have been better off staying as an Indy.

No surprise really. There are a lot of similarities between Hyer and Elizabeth May.


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: Hatman 🍁 on December 09, 2013, 12:41:14 AM
I glad NB NDP wont gains because he against First Nations protesting!
Dominic must resigns or he will be loser.........

Source?

Well, NB NDP position is than road blockades aren't acceptable in a society accepting the role of law, which is honestly the position taken by the very majority of the population (and is, in my region of Abitibi, is a big cause of racism, because White people are saying than a White doing that would go in jail very quickly and than so, First Nations are violating laws with consequences).

I wouldn't expect the NDP to have a different opinion, to be honest. Of course, I do sympathisze with their struggles, and blockades can at least be non violent (in theory).

It's strange though, because didn't the former chief of that reserve in NB just run for the NDP in the last by-election in Kent?


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: RogueBeaver on December 09, 2013, 12:50:50 AM
Hyer: No real surprise, though I guess he loses in '15. In other Ontario news, Hudak should save the IR stuff for later and focus on economy/jobs.  (http://www.thestar.com/news/queenspark/2013/12/04/tim_hudak_targets_giveaways_to_government_workers.html)


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: MaxQue on December 09, 2013, 01:45:03 AM
I glad NB NDP wont gains because he against First Nations protesting!
Dominic must resigns or he will be loser.........

Source?

Well, NB NDP position is than road blockades aren't acceptable in a society accepting the role of law, which is honestly the position taken by the very majority of the population (and is, in my region of Abitibi, is a big cause of racism, because White people are saying than a White doing that would go in jail very quickly and than so, First Nations are violating laws with consequences).

I wouldn't expect the NDP to have a different opinion, to be honest. Of course, I do sympathisze with their struggles, and blockades can at least be non violent (in theory).

We had a peaceful one a few weeks ago in Lac-simon reservation, near here. Sure, it's wasn't really a blockage (a couple of people letting everyone it but Youth Protection Direction). Finally, the village elders, regional social services and some native women organisation as a mediator, seems wierd, but it worked. YPD got sensibilized to First Nations issues and the elders were explained than what they were asking (traditionnal adoption) couldn't by done by the YPD and than the law gave that power to a First Nations institution than First Nations didn't created yet.


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: Smid on December 09, 2013, 06:03:45 PM
So I understand there was a provincial reshuffle in Alberta?


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: Njall on December 09, 2013, 07:07:43 PM
So I understand there was a provincial reshuffle in Alberta?

Yup.  http://www.cbc.ca/m/touch/canada/edmonton/story/1.2454624 (http://www.cbc.ca/m/touch/canada/edmonton/story/1.2454624)

The notable changes are:
-Dave Hancock replacing Thomas Lukaszuk as Deputy Premier and Minister of Innovation and Advanced Education
-Lukaszuk is now Minister of Jobs, Skills, Training, and Labour
-Manmeet Bhullar (Service Alberta) replaces Hancock as Minister of Human Services
-Doug Griffiths (Municipal Affairs) replaces Bhullar as Minister of Service Alberta
-Ken Hughes (Energy) replaces Griffiths as Minister of Municipal Affairs
-Diana McQueen (Environment) replaces Hughes as Minister of Energy
-Ric McIver (Transportation) and Wayne Drysdale (Infrastructure) switch jobs
-Fred Horne (Health), Doug Horner (Finance), Jonathan Denis (Justice), Jeff Johnston (Education), amongst others, stay where they are


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: Smid on December 09, 2013, 11:18:56 PM
Thanks for that, mate!


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: Hash on December 10, 2013, 08:59:34 AM
http://www.cbc.ca/news/politics/canada-s-claim-to-arctic-riches-includes-the-north-pole-1.2456773

They're taking the creepy "We are a Northern people" crap too far now.


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: Hash on December 10, 2013, 05:29:02 PM
http://www2.macleans.ca/2013/12/10/the-qp-clip-santa-claus-is-declared-a-canadian/

Silly season for the government, declares opposition to be anti-Canadian because they 'deny' Santa Claus is a Canadian citizen.


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: RogueBeaver on December 10, 2013, 05:43:19 PM
Caught a bit of QP on Twitter. Unsurprisingly, Calandra's the author of that Santa thing. I honestly don't know what Harper saw in him. Or in DDM for that matter, but that's another story.


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: RogueBeaver on December 10, 2013, 06:09:09 PM
Parliament adjourned till Jan. 27. Should I start a new thread in the new year or wait for a mod to close this one? We're closing in on 2500 after all.


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: True Federalist (진정한 연방 주의자) on December 10, 2013, 06:37:10 PM
Start a thread in the new year.  This one's getting a little long and whether it is true or not, long threads are alleged to be a performance bottleneck.


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: Hatman 🍁 on December 10, 2013, 11:48:46 PM
I'm against closing the thread FTR.


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: RogueBeaver on December 10, 2013, 11:57:21 PM
Not my first choice either. We kept this one going for 2 years, so that's something. I'm hesitant to call it CGD II, which I'd like to save for the 42nd Parliament. But I'll probably do so nonetheless. Hopefully the next one lasts till the election.

Some QP stats: Mulcair attended 20, Harper 15, Trudeau 13. IIRC there were either 33 or 36 this sitting.


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: Hatman 🍁 on December 11, 2013, 12:01:06 AM
lol Trudeau.

I know, I know. Canadians don't care about QP...


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: RogueBeaver on December 11, 2013, 12:10:03 AM
Given his "performance" there, no wonder his response was the usual "more important to meet ordinary Canadians" spin. Speaking of QP, backup PM duty should be delegated to the Cabinet rather than the hapless Calandra. I was immensely relieved when Moore and Poilievre were stickhandling one QP last week.

As for who "won" the year politically, I'd say Mulcair federally and Christy Clark provincially.


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: Hatman 🍁 on December 11, 2013, 12:19:37 AM
How did Mulcair "win"? By remaining relevant? Trudeau is the year's winner. Remaining popular despite being hapless and unprepared.


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: MaxQue on December 11, 2013, 05:45:55 PM
Quebec government will create 4 supervised injection centers in Montreal. I suppose than Harper won't be happy, but given the previous court rulings, they can't do much about it.

Also, Canada government decided to destroy postal service as we know and force people to go at distant boxes to get mail. Hopefully court cases will delay things until 2015 elections and than the next government fire their incompetent and overpaid CEO.


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: Holmes on December 11, 2013, 11:26:45 PM
How did Mulcair "win"? By remaining relevant? Trudeau is the year's winner. Remaining popular despite being hapless and unprepared.

He's basically a deer in the headlights. If he's still hapless and unprepared come election time, his opponents (save May) will eat him up. Mulcair and Harper (if he's still around) are pros at this stuff, Trudeau is a child.


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: MaxQue on December 11, 2013, 11:29:11 PM
Let's add than the Canada Post decision is a violent attack on small businesses, which still mostly use mail for their billing.


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: Hatman 🍁 on December 11, 2013, 11:53:47 PM
Quebec government will create 4 supervised injection centers in Montreal. I suppose than Harper won't be happy, but given the previous court rulings, they can't do much about it.


The PQ may yet warm on me.


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: MaxQue on December 12, 2013, 12:22:31 AM
Quebec government will create 4 supervised injection centers in Montreal. I suppose than Harper won't be happy, but given the previous court rulings, they can't do much about it.


The PQ may yet warm on me.

Every time I think that, they ramble more about the "values charter". Talking of that, I'm still undecided about my vote next election (most probably PQ or QS, through). I know than those are independantist parties, but I can't bring myself to vote for Liberals. Not yet. They need to spend more time in opposition, purge the former corruped establishment and renew their MNA team.


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: DC Al Fine on December 12, 2013, 09:44:23 AM
Also, Canada government decided to destroy postal service as we know and force people to go at distant boxes to get mail. Hopefully court cases will delay things until 2015 elections and than the next government fire their incompetent and overpaid CEO.

I've been enduring this savagery for years. God help us all ::)


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: RogueBeaver on December 12, 2013, 11:10:59 PM
Hugh Segal will retire next summer. (http://www.cbc.ca/news/politics/hugh-segal-tory-senator-to-retire-for-massey-college-job-1.2461832) One of the best senators, even if I strongly disagree with him on many issues. Hopefully a Blue replacement.


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: Hatman 🍁 on December 12, 2013, 11:26:09 PM
Quebec government will create 4 supervised injection centers in Montreal. I suppose than Harper won't be happy, but given the previous court rulings, they can't do much about it.


The PQ may yet warm on me.

Every time I think that, they ramble more about the "values charter". Talking of that, I'm still undecided about my vote next election (most probably PQ or QS, through). I know than those are independantist parties, but I can't bring myself to vote for Liberals. Not yet. They need to spend more time in opposition, purge the former corruped establishment and renew their MNA team.

I know you've criticized QS in the past, but they are way better than the PQ. The values charter has made me lose any shred of sympathy I had for that party.

If I lived in Quebec, I'd vote UCQ where I could, and then either PVQ or QS. I've considered living in Hull in the past (cheaper rent), but could never bring myself to do so.


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: RogueBeaver on December 12, 2013, 11:29:33 PM
QC: At least you guys have options. I don't and never will. :P


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: Hatman 🍁 on December 12, 2013, 11:36:54 PM
You have options too, and are probably not much more foul to you as our options are to us! (There's a Conservative party, there's CAQ, and there's the Liberals too. All parties on the centre-right)

Speaking of Quebec, a federal poll was done in each of Montreal's new ridings: http://www.mainstreettechnologies.ca/mainstreet/wp-content/uploads/2013/12/Federal-Voting-Intention-in-Montreal.pdf

Liberals would win 13; BQ 3 and the NDP 2 :(


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: MaxQue on December 12, 2013, 11:48:31 PM
Quebec government will create 4 supervised injection centers in Montreal. I suppose than Harper won't be happy, but given the previous court rulings, they can't do much about it.


The PQ may yet warm on me.

Every time I think that, they ramble more about the "values charter". Talking of that, I'm still undecided about my vote next election (most probably PQ or QS, through). I know than those are independantist parties, but I can't bring myself to vote for Liberals. Not yet. They need to spend more time in opposition, purge the former corruped establishment and renew their MNA team.

I know you've criticized QS in the past, but they are way better than the PQ. The values charter has made me lose any shred of sympathy I had for that party.

If I lived in Quebec, I'd vote UCQ where I could, and then either PVQ or QS. I've considered living in Hull in the past (cheaper rent), but could never bring myself to do so.

But I live in a swing riding and I don't want a Liberal MNA.

EDIT: Also, QS in my riding is a bit unsavory, the local organisation was created by people who left PQ when a Native candidate was selected for 2007 election, under the pretext he was too young and this was an insult to the older members.

Then, again will depend of the campaign and/or the candidates.


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: Hatman 🍁 on December 12, 2013, 11:59:47 PM
Oh. I didn't realize you were a "strategic voter".

The way I see it is, you will never cast the deciding vote, so you might as well vote your conscience. Plus, if you're political geography nerds like us, you can check out how your vote affected the results in your polling division :D 


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: RogueBeaver on December 13, 2013, 12:02:58 AM
In federal news, Clement is gearing up for another round with PSAC.  (http://fullcomment.nationalpost.com/2013/12/12/john-ivison-ottawa-public-servants-on-course-for-old-style-labour-relations-clash/) 


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: DC Al Fine on December 13, 2013, 10:41:25 AM
You have options too, and are probably not much more foul to you as our options are to us! (There's a Conservative party, there's CAQ, and there's the Liberals too. All parties on the centre-right)

Well the problem for the Anglo right wingers (and Hatman to a lesser extent) is that we're products of a different system. It's like taking a socially conservative CSU voter and telling him to pick between the GOP & Democrats. Nothing quite fits.


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: Hatman 🍁 on December 13, 2013, 12:50:34 PM
I think the Quebec Conservative Party would be a good fit for RB, but he may be unwilling to vote for a fringe party. Better to vote for a fringe party than no party in my opinion. That's why I support the UCQ in Quebec.

In other news, Bruce has indeed joined the dark side :(  Only a matter of time, though.


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: RogueBeaver on December 13, 2013, 01:12:16 PM
So what does everyone think of Wynne's plan to run on a tax hike? I'll give her points for honesty, nothing more. Also, Duncan thinks OPG should be privatized (http://fullcomment.nationalpost.com/2013/12/13/kelly-mcparland-things-must-be-bad-when-liberals-see-a-tax-hike-as-their-best-bet-for-re-election/?utm_source=dlvr.it&utm_medium=twitter). "Bipartisan" imprimatur if Hudak wins and wants to do that.


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: RogueBeaver on December 13, 2013, 01:33:22 PM
Strangler crony Jacques Corriveau has been charged with fraud, forgery and laundering proceeds of crime. (http://www.theglobeandmail.com/news/politics/corriveau-charged-for-role-in-sponsorship-scandal/article15944404/) Adscam lives! Though due to his age he'll probably get a minimal sentence.


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: DC Al Fine on December 13, 2013, 02:49:40 PM
I think the Quebec Conservative Party would be a good fit for RB, but he may be unwilling to vote for a fringe party. Better to vote for a fringe party than no party in my opinion. That's why I support the UCQ in Quebec.

I agree, but I think the main issue is being able to vote for a fringe party. There's the conservatives and UCQ only ran like 20 candidates each last time. Even if you like them, you still have to choose who to support if you live in one of the other 100 ridings.

I'm the same way. I vote CHP when I get the opportunity, but I'm a Tory voter because that's how I'll vote most of the time.


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: Hatman 🍁 on December 13, 2013, 03:16:10 PM
I think the Quebec Conservative Party would be a good fit for RB, but he may be unwilling to vote for a fringe party. Better to vote for a fringe party than no party in my opinion. That's why I support the UCQ in Quebec.

I agree, but I think the main issue is being able to vote for a fringe party. There's the conservatives and UCQ only ran like 20 candidates each last time. Even if you like them, you still have to choose who to support if you live in one of the other 100 ridings.

I'm the same way. I vote CHP when I get the opportunity, but I'm a Tory voter because that's how I'll vote most of the time.

True.

I have a pro-life friend who claims he'd vote NDP if they were anti-abortion (lol), but because they don't he'd vote CHP. Except, I don't think they've ever run in his district. Last election he spoiled his ballot.

 


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: RogueBeaver on December 13, 2013, 10:34:59 PM
Whoa: Flaherty confronted Kenney after Kenney's Ford comments and it almost got physical. (http://www.cbc.ca/news/politics/kenney-s-rob-ford-comment-sparked-profane-rebuke-from-flaherty-1.2463984) Flaherty told Kenney to STFU about Ford and Kenney responded in kind. GTA MPs are pissed that Kenney spoke up on Ford, thought he should've MHOB.


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: Hatman 🍁 on December 14, 2013, 12:08:48 AM
Makes you wonder how credible Flaherty is.


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: DC Al Fine on December 14, 2013, 10:13:49 AM
I think the Quebec Conservative Party would be a good fit for RB, but he may be unwilling to vote for a fringe party. Better to vote for a fringe party than no party in my opinion. That's why I support the UCQ in Quebec.

I agree, but I think the main issue is being able to vote for a fringe party. There's the conservatives and UCQ only ran like 20 candidates each last time. Even if you like them, you still have to choose who to support if you live in one of the other 100 ridings.

I'm the same way. I vote CHP when I get the opportunity, but I'm a Tory voter because that's how I'll vote most of the time.

True.

I have a pro-life friend who claims he'd vote NDP if they were anti-abortion (lol), but because they don't he'd vote CHP. Except, I don't think they've ever run in his district. Last election he spoiled his ballot.

Yeah, doubt that will happen anytime soon lol. I was too young to vote by a few days in 2011, but I would've spoiled my ballot. I'd usually vote Tory but our guy was rabidly pro-choice for a Tory.

Makes you wonder how credible Flaherty is.

Indeed. This raises Kenney's standing in my eyes.


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: RogueBeaver on December 14, 2013, 11:02:53 AM
Flaherty's ties to the Fords is hardly a secret. Isn't like Flaherty has any leadership designs either.


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: Hatman 🍁 on December 14, 2013, 01:52:01 PM
Flaherty's ties to the Fords is hardly a secret. Isn't like Flaherty has any leadership designs either.

I know he has no leadership prospects, but the fact that he has ties with the Fords to begin with shows a lack of credibility.


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: RogueBeaver on December 14, 2013, 02:25:30 PM
Anyone watching CPAC's "The Campaigns" series? I just watched their '45 episode. Not much we didn't know already, but I didn't know about the anti-CCF VRWC in the business community and its 3 authors. Not that such a thing surprised me. Must've spent hundreds of millions in today's money. One name I was surprised didn't arise is Cockfield Brown. Probably a "respectable" ad agency didn't want to dirty their hands with that kind of thing, so they handled only touchy-feely stuff.


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: Hatman 🍁 on December 14, 2013, 03:09:23 PM
I don't get cable, so I had no idea such a series existed. I'm checking it out online now.


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: RogueBeaver on December 16, 2013, 10:11:26 AM
Paille will resign as BQ leader today for health reasons.  (http://www.cbc.ca/news/canada/montreal/daniel-paill%C3%A9-leader-of-bloc-qu%C3%A9b%C3%A9cois-to-resign-1.2465588)

Alas, I do not expect Harper to privatize a crown corporation on his watch.  (http://www.theglobeandmail.com/globe-debate/right-direction-wrong-goal-groom-canada-post-for-privatization/article15981439/#dashboard/follows/)Maybe a Tory successor, but Harper's too cautious for me to believe he will.


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: DC Al Fine on December 16, 2013, 04:22:55 PM
Paille will resign as BQ leader today for health reasons.  (http://www.cbc.ca/news/canada/montreal/daniel-paill%C3%A9-leader-of-bloc-qu%C3%A9b%C3%A9cois-to-resign-1.2465588)

I don't see them going out of caucus this time. Patry's a party jumper and Plamandon's at the end of his career. That basically leaves Fortin and Bellavance as leadership contenders.


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: RogueBeaver on December 16, 2013, 07:31:42 PM
Ivison on how the Cabinet's political discipline is breaking down. Flaherty and Kenney have a history and various ministers are catfighting. He paints this as preliminary leadership positioning. Meanwhile Harper remains untouched: they're all fighting beneath him, so to speak.  (http://fullcomment.nationalpost.com/2013/12/16/tory-mps-speak-out-as-pmo-loses-credibility-ministers-become-potential-leadership-rivals/?utm_source=dlvr.it&utm_medium=twitter)


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: RogueBeaver on December 18, 2013, 11:29:21 AM
Mourani will announce her intentions this afternoon. Not returning to the BQ.

Gagnon on how Quebec is an Orange-Red battle.  (http://www.theglobeandmail.com/globe-debate/liberals-ndp-duke-it-out-for-quebec/article16006836/)

Flaherty's health still poor. (http://o.canada.com/news/national/concerns-on-the-rise-over-flahertys-health/)

Mulcair believes the election will be next year a la Chretien and is at full readiness just in case. (http://www.lapresse.ca/actualites/politique/politique-canadienne/201312/17/01-4722006-le-npd-prevoit-un-scrutin-hatif.php?utm_categorieinterne=trafficdrivers&utm_contenuinterne=cyberpresse_B13b_politique-canadienne_560_section_POS2)


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: RogueBeaver on December 18, 2013, 01:17:05 PM
Mourani is now a federalist, but no word on which party she's joining. (https://www.dropbox.com/s/9vk38kel5eonpq4/Lettre%20Maria%20Mourani_18%20dec%202013.pdf) Ahuntsic was a 3-way in 2011, so she's probably finishing out her term and retiring.


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: RogueBeaver on December 18, 2013, 03:15:22 PM
Hebert is right as usual: NDP has an Ontario problem, not a Liberal problem. (http://www.thestar.com/news/canada/2013/12/18/mulcair_must_target_ontario_not_justin_trudeau_hbert.html)


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: RogueBeaver on December 18, 2013, 05:42:13 PM
Peter Julian will make an announcement about the BC NDP leadership tomorrow. Apparently rumor is that he's in, though Foucaulf can correct me if that's wrong.


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: Foucaulf on December 18, 2013, 07:00:09 PM
The problem is that I've been away from Vancouver for at least a year and I never had any party connections. My prediction has no authority, but here goes:

On balance he'll go for it. While diving through politics sites I found an interview in which he was "frustrated" about the last loss. And he has particular reason for doing so; he represents New Westminster, white but with significant Asian inflows, and he tries to engage with these immigration groups. To see the BCNDP get destroyed due to lack of connections within Asian communities, though only one factor, is troubling because it can be changed...

And yet I don't think he will. Either he's in or David Eby (who beat Clark in her riding last election), and Julian has enough of a career to not to waste time navigating the party elites backdoors. He already refused to run for federal leader in 2012 out of deference for Topp, in my opinion.


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: Hatman 🍁 on December 18, 2013, 11:47:21 PM
When I worked in his office six years ago, Peter Julian was learning Mandarin. Wonder how much he did learn.



Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: DC Al Fine on December 19, 2013, 09:21:30 AM
In a bizarre story, NDP MLA Lenore Zann filed a complaint that started a cyber-bullying investigation after someone tweeted a nude image of her from her acting days (http://news.nationalpost.com/2013/12/13/lenore-zann-actress-turned-nova-scotia-mla-launches-cyberbullying-investigation-after-teen-tweets-nude-image-of-her-from-the-l-word/). The complaint has since been dropped, but this is an example of how anti-bullying legislation can go too far. Getting filmed nude on HBO is a different kettle of fish than sexting pictures being circulated.


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: Hatman 🍁 on December 19, 2013, 09:24:36 AM
In a bizarre story, NDP MLA Lenore Zann filed a complaint that started a cyber-bullying investigation after someone tweeted a nude image of her from her acting days (http://news.nationalpost.com/2013/12/13/lenore-zann-actress-turned-nova-scotia-mla-launches-cyberbullying-investigation-after-teen-tweets-nude-image-of-her-from-the-l-word/). The complaint has since been dropped, but this is an example of how anti-bullying legislation can go too far. Getting filmed nude on HBO is a different kettle of fish than sexting pictures being circulated.

Wasn't this an issue in 2009?


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: DC Al Fine on December 19, 2013, 09:26:46 AM
In a bizarre story, NDP MLA Lenore Zann filed a complaint that started a cyber-bullying investigation after someone tweeted a nude image of her from her acting days (http://news.nationalpost.com/2013/12/13/lenore-zann-actress-turned-nova-scotia-mla-launches-cyberbullying-investigation-after-teen-tweets-nude-image-of-her-from-the-l-word/). The complaint has since been dropped, but this is an example of how anti-bullying legislation can go too far. Getting filmed nude on HBO is a different kettle of fish than sexting pictures being circulated.

Wasn't this an issue in 2009?

The tweeting is from this month. Not sure about the cyber-bullying bill or Ms. Zann's performance on HBO.


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: Hash on December 19, 2013, 09:30:54 AM
[...] though she didn't deserve to be bullied [...], Lenore Zann should have exercised self-restraint/personal responsibility.

-President Snowstalker (Rhodesia)


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: DC Al Fine on December 19, 2013, 09:35:36 AM
I look forward to the day Rob Ford/Mike Duffy use this legislation to prosecute someone who calls them a fatty and tweets a picture of them.


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: RogueBeaver on December 19, 2013, 12:23:32 PM
New Ekos out, Grits lead by 6 among all voters, 1 among LV.  (http://www.ipolitics.ca/2013/12/19/liberals-lead-conservatives-by-six-per-cent-nationally-ekos-poll-shows/)Flaherty and Kenney top the fundraising list. (http://www.cbc.ca/news/politics/jason-kenney-jim-flaherty-lead-conservative-mps-in-fundraising-1.2437089)


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: RogueBeaver on December 19, 2013, 04:28:01 PM
Julian and Donnelly aren't running for the BC NDP leadership.


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: RogueBeaver on December 19, 2013, 04:47:31 PM
Northern Gateway approved...with 209 (!!!) conditions. Over to you, BC Grits.


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: Foucaulf on December 19, 2013, 06:05:29 PM
Did I really call Julian's refusal? Good lord.

Of course pundits will spin this into a general "no one wants to be NDP leader!" narrative, but it's more subtle than it looks. The executive until the 2013 election was still ran by brass from the Clark days (Sihota, Dix) and for good reason. But it has been fifteen years, and people like the federal MPs are nowhere near that group. Julian was a community activist; Donnelly environmental. They're closer to Green MLA Andrew Weaver than anything.

In wake of the election, the 90s generation have a candidate; Mike Farnworth, who ran last election on a credibility platform. You're going to hear party members say he'll be coronated, but who knows? That the BCNDP has not been able to articulate a winning coalition means no one knows what the ideal candidate should be.


EDIT: Kennedy Stewart (MP Burnaby-Douglas) is still thinking. (http://www.theglobeandmail.com/news/british-columbia/fin-donnelly-peter-julian-join-list-of-ndp-mps-refusing-to-run-for-bc-leadership/article16057165/) But this is more out of necessity, since Burnaby North-Seymour next election will screw him hard.


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: RogueBeaver on December 19, 2013, 06:17:09 PM
Harper's year-end interview with Postmedia. (http://news.nationalpost.com/2013/12/19/anger-betrayal-disappointment-stephen-harper-denies-wright-is-simpy-giving-him-plausible-deniability/) His TV interviews will air later tonight, Global and TVA.

Here's the Global one. (http://globalnews.ca/news/1041537/harper-says-no-doubt-hell-stay-on-as-leader-in-2015-as-he-looks-to-make-changes-to-his-office-in-wake-of-senate-scandal/)


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: Hatman 🍁 on December 19, 2013, 07:58:34 PM
Did I really call Julian's refusal? Good lord.

Of course pundits will spin this into a general "no one wants to be NDP leader!" narrative, but it's more subtle than it looks. The executive until the 2013 election was still ran by brass from the Clark days (Sihota, Dix) and for good reason. But it has been fifteen years, and people like the federal MPs are nowhere near that group. Julian was a community activist; Donnelly environmental. They're closer to Green MLA Andrew Weaver than anything.

In wake of the election, the 90s generation have a candidate; Mike Farnworth, who ran last election on a credibility platform. You're going to hear party members say he'll be coronated, but who knows? That the BCNDP has not been able to articulate a winning coalition means no one knows what the ideal candidate should be.


EDIT: Kennedy Stewart (MP Burnaby-Douglas) is still thinking. (http://www.theglobeandmail.com/news/british-columbia/fin-donnelly-peter-julian-join-list-of-ndp-mps-refusing-to-run-for-bc-leadership/article16057165/) But this is more out of necessity, since Burnaby North-Seymour next election will screw him hard.

He doesn't have to run in Burnaby-Seymour, I think they can all shuffle around to have at least marginal ridings to defend.


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: Hatman 🍁 on December 19, 2013, 08:04:54 PM
New Ekos out, Grits lead by 6 among all voters, 1 among LV.  (http://www.ipolitics.ca/2013/12/19/liberals-lead-conservatives-by-six-per-cent-nationally-ekos-poll-shows/)Flaherty and Kenney top the fundraising list. (http://www.cbc.ca/news/politics/jason-kenney-jim-flaherty-lead-conservative-mps-in-fundraising-1.2437089)

Not everyone has ipolitics accounts, not even us EKOS employees. :P

Here is the full results: http://www.ekospolitics.com/index.php/2013/12/political-landscape-freezes-with-winter-cold-december-19-2013/

(No accolades, I didn't work on this one)


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: RogueBeaver on December 19, 2013, 08:07:32 PM
In theory, I'd like to see the reaction if Tories had a plurality of seats but not a plurality of votes. Not that the latter matters...


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: Hatman 🍁 on December 20, 2013, 10:43:05 AM
Supreme Court has unanimously ruled that prostitution laws are unconstitutional! (Despite a majority of the court being Harper appointees)

Good decision in my opinion.


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: RogueBeaver on December 20, 2013, 12:24:59 PM
Parliament will ban it in a way that complies with the ruling. Personally I don't have a strong opinion either way.

Here's the year-end At Issue.  (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=f47fiSeU0kM&feature=c4-overview&list=UUKjU3KzdbJE1EFcHVqXC3_g)



Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: MaxQue on December 20, 2013, 02:24:47 PM
Supreme Court has unanimously ruled that prostitution laws are unconstitutional! (Despite a majority of the court being Harper appointees)

Good decision in my opinion.

Well, it fits with the ultra-libertarian patterns of the Court. Prostitution is a very complicated issue, through, so I'll retain from commenting further.


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: RogueBeaver on December 23, 2013, 11:22:47 AM
Polling roundup (http://www.threehundredeight.com/2013/12/a-year-in-polling.html?spref=tw) for 2013, and Vito Rizzuto has died. (http://www.cbc.ca/news/canada/montreal/vito-rizzuto-montreal-mafia-s-teflon-don-dies-1.2474011)


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: Hash on December 23, 2013, 11:28:51 AM
So, when was the last year a non-Tory party led the average of all polls done in the year? 2004 or 2005?


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: RogueBeaver on December 23, 2013, 11:35:08 AM
2004 I'd guess, though probably not by much given the seesaw nature of that Parliament.


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: RogueBeaver on December 24, 2013, 07:11:06 PM
No, this is not The Onion. Worse than the perennial attempts to inject linguistic politics into hockey. (http://www.theglobeandmail.com/news/national/pq-releases-self-help-holiday-guide-to-defending-quebec-values-charter/article16099773/?cmpid=rss1&click=dlvr.it)


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: Peter the Lefty on December 24, 2013, 07:42:54 PM
No, this is not The Onion. Worse than the perennial attempts to inject linguistic politics into hockey. (http://www.theglobeandmail.com/news/national/pq-releases-self-help-holiday-guide-to-defending-quebec-values-charter/article16099773/?cmpid=rss1&click=dlvr.it)
Dear God.  Next time we have a "best joke party" poll, the PQ better be included. 

I feel so sorry for everyone who has to live in a province where these clowns are taken seriously.


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: True Federalist (진정한 연방 주의자) on December 24, 2013, 08:57:55 PM
No, this is not The Onion. Worse than the perennial attempts to inject linguistic politics into hockey. (http://www.theglobeandmail.com/news/national/pq-releases-self-help-holiday-guide-to-defending-quebec-values-charter/article16099773/?cmpid=rss1&click=dlvr.it)

Quote
Its cover is illustrated with a turkey.
  Does the French language not have the same negative connotations of idiocy with the turkey bird that English does.  I wouldn't think that they would want to suggest that Bill 60 is a turkey.


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: RogueBeaver on December 24, 2013, 09:09:13 PM
Following on their earlier poster.

()

Here's the guide. (http://www.ledevoir.com/documents/pdf/charte_partys_des_fetes.pdf)

On a related note, Marois said recently that the budget may not come down till April instead of the usual March. Confidence vote would be about a week afterwards. As with Ontario, expect the third party to be trigger shy until they aren't. Saves everyone the letdown.


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: MaxQue on December 25, 2013, 02:29:03 AM
No, this is not The Onion. Worse than the perennial attempts to inject linguistic politics into hockey. (http://www.theglobeandmail.com/news/national/pq-releases-self-help-holiday-guide-to-defending-quebec-values-charter/article16099773/?cmpid=rss1&click=dlvr.it)

Quote
Its cover is illustrated with a turkey.
  Does the French language not have the same negative connotations of idiocy with the turkey bird that English does.  I wouldn't think that they would want to suggest that Bill 60 is a turkey.

A turkey indeed have negative connatations, but, most likely, given the time of year, people will think of the food.


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: Hatman 🍁 on December 25, 2013, 03:51:24 PM
It's tradition in Canada to eat turkey on Christmas. It's removed enough from Thanksgiving (which is in early October) so as to not be repetitive.


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: RogueBeaver on December 27, 2013, 08:51:22 AM
NP is right about Harper's protectionist follies. (http://fullcomment.nationalpost.com/2013/12/27/national-post-editorial-board-an-all-dressed-slice-of-protectionism/) Meanwhile the MB NDP is tanking to quarter-century lows, even in Winnipeg. PCs lead 41/29. (http://www.winnipegfreepress.com/local/ndp-support-dwindling-poll-237459001.html) I doubt any OLP will be handcuffed before spring. (http://www.thestar.com/news/canada/2013/12/26/ongoing_opp_investigations_could_damage_provincial_liberals.html)


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: MaxQue on December 27, 2013, 09:02:07 AM
Oh, the perpetual noices from the free traders wanting to destroy Canadian agriculture on the altar of ideology. Sure, prices may be lower, but how much person will grow poorer because of it?


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: RogueBeaver on December 27, 2013, 09:08:42 AM
A few thousand farmers in a handful of what are for Tories safe or irrelevant ridings, as MHF pointed out in her paper. I don't really see the political risk for Harper.


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: RogueBeaver on December 27, 2013, 10:19:53 PM
Hebert's 5 to watch: Wynne, Marois, Harper, Kenney, Wright. (http://www.thestar.com/news/canada/2013/12/27/five_newsmakers_to_watch_in_2014_hbert.html) Maybe she should've swapped Wynne with Horwath, since Horwath will decide whether or not the OLP runs its full term.


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: RogueBeaver on December 28, 2013, 08:12:35 PM
Flanagan has a flippant blurb on Chong's bill, while also calling the Oz/NZ caucus leadership system "Third World antics." (http://m.theglobeandmail.com/globe-debate/headline/article16091195/?service=mobile) Ugh.

The author of PET's charter likes Marois'.  (http://www.radio-canada.ca/nouvelles/societe/2013/12/28/002-pere-charte-canadienne-droits-libertes-charte-valeur-quebecoise-laicite-roger-tasse.shtml)


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: Peter the Lefty on December 28, 2013, 08:31:54 PM
It's tradition in Canada to eat turkey on Christmas. It's removed enough from Thanksgiving (which is in early October) so as to not be repetitive.

Poor Canadian turkeys...


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: RogueBeaver on December 30, 2013, 12:51:35 PM
Interesting year-end # from Nanos (http://www.cbc.ca/news/politics/federal-conservatives-see-performance-rating-plunge-in-poll-1.2477348) and Ipsos.  (http://www.ctvnews.ca/politics/ctv-poll-fewer-canadians-believe-harper-government-working-well-this-year-1.1611288)



Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: Foucaulf on December 30, 2013, 01:52:11 PM
Refresh my memory, Roguebeaver; did any opposition party talk about corruption during the last election? I seem to remember a wave of pundits saying how the Liberals needed to stick to more bread-and-butter issues. The extent to which the Senate Scandal has hurt Harper is a good signal against this: it's not that Canadians don't care about the state of democracy, but that it should be framed in terms of trust.

Kind of surprised at the 45/55 numbers on Mulcair's handling of the economy. Of course, now that U.S. growth figures are surpassing Canada's, we're going to see some convergence.


I'll offer up two pieces of news: The gay pressure group in the Conservative Party (http://www.cbc.ca/news/politics/fabulous-blue-tent-showcases-gay-conservatives-power-1.2466057) and George Smitherman's husband found dead.  (http://www.cbc.ca/news/canada/toronto/christopher-peloso-husband-of-george-smitherman-found-dead-1.2478753) The second is lurid and hopefully bring up talk about mental health again. The first is typical, but I'll have to point out how they're all gay white males.


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: RogueBeaver on December 30, 2013, 03:02:14 PM
Corruption per se: don't think so. One thing that mystifies me is why the media hasn't really touched on Grit support for a carbon tax. Alas, they'll be reminded when the time comes.


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: RogueBeaver on December 30, 2013, 09:49:33 PM
Which province is more likely to vote next year: Ontario or Quebec? I'm rather skeptical that either third party will pull the trigger.


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: RogueBeaver on December 30, 2013, 10:46:43 PM
Speaking of which, more NDP minority talk at the Star. (http://www.thestar.com/news/queenspark/2013/12/30/ndp_leader_andrea_horwath_aims_to_be_ontarios_first_elected_female_premier.html) Wonder which side of Rorange they'll endorse when the time comes.


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: DC Al Fine on December 30, 2013, 11:34:15 PM
Which province is more likely to vote next year: Ontario or Quebec? I'm rather skeptical that either third party will pull the trigger.

Ontario. Legault would have to be suicidal to pull the trigger.


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: Hatman 🍁 on December 31, 2013, 12:18:20 PM
Ontario will definitely go. With all the talk about Quebec going in the Fall, isn't it likely they will go too?


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: RogueBeaver on December 31, 2013, 12:28:11 PM
Depends whether Legault sticks to his high-stakes demands or chickens out. Marois said the budget won't come down till late March. Between that and other things like the charter public hearings, a vote probably wouldn't happen till June. I'll predict that the PQ is reelected with either a strong minority or small majority, Ontario is a minority regardless of who wins. As usual, I'm pessimistic about Ontario after the past 2 campaigns.


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: Hatman 🍁 on December 31, 2013, 05:49:21 PM
I think the Liberals will win a majority in Quebec.


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: Holmes on December 31, 2013, 05:59:11 PM
Premier Horwath would be too good to be true, so of course it'll never happen.


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: RogueBeaver on December 31, 2013, 06:03:17 PM
Philippe-flop's awfully catchy, don't you think? :P

Year-end interviews with Trudeau (http://www.thestar.com/news/canada/2013/12/31/justin_trudeau_promises_full_reboot_of_liberal_party.html) and May. (http://www.thestar.com/news/canada/2013/12/31/green_leader_elizabeth_may_says_democracy_slipping_away.html) Worth noting the Grit open nominations system though I doubt anyone gets a high-profile challenge, as fun as that'd be to watch. Just as meaningless as replacing de jure with de facto appointments.


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: njwes on January 06, 2014, 04:50:20 PM
I have a question about the Bloc Qébécois. Wherever I've seen them referred to in any depth, they're always referred to as a left or center-left party. Is that true though? Or in reality do they act more as a big-tent party with the general idea of "Quebecness" (sure there's a better word) overriding left-right political differences?

It just always struck me that they must be the latter, or else they wouldn't have been able (in the past at least) to win such impressive victories in the province as a whole. Would those who would vote for Coalition Avenir Québec at the provincial level still vote for the BQ in the federal elections? (ignoring the 2011 federal, lolz)

Also--just a random thought--what party would a conservative nationalist in Quebec vote for? As in a conservative with a more traditionalist streak--not a free market conservative but let's say a traditional Catholic who wants more autonomy for Quebec? Would they feel comfortable voting for BQ? Of course, there may not be enough traditionalist Catholic sovereigntists in Quebec to justify the existence of this question :P


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: Hatman 🍁 on January 06, 2014, 08:13:42 PM
Hi.

First off, we've started a new thread, but I'll address your questions anyways.

The BQ is generally left of centre, because most sovereigntists are left of centre. There are some right wing sovereigntists, but not many. They are theoretically a big tent party.

I'm sure many BQ voters voted CAQ on the provincial level, although the strongest CAQ areas were also the strongest Conservative areas, so the Tories are obviously their main federal counterpart.

To answer your last question, why wouldn't a Quebec social conservative vote Conservative like anywhere else in the country? Or are you confusing the PQ (provincial) with the BQ (federal)? Provincially, a social conservative sovereigntist is a rare breed.  Not sure who they would vote for. I know RB abstains from voting, but he might be a federalist. He's been mum as to why he doesn't vote for CAQ, PLQ or the provincial conservatives (which are federalist, but a fringe party)


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: MaxQue on January 06, 2014, 08:17:51 PM
Well, the Bloc was more economically right-wing in the 90's and the outgoing leader was trying to return in the center, but now than he resigned, who knows what happens? But they are (or rather were) a big tent party, like PQ, for all Quebec nationalists, even right-wing ones. For them, independance is more important than other questions.

There is 2 types of CAQ voters. The suburban "soccer mom" families of Montreal suburbs, which clearly voted NDP federally the last time. Those aren't very ideological and they are soft nationalists. Current polling is suggesting than those voters will come back at PQ. The other type is in Quebec City area, which is voting NDP or Conservative.

For your third question, PQ, Liberals and CAQ are pretty at the same place on social issues, they are socially liberal (the Liberals are a little bit more conservative, but only a very little bit, so it doesn't matter). They are used to it and, as all parties think the same, this is never the subject of an election.

And the traditionnal Catholic is Francophone and sees Canadian multiculturalism as a threat to them and wants independance from the English and Protestant Canada. Traditionnal Catholics are very nationalist (but a minority in the independance movement).


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: njwes on January 07, 2014, 10:48:34 AM
Hatman and MaxQue thank you, very helpful!


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: Njall on January 07, 2014, 10:54:31 AM
Will Calgary finally be free of the embarrassment known as Rob Anders come 2015? (http://www.calgaryherald.com/news/politics/Former+finance+minister+Liepert+considers+challenging+Anders+Tory+nomination/9355122/story.html)


Title: Re: Canada General Discussion
Post by: DC Al Fine on January 07, 2014, 11:06:51 AM
Will Calgary finally be free of the embarrassment known as Rob Anders come 2015? (http://www.calgaryherald.com/news/politics/Former+finance+minister+Liepert+considers+challenging+Anders+Tory+nomination/9355122/story.html)

a) Doubtful, the dude is good at winning nomination races, plus he's something of a safety valve for the base.

b) There's a new Canada GD thread here (https://uselectionatlas.org/FORUM/index.php?topic=184917.25)