Harper defends need for costly, violent G8, G20 summits

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Harper defends need for costly, violent G8, G20 summits

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Canada AM: Prime Minister Harper on the G20

In an exclusive interview with Canada AM, Prime Minister Stephen Harper says he is satisfied with the results of the G20 summit and talks about what was achieved during the talks, while also saying Canada will meet the deficit reduction deadline by next year.

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Prime Minister Stephen Harper speaks with Canada AM in an exclusive interview on Sunday, June 27, 2010.

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CTV.ca News Staff

Date: Mon. Jun. 28 2010 8:20 PM ET

Prime Minister Stephen Harper says international summits are an irreplaceable tool that world leaders use to reach out to one another and accomplish major tasks of diplomacy.

Defending the need for hosting the costly G8 and G20 summits held in Ontario on the weekend, Harper told CTV's Canada AM they are necessary traditions that give leaders a chance to negotiate directly with the people who have the power to get things done.

"There is nothing that can replace getting together with somebody face-to-face, shaking their hand, talking to them, understanding their own pressures and concerns," he said during an exclusive interview in Toronto shortly before the wrap of the G20 summit.

"We all face similar pressures and stresses, and understanding that and understanding what makes other leaders tick is, I think in the end what makes the whole thing work, or not work," Harper added.

Harper also pointed to the months of work behind the scenes, which he said is key to ensuring that the people at the summit table are able to make progress in the short time they have to meet each year.

"We had public servants, political staff, working on meetings with their G20 counterparts regularly, intensively, all around the world over the last six months," he said.

But when it comes down to it, the leaders are the people who have to agree on the final communiqué, which the prime minister said leaves them accountable for what is accomplished.

"So in the end, the leaders' meeting is what makes everything else work," Harper said.

As the host of this year's G8 and G20 summits, Harper admitted he is likely to be hit with credit or criticism after they are completed.

"Ultimately in terms of the success or the failure of the conference, it's the host -- it's the chairman of the conference -- who has to go out and explain whether it has succeeded or failed on a certain issue. So, in that sense, there is more pressure on the host," he said.

"That said, I do have to say at the G8 historically, but particularly at the G20, I have been struck by the degree of cohesion and unity there really is in the room."

Furthermore, his foreign counterparts "wanted this to be successful as much as I did," which the prime minister said is a dynamic that needs to be maintained in future summits.

Comments are now closed for this story

Haley
said

People of Canada: The Government of Canada is pleased to announce the next G20 shall be held at 24 Sussex, Ottawa, Canada. Dress code: black face mask, black T, and black shorts only. Free Admissions. Sandwiches and Iced Tea will be served. BYOB.

Susanne
said

Hold the next summit on a cruise ship. Summits have a history of violence. There was total disregard for people who live in Toronto. Pregnant women who might find themselves in labor had to make alternate plans. People had to lose a few days pay. Business owner had to close. The damage and destruction . Appalling . However, we can afford over a billion dollars for maternal child care in the other part of the world, excuse Haitis debt. I hope that voters will remember this . However when given the alternative , this country is in a sorry state of affairs.

Rangerx
said

The 30 million in Pittsburg did not include labor cost as the have enough on the payroll either municipal or state, Their infrastucture, cameras, swat teams etc, have been in place for years. They just have to feed the leaders for a few days. Same goes for London and France. Canada is not a military stateand we needed to spend this much to bring us up to par after so many years of Liberal rule. At a billion we got of fairly cheap

Dale
said

Totally agree that shaking hands and face to face discussion is necessary. But why in a city where you need a $1 billion security budget? Go somewhere small and remote next time.

Will Whitehorse
said

Harper - The Billion Dollar BunglerWe spent more on the security for this meeting and it's aftermath than was pledged for his hackneyed Maternal Health Initiative that is crippled by being based on religous dogma rather than practical public policy. Harper and his band of incompetents are an embarrassment to Canada.

Lorraine
said

Amazing how most of the breakage in downtown Toronto was made by people from Qc ?
Now they claim that the police targetted ALL Qc plates ???

Well, if they did they had a mighty good reason to do so!

The mayor of Toronto, Mr. Miller should send the bill for all the downtown damages to the Qc's Premier Charest and the P.Q.'s leader madame Marois for MOST of the idiots breaking and burning things were "francophones from Qc".

Surprise surprise! Québécois still have their own "distinction" ie.: bunch of ingrates uncivilized idiots...

Niagara George
said

I was in Paris on New Years Eve a couple of years ago. According to newspaper estimates, more than a million people filled Champs d'Ellyses. We were all there to see the fireworks from the Eiffel Tower. Problems developed and there were no fireworks. Talk about a tense situation that could have turned ugly. As the crowd dispersed police, in the same gear they wore in Toronto, appeared all along the Champs. A billion well spent could have put 200 000 officers on duty for two full weeks. A fraction of that number would have been enough to put an end to any possibility of riots and the crowd would have gone home peacefully, just as they did in Paris.

sbergman
said

Tell you what ....instead of the Government paying for all the destruction caused by the "vandals", why don't we have the 'vandals pay for their actions.Make them pay, first by laying criminal charges and making them pay out of their pockets, and if they don't work, make them do as many hours of community service that it would take to pay for the damage.

Gee Gee
said

All levels of government are to blame, as are the various levels of policing. The rank and file can only do what their bosses tell them, so if they're told not to engage the black bloc, that's what they gotta do, otherwise face insubordination.I think there are plenty of police officers who are afraid to come forward who are also disgusted and concerned about the way things unfolded during G20.

Ryan T
said

The black bloc would have shown up if it was held in the north. They'd just ride on the same buses as their fellow police officers. I wonder if they took turns dressing up as black blockers. Saturday's thugs became the riot police on Sunday, and Sunday's black blockers were Saturday's protester-head-bashers.That's why the black bloc wears disguises. So their fellow officers back home won't recognize them on TV.

V Crass
said

Of course he's going to defend it, he bears the brunt of the blame for putting it in a major metropolitan location, crippling the small businesses in those areas, and making it easy for vandals to mix in with the crowd. Remember when election time comes around who did this to the city of toronto. I would also hold McGuinty accountable for the totalitarian Public Works designation. Miller's leaving anyway, so we can't show him our disgust at the polls.Harper should have put it in his beloved Calgary, and showcased the Stampede, in this case, the black bloc.

France and the G8
said

France on deck for next G8 meetingNext time around, they'll meet in France.Here's praying Stevie the wonder boy stays there ...

V in Calgary
said

Am I the only one who sees the irony in a summit that pledges to cut public spending dramatically, cost the Canadian public $1 Billion?Do these leaders not have e-mail? Can't they meet somewhere where $1 billion in security is not nessecary? Why do it in the most populus area in Canada? Did they not realize that having $1 Billion worth of police presence was going to cause conflict regardless if it was needed or not, afterall they had to prove their presence was nessecary.

KWgirl
said

I don't think anyone disputes the importance of these meetings however having it in Toronto where these anarchists can have a hay-day was clearly the wrong decision. Why not some remote area where there would be much less trouble for protesters to get into??

Save Canadians from dictators
said

Bill in BCsaid"Hi there, "Save Canadians from dictators"; maybe your should read what is written instead of jumping to conclusions. I am not a conservative nor did I imply that I was. So, back to remedial reading for you." Bill, it's Canada- not to worry about different perspectives-there is room for more than one (1).Instead of resorting to bullying you should try dialogue. Your comment does indeed remind me of how Mr. Harper behaves. Try to keep that big ego in check :) !

Raymond
said

"...Next time Calgary can host this thing.". Like last time (Kananaskis)? You lefties would've screamed bloody murder if Harper chose Alberta for the 2010 G8/G20. The accusations of western favoritism would never end.

Ian K
said

The idea that the G8/20 shouldn't have been held in Toronto is ridiculous - nothing short of caving in to blackmail by thugs and hooligans. Instead of accommodating these creeps we should pass a few laws to crack down on them hard with serious jail time, criminal records, bans on flying and restrictions on passports. At the very least they should be put on an international alert list that will allow other governments to keep them out of their countries.

Mar
said

I can't believe that people blame Harper for what a group of apparent "anarchists" did. Holding it in one of our great cities was meant to highlight the best of Canada, put the blame where it belongs, on those who decided to destroy property and commit violent acts. They did this, not Harper. It amazes me that our citizens can somehow pass blame to anyone else but those that actually did the act, that actually damaged the property. Hold those people accountable, its time us as citizens said "no" to those people and "not in my country", but instead we must blame someone else, blame our politicians, the police, etc. Wake up everyone, until we tell these violent individuals they have no place here instead of giving them an excuse for their actions, these things will keep happening. Why didn't all those citizens filming the violence yell "stop" instead of giving the hooligans a forum? The blame is on those doing the violence and condoning the violent, not on the PM or the other world leaders.

I support Rick Norlock in QW
said

Harper is a joke!

Chris Brittain
said

So their going to reduce the deficit in half by 2013?! What a joke. 'The global elites just stuck the bill for their drunken binge with the worldâ€™s poor' (Naomi Klein). How true. This goal is unattainable and social programs will suffer in the name of this ridiculous 'achievement'.That interview was the biggest puff piece I've seen since Mary Hart interviewed Tom Cruise on Entertainment tonight.With all the oohs and aaahs by the interviewer, I half expected her to go down on this clown.

Richard Collis
said

With the tecnology today all this could have been avoided by having their meetings by conference calls. The organizers of these conferance know that there will be trouble. So why bring violence to a choosen area when it could all be avoided. This whole G8 crap is nothing more than a complete waste of money and resources such as our police forces. The Black whatever they are, could be made un-employed by having these meetings via the internet.About time these decision makers got with the times . What the hell is the UN suppose to be for?

Bev from Sarnia
said

All I can say is that if I spent that kind of money needlessly, I would be FIRED!!! And we look like such fools to boot. Where was all the security (and I certainly don't blame the police) when they were needed for the vigilantes?? Sad, sad as can be. This money could have been put to much better use. Health care, seniors, food banks - oh and let's not forget the HST! More money we have to spend to support our partying government!! When are we going to stand up and say enough is enough????

peter in MB
said

Vancouver did a great job on the Olympics... Toronto this was your time to shine. But you BLEW IT!! To all you Harper hater posters on here as per your comments in the last few day, don’t be too surprised if any event as big as the G-20 is ever held in your despicable Spoiled Brat city ever again. Maybe we should have hosted the G-20 out west where people tend to be more opening minded and show the same level of respect for others rights as they want to be shown for there. The problem with All the Left Wing nut jobs in Toronto are they demand their rights wile at the same time they stomp over everyone elses rights whom disagrees with their own little special interest. P.S. before brining up the 1.3 billion cost issue for the 1000’s time again, that money went to your local businesses. Hotels, carters, restaurants and contractors, will stay in you city so stop your complaining.

Anne from Manitoba
said

Thankyou Stephen Harper ! Our country is in good hands. Great interview Bev.

JPC in Sask
said

There is no 'need' for 'violent' summits is there? - So why put this in the title of the report? Once again, the biased, anti-Harper media spin...

Dayton
said

Sure looks like a win,win for the stimulus spending. First we spent the 1 or so billion on the Summit creating several jobs. And thankfully the glass and auto body shops around Toronto will have some extra work. All the above is putting dollars in the economy!!!

Mike in Waterloo
said

As far as the Harper bashing goes, I just want to see him do something that is actually Conservative.When is that going to happen?I don't think it will. I don't think there are any Conservatives left in Canada. The recent flyer sent to my house by my local MP, touted three things that are socialist goals and they were bragging about them. That's whats passing for conservatism. Harper deserves all the bashing he's getting.

The Other Lowell in BC
said

This is money NOT WELL SPENT. It would be far cheaper for canada to have one on one talks with different countries who we have an interest in. For steve it is basically about his ego and photo ops. Lets save money for the tax payers and if you have to have the meetings have it in a more isolated place. Surely somewhere in the world there is an island with enough hotel rooms to accommodate people. Lets stop this madness once and for all.

Dan Laurin Windsor
said

I watched CPAC last night and heard the best suggestion. The G-20 should be held in New York City at the UN. The Security is all in place and the venue is plenty large enough. There is no reason at all for the G-20/G-8 to float around the world.

Worldview
said

To the people who say that this summit did put Canada as No1 on the world scene, I suggest you watch the other countries newscasts! I watched several TV news from France and Germany and the consensus was that this is the worst summit that was ever held anywhere and the most costly in history!Yes, it puts Canada as No1... No 1 in failure! Great job Mr Harper, I wonder why this does not surprise me from such a bad PM!

NS
said

Job well done, PM, police, org staff. Thankyou.

viral venus
said

I think the person who suggested holding these type of summits quietly in a naturally secured environment like a military base has the right idea. This would enable face to face meetings for world leaders but contain the ridiculous costs associatted with trying and utterly failing to secure a large city against the actions of a small handful of violent idiots while trampling the rights of everyone else caught in the middle. Time for a change - this big summit scenario no longer works.

CalgarySandy
said

Finally, every day Canadians have stood up to the bullies and cowards in government. I have been so ashamed of Canada in recent years, since Harper was elected. Protests in Calgary are rarely attended and the protesters are laughed at by the money grubbing and self-serving citizens of Alberta. I was proud to see so many people show up in Toronto. It gives me a modicum of hope that the whole country is not like Alberta. The police are about the same.

Does anyone remember when their parents told them that the police are there to protect us and you can go to them for help. You could always trust a cop. Ha ha ha ha I would tell a child to go to a junkie before I would tell them to go to the police now a days. The police are no longer gentlemen servants of society. They are armed and dangerous and have a sense of entitlement.

Joe
said

Thank you Sore Tax Payer, Jay, Duiker, and Gerald for repeating Canuck's comment - glad to see you are able to come up with your own contributions!

Norma K., Regina, SK
said

Appreciated the interview with Mr. Harper. I could not help but think that we are so fortunate to have such a good leader in this country. Being an economist himself he understands what is necessary to make economies work. We need him as our Prime Minister. I am grateful for his leadership. As a country, we are indeed blessed.

5th Generation Canadian
said

Daryl in Nova Scotia: The city was left largely unprotected during the Black Block violence. The millions and millions of dollars spent on security measures were obviously to ensure that the "great fence" protecting the VIPs inside of it was not breached; not to protect Toronto citizens, their businesses and properties. Case in point -- just look at the lack of police presence during Saturday's mayhem where even burning police cars didn't pull police from the "great fence."

ralph in saskabush
said

People are commenting on the cost of security at the summits in Toronto and Muskoka and how it was out of line. They mention Pittsburgh at 18 million and Englan at 30 million but from my understanding these two spots have not been out front will there actual costs, so taking a friggin pill people.

Kris D.
said

@Andrew - Calling anarchists "left-wing" doesn't make any sense. By definition, these thugs despise any policital organization and all forms of capitalist governance. To compare your fellow Canadians who lean to the left to these creeps is shameful. The Taliban are Conservative "right-wingers", so does that mean Conservatives are the same as them? Of course not.

Prof. Pye Chartt
said

@ Mrs Pye Cart: Again, I largely agree with you, my sweet, but disagree that McGuinty was "bought," given the actual legislative road to the implementation of the HST in Ontario, and the separate timing and logistics of the G20 summit. Hugs & kisses.

Ann
said

Thank you Mr. Harper....you put us back in the spotlight for the world to see. You did a great job and thank you for spending the amount of money you did for all that security.It is easy to see "why" you are the Prime Minister of this country and not the other whiners in the opposition parties. They would have spent a lot more.You are the "best" Prime Minister this country has ever had....keep up the good work. All we need now is an election.

Prof. Pye Chartt
said

@ back and to the left: Obviously, you're desperately trying to relate my constant pokes at your failing Liberal hero, Michael Ignatieff, to John's goofy comment. As you know, I've nailed Iggy six ways from Sunday on any number of political fronts...but, never have I questioned his "manhood." (That's just asinine, and doesn't even make political sense in context.) As per usual, you're reaching for a rope and getting it wound around your own neck. Try to hang me again another day, my bitter friend.

Mark from Calgary
said

Funnily enough, once again the private sector leads the way with video confrencing saving millions of dollars.

What a waste.

Martin
said

Thank you.Wake up Con lovers and Canada. Harper is getting what he wanted all along. He now has his excuse to cut Canada's already bare bones social programs, which he wanted to do all along. A quick recap: he cut taxes to corporations and the GST, and let his rubber arm be twisted into additional deficit spending (i.e. blame the Liberals/NDP). Now by hosting the G20 and setting the agenda, they put austerity (i.e. big government cuts) front and center. Just watch Medicare and arts funding take a big hit, while Military and corporations maintain priority. None of this is creative - just look at the US to see what Harper's vision for Canada looks like (including Medicare). I can't believe that even the Con lovers want a dysfunctional private medicare system, and war-priority military, and a generally non-arts/multicultural and just a mean-spirited Canada in their future. A this talk about a secret agenda years ago was absolutely right - just that know one could imagine the long term clandestine actions with incredible patience that the Harper Cons could implement to make it happen. One day, you will wake up and realize that the enlightened Canada you were once so proud of is just a shadow of its former self.

Keep defending the G20 Mr. Harper.
said

I love it when Mr. Harper defends this outrages cash outlay on the summit about nothing. I just goes to show how out of touch he is with the average Canadian. Time to give Stevie the boot.

Paul
said

Why did it cost so much you ask? Why did the police have to be given special powers of arrest that fly in the face of the constitution? Because we got a whole bunch of idiots burning cars and smashing windows. What if those idiots got to a countries leader and killed them??? That is how World War One started.

Keith in Brampton
said

Why Toronto? Because Harper has no MPs there and likely never will. Why not Ottawa? It's our capitol; it has plenty of security already, and they could use the Parliament buildings to meet (Harper prorogues for less reason than to make the buildings available to host foreign leaders)... Oh, I know! Because their families and coworkers LIVE there! Can't have THEM inconvenienced for the nation's good...

don.sheppard peterborough
said

Canada doesn't have a billion dollars but the gov. spent it on security.I don't have a billion dollars. how come I can't spend it?

Mrs Pye Cart
said

@Prof Pye Chart Dalton was bought out by Harper, if you were 4.3 billion to adopt the HST & hold this gong show wouldn't you? You know as well as myself this fake lake summit waste a colossal waste of about 2 billion. The out come of the meeting was nothing, all countries will continue with the same plan they had before the meeting & Harper is the one that caused nothing to happen. Shameful waste.

Edmund Dantes
said

The hateful leftwing protestors in this country will oppose just about anything that PM Harper and the Conservatives support. If Harper says the sky is blue, the leftists will say that it is red and then scream that the Conservatives have brought hell on earth.It is rather sad. I used to be neutral politically, but the rampant left-wing propaganda has pushed me more and more to back the Conservatives.

MARG MM
said

According to some reporters, the G8/G20 meetings were a great success for PM Harper and Canada.Unfortunatly, even if the "usual" Harper haters had heard those reports, they would still be out in full force with their hateful name calling comments. Yes, we do have freedom of speech, so all comments have a right to be heard. That also means the positive ones as well, but somehow the "left wing" think only theirs are justified, and any one else is either stupid or worse.It seems to me , that the people that actually have something constructive to offer, tend to be in favor of PM Harper and the Conservatives, the rest only have hatred in their vocabulary. Oh by the way, did the Liberals give Wendy the day off???

albert wesker
said

The PM calls the following accomplishments that only having the summit could have been accomplished: getting the G8 to commit 5 billion, 1 billion from Canada to Maternal health in Africa, to get the G8 countries not to commit to a Global bank tax and for the G20 to get there deficits cut in half by 2013. Does anyone think those 3 things were worth a $57,000 fake lake, and $980,000 in security. and around $2-3 million in financial loss to the business of toronto? No. All those things could have been done via video conference.

anthony c.
said

Ok now if Sheila Fraser audits the costs of this summit, and justifies it, then I'am good with that. I just would like a second opinion.

Tom Powell
said

Some of you people are really ignorant. The cost for this summit was lower than Pittsburgh (1.8 billion) Some schmo on CTV throws out 18 million and you think that'S the cost for the entire summit? LOL! Anyways, it's unfortunate about the rioting, but this is a normal occurence at these summits. All in all the damage was minimal, I mean there is comparable damage after the Canadiens win a playoff series ;) Remember that people were bussed in there from all over the place to start trouble. (They were bussing thugs in Montreal from outside Concordia) This summit, while appearing modest, is a crowning achievement for our country. Canada is now not just a global leader in the economy, but a leader and a model for other countries to follow and I am impressed with Harper taking the initiative. This will generate so much for our economy....not to mention the India deals as well. The only thing I didn't care for was the 1 billion (3 billion in total or something) for child and mother care etc...but it makes us look good. Oh yeah, to the fool who said we can't cut the deficit to meet the target...umm hello the stimulus package ends then so yeah it's a given. None of you understand that investors see this, and our leadership and will invest in us...generating hundreds of billions for our economy. I understand many of you are biased, but make relevant arguments don't be sheep and hate because he's Conservative. A valid point against him would be how he might not cover the costs of the vandalism though...we'll see what he does with that.

Graeme
said

We may need the summits, and I'll even go as far as to say in person is preferable to teleconferencing. What we don't need is a conference of 20,000 people! It's amazing that a "Conservative" can't see this and takes such a black and white approach to these summits. It's not a case of "all or nothing", we can have the conferences without it being this huge spectacle.

back and to the left
said

Prof. Pye Chartt wrote @ John, Halifax, NS: In my experience and wisdom, it is typically those who vacuously assault the "manhood" of a fellow male who are, themselves, uncomfortable and displaced in the world. Great comment, John...and thanks for telling us about yourself.Prof., you should take your own advise, it applies more to you than John. Thanks (sic) for telling us about yourself.

Elias Nasrallah
said

The anarchists are at it again in this forum. They are planting the lies already. Cops do not dress up as anarchists. Cops do not cause trouble. The anarchists lie about these things to "try" to embarass the police. The anarchists lie, destroy property, hide behind masks, are cowards, won't show thier faces in public, loot stores after breaking the windows and tell lies about how police treat them. If the foolish, infantile anarchists followed the law, they would not be arrested. If the anarchists did not cause trouble on perpose, they would not be hit. I just wish the cops used more force on the cowards......

Sharon
said

To be honest, the PM is only talking about his pressures and stresses, and that on the other G20 leaders. Truly, that's not what these meetings are about! I care about the stresses and pressures on the global population. Focus on the real point of these summits rather than the self-aggrandizing rhetoric.

gerry
said

The expenses that Mr. Harper rationalized on the basis of tradition -- nothing beats a handshake -- for example, does not explain the immense cost of running the G20 and G8. It only explains why he feels he shoul meet the leaders in person. What people were questioning in the first place is: why did the gov't spend so much more than it ever has, whether in person or not, now? Can this kind of expenditure (which we are paying for) be justified when a third economic crisis is a possibility. It contradicts his political position at the G20 -- to cut back on spending. Canadians deserve better and smarter.

matt
said

harper is a scumbag, brought in hst. just remember who brought in gst. if he is the best pm in your life-time...get a life.

SAM
said

With all the technologies available to us I find it ridiculous that its necessary for the leaders to gather in person. it would be possible to achieve the same means using technology. It would save money, the environment and time!

Catwoman 38
said

I think the govt are in the wrong for picking the location. I think it is good idea to look at teleconferencing, but not sure if the G20 can do business that way. Afterall, don't the leaders sign agreements?

Paul
said

Yet again.... unless a Liberal is at the wheel, the Left are an unhappy bunch.

Bill from Winnipeg
said

Blah, Blah, Blah. Small minded, Simple minded, Single minded. Aparently the protest continues on this comment board today. But what you'll never realize is that this G20 meeting will save lives (maternal care), save jobs (increased foreign investment in Canada), and save the world economy (by agreeing to cut their debt load). Things that will benefit you tremendously even though you'll never admit them. Had a Liberal Prime Minister been in charge right now, we all know you'd be smothering him with congratulations. ENUF SAID..........

Paul Vancouver Island
said

I really felt for the people of Toronto having to endure all they did this past weekend. When a company makes a bad decision they are open to being sued. When the Conservatives made a decision to hold the G20 Summit in downtown Toronto where people live and work that was a bad decision. Other locations were suggested to the Conservatives, including the area of the Central Canada Exhibition grounds on Lake Ontario (not a Fake Lake either) where it is far removed from people's homes and businesses or at another remote location. Harper choose to be deviant and put the people of Toronto through excessive trauma and destruction and all taxpayers through a $Billion price tag. The Conservatives should be sued for complicity and all the damage to the people of Toronto and they in turn can sue those convicted of actually doing the damage.

Evert McCallum
said

Harper is the most egotistical PM and the poorest PM we ever have had. None of this would have happened if his ego had not wanted this to happen in the core of our city. they could have had it outside the city.People were given warnings which they ignored them so they suffered the consequences. So be it.The police did a fantastic job. Evert McCallum

Mike
said

Completely understand the need for these summits, but why do they need to be held in populated urban centers. Is that not just asking for trouble? Maybe we should consider Baffin Island or Cold Lake for the next one. Easier to secure, no crowds and harder access to these idiots who think its fun to assault police officers and destroy what we have worked so hard to build.

Doug # BC
said

All that I see coming from the Harper Haters is proof that Canada is not yet grown up enough to actually host an event like this.Toronto,of all places.The centre of the known universe.The city that want to rule all of Canada.A multi cultural city with pointy headed academics spouting all kinds of ideologies and philosophies can't host an international vent in a civilized manner.If this is the best of Canada,we all are in big trouble.What a joke that was.An embarrassment to all of Canada.And now,I see a litany of posts by people defending the destruction of a city that many civilized people call "home". Don't credit Harper if you don't like him.I take no issue with that.But the fact is,aside from what Ontario called security,Canada came out of this conference with HUGE wins.No bank taxes for the taxpayers to pay.More interest in business and travel from China.India also interested in more business here.Support for maternal health care,that NGO's are admittedly wishing they had more,but very happy that they got real support by Canada.CNN,BBC,and FOX news airing very positive stories about this once great nation.We have more foreign "fans" than ever before.And certainly more than we would have if we had done as Liberals did,and referred to the President o the USA as a "moron". Canada wins,BIG TIME,from this conference.I can only imagine how much better our image would had been had it not been for the idiots who can't talk,thus they break something.Like 3 year old kids when they have a temper tantrum. Vancouver did a great job with the Olympics.I hate to say it,but TORONTO FAILED.Harper gave you a chance to shine,and you FAILED.Don't blame Harper.YOU BLEW IT.Harper came out a winner,and you came out LOSERS.

RJ
said

It is expected that Mr. Harper would defend his billion dollar expenditure of the G8/G20. We cannot be surprised. But there is no defence for holding this event in downtown Toronto and exposing our great city to this level of crime. If he wants face-to-face meetings with world leaders then spend the billion and build a conference centre in a remote area that can be easily defended. Then there would at least be something left to show for our tax dollars.

Bill in BC
said

Hi there, "Save Canadians from dictators"; maybe your should read what is written instead of jumping to conclusions. I am not a conservative nor did I imply that I was. So, back to remedial reading for you.

mike
said

Worst Prime Minister ever!

Rose
said

Can you picture the damage that would have been done if they had not had all the police there? The idots that did the damage need to learn respect for themselves, their country and this planet ! What good came from what they did? This was total madness done bu a few nut cases. By the why peaceful protesters why did'nt you stop them yourselves? They were very out numbered by you.

Brenda - Alberta
said

I support peaceful protests but in more recent years the protest movement only serves to ensure that carpenters and glass businesses have a steady stream of jobs after summits conclude. The best response on future summit locations came from a friend who suggested that they be held on an aircraft carrier. The black bloc would have a tough time employing their violent and disruptive tactics out in the ocean. This would certainly put them at a disadvantage and isn't that what we want? Next time choose a location where businesses and people lives are not disrupted.

Jim in Ottawa
said

While I myself am still a little bit unsure of what measurable progress was accomplished at this weekend's meeting, I think it is thoroughly wrong of people to suggest that we should relocate these meetings to a less populated place or hold them over the Skype or some other teleconferencing method. Toronto is where the vast majority of international consular services are located meaning that international dignitaries have a familiar and thoroughly conencted office to work from while in Canada, and that teleconferences can also be subject to security violations or databombing by hacker terrorists. The fact is: no method is 100% security proof, and we can't allow a handful of idiots rule our streets or stop the rest of the civilized world from carrying on with our important business. The only solution I am afraid is for our legal and policing authorities to crack down hard on these idiots. I commend their best efforts this past weekend.

Peter in MB
said

@ Andrew in beautiful Dundas, Ontario “Ask yourself this: How many of the protesters/thugs were LEFT-WING nuts? ALL OF THEM!! Funny, I didn't see any of those scary Conservative groups ... Good point Andrew… how many years have the Left Wing liberal socialists trampled on Western Canadians Rights and Freedoms. Funny that there were No Right-Wing Red Neck Hunters or angry sportsmen protest our rights to legally own Guns. I did not see any Western Farmers protest their right to sell outside the Wheat Board. Heck I didn’t even see any Pro-lifers there. Even thou I believe in Pro chose Myself. This is due to the fact that they were most likely WORKING! Or had better things to do with their spare time.

Tomko
said

ProudCanadian77,,,,,What a hipocrite to use the words ProudCanadian...then write what you write. I supose you have a "Black Hood" also...

Edmonton Vic
said

Way to go Mr. Prime Minister, i for one back you 100%. To those who think this will not happen in France or in Korea or anywhere else for that matter pull your head out of your dark side because these people do not go there with any thing on there mind nut to destroy property and lives!!!

Prof. Pye Chartt
said

Lest Liberal Premier Dalton McGuinty be allowed to hide in a corner while Ottawa (and PM Harper) take the political hit, this morning I listened to the Mayor of Toronto, Miller, express his shared understanding, and underscore a fundamental point, that the Province of Ontario enthusiastically supported the selection of downtown Toronto. So, a "thank-you" to you, too, Dalton.

Gerald
said

Dale said: "Stephen Harper is the best Prime Minister that Canada has had in my lifetime!"I must say, Dale, that you write very well for a four year old!!

Pam
said

I didn't watch any of this disgustsing behaviour as it was too sickening. Please tell me, as the media haven't, did any of the general population get to see any of the incoming leaders. If so, how many did they see and did they get acknowledgement back from the leaders for being there to welcome them. The police knew about the Black Bloc before the day arrived and could have arrested them on suspicion of causing a riot as soon as they were seen wearing their black gear. That is where our money should have been spent. Did the protesters get any glimpse of the leaders? Employers of these protesters should garnish their pay to reduce the cost of the destruction. The protesters will only be too glad to inform their fellow workers of their good work in protesting. I thought all police had to have a psychological test for violence before joining the force and this should have been done prior to this meeting.

Freddy
said

In future these should always be held in Guantanamo Bay. Its a secure environment, no protests would be able to get there and I'd love to see the violent protesters try to break in.

Walter (Winnipeg)
said

Trashed CityAll the people arrested should be held accountable and pay for the damage done to he city. Just like a kid that vandalises property, what's the difference.You want to demonstrate you have to do it peacefully or pay the price.

Rosemary
said

Stephen Harper and his cronies at the G8 summit could have done this via videoconference at a fraction of the cost.Many of the world leaders in attendence also have polygamy as a minor but important discussion point. Does Stephen Harper want to explain to the world that he is aware that Saskatchewan "assists with and sanctions polygamy in Canada."? Probably not. Saskatchewan Family court justices (Queens bench federal appointees) "create" and "sanction" married persons to also be simultaneous spouses of other persons. That is a federal criminal offence in itslf and Mr. Harper and his justice minister know it. Has anyone at a federal level got the fortitude to insist on compliance with Canafian federal criminal code? Who will jail these judges? Why doesx Mr. Harper preach he believes in Canda's polygamy law and then.. do nothing!

Ron M Mb.
said

So tired of all the comments about cost wether it be a billion or not. What ever money that was spent is all still right here in Canada helping to keep our economy rolling. The very people that were protesting the cost is the very reason the cost was so high. Get over it. Job well done. PM

Camille Crawford
said

Mr. Stephen Harper,No one is denying that the G20 and/or the G8 summits are necessary, we are concerned at the choice of location for the venue. Mayor Miller suggested, and rightly so, that the G20 Summit be held in a more appropriate location such as the CNE. Your choice of locations shows that you are not capable of being a Prime Minister that has the best interests of the people you represent in mind.

John
said

No matter in which country they are located, there are always riots for the G8-G20. Why don't they organize those meetings in a remote MILITARY BASE? Safety will be the best possible surrounded by heavy fences and military personnel. People would have nothing to break around it! Cost would be extremely minimal.Better yet, go green and organize teleconferences. No flights, reduced carbon footprint, no physical safety concerns, the only thing needed would be high encription communication! No wasted time either. Corporation do it, why can't government do it? It would save billions!!!

Ed
said

Harper thinks a billion dollars is reasonable for security, eh? Sounds easy when you're talking taxpayers money. In perspective, if you spent $3.65 million dollars each and every year you lived, you would not be able to spend a billion dollars in your lifetime. Unless you were a politician of course.

Rob
said

What a biased headline... "Harper defends need for... violent summits"Would this headline appear like this if Iggy The Great was PM? Methinks not.

Scott in Edm.
said

Some comments have said "best PM" etc. If so why doesn't he have a majority and why is he slipping even further?In my opinion, the reason is that the G8/G20 were staged for optics not substance. Not unlike so many other things we've seen in the past four years.If more Canadians would look at details rather than facades, Mr. Harper would be looking for a different job and have 1 billion less dept!

JB in Ontario
said

I agree with prime minister Harper, there is no substitute for face to face talks and taking on global challenges in this global economy. Not only is the G8 a tradition, it shows that Canada is a great place to do business. Well worth the money spent on hosting and on security!

cheryl9608
said

most expensive photo op EVER.

Gabby in QC
said

For Al who said: "Please bring Paul Martin back to breath [sic] some sanity into the running of our Canada ..." You obviously didn't hear Paul Martin's speech before the Empire Club on June 2. Here's part of what he said:"... Finally it is more than appropriate that the city of Toronto be the gathering place for the Canadian discussion.... where better to hold the next summit, than here in the home of Canadaâ€™s 5 largest banks, institutions which in themselves and in the structure that regulates them, have become the models for others to follow. ..."See? Even your idol thought Toronto was the obvious choice as the venue for the G20.Had this summit been held under the Liberals, I suppose all the security and the expenses would have been justified, right?

Ann G
said

The city of Toronto suggested the G20 be held at the CNE grounds as it is self-contained and would have been more easily protected. Also, there are few buildings around it and quite a bit of open land. The PMO refused this. Like 5th generation Canadian I believe downtown Toronto was chosen for vindictive reasons as To does not have one Conservative MP. It was a terrible decision as the PMO knows the Black Bloc will be out in force & vandalism is almost guaranteed at these events. I was in New Brunswick this past week and, even there, people thought it was a ridiculous idea to hold the G20 in downtown To. Way to go Steve. You showed your vindictive nature , biases and partisanship in spades. I have a feeling you may have lost lots of votes in the 905, especially Oakville.

Martin
said

When you put a tiger into an elephant cage, you know what's going to happen next. Toronto did not WANT or ASK for the G20 summit; it was foisted upon it. What if the Vatican decided to hold a conference in Mecca? That's exactly what happened here. PM Harper's decision was stupid at best, deliberately provocative at worst, and irresponsible in either case.

linda
said

There's plenty of opportunity for handshakes and photo ops at the UN. OH, but wait...at the UN you have to subject your proposals to the votes of ALL the nations involved and some of the leaders in that forum may actually try to block your greed and exploitation. G20 leaders should not be able to make deals with one another that run rough shod over democratic forums. Think about it, the UN's operating budget for a whole year is less than what's spend on these useles summits. Shame on Canadians who have forgetten about democracy.

Save Canadians from the Dictator (s)....
said

Bill in BCsaid"Ah, yes. The Harper Haters are out in force today. Pity they haven't got anything constructive to contribute to the country so they make up for it in vitriol and whines. Apparently, they still don't have even a basic understanding of how international relations are conducted. Only among the "new intelligensia" you say? Pity."Bill-this is Canada all voices are heard- including yours- which sounds like you would prefer a dictatorship- time to stop thinking like Stephen Harper- you are embarrassing yourself....

Havelock Heavy
said

All of that face to face glad handing and issuing communiques that are massaged and nuanced so that everyone can buy in, is NOT worth $1 billion of taxpayers' money - never! Find a cheaper venue and I'll support you, otherwise forget it.

Can't believe some voters are still lost in space
said

Looks like the "lemmings" are out in droves....

PCJ in SK
said

As usual, excellent leadership...what do you think would happen to underdeveloped countries if these exchanges didn't take place?

Jocelyne
said

I think that it should have been held on a miltery base or an island somewhere and it should always be held at the same place every year. It would reduce cost.

Andrew in beautiful Dundas, Ontario
said

Ask yourself this: How many of the protesters/thugs were LEFT-WING nuts? ALL OF THEM!! Funny, I didn't see any of those scary Conservative groups ...

opinion
said

I see the Harper flock are out in force praising his intentions, what nonsense. This G8/G20 is nothing but some love-in by the so called powerful with their egos running a mock. They accomplish nothing, ever! Mind you these are the same powerful leaders of countries which just recently sent the world into a melt down due to the same missed policies that time after time they get together to discuss. As long as Government & Big Business are in the same ballroom nothing will change in this world. This was and always will be a TOTAL WASTE OF MONEY & TIME.

Bob
said

Well Mr. Harper would be crazy not to defend the mess he made in Toronto. When all big companies are cutting costs for meetings and travel Mr. Harper has found a billion dollars in money that was not needed for health care, homeless people or other things. Heck if I could have an annual big expensive party and still live off the tax payers I would do the same thing. What came out of this was a big waste and a thumbing of his nose to all Canadians.

Scott ONT
said

What I think a lot of you don't seem to grasp is that the G8/G20 is also an opportunity to showcase to the rest of the world how beautiful Canada and encourage foreign investments. Toronto and Huntsville were great choices, it shows the diversity of lifestyles available here. The G8/G20 are always greatly covered by the media, therefore if it wasn't for the idiots ransacking downtown Toronto, this would have been a great success. I can't believe people are trying to shift the blame away from the criminals here onto the G8/G20 organizers. Give your head a shake

Doug
said

It would not matter where the G20 summit was held....even in the far north....because the riots would still take place in Toronto....just as the did in Vancouver while this was going on in Toronto.

Richard in Ontario
said

What's really disturbing is that the posters against these Summits and cost etc. really don't have a clue as to the fact that these Summits are necessary to get the Leaders face to face to discuss World problems. It is quite apparent that Liberal or NDPers posting here wouldn't be saying anything positive it these Summits cost a buck fifty. When I listen to the positive comments coming out of Huntsville I'm sure those people felt it was all worth it, but I guess in Liberal TO, nothing would satisfy the NIMBY"s there.. World Class city? Hah To the Liberals here in Ontario, you let the Dalton Gang steal more money evrery month out of your pockets than your share of the cost of these Summits and never a word from you. Why is that?

Hater of Quebec
said

Most of those who were arrested were from Quebec

PVT
said

These world leaders could save everyone a lot of money and grief if they just talked things over while they do what they do at the Bohemian Grove...

JPM
said

So what did we get for our BILLION $$$$ of taxpayers money?A trashed City.A pledge from G20 to lower government spending.Cops in a higher tax bracket this year...Duh! Did I miss something here?If you thought it was all worth it, make sure you vote for Harper in the next election.

opinion
said

Surprise, Surprise, of course Harper defends his total waste of money & foresight, for the G8/G20 he always does. This is what he does best.

DON
said

Just how much BS can this guy shoot.

Moe
said

To all you people saying send it to the far North, What's wrong with the far North, we are still part of Canada last time I checked. So what your really saying is don't do it my back yard but someone else's is fine. To take it North would cost considerably more money than was already spent! Think it through.For all you younger generation that are knocking meeting face to face, business isn't always done in isolation behind a cell phone or on a computer, there is something to be said for looking someone in the eye and making a commitment.That ensure that it isn't meaningless and that the person can be held to account for what they said.

Duiker
said

Dale, you must be two years old then...

BCDarr
said

I truly believe that the 30% who support Harper come hell or high water and agree with him that this 1 Billion dollar expenditure was 'worth it' should be the ones who pay for it.Put your money where your mouths are conservatives. I'm sure your Canadian Idol is worth the extra taxes and you won't mind shouldering 'the greatest Prime Minister's' folly again and again. The rest of us, however, are sick of it.

Richard in Ontario
said

@Niagara GeorgeWait for it George, your Illustrious Leaders will be all over this wanting a Public Enquiry, or for sure will want weeks and weeks of Committee meetings. But then after they spend Millions more trying to troll for votes and trying to slag Mr Harper they'll surely tell us it was all worth it. You know, Liberals spending money is a totally different kettle of fish than when other parties do it. I think it's called "entitled to our entitlements" Sorry for your disappointment but even the News casters that are usually biased toward your party were giving accolades to the PM after the Summits.

michael man
said

Give me a break, Harper is trying to excuse the inexcusable- holding this event in downtown Toronto.I guess he figured he wasn't going to get any votes there anyway, so why not trash that city- I wonder what the response would have been if he planned it for Calgary instead?

Scott Johnson
said

I believe it naive for all the posters, whether intelligent or bored baboon, to continuously comment on the cost. Canada, being a "liberal democracy" has different disclosure rules than other nations. The Seattle conference cost in the range of 1.2-1.6 billion dollars. The reported cost was that of the host city as reported by the media. The cost is always exorbitant when hosting so many high profile targets. Security will never completely ensure there will be no violent or inappropriate behaviour by those that travel from around the globe to undermine the best preparations. All other host nations’ of past where not thought less of because of the antics of notaries and expected disrupters, neither will Canada.And for those that question PM Harper's, or his organisers, for hosting the meeting in large centers (Montreal, Toronto), be assured that neither this, nor any other Prime Minister chooses a city to host such an event as punishment. It is considered an act of recognition. The location must be able to support the volumes of international guests, and send them home with memories of their visit as both metropolitan and worldly. We cannot just build a tent city or lease as many cottages as possible in hopes of hiding in the bushes from the troublesome. Many hours went into the reconnaissance, planning and preparation for this summit, with all intentions of presenting Toronto as a world class city and Canada as a competent host.For the most, this can be considered a success, both in its political and secondary gains.

Doug On
said

The fact is there is no other venue in Canada where such a meeting could be held, considering how it is grown and the logistics involved. Mayor Miller said it should be held at the CNE. One little problem with that,: considering the thugs that follow thjese gatherings around, would he want motorcades fanning out to various hotels in Toronto. The Prime Minister did a maginificant job. not only in the preparations for the discussions, but also for ensuring that the right resources were available to for the proper level of security. Since we are a relatively small economy, dependant on so many outsiders, our leadership was vital for our own future. This was Canada's turn to lead, and we should all be proud that we did it right. Actually, the amount of violence was miniscule compared to all other G20 meetings.

Gord. Robson, Nova Scotia
said

"Dale", I agree with you 100 % ! . A number of commentors do not understand politics and the importance of doing business face to face when we are dealing with such imporant issues.Our elected Prime Minister Harper has done a great job for Canada and is the best prime minister that I have seen in 67 years !I know some will disagree with me and that is your right just as it is my right to give my view.Happy Canada Day to all on July 1st.

Al in Orillia
said

Stephen Harper is the best Prime Minister this country has seen in my lifetime! The Harper haters keep posting their juvenile insults and are sounding more and more like their lame leader everyday, totally incapable of constructive commentary.

GHW
said

These G8 and G20 get-togethers are absolutely a great idea. People don’t realize how fragile our relatively prosperous and peaceful world actually is, how difficult the global challenges are and how much worse it could all be. Any day that leaders get together and discuss our problems is a good day indeed. The huge security cost is not the fault of Harper but the fault of radical protesters. The huge cost of hosting is worth every penny for Canada and the world. Toronto was the ideal location because it is now formally a leading economic hub of the world. Among the protesters you will find special interest groups, idealists and crack pots. The special interest groups protesting are usually made up of socialists who believe in profiting whining. Idealists believe everyone should think and act like they do and crack pots just like to hate everything and everybody. I say to all of them, get a life!

Philip Maddatu
said

No matter where you host the G8/G20 summits protests & riots will break out. The Black Bloc aims for the major downstown cities where the impact of their vandalism would be greater. The "corporate media" have got to know the difference between riots, violence and chaos. What the Black Bloc committed was purely vandalism. Wikipedia: "Violence is the expression of physical or verbal force against self or other, compelling action against one's will on pain of being hurt." The Black Bloc's were NOT hurting people - they were damaging business and city property. What happened on Queen & Spadina was deplorable. Bill Blair and his team of commandos should have come up with a more reasonable and humane way to deal with the peaceful protestors. If I were cornered for many hours I think I too would become agitated & irritated and more than likely begin to spew words of hatred & digust. Can you honestly blame the protestors for mocking and ridiculing the police?Speaking of the Queen & Spadina incident... What a way to end the G20 Summit. Several hundred protestors & police in a stad off in the pouring rain in one of Toronto's major & popular intersection. Is this supposed to justify the billion dollar plus security budget somehow? I guess no one can pass judgement until the books are made public. Lastly, when the Black Bloc were running all over downtown caussing chaos and havoc and vandalising anything in site why didn't the police do anything about it? They arrested peaceful protestors at The Esplanade, Queen's Park, Allen Gardens & the now infamous Queen & Spadina.WAY TO GO BILL BLAIR!WAY TO GO MCGUINTY!WAY TO GO MR. HARPER!

Scott
said

How can 1.3 billion dollars plus be possibly justified for a three day get together.As the French President stated ' I will do it for 1/10th of what you paid Harper.'I do not think any of those in attendance could believe the price tag.I sure cannot believe it. Although like other Canadian taxpayers I am paying and paying and paying.

Karen
said

I am amazed at how many people love this Harper guy. He is the most arrogant,controlling human being I have seen. (well maybe Mike Harris was also) To continue these talks and have the violence that comes with them is insane. The politicians in this world just don't get it. Talk to us little guys, see how we live. Talk to those starving in this world, thoe who don't have clean water and safe food. We will tell you how to run this world.

ronald
said

Is a shame this "man" is our Prime Minister.Living in the G20 Summit Zone, I felt shame being Canadian.

Earthwatcher
said

These summits will continue, whether you agree with them or not. International diplomacy and economic policy making will continue to be hammered out this way, regardless of how the average citizen feels about the high monetary cost...which by the way I agree with, it is outrageous.I recall a blog from weeks back suggesting a way to host future G20 and G8 summits. Hire out a luxury cruise ship, put everyone involved on board and head out to sea. Host nation to provide Naval escort for security and voila!! meeting accomplished in a safe, cost effective manner and all the dignitaries get to hang out in luxury for their 3 or 4 day jaunt.Can't see that costing a billion dollars...unless they have a no limit bar tab or something!!

Jay, Ottawa
said

Dale said "Stephen Harper is the best Prime Minister that Canada has had in my lifetime!" >> You must be 5 years old.

Dean from SK
said

@ common sense.. I think you have it wrong. Perception is NOT reality. Reality is reality. Perception is the reality for people who are too mentally lazy to research the facts for themselves and simply go with how things "look". These are the same people who rely on someone else to make up their mind for them.

Island Man
said

WE don't need expeditures on Fake Lakes and similar unnecessary frils to have these meetings. $1 billion for a meeting is way too much.

Darrell, NS
said

If the G20 can get it right over the next five years, as many as 54 million new jobs could be created around the world and 90 million people could be lifted out of poverty.

Imagine That
said

Imagine a country where Parliament is padlocked twice in 13 months to frustrate the democratic will of the elected majority. A country that slyly relaxes environmental regulations even as its neighbor reels from a catastrophic oil leak blamed on slack controls. A country that boasts about prudent financial management while blowing through a $13-billion surplus on the way to a $47-billion deficit. A country where a political operative puts fork-tongued words in a top generalâ€™s mouth. A country that refuses to fund the same safe abortions to poor women abroad as it provides at home. A country where the national police commissioner skews a federal election and is never forced to explain. A country that writes a covert manual on sabotaging Commons committees. A country dragging its climate change feet as the true north melts. A country that silences political debate on the sale of a publicly owned, crown jewel corporation. A country that puts higher priority on building super-prisons than keeping people out of them. A country that twists its foreign policy around the interests of another nation. A country that argues that barricading its largest city promotes tourism. A country that promises Senate reform only to continue stuffing it with political hacks. A country that avoids answers about a controversial war by accusing questioners of supporting the enemy. A country where party apparatchiks decide who in a nominally free press is allowed to ask the Prime Minister questions. A country where donut shop wisdom is more prized than expert analysis. A country that builds a fake lake for a tough-times summit. A country that preaches law and order while killing a long-gun registry police chiefs insist makes citizens safer. A country that promises accountability only to impose secrecy. That country is now this country

Jeff
said

Worst move ever! This man is a total doorknob. Can't wait for the day he is replaced! How dare you bring violence to my backdoor! Next time Calgary can host this thing!!

Sore Tax Payer
said

Hey Dale - what are you, two years old? You must be if Harper is the best PM you've had in your lifetime!Harper's arrogance is incredible. From day one, he refused to listen or respond to our concerns when we coiced them over these summits, and now here's what we're left with:- well-fed and entertained world leaders- a massive clean-up job for Torontonians- a huge out-of-pocket expense for Canadians- Toronto with long-lasting personal scars, violent statistics to add to its histiry, and a drained fake lake- Muskoka with a gazeboMr. Harper has used Canadians, spent our money, and now he's left with defending the good time he and his buddies had at our expense. Hey Steve - here's an idea: pick up a broom and help with the clean-up in Toronto!

Island Man
said

So if Harper is handling global diplomacy then we should get rid of all the so-called diplomatic ambassadors. We can't afford both

Richard in Ontario
said

Being Monday morning, it would be a total surprise if any of the Lliberals such as John would say anything positive. A lot of us appreciate how our PM is doing his job. Oh I know the slaggers will say 35% or whatever Liberals use, but then again it's better still than the 25% for Iggy and Bob. Great Job Mr Harper.

John from B.C.
said

Indeed their must be a enormous pressure and responsibility,in leading a country,and able to communicate with world leaders. I admire your cool and calm approach against adversarety,s and attack`s.You have my respect Prime Minister Harper. Canada is doing well.

Arthur
said

Harper shows he will justify anything, even violence. He is not to be trusted! I am ashamed to have a "leader" like him.

Peter in MB
said

So nothing was accomplished and it cost 1.3 billion. Can’t the Harper haters do any better then that? For the last 3 days that all we have herd from them. The G-20 was held in the GTA which is the liberal stronghold and all you can do is complain. I am sure that Calgary or Winnipeg would have been more than happy to host the G-20. But then the haters would Accuse Harper of rewording his supporters just like they did with the Olympic torch run. Harper is trying to put Canada in a Positive spotlight and all the opposition and all of its supporters have done is be extremely Negative. We all know that you Haters have never voted for Harper and the conservative and you never will vote for them. So give it rest already.

Ben
said

I would love for just once to see the opposition turn around and say that maybe the government didn't make such a bad decision after all in their security preparation. That kind of integrity would actually gain them votes- they just don't understand that and continue the political games. Regardless, it's nice having a PM for once who does lead with at least a hint of integrity and I for one am proud of most of what he is doing.

Cathy
said

Harper is an idiot. He is to blame for the mess in Toronto. Power has gone to his head and his arrogance led to the decision to hold this summit in Toronto in the first place ( 15 minute before leaving for China ad then refusing to meet with those who tried to tell him this was a bad idea, including the mayor of TO). $1.2 B in security costs for a $1.1 Billion dollar announcement and now he is going to preach restraint to us to cut a deficit that is his fault?? !! Harper has done nothing for the good or future of Canada, everything he does is for his own agenda and power.

John, Oshawa
said

Eduard I completely agree with you. I do not particularily like Harper but he is the best choice we have for prime minister. Iggy, (an improvement over Dion, but still not good enough to lead the country) Band Wagon Jack and the rest are followers not leaders. They whine that Harper runs the government like he has a majority and not a minority. Well if you don't like it do something about it rather then whine about the costs of this and not enough spent on that. Haven't heard a word from the other leaders all weekend, they must be waiting to see which side of the fence public opinion falls so they can climb on the band wagon. If the leadership of the other federal parties was not so weak then harper couldn't do what ever he wants. The opposition are the ones that are truly failling Canadians. Imagine all the money that could be spent on social programs if we didn't have a need for high security costs for these events. Way to go to all those protesters who participated in the violenec or merely stood by and cheered it on. Your message has gotten through we need to commit less to social programs and more to security and clean up costs for future G8 and G20 meetings.

Darrell, Nova Scotia
said

You don't need rocket science to understand had the Summit been held outside the City core, the Police and security would be required to protect the Summit/ Leaders, leaving the City core unprotected (anarchy-Black Bloc).

mrbob_58
said

I think we are missing a huge point here. Mr Harper has called for the countries of the world to cut thier deficts in half within 3 years. I assume Canada is also expected to do this. If I am right this would be aproximately 22 billion dollars. Where is this money going to come from???

Mary
said

The public has been deceived. The media went along with it. Some reporters were not so gullible though. This Government was so out of bounds with the security at the G/8/20. Canadians should demand a review into the manufactured violence staged by its central organizers. The police acted on orders and were not responsible for the arrests as they followed orders from afar but iI was clear to me the people who came out of nowhere and communicated by radio were not part of some organized anarchist group as was the police car fire - an added prop and the finding of black clothing on campus. These targets had been planned weeks ago by the the government and a set up. Those who have been at other such events know that what was televised was staged. The "Black Bloc" was invented for TV and enabled the police to arrest innocent law abiding "protesters". The likes of Vic Toews care little about Justice - a right wing ideologue interested only in power- he will do anything to deceive the public for his Gestapo like agenda.Anyone watching could see that the violence was orchestrated and allowed to "spontaneously" happen to justify mass arrests and justify the billion dollar budget. This G8/20 concluded with what? Cut deficits? This country was not in a deficit before the Conservatives came on board. They managed to spend all the surplus and create a booming deficit and now squandering another billion or more for the big show and to make us believe we should vote for them in the next election. They are the real thugs and hooligans and any Canadian would do well to throw them out of office before all our social infrastructure is gone with the middle class and any hope for maternal health in this country never mind in poor nations.

Stu from London
said

Great comment by Prof. Pye Chartt. Fair and balanced. Oddly enough, the Jays series against the Phillies is moved to Philadelphia (why not a neutral AL park, I don't know) while the TFC game on Saturday goes ahead! That's the most confusing aspect of this thing for me....

Craig
said

Why do news organizations insert a bias in headlines instead of reporting the story?

The words "costly" and "violent" are not only unnecessary in the headline, Harper is not defending either, only defending the need for a summit.

Al
said

Please bring Paul Martin back to breath some sanity into the running of our Canada and to put Canada back on the road towards fiscal respnsiblity. The excessive and wasteful spending by Harper and Flaherty has got to stop or my children and grandchildren will have an awful deep debt to dig out from and will lose many of the benefits we share as Canadians. The French have invited Paul Martin to help them sort out their economy. If people around the world thought anything of Harper they would have ask him, but no they come to this meeting & are getting advice from Paul Martin. We need the fiscal liberals back in power, Harper will bankrupt Canada. The violent protest are people showing their discontent with Harper.

Bradd Toronto
said

Start a NEW Party for the PEOPLE by the People.........enough is enoughTIME 4 CHANGE............no MORE B/S

Dayton
said

Who says the money wasn't well spent? As we speak the money spent on the summit is floating around in Canada stimulating our economy,right? I don't think Harper took all that loot and buried it in a hole. Give me a break!!!

Old Ted
said

Take the billion dollars and build a modern hotel and runway on Baffin Island. Let the G20 fund it. Fly the people in and fly them out. The protesters certainly won't be able to get there nor will the terrorists. Spending a billion dollars every time these guys meet is insane.

Ana, Toronto
said

Public servants are told to limit travel, that resources such as video conferencing should be used wherever possible. How was that not a solution for our "world leaders", especially with all the cons (cost, safety, violence)? They didn't have to consider their safety with one billion dollar's worth of security so there was simply a disregard for the safety of residents and business owners.

Tim
said

Sorry Harper there is no justifying this huge waste of tax dollars. Absolutely nothing was accomplished at this meeting, all countries agreed to do what they had already planned to do. The fake lake & security cost was about 50 times more money than it should have been. The US only spent 18 million on the G meeting last year. Harper should be held responsible for the cost of damages.

Prof. Pye Chartt
said

@ John, Halifax, NS: In my experience and wisdom, it is typically those who vacuously assault the "manhood" of a fellow male who are, themselves, uncomfortable and displaced in the world. Great comment, John...and thanks for telling us about yourself.

Gabby in QC
said

Those who, like Dean in Abby, say that world leaders should meet behind closed doors in a private location would probably be the first to complain about world leaders meeting behind closed doors in a private location.In other words, damned if you do, damned if you don't. P.S. to CTV website staff: the video of the PM's interview is not working.

5th Generation Canadian
said

Open note to Mr. Harper -- I do not think you are a stupid man. Therefore, I must assume that you are simply vindictive when it comes to Toronto. Why on earth would you choose us; knowing as you did that we would face a serious loss of business revenue; damage to our buildings; loss of freedoms and the worst "world wide attention" we could possibly receive?????? Yup, vindictive - we don't vote for you, you screw us royally. P.,S. Tony Clement's constituents in Huntsville no doubt appreciate the millions of dollars in improvements tossed around up there in the name of the G8 Summit. Oh, but they voted for you!!! Point proven.

rmsbl4
said

I am willing to bet that the next summit held will cost nowhere near what Canada wasted.Canada is the laughing stock of the world press for its idiotic costs.

Mead
said

Why don't we just sue the 500 Black Bloc hoodlums arrested for $1B to cover the costs, since they are the reason for all this.

Chris
said

To Dean in Abby: they can't hold the meetings in secret. There are laws against such things and ruling governments in true democracy must maintain transparency. Although I agree with you about it, we must have full disclosure on where they meet.

M.M.B. Ont
said

Congratulations Mr Harper ! You achieved what you set out for Canada and stood up for waht you believed in. As for the costs of the summits, the Liberals or NDP had they hosted them, would have spared no expense and would have justified every penny of it. But as it happens that Mr Harper and the Conservatives hosted the summits, then everyone is critical. Get over it folks, money was spent, money was earned and the gov't will get back some of it in the form of taxes. It is unfortunate that there were some thugs or stupid individuals who have no respect for anything or anyone and who had no issues other than to make fools of themselves and be destructive. For all of these, they should be made to pay for the damages that they incurred. Police know who they are !

simon
said

SO. What was achieved? The leaders agreed to disagree. The leaders agreed to proceed as previously determined by each member country. Some will proceed with austerity measures. Some will continue stimulus spending. Some will try to reduce their deficits. They could all have simply stayed home and agreed to be different. Just like Copenhagen, Nothing Binding was achieved.

KJ in Kingston Ontario
said

I am so disappointed in Harper in respect to the poor judgment, cavalier attitude and irresponsible leadership that the planning, organization and cost control this event has displayed. I am absolutely disgusted in so many ways I can't begin to list. The touted "results" will be forgotten in a few weeks if not days -- but the expense won't will forgotten or forgiven.

Winnie Hfx.
said

Keep up the GOOD work Mr. Harper, our country is SO fortunate to have you as Prime Minister at this time, and as far as the money spent for the summits, I think it was REALLY worth it, it did what it was supposed to and kept the protesters and thugs at bay, but unfortunately you can't control vandalism on the streets ever. Also I enjoyed Mr. Harpers interview with Beverly Thompson on Canada AM this morning, Thank You Canada AM. I do watch the program faithfully.

Eduard
said

The joke is that Harper is the best of the worst of the 5. Toronto and $1B shameful waste. too bad the grits have ruined themselves for the next 5-10 years. now the tories have a free ride. ha Canada the joke is on you. pay the man. NOW

URU
said

AFTER spending 1 Billion $$ on security by the HARPER Gov't of course HARPER and his orginizers wants the violence to take place. His Gov't needs to justify the money spent. If there was no violence or disruptions than HARPER'S Gov't would look like a bunch of clowns if the event ran smoothly.Perhaps HARPER'S orginizers has set up the rioters with the police force by having their own people in the crowd disguise as protesters to stir and inflame the ACTUAL peaceful protesters?

Canuck
said

Haha...are you 3 years old, Dale? He's the best Prime Minister in your lifetime??

gee
said

... as opposed to modest peaceful ones? The headline is biased and misleading.

J. S.
said

We are now at $1.3 billion and still counting. This does not include the cost of the riot in Toronto. This figure also does not include the enormous cost to businesses that were damaged in the riot, or the cost of businesses that have to close their doors while their business is repaired. Also not included in the cost are all the people who lost income because these businesses had to close, or those that just could not enter Toronto because it was just too dangerous. Stephen Harper was warned that Toronto was not the place to hold this event, not once but many times. We all witnessed on the news exactly why Toronto was a poor choice as we watched fires being set and businesses ruined, and the streets being taken over.The last G20 meeting in the states came in at $18 million dollars. The one before that in England came in at $30 million. Nothing in the last 12 months has changed as far as world security is concerned. Stephen Harper, during a time where Canada has gone from having a surplus of many billions of dollars has plunged this country deep into debt. The billion dollars he spent is money we do not have. Taxpayers will have to shoulder this debt for years to come. No nation could or should have to shoulder the cost of this. These meetings should be held in the only place in this world that is secure and and already prepared for this type of event, and that is the U.N. The operational costs of the U.N. for an entire year, come in at about a billion dollars. Canadians were taken for a tax ride!

Anne Smith
said

To the people who think that Canada was seen by the whole world as No. 1 I say, yeah, not for the right reasons. All that violence and the money it cost are not worth it. First and most of all, the bank tax was already a done deal before this summit, second, all the countries agreed to reduce deficits, however, each country will do his own thing, third and most importantly, all this could have been done by teleconference at a fraction of the cost and no violence at all. Talk about throwing money through the window(s). Harper had only one goal in mind, and it was being the leader of this whole thing. He was big time. Just like a pack of wolves and I am not fair to the wolves.

Bill in BC
said

Ah, yes. The Harper Haters are out in force today. Pity they haven't got anything constructive to contribute to the country so they make up for it in vitriol and whines. Apparently, they still don't have even a basic understanding of how international relations are conducted. Only among the "new intelligensia" you say? Pity.

Ted in Sask
said

The police could have stopped the vandalism long before it escalated to the level that it did. The coverage by CTV was exceptional and was more exciting than a UFC match. I got my $31 worth of entertainment. That is everyone in Canada's share of the 1 billion. Great job of reporting such a precarious situation.

Ken - Durham
said

Congratulations Prime Minister Harper. The cowards that hide behind masks are capable of one thing only; violence and damage carried out against innocent people and businesses of Toronto. Cowards that demonstrate just how foolish a ragtag bunch of fools can be. Causing damage on a scale that is sure to trickle down so that we all pay for their ridiculous actions. We will pay due to insurance claims and lost business passed on in the pricing of goods and services. These fools have absolutely no understanding of what it takes to run a nursery school, hamlet, town, city, province or country let alone what it takes to stand out as a leader in the midst of global economic issues that are clearly far beyond the grasp of foolish cowards. Congratulations Prime Minister Harper!

CDN_Realist
said

WHY????What was accomplished that couldn't have been some other SAFER, CHEAPER way? No NEW deals were signed, everything agreed to, signed etc, was choreographed with great precision and orchestrated months in advance. This was simply one big expensive, ego massaging, photo op for the harper and all the other that attended!

Prof. Pye Chartt
said

Outside of the usual political crackpots, most intelligent and reasonable people see a tangible value in the formal assembly of world leaders to discuss "global" issues. What cannot be justified is the relatively massive expenditure for the security of same. Clearly, Canada outspent other summit hosts by an eye-popping margin. The overall and ultimate governmental and economic "benefit" inuring to taxpayers is more than questionable. As expected, what Canadians (and the world) really got to witness was the professional violence and destruction of a band of empty-headed thugs who, somehow, managed to demonstrate that a $1B security budget still couldn't protect private and public property. That was the G20 "news" everybody followed, and that which the excited and self-serving media truly cared about. (Watching salivating "journalists" frustrate police by stubbornly sharing the path of determined troublemakers like idiotic zombies sporting cameras and microphones was disappointing, and par for the course.) All in all, it was a grand farce that our PM can't spin into a wondrous event. The messages and "causes" of legitimate protestors are already forgotten. Now we'll be treated to the post-summit whining of arrested/detained gumballs accusing police of making their wristbands too tight, rationing toilet paper, and denying cell phone usage. Residents, restaurants, and businesses in downtown Toronto got shafted. Inflowing curious dimwits got a thrill milling about and taking pictures of the mayhem. In the end, world leaders agreed to "try" to burn less of our money. Thanks, Ottawa. It was awesome.

pablo
said

The only ones to blame for the violence are the masked thugs. There is no excuse for that behaviour. Peaceful protesters and members of the public need to call them out and shame them, just as was done during the Olympics in Vancouver.

Brian In Sarnia
said

Gee. No Bank taxes and a business deal done. That was sooooo worth it Steve... you know, the insane bill, the trauma to those business owners in Toronto, and a further divided country. Yup, well worth the cost. Next time, have a Skype conference and save us all.

common sense isn't common ...
said

So really ... all the work was done behind the scenes and in advance by staffers ... the communique could have been issued after these leaders met via VIDEOCONFERENCE ... no need for the billion $ photo ops !! Extravagance and conspicious consumption ... perception is reality.

Amanda
said

I realize that face to face conversations are nice to have when talking about these issues but at what cost. Our country is already broke and now to have to deal with all of the violece and vandalism...do it over video conference for god sakes, the trouble is not worth the handshake!!!

Mike in Waterloo
said

So nothing beats seeing people face to face and shaking hands.But for some unknown reason, he needs a billion dollars to protect him and his cronies from the people of Canada, not the window smashers and car burners, but regular everyday people.And further, he extracts money at the point of a gun to point those guns at us.Well, buy into it if you will, grant them their excuses, their secrecy, their free meals and booze, entertainment and every nature of unearned waste, then tell me how he is, or any politician of any stripe, so very different from Kim Jong il?One law for the rich and well connected and different law for the rest of us.But it will continue, for certain.The liberals, the ndp and the not so conservative cpc, greens as well, will run roughshod over every Right, or remove it outright, and rule this country with the velvet hammer of buying people with checks and call them gifts. And call it 'giving back.'It was our money in the first place, so why take it and pretend it's their money to give back?We need far less government. Far less.We need to reclaim our Freedom, as it is the only tool that can keep the state in check.Freedom is power in the hands of citizens.What we have now, is regulations that render us as subjects.Learn the difference between Citizens and subjects as it is a sea of separation between the two.

donna stewart
said

ok citizens - LETS HAVE OUR OWN G8 OR G20 -WHATEVER - AND GET TO KNOW EACH OTHER AND FIND OUT WHAT EACH OTHER IS DOING - have a party and charge it to the prime minister and his cronies!!!!!!

Allan MacD
said

So we paid $1.2-billion, much of which did not go to security at all, to see how low Canada's respect for the right to peaceful protest can go. I don't know who this Black Bloc is or is not, but I'm not sure who/what to believe after Montebello, PQ where 3 police officers were caught wearing black 'anarchist' clothes trying to incite a riot (it's on YouTube), only for their police force to admit to it when a cell phone video showed the 'anarchists' wearing the same police boots as the actual uniformed cops.Another thing. If camera operators were able to get so close to the 'anarchist' while he/she was torching a police car, how the hell am I supposed to believe that the police didn't have a chance to intervene? This is plain old weird and disturbing. People need to start reading about early 20th-century history, and now.

Jay
said

He can try to justify the cost all he wants. When the G20 was held in Pittsburgh, they only spent $18 million on security. How come they could deal with the same kind of people, for only 1.8% of the total money we spent? Those that think the costs are justified need only do a few google searches to see how much other countries spent on security in previous years. The numbers may surprise you...

Jay
said

Ummm... it would have been the same cost if the Libs had run the show. Tired of all of the nonsense comments here... someone always has something to complain about and it's not going to change if the 'other side' is in charge. The only difference is who is spending our money. Ref PM Harper, he's done more for this country since being office than any PM in the last 20 years. So, give it a rest, haters. I almost hope he wins the next one with a majority. Then talk to me about about what this country really wants. :)

Jon in London ON
said

It's either this or one world government. The protests would be the same.

ProudCanadian77
said

This man indeed is a joke!

Niagara George
said

Let them meet whenever they want, but do it in a logical place. I would love to have a party that cost $10 000. Even $1000 would be nice, but when I look at the budget, I know that isn't possible. King Stephen should have done the same thing. He has made us all into fools, by spending our hard-earned tax dollars on this gabfest/photo op. I can't wait for the Auditor General's report on this one. At least there won't be any comments from Steve about Adscam and the Gun Registry for awhile. The neoCons have their own boondoggle now.

caper
said

Let the G20 Leaders visit some remote community where all the expensive hotel suites are hard to find or do not exist Why do they have to live so richly lives?! Maybe the Harper "thugs" wouldn't find it so easy to attend either! This was pure foolishness of Harper to hold this event in downtown Toronto. I know he held it there thinking he was going to get some more votes! Hope he lost what he had!

Kevin
said

What a joke John's comment is.

Joe Szentirmay
said

Right on Mr.Prime Minister, you got my vote!

Dean in Abby
said

Why don't the "leaders" have their meetings in a secret location and time. Afterwards they can make all of their announcements. No one has to know when or where the meeting is especially the useless vandals that inevitably show up to destroy property. Besides, I wonder why we didn't use bullets on the vandals while they were destroying public and private property. It would have been cheaper and most likely less paperwork for all involved.

Drew from T.O
said

Thank you Mr. Harper for putting our great country infront of the world. We are and will continue to be looked up to by the countries and people of the world. Thanks to you and your government. Great Job!!! Keep up the good work!!!

Dale
said

Stephen Harper is the best Prime Minister that Canada has had in my lifetime!

Mike
said

Nice Job Steve

John, Halifax, NS
said

What a joke this "man" is.

Rashmi
said

From my condo balcony I saw people breaking windows and cop cars on fire.... This meeting should never have been held in Toronto. Next time, hold it in a remote northern place like Inuvik. I dare the Black Blocheads to travel there!

Donado, Saint John
said

Happened to see interview this am on CTV. Very reasonable approach by Canada. Well said Mr. PM.