GG approves PM's request to suspend Parliament

Another suspenseful day in Ottawa brought the answer to one crucial question: Would Stephen Harper's survival plans work? And the answer was yes. Now the question remains, will the mind boggling power struggle of the past week now give way to some serious non-partisan work to bolster the economy?

CTV News: Craig Oliver on Michaelle Jean's approval of Stephen Harper's request

The Governor General has granted Stephen Harper's request and has suspended parliament until January, but will it be enough to save the Conservative government come January?

CTV News: Correspondents discuss what the prorogue of parliament will mean for Canadians and the government

Will the closing down of parliament on Thursday be the pause that refreshes the federal government and bring relief to the minds of Canada's who are worried about the sagging economy?

CTV News: Janet Dirks has more on the subject that's on the minds of Canadians everywhere

The House of Commons may be dark and empty, but all across the country Canadians are speaking their minds like never before, and the anger is split between the coalition and the Conservatives.

CTV Newsnet: Former NDP leader Ed Broadbent, helped negotiate the coalition

Ed Broadbent, the well-respected former NDP leader, says there is a mean-spirited aspect to Stephen Harper that was evident when he added elements to the economic statement that would be unacceptable for opposition parties.

CTV Newsnet: Former Conservative MP Deborah Gray on the economic update that kicked off the crisis

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CTV Newsnet: Greg Weston, Sun Media Group, on what kind of precedent the GG's decision sets

Many constitutional experts suggest the GG's decision to prorogue Parliament in the face of a confidence motion sets a dangerous president, but it could only be dangerous if a future prime minister abuses it and that would be self-defeating.

CTV Newsnet: CTV Newsnet: Bernie Gauthier, image and communication consultant, on how the leaders are doing

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CTV Newsnet: Luc Lavoie, former spokesperson for Brian Mulroney

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CTV Newsnet: Terry Stratton, Conservative Senator on how Westerners are viewing the political debate

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CTV News: Graham Richardson on Harper's request to suspend parliament

The Governor General has allowed Prime Minister Stephen Harper to prorogue Parliament, allowing the Conservative government to live until at least late January.

CTV Newsnet: Prime Minister Stephen Harper speaks after meeting with Governor General

The prime minister holds a press conference after the Governor General allows Harper to prorogue Parliament, saying the economy will be the first matter of business.

CTV Newsnet: Prime Minister Stephen Harper takes questions about how he work with the opposition

The prime minister takes questions after the Governor General allows Harper to prorogue Parliament, including a question about how he will extend his hand to the opposition parties in order to make Parliament work.

CTV Newsnet: Prime Minister Stephen Harper takes questions about whether he is simply delaying the inevitable

The prime minister takes questions after the Governor General allows Harper to prorogue Parliament, including a question about he is simply delaying the inevitable by having the GG Parliament prorogued and the dangers of aligning with the Bloc.

CTV Newsnet: Liberal Leader Stephane Dion reacts to the suspension of Parliament

The Liberal leader speaks after Parliament has been official prorogued, saying that he hopes Harper will follow the lead of the coalition and support issues that benefit all Canadians in the future.

CTV Newsnet: Liberal Leader Stephane Dion takes questions after the suspension of Parliament

The Liberal leader takes questions from the media Parliament has been official prorogued, including a question on if the issues on the economy are included the budget, will the coalition support it.

CTV Newsnet: NDP Leader Jack Layton shares his thoughts after Jean's decision

Speaking from the halls of Parliament Hill, Jack Layton reveals what he plans to do next.

CTV Newsnet: Bloc Leader Gilles Duceppe reacts to the decision to prorogue Parliament

Bloc Leader Gilles Duceppe reacts to the decision to prorogue Parliament, calling the prime minister a liar and saying that his party has proposals for the good of Canada.

CTV Newsnet: Antonia Maioni, director of the McGill Institute for the Study of Canada, says Harper's 'date' with Quebec is over

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CTV Newsnet: Jim Travers, national affairs columnist at the Toronto Star and Margaret Wente, columnist with The Globe and Mail, discuss what happens next

What happens now? How will Harper deal with this continuing political crisis? Canada's leading columnists discuss the historic times in Ottawa.

CTV Newsnet: Correspondents discuss the Governor General's decision and what is next for Canada

CTV News has learned Gov. Gen Michaelle Jean has approved Prime Minister Stephen Harper's request to suspend Parliament.

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CTV.ca News Staff

Date: Thu. Dec. 4 2008 12:34 PM ET

Gov. Gen. Michaelle Jean has approved Prime Minister Stephen Harper's request to suspend Parliament, agreeing to put the government on hold until the end of January.

Harper addressed the media at just before noon after about two-and-a-half hours of meetings at Rideau Hall.

"Following my advice, the Governor General has agreed to prorogue Parliament," Harper told reporters from the front steps of the building.

He said the decision reflects the will of Canadians.

"Last Friday I asked Canadians to give us their opinion on the parliamentary situation. That feedback has been overwhelming and very clear. They want Canada's government to continue to work on the agenda they voted for -- our plan to strengthen the economy."

Harper also said that when Parliament resumes, the first item on the agenda will be the presentation of the federal budget and he will spend his time working almost exclusively between now and then on the fiscal blueprint.

He opened the door to co-operating with the opposition parties on the budget, saying Canadians expect all parties "to get on with it."

"It's the opportunity to work in the next six weeks on these measures, and I invite all the opposition parties, especially those that have a responsibility to the whole of Canada, to work with us, to inform us of their detailed position and we will be there to listen," Harper said in French.

Harper was seeking a suspension of Parliament in order to avoid a confidence motion scheduled for Monday that would have likely toppled his government.

The Liberals and NDP have agreed to form a coalition, with the support of the Bloc Quebecois, and have signaled their intention to bring down the government over the fiscal update that was introduced last week and would have come before Commons for a vote on Monday.

They had hoped Jean would deny the prorogation request and let the confidence motion go ahead. If it did, and the government fell, Jean would have to decide whether to send Canadians to the polls for another election, or grant the coalition the chance to win the confidence of the House of Commons and possibly take over government.

Jean returned home early from a central European tour on Wednesday to deal with the political crisis that has gripped the nation.

The decision Thursday followed a rare nationally televised address by Harper on Wednesday night.

In the five-minute pre-taped broadcast Harper said the opposition plans to oust his government and seize power would cripple the country's economy.

Harper also signaled he would be willing to work with the opposition parties in order to deliver an economic plan that will help Canada navigate perilous economic times.

Liberal Leader Stephane Dion also took to the airwaves Wednesday, though only after a major delay that saw national networks filling time as they waited for the tape to arrive.

"Stephen Harper still refuses to propose measures to stimulate the Canadian economy," said Dion. "His mini-budget last week demonstrated that his priority is partisanship and settling ideological scores.

The NDP's Jack Layton said Wednesday that the Conservatives have been wasting time with partisan politics instead of dealing with the economy.

"Stephen Harper simply refused to act," he said, adding the Conservatives also attacked the rights of workers and women.

The opposition began to cobble together their coalition after the Tories proposed last week to cut public funding for political parties as a part of their fall economic update.

The update also lacked a sufficient stimulus package, the opposition has said.

Comments on this story had to be closed due to technical errors with our publishing system

Comments are now closed for this story

Peter Rapsey
said

Although I do not believe that Harper deserves to stay, or is good for Canada in any way, I hope he reaches out for ideas from all 3 parties to rid Canada of his inaction, and to start to de-poison parliament.
The only clear thing after all this is that both Dion and Harper are finished as National politicians (I give Harper 6 mos.), and Jack is over his head. Duceppe was the only sincere and competent leader of the bunch.

wasyl mackesey
said

With the state of the economy by the time january ends there could be a lot more plant closing. GG should resign if this occurs. This is not the time to suspend parliment.

John
said

Bad Call GG; Mutual Funds will continue to flutter down like falling leaves for another 2 months +. I was looking forward to living under a Government elected by the majority of Canadian voters.

CDM
said

Best decision by the GG of the available options.

Firstly, supporters of the coalition fail to realize that, even if they did take over, it would take until at least February for a change of power and budget, so there is no immediate advantage and no immediate fiscal stimulas, despite what Layton and Dion have fooled you into believing.

Secondly, it would be foolish to offer an auto maker bailout until we see what the U.S. and Obama do. If we throw billions at the auto makers and the U.S. doesn't, we can kiss that money goodbye.

Lastly, if the coalition still wants to vote down the Conservatives and take power (which is all this is about) in January, then vote down the government and then have the guts to fold your tents and run as a single party. Fat chance of that happening.

Laurie Atkins, Mississauga, ON
said

I want to express my concern of what is about to happen in Parliament on Monday. The very thought of bringing down the Government of Canada in this way is totally wrong and undermines the peoples right to democratic process. Although I did not vote for Mr Harper in the last election I still believe he has been placed in this important position for such a time as this. It is wrong for the other parties to gang up forces like this. Not two months ago we, as a nation, voted in a minority government and the country should be run accordingly. Instead of the back stabbing, childish play that is going on, one would think it would force all parties to work together for the good of the country and not for the promotion of power hungry politicians.
Coalition with a party that wants to split this wonderful country of ours is a frightening thought. An imbalance of power will stir up the fires and leave our nation broken and our economy shattered.

Sue - Orillia
said

What a relief. Oh ya and why was everybody outraged that the conservative party wants to save taxpayers 30 million dollars and stop public funding of political parties? This was the dastardly and horrible thing that the prime minister proposed that sent the opposition over the edge therby making him at fault and the whole cause of their actions. The conservative government stood to lose the most money if funding was removed. If the conservatives are willing to operate on donations from their members only what's wrong with the rest of the parties doing that? I for one don't appreciate any part of my taxes going to Jack Layton or Dion and especially not to fund a separatist party whose only election expense is to rent a bus and ride around one province. Let's get our outrage into proper perspective and aim it at the right people.

Brian - Guelph Ontario
said

Congrats to the GG. I am a Liberal who does not want a coalition government. I would like to vote for the next PM...hopefully it will be Justin Trudeau.

Kim
said

Hopefully all sides can WORK TOGETHER on the budget. I'm just glad that a coalition will not be formed.

Kim
said

I'm honestly surprised at some of these responses. I considered the coalition treason. It's absolutely ridiculous that the election obviously meant nothing to those eastern morons. I am very grateful for the GG's right and sensible decision. It's nice to see someone thinking properly. Good luck to Stephen as he tries to work with the other idiots though.

Peter in Calgary
said

What a terrible precedent. There's no turning back now.
The Hon. Paul Martin didn't choose to use such tactics to rescue himself from a Harper non-confidence vote.

We need an appointed Deputy Prime Minister NOW. What's Harper afraid of??

Ian from Regina
said

I wonder if anyone agrees with me: The instigator of this so called crisis was Jack Layton
1. In his public statements at the time of the election he took the role on the Leader of the Opposition on himself and insisted on a hard line, particularly with his opinion the increase in taxes. (He leads the 4th party)
2. He had talked to Duceppe and "had him on board a long time ago" (He leads the 4th party)
3. He went to the leader of the opposition for support and talked him into support by ramping up the economic stimulus issue. When in fact it was public funding of political parties was the issue. (He leads the 4th party)
4. When the coalition was formed although Mr. Dion was appointed he insisted on have his pubic say along with Mr5. Dion.
5. Today he wanted an audience with the GG even although constitutional experts would have told him, if he asked, that the GG has only one political advisor and that is the Prime Minister. (He leads the 4th party)
The government was always working in the best interests of all Canadians and was implimenting their stimulus package throughout the whole crisis. If the GG had allowed the coalition to become government we woulition to become government we would not have a budget until March or April as they would had to talk to the the experts too
So Jack, good try! Put aside your partisan politics and get on with helping the country out of the crisis.
(You lead the 4th party)

Karin Gree, Princeton, B.C.
said

I support the Harper government in this political crisis. I am perfectly happy with their fiscal policy because it is not based on panic. Rather - we are in the best economic shape of Western countries - all of which are trapped in a global financial crisis. I have watched the CTV coverage all morning. I found Harper's statement quite acceptable and feel he has portrayed the situation well. I have now heard Duceppe and Layton respond and I feel utterly disgusted by the blatant fear mongering and distortion of the Canadian reality. I am also quite annoyed by the fact that three individuals, representing one side of the issue, are given equal media support to put out their point of view. THEY are the people who launched this attack on the elected government. THEY, without consulting their constituents, decided what is best for ALL of us. Now, from the living room, I hear CTV pundits begin their attack on Harper's leadership, followed by Dion's surly complaints about conservative dishonesty and deception! How revolting, coming from this - least popular candidate for Prime Minister - most self-serving and devious of the lot! CTV, GIVE IT A REST! Your Liberal bias is showing. I really don't know how to express my anger and disgust at the Liberals and the NDP, both parties I have supported in past times of my life. I left the NDP for thget Canadians how Harper was 'attacked' during the election debates and even Ms May poking her finger into his face.
This hatred of a man who is doing a good job in our country is transparent !

Glenna Haller
said

Thank you Your Excellency! I am so glad you had a guts to do the right thing and uphold the election results.

Now, Mr. Harper, please take time to actually speak with your opposition and include them in the budget discussions.

And please MP's, please actually speak to your constituents and see what real life Canadians want.

I hope that when the budget is released in January, that the MP's vote according to their constituents wishes and not along party lines. It is time for you to remember who you work for.

Now, let's get to work and come up with solutions that will save this great country of ours.

Glenna Haller
Guelph, ON

Ian from Regina
said

Rob
said

I wish she would have toppled Harper... then we could have voted again, and given Harper a majority! (I've been following Harper's financial advice, and I've had my best investment year ever!

Canmore Nate
said

To Amanda in Calgary,

We, the people of Canada ALREADY did elect our government/MPs - when you voted you didn't pick the outcome/configuration - that was left to be determined based on the choice of all the MPs elected.

We tried the 1st way by giving the party with the largest total of MPs and that obviously didn't work after all the venomous measures included in the fiscal update showed us. Now the second try should be to allow the other members who have found a common path to do what they feel is needed for the country.

It's too bad you didn't actually READ the constitution instead of wishing/making up your own "rules for the Canadian democracy"

Chris, Belle River, ON
said

The GG did an excellent job she didn't rush into a decision, she listen to her advisers and she made the decision to grant Harper the grace to build some bridges and PM Harper wasted no time he invited the opposition leaders to submit their ideas to the PM offices we will try and fit them into the budget. The PM extended the olive branch. Bravo Pm Harper and Thank you GG.

Hank in Calgary
said

Well, now the Conservative Party can get to the matter at hand: Harper's replacement. As Harper was the ultimate cause of this crisis, his party should immediately move to replace him (I don't believe he would do the honorable thing and step down.

We cannot have someone who constantly taunts the opposition in the dangerous manner he has, and will likely continue to. The Governor General has granted a reprieve from the crisis, but, undoubtedly, Harper will bring us back to the brink sometime in the future.

Scott - YWG
said

On behalf of the country, thank you Your Excellency!

If the government falls early next year - let the people have their say again, not a bunch of political cronies and they're back-room dealings in Ottawa.

Bruce from Calgary
said

Does anyone here know what the word "Brinkmanship" means.
It's done. Let's get on with it. And if anyone of you has a clue on how to help the economy, write your MP. Stop the whining....

Jeff
said

At a time when the economy of the world is in the worse condition in years; we have the leaders of the Liberal, NDP and Bloc parties creating a climate of uncertainty in this country. I for one am glad that the GG chose the only logical solution to this crisis.

Jim Robinson
said

I am extreemly disappointed with the G.G. decission to suspend Parliment. The country is facing a financial crises that needs to be worked on now. In seven weeks the crises will be worse and Canada has no plan to deal with it.
I also feel that the G.G. needs to tell all Canadians how and why she choose to let Prime Minister Harper off the hook.
He created this feascal to bait the opposition and now refuses to accept the blame!
Prime Minister Harper resign now!

Jim Robinson

Bill from London
said

I want to start a class action lawsuit against the coalition for wasting 300 million on an election.. I want my money back.. Citizens against the Coalition will launched numerous lawsuits against the coalition for individuals and families affected by the recent hostile takeover of the Canadian Parliament which has led to various cases of misuse of power and backroom shenanigans'.

Symptoms of Coalitionitis can include nausea, vomiting, cramps and fever. If you are concerned you are experiencing symptoms of Coalitionitis, we recommend you contact a medical doctor without delay.

As will be reported by national newspapers, television, radio, and local media, Citizens against the Coalition will file a first class action lawsuits in Canada on behalf of Coalitionitis victims and recalled vote casters.

This Citizens Group will launch class action lawsuits in various provinces across Canada concerning the Coalitionitis outbreak, which has caused at least 300 million in wasted tax dollars, the separatists actually being legitimized and serious illness by people who have ingested a host of BS spewed by the Coalition under the umbrella of no confidence.

Our class action lawsuits seek compensation for all Canadians affected by the recalls including:

families of Coalitionitis victims,
people who have been sick or continue to suffer from Coalitionitis related illnesses,
people who are worried they may have eaten contaminated propaganda and fear they may become ill due to Coalitionitis
individual votes and casters of recalled votes,
any persons or businesses who have incurred medical expenses, loss of employment or business income, due to an unneeded bailout packages, and
any other persons or businesses who have been harmed or suffered losses as a result of the Coalitionitis outbreak caused by a Coalition.

David Meaford ON
said

While I am really undecided on who is right I am really concerned who is minding the house during this suspension of Parliament. No one has mentioned this.

Jake
said

Well done. A gov. for the people voted in by the people. Lets give Mr. Harper a chance to table an economic plan and a budget for tfor these troubled times. In a country where we had the worst voter turn out ever,during these tring times he deserves atleast that.And for all the grumble bums...did you vote?Silence and indifference as to who led us here got us here. Mr. Harper is our chosen PM. I say let it ride until the budget is released and then if the people want change let their voices be heard at the polls, all of us.

Andrew
said

Under the leadership of Jimmy Carter the Community Reinvestment Act of 1977 was enacted in the United States. Three decades latter and coupled with sound accounting practices such as "Mark at Market Value" triggered the current Global economic crisis. The current US leadership of Obama-Reid-Paulsoy will not repeal the root of the problem, therefore prolonging the coming of lasting stability. In time of such uncertainty a counter balance is much needed in Canada in the form of a staple and strong conservative government. This can only be accomplished in two ways. One is to encourage enough fiscally conservative liberals to cross the aisle and give Harper a majority (very unlikely since Dion failed to attracted any of the sort to his caucus) or calling for January election and have the people of Canada be persuaded to place their country ahead of their party affiliations. Canada does not need its own version of Jimmy Carter in 2009.

Kim Finkle
said

Our politicians need to put their political ambitions aside and get down to the task of working together to represent all Canadians.

Peter
said

My fear is that by the time the budget is tabled to parliament the economic crisis,will be far more severe than it is.Anyone willing to guess how many jobs could possibly be lost between now and the end of January,this is a very bad scenario,proroging parliament just puts more Canadians in jeporady,all politicians are responsible for this mess but we know who will do the suffering over there mistakes once again!

L & L Edmonton
said

As the election results were revealed the Liberals and NDP publicly promised,publicly, to co-opertate with the elected government for the good of the country. They have reneged on yet another promise to the Candian people. If the Canadian People had wanted a Liberal/NDP/or "Provincial" Bloc party to run this country they would have elected them then. Thank you GG for making the right decision and we expect to see the coalition fall apart as they are already showing sings of not being able to get along with each other.

Manly - Oshawa
said

Now we can pressure all our elected MP's to work with the other parties for a successful budget that keeps Canada strong in the face of the economic turbulance. We need to end this fighting since we just had an election. I voted for a member of parliment that works and gets results for Canada. I didn't vote for a coalition to bully another party. We need unity in the house of commons and a willingness to work together. People need to accept other parties ideas if it is what is best for the country. I voted for a person and not the party. The lines of communication are open so put the egos aside and get things hammered out for the good of our country.

Diane, Ontario
said

In Mr. Harpers speach today, he said he would like to hear the oppostions ideas for the budg ideas for the budget in Jan. Dion said later it, its not about the economy its Mr Harper they want out. Canada voted and Harper was chosen. Dions words make it clear. It never was anything but personal feelings and power, that dion and layton put us through this and for the bloc their agenda to break up Canada. I want my Canada back where we the people have our vote respected. Not these 3 fellows taking our votes away. also Did you know that Bob Ray created a very similar coalition in Ontario with the Liberals of the time when he was the NDP leader. So it's reasonable to assume that Bob Ray would think he could help implement a similar plan up in Ottawa. In fact, Bob Ray stated during the evening of the last election that they needed to form a coalition.

Jeff Jewell, Mission BC
said

Democracy delayed is democracy denied. Shame on the PM, who seems never to cease abusing his power of office and public trust. The only remedy for Canada and the Conservatives is to be rid of this man.

Now that the US will finally be rid of its right-wing dictatorial abuser of power, it is time for Canada to dump this 'my way or the highway' Bush 'wannabe'.

Diane, Winnipeg
said

I am glad that there is going to be a cooling off period; hopefully progress will be made. I was impressed with the speeches from Dion and Harper. Jack Layton; however, was pretty smug and uncompromising. Doesn't fit well with a party leader.

Bryan
said

Very wise choice. To simply allow the coalition to govern the country may be legal and within the constitution, it certainly is unethical.

I had voted for the NDP because let's face it - they won a landslide victory in my riding. For them to say they can allocate my vote and share it with two other parties is not what I intended nor what I want. In fact, they, along with the Liberals are guilty of fraud. At no point during the campaign did they say they would form a coalition government. They took votes under false pretences, all the while knowing they would take any opportunity to topple the government. To falsely represent yourself to gain power meets the criminal definition of fraud.

Imagine a country with Dion as PM. He couldn't even take the initiative to send his tape to the networks on time. If you can't do something as simple as that, how can you run a country?

The coalition can say Harper doesn't have the guts to face a confidence vote. I say to the coalition - do you not have confidence in yourselves to allow the citizens of this country to vote you into power? Are you afraid that you would lose the 12 seats Harper needs for a majority? Who's the coward now?

Trevor Ragan from Dawson Creek BC
said

Let me get this straight, the GG has the right to make the choice and you're unhappy because because she didn't see a coalition government between parties with radically different agendas as something that should be decided rashly before parliment even met? Controls and checks like this are put in place to protect us from rash or unwise actions. It's either time for lawful parlimentry reform or to support Canada's proper government.

Rich
said

This is definitely the right thing to do on the part of the Governor General, although it may not change much. The three opposition leaders have made it quite apparent that their blind thirst for power will not be quenched until they have it, regardless of what Stephen Harper's government does between now and January 27th. We as Canadians need to stand up and let our voices be heard. This coalition of the unworthy cannot be allowed to stage their power driven bloodless coup, since their reasoning for it is unsound. To not even give the rightfully elected government the opportunity to table a full budget is wrong on many different levels. Now these three wanna be kings will use this prorogation of parliament as an excuse for a non confidence vote come January. Shocking but not surprising.

Liz
said

I haven't read all the comments, but it seems to me that some people think that it was OK for a coalition "government" to form, but not for Stephen Harper to prorogue. They both had a constitutional right and they both took it. They both had legal means and they both used them. However, it seems that what's good for the goose isn't good for the gander. Suck it up people!

Dion and Layton needed Duceppe for a majority. I'm sorry, but since when did the interests of ONE party of ONE province represent the will of the people? And it IS a coalition of three because there are three signatures. Dion is lying when he says it's just a coalition between two. Dion and the Liberals garnered fewer votes in the last election since who knows when. And this is the person we want as an interim Prime Minister? Are you kidding me? And since when does throwing money at anybody fix anything? Has it worked so far? We have one whole province that we try to appease all the time and can they ever be satisfied? NO! Because throwing money around to appease is like throwing money to a spoiled brat - they don't appreciate, don't use it wisely, and they'll always be back (ungratefully) for more. It seems common sense is not so common. Should the govenment help out the country in tough economic times? Yes, but prudently, not recklessly.

BMann
said

Bravo to Prime Minister Stephen Harper for trying to keep Canada together and not giving in to a bunch of bandits. Canadians have spoken, we do not want a coalition government.

George
said

I have rather conservative views but this was a totally stupid decision, meddling in the parliamentary system. Since day one I felt she was a huge waste of money; arrogant and incompetent. Today's decision just confirmed my opinion. Time to get rid of this position and let Canada be more democratic!

Fred Butler, Surrey BC
said

The crisis is on hold but the rhetoric intensifies.

I agree with the GG but I question her credentials. How can a political appointee with no particular background be entrusted with such an important decision. It would be like me making the decision.

Samuel from Edmonton
said

I think that this was the best decision. It wouldn't have been very good to do another federal election since there was one very recently and most voters have shown that they would like Stephen Harper as leader and not Stephane Dion or Jack Layton. A confidence vote would have toppled the conservative government and most canadians could have gotten a leader for whom they did not vote. A government formed by three coalition parties would be unstable and would exacerbate the economic and political instabilities. It is also counterproductive to put a leader for the country whose own political party wants to replace in the near future. This would increase instability in the coalition government and consequently budget and economic instability.

Sylvia Powers
said

This is distressing that Harper should be allowed to suspend parliament rather than face the music for his insensitive budget. It is exciting that the other three parties are willing to work together for the benefit of Canadians. Now we will have to listen to the negative ads that the Conservatives put out against the other parties for another 2 months. I guess Harper wants to stay in the Prime Minister's House over Christmas.

Jim - Calgary
said

If these Elected Idiots can be gone for 2 months, you really have to ask what we are paying them for in the first place.
The whole thing is crazy and they all should be off with No Pay!!!!

Ronald in Ottawa
said

The budget in January will likely have many of the items that the coalition was asking for. If they then vote non-confidence out of pure spite, then we should have an election immediately. The Conservatives will be voted back in with a majority and will finally be able to get something done for the good of the country instead of dealing with sniping and obstruction from the opposition.

D in Calgary
said

I would like to see a poll which reflects what industries people want to "stimulate", as I imagine we all have different ideas. The main US stimulas package was for the banks and lending institutions as to free up CREDIT so people could BORROW more money. Canada's banks are still posting profits. Should we bail out the big three? How do you stimulate the forest industry, build houses and give them away? What stimulation would the coalition consider to "stimulate" the oilt; the oil patch as the price of oil slides? If in fact this mess is all about a stimulas package to "save my job", how is it going to work? Almost a trillion dollars of stimulas later and jobs are still being lost in the US.

randall
said

Accusing Harper of partisanship but supporting a coalition of 3 rivals who would cut of each others throat for an edge in power is simply hypocritical. I'm glad this foolishness has been delayed, allowing time for a real solution for our country.

On a side note, the Bloc should not be eligible for federal standing as they are not a national party and are taking seats from the people who fight every day for our country and use them as a bargaining chip to further their own agenda.

Ian Taylor
said

This is a total disgrace, with the current economic crisis, what do we do "Close Parliament". Harper is running away from governing Canada, hiding behind the GG skirt.
This is not democracy, it is "Harperism" at it's worst, I will never vote Conservative again.

Daryl - Edmonton
said

The GG has abdicated her role in government and made her position irrelevant. Her decision to prorogue Parliament has de facto turned Canada into a dictatorship after every election. The GG by her action has determined that the Prime Minister of the day can do whatever he wants including avoiding the will of Parliament. It would appear that we must now move our government more to the U.S. model with set election dates and an elected Prime Minister who may or may not have the most representatives of his party in the Commons. It is a shame.

Michael L.
said

Yes, she made a diffic made a difficult but appropriate decision given that ALL parties concerned clearly need to cool down their rhetoric and at least give the duly-elected minority government a chance to table their economic stimulus measures in a proper budget.

There was little precedent for her to do anything other than what she has decided to do in response to a direct request from Mr. Harper. The supposed loss of the �confidence of the house� seemed more like an unprincipled power grab motivated by understandable partisan anger rather than genuine concerns regarding the lack of economic stimuli.

If, after returning and considering the merits of the budget, the House deems it unsupportable, let them defeat the government in a truly legitimate confidence vote. Then the GG assess whether this coalition has enough staying power to form a government or she can send us back to the polls.

At least at that juncture, the electorate will be in a better position to judge both the economic worthiness of the Conservative�s budget as well as the quality, viability and specific proposals of the coalition.

Sean - Perth
said

I'm glad that Parliament is done for a while. I mean, they just started meeting again for the first time in months, these past couple of weeks were really tough on them I guess. They need this vacation time. After all, we don't give them a 110% pension so they have to actually work.
It's time the Parliament did what they were elected to do, form a government and govern our country. Obviously this government isn't working so let's move on to one that will.

Fred Kikkert
said

I am glad that this happend this way. Canada has spent enough money on elections in the past few years. We do not need to easte money on another, with the way the ecomoney is.

Bee
said

Maybe this will give all of them time to think about their actions and words which impact all Canadians and the world at large. Our honesty,integrity and image is at stake. Lets make the best impression, not the worst.

Susan Gilson
said

Thank goodness the G.G. calmed things down for now!
Those of us who were very happy with the results on election day, (could not stomach
Dion as P.M.)
Watching parliament everyday, and Mike Duffy, I understand the ups and downs of politics, but this coalition was too extreme. Harper almost had a majority this time! It could work in other circumstances, but not when it took all three, to run the government!

Karen (Kitchener)
said

I'm happy the Gov. Gen. let Canadians speak for themselves in this democratic country!

Aaron in Saint John
said

The Canadian People did decide on this Government, it is a minority one and the coalition is complete fairly ball. Harper (mini W)tried to pull a fast one and got called on it. The GG just showed her lack of confidence too!

Rob Perrin in AB
said

A good decision and the only logical one. It is surely my opinion that anyone who supports this hostile take over of the Canadian people does not believe in democracy, basic human rights or freedom.

Glenn in Calgary
said

Any "coalition" that has to depend on keeping a separatist party happy to get their backing is not the kind of government that I want to see for Canada. This is the only choice the GG had. Let's let cooler heads prevail!

Joanne Lachowiez
said

Congratulations to Prime Minister Harper. Atleast, someone is trying to keep Canada together. Is anyone listening to the fact that Canadians have voted a few weeks ago. We rejected Stephan Dion 7 weeks ago, and during the last few days, he is showing us, again, why we rejected him. The Liberal Party is showing itself to be split and disorganized party, and to enter into a coalition with the NDP and Bloc is unacceptable. Let's work together for the good er for the good of all Canadians.

Aaron S Patterson
said

Aaron, Nova Scotia
I disagree with the Governor General to prorogue the House of Commons. Stephen Harper can not run from this forever. I agree with Mr. Jack Layton, Mr. Doucette and Mr. S. Dion. Stephen Harper will lose in January 2009.

Carol
said

Thank you for hearing the voice of the people Your Excellency!! If a coalition is EVER going to rule this country it should be because the people of Canada have supported it through an electoral mandate!!!!! Not through a coup style takeover!

Ben Rosser
said

Harper now looks very relieved and happy.

I am disgusted, totally disgusted, with what Harper has done. Lies, bullying, instigating regional divisiveness, paralyzing parliament - everything and anything to stay in power. Unbelievable!

More than ever I am embarrassed to be living on the Canadian prairies. The general feeling out here is moronic; why did we have an election anyways if the results didn't matter?, why did we bother voting if our votes didn't count? those politicians are awful, why can't they make it work? The coalition is stealing power? The group think out here is as one would predict from a grade seven class - dense and knee jerk beyond all comprehension.

Yesterday at the University of Saskatchewan speaking with colleagues and students I was disheartened by their lack of insight. And those are the educated folks!

I am, of course, disappointed in the decision of the GG. If I were GG, I would squirreled myself away for days with my staff and non-partisan advisors that I would have brought in to pour over Constitutional Law and historic precedent. If Canadian Constitutional Law and Canadian Historic precedent were mirky, I would then have look at British & Commonwealth Parliamentary history, law and precedent.

There is no evidence that any of that was done. All we saw was a jet lagged GG returning from some comparatively trivial duties to meet with Harper the next morning.

I think it incumbent upon the GG's office to provide an explanation for her decision. For the sake of the office, hopefully the explanation will be rooted in law and precedent, and not her own feelings, or adherence to vague guidelines.

Tom Hawk
said

Thank you Governor General !!!

Thank goodness we have a female Governor General who can rise above the childish "boy games" of our so-called political "leaders".

Joyeux No�l Canada !

Tom - Wpg

ErinL
said

Why is there no news reporting the real motivation behind this coalition? It is a blatant struggle for power by two party leaders bitter that were not elected by the Canadian people. Jack Layton said today that no matter what the Conservatives present as a new budget proposal, the NDP and Liberals will move for a non-confidence vote.

That�s like saying �I don�t like you and I�m not playing with you no matter what � I�m taking my toys and going home�. It�s not an exaggeration; both left parties are acting like young school children, simply upset they did not win student president

They bitch and whine that Harper is not holding true the principles of democracy, but last time I checked, one of the founding principles was the right of the people to elect their own government.

Which we did.

To say that the majority would have voted another way is simply speculation. There was NO Liberal � NDP � Bloc party to chose. And if there was, I believe that there are enough voters who may support an individual party in that group, but would never concede to the other two parties governing our country.

So � The people HAVE spoken! Let the choice of the Canadian people govern. Stop trying to claw and back-door you way to the top Mr. Dion � I thought you were going to resign anyway? No matter � we all know that Layton will have you pushed out of power in no time. And when that happens, the worst thing that can happen to Canada will come to term � NDP calling the shots.

Marion
said

I am glad that the Gov. Gen. listened to Harper. She truly made the right decision for the people of Canada. If the people had wanted the other parties in, they would have been elected. Let's hope Harper comes through with a budget that is accepted and agreeable by all. I cannot believe such powers could have pulled together and stooped so low as to try and push for a Coalition Government. The people of this country must have the right to vote on what happens with out government not this Group of 3. We, the people, must be heard now once and for all.

Fraser Nicholson
said

For the first time in my 55 years, I am truly ashamed of Canada. We have what is probably the best country in the world. Need I say, however, that it is a Parliamentary democracy, and therefore the supremacy of Parliament matters a lot to me. Apparently, today, it doesn't. So do we now have a 7 week "regime" while we wait to get our Parliamentary democracy back again? This is the most appalling and undemocratic event in Canada in my lifetime.

John Sinodinos
said

Harper has mislead all of his voters! 1) Passed laws that he does not abide by 2)Spends $500M of Canada's money recklessly in a pointless election when that money could have been injected into the health care system or used to create or maintain jobs 3) Stated that Canada will not suffer from the global economic crisis due to his gov. great money management (Hah! Is that why the amount of lay-offs have been skyrocketing since his pre-mature re-election and the Can $ has lost a quarter of its value in approx. 2 short months?) 4)Proclaims that the Canadian population had spoken clearly when his gov. was re-elected. Well here's a news flash for you, Mr. Harper: A minority of the Canadian population mistakenly voted in a minority gov. that does not have the power to pass a law without the approval of at least 15% of opposition members (whom you claim to be usurpers) and with the way that your gov. appears to be clueless and does not know how to handle (or even aknowledge at one point) the economic crisis at hand, the Canadians that voted Conservatives should be surprised if you can even get 1% of opposition support! So how does Mr. Harper respond? He decides to prorogue gov. for 2 months so that he can hopefully come up with an idea on how to handle the situation after the holidays! Hello people! The problem is today and will keep geting bigger tomorrow! If Canada goes into an eonomic depression and there isn't enough money in the treasury to issue pension checks to the senior citizens, what will the Conservatives do? Suspend the gov. for two months and then after the holidays come up with a plan, while the senior citizens and war veterans starve in the meanwhile?

Patricia in Belleville
said

Shame on you Mdme.Jean. you listened to Steven and let him persuade you to make this decision. This is the worst thing that could happen to our democracy. What at government!!! We as Canadians will be the laughing stock of the whole world. Harper is just buying time and what will that solve. Thousands of people are loosing their jobs, facing a tough winter and economy, and the big boys will have a 2 month vacation. Merry Christmas!!

Warren Lewis Smith
said

The best interview of the day was Mike Duffy with MP Ruby Dhalla. I hope that her voice gets traction in Ottawa. I was pleased to hear from S.Dion that the door to sanity is not closed. My advice to the Conservatives:
1. Apologize to all of Canada for the foolishness of the past few days.
2. Rise above the past, take the high road and be positive and inclusive with all parliamentarians.
3. Work toward a consensus democracy-wherein decisions are based on input from all quarters, seek solutions that all or most can accept, even if they do not get their first choice. Give a little, get a lot.
4. Demonstrate decorum and decency in all debate in the house. Be thankful and polite with all opposition politicians, even when they are unpleasant.

The above will build concensus and trust over time.
All of Canada will gain.

Arthur Ottawa
said

It is too bad that the political leaders of this country need to be given a time out. We needed action now, to take control of the economic crisis. And now we have another month and a half of uncertainty. I hope that cooler heads will prevail and we can all just get along, or this may go down in the history books as December Crisis

Gerald
said

Politics aside, the GG's decision was not the correct one. Shere Khan gets another "life" to "push" his way onward and sadly the Three Muskateers are looking more like the Three Stooges (Liberals hire a competent audio visual specialist this is the digital age).

Look on thook on the good side!
Many of us have learned the new buzz word "prorogue".

Lets not forget we are all Canadians and as such we should all want for the betterment of all Canadians. Mr. Harper should know that bullies in the school yard are not accepted today. Four Square is 4 squares playing together not 3 with a "but". You have to play nice with everyone, even if you don't like the colour of their opinions.

Bob Masters - Ontario
said

Excellent decision GG.
The people of Canada thank you for deciding in this manner.

Due to the very low turnout in the last election, maybe it is a great idea to make it 'mandatory' that all eligible voters MUST vote ( regardless of their choices obviously) in ALL federal elections at least? Hmmmm what do you think?

Scott in Halifax
said

Well, I'm happy now. If only the coalition boobs can cool down by the new year so that everyone can get their ducks in a row. I can't help but think that when Parliment resumes, that the 3 stooges will be up to the same old tricks and ks and try to overthrough the government just out of spite. I hope that Santa brings them some brains for Christmas.

Ann
said

Excellent News. Now lets stand United and get on with leading our great Country.Do we want our economy to suffer anymore?No it's time to move forward and Let MR Harper do his job .It's not his fault we are in a economical crisis.Let him lead us out of one.

Steve from Toronto
said

Interesting to see how divided the country is. Hopefully all the party leaders take note of both sides of this debate (not likely, especially when it seems that most Canadians aren't willing to either).

Personally, I think this is a very difficult issue and that our GG made the right call - or at very least the FAIREST call.

Bob in London Ontario
said

Harper is only delaying the confrontation for the mess he created, also he put the GG in a bad position, damned if she does, damned if she doesn't. The issue is only delayed, bring on your budget & lets fix the problems, stop playing games with our country!

Matt C in Calgary
said

The governor general is constitutionally obligated to do the wish of the Prime Minister (what Mr.Dion or Mr.Layton or Mr.Duceppe want or propose is irrelevent). If, however, the governor general strongly disagrees with what the Prime Minister wants, then she can defer to a higher power of authority. That higher power of authority is the public and the public is consulted by way of an election.

David of Red Deer
said

I hope this teaches some of you that decide to vote �strategically� that you may end up with a party in power you never thought would get there.

Darlene in Halifax
said

Wow, the hypocracy from the coalition supporters is unbelievable.

For days now I have been reading one pompous 'lesson on our Parliamentary system' after another, and countless posts about why this coalition take-over is perfectly acceptable under our system of government so we should just shut up and take it, even though most Canadians do not believe it is right. I guess your research didn't include what the position of GG entails.

The GG represents the British Monarch in Canada. She makes decisions based on the advice of her official advisor, the Prime Minister of Canada. Stephen Harper's government has not gone before a non-confidence vote, therefore he is still the Prime Minister of Canada and her official advisor. No other MPs sitting in the House are official advisors - not Dion, not Layton, and not Duceppe - so she has no obligation to seek their advice.

She is doing her job exactly as our democratic system is designed to work. Isn't it wonderful :)

leslie S. in Radville, Sk
said

Absolute proof that the position of G.G. is bought and paid for by the prime minister. What better reason is there for the complete elimination of this position and the pork barrel Senate? Economic stimulus should include eliminating this waste of the taxpayers' money in Ottawa.

Robert Renaud
said

today is a sad day in Canada.We have sufferd a great defeat. We are not a democratic country anymore. the governor general should be made to resign. VIVE LE CANADA!

Jeff Robillard
said

Good decision by the GG. The coalition with a lame-duck leader is in no position to lead a government. All sides are to blame. They've all taken a stab at being opportunistic. But that's now water under the bridge. Let's hope they can get their poop-in-a-pile and gives us good government.

W. Sparling CD MA AScT
said

I Applaud her decision. I also believe that once this seditious coalition acts whe when Parliament resumes she should dissolve Parliament and force them to face the electorate they have betrayed.

Diane
said

Excellent!

Scott
said

At times of economic uncertainty we close parlement? I wonder how Harper Black mailed the GG into this one ?

Debbie
said

The last election clearly showed that Canadians chose the Conservatives to lead our Country. We have to respect this fact.

Wise and excellent decision, Governor General!

Jill, Manitoba
said

My only wish now is that Harper can fix this mess that he created. He needs to remember that he does not have a majority government. We as citizens elect MP's to represent us, and ensure that our needs and concerns are met. So by Harper's unwillingness to work with our MP's, he is telling Canadian voters that our concerns don't matter.
I hope he can work in good faith to regain the trust of his members in Parliament to settle this mess we are in.

Lynn
said

I for one am glad she decided in favor of Harper. I think even with a minority gov, that our economy is fine right now and as for a coalition- bad idea- should be Canadians choice.

Scott
said

The Govenor General is playing politics that is not her job..There should be a vote and if harper loses so be it.. there should be an election.. let the people decide !!! P.S. The GG should lose that position.

DS Clarke
said

Excellent news for all Canadian's. Despite the gloom and doom being portrayed by the "Three Stooges" Canada's financial situation is not in dire straits we've been through worse under the Liberals and survived and will do so again. For one to willingly desire to destroy democracy in order to achieve personal glory is very sad and demonstrates the fact that they placed their ego(s) ahead of what is right for the country. If these so called "Leader called "Leaders" are disillusioned, then perhaps they will receive a warmer welcome somewhere else. Just remember, this country will go back to the polls and memory of their reckless abandonment will weigh heavily on all taxpayers mind.

Michael L. - Oakville, ON
said

Yes, she made a difficult but appropriate decision given that ALL parties concerned clearly need to cool down their rhetoric and at least give the duly-elected minority government a chance to table their economic stimulus measures in a proper budget.

There was little precedent for her to do anything other than what she has decided to do in response to a direct request from Mr. Harper. The supposed loss of the �confidence of the house� seemed more like an unprincipled power grab motivated by understandable partisan anger rather than genuine concerns regarding the lack of economic stimuli.

If, after returning and considering the merits of the budget, the House deems it unsupportable, let them defeat the government in a truly legitimate confidence vote. Then the GG assess whether this coalition has enough staying power to form a government or she can send us back to the polls.

At least at that juncture, the electorate will be in a better position to judge both the economic worthiness of the Conservative�s budget as well as the quality, viability and specific proposals of the coalition. Mr. Harper will NOT be able to evade another confidence vote, but at least all the parties will have allowed us to make a more informed decision on the merits of each option.

Donna in Toronto
said

Kudos to GG. Now four minds can cool down and walk their talk in the interests of ALL Canadians. It is imperative that we know what Obama will unviel in January as we are so directly impacted by the US. If they aren't going to invest in their auto sector (that are not selling cars) why should we? Nor should we prop up their auto business. If no one is going to buy forestry products, why should we put money into it? I don't want 30 billion spent driving Canada into bankruptcy. Nor do I want my children saddled with a useless debt. We don't want history to repeat itself. Haven't we learned that already about frivolous spending to buy votes?

Joshua
said

Excellent. Must allow time to cool down and allow people and elected representatives to think as well. Coalition governing is not to the best of the majority of Canadian especially in this time of economic crisis.

Carmen Ottawa
said

Maybe this will be a lesson to all people who didn't bother to get out and vote, it shows you that if you do not make your voice heard you have no right to complaint. If we would've give a majority to any of the parties we would have a stable government right now, mind you, we won't see a majority for a long time coming having so many political parties wnated a piece of the pie.

Devon in Alberta
said

Just one comment. I hear a lot of talk that Harper and his Conservative government are going to get two months off now that Parliament is prorogued. Where are you getting this? Are you not really listening to the interviews of the PM or his finance minister in the past couple of days or is it that you JUST DON'T WANT TO HEAR? Don't behave like the coalition, unwilling to let the government have their say and unwilling to listen.

Yesterday Jim Flaherty said he was only giving his people two days off at Christmas because they are going to work really hard. They already are heavy into consultations with the auto industry in Ontario and other groups to work on ways to save jobs and the economy, or did you miss that coverage?

What part of that says the Conservatives are taking a break? Do you really think they are not going to present a comprehensive, well measured budget in January? Get your facts straight and really think.

Obviously, you are NOT LISTENING!! And some of the media out there...that goes for you, too. Present what is really being said. Why are some of you so against this government?

Kevin in Waterloo
said

Harper WANTS another election! That's why he put forward the original plans to eliminate public funding of political parties, and prevent the public servants from striking. Both of those were non-starters and he KNEW would provoke both the Liberals and the NDP into voting against the economic statement. If they were allowed to do that, he blames them for bringing down the government. He then fights an election against opposition parties with no money in the bank. Most likely ends up with a majority. And if they supported the statement, they would have lost all their funding and again wouldn't be able to fight an election. Either way, Harper wins. HIS GOAL IS A MAJORITY GOVT, He's not interested in helping Canadians weather this economic storm. So with the arrogance he has shown, ask yourself if you want him to have absolute power for 4 years. Canada won't look the same... it'll be a neo-conservative political agenda all over the map. Canadians need to be on guard. And for you Conservative supporters, you should be demanding that your Con MP's act like adults and govern for ALL Canadians, not just conservative supporters.

Nate in Canmore
said

So the GG grants Stevie his election even though he said that he can't call one until 4 yrs after the last election (note he was NOT voted out in a non-confidence vote, and did not try to work with the opposition).

Next, the GG grants an unreasonable delay/suspension of 2 months of parliament at a time when the Cdn economy needs co-operative action representing the majority of Cdns interests (something the coalition presented) so that he can try to create some sort of budget?

Something he should already have done for this session of parliament considering the gravity of the situation and considering that his govt. had the numbers all along but instead chose to try and lie to the House and the Canadian people by using incorrect financial numbers and by trying to silence any opposing democratic opinions.

Perhaps the GG should do more for Cdns instead of concentrating on arranging play dates for her daughter and Stevie's kids.

A sad day for Canada.

Marian Liptak
said

Canadians, please be objective and positive. Canadian voters decided who suppose to govern this country in the election. If you are on minority side don't be nasty and do not insult majority winning voters or party. Govern the country in this bad economic time is not easy. The people to govern are elected to Parliament by us. They suppose to be our representatives. They suppose to work together.
People in Parliament, please be objective and positive too. Work together and listen people. Only childish idea was to bring political crisis at this time on the table. We do not need it and you now it. You have to work and work together as the Goverment of Canada. You suppose to be intelligent representatives of all of us. I keep my fingers across for your wisdom.
Thank you, Mrs GG Michaelle Jean for time granted to the Parliament of Canada to give them chance to work together. Unfortunately the damage to our country was done already.

Mike
said

Well I guess the Conservatives now know that after kicking a dead dog so many times you may kick it back to life.

I love the fact the Consevatives have been all over the Liberals for not standing up for anything the last year or so and when they do they want to take their ball home .. which they did .. good move GG.

But really - both sides need to grow up and be REAL politicians during times like these.

Bonnie BC
said

If the GG had told Harper"Have the vote and then Canada will have a real election with everybody's cards on the table".That would have ended it.This is the first legit arguement for Dion to have his *.
In the 19TH century the losing guy stayed in power with the NDP.No wonder!

Todd Chamberlain
said

I'm not happy that Parliment has been suspended, but that is probably the sensible choice, given the options.

If the coup decides to go ahead with their non-confidence vote, I hope the GG sends us back to the polls. Our government should be choosen by the people, and not by any three guy's, especially when one of them has a sepratist agenda.

I am NOT anti-French of anti-Quebec at all, but any sepratise party (including the 'Western Canada Concept Party' from years gone by) has no business in Federal politics.

Todd Chamberlain
Prince Albert, SK

Cory form Alberta
said

Maybe people will now educate themselves instead of following these 3 deadbeat so-called leaders like sheep.

Despite the condition of the economy, Canada does not need a stimulus package.

A stimulus package as proposed for the automakers is like throwing a bucket of water on a forest fire. To hand over 30B with out fixing the core problem that has plagued the automakers for 20 years is irresponsible, and ultimately a waste of taxpayer�s money. This also an Ontario/Quebec issue that will ultimately be paid for by western money considering that the rest of the country is broke.

My solution is for you out of work auto workers is to get off your overpaid butts and come out west were the jobs are plenty and really work in the mud and oil and for once and earn those tax dollars. My friends form Newfoundland saw hard times and answered the call, and in return they have earned my respect. You people form Ontario and Quebec could learn a thing or two from them. Maybe then you will understand western resentment� just� just maybe.

tyler c, cardinal
said

I think that the gov. general has made a bad dissition. I did not vote for any party in the general election, but i do believe that the rights of voters have been taken away from the PM. Because it is the right of the parties to take control. The collition is above 50 of the seats they should have the right to control parlimate or bring canadians back to the polls. two thums down govener general.

Pat in Ont.
said

Sad day for democracy in canada. So much for majority and vote of confidence in the house. Mme Jean could have least have waited until Friday to render her decision. I guess she was well briefed prior. Let the conservative campaign television games begin.

Deborah - Edmonton
said

A great day for all Canadians. Unfortunately, the coalition shenanigans will resume Januray 26 (assuming they are willing to take a break), as they are already planning to defeat the not-yet-tabled budget

Duncan
said

Well done, Mme. Jean!

Laurenca
said

Those that didn't voted the last election (41.9% of all Canadians) did vote "IT WAS NONE OF THE ABOVE" In fact Ottawa would be better off if there were no MP's there. You 'll see, things will be better with this 2 month break. No MP"S in OTTAWA what can go wrong. There will be nobody there to screw up this country

Rose
said

I am thankful to God for the answers to so many Canadian's prayers! The GG made the right decision, and we as Canadian's need to support the government that has been elected by the people, and pray for them to make the right decisions. rose/mb

Amicus Veritas
said

The GG has set a dangerous precedent for the future: a sitting PM, facing a loss of confidence in the House, simply asks - and can now expect to receive - a prorogation to avoid certain defeat. I urge everyone to protest this usurpation of democracy: lobby to remove the GG, directly elect our PMs, set fixed elections in Canada and ban this monarchical vestige of back-room politics from our beloved Canada. Down with Michaelle Jean and closed-door monarchy!

Joanne M. in Ottawa
said

Her Excellency Mme. Jean has made the right decision. Everyone needs a time to cool off and hopefully work together.

Derek in Edmonton
said

It all started off with the economy now it looks like it will suffer another two months before anything gets done. Harper is a desperate man!! If the opposition could set their differences a side for the best interests of Canadians than we should let them and Harper should step down. He talks of unity well look at what he's done now!!! It's a very sad day for our Democracy!!!

Lindsay - Edmonton, Ab
said

It's not a matter of her falling for Harper's crap, its a matter of her respecting the millions of Canadians who actually went out to vote, regardless of which party you voted for.
For the people who think the coalition is a great idea, thats fine, but its not what you voted for in October, and I believe that the only way to truly be fair to all Canadian voters is to call for another election.

Gord
said

Bravo: Although if I'm correct, the GG had little wiggle room and must do as the PM asks, within reason.

Now with a cooling off period, Mr Harper will be free to mount a PR campaign, exposing and being distainful of the three conspirators, between now and January 22/09, submit a program then that the three conspirators puke on, return to the GG, disolve parliament, call an election, and catch the discredited conspirators with their pants down and broke [especially Liberals] and in the middle of replacing their repudiated lean the middle of replacing their repudiated leader Mr. Dion.
If Mr.Harper's PR program is successful, Mr and Mrs average Canadian will come to realize these conspirators agreed to allow Mr. Duceppe, who is dedicated to the distruction of our magnificent Canada to co govern as part of their coalition agreement. HUH. Now the fox would have been allowed into the chicken house.
Are they that hungry and unprincipled in their naked grab for power. It appears so. Whew, close call.

wen
said

Wonderful! A decision to distinguish the flame instead of stepping into the fire! Now, maybe everyone can get their heads out of their behinds and get to work. And if there is an election to fix this situation, remember ....if you don't vote, you don't complain.

Tommies
said

Why are you people talking about 2 months paid vacation doing nothing? They were breaking on the 12th anyway until Jan 26.

Amanda - Calgary
said

I think this is the best decision for now. If in January the Coalition still wants to go to a vote then so be it. Hopefully then she will call an election and the CANADIAN PEOPLE can pick their government as they should in a democracy. None of this being bullied into a government that we as Canadians did not pick.

Joshua from Vancouver
said

So I guess Mr. Harper got his wish to put democracy on hold while he runs his propaganda to drum up support.

Jonathan
said

I am tired of hearing all this dooms day from both sides. It does nothing for the economy and does nothing for developing a stable Canada.

A cooling off period is better than making rash decisions. Sure the parliament will not be working until the end of January. And yes and economic package is needed to develop a path forward. But that won't be developed at gun point by either side. I suggest that both sides develop appropriate packages and work together. If they cannot then we should head to the polls not have our democracy dictated to us. We have to think of the Country as a whole, we cannot focus on the auto manufacturers and jump and that is what both sides are guilty of. The country has many more provinces and territories than Ontario and Quebec. And if bad business habits have put individuals in peril, rather than throwing more money at those businesses maybe they should be allowed to fail and those individuals should be helped rather than the failing company.

The Canadian system is already fraught with all sort of problems regarding democracy let's not make it worse.

Alex Edmonton
said

Why couldn't Harper just ask for help from the opposition,
instead he had to go and beg of the GG. The man is too proud an individual to lead a country. He does not believe in compomise, it's his way or no way. He has got to go

sojie
said

People need to research the Parliamentary system and get their facts straight. We do not elect a Prime Minister, we elect our MP. Harper is running a minority government as if it was a majority. 62% of voters did NOT vote for him in the past election. All this prorogue is doing is wasting time, and with the economy in the crisis it's in, we do not have time to waste. Face it, Harper has failed, he does not of the confidence of the House nor does he have the confidence of the majority of Canadians, it's time for him to step aside. He has already caused too much damage with his hateful, anti-woman agenda. Coward Harper needs to face the music. He's hurting Canadians with his partisan politics, his time is up.

Angus
said

I think the GG did the right decision.I voted in Harper,NOT the other 3.Dion failed to become the PM due to his platform now he wants to try to overtake the government with the help of the other 2 parties.If this attempt to take power was done in any other country, Canada and the States would be criticizing this, yet its okay if this is done here.Let this go to a vote with the Coalition as ONE party and the Conservatives as the other and let the chips fall where they may.In the past the voters have let parties know by voting them down.The last thing I want is to have a Seperatist be deciding what goes on with the rest of Canada as all they are concerned about is themselves.This has got to be an all time LOW for the Liberal party as they used to be a once powerful and proud party and could stand on their own two feet without kissing others behinds to get in.

Mark in Toronto
said

I think everyone is forgetting this is a MINORITY government. So Harper does not have the FULL support of Canadians. So the opposition has the full rights to do what they are doing, because together they have the majority of Canadians votes.

This is the problem with the British Parliamentary system! If we have learned anything from this is that we need change. It's called propositional representation.

Tom Andrews
said

at least this can stop the political coup for awhile. But we still have to watch out for the three amigos. Good luck for Mr. Harper on getting any sort of an agreement from the three.

Billy from the East Coast
said

Well, well, well! Harper has saved his job....for now. It's too bad he doesn't fight so hard for the jobs of all Canadians the way he has for his own!

I find it funny that Harper denied that our country was heading for economic crisis before the election, has done NOTHING since the election to help this situation, and has asked to DELAY helping the situation for another 2 months.

Everyone take notice of this VERY POOR LEADERSHIP!

When all is said and done, he will finally offer some hope in his budget. Not because of his deep concern for the Canadian people, but concern for his job.

"Last Friday I asked Canadians to give us their opinion on the parliamentary situation. That feedback has been overwhelming and very clear. They want Canada's government to continue to work on the agenda they voted for -- our plan to strengthen the economy."

WHO DID HE ASK?

Wake up Mr. Harper and give Canadians the help they need right now! You have a RESPONSIBILITY to help ALL Canadian citizens BEFORE situations are beyond repair! A two month vacation is ridiculous! Are we supposed to believe you will be inviting Dion, Layton, and Duceppe over for hot cider while you brainstorm on the plight of many Canadians??

It's a sad day.......two more months of economic hardship for Canadians, and then the implementation of a budget reflecting the oppositions ideas so he (Harper) can save his job and look like a hero.

Foolishness!!!

Gord
said

The Conservative party was democratcily elected to form the government seven weeks ago. For all those Liberals (who do not like being out of power), and New Democrats who did not like the results of the election, perhaps you might want to consider that the Canadian people made their choice and to quit your complaining.

The one good thing that has come out this mess is that the Liberals & NDP actions have made ordinary quiet Canadians, who are not active politicaly, who are not loud socialists or liberal media types, to come out in force and have our say. I hope another election is called so we can tell the Liberals & NDP parties again!

Steve in Winnipeg
said

It's funny how so many people that we feel we need a change in government. Didn't Canada have this chance less than two months ago? The prorogue is the best option at this time to let all parties get their heads on straight.

Helen Webster
said

Thank God, Mr. Harper kept our country out of the hands of a coalition supported by a separatist party. He put Canada first by refusing to allow a separatist group help govern our nation. Both Mr. Dion and Mr. Layton both dishonor everything they stood for by attempting to sell out our country to the separatists in an attempt to govern. Separatists who distain Canada have no right to govern and no right to sit in Parliamet. Thanks Mr. Harper, you did the right thing.

Helen Webster
St. John's, NL

Ed - Palmerston
said

This person said it bebest:
"Everyone wants a stimulus package now now now! How will you feel when a rushed budget brings us into the debacle that the US is currently in with everyone wanting to just write everything off? AND... you want to accomplish this with some pact made by two losing parties? One, whose leader switches his tune everyday, and is stepping down at his own party's request. The other simply will do anything to legitimize the NDP party as a Federal option. Both have no problems allying with a separtist, anti-canadian party that regardless of what anyone says about looking out for Quebec's interests, is out to accomplish breaking the country apart.

You pro-coalition people have so much anger for Harper you are actually willing to let, one of the weakest Liberal leaders ever, who is about to step down, become the PM through dirty pool tactics backed by separtists, and a NDP leader that has ZERO skills in creating any budget of any kind at all in this time of crisis. Then, without the vote of the Canadian people, Bob Rae will most likely be the PM come the spring. Remember Bob Rae Ontario? You want him at the reins during an economic crisis???? WAKE UP!

No wonder the leaders act like children... look at the people who they are governing.

The GG made the right call. Only thing to save the economy is a united Canada, not this circus. "

Joy, Ontario
said

If Stephen Harper had the interests of Canadians at heart, he should have shown leadership in the first place by offering to work with all parties on an economic renewal strategy for the country. Instead, and in the face of a different scale of magnanimity and bi-partisanship displayed by the leader to the south, he chose such crassness and stupidity in his measures against the political parties and the public service, that one has to wonder at citizens willing to give support to someone who shows such little grasp of the issues of the moment.

He doesn't deserve support. He's lied and misrepresented the parliamentary issues to save his own skin.

Dion is not a charismatic leader but at least he's honest.

What Harper says he plans to do after this eruption, should have guided his actions a long time ago.

However, I think that this crisis has served to divide western Canada from the rest of Canada, alienated the Quebecois and that Harper himself will only be able to appeal to a limited constituency in a future election.

Let's hope that by the next election, we'll have a better Liberal Party to serve the interests of all Canadians.

Bob
said

They wouldn't have done much over Christmas anyway; they never do. This is a good decision on CG's part. Without a budget, the coalition is not ready to lead, nor are they up on the international picture like the existing government is. They are better stewards of the next six weeks regardless of what happens. Dion is not even a sure thing, even amongst the Liberal party.

thomas
said

Right On GG! Just like elementary school, if the boys can't learn to play nicely, then suspend them! The unbelievable acts of the opposition are truly abhorent, could'nt swallow the fact that most Canadians did not want them to form the official government, so they attempt a banana-republic coup?! Canadians voted for the party they wanted in power! Poor voter turnout simply means that most people could'nt stomach ANY of the politic-games being played by our so-called "wise" leaders. Get real Ottawa-boys, most of us taxpayers are working hard to support our families on limited incomes, not interested in wasting hundreds of millions of dollars on another election just because the opposition did'nt like the results of the last one. I'll say it again, if the people wanted the liberals or ndp to be in power, then the people would have voted them into power (remember Kim Campbell?).

Dave H.
said

A good decision by Jean. The voters spoke a few weeks back when they elected the Conservatives back into power. They should be given the chance to present their budget in January. It is the responsibility of the opposition to work with the leading party by setting up "opposition" to decisions, but in a manner that it helps in the creation of better ones. This was more of sour grapes because they lost the election and were looking for a new way into power without being voted in by the citizens. They still need to respect the voters who spoke in November.

catsrulz
said

I love all the people that said the GG made a mistake. I think alot of you knew she would make the right decision just yesterday, now that she has and you dont klike it your upset with her. Just remember that the LIBERALS are the ones that gave her the postion. SHes doing whats right for Canada. For for those that are complain they will be out till late Jan. They were going to be done at the end of next week any ways for the christmas break

Best Interest of the country
said

I have a very difficult time with the opposition parties rejecting this olive branch so quickly and completely. The whole groups of opposition are so self serving and absolutely do not have any intentions of building our country.

Go Conservatives.

Laura, Edmonton
said

Excellent job Governor General! This will allow all parties the time and opportunity to work TOGETHER in the best interests of all Canadians. As a patriotic Canadian, I do not wish to see our country divided over unity issues that I thought we had started to move past in the last few years. I did not want a coalition, I wanted the elected parties to work together cooperatively in the best interest of ALL Canadians. Bravo!

Steve in Aylmer
said

Can we prorogue the M.P`s salaries?

Lucian
said

Harper tells us that as of last Friday Canadians expressed a desire to have government work on the agenda they voted for.
Harper chose not to accept the will of the people a few months ago when he called an election.Why do the electrate matter now?
He also dared Dion to pull the plug several times in the last parliament.But he would not stand before Dion on Monday and put himself to the test.

Michael in Ottawa
said

The same parliamentary rules that allow a coalition to govern the country allow for the prorogue ... you can't take take the rules that are only good for your side. Her confidence in a coalition may have been hurt by a poor quality message to the Canadian people.

kenh
said

Anyone ready to talk about the real issue yet? All of this is showing that we need constitutional and electoral reform. It will sound American, but we need fixed (and I mean FIXED) elections, votes for the PM separately from MPs, and proportional representation. Clear up the ambiguities before you demand that parlimentarians make it work. They do what our system allows them to do. Get on with THAT!

Larry Macdonald
said

Jack Layton's comments after the prorogue of Parliament is exactly what's wrong with these leaders. His comments and Bob Rae's both state that they won't vote for the budget even it the best thing for Canada. Their arrogance astounds me. They think that they are there to amuse themselves with their stupid games. Please find some common sense and govern Canadians.

Carmen
said

The Governor General absolutely made the right decision. Did no one else hear the Duceppe's recitations of the concessions the Liberals and NDP promised for the Bloc's support?
My understanding is that Parliament was set to shut down for a break on December 13 anyways.

Corinne in Alberta
said

We only voted 8 weeks ago! Let the Prime Minister have a chance to do his job and let's see what he comes up with in January...

Carol
said

In these unsettled economic times, the GG has made the only logical decision.

Janis Booth - Halton Hills
said

So democracy has died and the majority don't count. How gullible are Canadians, the spin of the Tories can confound so easily. I utterly despise Harper and his cronies. He/they who isn't/aren't prepared to help those who are currently out of work though highly qualified in their sphere and wants to ban unions (surely even an idiot can see that is trying to divide our society!)needs taking out of politics. I think those who are so taken-in must be of similar mindsets to those who have submitted to tyrants the world over. How awful for our country.

Cheryl
said

All of them are spoiled little kids in a sand box wanting their own way! Take the TV cameras out of the House of Commons, too, because it is sickening to watch grown men act so stupid! These are the people elected to govern us! God help us all! Its no wonder that the percentage of voters is declining so dramatically in this country. Minority government or coalition- none of these men are acting as mature elected officials. Its no wonder that more Canadians watched the US election than showing interest in our own government.

Cathy, Mississauga
said

Here we thought American politics was a soap opera!
Those who followed the election closely will see that none of the party members ,especially the coalition, agreed with each others platforms. Now Curly, Larry and Moe have transformed into super heroes and best friends who say that they are ready to save Canada from an economic mess...a mess which was around even before the Harper government. Last time I checked Canada was a free country...with a goverment chosen by the people for the people...who CANADIANS have to represent CANADIANS should be decided by ALL CANADIANS.

Bruce
said

So now the Canadian government sit on their hands for better than two months while the rest of the world passes us by in their effort to diminish the affects of a world recession. The GG has made her decision which under the Canadian Constitution is completely to her discretion. Perhaps NOT what many would liked to have seen but perfectly legal non the less. This deferring of a possible inevitable outcome will do nothing for Canadians except give them a sense of false security...I believe the government will fall at the next sitting. However nothing gets done for the economy which is slipping daily....too bad!

LarryBadke
said

It's good that a little time has been granted for all parties to take a look at the serious additional problems they may be causing for Canada because of their infighting. However Mr. Layton and Mr. Duceppe's comments after the announcement should make it very clear to all Canadians that their little backroom deal is really about a power grab, not about working for Canada.

Mr. Layton shouldn't be too suprised when he loses more seats in parliment because of his deal with Duceppe and the Bloc.

We will eventually get another chance to vote out in Western Canada, and Mr. Layton may regret his actions.

kathy
said

You people don't get it, work will not be suspended just Parliament. Conservative ministers have already been on TV saying they have all kinds of meetings lined up with all sectors. So chill.

Alric Greenham
said

Thank God. My respect for the GG has increased substantially this morning. Mr. Harper is on the right track to support the Canadian economy, but has to learn to forgo every opportunity to kick his opponents. They are such a SAD group anyway. They are quite capable of engineering, and are busy marching to their own demise.

Spencer from Hamilton
said

I think that the decision of the GG was the right one. But only because I don't like the concept of having a sense of disarray during the holidays, as there is far too much of that anyways. However, I don't think that this decision was made because the GG thought it was the right thing to do, but because of her galavanting around the world, and her role in our country as the Queen's representative, did not afford her the appropriate time to consider the options. Nor, the possibilities. As it stands now, there are no real plans proposed by the coalition for the future of Canada, and Mr. Harper appears to be only covering his own, as opposed to actually attempting to govern. I hope that something real and tangible comes from this delay.

Bob Tyre Winnipeg
said

I never could understand why Canadians know so little about our parliamentary process.

Reality is that Canadians DO NOT get to choose their Prime Minister.

The party or group of parties that have the majority of elected MP's choose the Prime Minister.

It is really sad Canadians are buying the lies put forth by Harper and his cronies.

Lori in Alberta
said

So now the TRUE colours of the "coalition" come out. It's not about the economy...it's about their absolute disdain for Mr. Harper! Shame on you Jack layton...you better not defeat this government at the Throne Speech...you better let us see the budget and make decisions based on that! As much as I dislike Mr. Dion...keep that spirit of democracy alive and work with the Conservatives to create a budget that minimizes the damage to ALL of Canada. Mr. Layton was ticked that his ideas were rejected by Mr. Harper...well my guess is...they were harmful in the long term to the country. The NDP can't work responsibly with public funds, they've proven that time & time again by bankrupting or damn near doing so in 3 Provinces...so for heaven's sake, don't give them access to the big piggy bank! Thank you Madame Jean...you did the right thing. Now let's hope the boys in the playground can try and follow your example.

Shirley, Edmonton
said

I think we have missed an historic moment in Canadian history, with three of the parties actually working together to run this country.
Are three heads better than one. I strongly believe so.

Alex (Toronto)
said

So we haven't had a functioning government since the beginning of September. Now it will be late January? And if the new throne speech is defeated, do we get another election? That would push out the opening of Parliament to March. And if a new election has the same result as the current, with another Conservative minority, what then? Will we ever get a government, or will elections be the only economic stimulus we see?

I'm hoping that Jean is just giving Harper a long enough rope to hang himself. I'm hoping she told him "This is your last favor, Steve." At some point the elected representatives of the people should be allowed to speak; that's what Parliament literally means, after all.

I don't think the Governor General's decision here is well-founded, but it is within her discretion.

Karin deConinckSmith
said

Yes let's just suspend Parliament. Never mind there is a potential economy shattering world crisis where urgent action is needed! No lets just let Ottawa do NOTHING for the next 2 months! Harper and cronies; THANKS ALOT FOR ABSOLUTELY NOTHING!!! Harper should be kicked out right now, he is a mean spirited, bullying, whiny A*hole with no regards for Canada. All he is interested in is a dictatorship where he can play with the big money. What a joke!!

Cedar, Ottawa
said

Cool, Harper got his last chance and He should treasure and improve his communicate skill between parties.

I don't want waste more money for vote again in current econ. situation, but I don't trust a gov which is not choose by people from voting.

On the other hand, Harper must understand this is His last chance. if he fail, 100% he should leave.

GG cool, she makes a wise decision.

Andrew from OTTAWA
said

I am 110% with the Conservatives... I think DION and all these morons that are part of the Coalition need to be removed from Parliament and put on the street. They are a disgrace to this country. They people voted Conservative and that is how this country should be run for the next 4 years. DION - you lost, get out! DION is a disgrace... the last few leaders after Chretian for Liberals have been a disgrace to this country. What I dont agree is Governemt put off for 2 months. WHY? We need a Government today... a Convervative government that WE THE PEOPLE that voted in this country. NO COALITION, NO SAY FROM THE OPPISITION.

Marie
said

As I understand it, the GG does not truly have a choice in the matter. If the PM advices the GG that proroguing Parliament is the right thing to do, the GG must grant it. As such, Mme Jean had to permit Harper to prorogue Parliament. This is a HUGE flaw in our system and is extremely arrogant on Harper's part. The coalition represents over 60% of Canadians and should have been given the opportunity to govern. How undemocratic!

Ken in Saskatoon
said

Is this "breather" really a time for cooling down and working on Canada`s agenda, or simply buying time so the PM and his party can do more divisive disinformation campaigning?

Ed - Calgary
said

Common sense tells you that the BQ has publicly stated they are for Quebec ONLY - therefore any deal that the BQ endorses must also therefore be in their interests and not that of Canada. It�s absolutely ridiculous to allow a coalition that doesn�t have Canada's best interests in mind. Good Job in allowing some breathing room. The coalition party's will have much to answer for at the next election. (assuming they arent sucessful in ursurping the right of the people to vote)

Calvin K
said

I don't understand how this could happen. Harper ran to the G.G like a coward. This is the first time that he knew he could not survive a confidence vote so he ran crying to Jean. How can this happen? It doesn't say much about his character or of how the system works. From now on when he doesn't like the situation all he has to do is freeze the system. Cowardly....

James MD
said

Thank you your Excellency! You made the right decision!
Weather or not you like the current PM...He was elected by us, not that I think there was a good choice of leaders in the first place.
For those of us that have chosen to forget the liberals were no better when they ran the country yet they expect us to just let them take it form the dually elected government. I personally don�t think any of the have a clue what they�re doing but as the saying goes �deal with the devil you know�

Aly Virani
said

Unbelievable... We have just rendered our democracy impotent! Suspending parliament is a precedence for trouble. You don't let someone working for a client suspend a project for 2 months off because they are not happy with the approach or outcome. They do have the option to quit if they are unhappy!

And for all those Canadians who keep talking about an election in October that gave the tories power, yo still don't seem to understand that we are a Parliamentary system!!! You don't vote for a leader but an MP that represents you in the house of commons and you need a majority of representative to support you to have a majority party. I don't like the coalition any better then the next person but putting our constitution aside for a PM shunned or lost confidence is not the answer. Unfortunately the Canadians have been hoodwinked by the PM and the opposition!!!

Proud bilingual canadian, Edm, AB

Ian, Manitoba
said

Thank goodness. Now maybe Dion & Layton can go relax, cool down, and think on how they can start working with the Harper government in a productive manner. If they keep these antics up (especially involving the Bloc in their coalition), the next election will be a massive majority for the Conservatives.

William McMaster Thunder Bay
said

Democracy is not about Members of Parliament having their say. It is about the public having their say. Mr. Layton , in his address to the Nation seems concerned with democratic rights. Perhaps Mr Layton and his co conspires, against democracy, should take their issues to the Canadian public and let Canadians decide.

iskewa ottawa
said

This is an unfortunate turn of events.
Not only is the GG's position an antique in our current society...but now she seems unclear of her options and role. To let the prime minister hide and run away from the will of the house is a shame.
I believed in the GG's place in Canada before this....I cannot support her anymore.

What a sad day for all of us.

Trevor Smith
said

After reading these comments, I cannot BELIEVE you people! There are petitions out there with signatures from all across the country for both sides of this argument. The ones requesting that the Governor General do exactly what she did far outnumber (on the scale of 350,000 against vs. 39,000 for) the petition to allow a coalition.

The simple fact of the matter is that this isn't just a confidence vote. By allowing the Bloc to further their agenda by becoming part of the coalition, it has opened the doors to separation - not only of Quebec but by Western Canada. Rest assured, if the coalition government succeeds after the new year, Western Canada will pull out of the confedation of Canada and strike out on our own. Quebec most likely will get their Christmas wish list fulfilled after that as there will simply not be enough votes left to support federalism. Goodbye Canada.

The only reasonable option available to the G.G. was to prorogue Parliment and provide an opportunity for cooler heads to prevail. Should this remain an issue when Parliment reconvenes, she will have no option but to dissolve the government and call a general election. Any other choice simply opens the country up to the dissolution of Canada as a whole.

James
said

I Thank Her Excellency, this government deserves a chance. Perhaps Jack, Stephane and Gilles can share the same canoe out of town

Sarah
said

This is a mistake. Canada would probably benefit by not having Harper in power again. It has made my physically ill both time he's been voted in. Young people need to start voting to keep a man like him away from power. I don't know a single person that voted for him , yet he is still in power. So Tom from Ottawa, speak for yourself and only yourself when you thank the Governor General for doing this. Not everyone is for Harper and his conservatives.

plail
said

All Canadians should be happy that the Governor General made a common sense decision. The coalition, despite the talk of respecting democratic institutions, was really nothing more than an attempt to overthrow the results of the recent election before the CPC had a chance to present their economic plan. The coalition lacked legitimacy as it was led by a Liberal leader who has been rejected by his own party and by the Canadian public giving him the lowest vote of any Liberal leader in recent history. The coalition is so shaky that it is unlikely to survive the next few weeks in any event.

My hope is that the parties can now work together to come up with a budget that addresses the economy and that a new election will take place once the Liberals have elected a new leader.

Gary in Oakville
said

A terrible decision.

This has never been done before. The correct decision was to allow the vote to occur. Then, if she chose to call an election, fine, but to lock the doors of parliament for 8 weeks during an economic crisis is unconcienable.

Jacqueline
said

This is good news. How can they have a confidence motion when they havent even presented a budget? It's ridiculous. Time to get back to work for Canadians and forget about this preposterous, experimental coalition.

Susan
said

It may be held until late January, at least we are not throwing away 30 billion or 300 million to arrive exactly back at the same place we are now. It makes sense to hold off until the US has made some decisions they form approximately 58 % of our GDP and can impact us in a huge way. This way at least we will be making informed and educated decisions on what the best approach to budget is. Thank God the out of control losers were not granted their coalition.

Al in NB
said

At least the GG has the Nations Best Interests In Mind.
Have GM,Ford and Daimler/Chrysler submitted a business plan to the US and Canadian Goverments yet?
For those in Ontario, get used to it The Maritimes have been in your shoes since the St Lawrence Seaway was opened and manufactureing was lured out your way, welcome to the club.

Natalie Lloydminster
said

Anyone who did not vote (41.9%)in the last election has no right to complain of the present Government. I am glad that GG put a stop to the antics of three supposedly grown men who are acting like spoiled children who didn't get what they wanted. My three year old acts better than that !

Claude Leclair, St-Bruno, Quebec
said

Good decision by the GG.
Harper will present a budget in January and if the 3 stooges don't like it, they can vote it down and we can have another election where it is an absolute certainty that neither Dion, Layton or Duceppe will be elected Prime Minister. Again. Let's hope they get the message the 2nd time.

Ed - Waterloo ON
said

Everyone wants a stimulus package now now now! How will you feel when a rushed budget brings us into the debacle that the US is currently in with everyone wanting to just write everything off? AND... you want to accomplish this with some pact made by two losing parties? One, whose leader switches his tune everyday, and is stepping down at his own party's request. The other simply will do anything to legitimize the NDP party as a Federal option. Both have no problems allying with a separtist, anti-canadian party that regardless of what anyone says about looking out for Quebec's interests, is out to accomplish breaking the country apart.

You pro-coalition people have so much anger for Harper you are actually willing to let, one of the weakest Liberal leaders ever, who is about to step down, become the PM through dirty pool tactics backed by separtists, and a NDP leader that has ZERO skills in creating any budget of any kind at all in this time of crisis. Then, without the vote of the Canadian people, Bob Rae will most likely be the PM come the spring. Remember Bob Rae Ontario? You want him at the reins during an economic crisis???? WAKE UP!

No wonder the leaders act like children... look at the people who they are governing.

The GG made the right call. Only thing to save the economy is a united Canada, not this circus.

Richard
said

People make me laugh. The only reason that Harper is making a budget is because the Opposition forced it.

The same people who are happy with Harper now, will be the same ones complaining when they lose their jobs becaue nothing was done....

Mary - BC
said

A great decision! It is good to give Harper time to bring in his budget - then the water can be tested. It would not be in Canada's best interest to have Duceppe holding the other two leaders hostage in a coalition government. Canadian unity is paramount.

Patrick
said

To everyone that is saying that now nothing will be done for two months and we need action right now...Harper does not need a budget to start giving out money and based on what I have read he has already started working with the Ontario Premier with respect to a stimulus package. Like the decision or not, it is the quickest way to get financial aid into the system. If Dion and Co. took over, weeks if not months would be required just to get up to speed.

Jun Coligado
said

Jun of Orleans:

GG's decision more or less reflected Canada's sentiment at this time of crisis--give this Government a chance! This is was last election's mandate. People simply voted for a minority Conservative gov't with some Liberals, NDPs & the Bloc Qs. Let all Europe go with their Coalition gov't style. That is why Canada is better than these guys!! "God keep our land, Glorious and Free".

Laurie from Moose Jaw SK
said

This need/greed for power by dion and layton is shameful. layton knows full well this is the only possible way he or any ndp member will ever have a chance to sit in federal cabinet and dion's ego needs him to be listed as at least a temporary Prime Minister. This coalition is simply highjacking democracy!!!

Jennie
said

Ridiculous!!!! Jean what have you done! This is the worst precedent ever. Like some other readers have said, this is Harper crying and hiding behind mommy's skirts cuz he can't face up to the consequences of his actions. Should we even have a GG in Canada, aren't we pass that yet! Let's grow up Canada, and act as adults without Mommy's interference!

Bill
said

Wonderful! Madame GG Thankyou for your common sense decision, the government should be allowed to work. What the coalition tried to do was totally ludicrus...especially with a party that has shown no nationalism and is interested only for what he[they] can get for Quebec,to heck with the rest of the nation. Thanks again madame GG for your wise decision.Bill from MB.

kate
said

Thank you Jean, now let's get on with doing what is best for ALL Canadians not just 2 small segments. We should support all people from coast to coast during these coming times.

ashley in BC
said

"And now we're paying for politicians to sit and do nothing until the end of January. "

....really? You REALLY think they're going to be doing nothing? You REALLY think that they're just going to sit back, drink eggnog with their chilren, and play in the snow?

They're politicians for a reason; they go through the effort for a reason, it's because they actually want to run the country.

Starting a pissing contest in the middle of an economic crisis is NO way to do that; quite honestly I'm so happy the GG decided to prorogue! This means they can all (ALL) let their egos simmer a bit and get back to business.

Mike
said

What a horrible precedent. The GG is protecting a lame-duck PM and Govt. I expect a full and detailed rationale on why she allowed a Govt. to survive that does not enjoy the confidence of the house. Time to abolish the Monarchy and replace the GG role with a Presidency, like in India.

Benoit Lauzon
said

A Canadian "bloodless coup" prevented. Now Mr. Harper had better gotten the message that he is in a Minority Government and act like it and put Canadians interests in the driver seat. Looking forward to January's resuming of the house.

Jen Shariati
said

What a shame. In this economic uncertainty suspending parliament is a joke. It is not the will of Canadians that the conservatives run the country actually more people voted against them. This is just a power grab by a power hungry person who will stop at nothing.

Confused Canadian
said

I truly do not understand how people think the decision to prorogue is in conjunction with the idea of democracy.

"The people must only choose their nation's leader" ? If I recall correctly, the majority of Canadians voted against the Harper government, but because of our archaic electoral system (reform anyone?) we got this guy. We are not a true democracy, Canada is going backwards in this concept and is falling behind other nations.

M. Barrett
said

Well done GG! Now, insist that should the government be defeated in January, that a new election be brought where the so-called "coalition"should seek a mandate from the Canadian people. As people will see shortly, the "coalition" is anything but, and will not survive the light of an election call. Let's end this in the next election and give the Tories the majority they deserve!

Leo in Alberta
said

The reasons we don't get the caliber of leaders (or even regular-type MP's) we should is (i) the idiotic level of invasion of personal privacy of anyone who seeks elected office; (ii) The fact that the media, on national television, absolutely destroys anyone who isn't "perfect", and "perfect" is a moving target when it comes to the media. No one can stand up to that level of expected "perfectionism"; and (iii) those citizens who would be excellent leaders won't put up with the nonsense required to fight their way to the top of the heap within the respective parties, they have far better and more productive things to focus their excellent abilities on in other sectors and they do so. These items have a fundamental bearing on the mess our Parliament is in today.

MRH
said

Never thought we would have a Prime Minister that is worse than Brian Mulroney but I was wrong.
Mr. Harper once again sold the GG a bill of goods just like the last election. Whatever happened to Bill C16 on fixed election dates. Harper convinced the GG to allow an election to be called when his party had not been defeated in parliament, gambling the time was right to win a majority. It cost the taxpayers 300 mil to prove him wrong for the last election.

What about the 2004 proposed deal with the other parties and his communication to GG Clarkson at the time to turn to him if the Liberals were defeated. I don't think he had a majority at the time so what gave him the right to think he was "elected" to govern?

Dave
said

Dave, BC

How many of you so called Canadians who are in support of the Coalition have actually taken the time to ponder what would happen is you put a SEPERATIST Party in power? Do you kow what the PARTY Quebecois would do once they are in power? DO you understand the ramifications to the rest of the country if you were to actually allow the NDP and the Stephan Dion to run our wonderful country? There would be an uprising like you have never seen! It would destroy our nation, socially, economically and in many other ways. Already, major corporations are downsizing even at the thought of the coalition. Give your head a shake and take some time to think this through instead of just reacting.

Johan
said

All liberals, please remember the GG was appointed by one of your own. Now be happy with your choice and her choice. She has shown great responsibility in the face of immense irresponsibility. What a transparent attempt to a power-grab this was!

CN
said

After listening to Mr. Layton and CTV news, I realize he has absolutely no intentions of co-operating with the present government. I have never heard such an insincere person. My only concern is there is such an uprise and western separation talk because the the power grab by the coalition that this could really be the start of another constitutional crisis. Please, let's give Mr. Harper an honest chance. I would like to see Mr. Harper ask the opposition that anyone who does not agree with the coalition, to please step forward and join him. Let's see what our elected members really feel.

Marie
said

So, It is official. The vote of the rest of Canada does not count . So, OUR next step is that if our vote as a citizen has been annulled, maybe we, the ones that vote any other but Conservatives, have the right to have our taxes annulled. If I am not a citizen to have my say in government (Conservative, Liberal, NDP, Green,etc) I am not a citizen to pay for that government. Maybe the Canadian courts can help in this issue...

Carl the Travelling Student
said

Considering the list of unpalatable choices facing Ms. Jean, this was probably the least of all evils. While it was a good call to allow Harper 30-odd days to make the House working again and also see how unified the Coalition really is, I really hope this is a one-time decision on her part because this sets a dangerous precident for future PMs.

For their part, the leaders ought to just lock themselves in a room somewhere, dial down the rhetoric, work things out, and spare us the PR. That stuff only divides our country by way of East-West, Anglophone and Francophone, Left Wing-Right Wing, and only serves to poison the unique bonds within the diverse community we call Canada.

Sally L Martin - Kingsville, Ontario
said

Get rid of Harper. I have tried very, very hard to get my 38yr old daughter and her husband to get out and vote as well as many friends and neighbours. Now this arrogant, arrogant "leader" puts off the budget to keep his job while jobs all over the country are disappearing.
I am 58 years old and have always took time to vote - I don't beleive it matters anymore. I have to agree with my daughter and my friends Canada's politicans are all the same.
I

Bill in Ontario
said

What a boon for the Quebec seperatists who are allowed to vote as early as next Monday! There is no way Charest can keep that province in non-seperatist hands after Harper's insults to their leaders in Ottawa.

Rob in Winnipeg
said

This is very disappointing. The Conservatives have shown where they stand with this, and it is not on the side of Canadians. But for the GG to support the Harper governments stalling tactics is unforgivable. We need/want solutions now and approving the suspension of parliament is a waste of time. Doing this accomplishes nothing for Canadians and leaves everyone with a lack of confidence in our economy. Way to go!

e-medhat
said

Steve, I think you are going to have a lot of thankful Liberals for saving their butts, at least temporarily.

Cliff Smallacombe
said

Way to go Steve. Do-over, Do-over. Remember that kid in the play ground?

T Sanders
said

The true motives are now out in plain view. All parties are vowing to continue to bring down the government. So as I've said before, this coalition was NOT about Canada or economics, it was all about political power and personal gain.

It's out there now. I'm sure this is going to come back and haunt the parties of the coalition. I can't believe they would let their emotions take control of their mouths.

The term "liars" now appropriately applies.

Paul from Halifax
said

Good call Gov. Gen. Michaelle Jean !

Nice try on "the 3 losers parts" to hijack this Great Country!

All MP's get together and make this Parliament work !

Steve Daly, Mississauga
said

Lucky Liberals!

They dodged a bullet... maybe even a shell from the big guns of a battleship!

2 years after being kicked to the Opposition curb they 'aren't used to being in Opposition'? A scheduled video speech by the Leader is taped on a webcam and still delivered late?

The Liberal still need to learn that the keys to 24 Sussex don't get handed out to whoever gets picked to lead the Liberal Party.

Reality will take over now and we'll see stability until next fall.

RRO
said

The Governor General took the route which was the least constitutionally questionable. No Governor General has EVER refused a prorogation of Parliament. Where as only ONE Governor General has ever allowed a coalition government. The Governor General is not there to play politics, she is a constitutional officer, who must follow the law.

Michelle Jean fulfilled her responsibilities excellently. I believe that if Mr. Harper includes a stimulus package in his budget it will be VERY hard for the NDP and Bloc to vote against it. And frankly, after Mr. Dion's joke of a speech I don't think they would want to.

Mark from Thunder Bay
said

@ Prof. Pye Chartt

�Thankfully, Mark, most Canadians, including the Governor General, as well as investors and their markets, disagree with you. Hands down, the majority of rational minds viewed an immediate takeover by the "Three Stooges" as profoundly destabilizing and hurtful to Canada's fragile economy; not to mention that few believed Parliament stood any chance of functioning soundly given the competing interests and ideologies at play.�

Really, you see �most Canadians� disagree with me? I don�t think that�s very accurate. For a Professor, you should be looking at both sides of the story with an unbiased opinion, and researching to see the truth. This to me seems one sided. You mentioned �few believed Parliament stood any chance of functioning soundly given the competing interests and ideologies at play.� - Who are these few people? I know many people who were happy to hear this coalition was finally throwing aside their differences to work together for the greater good of the country. Before you go attacking people, you should make sure you have a sound argument --- didn�t they teach you that when you were becoming a Professor?

JRS
said

Well Mr. Harper this is a fine mess you have gotten us in now. Six more weeks of political uncertainty will do wonders for the economy (NOT). Those unfortunate people who are facing layoffs, pay cuts or worse in the new year will not be having a very happy holiday season. This is the exact reason you have never been voted a majority govenment. Your partisan politics are dangerous for Canada and Canadians. Step aside and let Peter MacKay try to clean up your mess. Oh and take good old Jim with you.

Rick in Red Deer
said

Thanks God they will have some time to cool off [both sides]. They can continue to work on the fix for the economy and prepare the early Budget. Going with the Coalition would have been a disaster! Parliament has been in session how long? The opposition could not have come up with a financial plan any quicker without just "writing cheques haphazardly. The coalition are simply fixated on taking power. Even now they cannot concede to try one more time to work with the government. Bravo!!!!

Roy from Ottawa
said

What did he offer the GG a seat in the Senate after her term as GG... People wake up!!!! We are facing unprecedented economic times.... No time to relax its time to take control... Take the bull by its horns and come up with solutions�. put in place measures to soften the blow to our economy!!! Obviously Harper had no intentions of doing what�s right for Canadians he clearly demonstrated that in his economic update.. He�s playing with fire there�s a lot at stake and we Canadians will be the sacrifice of his actions and pay the price.

Isn�t three heads better than one?

Obviously the Liberals have the best interest of Canadians in mind they were able to form a coalition with the other two parties, Ask yourselves why were the Conservatives not able to sway one of the other parties in their favor, they lack the experience to run the country especially in these economic times..

Harper you made your own bed now lie in it!
Time is ticking and both Harper and the GG are playing games� Time is something we don�t have much of and is very precious in these economic times!

Brenda, Ontario
said

Thank you Govenor General this is the best decision for Canadians. I have to wonder if the other 2 parties and the PQ really read their voters minds. One has to wonder if they were trying to put their own views forward before those of the Canadian public. We need to look after Canadians who have or are losing their jobs and get them back to work. Mr. Harper needs to go forward and the rest of the parties should work with him and stand behind him.

Mourning Democracy
said

It is a sad day indeed for Canada when a Prime Minister, without a vote of The House, can close down Parliament for a few months to avoid a vote of confidence. That is what it is, it has nothing to do with the economy, it is pure politics. That is not democracy, in any form of the word, that is dictatorship, pure and simple. Shame on you all.

Deb, Kemptville
said

This is the first year my 18 year old son has voted. He voted CONSERVATIVE - The vote of Canada's Youth matters.
Mr. Harper you are Canada's Prime Minister - We respect you and are proud and at rest with the sound decision of our GG's decision. Looking forward to January. God Bless

Garry Francis - Steinbach, Manitoba
said

I say the election has been delayed for a few months. Too bad the time will be used just to reload guns! I hope in the next election more Canadians will pay more attention to actaully voting instead of sitting on the side lines. This "crisis" proves we do care about who governs.

SA
said

I really dislike Harper, and his neo-con beast, but I think this is the right call for this simple reason: Stephane Dion doesn't have the legitimacy to govern as an outgoing party leader.

cynthia
said

You can't help but admire Harper's political maneuvering - when parliament reconvenes in January, the opposition will be forced to support his budget, and consequently his government, or face the wrath of public perception that they are unwilling to cooperate with the government. Either way he wins - he either has a toothless, subservient opposition, or he goes into an election perceived to be the fault of the opposition, with a strong possibility of a majority government.

Phil in Calgary
said

Harper's plan

After the election PCs hear about a possible coalition.
Flattery puts forward a plan to force the hand of the opposition parties to reveal their plan for the coalition

Opposition party jumps at the opportunity

Harper backs off to make it look like he is trying to accommodate the opposition

Suspends the parliament to gain time to talk with all of the Premiers, financial advisors, wait to see what the Americans (Obama) will do to add to it.

Also to see who he can pull from the opposition party to cross over or not show up for the vote.

Produce a budget that reflects all that he has heard during the recess to make a budget hard to refuse.
If the coalition votes it down, he looks great and then calls an election to get a majority gov.

Results

Forces an election on an unpopular and broke opposition by making them the bad guys.

RedFox1
said

Yes indeed, a very bad precedent if a Prime Minister can just prorogue government to avoid defeat. What happens if the coalition still wants to bring him dowm in a month? Prorogue again? Maybe we could just shut down government for the next 4 years to save Steve's job. No need to save the economy.

There was no good outcome to this, but at least we got to see the classic bully get bopped on the nose. I guess when the going got tough, Steve ran away with his tail between his legs.

So THAT'S a leader! OK, thanks for clearing it up.

See you whenever you pop your head out of the ground, Mr. Harper - hope you don't see your shadow and get scared again.

Vince Di Ninno
said

Only in Canada. When the going gets tough..
just close shop and hide. If we think we live in a democracy, why can a party supported by the minority think they have the right to govern .... In a minority government would it not make sense to appoint a cabinet with representatives from all the parties to begin with .... a voluntary coalition would show some humility and responsibility ?

Billy from White Horse
said

We need to focus on our exports - BC Bud, beer, smokes, hockey players and bacon. Pretty stupid, eh - just like the non-sense I'm reading here!!!

Vern
said

I'm glad! The 3 stooges are not qualified to run this country. Especially the seperatist!!!!!

Frank Lovasz.
said

I feel the same way about Harper that I did about Brian Mulroney, He's not to be trusted, and his word is definitely not his bond. Mr Harper is a provocateur and instigator!

Bill
said

I think we should go to another election and let the people decide. That's Democracy, and I bet, there would be a majority government after the election

Mike W in London
said

So the politicians don't get paid any salaries during this downtime right?

That would be the honest thing to do wouldn't it?
Oh. Politicians. Honesty. My mistake. Nothing to see here.

Moiya in Hamilton
said

At the risk of sounding paranoid, I think that perhaps Harper was hoping for a big crisis when introducing that useless economic update--it may all play out well for him if we are forced into another election in 2009-he really really wants a majority

Mark from Kitchener
said

Wow this is the worst move the GG could ever do !!!

Radu
said

Excellent decision from the GG. All Canadian should support our Prime Minister and the majority party at this troubled times. There is not time for political instability. The backstabbing planned by the coalition is evil and it should not be allowed in a democracy. Let's hope that the Conservative Party and the Prime Minister have learned their lesson and now will reach to the opposition parties and get some broader support.

democracy101
said

This is a sad day for canadian democracy. Mr Harper doesn't respect the foundations of our democratic system. For ounce, the government would have represent the majority of canadians. It was a proposal for solidarity and collaboration. I hope the opposition will keep fighting with the democratic tools.

Joanna
said

This is the best news I've heard all day. Prime Minister Harper - I'm behind you and the Conservative party!

C Steward
said

Thank you, thank you GG for giving us all a break from this utter nonsense in Ottawa and I was hoping that the opposition would be mature enough to step up but they are still sounding like spoiled brats. Hey Jack, listen to the people they don't want you in power, be a big boy and swallow your pride and really get on to the job that you keep saying matters to you, the people of Canada and the economy!! I don't believe anything you say at all!! Canada first, Sir!!!!

Andy
said

I'm confused. The majority of comments here seem to be against Harper. Didn't we just have an election? Seems to me this all could have been avoided in October.

Catherine Jerry
said

Some of the comments on democracy are very confusing; people not even voted in can overthrow the government, that's called a coup. Also, it would have been a scarry precedent set had the GG allowed the coalition in, why would even thoughs of us who do vote go out and vote if they new their vote would be come null and void by the egotistical whims of someone whose in a party whose own party didn't even want him leading them....scary to think they now see his fit (see the video las tnight) to run the country.
Catherine
Ottawa

Ted Crispin
said

38% of the popular vote.That means 62% of us voted against Mr. Harper and his cronies.
The coalition represents the majority
of Canadians.
Mr.Layton is correct when he says the PM has not been honest and cannot be trusted.
Mr. Harper received his time-out and has had his inactivity approved by the Gov.General.6 more weeks of limbo.
Way to go Steve!

Colleen Morrow, Gravenhurst
said

Thank goodness we have a reprieve from Dion for at least the next six weeks. I think we should have another election. I think that all Canadians should go out a vote this time. Dion had a tantrum when he lost and said he was quitting. How is it going to look for Canada if he becomes PM for just four months, Canada needs stability and a solid leader. Harper should stay.

Kevin, Alberta
said

If there had been no mention of removing the political funding parties recieve from taxpayers there would be no issue about non-confidence(interesting how not one TV anchor asked that question of the people they interviewed last night). The opposition parties would have everyone believe this is about the Canadian economy being in the same shape as the U.S. and that it requires an immediate injection of money but they are not willing to say anything concrete about what they would do other than meet with people in industry to develop a plan.

Turn on the news and you hear such a mixed message about the economy it would confuse any so called "expert" out there as well. In one breath you hear how sales are up, earnings are up, Companies still paying dividends and in the next breath you hear about the economy being in a slump and jobs being lost. Which is it? Alberta's lone NDP MP has stated that Alberta's constituents would have just as much of a voice through her as they would through the 27 elected MP's they currently have(so my question to her would be why dont we just elect one person per province to parliament then since numbers apparently dont matter).

Jane Vachon, Deep River, ON
said

How unfortunate. Her job is not to allow a prime minister to avoid a non-confidence vote. Her job is to see that democracy rules. Stephen Harper does not have the confidence of the House. The House is made up of duly elected representatives of the people. Mr. Harper does not have enough representatives supporting him to have the confidence of the House. By allowing Harper to avoid a non-confidence vote the GG has effectively told the majority of Canadianas that they don't matter.

Voter Kingston
said

Right decision.

Why should parties which were rejected by the electorate be allowed to govern.

They don't have the best interests of Canada in mind they are just subversively trying to grab power.

Sam, VANCOUVER
said

Now that decison has been made, it's time for all parties to work together on the real issue - the economic crisis!

Bruce Nickerson
said

Bruce Nickerson Saint John NB
The only one with a mandate is Mr. Harper, if this is not allowed call a new election.

Wood HoStablerZadoPlunk
said

Anarchy is the only answer!

Most Canadians didn't vote at all; so, the only fair thing to do is to send all the politicians packing. Isn't it...!? ;)

Pandora
said

The recession will be put on hold for 2 months too, right?

Oh wait... duh.

The majority of Canadians (62%) did NOT vote for Harper, that's why he has a MINORITY government. Do your math, Conservative supporters.

He should have been sent back for a confidence vote on Monday.

dk
said

The comment of this being a precedent is absurd. The GG has the right and the authority to make whatever decision she wants based on the circumstances of the day. I believe she made the right decision based on the timing (moving into the Christmas season), and a coalition of misfits launching nothing more than a coup. I hope that if a motition of confidence is brought forward in the new year she sends it to a vote of the people. Maybe next vote some of you lazy loudmouths will get of the couch and head to the polling station.

Michael
said

What a sad day when the people who we as Canadians got to elect do not get to work. People are so upset that Harper will get defeated, but they fail to realize that all the members in the house have been elected by the people to work for their behalf. If the majority want to act as a coalition in the face of government that has no clue how to govern or have any ideas as to what to do in this time of crisis, then that is democracy. These MP's were elected and should be allowed to work for us.
Michael, Toronto (Frustrated ex Conservative)

Shawn
said

Mr. Harper,
Why don't you grow a set and table your budget on Jan 05 instead of the 26th, make history again, 6 weeks of inaction on your part is only going to hurt OUR country more, GROW UP and start acting as a LEADER not a dictator...

Wendy, Ontario
said

Good move on the GG's part. Why can't all parties just get along. We all live in the same country. CANADA!

Ron, Vancouver
said

A couple of comments. This is the problem but also the grace of Democracy. Democracy is the tyrrany of the majority unless the minority is also respected and taken into consideration. But when people listen and respect each other--it works. I don't see any of this happening on the political level right now, and I can't believe how many comments by many Canadians are so 'us' vs 'them'. Maybe only the really motivated or opinionated ones speak out. You may disagree or agree with the GG, but she is really in a bad spot. At least she has shown genuine care for ordinary Canadians so far. Tough call, but it does take guts, whether you agree with it or not. GG for Prime Minister anyone?

FR from Ontario
said

Excellent ... Dion can not be a leader. Even his party had rejected his ideas. This was a good slap to Layton too. These two so called leader are just worried about themselves and hiding themselves behind the sensitive words to people. We, people gave both these guys a nonconfidence vote in the last election.

e-medhat
said

The only reason there was a necessity to suspend parliament was because of the conspiracy by the three stooges.

Kerry from Calgary
said

As I write this, Dion is realizing he will NEVER be Prime Minister (even for a moment)and Layton is learning the hard truth that neither he, nor the NDP, will ever have a say in the governing of this great nation. BRAVO

DoasIsay
said

Thanks GG

How strange it would be to destroy a country because someone is viewed as arrogant. Peacocks abound.

JW
said

Well after that joke of a liberal statement last night, she had choice. The liberals presented themselves as bungling idiots. She clearly saw that they could not possibly be in a position to rule the country. Wise decision.

Greg
said

Appalling to see so many fellow Canadians applaud Mr. Harper's cowardly actions. You support a 'leader' who refuses to show up for work when he's most needed? He's delaying the inevitable and forced 6 weeks of inaction upon us, just to make a weak and pathetic and what will ultimately be a futile effort to save his hide. What an embarassment to us all.

JJ in alberta
said

I am extremely disappointed with this development. Harpers lies obviously worked. This is a sad day in Canadian politics.

John from Saskatoon
said

Make no mistake. This G.G. does not have conservative leanings. In fact alot of comments suggested her appointment by the Liberals and her unconfimed ties to separatists would suggest she would deny a request to purogue parliment and give the coalition a chance to govern. She obviously had deep reservations about what the coalition was trying to do. Think about that without being partisan.

Brandon
said

I don't know if delaying parliament is really the best decision at this point with our economy, on the other hand its a much better way then letting the 3 other leaders try to take over our country like it was theirs from the beginning. I was hoping for Jean to allow parliament to continue let the 3 nuts vote against Harper and let us all go back to the polls and let the people decide who should run this country and not be bullied by a bunch of children. I hear gang violence is on the rise but didn't realize it had crept into our government.

John, BC
said

I hope this issue ultimately comes to the people. Bring on an election, let's see what the people say. Do the Liberals really want this? RIP with be the result.

Sarah
said

I'm thrilled!

Mainly, because it gives time for politicians and Canadians to think. Even had the vote in Parliament gone ahead on Monday, nothing much would have changed anyways...meaning, Parliament is going to be closing up soon for the holidays, so waiting till January for what is probably the inevitable is not huge waste of time.

I think it's good also, because it gives time for the MP's to listen to Canadians...and gives time for Canadians' voices to be heard (no matter which way they sway), and then the parties can choose to act accordingly or not. .... and also this gives Canadians time to decide how they feel.

Not that Canadians really have a say in any of this - that in itself bothers me, but politicians would be stupid to not listen to what we all have to say.

scotty
said

She did the right thing. People don't realize the frustration brewing manitoba west. Letting the coalition have power would have been a stake through the heart of national unity.
Imagine the auto industry going through unprecidented sucess, thousands employed in high paying jobs with endless opportunities abound. Then out of no where harper says, no, all cars must be sold for $10,000 each. The industry crumbles overnight. Thousands of job losses, bankruptcies, lives ruined. No bailouts,appologies or help whatsoever. Sounds awful and unthinkable a pm would do such an irresponsible thing. That is what liberal god trudeau did to Alberta.

Supporters of the coalition like the stat of 60% didn't vote for harper. Well 60% also never voted for trudeau,chretien, or martin. If you take quebec out of the equation, for just a moment, 133/233 seats in the remainder of the country were cons (60%). The bloc only had 38% pop vote in quebec, but got 65% of the seats.
The system should never have allowed the bloc to have such power.

John R - Ontario
said

The G.G. made the right choice, let the Conservatives table a full budget, a confidence motion should be based on that, not an economic statement.

Robbie
said

Harper -...
Now do the right thing and fall on your sword and let a real leader take over.

Barrie B Calgary
said

Cooler heads prevail. The 3 stooges cannot be allowed to form a "Banana Repulic"
Maybe they can try to do something constructive for the country instead of destroying it.
Did my vote not count????

Karen
said

...
I am sure Harper will put together a wonderful budget but it will not make a difference because unfortunately this is not about the budget. This is about power, and money. If you listen to the Bloc you will see that they are all about Quebec and not Canada.
I would totally agree with Harper that Dion is lying in bed with the devil.

Ted, Saskatoon
said

Various comments (e.g., Henry Digger) indicate that the Governor General's decision is a dangerous precedent. What really would have been a dangerous precedent would be to enable a government involving three parties, including the Bloc. The Conservative government attained an increased minority government, only 13 or so short of a majority. The opposition parties after only 2 weeks, because of an economic statement that unnecessarily threatened their entitlements planned to form a coalition government. To accede to this manoeuvre means that any future minority government would be vunerable to a likewise contrived situation. The tradition of this country is one of majority or minority governments, not coalitions. To accept a throne speech and not even wait for a budget speaks clearly of the insincerity of the coalition. To accede to the clear plan since the election of the power seeking of Jumping Jack Flash would be a travesty of the democratic traditions of our country.

Play-by-play
said

Let it be known, we now allow mulligans in the Canadian legislature.

coalition should not exist.
said

darn, was wanting an election, so the liberals would go bankrupt and the conservatives would get a majority.

But hey the coalition was going to use GG's decision to try and take power (she has to agree), so stop crying that Harper went to her too.

Tim Calgary
said

After the antics of having "3 Prime Ministers" last night all eager to grab the spotlight, especially Jack Layton who orchestrated the whole "coalition" I had a hard time figuring out who would be the Prime Minister if the Coalition took power. Dion or Layton? This is probably the best solution for now.

I don't expect the liberals and I certainly don't expect the socialist NDP to agree with everything the conservatives have to say, but now they have an opportunity to provide real input into a budget and get on with governing the country. It's time to put the whole coalition 6 feet under. I am sure a lot of liberals are relieved at this outcome. By the way, although I'm from Calgary I have voted liberal in the past, just in case you think I'm just another red-neck Albertan.

Kells
said

LOL * Henry Digger
Quote:
"This sets a horrible precedence.

Any government in the future that wishes to avoid a confidence vote need only ask to Prorogue the parliament"

... Your beloved left wing was trying to circumvent a a confidence vote and gain power without getting it through the polls.

As much as it sucks that our Country has to sit and wait for 2 months, I'd rather have each party work towards making the COUNTRY stronger rather than have them angling to make their political position stronger.

It had to be done, it was in the best interest of the country.

J
said

Fair enough as the markets need the xmas season and a stable political atmosphere to get the economy going again. If this Liberal/NDP/Block thing still holds water at the end of January. Then its off to the polls and a sure fire MAJORITY for Stephen Harper.
We need clear leadership and clear vision to come through this. Voter turn out at or above 80% that wont be kind to political antics. Very serious business.

Brent
said

This is a good move. I am really sorry to say, but every poll I've seen regarding this issue has been a resounding "NO" to the question of whether you would support a coalition government. From 70-80% of people seem to NOT support the coalition, so I think the right move was made here. Shoot, I watched a news broadcast yesterday that showed 86% of people were not in support of the coalition.

So I say, good! Jean made the right decision here based on what the people have indicated.

Harper will be voted down because the coalition has no intentions of making the government work anyway. Their agenda is to be in power. Period.

I am sure that the confidence vote will go through and I am sure that Jean will have no other option than to put it to the people based on the massive outcry against the coalition. So I hope it does go to the polls and I'm sure that the Conservatives will win a majority.

I'm really sorry, Dion was simply a poor choice for anything. Shoot, George Bush could deliver a speech better... and ON TIME! Dion fails the Liberals, fails the coalition and fails Canadians. Even though he had less support, Layton would have been a smarter choice to lead this coalition anyway.

I am happy because I really want to see the Conservative budget, but I'm a little sad, because I think that I would rather get the government to a majority Conservative and just forget the 2 month layoff. We are at a time where we need to make progress and changing the government at this time, and having a layoff is of no use to anyone. Thanks Dion & Friends.

Desmond Cormier
said

DJC From Winnipeg. Have you noticed when the leaders who signed on to the coalition always speak individually on issues. If this was a true coalition, wouldn't the leader of the coalition be the first representative to speak on behalf of his new formed party? Just goes to show you why Dion is not Prime Minister, and why this coalition should not be allowed to govern our country.

RobO
said

Thank God our Commander and Chief of Armed Forces has seen the light and removed us from the list of laughing stocks in the world.

Bravo to her for doing the right thing.

Frank
said

Dear Micheal Jean,
Your spur of the moment decision on the most important
political decision our country has ever seen should of been done under the advise of expert anaysts on the subject. I predict the same outcome after a few days of meetings and many agonizing thoughts. This inexperienced fast track decision proves you are a puppet on a string. Sleep well!

Wally in Lantz
said

Finally!!!! Bob Fife said it perfectly after the announcement - the coalition view that the crisis was over the economic stimulus package is HOGWASH. It is a NDP/BLOC ploy that started the day after the election. Bring the government down at any cost!!!

The Liberals are now and will continue to be duped by the sleasy used car salesman - Layton.

Also, there is no way the coalition could ever produce a coherent and responsible budget ahead of the government plan for 27 Jan.

It is all a blatent power grab tactic - nothing more.

llyn
said

Some sanity at last! Talk about a hidden agenda from the coalition on what their real motives are. Let Stephen Harper continue working on the budget - we need a steady hand right now - not a knee jerk reaction from the 3 amigos

Alex
said

All is playing out perfectly for Harper. He WON'T table a budget that the opposition can swallow. He WILL get his election BEFORE a new Lib Leader & JUST WHEN he has the foolish 3 where he wants them (planning a coalition!)& BEFORE the economy really tanks -WAKE UP CANADA! Harper's sophisticated team is 100 steps ahead of ALL THIS. THANK GOODNESS there is a few weeks for Canadians to think about what a disservice THE SYSTEM is!

Steve M
said

Way to go Stephen!

You would have had a majority today if Layton and Dion had been honest with the people and said that they would prostitute themselves to the treasonists.

So we will go into another election with the fact that we now KNOW what they are like. They cannot deny they would join the separatists, since they have done it!

This could not have been a better plan for a majority Conservative government.

Thanks to the SLC for exposing their hidden agendas in a feeble attempt at a coup.

You Rock Mr. Prime Minister.

Go get 'em.

Asta
said

...I used to be very proud Canadian....

aaron
said

The Harpers are more concerned with the agenda than the people. It is sad that they thought the country would just stand around day dreaming while he went ahead with his own agenda. I am proud that the other parties had the balls to shut him down. We need more of that.

Smitherenzes
said

So we need a stimulus package now, eh? For the auto sector? They're doing fine. Toyota opens a new plant employing 1200 people.

It's GM, Ford, Chrysler that are having problems. Not Honda, Toyota, Mazda.

I don't want my tax dollars propping up companies that are poor performers. I am a successful business man and I am being punished for that. They are failures and are being rewarded.

That's why we are in the global economic situation we are in. Idiot companies rewarded by idiot governments.

Bob Loblaw
said

I fail to see how this 'vacation' helps Canadians. I understand it likely helps the Conservative party. Is Harper really going to spend this time working for Canadians, or is he going to spend it on a PR blitz trying to discredit his political enemies in a bid to stay in power?

Irene, BC
said

Way to go GG. You have thwarted for the time being 3 baby boys that are upset because they did not get to be PM. Only other solution was to dissolve the government and let us go back to the polls and let the CANADIAN voices be heard.

terry---quebec
said

i wonder if Harper asked the gg to suspend his government's salary as well?

Jeff in NB
said

I have to ask myself, there are a LOT of very negative comments being posted with some strong feelings on all sides.

How many of these people who have such strong opinions actually voted eight weeks ago?

If the voter turnout was as strong as the number of opinions expressed in the past few days, we likely wouldn't have ended up here.

Gino
said

I can not beleive that with the economy in crisis, the GG has suspended parliament. In light of this news the coalition should ask for her resignation for her blunderous act.

Gerry
said

I enjoyed the short entertainment from "The Three Stooges", but soon got bored with the senseless rhetoric. Harper is the only guy in this group with some economic vision. I'm tried of listening to Stimulus Packages, if the business can not stand on it's own two feet, then someone will replace it. I don't hear Honda or Toyota crying "send me money".

Lyle
said

And the politicians get an extra long Christmas break. Politicians taking time off work? Nobody saw that coming. Just when we need them most to fix the economy, too.

Loyal Subject of Harper
said

Hoooray! Yay! Long Live the King! May the Tyrrany of the Minority Reign Forever!!!

Jay, Ottawa
said

Bill said, "God Save the Queen- and our Democratic values. Let the Conservatives take us to the polls in the New Year and give them the majority they deserve."

How after they engineered one of the worst political crises in Canadian history can you say they deserve a majority? That's nonsense.

Andrea Brown
said

This is disgraceful. Now we have a true crisis - a government in power without having the confidence of the majority of Canadians as expressed by our elected representatives. I never thought I'd see this day in Canada.

Janie
said

Makes sense. I would rather have some time to figure out how to deal with one confused dog than a pack of snarling ones.

mitch, Calgary
said

It's obviously the correct decision made by the GG. This time in Canada's history is not one for squabbling politicians. I personally am not a Harper supporter, BUT i am a supporter of stability within this country. When Canada voted, we did not vote for this proposed coalition and my respect for the parties involved diminished greatly when i heard of the timing they decided to do this. Dion and Layton should know better. As far as Duceppe is concerned, well, he cares not for anything else but his party's agenda, much less about other provinces. Appointing a Green party candidate that has no seats is absurd and i need not go any further in that respect. The ONLY true solution to this issue, is a public vote, plain and simple. Those who feel that the coalition represents a "true" majority are greatly mistaken. Those 3 would create such a parliamentary circus, that we as Canadians would be a laughing stock of the world. But then again, maybe they already succeeded in at least that.....

Peter L
said

I am surpised at how fast the GG made her move. Why did she need to have a 2 hour talk with him, couldnt she have based what ehr mandate is. Doesnt she realise that a minority government need to work together, which is the opposite of what Harper was doing, its either his way or the highway. At least the coalition was willing to work together. MARK MY WORDS THEY WILL FORM A COALITION, she has just delayed the obvious.

George Dewhurst
said

The country is now on hold waiting for economic disasters to happen. Great. What effective government is that for the Conservatives to hide their head in the sand? Digusting politics here, we need govt. to work now. Have a nice vacation conservatives, you lazy good for nothing bums.

opinion
said

Conned by the chief con-artist.
Lets just put our Country on hold till the spoiled brat settles down.
Shame Shame GG

Mata
said

Mata in Toronto
NEWS: Now a minority leader in Canada's parliament can act like a majority leader and suspend parliament every time a confidence vote threatens their leadership.

Pk
said

Beautiful, 6 more weeks for the Coalition to self destruct!!!!!!!!!!!!

Matt Audet Kingston
said

First of all, show some respect for the Govenor General. Her Excellency is not "she", or "Jean" to you Canadian citizens. Secondly Her Excellency has not been "tricked" by the Prime Minister. Her Excellency has used her better judgment and allowed some time for the media, the people, and the house of commons to cool down before any decisions are made that would possibly affect everyone negatively.

Jayson of Ottawa
said

I am torn on this. It is what I wanted because I think it gives us the best opportunity to cool down and return to something that could be considered normal.

However there are two reasons that my conscious screams "BAD IDEA!"

1) Using Prorogation to dodge a confidence vote and stay in power is a gross abuse of power. It should have been granted with a dampening of his powers until he regained the confidence of the house.

2) The strategy being used to fight this Coalition could cause major rifts in our national unity over the next 2 months.

Do not get me wrong. I am angry at all politicians in Ottawa for these shenannagians. I personal think Harper should have caved a bit further and offered some compromise on the stimiulis package details to diffuse the situation.

However I am outraged by the idea of this coalition taking power when I didn't get the chance to have my say on their Platform and leader. Constitutional or not this Coalition would not represent the people as it has an agenda nobody voted for, and a leader most of us voted against.

Harper on the other hand needs to burn for this fiasco and how he handled it. His partisan use of strategic legslation to attack the oppositions in a time he was clearly given a mandate to work together and quickly tackel this economic crisis is unacceptable. Moreover while it is true the coalition is unacceptable because separatists are proping it up he should have taken more care how he fought the coalition with this message because it is causing fissures between Quebec and fueling sovereignty in Quebec. This whole issue has also resurrected a separatist movement in the West too which is terrible.

Harper needs to deliver that budget, and announce his resignation.

PaulF - Edmonton
said

ARE YOU SERIOUS!!!
ARE YOU SERIOUS!!!
Wake up everyone. Look at was it going on. Look at what this PM has done. What a sham. All the same, what can you do when the "COALITION", has the ever more so image of amateurish and incompetent.

John
said

I have lost faith in the Canadian politics. What is this woman ( GG) doing? Let's close the Parliment and go on vacation....while the poor people sit, worry and wait...! What a joke!!!!

Shamaro
said

At least somebody in Ottawa has some respect for the voters of this country.

I think she did the right thing, now hopefully this crisis can be defused and we can get on with the business of keeping this country going.

As for the three stooges. Neither of you have proved to me to be worthy of forming a government.

Colleen Taylor
said

While I loath the obstruction of Parliament, I must congratulate our Governor General for following the protocols in place. Harper as Prime Minister has the right to advise and direct the GG. It is her responsibility to respect those requests as long as they are in keeping with the Constitution.
Harper has now bought some time and will hopefully make every effort to have a more cooperative government. If not, he will most surely face a confidence vote in the near future.

Kristine in Alberta
said

Finally, a voice of reason amongst all of this insanity! This was absolutely the right decision by the GG. The Canadian Electorate made its choice 7 weeks ago, and that choice needs to be respected by the so called 'leaders' of the coalition.

Dennis Smith
said

Yes!!!! Way to go your Excellency. All of Canada needs a time out to let cooler heads prevail.

James
said

Any chance we can prorogue their salaries? It doesn't sit well with me that Canadians are working harder than ever for their paycheques this Christmas while Harper's effectively decided to give himself and the rest of government an extended vacation.

Nick Spooner- MTL
said

Very disappointing, the last thing we need in a time of economic crisis is our government on hold for 2 months. I am not a crying left i am just a disappointed Canadian. True Democracy, and the very nature of our political system, has been thrown in the garbage

Frustrated Taxpayer
said

Remind me why we pay these MPs 6-figure salaries to have 2 months of paid Christmas vacation. Sometimes you need to make hard decisions and this is the easy way out...as GG, which you are handsomely paid to be, this was the time!!

Daniel in Toronto
said

This is a joke, all Harper achieved was another 8 weeks as PM. What about actually doing the job, by suspending Parliament he has only DELAYED any response to the issues.

I think it�s time Mr. Harper resigns as PM to allow someone else in his party to lead on the mandate we the people gave the Tories. This whole crisis was created by Mr. Harper and he should be man enough to accept the consequences

Douglas Brown - Newmarket, ON
said

GG made the right decision under difficult circumstances. Good job.

Diane from London
said

I agree with Greg from Brampton.

This was the only way to go with the exception of an election which would have been challenging.

The house is out for Christmas anyway so they will only be missing two or three weeks at the most. This doesn't mean that things won't be accomplished during that time.

When the budget that the other parties want is delivered on January 26 the
opposition will have to think long and hard over this coalition.

Thank goodness cooler heads can prevail.

Ian Cook
said

This is the correct decision.
Lets allow the Government to table a budget and if the coalition can defeat it we need to have an election. Canadians can ellect a Conservitive majority and send the three stuges packing.

True Canadian
said

With the upcoming holiday break, please remember that this REALLY means that government will only be down for about 10 days...

A good decision, let the Conservatives show Canadians the new budget in January and then the opposition will get a chance to again vote on it.

Marlin
said

She had no other choice. She didn't dare go against the wishes of a sitting Prime Minister. To do so would have been to set a precedent.
The opposition will have their vote on a document of substance not a statement.
For those that are lamenting the suspension of parliament, the tactics of the coalition would not have brought forth a budget any quicker. If they had ideasof substance they would have been presented to the electorate already. They have been speaking in abstract generalizations like provide stimulus. They have no details and you can't provide a meaningful budget at the snap of a finger.

The GG displayed good common sense.

Blah!!!Blah!!!Blah!!!Blah!!!Blah!!!Blah!!!Blah!!!
said

I think Harper shouldn't be be overrun because he's a great leader!!!

Ivan, Toronto
said

"Mommy, I don't want to go to work, the other kids don't like me!"

Dale Berry, Winnipeg
said

If the coalition of 3 separate parties does become the government there will NEVER be another minority government in Canada of the party with the most seats. The losers will always go for this option

Eric
said

This is what I thought would happen but it may turn out to be in the nation's favor. The present government will now have to produce a meaningful response to the economic crisis that meets the needs of not only all parties but all Canadians as well. - Eric - Niagara Falls.

Anna Lear, Ontario
said

Nothing says "we are working hard on fixing the economy" like doing sweet nothing for 2 months. How can this NOT be a selfish move on Harper's part?

keith
said

I would have liked to see the Tories go down but at least this will show if the opposistion can stay together or not, maybe the tories can work with the opposition this time around because they know what will happen if they try to pull anymore tricks

Mike in Toronto
said

Shame on her...
Shame on Stephen...

Why should I pay my taxes?

Lisa Koivu
said

Mr. Harper's not winning the game, so he changed the rules, I guess

TKendell
said

No, Henry Digger, this AVOIDS a far more dangerous precedent. Let's calm down over the holidays, and start fresh in the new year.

Stephen
said

Finally some sanity in all of this mess. Let cooler heads prevail. If the coalition is that strong then it can last the few weeks. If it is that weak (which it is) that it feels it can't last then it should have never been given the keys to the kingdom in the first place. This is the right decision. Time to watch the coalition of lefties and seperatists implode on itself.

Janet Qu�bec
said

Wrong decision as it sets a precedent for any future minority government in crisis. Instead, because the recent Throne Speech received a vote of confidence, then the GG should now let the government fall and call a General Election - yes fellow Canadians, this time get out and vote !

Robyn Smith
said

THIS IS B.S.!

Ken In Ottawa
said

Consistent with the Constitution as is a coalition.

The left will be outraged but then they are always outraged about something anyway.

A welcome chance to let cooler heads prevail on all sides.

Cathy Arnold
said

I understand why the GG has made the decision that she did but Harper brought this on himself and the country has to suffer the consequences of his arrogance. Rather than introducing a mini-budget that could be agreed upon by all parties and would benefit the country, he chose to be confrontational. Now we all suffer through the suspension of parliament at a time when thoughtful action should be taken to stimulate the economy.

Martinl Niagara
said

Let's now see the proposals that the coalition had. Maybe Harper can use some for the benefit of all Canadians.
The last coalition government in Ontario proved to be a disaster. The Canadian economic record to date stands out well when compared to other countries.

Hanley
said

Great, just great (not!). Harper whined and got out of the confidence vote.

Now they have almost 2 months to get their act together? They had the last 2 and a half years!

And the GG approved profoguing.

Very disappointing.

Now just who is accountable to the people?

Sharon B. Saskatoon, SK
said

You cannot change the inevitable. Harper will be gone in January regardless. This only delays it but it doesn't prevent it from happening.

Ike from Aurora
said

Fight fire with fire. The lefties tried to pull a cheap shot, and they ended up getting one done on them. Hooray for Harper and the GG that actually had to earn her paycheque!
Hopefully the GG will also call an election in the end of January, which is the only real choice considering that a coalition with the seperatists would be against the interests of Canada.

amadou in ottawa
said

So now all our elected MP's get 6 weeks of paid vacation ? I am starting to understand now what this big fuss was all about. I shoud run for office, I could certainly use a vacation. Untill then, I will not loose any sleep over what happens next.

Heil Harper
said

We don't need no stinking parliament.

steve
said

Big mistake! This is a subversion of the democratic process. Unfortunately, many Canadians don't realise that the Conservative government has is attempting to use the economic crisis to push through a radical agenda which favours pro-corporate policies.

Jeff
said

Yet another tragic day for Canada. Goodbye medicare.

Aaron from PEI
said

This is a great day for Canada. It shows that the GG had the wisdom to rise above the rhetoric and allow time for cooler heads to prevail. Great work Ms. Jean.

SM
said

Seems like an ok plan to me. If we're going to change governments, it seems like a good idea to have this coalition get a couple months of public scrutiny. Let's hear their specific plans and see how well they work together before handing over the reigns of power to them. If they seem like a viable alternative come January, let them have at it. If they're looking more like a Parliamentary Three Stooges episode, and they still can't play nice with Harper and his goons, then it's off to the polls.

Bear
said

With this the gang of three will no doubt have a falling out . The bloc wont wait they still want to separate. Let them go.

Chris in Niagara
said

This coalition deserves to fail what a complete waste of all tax payers time and money!

Pip
said

Perhaps now there will be time to step back and reconsider. The Conservatives to reconsider fiscal plans, the other parties to reconsider what their actions might cause.

I'm glad that Her Excellency thought things through enough to force a cooling off period. I would recommend that she consult her immediate superior (H.M. The Queen) to take advantage of that person's extensive experience in the field. H.M. has more than half a century of experience with prime ministers ranging from Sir Winston Churchill to Gordon Brown.

C VU
said

Poor judgment, M. Jean!!!

Does there exist any way to drop her from this position?

david
said

OK, I say they are all laid off and their pay should be suspended.

Who cares
said

What the hell Jean, that was an extremely stupid move on suspending the government like that, for shame!

Mike
said

The Governor General should have made the decision to return the reigns of power to the Colonial Office in London as Canadian politicians clearly are too immature to govern the country properly.

ltp
said

I think she is intimidated and caved in. Why else would he be sitting in the GG's office for two hours?. What kind of democratic government evades the judgment of the people hiding behind a representative of a monarch no body elected. I think canadians simply should toss out the GG and the Queen.

Rodney
said

What do you know. There still is be hope for us Canadians yet!

Scott R
said

At Last!!
A Government official with some sense, and putting Canada first!

Excellent and Thank you

steve robinson
said

Steve Robinson
Harper should not have backtracked on cutting subsidies to political parties or public service workers from striking.
That is what this fuss is all about.
GO HARPER GO

Rachel
said

maybe now this ridiculous coalition will have the time it needs to fall apart before they take over... instead of falling apart while trying to rule the country, and making the economy a bigger mess than it is already

Matt Gancasz
said

I am glad that Gov. General Michaelle Jean has approved Prime Minister Stephen Harper's request to suspend Parliament.
Maybe we should now explore constitutional reform in light of what happened in Ottawa with the attempted non- elected coalition Government takeover

Terence from Mississauga
said

Good call!
I don't like Harper. But I hate Bloc and NDP. Hopefully, PM could deliver a good economic plan in January.

Elizabeth
said

She did the wrong thing he is on the way out, it's going to happen no matter he how try to hold it off

gumpster
said

way to go two month paid holiday while we lose are jobs and wait for ei for four weeks !!!

MooseGuy
said

Great News.. This will give time for the Conservatives to regroup and allows Canadians time to see the Coalition for what it really is!!!

Zoltan
said

This was the right thing to do. This issue was only dividing Canadians, not uniting them.

Jay, Ottawa
said

We're now like one of those former Soviet countries that suspend democracy when it isn't convenient for the government.

Sadly, this is borderline fascism. We have an autocratic government lead by a dictator with the suppression of any opposition. Dangerous times indeed.

B. jansen
said

The correct decision has been made for my CANADA. Good job GG.The other party leaders are an enbarrasement and deserve to be run out gov't. These three are the Judas Iscariot of the Biblical era. God Bless you GG.

Dan for democracy
said

Suspending Parliament is just as legal as the Lib, Ndp, Bloc coming up with a coalition. Left and Right � try to be a little less partisan, if you don�t like one option, you should not have been involved in the other option.

Too bad we don�t have the same system as the US where we could vote for the PM, vote for the MP, and vote for our senators�. Then this would never have happened, and we would actually have a democracy.

Krys, Fredericton, NB
said

I'm confused as to Harper's intentions. Somehow by stalling all decisions he is improving issues for the Canadian economy whereas the coalition government moving forward would hamper economic improvements? Secondly, where I come from my vote for a party means that I have confidence that party is going to make the right decisions for Canadians. When 62% of Canadians voted in the OTHER parties, they put their confidence in those other parties making competent decisions. Which in turn means that if those parties believe the best thing is a coalition government, I don't need to go back and vote to support them on that - I already did by voting them in in the first place! We are sitting back and letting a proud man destroy our nation... I'm beginning to become ashamed of Canada.

Just Falbergasted
said

I cannot believe the amount of support Canadians are giving an ILLEGITImate Government. The coalition did not win an election. This is a bloodless COUP! Sugar coating it by saying Harper is not a good leader is beside the point. Hw may be but Canadian elected the Tories!!!!

Gunnar
said

Regardless of how you feel about the particular situation at present, did you really want all this to be hanging in the air over Christmas? You know they were going on Christmas break shortly anyway. Like a political mess such as this one would accomplish *ANYTHING* in the two weeks prior to Christmas apart from more bickering...governments can't do anything quickly at the best of times.

Laurie Kitchener
said

I am disappointed, but not surprised. Jean is inexperienced. I hope the voters are taking a close look at Harper now and realizing the mistake that was made in voting him in. I hope that Harper recognizes that he is on thin ground.

In all fairness
said

Did the Governor General make the right decision?
Yes 70%
No 30%

Yes, GG made the right decision.Thank you GG.

Tom (GTA)
said

It is unbelievable, not only that Harper proposed suspending parliament, but that the GG agreed. Now is not the time for Canada's parliament to take a break. Imagine the reaction in the U.S. if either Bush or Obama even suggested taking a break now. The economy needs action right now, not delays. Shame on Canada.

Richard
said

While this decision may allow for some breathing room where cooler heads will prevail it is more than likely that in the days and weeks to come the partisan rhetoric will be dialed up. In the end the government is still likely to fall. This decesion only delays this while the country remains in a political and more importantly economic crisis

Judy Mrenice - Montreal
said

Absolutely Excellent, your Excellency! A very wise decision made! It gives everyone a chance to breath and keeps our nation stable through the holiday period! God Bless you! Another national election was the last thing we needed, never mind a coalition government with a separist tone pulling the strings!

J M Boulding
said

That is just wrong - he has lost the confidence of the house - this is not kindergarten - he should not be given a time out - serious economic issues need to be addressed and his performance in the past week has clearly demonstrated that he has not the will to do that or to work with the other parties in parliament

Sharon, Calgary
said

This was the right thing to do.

It gives everyone a chance to cool down and start working together for the good of our country, rather than on their own political agendas.

There is a global financial crisis that has not affected us much so far. It will, however. We have some to prepare. Hopefully our elected representatives have the maturity to put country first.

S in NS
said

Truly unbelievable.
If Harper feels he will lose the vote on his budget in a few months, will be ask for prorogation AGAIN, a couple of days before??
This decision opens the way for governments to dodge the will of the House at any time in the future.
Can't wait till the shoe is on the other foot.

Patrick
said

Her excellency did the right thing.
Now the Conservatives will put together a budget that will address the needs of Canadians - not the selfish desires of huge corporations whining for a bailout.
As a taxpayer, I would MUCH rather give a bailout to all the farmers that have been suffering for DECADES and have been given very little (if any) assistance.

Terry in Toronto
said

Why couldn't she wait to hear the Coalition's voice? What a stupid decision...she should have allowed the vote to proceed and if Harper didn't have the confidence of the house, let the coalition lead it.

Mikey, Newfoundland
said

Two full months before any vital work can take place with our rapidly declining economy!! If that's not bad enough, we'll probably only end up facing a no-confidence vote after a 'panic' power-saving budget! Harper is NOT the leader we need to get us through this economic mess! If he hadn't been spending the billions of dollars in surplus created through Liberal Leadership we would have had a healthy cushion to finance a stimulus package! Conservatives should be ashamed of this government and this leader!

fitzz
said

Hardy Har! Har! Har!

Will the Unholy Alliance endure into 2009 or collapse upon itself? Let the witch-hunt begin!

Kristen, Windsor, Ontario
said

What I would like to know is what the government's plan will be to deal with the economic crisis this country is facing in the next six weeks. For example, what if the US offers a bail-out package to the Big 3 automakers - and we have no government able to react to support the Canadian auto industry? Bravo to Ontario's Liberals for putting together an "emergency" package to deal with this very contingency - but will it be enough? Or will US protectionism rule and the Big 3 pull out of Canada altogether?

Alain
said

I am disappointed in the decision to prorogue government but not for the reasons the left might argue.

I felt that if the current coalition wanted a chance to guide us through the troubled waters they percieve, they have the right to take the government down and replace it.

Seeing a very dismal performance by a group of people with such strong ideological preferences, reigned in by a Quebec-first party, I felt it would only be good news for the Conservative party in 18 months when the country would return to the polls.

Ah well.

Shifty
said

I completely agree with her. I think all parties were acting childish, and would have been an embarrassment to Canada if this had gone through so quick. If they want to turn it down after the break then fine, but at least then you can make a levelheaded decision.

CPC
said

It doesn't matter how Jean decided; either way she would be upsetting someone. She made the right decision; you cannot allow a hot headed government to run the country. There must be time to cool off.

JOCELYN LEE
said

I am very proud of the decision that the Governor General has made. This will allow for a cooling off period and maybe the ears of the elected MP's will be listening to the Canadian people. We do not want a Coalition Government.

Jocelyn Lee
Kamloops

Dale in alberta
said

Finally we have someone step up as a true �statesperson� way to go!!!

Ken - Calgary
said

Harper is such a coward.

JP
said

Unbelievable. Stephen Harper can't win a confidence vote so he dissolves parliament? How is that better?

Harper will do ANYTHING to remain in power. That is what he meant when he said he would use every legal means available to save the democracy. Our democracy is not in trouble. Stephen Harper's gov't is.

Harper is a pathetic coward.

Adam, Bowmanville
said

Excellent move. This is exactly what I hoped would happen and it's the best decision for Canada. I traditionally am a supporter of common sense and this is what makes sense right now.

Just look at the Canadian Dollar already. In one hour from this news being shared, our dollar has already jumped.

Hooray!

BJ - Toronto
said

Well maybe Santa will bring some new surprises that will be tabled in 2009!!!! Doesn't matter, they will continue acting like immature adults once again and we will have to listen to the BS for another year. Grow up Harper, Flaherty, Dion, Layton and Ducesppe and act like a responsible government, Canadian people are fed up with all of you!!!!!!! As far as I am concerned, another Harper stalling tactic, what a shame.
Disgusted Canadian!!!!!!

Kelly Kerr
said

Well done Mme. Jean!

I've heard it said repeatedly that the "coalition" is up in arms because Mr. Harper has failed to deliver an effective stimulus plan. Might I point out that the IMF has stated that Canada has a strong base on which to weather the current global economic crisis. Canada has even been touted as just about the only country that will be able to avoid a full blown recession.

So I ask you...how did we manage to find ourselves in such a favorable position? Thank you Stephen Harper.

Tara - Toronto
said

This is great news!

I am so happy, the country needs stability and we do need to coordinator our budget with the US consequently it is reasonable and important to wait till the end of January.

The coalition just wanted to grab power because they wanted to protect their party funding. Spending 30 billion in a time of a recession is not a sound solution.

Thank God, we have a smart GG

Sylvain, OTTAWA
said

Great, Canadians are losing their jobs and the road to hell is being paved. The holidays will not be a time of joy but a time of worry for those Canadians who will be uncertain of what lies ahead... great job parliament! Great job GG!

Ronan the pwner
said

Cool site. I like the vids! When will u have more.

Jeff, Toronto
said

Absolutely the right decision. Any other decision would have been disastrous. By January I think it will be clear that this fumbled attempt to seize power by a socialist/separtist movement was an insult to the election process. How about working with the party in power to actually get something done and lay off the power grabs. Ken Dryden's remarks about the PM yesterday were unacceptable and offensive by the way

trev
said

now we wait. for those who wanted this coalition please rethink your priorities and get out of bed with bloc. or get out of the country. and you union leaders can just go away too. unions are partly to blame for some of our problems. remember folks this is opinion and opinions are not right or wrong. have a great day. hooray Canada!

VK
said

The ironic thing about all this is with the house essentially "closed" for the next few months, Harper will have even more time for the task at hand. No private members bills or shinanigans to take away from the tremendous task his is facing in dealing with the economic crisis.

Mike M
said

So much for majority rule... Even if it is divided in three parties.

What happened to democracy?

Harper should resign. All he's done is delay the inevitable for 2 months.

Michael Victoria
said

When the ship is listing in a heavy storm replacing the captain does nothing for the faith of the crew

Jim Bird
said

Jim Calgary
Harper will prevail and the stooges will disappear

Tony
said

If I had to choose between a prorogued Parliament and a Stephane Dion led coalition, I'd choose as the GG did. Hearing Dion speak of himself as PM caused a shiver to overtake my entire being.

While I am at it, does anyone mug for the camera more than Jack Layton? That man never saw a moment to self-promote that he didn't like.

Mike in Mississauga
said

YAY !!!!!
very wise decision
Coalitions serve a purpose in a REAL emergency, not one created by a bunch of power hungry inept politicians, one of which is a separatist.
The conservatives can now proceed with their hopefully well planned budget. The opposition fails to accept the fact that this fiscal management has been going on all along.

Paul In Barrie
said

Remember folks that Parliament would normally take its traditional Christmas break in the next seven to ten days and not reconvene until the middle to end of January.

Not a lot of business would be accomplished in this short period so it's main effect is delaying the vote of non-confidence to a point of time where the Opposition may vote down the actual annual budget that will be presented in January.

Of course, one can expect howls of dismay and complaints from the left but at least it's better than allowing the separatists to hold the balance of power in this great land of ours, Canada.

Bill
said

Exellent Decision -everyone step back and take a deep breath. Michel Jean has seen what bad politics does ie: her own Haiti. Clearly she loves this country as much as any of us.

Thank you- MJ Proud be be your fellow Canadian

Goggles P
said

Wow I must say I am very surprised. aspecially since she was appointed by the liberals, and from what I hear (dont quote me) was a seperatist as well.

I guess surprises can come as a good thing.

Prof. Pye Chartt
said

@ "Mark in Thunder Bay":

"I am deeply disappointed that she fell for Prime Minister Harper's tricks. The coalition would have been a well needed change for Canada, and would have been the best thing for Canada. It is a sad day that now we will have to wait until the end of January for anything to actually happen in Canada!"

Thankfully, Mark, most Canadians, including the Governor General, as well as investors and their markets, disagree with you. Hands down, the majority of rational minds viewed an immediate takeover by the "Three Stooges" as profoundly destabilizing and hurtful to Canada's fragile economy; not to mention that few believed Parliament stood any chance of functioning soundly given the competing interests and ideologies at play.

Sorry.

Jeff, Sarnia
said

Folks,
This was the best possible outcome from these desparate attemps by the opposition to over turn our ELECTED GOVERNMENT. Simply put, if you look back into our history, it was PET who was the first PM to put Canada into the red. Bob Rae attempted to through money at a recession while with the NDP and that clearly did not work leaving the PC's with a mess to clean up. Wake up, all you supporters of this coalition, this is a powerplay that was organized months ago. Lets think of Canada and stability everyone!

Margaret
said

Now, perhaps, more people will take voting seriously, provided the instructions for voting are publicized early enough for those of us who do not have photo indentification can be assisted in obtaining such an item without extra financial expense. French and English is ok for general instruction but a federal vote requires more languages for our diversified population. Wake up election officials and do the job properly, we are paying you to guide and encourage us to vote for a good government. Obviously this doesn't concern the likes of politicians and other high placed public servants. The trouble is the public is too quiet and need to voice their needs a little louder.

JPS
said

Well the Prime Minister and Michael Jean can have a nice dinner at home, in the warm houses for the next couple of months, while food banks will overflowing with hungry children, families will loose their homes and their jobs, seniors their savings. But the Prime Minister and his MP's will spend millions on advertising to help save their minority government. Merry Christmas and I hope you think of those umemployed canadians and starving children, as you loosen your belt to eat.

Norman
said

Mme Jean holds a largely ceremonial figure head position in government. She is not supposed to tell the government of the day how to run it's business, she is supposed to do what the Prime Minister requests.

Pat
said

You know I'm tired of this same old same old - what in the world do people think can be done differently - by anyone - until we know what Obama and North America's plan is!! Sometimes it is better to do little or nothing until you can see the whole picture clearly.

I see that Harper is putting money where it is needed as the needs come before him - he is spending our money wisely.

Thank you your Excellency - now no more damage can be done to our economy nor my retirement savings.

I'm not fooled though - I don't think our Oppositon has any plans to work together for the good of all Canada - but at least they will have to have real and solid reasons for attempting no confidence and this fiasco again at the end of January.

Congratulations Canada!!

Dan from Ontario
said

It's perfectly legal under our parliamentary system, and the wise course to take.

Did the opposition think something so serious would just happen overnight? Both sides AND the GG have time to think this out rationally.

Paul in Regina
said

So, we become the only country on the planet to ignore what is happening economically by closing down the government while a single man figures out how to save his job?

Yes, Canada is now a third world country. Perhaps we can apply for aid to the IMF if we need it.

Don in BC
said

If an election is called in early 2009 we should fire all leaders and get some people in their who take their jobs seriously and try and help the people rather than themselves.

Thomas (Ottawa)
said

Irresponsible. We are in an economic crisis and now thousands will loose their jobs so the Cons can go on holiday. Shame!

Conor
said

How can we stand to have a government so ridiculous in this Country that instead of tackling any real issues they fight amoungst each other for power. All political parties in the house should be extreemly ashamed of the unCanadian way they are acting. They will never have my vote again. any of them. I think it's time for Canadians to protest the disregard for our economic issues. I mean our Countries leaders are now taking Christmas off but getting paid. Must be nice...

Lib from montreal
said

what a joke

he is a dictator his own way.

Doug clarke
said

Sanity prevails!!!!! We have a stable government with pressure on to deliver on the budget instead of a coalition comprised of a lame duck leader leaving in 6 months , socialists with no fiscal prudence,propped up by another party who's raison d'etre is to tear apart our great country while funded by Canadian tax payers.

Markus
said

Every other industrialized nation is taking action to stimulate their economies - we're taking a vacation!

Nancy
said

What is wrong with you people??? 64 per cent of Canadians DO NOT want Dion as PM. Thank goodness the GG made the right decision.

Ted
said

Delays, Delays, All because of the "THREE STOOGES"

AG in Ottawa
said

Just so we understand each other: Parliament doesn't run the country; the government does. Government doesn't grind to a halt just because parliament is not in session. There will be no new laws passed and no new appointments but the existing framework allows routine business to carry on including $$ transfers to projects, etc...

Zaphod
said

Great. Now we are paying them to have another extended holiday. Seems waaaay to easy to get out of a confidence vote now. Maybe Harper should work with the opposition instead of running when things get hot.

Albert Upeslacis
said

In our parliamentary system the party with the most seats gets to form the government. Why would the GG overturn the results of the last election?

Cara
said

She's a smart woman!!! She did the right thing for Canada. We decide who runs this country. And parties that align themselves with the Bloc are wrong.

Wes
said

To Cris,

If you call what the Governor General has done "interfering with the democratic process", I'm quite curious to know what you call trying to steal power from a government that handily beat you in a general election less than 8 weeks ago. Give your head a shake.

joee
said

How are so many people happy about this? It just means that nothing is going to get done for almost 2 months.

JML
said

So now we live in a dictatorship. God help this country. How much more will Harper destroy?

Lana - Calgary
said

Congratulations PM Harper!! Thank you GG Jean for seeing that the ridiculous notion of a coalition govt is not worth considering.

POSH
said

May God bless you, Ms. Jean, for making the right decision.

For those of you who support the coalition, you might want to considering moving to a banana republic where democracy has no place.

VIVE LA DEMOCRACIE!!!

MR
said

Chicken.
She should put conditions on Harper. Come up with a better economic plan. he will never work together with the opposition. got too big in the head. And i do not blame the other side.

Carolyn Mittelstadt
said

I am soooo happy the three stooges are put on hold at least until January. It is obvious that they don't know what they are talking about when it comes to finances! The Conservative government has put forth a detailed well thought out plan for the country and the "stooges" didn't want anyone to hear it! They were so mad that they were going to lose money from the government coffers they lost total perspective on the reality at hand. They are not capable leaders - just angry loosers.

Mary
said

It's a sad day in Canadian history. Jean really wasn't qualified to make this decision and just took the easy way out. She should never have been put in this position. Let's just hope that Harper at least does something this time.

Smitty
said

I don't think my temper is going to cool off. The conservatives have recklessly ignited a national unity crisis, and have been engaging in specious demagoguery, misinformation, and scapegoating. Regardless of the coalition, the conservatives don't have the Judgment or maturity to govern responsibly. This crisis is of their making, and they refuse to take any responsibility for their mistakes. This will continue in Government. They will never admit fault. They will manufacture crisis to avoid taking responsibility, and thy will attempt to intimidate their opponents with unruly mobs. They remind me of Republicans. They seem to be bringing this form of Government to Canada, when it has shown to be a disaster for the US. Although they will have only a short time in power, I fear they will do irreparable damage.

DV - Winnipeg
said

Excellent. Now let's work together to find a solution with proper consultation and a budget that addresses the economy.

Her Excellency made a wise choice to allow this to happen and it is not precedent setting. There are exceptional circumstances that made this necessary.

Good choice and well done.

Mumto3<3
said

Too bad, just prolonging the inevitable. You can't poke a dog with a stick and then expect iti not to bite - Mr. Harper must be dumber than I thought if he truly is shocked by the oppositions' actions. I think he forget that he is the PM of Canada with a minority government and not the president of a US style system. Ms. Jean may not have made the best decision, but it's highly unusual for a GG to deny a request from a sitting PM, so she may not have felt she had a choice. She's just going to be faced with the choice between an election or a coalition in January though.

Cheryl
said

I think what the Governor General did was the right decission. The Canadian people had chosen Stephen Harper to be the Prime Minister and the other 3 parties have no right to take that away. I am not sure where they are getting their information from but we did not vote in the liberal party, we voted in the PC party...It is time fort the other 3 parties to stop wining and start working, that is what they are getting paid for. Further more, becuase the PM had to request to suspend the party until January because of these so called leaders, their pays should be supended as well.
Seen they are so worried about the ecomony, then their pays should be donated to the needy...Don't you agree.

mick
said

so they get a nice 2 month vacation while we pay for it!
how do I become a MP again?
This is a joke, he will be defeated in january so it will prove nothing except lack of leadership while the economy falters, bye bye jobs....

Deborah, Montreal
said

Unbelivable, Canadian democracy down the drain. The prime minister doesn't like any one opposing him so he asks for a suspension of OUR parliment in order to protect his own interests and our Governor General shows us just how weak and ineffectual she is.
I'm disgusted with both of them. What a pair of failures.

Larry in Wpg
said

The three lefty power hungry traitors are solely to blame for this mess and an election should be called to get rid of these three megalomaniacs once and for all.

Laurence
said

Good job.
All 308 MP's in Ottawa that won their local ridings with less than 50% of the vote should go home. All MP's that won their Riding with over 50% should stay in Ottawa. And all the losers in each riding should join together ( that way they have more than 50% of the vote)and come to Ottawa to be MP's.

Nicole, Brampton
said

What a joke. This started out as a mess when Harper prematurely called the last election for his own interests and not the interest of our country and it will end up messy as he continues with his school yard bully tactics to get ahead. Canadians lets all begin to tighten the purse strings, because the upcoming election (yes another one) is going to cost us all over $300 million which we don't have.

Disgusted with Politics
said

"The opposition is attempting to impose this deal without your say, without your consent and without your vote,"

How is this different than MPs crossing the floor to join another party without our consent and without our vote. They are ALL untrustworthy and only want what is best for themselves.

AJ
said

Thank goodness. Let everybody step back, get some more information on the whole economic situation and come up with a carefully considered solution, instead of all this ridiculous infighting. If we have to have another election, fine. But there is no way Canada should ever have a PM that Canadians did not vote for.

Courtney
said

How sad. Just when I thought we might have a chance in this economic turmoil. Confirms what I thought before the GG is a waste of taxpayers dollars. The conservatives should have had to face their mess, now they can hide away on their 2 month vacation and draw up some new mess to get is into.

Settle down ! in Winnipeg
said

I think its the right decision. The effort to create a panic about the economy and then act in haste is ill-advised. The US bail-out is paying some pretty big "cash incentives" to bank executives but has not made a difference in the economy there other than a couple of upward market blips. I think the action the government is taking with the automakers is wise. They should tell us what their plan is and where the jobs are going to be BEFORE we give them a dime. We could give them billions and have them pull a lot of production over the border to the US to satisfy the conditions for a bail-out there. If we help them, they have to in turn commit to Canada for an extended period. The same goes for any incentives to corporations. There has to be some assurance that the corporations will not just take the money and shut down operations, leave the country or use it for big bonuses for the executives. A measured approach beats the heck out of acting in haste and repenting at leisure !

chrisp
said

Harper should resign obviously he cannot work with the other members of parliament. Give someone else in your party a chance to make this work.

Frank in Winnipeg
said

This was the right decision. Let them all come back in January. If the opposition wants to vote down the Throne Speech & Budget, so it be and call the election. Then the voters can make choose about having a coalition government or not.

Jacquie from MB
said

I think this was the best result given the situation. All this could have been avoided if Harper could find a way to govern without waging war on the opposition at every step. However, if the NDP and Liberals want to govern together, they should campaign together, and maybe we will get a chance to vote on that in the new year yet!

PL-Whitby
said

Thank Goodness! Our Governor General is smarter then we all gave her credit for!

Lucy
said

another way of Harper running away from defeat

A Gift for Mr. Harper
said

An early Christmas present of time for Harper. Now we will see if he uses the time to build better relations in an attempt to govern as he was asked? or will he use the time to bomb the country with his own propaganda.
It is a gift Mr. Harper. Use it wisely.

Alan
said

You can run but cannot hide. The reckoning time will come to the the former reformist from the Oil sand land and they will be dumbed unceremoniously from the power. It is time for this country to look into the eyes of the west and tell them: get lost.

Marc in NB
said

Wonderful news. This will give a chance for the Coalition to fall apart and for at least a budget to be presented. Well done Micahelle! Now when the gov is defeated in January, call an election and the coalition will get what's coming to them.

PS:Well put together address Dion..I'd rather have Celine running the country.

Anne - Brantford, ON
said

I personally hope that none of the MP's receive a pay cheque during this time!!

If they are not working, they DO NOT deserve to be paid for sitting on their rear ends.

If I took a 2 month break from work, I know I certainly would not be paid!

M
said

The conservatives are now going to have to work to take care of the Canadian people and not just the big corporations.

This prorogue allows Canadians to have a peaceful Christmas.

Then in January, we either have a govt that functions or we have an election.

Her decision today indicates that she is listening to the people, as the majority of Canadians do not want the coalition.

symons s
said

Everyone should park their respective despise for Harper, Dion, Layton, Duceppe. The issue here is whether the economy requires $30B stimulus at the cost of going further in debt. We are not like other countries. Our banks posted profits this week. Unemployment is still around only 7%. We are in a mild recession and should be out of it by the 3rd or 4th quarters of 2009. Only the auto industry needs a look. Another $30B debt will only hurt us in the long run. Chretien Martin surpluses is what we need. You do not solve an economic crisis caused by debt by going further into debt.

MuskyBuck
said

Lol,

After what has been said by the PM in last night's address to all of Canada that Quebec and their people can't be trusted and are seperatists....

combined with his actions over this past year....it's all moot anyhow.

There will be a confidence vote within 12 months, mark my words.

The Conservatives have gained all of Alberta...and have lost all of Canada.

Guaranteed.

Patrick Teevens
said

God Save the Queen because she just Saved Canada!!

Richy
said

Who knew you could just avoid facing a confidence motion simply by suspending parliament? Paul Martin must be feeling pretty foolish right now. He could still be PM if only he'd thought of getting rid of all those annoying opposition MPs!

Charles - Yellowknife
said

Great, when the Conservatives are defeated in January, we will delay a budget another month or more. GG has set a dangerous precendent in allowing this to happen. In our current climate where minority parliaments are more likely to occur, the PM can avoid votes of confidence by asking to suspend Parliament. This is not effective government.

David - Markham
said

I rather go to the poll then to leave it to the disorganized power hungry self centered bunch. The Conservatives were wrong for not consulted the opposition with it's economic plan, but the coalition is a joke. Our country deserves better and we need one voice to take us through this economic tough times. Let's Canadian vote again, the $330 million cost to run the election again can be part of a stimulus package so long as it is spent on Canadian companies.

Brian Nelson Langley BC
said

Coalition supporters please realize the crisis that has been averted. A two party coalition soundly defeated by English Canada allowed to Govern those who so recently and so categorically repudiated them. Only supported by a party avowed to destroy the country. I realize using the term English Canada sounds bigoted BUT the issue is not that these MP's come from Quebec. That is imminently acceptable. The issue is these Quebec MP's are seperatists. To ask me to acept a Government that me and my fellows repudiated at the polls only days ago because they have gained the support of seperatists is the most divisive thing I've ever been asked to do. If you want to further splinter the country keep supporting this coalition. The Bloc will thankyou.

PM
said

He will be out of there in January. In the meantime, none of them should be paid for taking another 2 months off.

Angelina
said

Excellent!!! Way to go. This way, we will saving the stock market from collapsing.

PM Harper, you have our faith in you to save this country and its democracy from failing.

GG made the right decision.

Michael
said

Mr. Harper had the confidence of Parliament as opposition members approved of the throne speech. This prorogation is NOT precedence it is the appropriate decision.

Live and learn.

What is wrong is separatists having VETO power over Canada. That needs to be challenged by the people of Canada to turn back these traitor Liberals and NDP MPs.

Canadians did NOT vote for separatists...

Trish, Alberta
said

Thank God! The coalition is a bad idea for so many reasons!

C. Riess
said

Excellent, let's let the politicians head back to their ridings and cool off. Listen to your constituants and come back to Ottawa in 5 weeks with the purpose of serving Canada and helping the economy (not sleazy politics and back room deals). This is a great decision and this enables the PM to put opposition ideas into the budget and then let them vote on it. If they are defeated then it shows this is about seizing power from an elected government and their coup is exposed, at which time Canadians should have the final say in a election. That is fair and democratic.

Nicole
said

Nicole in ALberta

Thank you Jean. This is the only right choice!!!

T Sanders
said

We should also ask our MPs to get rid of the idea of a coalition takeover, so that if the majority lose confidence in the government, election is the only solution. That will prevent political games from all sides. Isn't it time that professionalism and civility be part of those who were tasked to lead Canada?

Roger
said

Since when did Harper create this financial crisis, Canada's economy is doing better then anybody else, our banks are the strongest in the world. 3 things need to happen to stimulate the economy, 1) dollar needs to drop, 2) interest rates need to fall and 3) oil needs to drop, all of which Harper has no control over and have happened on their own. Again how is Harper responsible?

MHB
said

Any country that suspends the operation of a democratically elected Parliament is NOT a democratic country!. Period!. This will go into history as the end of democracy in Canada. Now, if the PM managed to supsend the government once, then why not a second time?. Even why not to suspend the Parliament forever and rule as a dictator?. This is a very sad moment in Canadian history!.

Drew in Alberta
said

Awesome!

Exactly what should happen.

Now lets see how many people vote for Lib and NDP in the next election....

Anyone have a sound byte of something freefalling?

Mark Klassen
said

Why does the Liberal and the NDP Party hate Canada? This is a time where we NEED the house to work with one anouther. I can't believe how a whole nation can be divided in a week. Thoese three stooges are not good for the Country at all.

OAK
said

Haper wins again!

Andr�
said

The obvious rational decision. Political disarray during a period of of economic decline is not a good situation. Let the government continue to do its job and present the budget.

Everyone who was hoping for this coalition "government" - get a clue!... And maybe donate some money to 'DionCam' for better resolution.

Happy in Revelstoke BC
said

I'm sure it wasn't an easy decision, but I am sure it was the right one. I am glad she had the strength of character to do the right thing!

ON resident
said

Crazy !
nothing like having a suspended government. Wow, only in Canada !

Greg AB
said

Let cooler heads prevail, and possibly some roll...

I bet the most relieved MP in Canada right now is Iggy...

Let's see what kind of joint statement these guys can release. Maybe they should try crayon.

Let's see what kind of budget the Conservatives can come up with. IF this coalition is a good idea now, it will still be a good idea at the end of January.

fitzpala
said

Great move! For those thinking otherwise a little reminder that the coalition would not have started doling out our money right away.

By all expert accounts it would take about two months to put something together that resembled a reasonable budget. Meaning they would have been doing the same thing in --wait -- late January at the earliest. So the delay is irrelevant in those terms.

This also gives the GG a proper amount of time to determine which is the best route to take if the "Little Three" decide to pull the same stunt in January.

Pat from Whitby
said

I think this was the correct decision in all the circumstances. I implore all sides to put down the sabres, roll up your sleeves, get to work and come clean with the country that there is no quick fix to this crisis ... there is going to be a lot of jobs lost, lost homes and hardship, but that the Canada is rich in resources and talented people who work both with their hands and their heads and together we will come out of this stronger but it will take time, cooperation and patience

Non-conservative Albertan
said

And now we're paying for politicians to sit and do nothing until the end of January.

Brad, Alberta
said

The Harper gov't has established a terrific track record over the past 2.5 years helping to place Canada into a position to better to handle these economic conditions. Now they lose confidence! No it's all about hunger for power through a colalition that could never function properly in unity through mandate alone.

The GG has made a wise decision based on the will of the majority and for Canadian people both at home and before the rest of the world. We have lost enough character and integrity before the nations through this now it's time to show what whe are made of!

Rick Ontario
said

This decision is ridiculous. A Coalition gov't is a legitimate type of gov't and very common in European countries ( who are democratic as well). This is going to blow up in the face of Harper eventually anyway.. bad day for canadian democracy... suspending gov't is like stopping the wheels from turning and frankly an example of gov't manipulation

Keep Canada United - Keep Harper
said

This is the best news I heard all week! Excellent. GG, you have a good level head on your shoulders. This is what the Country wants (the entire country, not just Ontario and Quebec). Stephen Harper has done a fine job and is setting a good example on the economic front (worldwide). Everyone wants to follow Canada's lead and the PM should be proud of that. I know I am. Stay Strong Harper. I'm with you all the way!!!

Tim
said

"This sets a horrible precedence.

Any government in the future that wishes to avoid a confidence vote need only ask to Prorogue the parliament"

Because clearly every situation in the future will match exactly what the current government is facing now.

greg gignac
said

I want another election. And if Dion and Layton want power so bad they must want one also.

Cathy Reed
said

What happened? Did Steve bully her into his way of thinking? After all, we know how he feels about women... they are not equal. Jean seems very weak and obviously bowed to his bullying.

Bill
said

God Save the Queen- and our Democratic values. Let the Conservatives take us to the polls in the New Year and give them the majority they deserve.

Brian - Ontario
said

Too bad.

Now another 1+ months of lies and spin rather than letting a coalition help fix things.

george in Parksville
said

Poor decision. She has only delayed the inevitable. Mr. Harper has shown his complete disdain for the democratic process once again. Harper will now embark on an "all out" campagne to once again bull*(#@ the public into believing that he has their best interests at heart.

?
said

Who will deal with economic crisis over the next two months? I don't believe the economy is on hold.

sharon mansell
said

I love how Jack Layton has commented on Prime Minister Haper's time has been placed on parisan politics as I think what he has been doing since the election has been over, making deals with Liberals, Block rather than coming up with constructive answers to aid in this economic times. What a joke, the opposition party leaders have made themselves look ignorant of the dire times Canadians are now facing due to this Global recession.

BlahGuy!!
said

I NEVER THOUGHT SHE'D SAY YES!!!!

The Whiteman
said

If anyone is to blame for this whole fiasco it is those idle Canadians who were too lazy or too apathetic to vote!

Joel in BC
said

Now the parties need to use this time constructively to work together. That's their job. They need to do it.

It's a given they will still be plotting on the sidelines, but they need to remember that they work for us and for Canada, not the other way around.

DO YOUR JOBS!

Rick in Calgary
said

This is excellent!!! this gives time for all MPs to really think about what the outcome of a coalition government would be, to themselves to their party and to Canada. We need to see the budget and we need all parties to work together to fix this mess. I hope that everyone has learned a valuable lesson from this, both the politicians and the voting public. We need stability. Canada is a family, and no one wins when mom and dad are fighting. Lets kiss, make up and get our house in order.

Coco Beware
said

Good luck staying together over the next seven weeks, coalitionists. Its amazing how Harper can continue running circles around the opposition even when they have the upper hand.

Glen Gatin
said

The current party in power is a coalition of Alliance, Reform, Progressive, Conservative and Social Credit. Having another cobbled together coalition is not the problems. The problem is that Harper is not able to form the necessary consensus to govern. Step down now or step down later.

Ken Waterloo
said

The right decision. Table the budget with input from all parties. Get the economy moving ten worry about politics.

Tom
said

Thank God! Hopefully this will be end of the insane idea of a "functional" coalition. But also hopefully, Mr. Harper has learned his lesson, and start a working relationship with the other parties.

Rich from Ottawa
said

Too bad we can't prorogue the MP's pays during their extended Christmas breaks.

Julius J.
said

Perhaps the Conservative government failed to judge the extent to which the Liberals, ND's and Bloc would stoop. But it is very clear to me that the opposition is to blame for this current mess. They put the welfare of their parties above the welfare of the country. Shame on them! The west will not soon forget!

Chris Jones
said

I think she should have told Harper to call an election for the end of January. Let the people of Canada decide who they want to run the country.

I myslef am sick of hearing Dion saying he is representing the majority of Canadians. Look at the outcry his actions have created he is totally out of touch with reality. I think the fool is just upset as he is the first liberal leade4r never to sit in the prime ministers office and is willing to do anything to make it happen.

karl
said

Mr Harper, in the best interest of Canadians, the time as come for your resignation.

We need new leadership in Ottawa. Only two new faces, one for the Liberals and one for the Conservatives will bring stability to this nation.

Resign today Mr Harper RESIGN.

Concerned Canadian
said

Sad for Canada that a PM can hold government hostage for 2 months just to save his job.

2 months, no decisions from government and we can kiss the a lot of jobs goodbye.

Time to cut ties with the Queen in my view. It serves no purpose.

S & N Barrie
said

Wonderful news! Take that Jack and Dion

proud female conservative
said

Bravo , You did the right thing. Of course it takes a woman to do the right thing.

BrettG
said

Excellent, we voted for him and he should stay in power.

Debi Calgary
said

It took a woman to make the right choice!

the DR
said

GG made the correct choice in this situation. A coalition government of Liberals-NDP which has less members than the conservatives and which is propped up by the Bloc is not in Canada's best interest. There are many people who voted Liberal or NDP who do not want this coalition if it means collaborating with seperatists.
If Harper loses a confidence vote after the budget in January then it should go back to the Canadian people to make a new choice.

Chris Stoneburg, Toronto
said

This is absolutely absurd. Instead of the Prime Minister facing the House of Commons head on and asking for their confidence, he has decided to run and hide like the coward he is. In opposition, he found it okay to discuss a coalition with the Bloc, in opposition he found it okay to defeat the Liberal government ahead of a special deadline. In that case it was the Gomery Inquiry report, in this case a budget. Yet once Stephen Harper took office, it is suddenly undemocratic to defeat the government. It is unacceptable to form a coalition with the NDP and Bloc, and it's unacceptable to rush judgement ahead of a budget. All at least according to Harper's warped point of view. However this is all constitutionally acceptable. This shameful Prime Minister must stand up to the majority of the MP's elected by the majority of Canadians and look them all in the eye and ask them if they have confidence in his government and allow a vote on such. Instead he has been given permission to prorogue parliament at a time when it is most needed to help our great country. This is an absolute affrontation to the parliamentary process.

LeonSFromToronto
said

Crisis aside for a minute....and regardless of who caused it....does this mean our politicians just got a two month paid vacation for Xmas?

That for some reason angers me more than any of this week's news, (and I was angry about most of it).

arthur heale
said

Welcome to a barrage of Conservative propaganda...the next election just started.

Dave
said

What BS!

How can you allow another two months of NO Responce to the current affairs

Andrew
said

This is a great move by the GG. It allows the conservatives to talk to the opposition and allows them to create a real budget with real numbers instead of made up coalition numbers. If they vote down the budget then so be it we go to election and let Canada decide if they want a coalition or not.

Sue
said

It is the right thing to do, and I still think it is suspicious that they announced their evil plot after Harper tried to cut their funding. Bunch of cry babies...someones gotta take a hit in tough economic times, why should it always be us common tax paying citizens. Rock on Harper!!!

Alberta Greg
said

At least the GG understands who is paying her salary!

"....True North Strong and FREE...."

Jeremy
said

Awesome. Two more months of political rhetoric and name calling by both sides. Just what I wanted as an early Christmas gift.

Larry Zoltak, Montreal
said

It's a say day in canadian politics, that an un-elected GG gets to decide what is right for Canadians. We should go back to the polls and throw them all out.

Doug
said

Wow, I thought she might show some backbone here. What on earth are people talking about when they say, "good, now they can come up with a sound economic plan...".

Huh? Harper had tons of time to do that - he's the incumbent! It's not like he just came into power.

This is running and hiding at its worst.

MarkW at Decker MB
said

Proroguing parliament is a move that is prudent to say the least. It's quite clear to anyone who is not caught up in the hype that this will allow cooler heads to prevail.

I'm sure that many Liberals were quite uneasy about this pact anyways and there are no guarantees that they'd have brought voted against the government in this coalition with the separatists and NDP.
At the end of January, there will be a real reason to bring down the government if the opposition is so inclined. This present issue was simply a ill-thought out grab of power that would not sit well with most Canadians who had a say in who is to governe only a few short weeks ago.

Kris in NS
said

Weak decision by our GG. What an outrage, Harper would destroy this country to save his own hide. Too bad all you Harper supporters can't see through the lies and propaganda he's spouting.

Ron in Ott
said

So much for democracy. Obviously the three parties know more than what we do. Harper has run to his Momma as the big boys are bullying him!!
I'm disgusted!! Think I'm going to run to my Momma too!

Lesley-ann
said

Well Well..good for Harper..this must be absolutley killing the other side HA HA Merry Christmas :)

Irene
said

Thank goodness there is some sanity somewhere in Ottawa.
Now maybe we can all take a little time to think this through before we go one way or the other.

Jaye
said

A great day for Canadians that went out to vote in October.

bunny
said

Great news! let them all have a cooling off period, and let them bring downa budget. I am happy with this, I was clearly against the three of the other parties, becoming one.

Nico
said

Amazing!! Seems as though the GG doesn't want socialists and separatists running the country...rightly so!!!

Matt
said

Thats good news, and i am happy to hear this!! Go PM Harper, keep doing your great work.

Glen
said

Well, I guess all the monkeys who voted Harper in agreed that sitting on his duff during an impending economic crisis was the right choice...although history would beg to differ. But we all know Harper knows better than to believe that history repeats itself.

Also funny that he complains about the Bloc being part of the coalition when, in fact, 1) they are not. Only their votes in confidence motions are required and 2) Harper himself has tried buying their votes when he needed them.

Good Job GG, just when you had the chance to get the Canadian people to vote because they're now impassioned, you stifle it. Regardless of who gained power, the opportunity of a lifetime is now lost.

Mike from LONDON
said

Cooler heads need to prevail and now they have a shot. There are many Liberal MPs who DO NOT feel they can join this Coalition in good conscience.

Time to drop the partisanship and start working together for what's best for Canada.

With my kids I call it time out. You have until Jan 27 TO STOP BEHAVING LIKE CHILDREN, the whole lot of you.

Mr. K
said

So is Harper now going to burn Parliament Hill since he's had democracy suspended?

Michelle in Alberta
said

Good move she must have saw the Coalition's true intention's and noticed that Dion's speach was full of HOT AIR as was indicated in the book behind his head during his talk. If he can't even address the Nation properly how can he possibly run it? Incompetent Fool.

George Munn, Alberta
said

Finally some common sense.
Well done Gov Gen.
Now we will have to suffer the whining of Dopey D and his little lap dog Layton.
Love it!!!!!

Chris Price
said

Now the PM can get on with creating a relevant budget. Shame on Layton and Dion. Nothing less than expected from the Bloc

Lee
said

Maybe the coalition will self-implode. If they truly want to work with the government, they will ask for a meeting with the PM instead of a power hungry tactic. Thank you, you Excellency!

A.D.
said

In a minority government, the government must have the confidence of the house. Harper does not and therefore it is the responsibility of the GG to step in. This is a sad and undemocratic day where the parliamentary system is not working as it should!

More time wasted until Harper is exposed.
said

How much more blundering incompetence does Canada have to endure from Harper?

Larry
said

It is a shame what happened today. It is a very sad day for Canada, a very sad one indeed. Now watch for the ads that will come out of the CONS to show that they are the only ones who are legally allowed to run the country. In actual fact, if they have lost the confidence of the House, then they no longer can govern. They do not have a majority. I just wish that the CONS would stop all the lying and deceitfulness that has been coming out of them over the last few days. And it is getting worse. I live in Alberta and I do not have confidence in this government any longer.

Kyle in Calgary
said

Let me get this straight. Stevie wants to take away public workers right to strike, and as a public worker he strikes? Hopefully the Conservative members will give back 1/6th of their salary for refusing to work for two months.

Greg - Oshawa
said

Thank God for this time out!!!

I also believe Canadians have advanced a long way and I do not believe we will accept being pushed out of these types of decisions anymore.

I don't believe Canadians will accept a coalition in January either and I for one would rather see a new election so we can make this decision if the group in Ottawa cannot get their act together.

I cannot accept the idea that Liberals have promised Senate seats to the BLOC and the Green Party.

Keith Tennant
said

Super decision! When you consider that most of what we manufacture is shipped to the US and they are not buying it might make sense to wait a month and see what the US does. Another thought is that we should send our "stimulus" money to the States - get them going and then they will buy our goods. We should know what the US will be doing by the end of this month and then give it another month to ramp up and "Bingo" Canada gets it for free.
Keith in Hamilton

Maritimer Pleased
said

As I Liberal supporter, this is great news. The next election when 'we' have a minority gov't, we'll never leave! We'll just keep it in power for let's say 50 years, then maybe, just maybe let people have another election.

Maritimer happy that all constitutional rights have been thrown out by a news media women with 0 political experience

Craig
said

I do not agree with the Governor General's decision. Rather than proguing government she could have given the people that want to work together for the country time to put their plan together. This is simply delaying the inevitable for Harper, so that he can some how try to fix the situation that he himself created...Harper should be accountable for his inactions..which I believe is part of his stance on politics but has yet to be seen by him and his party. I don't trust the Harper Conservatives maybe if they had a different leader the coalition will give another chance come January.

Greg from Nova Scotia
said

Harper is nothing but a bully. He bullies his MP's, he bullies the opposition, and now he has bullied the Governor General. What happened to our democracy?!?
Thanks Mrs. Jean.

KMC (Markham)
said

Good. Let the Government introduce the budget and, if the "coalition" votes against it, let's have an election. The "coalition" must run as a unit or, clearly indicate to their NDP/Liberal supporters that, in the event of another Tory minority government, they intend to form a "coalition" propped up by the Bloc. Let's see if the people of Canada support Layton's coup d'etat.

MBest
said

Its probably the best choice as this whole mess should not of happened in the first place.

Jimmy in AB
said

We all knew the GG would approve this request. She certainly doesn't want to be seen as being responsible for the PM resigning. I'm sad to say that I must now consider the Liberals and NDP's enemies of Canada, for even considering to enter into an agreement with separatists to topple a government that hasn't even delivered a budget yet.
The fact is, most intelligent Canadians realize that this power play by the left is NOT based on noble intentions to save the country; rather, it is a selfish, egotistical move intended to remove the CPC and grab the reins of power at any cost. Polls show this - Canadians aren't as stupid as you think, Mr. Dion, Ray, Layton, and Duceppe.

Non-conservative Albertan
said

Wow she gave Harper even more time to figure out the budget. Something that should have been done awhile ago. Obviously some are slower than others.

Malcolm McKaye
said

I am one of the 62% of Canadians that did not vote for Steven Harper. I am deeply dissappointed that the GG has chosen to disregard the will of the majority of Canadians and allow the Conservatives to continue to do nothing for the economy; in fact to do nothing for 2 months. She should have at the very least delayed her decision so that perhaps this power hungry individual may ahve resigned.

Concerned
said

Wow, so we have no government until the end of January, exactly what the country needed� I don not think this is the right approach one way or another we need a working government sitting in Ottawa. Ideally, I would like Harper to take �a long walk in the snow� and step down for the good of the country. This grand gesture would restore the confidence of the house then somebody like John Baird of Jim Prentice could sit in as interim leader and work with the house to get us through these difficult economic times.

Smiling in Cobourg
said

Well thank god for some sensiblity!!! Those of you that truely believe her making any other decision would be good for Canada should go live elsewhere!!!
Dion as a leader is a joke, it would be HORRIBLE for Canada to have him and his NDP dreamers and BlockHEADS in charge of running anything. Canadians are speaking out and the MAJORITY of them are against this so called Coalition!!! It was the ONLY choice the GG could make and she did!!! Anything would have been a diaster for our Country!

Mark Maclean
said

Tell the SLC (Sore Loser Coalition) to grow up.

The treasonists should be in prison, not forming a party at the expensive of authentic Canadians.

What a sick world we live in, where treasonists are rewarded and the rights of law abiding Canadians are tramplled by selfish, unqualified losers.

The Liberals and NDP should be ashamed of themselves for getting into bed with these Bloc-heads. Have you NO self-respect?

Stephen Harper ... you lead as elected to do, or call an election.

Outraged !
said

How could she make such an important decision so quickly?! This is a sad day for Canada.

And think of all the pro and anti coalition protests and rallies that'll happen in the next month ! Violence could even break out.

Canada sure is political all of a sudden :P

Rik in Oakville
said

What a shame!

shamini
said

What a ridiculous precedent to set.

David in Manitoba
said

So does this mean that all the MP's will be on leave without pay, until they start up again?
Or that they will have pay their own ticket home...not likely

PK
said

I am SO Happy - thank you GG! Now let's try to work together for the better of ALL Canada!

Michael (Ottawa)
said

Today every Liberal MP signed a petition approving of the separatists having veto power over the Constitutional government of Canada.

These separatist loving Liberals must go!

The GG made the correct decision.

Now Canadians want an election in order to get rid of these traitor Liberals.

J. Thoms Midland Ont.
said

Now is the time to let the coalition members (liberal ndp & bloc )know what the voting public think of there trying to steal power, Write, email, or phone these bozo`s and give them hell,and let them know they have lost the trust and votes of the Canadian public, and when an election does come they will all booted out.

Daniel/Toronto
said

She made the right decision. Does anybody in Canada really wants St�phane Dion as Prime Minister?

Lance
said

GG - Thank you, this may allow time for cooler heads to prevail. The coalition had defeated a budget that had not even been presented. Once a budget is tabled, then, if the coalition still wants to defeat the gov't, they can do so & it will not appear (but still will be) as the political power grab that it was...

Gregg
said

Harper's budget will never pass. All this does is delay the inevitable.

john Ont
said

Very happy with this decision, we can't let these Three Stooges run this country. An election should be called if the budget is voted down.

C. Williams
said

Thank goodness. Thank you your Excellency! Now maybe all the little boys and girls can go to their corners and CALM down!

John NWT
said

wow talk about cowardice

Dont like what the bloc does? Easy solution the tories can vote with the coalition on bills the bloc wont go for....

simple.

Out with Jean!
said

What an incredibly misguided decision. Jean did not even give the coalition an opportunity to speak with her. She is obviously in the conservative bag and needs to be ousted herself immediately!

Robert Simms
said

I can't help but think that all of these Albertans out there who are cheering today would have been outraged if the exact same decision had been made had Paul Martin tried to do this.

Lynn Connelly
said

Best idea to come from Parliement in a long time. Finally a voice of reason. Thank you!

JP
said

THANK GOD!!! Now lets work together instead of being so partisan as to try to bring down a legitimate government! The oppositions response was totally unmeasured.

Let's see a budget, Harper, with lots of goodies.
said

Buy us off.

Big spending to buy votes!

It's the Harper way.

Tom In Toronto
said

Excellent decision by the Governor General. It provides time for the PM to prepare and present a proper budget and remove the rhetoric Larry, Curly and Moe keep spewing about this being about the economy rather than a pure and simple power grab.

Nelson
said

Ha ha!

Erin
said

Thank you Jean!!!

let the canadian people take the time to realize how INSANE the unions are to assume that us normal taxpayers should BAIL them out when they're part of the reason they're crippling the economy in their sectors.

i don't agree that harper is the best leader for canadians but there must be other ways around this then letting Dion be in charge. is it possible for conservatives to elect another leader? since apparently the coalition is only against Harper but not all conservatives?

i'd go for that.
ANYTHING instead of letting those buffons take charge.

Bob Johnston
said

We should all be expressing our gratitude to the honourable governor general for providing an opportunity for all parties concerned to reflect on how poorly their performances in the last week have represented the Canadian voters.

John from HRM
said

Excellent! The way it should be.

Mark
said

COWARD!!!!!

Tom in Calgary
said

Thank god, It sad but needed. Dion will NOT be my PM and separatists will not have their hands on the treasury.

T Sanders
said

I'm pleased with the decision to let cooler heads prevail. During this time, all of us should have a good talk with our MP about how seriously we want them to work together for the good of all Canadians, and NOT what's good for the parties themselves.

Canada should be their focus, not politics. If that doesn't occur in one month, maybe it's time we look at a complete overhaul of the governing system.

Don Ottawa
said

I voted Liberal but not to have the Bloc decide what budget gets passed or say on anything else. I should have known they were spineless and would not live up to the election promises.

Andrew
said

Thank God. I dont think I have ever been as scared as I have been the past few days. Only in Canada can you lose a war and almost run the country.... lose an election and almost take it over. Is this really a democracy. On a side note, did anyone understand a thing that Dion said last night? I cant understand what he says.

Josiane Esraelian
said

During a time of economic upheaval this is not the time to suspend parliament. I thought that the governor general would have had more backbone and acted for the people rather than for Mr. Harper. Shame on you Mdme Jean!!

AG in Ottawa
said

A cooling off period is not a bad thing. After the budget is tabled, they can vote down the government if they find the economic measures unsatisfactory. And if they wait just a bit longer, I wouldn't mind going back to the polls with a new leader at the head of the Liberal party.

The important thing right now is to stop the hysteria.

Sandra Henson
said

Extremely dissappointed. The country has lost any chance of unifying the country under a Conservative government. The divisive hostile rhetoric towards Quebec is arrogant, immature and just plan BAD for Canada.

Mad in Montreal.
said

So Harper has been allowed to duck the no-confidence vote.
From today onwards all minority governments will have this option.

Future Prime Ministers will also be allowed to break their own legislations like Harper did with the fixed election date.

Welcome to the new era of canadian politics.

In Quebec be prepared for a coalition betweenn the ADQ and the PQ to defeat Jean Charest.

And be prepared for the break up of Canada Thanks to Stephen Harper and an incompetent GG.

Steve - Montreal
said

Look at it this way...all of them get a 2 month paid vacation!!
I think it's necessary for the 3 stooges to calm down. Too bad for them that Santa didn't come early.

Erin
said

Dion and Layton were unelected just two months ago -- she made the right choice. Come January, after Christmas, we'll deal with their ambitions the way we need to -- at the polls, again.....

Sean in Whitby
said

No matter what happens from here I hope people see that Stephen Harper is a big reason for this mess and he is held accountable.

First he provkes the oppositions like a dog with a bone and then he stands at the cage and screams they are killing the country because they reacted.

Thanks for nothing Mr Harper. Have a Merry Christmas and enjoy your Christmas break while the rest of are left to blow in the wind.

Jason
said

Thank-God! Now everyone write all the parties (including Harper) to tell them to get to work! It's called creating a plan and following it through.

matteo toronto
said

I'm gonna go team up with some guys from work and overthrow my boss. Not keen on how he runs my company and his refusal to give me more money.

Seriously, what a dangerous precedent we are creating here. Everytime an opposition party disagrees with the ruling party, they can just band together and steal power. What a great example to our kids and future generations. "hey, if you don't like it and you think you're right, just take what you want!!". Beautiful. Robin Hood stole from the rich to give to the poor but he was still a thief right? So this coalition of the damned wants to steal my vote and give it to someone else. They want to steal my voice and silence it. Don't think so. Future politicians will use this as a sign that they don't actually have to EARN there place is this democracy, they can just lie, cheat, deceive there way into power. Go Harper.

Make your concessions to the Opposition, Harper.
said

Or you're going down.

It's unfortunate Canada has to be put in a weakened position just so Harper can stall the inevitable.

PJR
said

so let me get this straight, for the next two months of the most drastic economic crisis we have had in decades, Canada will effectiveley have no government? Why does this seem like an improvement to me?! While we're at it why don't we make 24 Sussex dr a roller rink and Rideau Hall a parking lot? The Parliament building can be turned into a playground for real children... not the middle aged ones who have been screwing around in it until now.

Al Wood
said

Great, now our government gets an extended Christmas vacation til the end of January. All because Harper is too chickensh!t to face reality.

Two middle fingers at all the fools who voted Conservative... you can't delay the inevitable!

Dan
said

2 months is too late to wait for a stimulis. Harper had a chance to deliver one and chose not to. It is time for a new government!!!

Randy
said

2 hours of bullying the GG works great for all the bullies to come

Melissa
said

Bravo to the GG! I love that a woman settled this dispute among men!

Dave Pelletier, Kemptville, Ontario
said

A very bad precedent has just been set. Now any time a Prime Minister wants to avoid a vote of confidence, he simply has to ask the Governor General do dissolve the current session of parliament.

Bruce McLeod
said

Following the GG's approval of the PM's request, this is a sad day in Canadian politics. I voted for the conservatives in the last election, however Harper's unwillingness to make decisions based on a minortiy Government shows an unbelievable arrogance. He created this mess and has made it worse by turning it into a National unity debate. When this Government falls and new elections are called, we will be faced with a country divided.

Anne
said

So in the middle of a financial crisis we are going to give them a couple months off so they can cool down. How insane is that. Harper was elected. Dion was told in no uncertain terms during the election that he was not the leader we were looking for. Why can't the boys just do their job and get on with it. Stop the fighting, you are worse than my children.

wendy
said

Ah! The so-called PM gets his way again! Incredible!!! When he is going to care about us---the Canadian people!!

kathy
said

Great news, Bob Rae is on right now saying he won't vote for a budget he hasn't even seen. Sour grapes by the losers. This shows they only care about power and not the nation. They have started this crisis and the division in this country but won't take the resposibility for it. Shame

JJ
said

Bravo! That's the right thing to do.

fawn
said

The lefties blame Harper and have nothing to offer in return other than back of the envelope spending policies that are short on specifics.

If you're going to spend my money, you need a plan first kids.

Go Harper!

Chad in Edmonton
said

Thank you Ms. Jean! I am impressed with your willingness to listen to the people.

Mark
said

Best. Decision. Ever.

Still disappointed in NL
said

OMG...this is wrong on so many levels...proof again she is just fluff...and how the conservatives themselves can stand behind Harper is a mystery to me...I would consider voting Conservative if he were NOT at the helm of the party.

Curtis
said

Canada can now count itself in the dishonourable category of having a leader that suspends government to achieve his goals.

Yonatan Netanyahu
said

Listen folks, like them or hate them, the Conservatives are the only ones who know how bad tax revenues are going to be in the near term.

Any plans made by other parties are based on pure economic speculation.

We are going through a structural shift with asset depreciation. Why build infrastructure at today's prices when you can get goods for cheaper in a year?

More than the government folks, you should be worried about your bank accounts

Rob - Ontario
said

I guess the banana republic is on hold for a while. Thanks God.

Brenda in Sudbury
said

I think this is the right move. Let tempers cool and come back at the end of January with a good budget that everyone can work with. And the Coalition probably won't last that long.

NBer
said

Shame! This was the only GG I would of put faith in, but facts proved me wrong.

She's setting a bad precedent, letting a government avoid facing a confidence vote in the house of commons.

Another success of the big blue reform. propaganda machine.

It will be scary to see in the next budget what programs/rights will be cut by Harper's dicatorship views!

Dale - Edmonton
said

Now Steve, Stephane, Jack and Gilles can all get together and work out a compromise for the good of the Canadian people, right? I mean, that's what's going to happen right? C'mon fellas, we know you can do this!

Vince, Wheatley Ontario
said

Thank God, the country has much needed breathing room. Now, we will see the coalition from hell self destruct. The NDP and Bloc have conspired solely with the motive of gaining power. The Liberals have been had and will never be the same!

Hopefully, Harper will learn from this that his authoritarian mode of dialoge does not work. He needs to be contrite and become inclusive in how he develops policy.

john r mac intyre
said

Johnny In Kitchener

Saved From The Separtists..Merry Christmas To The Governor General !

Peter T
said

THANK GOD!!!!!! No I can celebrate Christmas in peace knowing my country isn't being destroyed by a bunch of buffons known as Socialists, Communists and Seperatists.

How many more bailouts will Harper ask for?
said

Run, Stevie, run.

mike
said

This just delays the inevitable. Harper is finished as soon as the first money vote is held. The only way the Conservatives hold on to power is to replace Harper.

RHP
said

Whatever you guys decide to do, don't call a general vote yet. All of the people who vote in those things are in Florida, Texas and Arizona for the winter.

BE -- Toronto, ON
said

Please add this to my other post

Thank you your Excellency!

Shane
said

Thank Goodness!

This is exactly what was needed to stop the antics of the 3 Stooges.

Keith in Oshawa
said

Dear Govenor General,

Thank you, thank you, thank you !!!!

Now let's get to work ..shall we please. I need a job. :)

GreenPartyDeparter
said

Well done. She did the only thing she had the capability to do, and that is to follow the advice of the democratically elected Prime Minister. Read up on your constitutional law and your history, people. She is a figurehead only, and has no options. It is all quite clear.

bob from Moncton
said

yeah that's it ... help poor harper to run with his tail between his legs with his 2 months paid holidays.

instead of resolving the matters we are in for 2 months of propaganda paid from collective tax to conservatives uses. Show the canada, Mr Harper, how money can rule the world and how population will just believe anything that is repeated.

I can't wait for chrismas eve when we will have some conservatives publicity on radio saying us how we should think. But meh, Harper have the power of money but west does like money don't they ?

Arden
said

One step closer to keeping out the three conspirators, all of whom are using the coalition to further their own political agendas. Not one understands the definition of democracy.

tom hope
said

A wise decision! Let cooler heads prevail in this time of ecomonic stress.

Nick in Gatineau
said

Sad day for democracy.

Economic crisis -- and Harper wants long vacation.
said

Government won't even have the spending powers.

Way to go, GG. You proved you're there just for show.

J Gibb
said

I like the fact that this will slow down the whole process, allowing us to think about what is going on, listen to what is being said and done, and make our wishes known, as Canadians.

Blue Star
said

THANK-YOU Govenor General of Canada. Thank-you for doing the right thing. Thank-you for perserving democracy in Canada. THE PEOPLE OF CANADA ARE THE ONLY PERSONS AUTHORIZED THE CHOOSE THE LEADER OF THIS COUNTRY!!!
Those Canadians that beleive this is true should confirm it here in this comment section and to their MP.

Dave - calgary
said

This is an opportunity for the politicians to re-evaluate their priorities an align them with the needs of the country. Our economy is in faltering with the global situation and cannot be adequately addressed without working in close collaboration with the new US administration. The break prevents a huge waste of tax dollars on a 'stimulus package' designed more for optics than effectivenes. Well done Ms. Jean.

Henry
said

I really think that the GG should not make such a decision. This is unprecedent and, maybe, we should rethink what her role is.

KH from Victoria
said

Rednecks unite...

Once again Canada can be run by an arrogant PM who only has a minority of seats and no confidence in the house.

What a great day for Alberta!

DB - Winnipeg
said

Thankfully, perhaps this cooling off period will allow some sanity to return. the PM should now take this time to speak with the Opposition and actually do something for the betterment of this country.

Lisa
said

Smart choice.

It doesn't mean it's over, but it at least gives people time to get organized and develop a sound strategy.

I am not a Harper supporter, but I am completely against a coalition at this point.

HN, Edmonton
said

I want to know who will look after the intrestes of Canadians in these hard times now that Parliment will be on hold for two month.

Canuck in WA state
said

This whole situation is like trying to hire a lawyer.

The "experts" are all saying what the interviewer wants to hear, namely Harper request is valid, or that the coalition is legitimate.

That said, glad to see cooler heads prevail and that we get a cooling off period.

Jim-Surrey
said

Right On!

That a girl best thing you could have done for Canada

Vann
said

This is music to my ears. The coalition of evil must not get their way. if they do ... I hope us in the west seek sovereignty!

Wayne
said

Thank God!
Now maybe there can be sanity in Ottawa.

R. Allen
said

Smart decision.
Let's hope cooler heads prevail in January.

mark
said

Good in that the coalition can't seize power, bad in that government won't be functioning. I guess it's better to not function than function poorly.

Fabian Newfoundland
said

Totally Disgusting....we are in a time of economic crisis and they close down parliament....HARPER needs to be sent packing NOW!!! Im compeletely outraged by this decision today....The Governor General should have given the coalition the chance to govern and to get on with handling this economic crisis

The Widowmaker
said

If Stevie had of released a budget update that would have advised of how and what would have been done to help get Canada through this glodal finacial crises/recession instead of trying to cripple the other party by cutting fund and more concerned about a surplus this whole mess wouldn't have come about. Down with the conservitives. Harper, act like you govern with a minority not like you have a majority.

Irene Brown, Toronto
said

Wonderful. Let's bring some sanity back to Parliament now and end this pitiful three-ring circus of a proposed coalition.

Murray in Ottawa
said

Let Freedom Ring

Now if the NDP and Liberals engage with their constituents over the next month I am sure they will come back with the true intention of representing the best effors of the Country by negotiation a compromise Budget in good faith with the Conservatives instead atempting a coup d'etats

Tyson- AB
said

Run and Hide thats what I want my leader to do when faced against the majority of MP's opposed to his plan.
All I can say is Gutless

sadday4canada
said

I have lost confidence in Canada's parliamentary system.

Mark Francis
said

The Governor General has agreed to suspend parliament in order for Harper to avoid a confidence motion he would surely lose.

That is a terrible precedent, which will haunt us for years to come.

Now any PM can avoid a confidence vote simply by shutting parliament down.

Our rights, and freedoms have been eroded this day.

BE -- Toronto, ON
said

"Stephen Harper still refuses to propose measures to stimulate the Canadian economy," said Dion.

he does not refuse... he is just taking the time to ensure he creates a stimulus package that will fix things.

At this point people should not be rushing things. A rushed package could miss something vital.

Alyssa
said

Well it was that or allow Canada to be governed by a coalition made up of party members who want to separate from Canada itself.

I think it was a wise decision.

And it's interesting how clear it is who voted for who in these debates.

JDF - Kitchener
said

Thank you, GG.

Linda B
said

I believe that the parties should sit down and consider what the people of Canada need to weather this economic downturn. Canadians need help when faced with job loss but food and shelter is still needed. We do not need all of this nonsense coming out of the mouths of people that have been elected to represent us, the people of Canada.
So parties, you had better come up with an aid package to show canadians that you do really care about us.

Randy
said

Great move forward for Canadians :-)

Ry in the Hammer
said

Dion and Layton should appeal, IMMEDIATELY, to the Queen to overrule her incompetence.

Sean in Newfoundland
said

I think its a sad day when this government, or any government, can simply avoid facing a non-confidence motion by our elected MP's. This is a sad day for democracy in Canada. The Governor General has done us a great disservice.

D .W. Davey
said

We will now have a Consevative Dictatorship.No doubt in January , Harper will again prorogue Parliament

Dallas Overholt
said

Good!! So when the conservatives bring in a budget that has some items in it to please the liberals and the NDP and they still vote it down this will prove that this coalition is nothing more than a power grab!

Liz Ottawa
said

good! just get along guys. this has all been just a silly waste of time.

was disappointed in Harper's speech last night, but also Dion's was not good and looked very unprofessional. so they cancelled each other out. and Layton came across like a barking dog. btw any chance the average Canadian can know what is in the oh so secret coalition agreement particularly as it pertains to what Quebec was promised? considering that Ontario is such a third world country at the moment, Ontario might like a bit of that cash you are oplanning to throw at Quebec, guys?? I am sure McGuinty would be thrilled! another billion to a province that is already getting 83 billion in transfer payments. when will it ever end? I suspect never and unless the coalition continued to give into the blackmail of the PQ, it would fold like a deck of cards, so kind of between a rock and a hard place since the other provs would not like that much.

if those three do not try to provide input into Harper's budget to be presented in January, as he has requested, it will be clear that all they want is to topple the govt, not help fix the economy. it will not look good on them.

Chris from ottawa
said

Wow I'm suprised, but soo happy she made the right choice.

Rand
said

Simply OUTSTANDING!!!! Now let clearer heads prevail.

Bill
said

Thank Goodness!! At least let Harper present his budget...and then vote. Mr. 26% should never be allowed to become Prime Minister through a back door.

Barry in Spruce Grove, AB
said

Thank God for some sanity. Moe, Larry and Curly can now go away and allow the people of this country to enjoy the upcomming wonderful festive season.

Jenn
said

Because the best thing Canada needs in a time of economic crisis is no government for two months??? What a joke.

DeeDee
said

Harper bullies another woman into doing what he says. Persoanlly I would have told them to get back to work.

Harper's hoping for a miracle from Santa Claus.
said

He doesn't know what to do.

Don
said

What a joke!! Canadian politics is just that. Let's pay these overpayed bozo's an extra long break and allow the Harper government to spend and endless amount of dollars on attacking the other parties. Shouldn't this money be spent on getting the economy back on track. And shouldn't the government be governing instead of bickering.

Sarah, the proud Albertan
said

GG is awesome. Let's not hurry wasting our previous $$ before even Federal budget comes. Harper wants to carelly look into Federal budget first prior to providing stimulus package. Buy some time. Figure out precise stimulus package as Federal budget comes along. That careful method will help Canadian economy instead of hurrying.

Disappointed Kevin in Edmonton
said

Absolutely devastating.

Your excellency, you should have consulted the opposition. Hear all sides...

Harper, you're a failure.

Bob
said

Now every time Stevie has a problem, we know what he'll do.

Brenda
said

What a sad day for Canadians!! What we have here is a failure to communicate and work together. These so called politicians are acting like babies and not doing the job they were elected to do. What an embarassment!!

Brian
said

Finally, a cooler head head made a wise decsion.

Alex from Toronto
said

This act undermines our Parliamentary democracy. A minority PM who lost control of Parliament can just shut it down. That's not democracy, that's dictatorship.

Sam Barns
said

Ms. Jean just suspended the fundamental rules of Canadian democracy -- the principles of "responsible" and "representative" government.

Both the Crown and the Executive derive their legitimacy from Parliament alone.

By allowing a suspension of Parliament, Ms. Jean has allowed the government to rule outside the bounds of democratic law in Canada.

This move is an affront to Parliament, the people, and the duly elected MPs.

Canadian Soldier
said

Thank god the GG has proven she has the good sense to do the right thing.

Everyone needs to take a step back and reconsider why they are doing this. Our politicians are elected to serve our country, something I happen to know a thing or two about. That means you put the country before yourself and your own partisan interests. That has not been the case with our politicians in some time.

I hope by january someone will have risen from the ashes and display some integrity. So far my vote is still with Harper, but I expect to see better from him, and I certainly expect the oposition parties to sort themselves out, they have been an absolute disgrace this week.

DAJ, Calgary
said

Lets see if the "3 stooges coalition" are still talking to each other after the Xmas break !!!

Outraged in Mississauga
said

Well that's just great; Harper felt that the opposition plans to oust him would cripple the country's economy...seems to me that by suspending the government's activities for almost 2 months, you have now taken away the ability to even TRY to fix the problems we're facing right now. I would have hoped THAT would be the first priority, helping Canadians through their economic crisis instead of freezing the body that could make you lose your job. For shame.

Denise
said

They should all be fired as far as I'm concerned...every last one of them.

From Harper continuing to govern like he has a majority, to Layton making a back-room deal with a bunch of separatists, to Dion saying he would *never* consider a coalition with the NDP, they all deserve to be turfed. I could go on with my rant, but what's the point, it's all been said a million times by other commenters over the last several days.

Derek
said

The Liberals can't get their video to CTV on time and when they finally do, I see that my middle school daughter could have done a better job with it. And they want to run a country? Thank-you GG.

In mourning
said

Well, let's hope that the country can survive 2 months of spin-doctoring and stagnation.
Bad decision, Ms. Jean

Clint M
said

Terrible terrible precedent set.

Does this mean the PM can suspend parliament everytime someone disagrees with him?

This is cowardly act by a PM and the GG's position should now be reviewed for its relavence.

Carol Thoro Paris
said

Only in Canada could there be such a sham of democracy.
He is such a great leader he won't even face a confidence vote. What stature in these times of economic turmoil.

Who will want to invest in Canada now? The world leaders must think we are frozen in the Ice Age.

Tricia in Ontario
said

Finally, some sanity.

Now, let's see if everyone can be reasonable, get together in one room and resolve this crisis. No petty shots and no talk of a separatist coalition that will effectively tear this country apart.

The Conservatives have a package - but no one seems to be listening. Why bail automotive until we find out what the US is going to do - because if they don't bail them in the US, there's no point us doing it here.

And to throw money here and there - well as a taxpayer, I don't want to see that. I work for a private small company and we need help too - but we're not going to get it, because as a country we can't afford it. It will be survival of the fittest. And although I'm truly sorry for those who may lose their jobs, it's not up to the government to bail out everyone.

Cynthia
said

RIGHT ON! At least Dion is out of our hair for a bit.

DHM
said

Thank you for making the right decision Gov. Gen Michaelle Jean Proud to be a Canadian still
Harper don't let us down

zippybear
said

Oh well, I guess his gov't gets to live for another month. Bad decision on the part of the GG.

So now Harper will prepare a budget acceptable
said

to the Liberals and NDP?

Then why didn't he just do that?

Does he think his minority is magically going to change into a majority?

Sheila
said

I'm disappointed the coalition isn't given a chance. Think Stephen Harper is arrogant and underestimated the opposition.

Dave in Calgary
said

THANK YOU!!

Lets let cooler heads prevail and solve this as a country. At the end of the day, sanity must prevail and this will give everyone an opportunity to figure things out for the BEST for Canada.

So far, she seems like the only sane one in all of this!

Paul in SJ
said

This shouldn't be much of a surprise. All this decision does is tot give the parties more time to sort things out and hopefully figure out a way to work together. It also forces the country to wait until the new US administration is inplace so that we can coordinate stimulus for the economy collectively.

This also serves to give all MPs a chance to speak with their constiuetnts about what we the people want. Remember our MPs qork for us, on more than one occasion we have seen MPs vote against their party lines in order to vote in accordance with the wishes of the people they represent.

I think this was the right decision to make, and the only one her Excellency could make without throwing the country into a full-blown constituional crisis.

PaulF
said

I can't friggin believe it!!! The clown is still in office. Certainly, I probably couldn't blame Jean. Could you really blame her. An idiot in office and an idiot that in his plea to canadaians last night was filmed by a high school AV nerd that couldn't operate a camera and his handlers being late and missing the mark on delivering said tape. When are we as canadians going to catch a break and have someone in office that can step up to the plate and address and deal with issues. Someone that is not in it to massage they're ego and be oblivious to the surrondings and going's on around them. Wake up Harper. Wake up Liberals.

Richard in Brampton
said

I am glad the gruesome threesome have been denied. Mr harper is Canada's leader and let us hope things will turn out well for this great nation

Kitchener
said

While Canadians are losing their jobs, and Harper isn't doing anything for the economy, MP's get to have a 2 month PAID vacation!
Great job GG!

luis
said

Stupid!!!

Joe
said

For the best, I think.

The coalition does not yet appear that it is ready to govern (based on last night).

Harper also needs some time to try and put together some plans that will win over a few Liberals.

Whichever way the Canadian Government goes, it needs more time to get there.

mk
said

ALL HAIL DICTATOR HARPER

Bill in Kanata
said

At last some common sense. Sometimes you wonder where some brains are. Maybe there is some hope.

Frank
said

Time to declare the Republic of Canada, minus Quebec.

The fact we have to bow to crown must end.

Dave @ Kindersley
said

While not as good as another election, it is better then Dion/Layton in charge of our future. This will allow time concilatory healing and Canadians to realize what this coaltion could have meant.

Mel P Poco
said

Harper better not screw around this time...last chance big guy...
it better be a good economic strategy..

and Thank GG JEan..good decision...

Dave in Toronto
said

She gives Harper what he wants even before talking to the other parties? Why should Harper be allowed to not be held accountable, now he has a free check to do whatever he wants, and come up with a ton of goodies for a budget! This is BS! I can't beleive it! How the hell is this democracy? The Queen should step in get rid of all members and come up with a proportional representation system, then have an election! This is crazy!

Geoff in Lethbridge
said

Whatever the GG decided, she's going to get flak for it. It is not an enviable position to be in at a time like this.

I suspect that when Parliament meets again, this whole thing is going to come to a head again, and an election is still a possibility. The Libs/NDP should get ready to run a joint election campaign if they're serious about this coalition. Work out how they'll not oppose each other's candidates and all that.

Sick of them all
said

I disagree with the GG on this, but she was really put in a terrible position. I think another 6 weeks or so of uncertainty is not a good thing for our economy. Let's settle the issue. If the coalition is going to topple the government, let them do it and pay the political price for it.
They talk about Harper being unwilling to work with them, but they are equally as unwilling and will apparently do anything to grab power. Dion has already resigned as leader, yet he's going to be the PM? I think we need Harper and Layton both to step down, too, immediately and get some new blood in there that will actually work for the country instead of their partisan bickering.

James - Aylmer
said

Great News. Now Harper, you've been given a second chance. Extend an olive branch, and get this thing working the way it needs to!

Bert in NB
said

Dion disappointed us with the bad delivery of his tape. He had plenty of warning, and Harper had his in an hour early.

It's no wonder she suspended parliament.

Warren
said

Good news maybe the time off will give the so called coalition time to think about what they are about to do.

Nancy - BC
said

This is a good decision by the GG.

Hopefully cooler heads will prevail and all the parties will work together to come up with a budget and appropriate stimulus package for the economy.

The outcry this week by Canadians has been quite amazing and hopeful. I'm proud to be a Canadian and whatever our political differences, I would like to believe that we as a country can rise above this bump in the road and make Canada a better country.

Mutt From Windsor
said

Ok, now bring the culprits together and tell them if they cant work together and put a budget they can work with, she will dissolve Parliament and hold a new election at the earliest opportunity. That will smarten up the parade. There is no way that the Coalition can pull this over on the Canadian electorate. $30 million for a new election is chump change compared to the Billions that the coalition will spend to keep this unholy alliance together. Thankyou GG.

Barry
said

This is just another example of the Conservative government of ducking thier responsibilities. They seem not to have a financial plan for Canada. This just saves their cushy jobs for another 2 months.

jw
said

Heh.. Here comes the false outrage =)

Ian
said

Stephen Harper's decision to prorogue government was an immoral decision. I am saddened today that the Canadian people have lost their voice in parliament. We should all be ashamed that we have allowed this to happen.

Dd
said

I wonder what Harper offered her....

Bruce in Duncan
said

Dumb move on the G-G's part

BM in CGY
said

Can you count how long the coalition will last? By the new year, the three of them will have eaten each other up and Jack Layton will be leading the way. How will they ever be able to vote down a budget in January that will have all of their stimulus package platform planks in it! It is a great day to be Canadaian.

Teri
said

Well Done GG at lease one person in this country is useing common sense.

James
said

This is all Layton & Dions fault they would have voted down anything the gov put forward. They did not care they wanted a coup!! and the media will not report this

You can run, Harper, but you can't hide.
said

Negotiate and compromise in order to save minority government.

Or in January, its downfall time again.

GG won't be saving your loser bacon again.

Tlast - Ottawa
said

Thank you GG. Now everyone suck back and re-load!

Merry Christmas..

WDR Stoney Creek
said

Are we just delaying the inevitable, or has Harper been granted a stay of execution. There has to be another shoe to drop in this saga.

Gordon, BC
said

maybe she is useful after all! Way to go

Tom in Ottawa
said

Madame Jean Thank you on behalf of all Canadians.

RN in Toronto
said

Nice work on the scoop, CTV! Still nothing from thestar.com or cbc.ca. I think the GG made the right call in asking the country to take a moment and re-think - EVERYONE RE-THINK.

BLUE STAR
said

Should the government be defeated at the end of January then an Election should be called. If the coalition wants power then THEY SHOULD GET IT FROM THE PEOPLE OF CANADA. Let CANADA choose it's leader. NOT the liberal party at a hotel during a drunken leadership convention.

Subby in ON
said

Probably the most sensible solution. I think Harper's well aware now that he doesn't have a majority and can't govern as such.

Hopefully he'll come back sans Flaherty and with a budget that's a little more reflective of the times.

Saying we're better off than the US or UK just doesn't cut it anymore.

Henry Digger
said

This sets a horrible precedence.

Any government in the future that wishes to avoid a confidence vote need only ask to Prorogue the parliament

cris
said

Stupid move Jean. IF we're going to act like a Republic instead of a parliament then there's no reason to keep the GG's office if it's going to interfere in the democratic process.

Mark in Thunder Bay
said

I am deeply disappointed that she fell for Prime Minister Harper's tricks. The coalition would have been a well needed change for Canada, and would have been the best thing for Canada. It is a sad day that now we will have to wait until the end of January for anything to actually happen in Canada!

Paul - Orillia
said

What an absolute joke that Parliament is on hold for almost another 2 months.

Kevin in Alberta
said

Unbelievable !!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

Greg from Brampton
said

Thank you your Excellency! You made the right decision. Let the tempers cool, let the Conservatives table a budget and then if the opposition still wants to vote them down. So be it. This is good news!

Ronald in Toronto
said

Phew!

Scott ONT
said

Bravo.

Now at least Harper will have time to prepare a budget to present.

Can't way to hear the crying for the left

Chris, Newfoundland
said

Just when I thought she was finally going to earn the money the Canadian taxpayers are paying her.... How sad that Mr. Harper will be allowed to defer facing the mess he created.

RVH
said

EXCELLENT!!

Analysis

Undemocratic?

Just how valid is Stephen Harper's claim that changing governments without a new election would be undemocratic?

Bloc Talk

Harper's rhetoric on the Bloc risks alienating Quebec, experts say.

Coalition FAQ

Changing governments without an election. Can they do this?

Interactive

Sizing up Parliament

Who's who in the House of Commons: Find out where your MP sits.

CTV Video Player

Mike Duffy Live

Thursday, Dec. 4: What does the PM need to do to find common ground with the opposition?

Pulse of the nation

How are Canadians reacting to issues of co-operation, sovereignty and trust brought up by the parliamentary crisis?

MPs divided

Along with strong MP reaction on the prorogation of Parliament, Liberal MPs are also speaking out on their leadership.

Harper's address

Watch Stephen Harper's address to the Canadian people and reaction from analysts and pollsters.

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Watch as Liberal Leader Stephane Dion responds with his economic plan.

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