PM attacks coalition as harmful; preps GG meeting

Stephen Harper says we are at a pivotal moment in Canadian history and he's not giving up. In a nationally televised address he refused to yield to a coalition of Liberals and NDP supported by the Bloc Quebecois. Stephane Dion countered that Harper has lost the right to govern.

CTV News: Correspondents on where Stephen Harper went wrong in his address to Canadians and what's gong to happen now

Correspondents discuss the uproar in parliament, in which some say this crisis is coming at the expense of Canadians and others say the prime minister failed at convincing Canadians of his plans for the economy and failed to reach out to the Liberals.

CTV News: Robert Fife on what the prime minister was attempting to do in his address to the nation

Prime Minister Stephen Harper took to the airwaves and while he was not trying to change the minds of the coalition members, rather he was trying to reach over them and convince Canadians that the coalition aligned with the Bloc Quebecois is a threat to the economy and national unity.

CTV News: Roger Smith reports on Harper's appeal to the Canadian populous

Prime Minister Stephen Harper said that an opposition plan to oust his government and seize power would be bad for the country's economy and potentially scar Canada's long history of democracy.

CTV News Special: Robert Fife on a short speech with few concessions and what effect it is likely to have

While some expected a longer speech with a few moments of contrition, Stephen Harper held firm in his address, saying his government has already provided economic stimulus.

CTV News Special: Craig Oliver with details on what the speech was lacking and why it is unlikely to stop the coalition

With the economy continuing to stumble, Stephen Harper's abbreviated speech offerred little and is likely to stop the coalition or satisfy worried Canadians.

CTV News Special: Graham Richardson on the political crisis gripping the Canadian Parliament and how it has deeply divided Canadians

The political crisis gripping the Canadian Parliament has deeply divided Canadians, as the Conservatives vow to stay in power.

CTV Newsnet: Bruce Hicks, Canada Research Chair, Electoral Studies, on why the PM and GG must meet before a decision is made

The Governor General must respond to her first advisor, the Prime Minister of Canada, before making a recommendation about what should be done to resolve the political crisis.

CTV Newsnet: Luc Juillet, professor of political studies at the University of Ottawa, says the Governor General must struggle with constitutional law to make a decision

As the Governor General must struggle with constitutional law to make a decision on the future of the government, some purportedly involved in the coalition say it's not really the case.

CTV Newsnet: Chris Dornan, director of the Arthur Kroeger College of Public Affairs and associate dean of the Faculty of Public Affairs at Carleton University, on the GG's options

The Governor General must decide whether to prorogue Parliament, call an election or allow the Liberal-NDP coalition to take power.

CTV Newsnet: Ottawa Bureau Chief Robert Fife on what happens when the PM and GG meet

Prime Minister Stephen Harper is expected to meet with Governor General Michaelle Jean in the next couple of days, when she will have to decide how to deal with the current political crisis.

CTV Newsnet: B.C. NDP MP Bill Siksay on the economic focus of the coalition

The NDP hope to deliver the message that this situation is all about what needs to be done to address the economic crisis, and what should have been in the economic statement.

CTV Newsnet: Jason Kenney, immigration minister, on how western Canadians are reacting

Conservative MPs from the western provinces say their constituents view the proposed coalition as very damaging to the west.

CTV Newsnet: Rodger Kuzner, Liberal Whip, N.S. MP, on what supporters are saying

Liberal supporters are reportedly telling their MPs Prime Minister Harper cannot dictate how the country is run and ignore the needs of the people.

CTV Newsnet: Bryon Wilfert, Liberal foreign affairs critic, on criticism of the Bloc's involvement

One Stephane Dion advisor says raising concerns over working with the Bloc Quebecois makes no sense since they will only be consulted.

CTV Newsnet: Natural Resources Minister Lisa Raitt on how the PM is handling the situation

Conservative MPs arriving for a caucus meeting say they couldn't be prouder of how Prime Minister Stephen Harper is handling the current crisis.

Canada AM: Peter Russell, a political scientists from the University of Toronto, on popular opinion

In the midst of a coalition showdown, Canadians are deeply divided on whether the Conservatives deserve to stay in power, according to an Angus Reid Strategies poll.

Canada AM: Nelson Wiseman, political scientist at University of Toronto, discusses the GG's role in the crisis

A political scientist discusses what role the governor general will play in the ongoing political crisis and shares insight into whether or not she will prorogue Parliament.

Canada AM: Industry Minister Tony Clement on Tory caucus unity

One of the Conservatives senior caucus members comments on reports that many party members are unhappy with the prime minister, saying 'the caucus is extremely unified.'

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CTV.ca News Staff

Date: Wed. Dec. 3 2008 10:33 PM ET

Prime Minister Stephen Harper is expected to ask for a parliamentary time out when he meets with Gov. Gen. Michaelle Jean Thursday morning, a day after he accused his political opponents of abusing Canada's democratic traditions.

During a five-minute pre-taped address broadcast Wednesday evening, Harper said the opposition plans to oust his government and seize power would also be bad for the country's economy.

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

Harper's expected 9:30 a.m. meeting with Jean on Thursday is the latest development in a history-making political storm which erupted earlier this week when the Liberals and NDP formed a coalition, with the support of the Bloc Quebecois, to topple the government.

"At a time like this, a collation with separatists cannot help Canada," said Harper.

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.

"Canada's government is acting to deal with the crisis right now," he said, adding that the opposition parties should "bring forward specific proposals.

"In fact, we have already changed some of our own proposals to meet their concerns."

Later on Wednesday, Liberal Leader Stephane Dion took to the airwaves and said the Conservatives have done little to help Canadians cope with the global economic crisis.

"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.

Dion also worked to reassure Canadians that a coalition government could efficiently work for the best interests of the country.

"Coalitions are normal and current practice in many parts of the world and are able to work very successfully," he said.

"They work with simple ingredients: consensus, goodwill and cooperation. Consensus is a great Canadian value."

NDP and Bloc respond

The NDP's Jack Layton said Wednesday that while other countries have been working to stimulate their economies, the Conservatives have been wasting time with partisan politics.

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

"Tonight, only one party stands in the way of a government that actually works for Canadians," said Layton.

"Instead of acting on these ideas ... Mr. Harper delivered a partisan attack," he said.

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.

The coalition has already informed Jean they have a formal agreement to govern if the Conservatives are toppled on a confidence motion scheduled for Monday.

If that happened, Jean would have to decide whether to send Canadians to the polls or give the coalition the chance to win the confidence of the House of Commons.

But it is expected Harper will ask Jean to prorogue Parliament later this week, until late January, to prevent the confidence motion.

If Jean denies Harper's request for the prorogation, he would be expected to resign.

Bloc Leader Gilles Duceppe echoed Layton's sentiments and said that Harper has also attacked Quebecers and democracy

"Stephen Harper showed a serious and worrisome lack of judgment by making putting his party's ideology before the economy," he said Wednesday.

"By acting in an incendiary way, he showed himself unable to govern," he said, adding that Harper's actions have cost him the confidence and trust of Parliament.

Harper's options

Ted McWhinney, a lawyer, former Liberal MP and constitutional expert, told CTV's Mike Duffy Live that Jean does not need to give Harper an answer right away and should talk with a number of advisers.

He also said Jean needs to weigh public opinion on the matter.

"Public opinion is about 50 per cent of constitutional law," McWhinney said Wednesday. "The common sense element is crucial in these things.

McWhinney said there "is a heavy burden" on the opposition to prove that they can form a stable coalition government.

He said it's important for the opposition to put an agreement down on paper, like they have already done, but said the agreement needs to be signed by the Bloc Quebecois in addition to the Liberals and NDP.

McWhinney called the current agreement as is "unsatisfactory."

The Conservatives had planned to deliver their budget on Jan. 27 -- a plan now seen as tenuous.

PR war

Meanwhile, the Conservatives have launched an all-out war, following up Tuesday radio ads with scathing television ads on Wednesday.

In one of the ads a black and white image of Dion -- who would take over as prime minister under the coalition's plan -- is shown while a female voice repeats a central Conservative message that accuses Dion of a power grab.

"In the last election just a few weeks ago Canadians overwhelmingly said 'no' to Stephane Dion as prime minister. Now just a few weeks later Stephane Dion is trying to overturn the election he lost and take power through the back door."

The ad then warns that Dion has given too much power to the Bloc, which would support the coalition but remain outside of government.

Comments are now closed for this story

Alok Chadha
said

I understand that as Canada moves forward with multiple party system, we will be seeing many more coalition governments in coming years. Perhaps, it is happening first time and that's why this hue & cry. However, my understanding is that though a bit unstable to begin with coalition governments are best for people of the country. The parties of the coalition check themselves more than even the opposition can because every party wants to project itself as next true alternative and that helps the country to be served better.

As for this alliance, it is neither illegitimate nor unholy. No party got the majority and Stephen Harper was rightly called to install a minority government. He failed in his duty to take opposition into confidence while running a minority government. Now, if he losses confidence in the Parliament and he still tries to hang on that will be actually death of the democracy. If he wants to project himself as true democratic leader, he should face confidence motion.

Kathleen Walker, Maple Ridge, British Columbia
said

After a lot of thought and research I didn't vote for the parties or platforms of Larry, the anti-Canadian, Curley, the dual citizen, or Moe the socialist, or any combination of the above. I actually did get off my duff to vote. Supporters of the "coalition" did you actually vote?

Fred in Cochrane
said

This has to be a bad joke. To see 3 big time losers wanting to run this country.Dion seems brain dead and if Jack was finance minister,goodbye Canada These bozos propose to hand out blank cheques with no plan of action from the beggers.Then a bloody separatist to boot.
The democratic world must be giggling to watch this fiasco

Chris S.
said

I'm sorry I thought I was a citizen of Canada & I'm sure I placed my vote of who I think should be the prime minister and that person & that party won the election. So if it only takes two parties to gang up on the one in power to checnge the government why do we bother wasting our time voting if this can happen. Especially since dion is the biggest embarrasment to Canada's political party. So bad that some of the Liberals strongest ridings dump them. So now he could be running Canada (God help us all). Well since my vote meant absolutely nothing I WANT MY TIME & GAS MONEY BACK NOW!!!! And I will NEVER VOTE IN A CANADIAN ELECTION AGAIN since my vote is not considered worthy. USA here I come.

JR from Montreal
said

Harper has proven to us that he is useless - he lowered the GST to get elected and guess what....we now will not have a balanced budget. It is expected that we will go in to the red thanks to him and his useless policies. A friend of mine in Ottawa close to the Caucus passed on that the Caucus is not happy with Harper and the Finance Minister because of their bungling. I can't see how the Provinces of Quebec and Ontario would be backing these cronies, who have not presented a plan to help the workers who will soon be out of their jobs. Wake up you people...Harper is from Alberta and could care less what happens in Quebec and Ontario.

Cochrane
said

We're so lucky to have Steven Harper as our prime minister because we don't live in a third world country, we live in peace and harmony, while we have 3 opposition leaders wanting to try something different to see what would happen if we weren't in peace and harmony. The Angus Reid polls were rigged, and the seperatists are in favor of seperating Canada. Don't let these idiots take Canada away from us, or else freedom won't be free for long.

James, Airdrie Alberta
said

The conservatives have not lost the confidence of the House of Commons. This is simply a matter of Stephen Dion not accepting his sounding defeat in the last election. If this does get put to yet another election, I hope the Dion ends up in the back benches of the house where he belongs.

Tim
said

All of this nonsense proves to me, that we should change the constitution, to ban political parties! This country should be governed by committee... just like every other organization in this world.

Peter in New Hazelton
said

If the Coalition is a success then it won't be long before the people who think their jobs will suddenly be safe will be forced to wake up and smell the coffee and realize that they didn't find a Saviour after all.

Diane - London
said

It's a sad statement when a party with no representation outside of one province, another that came third and lastly one that cannot even manage their own fiscal house and were basically leaderless just weeks ago, can now claim to be the knights in shining armour to save the Canadian economy. Voters didn't think their ideas were good enough at the time of the election or the results would have been different. Please work together!

Ian in Sask
said

Mr. Layton is telling all of Canada that Mr. Harper should not be Prime Minister because he did not receive over 50% of the popular vote. Using that logic why is he representing his riding when he, himself did not receive over 50% of the popular vote. I guess the candidates he ran against should form a coalition and represent that riding.

eldon from NB
said

My first response to this mess is LETS VOTE AGAIN !!!!!!!!!!
Next time i bet that Harper will have a majority.
The whole non-confidence vote issue should be scrapped and the elected force to get work and rework legislation untill it is passable.
What these strange bed fellows are up to might be in their interests but not mine and the interest of most Canadians.

Dan
said

30 million dollars is a very small price to pay for democracy. Hell, that many people have given their lives for democracy! That's not even a buck a head. I probably have that in my couch! I'll gladly toss in a ten for another election. Besides which, it's not a $30 million write off. Most of that goes to paying poll workers, most of whom are seniors, students, housewives, etc who need and will spend the money. If the opposition want stimulus an election is about as good a stimulus as you can get.

Mary Clarke
said

This "Coalition" Govt. rec'd only 21 seats West of Ontario.
Does anyone truly wonder,why the West is angry?
A Coalition Govt.led by 2 Quebecer's, one, a self proclaimed separatist, and one an Ontarian,trying to usurp the election results.
I am an Ontarian,but will gladly move West,to oppose this fiasco.
This Country has been politically divided for years.
This is nothing new.
But to "steal" election results is.
The West finally had some say in how our Govt. is run.with fiscal prudence and thought-rather than panicked spendthrift policies,that maydo nothing but leave our Country in massive debt.
We are dependent on the Global Economy,and must leave a lot of room to be cohesive with Global Policies.
The current Global situation has not been played out,and will take caution,pragmatic decisions and time.
That's exactly what the Govt. is TRYING to do,and exactly what they said they would do.
Throwing around Billions of taxpayer dollars in an attempt to simply find short term fixes,is not what this Country needs.[IMHO]
This is a Global Crisis,not simply a Canadian one.
We need to be unified in the Global solution,which has not yet been worked out.
Frantic and massive unproductive spending is the last thing we need.
Harper has already said this.
But the Coalition seems to believe that immediate massive spending,regardless of the outcome,is the preferred method.
These are unprecented times of uncertainty in Global economics.
I would prefer that we tread very carefully,rather than massively spend,where in the end it has no prolonged benefit,and only leaves our predecessors in huge debt.

Kelly Perron
said

My only hope is that the govenor general lets harper stay in government. people will agree with me when i say that harper made the right decision when he decided to decrease party funding, it was a better idea than introducing a new tax, it was either taking more money away from the citizens or taking it from the poloticians. the people are getitng taxed enough as it is, and all of a sudden the other parties get angry that they lose a couple dollars from their pay. suck it up and try sacrificing something for the PEOPLE instead of trying to get harper out of power. if the wrong decision is made then the economy is going to sink, yeah its not done doing that yet...

John E
said

Shame..... the Conservatives are already trying to spin that the GG is not enlightened enough to make a decision therefore if defeat we should go to an election. Talk about an underhand attempt at a coup against the GG..........Shame on you spinners

Jeff from Dartmouth, NS
said

Now, what is the point of all this? In a time of Global Economic struggle, our government, namely, the Liberals and NDP want to try and shake up our government? All this is going to do is end up costing us MORE money. The popultion of canada voted AGAINST Dion, and now he is trying to find another, ruthless way to take power. In the end, it will cause yet another election, which will take even more money out of our economy, and just add further to our finanial difficulties.

What do I propose? Enough of the 'coalition' nonsence. You lost the election, and the people of Canada put the party into place that they wanted. I didn't even vote for the PC, however I respect that they won, and support their government.

And now they want to take to the air, and speak their minds to national audience? Well, this is just rediculous. WEhy do they have to talk to us? It isn't like we can respond to the TV, and tell it what we think. Harper will tell us what he belives and thinks, Dion will tell us what he thinks and believes, and maybe even Layton as well.

And about that. Why should layton get air time? Dion is the leader of the supposid coalition. Layton agreed to join it, and has also agreed to take on a small roll in it, giving the Liberals and Dion command. He may say that the coalition is not formed yet, but all this talk will be about the coalition, so let the two people who are going to butt heads talk it out with us, who cannot respond to the tv.

I had a lot more to say, but I guess I have to keep this to 300 words or less.

Gerry in Markham
said

We can't get Harper and the Conservatives out of power soon enough!

How can he accuse the opposition parties of not working with him when he showed such disdain for them and the people of Canada with his recent fiancial update.

Rebecca in Ottawa
said

For people who say the idea of removing taxpayer money from parties is a good idea:

You forget your history. Until recently, those with a lot of money (corps, CEOs, unions, etc.) could control a party through control of donations. The solution was to limit donantions to $1000 form any person or business.

But that is not enough for parties to meet their needs, so we added a contribution that was based on the popularity of the party. The party getting the most votes would get the biggest subsidy. Sounds totally fair to me, and I can't fathom wanting to go back to the old system.

Harper wants to because more Conservative voters can afford to give $1000 than can voters for, say, the Green Party. It would cripple all other parties and reduce us to a one-party state like most tyrannical regimes around the world, whether socialist, fascist, or based on some weird leader cult.

For those who thin coalitions are anti-democratic (though they are the norm in a great many democracies), think how democratic we would be with just one party.

Drew in NS
said

18 Month Coalilition or another election.

It the people who decides, Lets go now.

Layton, Dion, Ducey "Its the democracy, Stupid"

Art in Mb
said

I'm sure that 60% of Canadians DON'T support a coalition of any kind.If so lets vote.

carl from Alberta
said

I am having a big problem with this whole parliment joke; for this is what it is becoming. First off you have a prime minister that was voted in whether you like him or not, we canadians voted him in. You then have 3 leaders of the opposing parties that did not win. The coalition says they need to act now to save Canada. They are upset that Harper has not given a stimulation package . For this I THANK YOU Mr. Harper. If they spend the money as this coalition wants too, my question is of this matter; Is this blind spending and handing out large credit accounts to all these big businesses;ie the big 3 auto companies, wihout any guarantees what really got the world in trouble to start with? Please Mr. Dion think about how safe the money is theat your lending before you lend it. Stand with the Prime Minister through good or bad. Its just a marriage of sorts.

John E
said

After all this spinning that will take place at 7:00pm, Mr. harper will have enough wool to knit a wardrobe of sweaters for the next election.

VickiTee, Alberta
said

What I am resenting about this political rhetoric coming from the coalition, is saying "Canadians are in fear of their jobs." NO. Get this straight, the hard-working people of the West are not in fear of losing their jobs because we put out products people want. Do not lump the rest of us in with the auto/union workers.

Easily solved: hold another election and put the coalition on one ballot. See how many votes they get then....

Sean in Ontario
said

Follow the money.

Only the opposition parties knew this was coming. They knew it would destabalize our economy and it has.

For yet another day the world's markets gained and ours lost. Follow the money.

They are self-serving "elitists" who care nothing for the rest of us. The use of Liberal Lies continues.

NEVER again.

David - Cavan
said

So if the Conservatives can rule with a Minority why do the Liberals and NDP need the Bloc to run the goverment? OH ya I forgot they don't have enough Votes they need the Bloc. I guess when you want power and your name in the History Books you would pay any price. This will set us back years and there will be no end of blackmail from the Bloc because when you have two washed up leaders that are guaranteed their pension they cannot lose.

Shawn in Ottawa
said

wow...i just watched a Liberal MP on Mike Duffy Live ask why Stephen Harper has created a constitutional crisis???....does anyone here speak Liberal who could shed some light?

Janice Hillman in Winnipeg
said

I think it is disgusting that people can even contemplate that a take over by the coalition would be fair! Where is our right to vote? I personally wouldn't want that taken away from me. I don't believe you can use the percentages of the three separate parties being put together to reflect that they rule the majority of canadians - they each had seperate views on being elected. To bunch them together now does not reflect how Canadians would feel as them as "one" party. I say put it to the vote of Canadians to keep it democratic (rather than communist) and have the new party give their "one" view on how they will help Canada as a whole and not separate us! To me they are acting like little children having a tantrum over not getting in power - they haven't given the conservative party a chance to show what they are going to do to help this country. Shame on them and on anyone who thinks the coalition is in the right.

You get to vote for riding's Member of Parliament.
said

You don't get to decide how the elected Members of Parliament arrange themselves to form governments.

There is no "seizure" of power involved.

Get a book about Canada's constitutional system . . . and READ IT.

Jodith
said

Let's have a another election and show these stooges that we don't want them to run the country. They are like little spoiled boys that didn't get their way and now want to come through the side/back doors and force themselves on the rest of Canada.
I for one hope the GG sends us back to the poles and lets see what happens to these stooges then....if they get in so be it, but it will the by the people not by a few individuals who forgot to grow up and act in the best of our country.

Peter
said

Hey Bob Rae say's we are all astro turf, man is he in touch with the average Canadian. He doesn't get it, we don't him, Dion, the NDP and the Bloc!!!! We need an election so they get it loud and clear.

louise brien
said

Harper's angry, vindictive, mean-spirited attacks on everyone who doesn't agree with him (even those in his own party) reveal the true nature of the man who refuses to work with anyone else. He is desperate to save his political hide and is sacrificing the national interest while he's doing it.
It's pathetic...does he not understand that his loss of trust will greatly affect Canada on a international level as well?
His dictatorial style is not conducive to leading a minority government....and at this crucial point in time he should step aside.

Phoebe Rogers
said

The world is upside down. We are starting to seriously dislike Dion and we always seriously dislked Layton. Still, I was glad that him and Olivia were going to Ottawa - good opposition is good but he has gone to far. Dion has irrevocable tarnished his image. I am from the east but has lived meagerly in Ontario for many years. Since when, pray tell, did Cape Breton contribute to the canadian economy? Experts from all over the world tell us that Canada has Tripl A rating- the best possible.
What is this wonderful plan that a coalition has? They have to consult avec les vieux de la vieille to establish a plan for the future. It baffles the brain.

lulu
said

The GG should refuse to prorogue and Harper should step down.

It obvious the people of Canada don't trust him as he can never get more than a minority.

He's tarnishing the image of the conservatives and playing politics as though he were a republican using patriotism, socialism, undemocratic as key words to help scare people into helping him stay in power. What's next? Freedom Poutine?

Its time the conservatives realized that they will never get anywhere with Harper at the helm.

Resign Harper. Its the what a bigger man would do.

Dave Corfield
said

Its nothing but a coup...I don't like Harper and I sure don't like this even more...THE BLOC come on!!! That governor better not allow the coalition go through people will storm the Parliament mark my words. Trudeau Jr. better give his head a shake.

E.Sime
said

I`m outraged that our life in this great nation is being jeopardized by the likes of these individuals at a time when the world is in a financial crisis.Canadians made their choice at the polls,we pray that the coalition will never
govern this wonderful country.None are up to the task.

Cathy Shannon
said

GG we the democratic people of Canada want an election.
Stephane Dion did not get the support of the voting public, and apparently his party agrees as they head into another leadership convention to choose a new leader, but let's make him the leader of the new coalition government, both the Liberals and the NDP have sold their souls to a party that for years has tried to seperate us as Canadians, what a great idea let's create an even bigger problem in Canada at what price. The coalition governments idea let's just throw billions out there without a game plan to stimulate the economy after all why think about it let's just join together as the unholy alliance because we don't like the toys in the sand box create a big deficit and call it a stimulus package, let's not wait for a budget that is unacceptable to decide we have no confidence in the government, let's ask for a life preserver from the seperartist party just what every canadian voted for.As a Canadian i want my vote to be heard. i hope the GG will now call an election so that we can again vote, and give the mandate necessary to kick the unholy alliance and seperatists out on their rear ends, what are they afraid of losing what little support they have left.

Bernard & Magda Miron Penticton B.C.
said

I am truly concerned about Larry , MOE , CURRLY attempting to over throw our duly elected government . First they seem to not realize that the people have spoken and did not have the confidence in either the NDP OR LIBERALS let alone the Bloc . Democracy has spoken period, so to align them selves with the Bloc thats madness , they the Bloc do not want to be part of Canada and want to brake us up as a country . are they that Stupid or are they just wanting the power ? I fear its a little of both ( mostly stupid ). Both my wife and i feel it is Treason by acting the way they (treason defind in my dictionary is quote a violation of allgiance to ones country, esp by acting to overthrow the government .) How much more simple can it get ?. I feel that we will become the laughing stock of the world if we allow this to happen , so think hard Larry , Moe ,Currly as you will regret it in the long run .

Rob Schmidt
said

Wake up!!

Prime Minister Harper, Jack Layton, Stephane Dion, and Gilles Duceppe

This power struggle of yours is bad for the country. I did not vote for a coalition and I did not vote for political uncertainty during difficult times. As far as I am concerned all four of you should RESIGN AND HANG YOUR HEADS IN SHAME for your poor behaviour!!! It time to get back to running the country.

Jason, BC
said

Any governing entity, be it a coalition or a political party, must be elected based on a clearly proposed platform.

Bernie Haddad
said

All Members of the Parliament must have :
1- A psychological assessment.
2- a full term of study of political sciences.
and because of the above, all of them should be thrown out of the Parliament which represents the people of Canada and not a bunch of idiots, egoists and selfish individuals who does not think except about their personal interests and mooooneyyyyy!?

Rex
said

If Harper is so concerned about Canada and its people;he should not delay his departure. Give up the Prime Ministership to the Coalition; who we are certain will do a much much better job and will be in agreement in all they do as they will put the good of the Country and its people first than themselves. Conservatives step aside. You had 2 chances but did no good for the people or for Canada. The Coalition will definitely do a better job.

David Crittin
said

Stephen Harper should be removed from office,he can just not stop lying and can not work with other people in a mature fashion.

TMac
said

Parliamentary democracy is a wonderful thing. Sad part is the coalition includes the Bloc who want to destroy our country...only in Canada you say.

said

A purely non-partisan question (seriously):
How is BQ support of a Liberal/NDP coalition any more dangerous than BQ support of a Tory minority? The BQ has supported numerous Tory bills in the house in recent years and Harper has accepted these votes.

Garry Card
said

How can a party with representation to only one province hold the balance of power to running this country?. I don't understand why this country allows the politicians to do what they want after they are elected to government. Are they not accountable to their consituence?

At one time people were proud to be Canadian and came to this country for that sole reason. Now we are know as not having any values or pride in our country. Lets get back to reality.

The separatist Bloc should not even be in the house of Commons. They are a provincal party and they make no mistake about the fact that they want to separate from the rest of Canada.

Stephane Dion lost the election and his party is looking for new leadership. How can we allow him to become Prime Minister when his party doesn't even want him as a leader of the Liberals?

There is more to Canada than the province of Quebec. They continue to take and give nothing back to Canada except to threaten us with separation.

macc - Ottawa
said

Take a breath everyone...
Take away your feelings about Harper, Dion, Layton and Duceppe and look at the facts - the economic statement was a statement not binding policy and cause for the Government to fall.
Harper govt plans a budget around 27Jan - that is what should be voted on not the statement !
Coalition plans a budget - guess what - around the same time ! - maybe ....
Harper won the election - Coalition did NOT

Harper won the right to lead - Coalition did NOT
85% of Canada did NOT vote for the BQ yet they are getting 100% control as they hold the balance of support of either the Government or the Coalition...
The Coalition will NOT do anything over the next month so why bring the Government down ?
This is a power grab because Mr. Dion and Mr. Layton are frustrated at not winning the leadership of this country - they opposition are to keep the government in check not destroy it
Canada is not falling apart - people ARE NOT loosing their jobs on mass - the banks are not failing, the sky is not falling - for goodness sake - for sanity, and the state of our country - everyone take a step back !

F. Burke
said

The Canadian Coalition, supported by the Bloc, received 65% of the votes cast in the 2008 election. Members represent every province in Canada.They are the Majority in Parliament. Any attempt to prorogue the House is clearly a ploy to avoid a legitimate a vote of non-confidence in the government.The Governor-General would be fully justified in denying proroguation, and in recognizing the Coalition as a viable alternative ready to serve Canada.

Malcolm John
said

Shortly after the election Jack L. cozies up to the Bloc with this idea that at first opportunity they could from a coalition if they could convince the Liberal party in total disarry to join in. The NDP with 25% representation in the cabinet-the only time this would ever happen. The Bloc with a big club! Political opportunism at it's best. For the good of the country-not likely. If the opposition parties were really concerned about the country they would have worked with the Harper govt and hatched out a program that was best for the country at this critical time. Shame on you low life politicians. You have insulted your country and it's people to the core. Next election you will pay the price....

Chris
said

I am not surprised the war on Harper has happened, i don't feel the Liberals Bloc ,or NDP ever wanted the gov't to work. If you have been watching question period since the Harper gov't started you'd see a power struggle from the beginning. Layton wants his hour to shine, Dion his, and block leader, always there own agenda. Sorry to say but i stand behind the Harper gov't, if it falls we might as well all separate. As a Canadian born here this is the first time in my life i saw a gov't that saw us in the west waving our hand saying over here. I'm afraid if this gov't falls we may never be seen again back to the old Liberal way.
AS far as budget Harper didn't do this to Canada it started in the states and yes it will take time to get the economy back on track everyone knows this. When the states recover so will we not before, so reckless spending only puts us more in debit. Yes some sectors will need help but the coalition will only kill more jobs than create. From Chris.

AMG - BC
said

Take another look at this post:
Edmonton John
"Too many people are just becoming mules for propaganda.
They pack misinformation from one speaker to another medium as if by shear repetition their dissembling exaggerations will become accepted as truth.
As Harper begins his desperate media campaign we will be inundated with falsehoods and misinformation engineered by media professionals to evoke specific reactions.
What we will be reading on the blogs is sadly not a discussion that moves the dialogue ahead, but one that dissolves into partisan arguments about Harper's lies.
For instance his biggest 'lie' is branding the coalition through association with the Bloc. I will not dignify the term he uses by repetition, but you hear it every time he refers to the Coalition. This message is misleading, hypocritical and divisive.
By repeating it on the blogs, Conservative supporters may convince a few people, but they will get no closer to the truth, and consequently we will get no closer to a better future for Canada".

I've been on the internet since the early 90's, before the the majority of people even knew it existed, I have an ICQ number that is 6 digits.
The interference by government and namely CPC 'professional' bloggers on these boards goes against everything that the internet was designed and intended for.. free speech and a flow of information that eventually leads to the truth. Be very afraid when those in power can inundate this one remaining bastion of freedom with their lies.

Brian Crump
said

How can these three parties(Libs, Ndp and Bloc) ever be able to defend their party philosophys or principles again? Oh yeh, the Bloc can. And how can these three stand on three platforms with two legs. This coalition intends to take away our right to vote. Yes they apparently have the can do that but how many people have fought to defending that right?

Rick
said

I understand the recent election cost tax payers 300 million dollars to decide which party would lead this country.
I did not vote Conservative, but I respect the opinion of the PEOPLE. The current government has only started
to address the concerns of the Canadian people and the recession. They haven't even had time to evaluate the
effectiveness of their plan.
Limiting the right to strike and curbing government spending during a recession seems reasonable. I certainly
hope this move provides instant relief as this will be watch not only by Canadians, but the World.
I see this as an opportunistic grab for power that could not come at a worse time.
If your coalition government does not provide immediate economic relief, I hope the public removes you quickly. I also believe that if there are not instant, tangible results this move will hurt the Liberals and NDP in future elections. How could Mr. Dion even be considered to lead this new government when the Liberal Party themselves have lost confidence in his ability to lead. When asked if the leaders of the coalition can work together considering their difference of opinion, they have stated that they have to work together for the good of the Canadaian people. Why aren't they doing that same thing now with the Conservatives? Just looking and listening to Dion you realize this man does not have a clue as to how to run a country. He can't give you answers or time-lines. What are they thinking in working together with separatists while claiming to bring the country together! The statemment that the Coalition government will bring Canada into the black within four years. Four years! That is not a plan. It is an embarassment.

Maurice in Edmonton
said

During the last campaign PM Harper told us all there was no deficit, that he had a plan, and that he would work with the opposition and other promises. On the first occasion that he had he took the opportunity to make a joke of all the promises and even went further and pushed at three "hot button" issues that he had to know would stir the opposition. The difference this time, and he had been warned that this would happen, was that the Liberals finally stood on their principles and said a resounding No.

Under our constitution a coalition is legal although the "regressive" conservatives would like us to believe otherwise and one such coalition has been formed with two parties signing as members and one party, the Separatists, signing on that they would support all "confidence votes" that may arise for the next 18 months. They would be free to vote with the opposition on other than confidence votes. What I have read indicates there is no Veto either agreed to or implied. Another regressive conservative stretching of the truth.

I would support a coalition government but my preference would be the present government under a new leader and Finance Minister (remember him and Ontario a few years back with a 5 Billion dollars deficit). PM Harper has blown any credibility that may had had and Minister Flaherty has shown himself to be overmatched once again.

Tony form Barrie Ontario
said

As a proud Canadian it saddens me to see what is
happening Ottawa.Harper did make a mistake,but I do not agree with the coalition response.I cannot accept that a separatist party holds the balance of power in this coalition, where is Western Canada's representation in this coalition? This move by the Liberal's, N.D.P. and the Block will just create more division in our country, the only winner's will be Quebec's seperatist party the Block.

Shocked and underawed
said

Three attack dogs circling, and one defending. It's all about power. Not about what's best for Canadians. Is spending millions on an election, then arranging to overthrow that election because a statement, not a budget, doesn't include bailout packages? January 27 is not that far off. It's a travesty of democracy.

Aline from Holland Landing
said

The Prime Minister seems intent on refocusing Canadians' attention from the economy to one of national unity. Why is that? What a change of attitude from the comments (or platitudes) he made in Peru two weeks ago. He unfortunately showed his true colors in the last economic update. Coalition - not my first choice. But another election, forget about it. Prorogation - sounds like kids who get angry, pick up their toys and go home to sulk. If the PM thinks that this last strategy (prorogation) will change my mind, he is sadly mistaken. As for the perceived threat of a separatist takeover, it seems to me that the PM wasn't too worried about that when he wanted and needed Bloc support during the last Parlement and during his reign as Opposition leader trying to bring down the Martin government. In spite of the PM's affirmation, and those of several commentators, coalitions are neither undemocratic or illegal. The procedures are part and parcel of constitutional law of this country. We may not like the rules, but they are there; therefore, we do not have to vote for it. Lastly, I wonder if Mr. Harper would be reacting the same way if St�phane Dion was not the leader of the Liberal party. The bully that he is is still trying to wield his big stick to scare others. What if he were dealing instead with Ignatieff, Rae, or even better Danny Williams. It's time for this government to refocus its priorities - creating false political crises and raising the ghost of national unity is not going to reassure the markets, the banks and will not guarantee Canadians their jobs. What a waste of time, money and effort.

Eleanor
said

My husband and I are seniors and have been watching daily what has been taking place. We are not happy with this coalition and do not want Stephan Dion as prime minister,even if it is only for a short time. He is not who I voted for. At a time when we needed our polititions to work together and put some stability in our country and economy we watch our politions fighting and shouting insults across the house in anger and hostility. What has this country come to. For the first time in our lives we are embarassed to be Canadians.

Joanne from Winnipeg
said

We do not have a U.S. style democracy in this country; we have a parliamentary democracy. The Canadian people - in great wisdom, evidently - granted the Conservatives a minority government in October. They did not "vote for Mr. Harper." The essence of a minority government is a collaborative approach, which Mr. Harper scorns. If he had the interest of Canada in mind, he would resign in favour of another Conservative MP as leader, table a budget, and disarm the coalition. That he does not do so speaks volumes. The Coalition represents a no doubt risky, but nevertheless legitimate, proposal to address our economic problems. This is how Parliament is SUPPOSED to work in a minority government and should not be portrayed as a "crisis" or worse yet a "coup". Mr. Harper, by thumbing his nose at both Parliament and ordinary Canadians, and by refusing to share his government's economic plan, has forfeited the right to lead.

Fred, Nova Scotia
said

Just wondering what the point of voting is? We are told that our vote can make a difference, apparently the vote only makes a difference for a month or so. I specifically voted for Harper so Dion would not be in power, if he get's in were all done for.
Does everyone remember when Harper addressed the country about the enviroment and he said that to keep the country with enviromental standards we would most likely go into defecit, and yet still everyone agreed and thought it was a good idea. So here we are on the brink of a defecit and everyone is backing out on Harper???
No one must remember what it was like with liberals in power, cheating us out of our money to buy watches??? so many lies, deceit, betrayal to the people of their own country. for god sakes people dont let liberals in!!!! IMO- Harper is doing great.

Cheryl from Montreal
said

Have you seen Jacques Parizeau gloating? Stephane Dion should be ashamed of himself.

All parties should roll up their sleeves and get back to work on the economy and stop these hare-brained schemes.

Diane from London
said

A coalition put together just because of personal hatred of ideaology is doomed to fail.

The opposition didn't like the fact that they would be losing money. This part of the economic statement removed. That should have been sufficient to keep things going but they are still going ahead without giving the PM a chance to present a budget.

After watching performances in the House of Common I think this three are just ganging up on the Prime Minister because they don't like him. They themselves have nothing in common and it will all fall apart as it is based on hate not on cooperation.

It will only be a matter of time.

Shaun
said

Liberal Leader Stephane Dion, NDP Leader Jack Layton and any other party leaders
should be put in jail for trying to bring down the Government.
This is an internal terrorist attack by our own political parties, which needs to be stopped.
I voted for the Conservatives not a coalition government.
The truth is out

richard su
said

Yes Coalition! Unfortunately, this parliamentary debate (Sorry, I hate to use the word "crisis", what crisis?) is no longer just about a financial budget disagreement between the Conservatives and the oppositions. It is more a matter of recognition and respect of the Canadian political system�we vote for the Members of Parliament and not the Prime Minister. The Conservatives has not been able to realize that Mr. Harper�s government is not a majority government. It is very important to work with other political parties
and not to tyrannize them since the current government is a MINORITY. Just because his party won the most seats and it doesn't mean he is the boss in the house!

Lainie
said

This has to do with the government cutting SUBSIDIES to the parties..nothing more.
As a young voter I am disgusted!!!

Michael Cota
said

I wish we could return to the pre Harper days when there was respect for your opposition and the political process. Under Harper, he sees opponents as something that must not only be defeated but utterly destroyed so that they may never oppose again. He has poisoned political life and has made politics in Canada a bitter and divisive matter, similar to what Bush and the Republican party does in the USA.
I hope, for the sake of Canada, that the Conservatives select a new leader, one who works for and with all Canadians. Finally, our Parliament must be surpeme and if the majority of elected MPs want to change the government then these elected MPs should be allowed to do so. That is our democracy. I voted for an MP and it is up to my MP to do whatever it takes to make Parliament work.

Derrick
said

If this coalition can exist it must be changed!If the parties can't agree,then bring down the government so the people of Canada can deside, not the MPs.(Remember for the people by the people)
I can't bear the thought of being ruled by the three stooges!!!

Chris
said

My concern is what is going to happen to our country if this coalition happens. The party is about separtism not unity.
Doesn't this concern anyone?
I just pray that the GG gives this some serious thought before making her decision.
This coalition could seriously divide our country.

Chris
Belle River, Onatrio

DS from Oshawa
said

To my mind, this is all about democracy - Canadians deciding our own fate. Plain and simple. It is not about Harper's economic policies or whether they are good or bad for Canada at this time.

More specifically:

(1) If the PCs' economic policies are bad, then we Canadians give them the heave-ho. But we Canadians must get to do it. That's called an election.

(2) The opposition parties say Harper's government has to go - what is at stake is too important to let the PCs continue to govern. If it is that important, it is worth the inconvenience and cost of another election. If holding another election at this time is too inconvenient and too costly, then the issue cannot be all that important.

(3) No one talked about a possible coalition during the election. Canadians were presented with the choice between PC, Liberal, NDP, Green or (in some ridings at least) independents. We voted on those choices. If two or more parties want to put forward a coalition option, then they should put it forward to Canadians and we'll decide if we want it.

(4) Stefan Dion does not have the confidence of his own party (which, even under the proposed coalition, is still going ahead with a leadership convention in 2009 to replace him). In the last election, a large majority of Canadians did not want him as Prime Minister (and according to very recent polls, they still don't want him as Prime Minister). So it would be an affront to the Canadian electorate to make him Prime Minister now. I seem to recall that Jack Layton scored better in the pre-election polls in terms of choice for Prime Minister - why not make him Prime Minister under the coalition?

(5) The Liberal party will choose a new party leader in 2009. That is their right, and Canadians (those outside of the party membership) should not have a say in that choice. But by the same token, Canadians should have a say in the choice of Canada's leader the Prime Minister - not just the Liberal party membership.

(6) Holding another election is a viable option - especially if what's at stake is so important. We could have it in early January. That would give all parties the time they need to convince us they are right. And if having a coalition is still on the table at that time, then Canadians will have an opportunity to decide if we want that.

Tammy Benard
said

Get back to the agenda of the country and work together to come up with a fix. Not the time to be divided on issues. I want to buy some American money for our trip to Hawaii over Christmas which my daughter 13 year old was granted through the Childrens wish foundation after fighting a year long battle with cancer. Unfortunately all this government coalition garbage is helping in the drop of the cdn. dollar and quite frankley the better the dollar the more money we are going to have for our trip that my daughter so dearly deserves to have the best possible trip after this past year of fighting for her life. What could be more important than this. Have these people in the government not had any tragedy in their life like a sick child. Maybe if they did they would know what is important to most people in a time of crisis like this country is in. You do what you got to do to make things better if you can. And we are letting any of them run this country? Thank goodness they are not operating Sick Kids hospital what kind of hope would be there. Thank you just trying to get a better bang for my buck. But that ain't happening with the current situation in the government.

Steve
said

Dion was down and on his way out and Harper could not resist on more kick. Its disgusting and sooner or later people will realize he is the one they should be mad at.

Now the bully is planning to run and hide. I think Harper should quit with dignity and if the coalition is such a bad idea it will collapse and a new Conservative leader can win a majority in the next election!!.
The fact is the one thing Harper said in the election that is true is that the Conservatives do not get in power often and the reason is when they do they create such a mess we do not want them back for years.

Janet in Niagara - still a Westerner at heart
said

I find it frightening how little Canadians seem to understand about our system of government and also how little we seem to know about what has been going on in the past few years. In order to win votes, the current Conservative government has frittered away a surplus which was built to give Canada an edge in tough economic times. Uh-Oh! Those times have now arrived and we have no plan nor any reserves to fund one anyway. Hmmm -distraction needed - let's not bother playing nice in Parliament as we promised during the election campaign. Let's see just how much damage we can do to the opposition parties and hopefully they won't notice that there's no plan for a serious economic situation. A situation, by the way, whose timing we misjudged by a couple of months or we'd have had the election sooner. Start doing some serious reading of information that comes from many sources folks - not just those who agree with what you already think! I agree with the person who asked that the media INFORM and EDUCATE
us above and beyond rehashing the latest polls.

Charles Sampson
said

Stephen Harper caused this crisis as he is manipulating this political process into giving him a third attempt at deceiving the electorate into returning him with a majority. Harper is unwilling to accept the second limited mandate of a minority government. Stephen Harper must resign as he is the undemocratic factor in this mess. The Governor General must not allow Harper to shut down Parliament simply to avoid a defeat on a vote of confidence because he doesn't have the confidence of the House of Commons.

c.t.v.
said

the view from London

The media needs to stop dwelling and focusing on irrelevant data, for one, that 62% of Canadians did not vote for the PC party. Even with majorities, have previous governments ever had over 50% of the popular vote? I can't recall the last time when that happened and I know it has never happened with four major parties.

What is more on point and really more relevant is that only 42.4% voted for the coalition partners, who by their own definition includes only the liberals and the NDP. That percentage is less than the majority of Canadians and more important the seats needed to form a true workable majority coalition.

Let's face facts, the bloc vote only support motions, no matter which party(s) are in power, which benefit Quebec interests, end of story, so to milk this coalition for their own gain and at the cost of the rest of Canada. This would become a blight on Canada's future and history if it happens.

It is only an opinion but it seems this is little more than a last ditch power grab by Mr. Dion to become the PM before he is forced out as leader of the liberals. Mr. Dion truly feels in his mind he's owed and entitled the title of PM.

The media must try to be less partisan by spreading distorted data without vetting such data and offering opinion and analysis from all sides. Try becoming less like CNN or worse faux news, by putting integrity above the lust for ratings.

Rick Borgen Drayton Valley Ab
said

Prime Minister Harper, feeling bullet proof after the recent election, messed up with his threat to pull Federal handouts to all parties. The so called coalition, is making Canada the laughing stock of the world right now. Have all the parties lost sight of the global economic crisis?
Now is the time all the parties, and indeed all Canadians need to pull together as one, and work as one Nation, to weather the upcoming economic storm on the horizon. Instead I fear that this coalition move will only divide the country further apart, making Canada more vulnerable to a deeper reccesion. There was no coalition on my ballot during the last election, all the parties need to drop this nonsense, and start designing a plan for Canada's near future. Shame on all of our political parties. Their promises to look out for Canada's best interests? Nothing but lies!

chris..nelson,b.c
said

No Taxation ..without Representation!!history is again repeating itself...let the revolt begin!!

Shawn Rodgers
said

I am a Canadian who wishes to see Canada stay together. I don't know how the Coalition Government is going to keep our Country together. I think if the Coalition takes control of the House it will rekindle the Western Canadian Separatist movement.

george
said

This coalition gang of thugs and bullies must never be allowed to further their traitorist agenda on the Canadian people. In the last election the honorable Conservative Party was duly elected to govern Canada. Back off Coalition and let the PM do his job.

Hugh Freeman
said

What a mess! All of the parties will lose stature over this. Can we expect them to now listen to the populace? Not likely! Hopefully a somewhat removed figure - the GG - will do the only sane thing and sent them all home. Then we can expect similiar behaviour that will result in a non-confidence motion and the people then being called to another election. Does anyone want an election? Not likely, but it's a lot better than having the country run by people who don't respect the last election results and who would seek to subvert the public will - making goodness only knows what side deals with each other as they slice up the national pie!

D Crittin
said

Stephen Harper should be removed from office. He is a one man band and can not work with other people. The conserative party could be allowed to stay in power if they can find a leader who is mentally stable and can speak truthfully.

Joanne Myers, Ottawa, ON
said

I do not want to be governed by a coalition party that is one third Bloc - Bloc, a separatist party whose sole agenda is sovereignty for Quebec. I live in Ontario and did not have the choice of a Bloc candidate on my ballot, why should I have one forced down my throat now?
And, what is the pay off to the Bloc? What has the Bloc been promised for this support? The thought of what it may be is frightening.
This coalition with the Bloc is appalling and disgusting.

Lois Martin
said

Harper did NOT cause this - he was doing what we elected him to do & one of those "jobs' was to make cuts in areas of wasteful spending of our tax dollars rather than raise taxes. No party should be taxpayer subsidized & this would save 30 million a year that would be better spent elsewhere. Parties did their own fund raising for 100+ years until the Liberals decided that WE should foot the bill. NO we should not & if they think we're unhappy at Harper for having the guts to target wasteful spending ... they'll find out how wrong they are after the next election. Some people seem to forget that by cutting this publicly funded program - the conservatives themselves would lose the most. Start by trimming the fat at the top & an overwhelming majority of Canadians are in agreement of that.

Fred
said

All 3 of these troglodytes should be charged with treason.
I VOTED for Harper and though he goofed a few times;Canadians chose him.If this coalition is(?) approved,I think both the Liberals and the NDP will be wiped right off the map in the next election; just like Campbell was in the 80s.

Ross McLean
said

I am confidant that the Governor General can sort this out. She is above the whole mess. She has nothing to gain personally from any of this, and I believe that she takes her duty to ensure the good of Canada very seriously, and will consider only, so far as she possibly can, what is best for the country. When she does decide on what must be done, she will face a barrage of criticism from those who disagree. To the politicians (and supporters)who will want to keep the fight going, I say, "Forget it. Take your directions maturely and graciously. You couldn't decide among yourselves how to govern, someone had to tell you, so get on with it"

George, Ottawa
said

Coalition? This is a coalition of three power hungry individuals with a few followers of the same kind and some cheering misslead spectators. Man devoted to break-up the country, socialist and failed party leader will govern the country? Many dictatorships in the history started with the similar humble beginnings.

Robert G
said

Well M. Harper, guess what, you have a minority Government. That means you ARE NOT absolutely in charge. WE the people think you should leave, and that is a good thing. WE the people also think that Dion should leave, and he will, and that is a good thing. What is to heppen to Canada? In the current frame work of the economy, environment and health care, we are in serious trouble. Perhaps the only answer is to pass control to the provincial goverments. At least they can act and save our ass.

Pat Dewhurst
said

I am not watching Harper lie to Canadians again, and play politics. He has wasted 300 million dollars in an election which contradicted his own schedule for elections. He lies about his plans, we have no plans, and his priorities are to destroy womens' equal pay for equal work, and his priorities are racist against minorities. Who wants to listen to more lies? I want the opposition to form a government that works for all the people of Canada especially the majority which is the middle class, not the party for the rich. I welcome and stand by all the opposition parties to form a government now, not in a month. We have waited long enough for action and we need it now. The USA, Japan and most all European countries are stimulating their economy now, not later. Governor General -Canadians do not have confidence in the PM, and Parliament doesn't either, give the opposition the legal and parliamentary right to form a coalition government now.

Joe
said

Harper is the biggest liar I have ever seen.He does not care about the Country or the people who are suffering because of the economy.He has his own agenda,and we are not part of it .He is only concerned about the oil in Alberta

Morton Grant
said

It seems that the fact that the majority of voters in Canada did not vote for the Conservative Party is being ignored!

Maureen
said

I am so angry at the audacity of the coalition leaders stating that there is no confidence in the Harper government. That is BU****it. The people of Canada have confidence- we voted for them!!!! Not for these opportunists who are trying to grab power. The Liberals will NEVER again get a single seat in the West if they go ahead with this.

Tyson - AB
said

To All Who Whine About Democracy!!

Taking taxpayers money away from political parties was the biggest attack on democracy in years.If your only source of funds is from Big Bussiness(I dont want hear, that donations can come from other places, because there insignificant), who do you think your gonna represent the people, or the corporations you tell me?

Obama wouldnt be president if It wasnt for Big Bussiness, I dont want to follow in ways of fascist america.

We need to drop the Reagan Rhetoric of "It still morning" Coalition is about teamwork and sustainablity

And for you who think Harper has a majority for sure in another election remember he just lost every riding in Quebec he holds, refering to them as Devils

al_mcw55
said

i moved to alberta to escape the liberals runing the country into the ground ,ibarely survived the rae years,why would any sane person want these people in charge of our economy,they arenot qualified orelected.

Eve
said

WE had an election and voted in a government and a Prime Minister, we did not vote for a coalition government or a government that will be controlled by a party that wants to separate Canada. We need to seriously consider what is going on here. We had better stop acting like some of the third world Countries. We do not need a bunch of disgruntled parlamentarions throwing their weight around.

L. Welsh
said

Laura from London

I am proud to be a Canadian, but partisan politics now come before the needs of our great nation. We are on the verge of an economic recession, and Mr. Dion, Mr. Layton, and Mr. Duceppe believe that it is in the best interest of Canadians to bring down the government? Tell me, when did �the interests of Canadians� actually boil down to the interests of only three of them?
It does not matter which party each of us voted for on election day, at the end of the day Steven Harper was voted into a second term. We did not vote in Stephan Dion, but right now the Federal government�s actions say that what we decide does not matter.
I am a Canadian, and I do not want to see our greatness and resilience slowly fade at the expense of a few people�s selfishness. Unless there is just reason, the decision of the majority must be final.

Otto. Surrey BC.
said

Only election is the answer.With no wait till January.
Maybe this time Steve Harper will get 100%
I do not know how Dion was pick for Liberal leader? Or bob Ray?

Helen Olson, Prince Albert
said

I am extremely displeased with the way the Conservatives tried so hard to mislead Canadians in Question Period by continually referring to the proposed coalition as the "separatist coalition" emphasizing the word "separatist" as a obscene word. This will only serve to divide Canadians. Also bringing up Parizeau continuously was a red herring designed to worry Canadians less knowledgeable about what this coalition actually agreed to between themselves. In fact, I think the Conservatives are engaging in very dirty politics - they have got to go.

A Canadian View
said

Re: Harper taking to airwaves in bid to save government

Getting past the firestorm of insults and name calling, it appears what initiated this proposed coalition of opposition parties is the Conservative governments plan to rescind government subsidies to the political parties. The Lib�s and ND�s outrage are matched by my outrage over their addiction to taxpayer funded welfare.

Putting that aside though, let�s look at the coalition agreements. The documents outlining the basic agreement by the 3 opposition parties do not match up. The Bloc�s edition is not signed or posted in our two official languages; so much for equality in Quebec. The Bloc version seems to lay out a very long list of expenditures with no price tag nor a commitment to cooperate with the two other parties. Mssrs Layton and Dion have not made a case for an alternative arrangement but that won�t let that stop them from making a pure grab for power. Let�s hope our Governor General has the smarts to spot the flaws. The arrangements do not make a case for a 3 party coalition. Call their bluff, call an election.

L in T.O.
said

Coaltion Platform: I want to be the KING of Canada, I want subjects not voters! Democracy must be for losers!

If this coalition was a valid option it should have happened on election night. but then there would not be a KING of Canada.

I actually considered voting for Ed BroadBent if he had run - I thought he was a man of integrity regardless of party. I am sorely disapoiinted and proud to have voted conservative.

BUSH Politics has arrived in Canada!

John Witham
said

As a lifelong Liberal and staunch supporter of our local Liberal MP, it was strange to find myself writing a letter to him yesterday.

In the letter I strongly urged him to skip the vote on Monday.

Liberal voters cast their ballots for a Liberal government; not an NDP/Bloc government and we should all take the time to remind our Liberal MP's of this simple fact.

Robin Pentney
said

Prime Minister Harper needs his head read for trying to kneecap the opposition partys thru their funding, but that is a minor problem compared to this coalition!
These three are like Larry, Moe and curly Joe! Question period has Stephan yelling like a high school kid till he is hoarse, (a definite plus) and Jack the Knife taking arcane pot shots which get him, and us nowhere. Meanwhile, brother Gilles just smiles. The other 2 are doing his work for him.
Every single soul who sets foot in the House of Commons has a duty to do the business of the Canadian people, not further their own agendas! If they can not contribute something germaine to the business of the country, they desperately need to keep their mouths shut. Canadians are appalled at the performance of elected representatives in the house. High school kids conduct themselves with more decorum than this!
Drop the act and get back to work people!

Brenda
said

I agree with Jeff . I thought I lived in a democratic country but after the events of the last few days I think I have been decieved. I live in a country where it really doesn't matter what the people want if the big guns wnat something different they get it. The opposition hasn't even given Harper and his government the opportunity to govern. We hear alot on the T.V. about not allowing bullying but when that is happening in our Government how in the world are our youth going to learn anything different. they see it is ok for our govenrment to behave this way so why can't they do the same.
I don't think Harper should resign the opposition should be the ones to reign they are the bullies.
Well all I can say is I sure wish the Government would get back to running the country and quit acting like no quit acting worse than spoiled kids
Brenda T

Colleen May
said

Let the coalition work. They will do a lot better job than a party that uses a crisis in the economy to attack labour rights,union rights,woman's rights, democracy itself.The country needs stability and Dion and Layton can give that along with the support of the bloc.Harper cannot get enough votes to run the country. he has lost the confidence of the house. The voters that supported these members in the coalition have lost confidence in the Harper govt a long time ago.These parties were split and now they are united. Thank you Steven Harper and the people who have supported you.

Brian Clancey
said

Harper should face parliament and the risk of losing a confidence vote. The simple fact is Canadians voted for a coalition government and gave him the chance to lead it. His tragic flaw is his unwillingness to conscience disagreement.

Sally L Martin
said

Sally Martin Ontario
I am fed up with the idiots in Government today. I try my damnest to get others to vote or at least take interest. They tell me they're all the same. Get rid of both Harper and Dion. Leaders Ha.
Better yet change the system to the American way of voting. At least they have a choice of who will represent them in their district and who will be the head of the country.
With jobs falling all around us and the economy in the crapper these idiots decide to play games. I'm 58 yrs old and never, ever failed to vote but I ready to give up too.

Cyndy
said

Dear Tough Luck John:
The majority of Canadians DIDN'T vote. It's not "the majority of Canadians didn't vote for Steve. Lowest voter turn out ever.

George Everett, Fall River NS
said

Stephen Harper decided to play politics instead of dealing with the financial crisis, not surprising. The other 3 parties chose to return the dirty, mean spirited ways of
Harper with their own questionable ways. The voters who put this bunch of clowns in place are the losers once again. They all need to be severely chastied and put back to work instead of behaving like a children on the playground.

Yvonne in Sidney, BC
said

The solution to this debacle is to get rid of Mr. Harper, appoint an interim leader and let the Conservative party continue in power. That should satisfy the voters who elected the party, not necessarily the leader, and should satisfy the coalition. Mr Harper needs to step down. Having another election after the very unnecessary one we just had is not an option. And proroguing is just delaying the inevitable.

Dorothy Wilson
said

I am furious ! What gives Dion and his desperate crew the right to decide what Canadians want ? Even his own party didn't want HIM !
Just what does this do to our Armed Forces , our Western provinces , to solidify a always perilous Canadian unity .
My 85 year old brother has the right idea - lets go all the way - say goodbye to Eastern Canada arrogance and their lame duck deperados and form a WESTERN Canada Alliance of the prairie provinces , plus BC .
I have lived in many countries , where this idiocy would not be tolerated - what does it take to get Canadians angry enough to take a stand against neopotism , and an elected Conservative
government is not in this category lke it or not !

jonathan
said

CANADIAN.......EH??
What is going on here? Is this formation of a coalition possible? Is it in the best interests of Canadians? I know we all have our own perceptions but if we could just lay our party preferences aside for a moment and truly think common sense of all this. Get/study all the facts, not listen to propaganda (very noticeable in North American culture), understand truths, not fallible information floating around. Right now we are in a very fragile moment in time, not only on a global scale but here at home. The future of Canada could be left in the hands of a few marionettes being controlled by bureaucrats. Is this really democracy? I have read so many comments by individuals and some have been very thought provoking, while a large percent can not see past their own party colors. Is this who we really are as Canadians? Party goers or are we Canadians United and Strong with a people first focus? In this decrepit crisis, we need to be very cautious as Canadians to really understand what is a stake as a nation. Many Canadians are quick to shoot off with their mouth political babble and non-sense, and risk being narrow minded and ignorant.
How many Canadians or those to post comments have really taken time to read party policies and understand what is being transmitted? the fact is that Steven Harper has been voted in by our people to represent Canada and try to do his best. Whether we like it or not! Although not perfect by any means, I'm glad there is no bail out, isn't what this is about? "Rich to be richer", we all knew that there are risks in the market and it will always be an unstable system.

F. Burke
said

Calm down.
Coalitions are a legitimate form of government, well known in parliamentary democracies in many parts of the world.
The proposed coalition is made up of Liberals and New Democrats. The Bloc Quebecois supports the coalition, but is not part of it.
Mr. Harper is fully aware of this and his deliberate misrepresentation of the facts can only be called lying.

Cara Ottawa
said

I want to know how many people from the NDP, Liberal, Bloc and yes, the Green Party, agree with the coalition plan. It's easy for the talking heads to say they have more support than the Conservatives, but do they really? They seem to think that a vote for any of these parties counts as a vote for a coalition. I think they have greatly miscalculated their actual support. I believe there are many that they are "counting" who would in fact not support this. Another election would clear that up nicely. I dare them to run against the Conservatives as a coalition party.

Dominic from Toronto
said

I wish the GG strength...

Option 1: Prorogue with a defeated budget and call an election.

Option 2: Prorogue with a defeated budget and a Coalition of a three-headed-monster.

An election ($300 million) is better for Canada than the Coalition (Bloc to get extra $1.3 Billion and a veto) where the separatists hold the balance of power with secret side-deals.

An election will be about the same time as the Jan 26th budget... GG Jean, please consider a new election?!

Donald Roger McRae
said

I can hardly belive that this boring Country Canada can produce exciting news as this.This age that I live in has allow me to see how low some politicians can go, to stage a coup. Really third world soap opera.Is this Canada?

Caron
said

I am having a hard time getting around the fact that we, in Canada could have part of our government in power that has interests in only their own Province. Furthermore when I went to the polls to vote I never voted for a Coalition Government, which would mean to me that my vote did not count. Our politicians have managed to make Canada a laughing stock.....perhaps we are soon to be no longer a democracy.
SHAME ON THE POLICITIANS OF CANADA

Deanna Arnprior
said

The Bloc should not be allowed Veto. Stephen Harper and the Conservatives work with all the parties, but haven't signed a legal agreement, like the Liberals and NDP with the Bloc. The Conservatives are the only ones who have made ANY plans for this economy (even if those plans leave a bad taste in the mouths of opposition parties) AND have come back to the table after the fiscal update (while the opposition leaders have not). Canadians didn't vote for a coalition and many that I know are willing to go to the polls right now in favour of the Conservatives. Many NDP and Green party supporters simply voted against the Liberals and Dion. Their vote may go elsewhere if given a choice between this bullying Coalition and the Conservatives as they vote in favour of democracy and their right to be heard. If the opposition found the fiscal update was offensive to Canadians, you would have thought they would know that their actions are even more offensive to the majority of Canadians who believe in Democracy.

David Garon
said

Harper is a fascist. He tried to destroy the opposition parties last Thursday, and he and his minions treat the Bloc Quebecois as "treasonous". It is not yet a crime to peacefully advocate constitutional change in this country. Harper should be thrown out.

Beneton
said

Canadian voters have gone to the poles and voted for this govt. This coalition, after a few weeks from the federal elections is nothing but a velvet coup d'etat that will not represent the people's will, but only of a handful of people's ambitions to grab the power against the will of the voters. This is not democracy, this is a way to destabilize the country and should be punished by law.

Robb
said

I am a Conservative. I voted Conservative in the last election. While I do not want to see the Conservatives lose power, I also realize that the political mess we are in as a country cannot go on. If the coalation says that they are standing up for the people, then lets do it. I hope that the Governor General , in her power, calls an election for the people of Canada to sort this mess out. If I was a Liberal, or NDP, I would be pretty upset to have my vote go to a coalation that I did not want, and to a party( Bloc Quebecois) that I do not support. If this is for the good of the country, then let the COUNTRY decide, not the politicans.

l warne
said

Mr Harper,the ultimate river boat gambler,went"all in" and lost everything.He must now shake hands with the players still at the table and graciously walk away from the game!(ie. resign) Do we really want such a gambler playing with OUR money!

Alberta Boy
said

As a man who have lived 48 out of my 50 years in Alberta can anyone tell me WHY I SHOULD VOTE IN A FEDERAL ELECTION ANYMORE IT DOES NO GOOD!!!!!
I say no to this and it is time for a new vote

catherine
said

Shame on our PM for putting Canada in this position. I feel that he is doing the power grab by not letting the other parties have a fair ground to represent other canadians. What our PM needs to do is step down that parlimentand can get back to governing Canada for the good of the people.

Bob
said

Mr Prime Minister:
I like most Canadians am uteraly appauled in what is going on in parliament at this time. How this three headed sock puppet calling itself the coalition should never be aloud
to govern this country. What ever you have to do to stop this please do so.I did not vote for these yard birds. If we have to spend another 300 million on a election then lets do it, l bet you will get the Majority this time!!

Mike UG
said

Welcome to democracy in action for those of you who obviously haven't a clue about how our system of government works. Mr Harper and his sidekick Mr. Flaherty have every right to make everything under the sun a matter of confidence but they had to know that there could be this possibility. The opposition has every right to vote down the government just as these two less than honest gentlemen have the right to ask for a prorogue.

Donna
said

Perhaps the most statesmanlike option for Harper would be to resign as PM.

Maurice
said

What stupidity! The opposition is actually proposing to give the Bloc, a party that has no interest in staying in Canada, a leverage vote for trhe next 1 1/2 years!! They are not loyal Canadians, that is the whole point of their party.

I would have either prorogue until january and then vote on something of substance. Either that or an election. What did we vote for in the first place. And the majority of the voters will probably make the same choice again.

Mark
said

Perhaps it is time to revisit confederation. Our parliamentary system is fundamentally flawed and does not meet the needs of all Canadians. We will continue to find ourselves going to the polls and we will continue to be led by minority governments because no one party truly represents the needs of all Canadians. We have 33 million people in geographically the second largest country in the world. Each party has to pander to its power base and so we continue to see legislature that for many is untenable. For example, requiring Albertan farmers to register long rifles because Torontonians are alarmed at increasing gun crime in the inner city is asinine yet it happened. Confederation, from a historical perspective, is relatively new with Nunavut as the most recent edition newly created in 1999 and Newfoundland and Labrador joining as late as March 31, 1949. The design for Canada�s flag was chosen in a contest and was to represent Canadian unity however our national identity has become fragmented and we now sadly identify with what we are not (Americans) rather than what we are because truly what does it mean to be Canadian? I was born and raised in this country and have always been a proud Canadian but now I am embarrassed to identify with this once great nation. Pierre Trudeau, former prime minister revered by eastern Canadians, summed it up best when he negotiated successfully with Quebec to ensure they remained a part of Canada, then implemented the NEP to decimate the economy of western Canada, and famously displayed his middle finger to a crowd of angry western Canadian protestors. The needs of Western Canadians are not being met in Ottawa. Just as the USSR recognized that its union had become untenable so has ours - the system is broken and it is time to revisit confederation.

Pat in Lloydminster
said

Maybe it is time for us in the west to say to heck with the rest of Canada and go our own way. I am fed up with listening to central politics and their leaders who do not care about us one little bit.

Don DiMonte
said

I may be beating the wrong drum here, but the parliamentary laws that we use were, from what I can tell, from the 14th century. Back then, the Bloc would not exist, they would have been hung for treason, so to argue that the coalition has the right to do this based on parliamentary law is flawed. There is no way the law makers of the day meant for a parliamentary party such as the Bloc to exist, let alone have power even with a coalition. This is why Harper has the right as Prime Minister to stop this. If you are going to respect the laws of parliament, you must respect the spirit of the law as well.

A. Conda
said

Sounds like the "boys" from the other parties have decided they have nothing to lose and are going for control. I am not sure about Harper. I still have a bad taste from last year and the overstepping of the CNSC authority. He can be arrogant and needs to be watched via a Minority. I can't see one of the other "boys" being a clearly better choice at this time but I keep hoping.

GJ
said

with all the hoopla going about how this isnt what you wanted .. I muse about this parallel ...

how must the natives feel about being governed by someone they didnt elect ... or invite

Might want to ponder how meaningless your voice really is in the grand scheme of things.

anyways ..

Harper needs to stop whining and fear mongering, and deliver a stimulus package that has some teeth, a plan, a program , even a HINT , to show the country he is on the job, with a clear defined PLAN .. not trying to save his while the economy falls around our ears.

Mark my words, the recession will be borderline depression regardless of who does what, and inaction , or delay to action will only make it worse.

A 48 billion deficit will be a drop in the bucket compared to the true costs ahead.

All this mumbo jumbo about who is elected, or not, is all meaningless. Get someone in charge , and start the fixes, or there will be nothing left to fix.

I would rather have the 'gang of 3' than someone who doesnt have a clue what to do. Its not saying much for any of them tho.

Harry98
said

This is the most disgusting thing I have seen in the 50 years I have been able to vote in Canada. Canadians did not vote for these weasels (NDP/Libs) for a reason. They cannot be trusted. Now they think they are entitled to run the country after they lost the election. There must be some way to charge them with treason. I hope there is. Throw them in jail.

John from St. John's
said

Let's give the coalition a try - the current government don't seem to have a plan. These radio and tv ads are nonsense.
If the government falls with a non confidence vote - there's an election or a coalition. If The PM prorogues Parliment, this does nothing only to drag this out over a longer period of time. Canada is in a huge financial jam and if Prime Minister Harper is going to continue to fiddle, than Canadians will have to get someone else to do the job.

Zeke
said

If the Conservatives are not willing to govern this country with the input of the majority of voters, which they have demonstrated abundantly, then the Coalition should. Demonizing the Bloc is disgusting. If we are willing to have a dialogue with an enemy that has no compunction against killing us, how can we be any different with our own countrymen? Another election would be a waste of time and money. The Conservatives' strategy of 'divide and destroy' is an insult to Canadian values and morals!

Glyde Miller May
said

Please allow our system to work. Canadians who do not like this decision do NOT know how the system works. The Canadian election in October did NOT give Harper the right to govern Canada.Hello! It gave him the first choice to form a Govt. He blew it. Him and his reactionary party did not cooperate with the other parties. In fact they taunted the other parties with threats and admonitions and Party politics.The GG should allow this coalition a chance since Mr. Harper dropped the ball. He and his party should be grown-ups and back down to fight another day.

Vince Castonguay, Wheatley, Ontario
said

Jack and Gilles went up the Hill, to fetch a pail of power. Jack fell down and broke Stephane's crown, who angrily asked."Why can't I be king?"

If this coalition deal made in hell with The Bloc succeeds, do Canadians realize that their elected Government will sit in opposition to the Liberals, NDP and the separatists who will ALL reside on the Government side of the House.

The back room, secret deals to keep this coalition together until they gain power would no doubt alarm most of us.

The question is "Is it moral and acceptable to Canadians that a separatist party dedicated to the destruction of Canada, sit as part of the Government?

Michael Lunney
said

There seems to be some misinformation going around, so let�s try to remedy that. A majority of people, not including me, voted the Conservatives into a minority government. I say majority because there are currently 3 major political parties, which means theoretically, a party can win with 34% of seats. The only remedy would be to only allow 2 parties running per riding, as this would ensure one party obtaining over 50% of the vote, but that would clearly be undemocratic.

There is an old saying that if you do not learn from history you are doomed to repeat it and this is what is occurring now. It is true we had a coalition government back in 1917. This coalition was formed to deal with the conscription crisis during WWI. The result was deep divisions of the political parties based essentially upon language. This division is pretty much what started our current Quebec problems. In addition, the coalition was trying in their minds to find the man power necessary to continue the fight against our enemies (Germany, etc). That was the last time a coalition government was formed, not even during the Great Depression did political parties attempt another. The current coalition has no such lofty goals like the last; it is merely an attempt to save them from losing their funding per voter. In essence, they are motivated by nothing more than self preserving greed, and greed is what precipitated this current economic crisis that the world is in today.

On a personal level, the actions of the coalition parties disgust me and I believe that their actions will only be detrimental to Canada. Did anyone see Ms. May's reaction to a perceived appointment, she seems giddy at the prospect of power, and she almost scares me.

Layton in NB
said

Man, I hope that we get this coalition under way, the reality sadly is that Harper has totally dropped the ball on the economy. He has failed to work with the opposition parties like anyone with his SECOND minority should be doing. I will give him credit as he has done some good for this country, but the economy is not part of that. Making sure that Made In Canada means what it says is a good thing, tax breaks for public transit use, that's also a good thing. Cutting taxes to the point where the surplus is all but gone...that's stupid. You wouldn't make an effort to run YOUR finances this way, why should our Government be any different?
The very people you see and hear screaming that we are being OVER taxed, that's the same generation who helped run up this massive debt in the first place and now they don't want to pay for it? BULL$%&# !!! Throw out the Conservatives, had they actually taken care of OUR tax dollars, there would be money for economic stimulus. A planned and thought out investment in our nation to help kick our economy in the arse. Harper has no plan...Go coalition!!!

Garry Fancy
said

I thought the three stooges died years ago. Apparently they have been resurrected. Guess where my sympathies are!

Dayton
said

For all you wise voters voting strategically so Harper would not get a majority. Pat yourselves on the back. My job is secure as I own my own international business. Good luck with yours!!!

Rob
said

In the pre election time period the Liberal party did not mention a coilition with the separatists if they did not get a majority. Harper won all his seats fair and square...a minority government can work...give it a chance. An error in judgement has placed our parliament in termoil. this is no reason to dissolve this session. Send Canadians back to the polls...opposition parties may be shocked at the results.

Bob lemenchick
said

I believe that my vote should count. I didn't vote for Dion , Layton or the Bloc. Let these power hungry men go to the people of Canada and have us decide who we want too run our country. Just think of the money they would spend. I hope the GG will let Harper govern the country . He won the election.

Chris B Halifax NS
said

Stephen Harper as lost the trust and confidence of Paralament and with the people ocf Canada. Stephen Harper should do the right thing for Canada and resign, and let the Deputy Prime Minister take over the PC Party and run the country.

Pat
said

A lame duck,a seperatist & a socialist running Canada. Go to the polls again.

Sue, Alberta
said

I can't believ that the government of Canada can be so petty with their differences. Forming a coalition government is just another way to throw a toddlers temper tantrum. The opposition is behaving like children, the adult response is to work with Steven Harper. This global economic crisis is very troubling to many Canadains, and to be honest trying to overthrow the elected government is just putting a halt to all plans to save Canada from it. The basic word to all of the elected officials is to: "GROW UP"

Cathi, Tisdale, Sk
said

This is a crisis - our own PM trying to educate the public on how Parliment works but through manipulation and deception - democracy in Canada allows those with the majority of support in the House to have political power - single party or coalition. Harper has a minority and no ability to get the support of a majority - this is illegitimate. Wake up Harper and be honest! The coalition has the majority support of the House - they are the only legitimate force! Too bad they don't have leadership the country wants - but in Canada's democracy, this is irrelevant. Harper needs to respect Canada and our system of government!

Randy
said

This is not a Coalition, this is a coup. We live in a Democracy, at least the last I checked. If this Coalition wants to take power, let the people decide. I am sick and tired of Layton and Dion saying they are speaking of behalf of Canadians. They are not speaking for me! I can live with the will of the people of Canada. I cannot and will not support a Government taken by force.

gary d from lethb ridge
said

the conservatives are the peoples choice.not the pq,not ndp,not the liberals.This coalition is made up of the devil,hitler,and the want a be.We the people are having our right to chose who is to govern us taken away,by those who are not voted in by the people.the liberals are sleeping with the ones who want to bring CANADA down.All the coalition want is all our tax money for ont,and que.How can the coalition be the gov of canada when they have no reps in the west.All i can say is remember the GOMERY TRIALS.The coalition is in to grab money for ont,que.

CF from Calgary
said

Stephane Dion for Prime Minister and Jack Layton as his right hand?....That makes me sick to my stomach just thinking about it!!!!!!

Max Julien
said

The people did not choose Stephen Harper and his overzealous prehistoric tools who endorse a lack of personal freedoms - unless it suits their "family value" pseudo-agenda. The Conservatives, who removed the word "Progressive" from their title years ago, received fewer votes and seats, while Parliament has lost confidence in these self-serving individuals who regard the interests of the people as secondary. Remember, Junior Bush is not around to protect them anymore! Therefore, if the majority of the House, who represent the people, want to oust Harper's gang, well, that's good enough for me!

barry caswell.
said

i do not trust harper at all he is is a bully ..and he is getting it back.. no great loss. he has to go ...

linda
said

Canada has voted and as a democracy the voice of the people has already spoken. A coalition government is NOT what is needed at a time like this and shows confusion to the people and the world. We need strong leadership and consolidation NOT war among the parties.

I didnt vote conservatives last time but I will next time - who do the others think they are seizing power when they havent earned it?

ray
said

I wish this country would have representation by total vote and get rid of the current system that does not work. If this were the case The Green Party would have more seats then the Bloq (who shouldn't even be aloud to participate in Canadian politics) and every one else would be represented in accordance to what the rest of the entire country voted in an exact percentage basis.

JAGuar
said

I'm tired of all this "62% DIDN'T vote Harper" as a justification for the coalition. Our ballots in the last election didn't have merely two choices on them (ie "Harper" or "Not Harper").
Do the math properly people! You will note that only 26.2% voted Liberal in the last election. That means that 73.8% DIDN'T vote for Dion! Only 18.2% voted NDP. That means that 81.8% DIDN'T vote for Layton! All in all, Harper had the least percentage of people who DIDN'T vote for him! That makes him the winner! It's reverse math!
This "62.4% didn't vote for Harper" is all just a mind game to get people to back the "LiberalNDPBlocGreen" party which, when all is said and done, is a bunch of sore losers.

stan
said

Please ask Mr Harper to quit wasting money on ads we don't want to hear. I vote coalition the ads show me he's not working on Canada's difficulties he's busy trying to keep his job & wasting money on ads

C.Gibson
said

I didn't vote for Harper this time, but as I see it he is the lesser of two evils. How is it at a time when our citizens are looking for strong leadership we end up with a group of children squabbling for control of the play ground. This coalition effort strikes me as nothing more than power grab by Ontario & Quebec. I agree that Harper made a mistake, then let him fix it. Nobody from any political party took B.C.'s forest crisis too seriously, but as soon as jobs in Ontario are threatened they're all over it. Grow up and get over your selves. You are in power only because we the citizens of Canada put you there. Work together and pull this country through these tough times. Don't pull us apart.

Linda Mattawa, ON
said

The Canadian people made their choice on election day. Why then do the leaders of the opposition parties think they can override the people's choice by forcing themselves into a position of power that was not freely given them.

MIchael (Ottawa)
said

This coalition may be legal BUT it violates the spirit and intent of Parliamentary procedure BECAUSE the Layton, Duceppe as authors of this coalition were doing this deal PRIOR to the beginning of this Parliament and in doing so violate the choices made by the Canadian people. This violates the election choices we just made.

Beyond this violation we are faced with separatists at the table of government. Surely this is against our constitution! How can you allow traitors to the Canadian cause at the table of government? It's simply outrageous.

We need another election now.

Michelle in Niagara
said

The government needs to be concentrating on finding ways to get us OUT of the economic turmoil they have put us in rather than this. Enough. We voted Harper in. Not the Liberals, not the NDP, not the Green Party, not the BLOC. Please do your job that you are taking our money for and stop making us angry or else we will start giving our money to another country.. we have one to the South of us who would LOVE our economic assistance and I would love to give it to them. Atleast there their vote actually counts and is recognized.

Tony D
said

Tony D.
It seems to me that Harper started the problem and Dion is trying to take advantage. Both should get booted out from their parties and let us get honest polititian that they realy care about this country.

Netta Dafoe
said

Mr. Dion and Mr. Layton are willing to put aside their principles and work with an avowed separatist,
Mr Duceppe to gain power. If the economy goes down the drain I lay the blame not at
the feet of Prime Minister Harper but at the Opposition leaders. They have made their lust for power to be the prime subject rather than letting the government get on with the work of keeping this economy above water.

Shame on all of them

tp
said

I do not recall the removal of party subsidies being an issue in the previous election, any more than the coalition option was. In any case, circumstances change, as should reactions to them.

The new prime minister, whether he or she, should use this example of dysfunction to proceed in the new year to accelerate the discussions toward proportional representation.

stephanie peddle
said

this is crazy we did not vote for the block i cant belive that dion after the canadian people said clearly the did not want him as pm and yet he found a way to take whats not his lets go back to an election and see how well he does in an election when the canadian people know hes in bed with the sepratist mr dion we the people run this country not you or jack

Jim in Trenton
said

Anyone who is in support of the 3 headed coalition government does not want another election, they know the Conservitives will win, AGAIN!!!

Rob in On
said

This is outrageous!! How can this coalition govern our country effectively when their ideologies are so different! The Libs and NDP say the Bloc will only support the coalition but if you do a deal with the devil you always have to give something up! What did they give to the seperatists?!! Isn't it ironic that Stephane Dion, who was the chief architect in the Clarity Act has now reinvigorated the seperatist movement by making the Bloc legitimate in Parliament.
Every Canadian should be outraged. Tweedle Dee (Iggy) and Tweedle Dumb (Bob Rae) keep telling us that the Prime Minister has lost the confidence of the house! Should they not let parliament get rolling first before brazenly making such ridiculous assumptions?
( didn't they just pass the thrown speech?) All those two can do, is salivate at the possibility of power and they'll do nothing short of treason to get it! Yes it is within Parliamentary right to pull off this coalition khoo, but we haven't even let the dust settle from the election and the Conservatives haven't had the chance to govern. I guess it's not the will of the people but the opportunity to sieze power that really matters in our flawed Parliamentary system. All Canadians should be concerned that our democratic choice is being ignored! We gave the Conservatives a NEW mandate and this kangaroo political alliance should respect that!!

Gary in SSM
said

The last thing we need right now is political uncertainty. The Liberal Party couldn't get its act together enough to win as many seats as it did in previous elections. They have rejected Stephan Dion as their leader and now they think they can run the country? Give your head a shake. I won't even go into the while BQ thing. Sufice to say that if this goes through I will never vote for the Liberal or NDP federally or provincially ever again.

GB

Ian from Regina
said

I heard that Ralph Goodale's office was egged today. Lets cool it. Porogue and let's see what the government have in mind in a budget.If the MPs still want to bring the government down then let it happen.

Lloyd Blanchard
said

This coalition has a lust for power and does not have a legitimate right to power.

valerie
said

I am disgusted with our government and our politicians...but I used to think that we lived in a democratic country where our vote counted. Why have we wasted millions of dollars on this past election if this coalition takes over? I would think that at the very least the Canadian people should have the right to vote on that! It is time for some young, fresh politicians to emerge to lead our country...let's get rid of this old school mindset...bring on Peter Mckay!

Rodney
said

Prime Minister Harper blew it. He, by his bullying of the house last Parliament, thought that he could be the dictator again.

Why he had to make this vote a confidence vote only he can say. He united the right and it seems his uniting abilities now extend to the left. He united them as well. It is time the Conservatives let this go to a vote, or replace Harper with a new Prime Minister.
He is using the Unity question to hang onto power and this is what bothers me the most.

Marilyn McDonald Sault Ste. Marie, ON
said

I am very angry at our current political situation. Our country voted and gave the conservatives a mandate to govern as a minority government. We did not vote for a coalition. To me this is a power grab for both the Liberals and the New Democrats. If a coalition wants to govern then put it to the people and get a mandate to do so.

Bernie, Moncton
said

People seem to forget one crucial thing about this Coalition Government. That is "Do you want to climb in bed with the Separatists?". They will receive (unconfirmed) $3.1 Billion to join this coalition, plus have veto power over who will run the country. If they don't like Stephane, boot him out in favor of Layton and vice versa. Is this the stabilizing force we need right now at this juncture. We are playing into the separatists hands. This is pure unadulterated foolishness of the highest level. I used to vote Liberal until Stephane and his carbon tax. He didn't consult the people so he lost. Now he wants to take his dinkie cars and go home. Power hungry, poor sport. I don't like what Stephen Harper is doing any more than a lot of you, but in this time I think it's better "The Devil you know" vs "The Devil you don't". Doesn't this partnership make anyone else the least bit nervous????

Kelsey - Winnipeg
said

"John: The majority of Canadians didn't vote for ya Steve. Tough luck."

Well John, I guess to use your own methodology; no one voted for this new co-op party. They voted for individual parties that ran on different platforms! The Liberals need to fix their own party before trying to run a country. They don�t even want Dion running the party, so how can he run the country.

This whole thing is a joke. Maybe they should co-operate for the greater good of Canada.

William HIckey St. Johns Newfoundland
said

I feel that the resent bid by Dion, and the leaders of the other parties to talk power is sicking. This nation was build on the fact the peolpe have the right to choose to leads them, and six weeks ago they made that choice. Canadians feel that harper and his gov. are the best ones to lead us through this time of uncertianty. I was always proud to call myself Canadain, but now all I feel is sham.

Tracy Krahn
said

I am so outraged! This is insanity! We just voted in our conservative government! Who do the liberals think they are? Sore losers is what they are! A vote is a vote. As far as I know this is still Canada not some communist country. Steven Harper is not to blame for the state of the world's economy...

Dean Chapman
said

I am not in favor of this new coalition government but on the other hand the conservatives need to get Harper to govern properly. My wife is from Russia and she says Harper is doing what Putin did to hold his power. Take away political funding, take away the rights of workers. I am certainly not in favor of that either.

Hal
said

We Are Going To Cuba This Year Again For A Vacation....I Would Invite All The Coalition Supporters To Come Along To See How Wonderful This Political Process Works... Shame On The Libs And NDP

joe
said

Looks to me like Dion and Layton will do absolutely anything to gain power. Just be honest guys it's all about YOU not the good of canada. If all else fails take it back to the people along with your agenda.

Deb
said

Our forfathers would say this was treason...

Adam, Kingston
said

All I want to say is this:

When anglophones speak for the french and what they repreasent then that further invigorates the power of separtism. The french bloc is in the federal government to protect the interests of the french at the national level. As long as anglophones continue to speak for the french there will always be a level of separtism. This isnt about separtism this is about the best interests for quebec, which the bloc would most certaintly endorse as they have with the conservatives in the past to form a government.

joy
said

We did not elect the Conservatives or Stephen Harper. Canadians elected a MINORITY parliament. The simple fact is that Harper lost the confidence of the house. According to our constitution, the opposition has the right to bring down the government in this situation. That is what they will do when they vote against the confidence motion on dec 8. I'm PROUD that the libs and ndp want to work TOGETHER, something that Harper refused to do. The Bloc is not a part of this coalition, that is a lie that the conservatives are using to mislead and scare canadians because they are desparate to retain power. The bloc will support the coalition for 18 months. Funny how Harper is so up in arms about the bloc and their support of the coalition - he got the bloc's support 14 times during his last mandate. He didn't demonize them then. I say, bring on the coalition and watch what parties can do when they put the interests of canadians first.

Mike
said

Time for the West to start talking to the U.S. about joining. At least our votes count for something in their Republic.

Gravff Itti
said

Stephen Harper, leader of the Conservative Reform Alliance Pary, is obligated to face a vote of confidence.

The democraticaly elected, legitimate opposition has the right, and obligation, to vote on matters of confidence.

The Governor General is obligated to ensure the governing party adheres to our constitutionally mandated, parliamentry laws.

For Mr. Harper to deny our Members of Parliament their democratically legitimate due right to vote on matters of confidence is deriliction of his Prime Ministerial duities.

Further, to willfully enflame the situation with accusations of treason and sedition is an affront to all Canadians.

The Governor General is obligated to ensure the governing party faces a vote of confidence. No progrogation. Face the democratically elected opposition now.

ben
said

Maybe this is the fault of Canadians. Voter turn out was at a record low of 59.1%. This is unfortunate and this may have been avoided if more people would have voted. Personally I feel that if you do not vote then you can not complain.

Kevin from Hamilton
said

I have only a few words for those who are Harpering on the Bloc... they were democratically elected by your fellow Canadians... Quebec hasn't spereated yet. Just because you may not personally like the French, doen't give you the right to ingore their rights in favour of your own.

As for the coalition not being what you voted for... in a minority government situation you have to work with the other parties... it is obvious the 3 parties are willing to work together for the betterment of Canada. Our system was set up with coalitions in mind.

As for our embattled PM, you made your bed, now lie in it, not in the press.

The Economic Statement is a budget statement... it indicates that this is the way the government plans to deal with the economy.

Now after all of the uproar the government has caused... they want to come back in Jan with another kick at the can.

The government made their bet and the opposition parties are calling their bluff.

Larry NL
said

There was a time that I was a staunch liberal supporter and then John Chretien started his lies about gst and no tax raises. Well the gst is still there and it was Mr. Harper that lowered the taxes.
I wouldn't trust a liberal to show me how to cross the street. They lie and when they aren't lying, they are robbing the poor to give to the rich and taking a cut for them selves.

Bob from BC
said

Ridiculous!
Just remember though, it's all politics. The 'Coalition' is screaming for the government to state their policy on the economy. If the coalition went ahead tomorrow, when would they put their policy forward? Bet they'd have to wait for Obama to become president and see what he does. Bottom line we're no farther ahead. Nothing back a power grab simply because they can at the moment.

Lou a Canadian first.
said

why do the Liberals keep saying Canadians are upset and it is what Canadians want in each and every interview??? I am not upset. Everyone that I speak with weren't upset till this coalition came . I am upset my vote no longer counts! I think no matter what government, it is wise to wait for our largest trading partner to figure out what we are going to do with our money. Not sure how many Canadians know or don't know, that our country doesn't have it's value set on what we buy ourselves, but what the world including the US, our biggest customer buys from us. This was a timing thing for little boys who saw an opportunity to take the governments toys. I won't want to pay taxes to a government that wasn't voted in. Notice I didn't say that I voted for. I believe in the Democratic system. It was designed for voters, not pirates.!!!!

Nate from the Bay
said

Where is Harper getting all this money for these attack adds from?

Sue in Sask
said

PPSST, Stevie Harper,
you wouldn't be in this mess in the first place if you hadn't been so childishly insecure and made everything and the kitchen sink a CONFIDENCE VOTE last year. Didn't you know that wasn't necessary? You made those you VOWed to work with unable to do their job.
And in case you're friends didn't do the math for you, more people VOTED AGAINST your party in the last election than voted for your party.
But thanks for the lively politcal news these days...much more exciting than the liberals hanging out in the foyer not voting yet again.

Karyn
said

I have had enough of the uninformed spewing opinions about the so called ruination of the country because of the agreement with the Bloc. Come on! Harper has relied upon and lured the Bloc to prop him up on many occasions and even tinkered with a deal to form his own coalition.

More importantly - Harper is the only Prime Minister to ever recognize Quebec as a nation in the House of Commons -- THAT PEOPLE, is far more dangerous and telling of what that man will do or how low he will sink to get power.

A smart man would not have pulled the school boy hijinks of bullying that Harper did last week. He should resign and save the country this crisis.

Sharon Burke
said

I am sickened by this coalition. It is hard to believe that the Party of Pierre Trudeau and Romeo LeBlanc would be cozying up to the Separatists. Jacques Parizeau's unqualified support for this coalition today was the icing on the cake for me ... Shame on the Liberals.

Scott - not near Coldwater, ON
said

Many countries have coalition governments, many do not work or have a very difficult time in getting a piece of legislation passed into law. One only has to look at Isreal with it's over abudence of parties, it is impossible for one party to rule. A coalition is a legal devise within our government.
However, what is disturbing, the man who will become Prime Minister in this coalition has the lowest approval rate of any Liberal leader. The party which supports this coalition is a party that is only represented by one Province and it has to be known that this one province will greatly benefit by this fact.
We also, have no idea as to what backroom agreement has been played for these three parties, a fourth actually now that May gets to become a Senator for life.
Just because they have signed an agreement to toss out the ruling, abeit minority party, we the people would like to know their agenda, where, what how, why before these power hungry politians grab everything.
The only good to come out of this is that on the next election most of Canada will be sufficiently angry with this coalition that the Liberals and NDP will drop out of the radar, too bad Iggy, too bad Rae.
Rae, just do not leave Canada in rags as you did with Ontario.

Niagara George
said

The blame for our present mess, lies with the Liberals. They should have done this after the previous election!

Unfortunately, they were in an uncomfortable position, with Martin on the way out. When Dion was selected leader, it soon became clear that he did not really have the support of his caucus.

All of that gave Harper and the Cons an opportunity to run all over parliament. He did not govern in the way you would expect from a minority.

With Dion on the way out, Harper thought he could up the pressure and start to bring out some of his infamous 'hidden agenda.'

Something had to happen to show this power-crazed idealogue that parliament has a tradition that he cannot destroy.

Amazingly, the Liberals and NDP were able to sort out their significant differences in only one weekend.

Harper had been unable to gaim any real support from the other parties in over two years! He had his chance and ruined it.

Give the coalition an opportunity to rescue Canada!

Fleur
said

To the supporters of the coaltion - please, stop spewing your loose interpretation of "democracy" and your repeated attempts to justify this. This is school-yard bully tactics and the three "would-be" leaders are power-hungry and are spitting in the face of Canadian voters who made a clear choice at the polls only 6 weeks ago. No matter how you try to spin the facts, they are figuratively flipping the bird to all the people who took the time to vote in the last election. The coalition and their supporters are sore losers and they have seriously underestimated the fury of Canadians at this see-through attempt to grab power. Thanks to these types of antics, you can be suer I will vote Conservative for the rest of my life. I'm completely disgusted by Dion and Layton, who are only looking out for their own interests when they should be looking out for the interests of their constituents. God bless Canada, this should be an embarrassment and an outrage to us all.

Chris P. Calgary
said

I am tired of hearing "The West Can't Separate" type arguments. Lets take a look at what is happening. Three Quebecers are staging a Coup. The GG has the label of a separatist supporter - appointed by the Liberals. There has been revelations that Jacques Parizeau and the PQ are a part of this deal and that billions of dollars are flowing into Quebec. Elizabeth May hasn't ran for the Senate and believes she is entitled to it when there are Albertan's that democratically ran for the office.
The only ones that are going to be screwed on this Coalition is Western Canada. Why should we stay in this broken relationship called Canada?

ps: To those who say that the west can't separate; oh yes we can.

concerned Citizen
said

Poor Canada!!
We need a leader that is a leader! That has more a kindergarden approch to running this country. All I have heard is name calling, back stabbing, who wants to listen to more of the same! It would be great if they would talk about the needs of our country, and what plans they have in running this country, I haven't heard anything that concerns that yet!

Vivian BC
said

Shame on the opposition parties! They are all elected to work for a better and more stable country, for the Canadians. The one reason that they can put aside their differences and work together now is for power??? Holding Canadians hostage to either spend more $$$ for another election or go with this never-will-agree-on-anythingelse coalition? My family will never agree with this coalition and will definitely remember this in the next election.

Stewie in Ottawa
said

This mess shows the deficiency of our democratic system. Unlike the Americans, we don't get to elect our senators. Unlike the Americans who vote for their president, we don't even get to vote for our Prime Minister - if we did, there would be no discussions on the possibility of Stephane Dion being our PM. All we actually get to vote for is the representative in our riding and then we hand the whole system over to a house of representatives and pray we get what we want. Even our Governor General is someone we don't vote on. If we want to prevent this kind of power shift from what voters intended to backroom deals with Separatists and a PM who the majority of people feel isn't suitable for the job (and who will be replaced by someone we won't vote on either) the system needs to be revised.

Vancouverite
said

Lots of short sighted tactical moves going on, is anyone thinking long term about this country? Can the Liberals and Conservatives get together and meet half way on these contentious budgetary issues for the sake of stability?

Of course not, that would make too much sense.

Mark my word, the whole thing is going to implode...all three of these guys are finished when this plays out completely.

Unfortunately we don't have that time, and its going to hurt all of us.

Jay from Alberta
said

The economy is bad in the east, however there is still a signifcant labour shortage in the west. If people in Ontario and Quebec are upset at no jobs, perhaps they should move west to where the jobs are.
If this coalition goes ahead it will be nothing more than a second NEP for the west. Jack Layton will be the environmental minister. He's already wanting to shut down the oilsands. This isn't going to help the economy. There will be lost jobs from people across Canada.
It's been said in the comments you'll hear of Western Seperation and I agree. Let the East freeze in the dark. They won't be able to afford the oil.

Anders Hayden
said

This is not a "backdoor takeover" as some have suggested. There is only one door to leading a government in our democratic parliamentary system, and that is for a leader to have the support of a majority of the elected members of the House. Stephen Harper doesn't have that support anymore. The leader of the coalition does. It's perfectly legitimate and democratic under the rules of our system.

Lorne Jordan
said

Welcome to Canada, the world's newest banana republic, with the much maligned Dion, the unelectable NDP and the separatists at the helm 7 weeks after an election they lost. Wow.

John Neufeld
said

We did not vote for a Coaliton government. The Liberal and NDP parties will experience the consequences of their bad judgment, in the next election, if they force this thing through.
It looks as if they never had any intention of working with the Conservatives.

Tired of the system
said

How about we resolve this very quickly, dissolve these parties that have ABSOLUTELY no chance of ever coming to power and reform in two groups. Make an odd number of seats across the country and someone will have to get a majority. THEN call an election.
It's a sad state we put ourselves into that a party that will never win a seat outside of one province now holds the cards..
Two parties, one winner.

Morris - Toronto
said

The root cause of what's happening is our electoral system.
We vote for a federal Governement with the same system other countries vote for their mayor !!
Mr. Harper is allowed to represent the entire Country with a vote share of 37%.
This is NOT a democracy.
This does NOT provide stability.

The Governor General has no options but to change the electoral system.
1-Your party gets a % of seats based on how many votes you had, NOT how many MPP were elected !
2-You either have 50%+1 vote by yourself or with a coalition or you won't govern the country.
It's that simple !

In the meantime, her way out would be:
2 one way tickets for Mr. Harper and Mr.Dion to Galapagos Islands to review Darwin's Theories
Get all the parties together to come up with some form of technical cabinet to manage this global crisis.

One last thing.
Please, all of you guys in Ottawa, stop using the TV to show your smiley confident face trying to sell your points.
Canadians are tired and you are not helping.

Randy
said

This coalition is probably the one sure way to give Mr Harper the Majority he has wanted for so long.The people who don't like Harper will vote as they did last election.The conservatives will vote the same. The vast majority of comments I have read seem to be against the coalition. These people are quite upset/angry. They will definitely vote. They will probably not support the coalition members and Mr Harper only needs 12 seats for his majority. You should think this through. Maybe the coalition will work and govern.That depends on cooperation between 3 parties.They better hope it does or when the people get to voice their opinion it will not be pretty.

Craig
said

Gee...if there is another election, I think I might just vote GREEN...that way none of the little boys who are having a temper tantrum will get in!! Pass the word.

Jonah
said

It seems that almost everybody is uninformed about our political process in Canada. We do NOT elect our prime Minister, we elect MP's to the house of Commons. Every person sitting in the House of Commons in Democratically elected by the people of Canada. According to convention(tradition), the Govenor General asks the leader of the largest party to be PM. NO WHERE in the constitution does it say anything about the PM and thier Powers, so technically any MP who is the leader of a party who has the confindence of the majority of the House can be the PM. if the GG sees Fit to ask someone else to govern instead of going to another election, they he or she can do that, as it is within their powers. Everything is constitionally sound, so i dont understand why people think it's a Coup D'etat. We haven't had a situation exactly like this before and so people are unsure, but if three parties can maintain goverence and create stability, then why not? They represent the majority of people. We may not have voted for a coalition, but do we vote for merges of parties? NO. We didn't vote for the PC and Canadian Alliance merge,or merges of other parties. We don't vote on approval when members cross the floor, so why should we have to vote when parties want to work together to make parliament work? isn't what politics is about,working together? The Bloc is not part of the coalition, they are merly offering support on crucial votes, and in doing so not have any members of Cabinet or senate appointments. What's so bad about helping keep Canada Stable? I say give it a shot, if it doesn't work then Canadian will have their say in the next election.

Steve in Aylmer
said

Bids to Save His Career!

That should have been the headline!

Tom in Etobicoke
said

This whole shenanigan will tear the country apart! Do you think those three parties will actually work with eachother? No, the Afghanistan pullout issue will keep Jack and Stephane from seeing eye to eye. Jack won't like a "Quebec Only" issue being pushed by the Bloc as it doesn't apply to everybody (socialist context). But then again, I think out of morbid curiosity the coalition should govern so taxes can go UP job losses go UP and that carbon tax.... do you think Stephane will let that go? Thus gas and fuel prices will go UP. Cost of living UP and all these people lashing out at the Conservatives will lash out at the coalition. No one will ever be happy in any situation, so, I agree with one recent comment on this page, treat them like children because they sure act like it. In the end, I would prefer that Parliament doesn't get hijacked and the status quo continue.

Henry
said

Canadians did not elect a Conservative majority. We do not trust you Mr. Harper. Therefore, Harper should have tried to work with the opposition, which he didn't. Now the opposition forms a coalition government and Harper says it is illegal, which it isn't. Sorry Mr. Harper, calling an early election was a big mistake since we did not need one. Do not forget that you proposed having a fixed election date and then broke your own rules. GO coalition GO! Harper resign resign resign!!

emanuel miggiani
said

Conservative goverments were never good for Canada. Start from the most hated politician Brian Mulroony that brought his Goverment down to just a couple of elected members of his then massive majority. Then there was the ill-faithed six-month old Conservative goverment headed by Joe Who. Now it is time once and for all to legitimately get rid of the most ardent, bully, and arrogant Stephen Harper and render him to just play his harp at home. Coalition goverments is nothing new. They exist in different countries all over the world. Problem here is, this concept should have taken place earlier in this country, at least at the end of last election results,when the opportunity existed. I say the sooner the Conservatives are thought a lesson they deserve, the better.

Al
said

Harper and the Conservatives have done NOTHING to help manufacturing in Ontario. He can go on TV begging to keep his job but I'll be watching Two and A Half Men.....much more entertaining!

Kristy Hayden
said

You think Stephen Harper is responsible? Is there not evidence that Layton has been planning this for some time? Dion and Layton are on sinking ships and this is the only way that they can grab power. Call an election! Let's send a message again- apparently it did not sink in the first time.

Jordan
said

I think a coalition is a great idea because it gives less power to a single party and forces politicians to work together - what a concept! In fact why doesn't Harper join the coalition, instead of trying to undermine them? I am disheartened at how Canadian politics has joined the WWF style politics of our Southern neighbors.

We have serious problems on our hands here an it will take a serious effort on all our parts to start seeing eye to eye. I do think that it should be put to the people, to be true to democracy, but maybe this is a sign of a fault in the system.

Lets talk about proportional representation or better yet, for true democracy, lets go all the way for inividual representation. Instead of voting for "leaders", lets vote for laws and motions ourselves. That is true democracy, where each individual has a say, not somebody to have a say for us.

Also, lets get local. Why have all your power centred thousands of km away, when the real issues are in your backyard?

Harper doesn't have enough support to run the country effectivel for the 2nd election in a row. It's time for a change in the system because our hands are tied with the current structure. We need to find an alternative system, one that can keep up with rapid change tht we are seeing on all levels.

Lets be brave, embrace the future, embrace change. We can do it!

Maritimer in Winnipeg
said

To Adam from Halifax:

You wrote "As a Maritimer I will absolutely welcome a coalition government! I do not like Stephen Harper or the way he runs things. He hasn't done anything to improve or help the Maritimes."

I must say I'm shocked, as one Maritimer to another, ask yourself who in all of Canada has the most to lose with the Bloc having increased power? The Maritimes! Do you not remember the nervousness and the fear in the East of being cut off from mainland Canada during the height of separatist talk? Or do simply not care? You say Mr. Harper hasn't done anything for the Maritimes but honestly what do you think Gilles Duceppe will do for you because in case it hasn't set in buddy, he holds the balance of power on all great and wonderful things you think this coalition will do for us Maritimer�s. Just think about it.

Frank Campbell
said

For the most part, I've been a Tory most of my life and have worked for them on many occasions... As a Tory, I am ashamed to have to say this.... but Stephen Harper is a school yard "bully" and as we are teaching our children to come together and stand up to these bullies, It was just a matter of time until his tactics back-fired on him... I don't necessarily agree with all that is happening or may happen... but he brought it on himself and it looks good on him.... whinning and crying and denying is usually the next step by a bully... You say he is on TV tonight ?? Ya, that is about right....

Jen
said

Personally I don't approve of Canada's Parliament being lowered to no more than children in a school yard. My 5 yr old has the common sense to know that calling each other names doesn't solve the problem at hand. Working together does. One cannot stand behind a Government who, instead of working with the opinions and concerns of Canadians as represented in Parliament, has decided to whine and bicker about them instead.
I say to you respectively Most Honorable Mr. Harper, please do your job as you were voted in to do. Stop whining like a child to his mother or attacking others who oppose your ideas, and hiding from issues that you are too afraid to deal with. Work with, not against, your colleagues to find the much needed answers to Canada's many issues at hand. Start "Standing up for Canada" and her people and perhaps the Opposition wouldn't feel like they have to do it for you.

Sask Man
said

This is not about anything other than opportunist thinking in the quest for power.

This is the only time in the next 18 months that the opposition would dare do this, so they have seized the moment.

These opposition leaders let greed and power go to their heads and will in the end loose.

It will affect the next liberal leader's chances to be PM as well.

Michael Neilly
said

The New Strong. That was the slogan of Jack Layton and his New �Democratic� Party.

With the New Strong, Elizabeth May, who ran for office but doesn�t even have a seat in parliament, feels she is entitled to a cabinet seat. If you ran and lost, you are entitled. Based on this new criterion, since I didn't even run in this election, I am likewise entitled.

With the New Strong, people whom Canadians felt were unfit to govern just a scant six weeks ago deem themselves fit, without a pesky, democratic election.

The New Strong. I was so excited with my new-found powers that I emailed our three opposition leaders and told them that if their candidates ever showed up at my door, they�d be driven from the property. As for Duceppe, I asked him to remember Mussolini. Now normally that would be taken as a threat. But that�s okay, because, like our three opposition leaders, I�ve empowered myself to take power.

Why have elections after all? It�s the New Strong.

Mike from Toronto
said

Why dont politicians do whats best for Canadians instead of whats best for them and their buddies?

Everyone just wants power power and more power. This is why worst kind of people often end up in politics. Normal, down to earth, people dont get into this and then every election they try to "prove" to us how they are like every "common joe." They are not, they are a different species, cause none of us are this power hungry!

Do whats right for Canada, not whats best for you!

William
said

We true Canadians want our country back. I was never for separation, but I have now changed my mind. Give Quebec what it wants, but if must be total separation with absolutely no ties to the rest of Canada. I have voted liberal since the Trudeau years, but hell will freeze over before they get another vote from me. These people have gotten in bed with the devil and do not care what we Canadians think. Well to Mr. Rae & Ignatieff, you may become leaders, but I and other sane Canadians will do what ever we can through the democratic process to see neither of you ever becomes Prime Minister. You are traitors to the people who elected you. To Governor General: LISTEN TO THE VOICE OF THE PEOPLE YOU WERE APPOINTED TO REPRESENT.

Jennifer Jury
said

JJ - Woodstock, ON
If all those in our government would spend as much time "governing" as they ALL do in backstabbing, throwing insults and digging up dirt on each other, then maybe Canada would be in a better position. It seems that none of our so called leaders care about Canada, just about pointing fingers at each other. If our leaders don't stop acting like schoolchildren and start really doing their jobs, nothing is going to change and Canada will again be the laughing stock of the world.
I am very angred at the thought that our votes may have all been for naught, and that the leaders of the NDP and Liberals are jumping into bed with the leader of a separatist party, but look at the time that is being wasted on this - and at such a time with the world economy that way it is. Lets all get back to work and stop this "nah nah na nah nah" attitude and earn back what little respect this Country had from the rest of the world.

MARY FROM NEW BRUNSWICK
said

The former gg SAID THAT IF HE WERE STILL GG, HE WOULD ACCEPT THE COALITION.

It is LAW, the ACCORD WAS SIGNED , accept the LAW, for pete's sake.

We have DEMOCRATICALLY VOTED ALL THOSE MPs in, and they HAVE BEEN GIVEN THE RIGHT TO GOVERN BY A MAJORITY OF CANADIAN VOTERS PERIOD!

The law IS the LAW!

Don In Calgary
said

This "stimulus package" is such a nice name for billions in welfare for poorly run arrogant company's and their overpaid employees. Eastern Canada holds the west hostage again, and I am so sick of feeling ashamed of them. I really want our own country.

Barb - Edmonton
said

I voted for the current government - not for the one the opposition parties are trying to force on us. For a party, who is soon to undergo a leadership change, to basically seize power under the guise of a coalition from the party who won the election in a fair public vote it is obscene!

If we don't give the government a chance to put forward an actual budget, I think we should return to the polls and then formerly apathetic Canadians who didn't take the time to vote last time can do their civic duty and give us a government chosen by the people to lead the people.

Joy
said

I for one is not a fan of Harper or any of the other leaders. We had two minority governments and during Harper's tenure there was always bickering and quarrelling going on with the leaders. They are a group of kids not getting their way. If the other leaders think by forming a coalition to improve the situation on Parliament Hill they are wrong, they had their chance for many years, people got fed up with the Liberals, do away with the government, let our GG represent Canada as she is head of state and let her ask for assistance from the people of Canada as currently there is nobody in any of the parties that can represent Canada right now. They are a bunch of immature boys. On another note, Jim Flaherty is acting like our former PM Martin. Get rid of him too as he's not giving anything back to the people of Canada who is losing their jobs right, left and centre. The people of Canada are the ones suffering, not the people in our so called Parliament, they're still making the big bucks.

KEEP IT UP
said

keep it up people and the west is gone then what ? nothing thats what you will have nothing...... we the west are holding this joke of a country above water if we go the rest of canada would be a 3rd world joke. we the west are PISSED. also were not Quebec we have the will and balls to bail on the joke that canada has become in the spand of 6 weeks you layton,dion and the other guy

jake, from Keats
said

The 3 political coalition parties shouldn't be able to 'lead' Canada without the approval of all canadian voters, certainly Dion, who had the poorest rating in the last election. Layton in one breath, we don't have a coalition agreement, and on the other hand he signed an agreement- so what's up? I'd say, quit the bickering, get on with much more needed issues such as the economy. Let the Conservatives present their budget, sooner than later, and then allow all parties to judge the gov't on that budget, rather making all of this latest arguing nothing but a political grab, 'through the back door'.

Brian -momtreal
said

The precedent set by creating a coalition government is that such a resolution to this current ridiculous situation ,will mean that we can forget about ever having any stable working minority Government in power and the possibility of an election every few months .
As the opposition jockeys for power, business are held hostage, the economy falters , the pensioners and investors worry about their portfolios and financial future .Also ,workers wonder if they will have a job next week.
THe opposition should go back to it role of opposing and coming up with some of their ideas rather than just grabing power

Mike from Windsor
said

Canadians voted for the current government two months ago. Yes it is a minority. Getting a majority with all the different parties is a longshot anyway. Voter turnout was low, that is the fault of every Canadian of voting age who did not vote. If we wanted Dion or Layton, one of them would be PM, and to side with a party whose reason for being is to break Canada up should make all Canadians sick no matter who your political affiliation is. The PM is doing the best he can given the global economic situation. Jack and Stephane, you lost. Live with it.

Brian, Republic of Alberta
said

Hey Simple Math, the Liberals and NDP together won less seats and less votes than the Conservatives. If you include the Bloc you are advocating something that is not the best for the country. If that's what you want then expect the majority of Westerners to advocate we separate.

It's clear coalition supporters are driven by hatred of Harper and have no clear understanding of what has happened the last few months. Harper won an increased mandate, the Liberals had their worse showing ever and decided to dump to their leader after the election. We also now know that Layton and Duceppe hatched their plot not long after the election (the budget update has nothing to do with what is happening) and we'll probably find out that Dion was part of it. Why would such a loser go into hiding for a week after losing only to come out and say he is sticking around for 7 months? If we can replace a duly elected PM on the fly I'm sure the Liberal party could do the same.

For those that say Harper lost the confidence of Parliament that is a crazy argument given that it is obvious that Dion, Layton, etc. never had any intentions of working with Harper to begin with. Throw Elizabeth May's power grab into the mix and one could make a case that the entire coalition leadership should be rounded up and charged with treason.

Sonia Rivera
said

Canadians went to the polls and Canadians made a very obvious decision on who we felt should run this country. Why have Canadians wasted their time voting if there plan now is to overthrow the government selected by the people.
The liberals have been stealing from tax payers pockets for years and yet they were given countless opportunity by the people to govern this country. They failed and the Canadian people felt that Harper was the one for the job the first time and again for the second time. If we wanted a Liberal or NDP party to run this country than I think it�s fair to say that we would have elected them but we did not so�do they not get the picture.
What would the Liberals do differently from the Conservatives? Probably start stealing more money. What would the NDP do? They have never been elected to run this country so what makes anyone think that they would have any clue on what to do now.

Pamela Oshawa Ontario
said

As I watched the news reports last evening showing the Parliamentary Debates of the afternoon I was stunned to see both Dion and Harper make complete fools of themselves. Imagine, we pay these individuals to represent all of the citizens of this glorious country and they behave in a manner that would better suit the patrons of the local beer hall at midnight Saturday. What does the world think of Canada today? Both Dion and Harpers' actions are an embarrasment to themselves and to our country.

Yonto
said

Don't forget, the Conservatives pulled non-confidence stunt in 2005. THEY also formed a coalition with the Reform party when the Convervative party was almost non -existant.Harper will play on the fears of Canadians and throw around words like "undemocratic in spirit", "separtists" and "not in the best interest of". We should be paying more attention to what he tried to do like taking away the right to strike for gov't employees and disabling other political parties ability to raise funds. He says there's no room for socialistic policy in times of economic turmoil when to a great degree that's what differentiates us from other democracies. His agenda is completely capitalistic and western oriented which is why Albertans are so upset. The "good ole boys" club has had their way long enough, especially in the province of Alberta. If he thinks he can take that attitude with the rest of the country, he's mistaken. Albertans are so wrapped up in thinking they're the end all and be all, they forget there's a whole other world beyond it's borders. They're just as guilty as when they were crying about all representation being in the east. It's not all about you Alberta.

gerry flin flon
said

I hope wacky jack and the two bandits from que.and the help of thec.b.c.,does not happen.

Edward from Kingston
said

There is only one way to resolve this. All four leaders immediately resign. We have a couple of independents sitting in the house currently, They become PM and deputy PM. All the parties name members of the cabinet based on percentage of votes recieved. Our new PM and Deputy PM create a cabinet based on the lists provided. This is the government for 18 months. At the end of that time there is a new election. Given the utter incompetance by all party members all MP's must resign and not run again (I will exempt our 2 independents from that unless they prove total incompetance).

By this method we will get governance that actually represents the will of the people and we will get rid of our incompetant leaders.

pl
said

Please oh please, make HARPER just go away.
The school yard bully who does not play well with others, why do the conservatives put up with him??

Carmen M.
said

I DID NOT vote to have Mr. Dion as prime minister. I DID NOT vote for Mr. Layton to run this country. The amazing thing is these two parties - Liberals and NDPs - DO NOT have enough seats between them to defeat the Conservations and can only do so with the "approval" of Mr. Duceppe. I would rather stand in line for another election that this configuration of power grasping gray haired men.

Mike Cipryk St. Catharines ON
said

When school yard bullies get caught they always whine about how they didn't do anything. To bad for Stevey boy and his band of school yard thugs. At least with a coalition gov't we will have a majority of Canadians represented in parliament.

Graham from Edmonton
said

To all the people that think this coalition is good, let's go over some issues. Stimulus is not as easy as writing a check and next day there are jobs or the markets all of a sudden spring back to life. We cannot throw money at the auto industry without knowing what is going to happen in Detroit. If the parent companies fail, then there is no saving their Canadian counterparts. So giving the industry billions of dollars could be well wasted. This money could be spent elsewhere to help develop new businesses and provide retraining. Canada wide the forestry industry is hurting, not just Quebec. Is the coalition going to provide the billions required for stimulus in this industry when the overall market will still not make companies profitable and end up closing plants anyway. We need another solution than panicking and throwing money at problems that cannot be fixed. If cap and trade or carbon taxes are implemented there will be a significant downturn in the Western economy (already happening). This in turn will mean the thousands of construction workers from all over Eastern Canada working in the West will be unemployed and be moving back to their respective ridings on Employment Insurance. We have to stimulate employment and create jobs but care and patience are the key. Deficit spending is not the answer. A coaltion of the Liberals, NDP and the Bloc won't work with 3 different agendas and 3 different ideologies. The Bloc is only commiting 18 months so they can get as much ransom as possible in a short time and then bail and the government will fall anyway. The 3 parties might hold a majority of seats collectively but were not voted for collectively.

Scottie 5000
said

Seriously, the most exciting moment in Canadian Politics with in the last 90yrs. BOOYA! BRING ON THE CHANGE!!!!

joan tanner
said

These other 3 parties only have selfish agenda in mind, they are not thinking the good of the country. Instead of uniting together to solve the economic crisses, they are causing disharmony and frictions among the Canadian people.

Chris
said

Supporters of the Coalition that suggest that the Coalition hold the majority of Canadians are wrong. You can not just put their numbers together and say they have the Majority because they never ran as one Party. So in Reality, 0% of the population voted for the coalition, 82% of the Populations votes were against the NDP, 74% of the total votes rejected Dion and the Liberals, and 90% of Canadian voters voted against the Bloc. These are the biggest losers in the Election. I hope there is an election before I have to witness the Bloc as the balance of power in our government. What do they have to offer for Canadians outside of Quebec?

Trevor Ennis
said

I voted for the Christian Heritage Party - but my vote did not help to form the Government.

While I don't want to see Stephan Dion as the Prime Minister, nor am I a liberal supporter - he has more support from the majority of MPs within Parliament at this point in time. As such, if the mandated minority government fails, the constitution allows a provisional government to take it's place. I wouldn't normally have a problem with that, but we are experiencing economic ruin - just talking about this. In a recession - the best thing for CANADA is MAJORITY Government.

Let's pro-rogue Parliament - let the Conservatives responde to the "recession" with January budget - and get the Liberals to find a new leader sooner - and then call an election if needed. I don't want to see a PM instituted by way of a Leadership contest that only select few delegate decide.

Simon Dumoulin
said

The Liberals will pay dearly for this travesty. Some folks are confusing what is legal with what is moral. This pact with the Separatists is immoral, although legal.

Stephane Dion will pay dearly for destroying the Liberal brand.

Candace
said

Why even bother voting anymore????? Apparently it doesn't matter how the Canadian public voted in October!!!!!!!!. I'll stay home for the next election.

Bill
said

Honestly, so called "Westeners" (i.e. most of whom migrated west from Ontario in the last 30 years) are the noisiest bunch of complainers going. They're worse than the separatists. They complain about the lack of democracy yet 60% of the population (and MP's) are from central Canada. That's how democracy works. It's no different in the US (power is where the people are). If Canada is today such a Banana Republic, it's thanks to the Prime Banana Stephen Harper. Let Western Canada send a reasonable man to be leader of the Conservatives and then we can all talk turkey. Send in Preston Manning and flush that obstructive, stubborn demagogue Harper down to Texas, the real country he loves. Everyone was afraid of Preston and the Reform party but now that Harper is in, we'll gladly and cheerfully take Preston. Central Canada would welcome Preston as a darling! At least Preston was tempered and used reason: not attacks and distortions. SEND PRESTON with a crook to remove Harper! Please!!!

Jan, Ontario
said

TO Joe from Ottawa.

Why should a government consult with the opposition? They are the government (and we elected them) The taxpayer only started paying $1.95 a vote in 2003 -five years ago under a liberal govt. It is not sacrosanct. When it was brought in, it stopped the incentive for the parties to raise their own money from supporters.

Peter
said

I think the whole bunch of them are a disgrace and an embarassment. While the country is crying for help, Harper tried to play silly politics, and his bluff has been called. Dion, who just weeks ago (the choice of 26% of Canadians)was tossed by his party as a poor leader, but now is about to become our prime minister. Gilles Duceppe is laughing at them all and loving the disarray they have created and Jack Layton will do his very best to see that employers are driven from our country and take their jobs with them. For the first time in my life, I'm ashamed to be a Canadian.

Nique in Alberta
said

Do the people posting these comments even know what 'Minority Government' means?

Conservatives forget that only 37% of Canada voted for a conservative government; the remaining 63% of Canadians did NOT vote for Harper.

Meaning, the MAJORITY of Canadians DID NOT vote for Harper! Bring on the coalition!

You got along for 2 years, you can do it again
said

The unions are supporting this coalition because they think the NDP are going to give them what they want. I realize auto workers are having a tough time right now, but so are many Canadians. Those involved in softwood lumber and livestock producers have been hurting for 5 years, is the coalition going to recognize their needs, or do only union workers deserve help. During the election when there were rumors of a coalition the support for those involved waned. I remember Jack Layton saying that he was running to be prime minister and I believed him to be a man of integrity and honesty. I believe that had Canadians thought there would be a coalition they would have voted in a majority Conservative Government. Canadians wanted a minority government because in the last 2 years we have had a fairly good run. The conservatives were held in check and had to provide good government and the spend like there's no tommorow NDPs and Liberals were kept from doing just that. Canadians made it plain that the last thing they wanted was Stephen Dionne as PM, and with all the talk of ousting him I thought the liberal party felt the same way. Stephen Dionne is to Canada what George Bush is to the United States right now. Boot him out, get a real leader(you have 3 very good possibilities) and come back and beat the conservatives with good policies and great ideas. Don't destroy your whole party on this power hungry little man who lost you the election. PS The liberals and the NDP might want to see if Daniel Webster has any living relatives if they sign this deal with the Duceppe.

Wendy - a Proud CANADIAN
said

I am extremely concerned that should this coalition government come to fruition, we leave ourselves in an extremely vulnerable position with a weak leader (Dion, who resoundingly lost the support of the people during the last election) and at the mercy of a party that in essence does not even want to be a part of Canada (Bloc).
This entire notion is unbelievable and completely ridiculous especially given these economic times. Any ruling party needs adequate time to constructively react to the economic crisis in order to have an effective solution. I strongly feel the Conservative party should be given the opportunity to present its budget and then the people can have a full understanding on where they stand and where to take the country after that time. Ultimately, I trust that the Governor General's office will do what is right and just for Canada, remaining focused on what is best for the entire country, not just what individuals in power wish to have. I also am hopeful that members and leaders of the opposition will truly see the negative impact this entire fiasco is having on both the internal and external stability of our wonderful country of Canada, and cease their attempt to form a coalition.

Finally, a note to all CANADIANS: it is fundamental that we stand up united to fight the 'coalition', if for no other reason that the Bloc does NOT want to be a part of Canada, so what would make anyone think they will do what is right for Canadians?

Please stop the craziness.

Rick in Calgary
said

Here is an interesting scenario that has not been commented on. Stephan Harper can go to the GG and ask her to prorogue the parliament until January. He can ask for her answer by Saturday. If she refuses the PM, the PM can go to the Queen and ask to have the GG fired and appoint a new GG that is sympathetic to the Conservatives position. The PM can than ask for a new election. This is also legal and has been done before. So for all of you who think that the coalition has won; the game is just starting to be played.

Warmest Regards.

Barb, Sydney NS
said

Please stop this insanity. While I certainly don't agree with everything the Conservatives under Harper have done, I feel emphatically that this Coalition would be a disaster for Canada's future. We need unity, not division, particularly now in these incredibly unsettled and difficult times.

Al Murphy, Fergus, ON
said

The Conservative Party selected Stephen Harper as its leader and then created an image of him for Canadians to "buy into". Unfortunately some did. But then the real Stephen Harper stood up!
Fast forward to four months ago. Again the Conservative Party tried �an image make-over� presenting the new "warm and fuzzy" Stephen Harper, someone you could trust - 45 days later the real Stephen Harper stood up! His arrogant, mean-spirited, bullying tactics have now thrown Canada into a political crisis. Instead of acting as a leader for Canadians, guiding them and the country through the current economic crisis, he chose not to, taking, instead, another opportunity to once again "stick it" to the opposition parties. However, this time it has back-fired. The leaders of the opposition parties have chosen to stand up to the bully in the playground.

I would prefer to have a coalition government in power spending its time and energy working on the economic crisis rather than one that spends its time dreaming up attack ads - which no-one buys into anyway! And let's face it - their "image-making" efforts failed dismally! Perhaps next time and hopefully it will be soon, they will choose a leader who constantly doesn�t require an "image make-over".

Last Thursday, Mr. Harper gambled and his bluff was called.

The great majority of Canadians gave the opposition a job, to provide an effective counterpoint to the Government. Mr. Harper has not allowed the opposition to play this role, not in policy making and not in the House. This coalition may not be ideal, but it is democratic, legitimate and likely the only way forward at this point. Thank Mr. Harper for that.

Rob Alberta
said

Hi again

I just heard a radio program while driving home for lunch, and one Liberal fellow phoned in "insiting that we Conservative Canadians do not understand the political system, and that what the coalition is doing is a permissable (Constitutional) part of the democratic process." I just want to say, that to the contrary, we understand it all too well. These Liberals touting this argument are the ones that have wrong, because they have a misunderstanding about what is legal, and what is morally right. The Coalitions move may be legal, but it certainly isn't right. In fact it is an abomination, and travesty, lacking the very basics of integrity of any political leadership. What a shamefull example these three men are! They ought to be recalled on their ellected mandate, and others more mature capable put in their place.

stats man
said

"Cliff Scott
I'm intrigued with how the Angus Reid polling group came up with their figures which shows a majority in favour of this Coalition. Everything I've seen on internet sites indicates at least 60%(often more) opposed to teh coalition idea."

Every internet poll has a disclaimer that it is unscientific because a)1 person can vote thousands of times with a Bot program. b) people that feel that something is wrong are far more likely to vote in an online poll than somebody who thinks that everything is ok c) online polls are statistically skewed towards specific demographic groups d) online polls can be skewed by one party being more aware e.g. Con headquarters finds a poll and sends e-mails to all party members to vote while other parties may not send out an e-mail to THEIR supporters. Hence, results are skewed towards one group.

Combine this with the fact the Conservatives are encouraging their supporters to pull exactly these kind of skewing tactics and you have your answer. Example?The G+M poll showed a 52-48 advantage for the coalition after 10,000 votes and then a 60-40 advantage for the Conservatives after 15,000 votes with virtually every one of the marginal 5,000 voted going Conservative. This is a STATISTICAL IMPOSSIBILTY and indicates deliberate manipulation of the poll.

A scientific poll (like Angus Reid's) consults people randomly across various cross sections of socity and notes the response of the random interviewee rather than inviting a biased sample. Strict rules for sampling apply.

Andrew
said

This has absolutely nothing to do with a "stimulus package". It has everything to do with Dion's ego, and Layton's and Duceipts lust for power.

Congratulations Mr. Dion you have successfully re-ignited the seperatist movement; that is your legacy now. You should be proud.

Alice , Toronto, Ontario
said

Come on let Harper do his job!!I oppose "Coalition "
We need to give the present goverment more time.Another election is a waste of huge money & at the present time we need to care about every bit of them. Why can Canada be like the USA that our goverment will stay in power for full 4 years?

jamie from parry Sound Ontario
said

I have never voted in my life, primarily because I firmly believe that all politicians are corrupt and self serving in some manner.

When I was growing up I had Liberal inclinations. I felt at that time that they were the best party for Canada (I'm sure that teachers in school had a lot to do with that)

After growing up and travelling most of Canada and the world several times over, I have leaned towards the PC. Primarily because of what has been accomplished in Alberta and I feel that province could really give the rest of Canada few few well needed pointers.

What is going on now is BS. Stephen Harper did not get a majority, but he did get more votes then the other parties. People did not vote for a coalition. If the liberals want to put Dion in power then he should have been voted into power ... last we heard this guy was resigning with no support or confidence from his own party. Amazing how fast things change.

To let the Bloc support this coalition is also wrong. This is a SEPERATIST party!!! They don't believe in a united Canada, we should not be allowing them to topple the government. I wonder what concesions are being made to the Bloc in return for thier support.

This coalition does not care about the welfare of Canadianbs or the country itself. This isn't about the economy (which regardless of what some say... canada is doing fine with no immediate need for intervention on behalf of the government)

If anything should happen, it should be the people going back to the polls. If that happens I will definately vote for the first time in my life... for the Conservative. Im sure a majority will ensue. Were sick of this!

JK London Ontario
said

They couldn't even agree to speak as a coalition. Jack Layton asked for time on his own. What a shower.

Patrick Pearl Nova Scotia
said

We as a Country voted and the Conservatives won ...that is a fair and democratic process .
Are we going to really allow these theiving Liberals from the past who stole from our pockets with the whole scandal that caused the country to oust the liberals from power in the first place to steal our democracy.
We all know that this is legal, BUT it is immoral as no one wants the block to run the Country,even a little. Not even the Liberals want Dione to run their party ,not to mention the country. Then to make things worse they say that they are doing this as the conservatives have no plans for the future well they are making plans and announcing them as fact, when the people being named as part of the plan are coming forward and denying they were even asked and others were part of the original Liberal party ousted.
So now the world sees a Canada that is at each others throats and really unprepared for the future. Were as the Conservatives just have a plan that the coallition do not want.
If it were about the country they would have brought forward this stimulous package months ago and given Canadians the chance to vote on it,they are attempting to bribe us with money we do not have they don't care if it hurts our econamy they won't be in power for ever and it will be someone elses problem. Stephane Dion could not win the vote so now he is scheming with a party that would not be happier then to see this Country fail the BQ.
when the Block should NEVER have that right to begin with as they are a provincial party not Federal. If we as the people do not stand for our democracy who will.

Kevin, Toronto
said

How can Jeff from the Stock and other people keep proclaiming this uniformed belief that "Harper won the job of prime minister and is now being improperly replaced". Don't they listen to people who know how the government works who explain it to them that the Prime Minister is the person who has the majority of support from the MPs of all parties in the House of Commons, not just the leader of the one party one who got the most MPs elected in the election? Learn how government works.

patricia cook
said

Mr harper has brought the trouble upon himself. he has wasted the Taxpayer's money for a few extra votes, and the power has gone to his head. The promise of the Election was to work with all parties to straighten out the Economy. yet his first action was to try and damage the opposition. with a nasty bill, always trying to show he is above everyone else and can do as he likes.
Canadians themselves have not helped the situation, they can't cry about anything, when they couldn't step to the polls to vote. Too busy with thw American Elections.
i would like the Coalition to give the present government one more oppotunity to presentt a decent bill and correct their mistake.

Morag, Port Colborne
said

I am always amazed that people can forget so quickly. It's only a few short years since Paul Martin's government was in trouble, and Stephen Harper was the one suggesting a coalition government!
Perhaps when our government is actually elected by a MAJORITY of Canadians, Canada will truly become a democratic country. In the meantime, let's not waste another 300 million dollars on a pointless election.

Dcline
said

To all who would try to hijack democracy, I DARE YOU.

The coalition should pay dearly for this shameful act.

How stupid do you think Canadians are, to allow such a thing.

So they have Canadians best interest at heart. Than do the right thing!

Deal with the economic calamity and quite the charade.

Newfie in Ontario
said

DANNY WILLIAMS FOR PRIME MINISTER!!!
Let him at those 3 stooges and we'll see how they like it.
Harper is a bully but I really really don't want Dion as PM.
We need a conservative government, without Harper as the main guy.

Kelly Crump
said

I don't understand how people can trust a coalition! you voted for that party NDP cause you didn't like the others. Liberal they were the best choice for you. Bloc in Quebec. Not together I bet they wouldn't have got as many votes if they had run as a coalition. Hope we have a vote we'll find out for sure! The three should run as a coalition. I think Harper is doing the right thing I pay less taxes Reduced GST. Why should parties get tax money. They get money when they get elected and a darn good wage.

David W. Love
said

To: �Jeff from the Stock�
It seems you have forgotten � or never learned � that Her Excellency the Governor General is the appointed representative of our Sovereign, Queen Elizabeth II. Her Majesty has more knowledge and experience in these matters than Harper, Dion, Layton and Duceppe combined.
The decisions to come are precisely those that are assigned by our constitution to the Sovereign and, in her absence, the office of the Governor General.
Your ignorance of and dislike for this situation don�t change how our 141 year-old government works.

Ken of Mitchell, Manitoba
said

Lets go vote again and 'basta'! I know of several people who used to vote NDP or Liberal but will now vote Conservative after the formation of this ridiculous coalition. 'Betrayers of the century' is what Layton and Dion should be labelled. They should never again be able to put their names on any election ballots in this country. I suggest they be declared 'persona no grata of the year'!

Jack in BC
said

Since the coalition is getting to pick the PM, I think they should give me the job. People like me a hell of a lot more than Dion. It doesn't matter that I wasn't elected b/c we aren't really going by those election results anyhow are we. Sounds ridiculous that an unelected, unknown should be PM? Does it sound more ridiculous than the PM being someone who was kicked out by his own party?
If Monday's confidence motion happens, please all the MPs vote as your consituents would want you to, not along party lines. I know there are many Liberals and NDP and probably even Bloc MPs who are having just as much trouble stomaching this coalition government. Vote from the heart!

Egons Lasis, Ajax, ON
said

Here's hoping that Gov.-Gen. Michaelle Jean sees the coalition for what it is: a power grab that goes against all principles of parliamentary democracy. Let me make one prediction: the next time we go to the polls will see the Harper Conservatives re-elected with an un-precedented majority.

A Guenther - Burnaby
said

I've seen more than one person comment on the CTV poll vs. Angus Reid and the difference in percentages between them.
First off, CTV clearly says that theirs is not a scientific poll but only represents the opinions of those that have visited the site and who have cared to vote. Considering the numbers of PC 'professional' bloggers that have inundated the boards here over the last few days then it's hardly a surprise that it would show Harper as being ahead.
On the other hand, the well respected Angus Reid poll is a scientific poll that has been around for many years and is accurate to within 3.1%.

Hannah from Montreal
said

Hmm...why don't we have another election and vote Stephen Harper in again, perhaps with a majority this time. Or, we could let the coalition take power and watch our country fall apart.

Maybe we should kick them all out of office and replace them with 5-year-olds who would run this country better than they ever could.

Seriously, these politicians need to stop looking for power and start caring about Canada. The last thing we need right now is an unstable government.

Lara
said

I completely support the coalition and frankly find the prospect of a coalition government inspiring and exciting. Not only is such a coalition legal, constitutional, democratic, and totally within the rules of our parliamentary system but also comes closest to representing the majority of voters in the last election. Whatever Harper and other members of his party and some Canadians may think, 38% of voters does not constitute a majority and a parliamentary system is not the rule of one person or even of a few people in the House. The Conservatives had the right and opportunity to run the country but could only do so by sharing some concern for the needs represented by ALL the members of parliament (for whom we voted). They have, however, showed themselves incapable of representing the needs of Canadians, whereas the other members of parliament are willing to co-operate. It will be very nice to see our representatives (at least the majority of them) making a concerted effort to work together for a change. And for once, it will not be embarrassing to talk about Canadian politics to other Canadians or to family and friends abroad. Someone or law needs to discipline Harper for bullying others and throwing temper tantrums when he doesn�t get his way. Delaying the vote and functioning of the government, especially at a time of economic crisis, only shows how self-interested Harper is. He can�t be allowed to hold the country hostage because he is not getting his way.

David
said

Harper is desperate to hang on to his job. I just wish he cared as much about Canadians jobs as he does his own.

JW
said

I'm all for another election, as it does not have to be as expensive as the last one. We really don't need all those campaign signs and speeches and what not. The GG should agree to a snap election, even if the liberals don't have a new leader. Thats there fault for dumping Dion and then pulling this stunt before they had a chance to get really organized. Send everyone back t the polls in a month. All the losers can get back on the ticket. They could just order the old ballots be reprinted. We could resolve this in three weeks.

As I said before, nothing bad can be said of Harper. For petes sake, he hasn't been given a chance to table a budget. I agree with reducing federal funding for parties. In fact a party should only get federal funding if they can field a candidate in every riding. That rules out the Greens, the Bloc, and any other low life party who can't represent all of Canada.

It seems more posts are about dislike for Harper, than Harper actually doing a bad job. so much for the liberals cancelling the GST, at least Harper reduced it. No one can point out three really bad things Harper has done for Canada. Its just a big snow job on the part of the other 3 parties.

Mark from ottawa
said

Drinking game tonight:
Take a swill every time Harper uses any version of the term "separate".

Use only 0.5% beer and I bet you're drunk 5 minutes in.

Joe Losier,Sussex,N.B.
said

I cannot believe that my vote has been ignored by all in the parliment. What is the point of my vote if it won't be accepted for what it is, my choice for representation. I will never again waste my time at a polling booth. There is now a clear reason why voter turnout is low at elections.

Margaret Andre of Abbotsford
said

Canadians showed their preference when the Conservatives won the election. Stephen Harper is the rightful Prime Minister. He is not at fault for the world-wide economic downturn but is a deep thinking, wise and dedicated leader with a degree in Economics. He and his party are facing the financial problem in a mature, level headed manner. Jack Leyton, Stefan Dion and Gilles Duceppe are an unlikely trio to make a successful Coalition Government. The people of Canada have shown their lack of faith in the Liberal leader, Stefan Dion. There has been a planned "gang up". It would not be long before back-stabbing took place in the Coalition Camp. Leave the Torries under Stephen Harper at the helm. They are our best choice and our only hope.

Tanya
said

Dion is saying he's doing what the people are asking for. I don't remember being asked...do you??? I thought when you vote it is for the person you feel is most suitable for the Prime Misinster position......I don't remember hearing that Dion was the peoples top choice do you??? Except it Dion......you were not the man for the job!!!!

Kim from Brampton
said

I called my Liberal MP's office yesterday and registered my extreme displeasure that a party claiming to be 'Canada's National Party' would get into bed with the separatists. I am appalled and disgusted that the very people who want to destroy my country will hold the balance of power in a so-called coalition. I did not vote for this. I told the constituency staffer that I would vigourously, enthusiastically and tirelessly campaign for the Conservative candidate in the next election to ensure that this Liberal MP was defeated. I marched in the 1995 Referendum Rally in Toronto to speak up for my country and now I will do it again this Saturday. I possibly could have lived a democratically elected coalition of liberals and ndpers - but I CANNOT stomach the thought of a smug Gilles Duceppe collecting another $1.5 billion of our money to finance his separtist agenda. Please Your Excellency allow for the Parliament to be prorogued so that everyone can calm down and let cooler heads prevail. Otherwise, call an election - $300 million is a small price to pay to save this wonderful country.

John from Saskatoon
said

Popular vote means nothing in this country. We do not have proportional representation. We form governments by party seat count. That means the consevatives form the govt. That is what people voted for. Spin it however you want that's a fact. Anyone who thinks a coalition of these parties to form govt.is what Canadians voted for has their head in the sand.

Doug Gwynne
said

Better a party you know but may not agree with, than a conspiracy that has worked towards defeating the government in power.
I would far prefer to go back to the ballot and live by that rather than a conspiracy which includes a localized federal party( if the BQ says they represent the best for all Canadian-let them run candidates in all ridings-we know how likely that is!)
votes count, not conspiracy!

Linda Gellatly
said

The opposition are behaving like children and sticking their fingers in their ears and saying "I don't hear you - I have no confidence in you."

I would like to see reporters get their hands on information that shows just how much MPs like Jack Layton are spending on travel and hospitality. Who spends the mostand why? Let's see how much they are hiding when it comes to their expenses. They must be willing to tighten their belts as much as their constituents are having to.

Shame on MPs from all parties for not working together (as separate parties)to resolve problems. They would be best to have the planned meetings with the provinces, the investment and auto industries and other concerned parties as the Prime Minister has planned so our tax dollars are realistically being spent and not squandered.

Another election will not help if they will not be listening to the world outside of their childish little cliques.

Ferdie Roxas- Victoria,BC
said

I think it would be a big mistake to put Stephan Dion to be PM. It was obvious that he wasn't Canada's favorite judging from the last voting we had. How can this happen to the Canadian people when we voted the Conservatives in, although it is a minority government, the people of Canada have spoken and we should stick to that. Could the coalition not have waited till we ahve settled slightly economically and politically. Thisis just going to cause more unrest in the markets which we ccan definitely see from the "huge" ud and down swings(mainly down). I just can't believe how immature our governments are ! They should be ashamed to what they are putting the country thru. Isn't it bad enought that we are going thru this economic turmoil and our government is casing more turmoil which could send us further into a downward spiral!! I say get back to office and do your jobs !! And get along while your at it, they look so silly bickering at one another on national tv and it's not productive to the country and not fair to the people that pay their wages! Let's stand up and let them know what we think and let's get our country back on track. We have a long road ahead of us folks,a very long road.

phil blackmore
said

Many comments refer to the coalition MP's as "losers" when, in fact, they WON their seats just like every other MP in the house.

MAX WEDGE
said

Frankly, very few of the views expressed here are less than self serving - they are trying to rationalize the outcome they desire - irrespective of law, convention or justice.

True, technically we vote for MPs, not the PM, but..

It is also true that many voted based on support for a party or a leader, regardless of their local candidate.

It is also true that many voted strategically - to prevent a majority, divide the left, or preserve a minority.

This understood, it is simply dishonest to say that the present makeup of parliament definitively represents the wishes of the people.

It is an outcome based on assumptions of the electorate - based in part on claims - promises - by certain parties that they WOULD NOT form a coalition.

Nobody, including the GG, can claim to know what the people would chose IF WE HAD KNOWN this coalition was a serious and imminent possibility.

Because of this, more than any other reason, the people should not have this imposed upon them without a say - IN AN ELECTION.

If the leaders of the coalition believe this arrangement is acceptable to us, let them put it before us.

This is a responsibility that supercedes any convention, tradition or technicality.

mm
said

Almost a million more Canadians voted for the Liberals and the NDP than the Conservatives.A coalition government is both democratic and legitimate. The Conservatives have failed to address the economic crisis.
The Harper government did not provide a plan to stimulate the faltering economy in last week's fall economic update. Instead they used the crisis to attack the democratic process, violate the rights of public servants to bargain collectively, and end pay equity.

sara
said

Just a few facts on the subject:

Fact: Canada has a parliamentary system of government.

FACT: In Canada, elections don't elect governments. We vote for MPs and therefore we elect a parliament that forms a government. It can be a majority or a minority government depending on the number of SEATS won.

FACT: Canadian's did not vote for Mr. Harper, they voted for THEIR MPs in THEIR RIDINGS.

FACT: It is not undemocratic for those elected MPs to break the government if they can form a majority in the house and collectively agree and believe that the current government or collection of MPs are not making sound decisions that reflect Canadian values such as eliminating subsidies for political parties that support a fair democracy in Canada envied by countries from all over the world.

FACT: The purpose of subsidies for political parties is to assist in the fairness of democracy which help to successfuly eliminate the influence of lobby groups/ companies/ interest groups from unfairly controlling public policy as a result of their financial support of different political organizations. It is a way of having fair democracy in Canada.

FACT: Elections Canada confirms that the conservatives won only 37% of the popular vote.

FACT: Only 59.1% of Canadians actually voted. The conservatives won the vote of 5,205,334, out of 23,401,064 registered electors or 22.24%.

phil blackmore
said

FACTS:

- Every one of the MP's involved in the coalition was elected, including those of the BLOC.
- Informed voters know that minority governments and coalitions are part of our electoral system.

CONCLUSION:

- Emotional reactions and partisan opinions aside, there is no good reason to deny the coalition an opportunity to form a stable, 'elected' government.

Bryce - Ontario
said

While the Conservatives may not have the majority of the seats neither do any of the other 3 parties. What the Conservatives do have is the majority of the minorities.

Harper won a minority government. He has to prove he has the confidence of outside party member to maintain control of the House. If he does not have that confidence then an election is called. This is Canada�we do not endorse coup-de-tats. Have another election, this may be a big waste of money but it will almost certainly bring on a majority government.

Just remember the only group that has nothing to lose in this is the BLOC, the party that holds the balance of power�the party that does not want any ministers n cabinet�the party that wishes to separate from Canada.

Be careful what you wish for.

Carlos Pascual,Pictou ns
said

Harper has used this same tactics in the past without success, and now ,it is all conspiracy,coup d�tat etc.
Grow up and accept the obvious.If you are worried about having a job ,don�t worry:join the unemployed

Deb VI
said

As usual Layton wants his cake and eat it too. He wants to form a coalition but wants air time on his own. I cannot imagine anyone voting for someone as wishy washy as that man is.

Stefan in Barrie
said

Mr. Harper is driving a wedge between Eastern and Western Canada. The Conservative party used to be a great national party. Will Quebecers ever vote Conservative again? I doubt it. It will take a long time to undo the mistrust and anger the Prime Minister has created. The Conservative party needs a new leader ASAP.

Bob in Edmonton
said

Forget the Governor General, talk to Queen Elizabeth II. She'll do the right thing.

Tony
said

Well although i did not vote for a coalition. I also did not vote for the conservatives either. In my opinion a coalition would be infinitely better than any conservative led government. Canadians sure do have a short memory. The last economic crisis this country really felt was when Brian Mulroney was in power. Being a westerner i felt betrayed when the alliance party joined the Conservatives. Had i known that would happen i would have been a liberal supporter instead of an alliance supporter. Anyway i digress. This conservative party is full of Liars and incompetent members. A coalition would be just what us as canadian's need right now. A parliament that has the majority of its members working towards a single goal. That goal is to get us threw this economic crisis. I dont see what the problem is here. The bloc and liberals and ndp can further all canadians goals of a stable economy without compromising their own party's ideals. Just because something might be good for Quebec does not mean that it is bad for the rest of Canada. In closing we have only ourself's to blame for voting in a party that has never in my lifetime been good for or done good for this country.

Quebec foreigners should not run Canada
said

The reactions to my statement are baffling. I don't have to tell supporters of the Bloc to get in or out. Their whole purpose is to separate. In purpose and in intent they are foreigners to Canadians.

Ron
said

Reading some of the comments bellow it is easy to say that all the people saying we don't want harper are blind!! WE as canadians VOTED him in and now a bunch of sore losers want to over throw the government?? last time i check that was treason and punishable by death!! Just becasue the liberals, the ndp and the bloc are all cry babies they should not be trying to over throw the people that we as a nation elected!!

Richard in LaSalle, QC
said

People who love Canada must write to their MPs and tell them how disgusted they are that the coalition has put us at the mercy of the separatist Bloc.

Wayne Solberg
said

The proposed new government is part of our governing policy. Just because it has not been done offically in over 80 years does not mean it is not law full. I personally am glad that the opposition parties have finally got together to do what is the best for all Canadians. As far as I am concerned the best legislation has been passed by governments that have not had a majority. I think you have to look at the spin that Harper has put forward that he is scared of what he started. I think it is time that the new alternative will get a chance to show what it can and will do. You have to remember that this type of government works in a lot of countries.

Marianne
said

The members of the Opposition are not 'losers'. Each and every one of them won their seat fair and square in the last election. Their job in Parliament is to be part of the whole team that negotiates the laws and rules we all have to live by. Loud and raucous is how you hammer out agreements that work for everyone. It may not look pretty, or even orderly, but it is how you get the best work done.

The system breaks down when one person or a clique of people refuse to negotiate openly and push their own agendas through with threats, misinformation and hiding from the press behind an office.

Proroguing the session is a cowardly act; calling another election is like taking your hands off the steering wheel in a high speed race.

Someone has to get off his high horse and fulfill the requirements of the office he was happy enough to take on three years ago. And if he can't, then we need a coalition of members who 'won' seats in the House to guide the country until everyone's head stops spinning.

John from Saskatoon
said

People, enough of the comments about the combined popular support of the Liberals & NDP constituting a majority. These are two distinct parties with different policies. The people who voted for one of these parties didn't vote for the other because they don't agree with their policies. I would dare say there are alot of Liberal supporters who would never support the NDP and vise versa. If people are so sure that a majority of voters would chose this option put it to us in an election. Then we'll know for sure. Until then the 44% combined popular vote means nothing.

Darryl Nelson Victoria BC
said

The only fair way to solve this issue is to call an immediate election, no campaign, no electioneering, no crap. Just a vote on who Canadians want to govern their country. Stephan Dion is a friggin idiot who no one wants as a Prime Minister and if the Liberals, NDP, and the block think they can hijack our country with no mandate fom the people of Canada, they are seriously mistaken. This whole situation is a disaster for Canada and continuing along this path will lead to a total collapse of our country and economy. Wake up people, this is crazy!!!!

Artem Biziaev, Edmonton
said

I am only 15, but I can simply tell that what is going on here is absolutely absurd. If the Bloc, NDP, and Liberals really cared for the same goal, then this trinity would have been formed long ago. They are just upset that they didn't win the vote, and now they are retaliating because they didn't get what they want.

This is what will happen:

If the coalition overthrows the Conservatives, the 3 parties will then split up, simply because their interests don't match up past knocking down Harper.
Canada will plunge into economic termoil because even if the people were more in favor of the coalition, they will not be in terms of individual parties.

When I heard about this, I was stunned by the lack of immaturity of Canada's government.

This whole situation must instantly be resolved, the coalition must simply be crushed.

Joe - Vancouver
said

We are facing the biggest economic crisis in history and our politicians are acting like spoiled children. If Barack Obama can work with his former rivals, why can't the politicians in Ottawa ? Why can't we have a economic summit with all political parties present and hammer out a deal to save the economy of Canada. Mr. Harper should have realized that he has a MINORITY government and on such an important issue as the economy, he should have worked together with the other parties and put partisan politics aside. Instead his ego took the best of him and he will pay the price for this mistake.

Richard from Montreal
said

How can you blame Harper for a weak Canadian/US economy?

Canada is a great country but in the end we depend on the US for everything. A coalition government will not change anything. We need to strap ourselves in and hang on because we have a bumpy road ahead.

Clay
said

I wonder why it was ok to sign a document allying the Conservative Party under Harper with the Bloc in 2004, and now someone else other than Harper does it and it is now undemocratic?

Rick Tremblay
said

First and foremost, please stop all the untruths, about the coalition and the vote.
You vote for your MP , not a party, no the leader of said party.
Secondly, what the Liberals, and the New Democrats are doing is permissible under the laws our country.
Don't like it, too bad.
But if saner heads are going to prevail, a few things need to happen:
Both Harper and Flaherty, must hand in their resignations;
After this has been done both Dion and Layton, will stand up on the HOC and tell everyone that they are shelving this coalition at this time.
Now with Harper, Flaherty, and in a few months Dion gone, life on the Hill and in Canada will be a happier place.
We can then have the HOC working for us instead of playing like,..
I was going to say say like a bunch of little kids, but that would be demeaning to the kids.

RLW
said

So the silver fox gets the keys to the hen house ?

Brian Nelson Langley
said

For you coalition supporters. Have you not given any thought to the fact that the Liberals and NDP were soundly defeated in English Canada. While this normally would only provoke concern to a small number of bigots. The fact is that English Canada under the coalition would not only be Governed by those for whom they voted against but supported in this by avowed seperatists. The possibility of lengthy protracted division with the Bloc actually being the dividing wedge must have seperatists truly believing there is a Santa Claus after all.

Fred in Ottawa
said

I hope that the current crazy federal political situation finally brings about electoral reform.
This is the fault of our historically flawed "first-past-the-post" system resulting in politicians who are used to running Canada with undeserved majority governements in the House, and then can't make things work when they don't, until the next election...
Seriously, enough with "minority governments" acting like they have a majority (tories), or governments with a majority of seats despite receiving less than 51% of votes (grits)!
Too bad Ontarians missed their chance to spearhead electoral change in the country during our last provincial elections.
Governments should always represent a majority of the electorate, and if a coalition is required to be formed, then so be it!
Tories will have to learn to put some water in their wine, if they ever hope to actually have a majority, or they will have to stop acting so high and mighty. Bullies may be able to push their way around, but they eventually eat humble pie too. Just like the Grits got their just desserts a few years ago...
(FYI, I voted for neither or the NDP in the last few elections)
Tories and Grits are equally hypocrites, both have tried to make pacts with the Bloc.
Wheeling and dealing, that is the true nature of democracy, not single party majority, Sorry Stephen, looks like democracy caught up to you this time!
Again it is time for a major change in how our votes are counted. Sure it would likely result in perpetual minorities, but this would force dialogue and comprise between the parties in governement and reflect the true mosaic that is Canada! Democracy is supposed to represent the electorate, not allow a minority to rule like a dictatorship until they get caught screwing up and are replaced by another minority dictatorship.

Melanie in TO
said

Let's all relax about the bloc a second and please don't fear them - let's not forget that they used to be the official opposition not so many years ago, back when the governernment was able to function properly! I think the Governor General should force the entire lot of them (liberals and conservatives alike) and force them to come up with a proper economic plan together. Lock them in a room for a week if need be. If they can't play nice, all of the party leaders should be replaced. Enough of this childish petulance. The Canadian people have once again elected a minority government because it better represents the ideals and values of us all. They should be working together to come up with a solution that suits everyone's needs. They need to bring what is the best from all of their views and present a united front. This means Harper needs to work with other parties and make sure his policies are representing the entire electorate not just those who voted for him. And the other parties need to try and work within the current government to have their ideas heard. We need to put aside party politics and heck politics altogether, and come together to find a solution to this economic crisis as a team. Bring all of our best ideas together. I challenge all of the party leaders do do that. It is what we elected and expected them to do.

Forget Canada
said

Forget Canada, what a joke we have become. I'm ashamed to call myself Canadian. All the political parties should be disbanded and this country to split up into it's regions. West, East and Quebec. Canada is lost to the rich and power hungry.

steve williams - Calgary/Ontario CA
said

Boo hoo we lost the election. Let's organize a coup and take over like some 3rd world country.

Dale - Edmonton
said

I was listening to a Political Science professor from Alberta on the radio on the way home last night and I've never heard so complete a disconnect from the Western Canadian reality. His claim that this crisis is strictly ideologically motivated and has no regional roots is perhaps the most ill-informed and irrational statement I've heard by an acedemic recently (and thats saying a lot).

While under our parliamentary system this Junta of three revolutionaries (and their four unelected puppet masters) is legal, from a Western Canadian perspective it is an immoral and oppressive attempt to punch down our hopes and aspirations of having an equal voice at the federal table.

This is no less than an open declaration that Eastern Canada will not tolerate or accept the West as an equal partner in Confederation. It is certainly no less than an attempted hammer blow to Canada as a nation as we see it here in the West.

This thumping of aspirations has been done WITHOUT EXCEPTION every time the West has dared to show aspirations to equality. Look back in history what happened to Diefenbaker, Clark and now Harper. Not to mention the vile National Energy Policy foisted upon us by the father of the princeling and future Liberal Party leader Justin Trudeau.

The similarities between those times and these are striking...and belated realization is dawning in the minds of Westerners. Our grandfathers and fathers grudgingly tolerated this in the name of a united Canada but the time has come to say NO MORE, YOU SHALL NOT DO THIS, THIS WILL NOT STAND!

Jaid in Toronto
said

What democracy is in the eyes of a citizen is a vote in the eyes of the politician.

Remember, our government is democratic until the vote comes in. After that, whoever is voted in, they have the power to do what they like.

Not happy? Keep in mind there is a law that allows citizens to pass their own law, it requires at least 66% of the Canadian population and has the ability to override a few laws.

Never read of this? It's because this is basically the one of many laws that has been rarely if ever used.

Rory McRandall
said

Other than the voters in his riding in Alberta, no one in Canada voted for Stephen Harper. We did not elect him to be Prime Minister, even those whose intention was that he should be.

We elected a parliament in which no party had a majority. Our political system requires that the government hold the confidence of parliament, and in a minority that includes the opposition. Harper does not hold that confidence.

That another group within parliament does command that confidence is the way our democracy was designed and the way it has worked since before Confederation, going back to Britain. This is democratic and it is a reflection of the will of the people.

The coalition may fail and they may fall. But right now they command the confidence of our elected parliament and as such they have the right to run the government. When and if they fall, the voters can render their judgement upon them.

Stephen Harper just doesn't like to lose. To avoid that he is willing to distort the way our system works, to cast libelous aspersions, to foment outrage amongst voters in the hopes that it will benefit him. As usual, he sees himself as bigger than the country.

Time to show him he's not.

Watchdog
said

This blog is filled with lies that are being spread by Harper and his ilk. Most of the people think that the Bloc is part of the Coalition. They are not, merely supporting it on non confidence votes. They think that the Bloc has veto powers. Anothjer lie. A lie by Harper in English only. He says the opposite in French. Bloggers should educate themselves before they open their mouths (fingers) and if you educate yourselves you would not vote for a party that does not care about you, only your vote. If you lose your job, too bad. Think about it

Don from NB
said

o well harper your days are done .Harper you have wasted our tax dollars ,and Canada's precious time . I think the 2% increase for ODSP was a joke and you don't realize how serious of a crises you put the people on disability in . You laugh at us while you play games with our money the money we need for our future's and our children . We have not had any sufficient increases on our cheque since 1993 you make me so angry . People work hard and you just sit on a pedestel playing famous .

Nat of Richmond, BC
said

I totally agree. The country has spoken as to who should lead. I used to vote for the liberals but the last election I voted for Conservatives because I think among all the candidates he has the most experience and the most capability to do his job. At our current economic situation, a move like this is a total disaster. Like if a party can just give up what they believe and join with someone they're fighting again, there's something wrong. I'm not saying there needs to be conflict all the time, but these two parties are very different and I think their motives currently are not healthy for this country.

From the Peg
said

Can someone tell me what good it will do going to the airwaves/TV if the decision has already been made by those "three stooges". It seems to me that we, the voters have no say anymore.

Ed
said

Put it to the people and call it what it is ...
Extortion by the bloc

let the new platforms be known and let the people of this country vote on those platforms, not the buying support programs the three stooges are attempting to do with printed money

Jeanne, Montreal
said

For the first time in ages, i am excited about Canadian politics. Politicians working together instead of slinging mud at each other. How refreshing is that?

Maybe we'll be able to move away from partisan bickering and work together, and achieve what is best for all Canadians.

I think many people in this province share my excitement.

I support the coalition.

G from O
said

Just remember that the cutback of party funding by the conservatives included themselves. Harper was ready to trim party expenses in his own party first. The Coalition is motivated by vengeance and self-interests irrespective as to how much they trumpet their concerns for "the economy".

Furthermore, the Coalition was in the making even before the fiscal statement had been made. Once made, the Coalition group lept on their opportunity and the agenda became public. Talk about the trust factor...I find the Coalition the wary group.

Carol Thorogood Paris on
said

I have just listened to a Conservative ad about Dion and "power" and the Separtists and received phone calls for donations to Conservative party. Who is power hungry here?
Our PM who is the leader of Canada is very interested in having total power. Not satisfied with a minority govt. he calls an election which backfired and did not give him the majority he wanted. Now he wants to prorogue parliament until end of January and tie everyone's hands and the economy of Canada.
As other countries are dealing with this global economy with stimulus packages and PLANS our Leader wants us to smuggly believe that we as a country are better off than any other country in the G20, I believe Flaherty said several times in his speech.

Now is the time for some leadership and ACtion for the people of Canada no matter who is governing. We're ALL in this together as Canadians and the world and the UN is calling for ALL governments to have economic policies in place and that includes our Prime Minister who in the economic update is making the plight of Canadians worse not better.

Lee Marcoux
said

Our goverment is acting like a bunch of children. This isn't a simple issue. The election just occured, the people voted for Harper,

quit horsing around and let the man do his darn job.

the whole world is in an economic crisis and if Canadians think that the wing nut Dion is going to do us justice, we might as well legalize pot and all live in daze!!!

Shame on the liberals and the NDP for being sore losers.

Laurie
said

No matter who you voted for, no one voted for this. This is not an NDP/Liberal coalition with support of the Bloc, without the Bloc they do not have enough seats to overtake the conservatives, so this is a coalition with the Bloc having a veto power, with the Bloc being the most important party and with the Bloc in charge of the country with a Dion puppet as PM. The Bloc is a party whose only concern is Quebec, which is fine, but its not a party that should have a veto or have this much power to control Canada.

And if these really are 3 separate parties still, what is this coalition about? How will it ever work if they are separate and have separate ideas/platforms? This should tell Canadians and the GG that this coalition is just a power grab for Dion and the opposition parties and will never be able to truly work together. Either call an election so Canada can vote on this coaltion, or they should stop this and get back to governing this country where all 4 parties should work together.

TOM
said

I'm so sick of people saying that "the majority didn't vote for Harper so this is ok." BS! The majority didn't vote for any of the other 3 sorry 4 leaders of the other parties to lead this country either. The only thing to do is call another election with only 2 parties to vote for, and if the Conservatives win by 1 single vote then the "other" party should pay for the election. Canada is turning into a joke.

Fraser
said

Has anyone really thought of why this has all come about?

Does anyone really think that Prime Minister Harper and his cabinet and elected MP's didn't know full well that their actions were going to cause a negative reaction and they did it with full knowledge of the consequences and did it anyway?3

Why is it that they still poked the stick at the opposition?

Could it be that no matter what the issues were (BTW the taxpayer gravy train was going to be ended for ALL parties) that the opposition parties had a plan of a "Coalition" [opps I mean Coup] all along and that the Harper government knew of it and provoked it to flush out the rats for all to see?

Interesting how the emotions have taken over and reason is left by the wayside.

If anyone thinks that another election to let the "Coalition" know that it is WE CANADIANS WHO DECIDE WHO OUR LEADERS ARE" is too "expensive" then maybe ask your veterans and those fighting in Afghanistan what they fought and are fighting for. Is the "price" too high for democracy? I think NOT.

I truly think there are a few Canadians that need to travel to appreciate what we have here and the rights that we so freely take for granted are to be cherished and not to be usurped by anyone including our fellow citizens.

I have never been so disgusted to be a Canadian citizen after these actions by a few because of an unbridled grasp for power.

This "Coalition" wasted yours and my tax dollars of the last election and there is more to come.

I will be protesting with many others and not because I am defending any one particular "governing body", I will protect my rights to CHOOSE FOR MYSELF that "governing body".

Lyall Dalman ,Chilliwack , BC
said

To say we are unhappy and angry is a understatement. Federally regarding the last election I was going to vote "green".Because the only thing I did not want was corruption/Liberals or Jack Layton and associates.
Politically I am a small C concervative.
Bleakly I now look at all of the above with a bunch of separatists thrown in for good measure.We are going to be ruled by "Quebecers with their collective fingers in the pot". Maybe as a "Westerner"it's time to listen to the western separationists if only to put Western Interests and Dollars back on the table of consideration.

maube4
said

Why would we as canadians want to have our votes rejected? This coalition is nothing but a bunch of sore losers who can't accept defeat. While the world is trying to come up with ways to fix the economy, these 3 losers are focusing on the wrong issue. The GG should throw them in jail

Janusz Lokaj
said

Seems like we live in some kind of a Banana Republic...
A guy is shown the door in nationwide elections so he make backdoor deals and attempts to grab the power based on some �technicalities� and backdoor ear-to-ear deals.
Collapsing economy, dramatic polarization of the nation threatening to break it apart � no problem.
How selfish � so Jack can run his socialist experiments, Stephan can start hiring bureaucrats for his carbon tax calculations while his wife (happy at last � been dreaming about it)) can start return-addressing her letters with �24 Sussex�.
How about Gil though? I wonder what he is getting for supporting it.

Time to stop it, or else:
Welcome to the Banana Republic of Canada.

Janusz in Ottawa

John Calgary
said

ELECTION! ELECTION!. None of these clowns have a plan. They'd rather argue over whether or not there was a Canadian flag in the room. That's the sort that aspire to be politians. They thrive on being right, not doing right. Why aren't the Coaltion simply posting their economic solutions in bold print? (hmmm, let's see, I think we have one somewhere here). Dion clearly stated in just Oct, that he didn't have one. The election was only Oct, and parliament just resumed. The coalition thinks the world should be a different place by now. This is so important, they'll shut down parliament for 3 weeks over Christmas to go home, while your pension funds hits new lows. They simply argue in the house rather than delcare their solutions, because they have none!

hans
said

I can't beleive that we can vote one party(leader) and get the opposite. This doesn't even happen in the movies. Call an election now if not sooner to settle this crap and get on with governing.

Randy from Oshawa
said

If the Conservative government falls to a non confidence vote, send us back to the polls and this time pray for a majority decision for one of the parties.
How can a coalition comprised of three parties with differing ideals run a country competantly? They can't something will come up that will split them and in this, a time of severe financial crisis Canada needs a strong leader to guide us through the rough times. How can Stephan Dion lead a coalition when he himself is stepping down and is calling for a Liberal leadership convention? This is a joke.
Call another election, let us, the people say who will or won't have the responsibility to guide us through these troubled financial times. Then perhaps those who have lost, will finally do what is right. Stay the course and help guide Canada through this fiscal crisis working with the elected government as was chosen by the people.

KBS
said

Why does Stephen Dion think he has what it takes to lead Canada during this time of concern? Canadians obviously didn't think he had what it takes 6 weeks ago so what has changed?? The fact that he has jumped in bed with the Bloc or has Jack Layton as a new best friend? I don't think so!!! The 3 of you, Dion, Layton, and Duceppe need to get on with the show and quit wasting the tax payers dollars.

janet Ontario
said

do you concervatives understand what democracy is?Your leader did not win a majority therefore by democratic standards he is being ousted.
Perhaps you are the traitors for not accepting Canada's current political system.

rocketdan
said

Harper has high knowledge of economics and he has a plan but that is long term and too by the textbook. Politicians blame him for giving breaks to corporations but not to the people but if you any brains you know that businesses are the ones who gets you jobs and eventually money in your pockets.

That said even though harper has a long term plan for Canada in this chaotic economy situation intervention is necessary.

Thats were the coalition come in though i also think its because they want power which is sad.

Now my opinion is that i really like harpers long term plan but i dislike the way he is not working with the other parties resulting in the drama today. No matter what he cannot go 100 percent with his long term plan and listening to the other parties he doesn't have to inject 30 billion like they want but maybe 15-20 bn instead.

Last thing i wanted to state is the canadian political system has to simplify big time. I have to first vote for a person to run in my zone then with addition the premier gets electec(but can be a different party rep than the person chosen for the zone. The a pm needs to be picks who also can be diff than the person picked for the zone and to govern the province. Its CRAZY!!

I want to get rid of zone reps, have one vote for who will run the providence and if majority of the provinces vote for the liberal than liberal party will win a majority in the house of commons (forget 134 vs 155 seats, they just win a std 150 seats) and 2nd most voted party to have minority seat in the house of commons.

Nicole
said

Can't believe the left wing hasn't blamed Bush yet. Of course it's Stephen Harper's fault. What a joke - you'd think the Liberals were in their infant stage as a party and were just gaining name recognition - how do you expect them to raise money? Funny, the Reform made it and didn't need 1.95 per vote. Whiners and poor losers. Now if this coalition getsin, even more tax dollars go to Quebec, the West gets another slap in the face. What unity!

Matt From Trenton
said

Sorry to say opposition leaders, but you lost the election...
This *power grab* is showing just how much we can trust the other parties!
One other thing... 75% of us Canadians voted for Stephane Dion not to run this country! Think about it!!

Derek
said

If Stephane Dion and Jack Layton think that this is what Canadians want, then take it to the people through another election. To seize power any other way is essentially a coup.

Viki
said

Good heavens! Harper is putting out attack ads? Hello? Coalitions are part of the process.

Harper needs to resign. NOW, before he wastes any more of our money.

Stephen Strepsi Montreal
said

I would vote for Mich�elle Jean in a heartbeat. She is more statesmanlike, and inspiring, than the 4 Partly leading stooges put together!

MICHAELLE JEAN FOR PM!

Finally, to Stephen Harper -- say what you want tonight, but if you cut into my So You Think You Can Dance, you're done for.

Diane M.
said

The coalition is legal.Thats nice.It is also legal to smoke, to drink,eat lots of fatty foods,etc. But...does that mean it is good for us?

Luciano Contini, Sudbury, Ontario
said

It is somewhat reassuring at this stage that the Governor General does have some options to consider. Despite the fact that the majority of voters did not select Mr. Harper to lead this country and that the ability to form a coalition is embedded in our electoral framework, what I hope is given some consideration is that nowhere on the ballot at our last election was it implied, "By voting for this party, you accept the fact that you are in effect endorsing allegiance of this party with one or more of the other parties, in the event of a minority government." Accordingly I hazard to guess that, in the existing scenario, very few if anyone who voted for the NDP, the Green Party or the Bloc simultaneously endorsed Stephane Dion as "the next best alternative if my party doesn't win the election." As such, this is looking distictly more like, "Get Harper out" or "Let's get our chance at leading" instead of maturely focusing on what Canada needs at this very critical time. So to politicians and party-line cheerleaders of all colours alike: grow up and focus on the big picture. We are quickly becoming the bufoons of the political world and all parties should be planning for stability and a clear path forward, rather than on destroying your political foes.

David in Toronto
said

To those Westerners who see this as an Eastern power grab, please remeber that the Conservatives actually did win seats east of Manitoba and it is those seats that got Harper close to a majority. Otherwise the Conservatives would have been just as much a regional party as the Bloc.
Also please remember that what is happening to Harper now is brought on by his own arrogance and need for total control. We should also remember that he attempted the same thing against Martin's minority government and that he also signed a letter to the GG, along with Layton and Duceppe.
The only real difference is that he is now on the receiving end.
Canadians have failed to return a majority government in the last 2 federal elections, obviously we dont like our options. Democracy may be at times messy but it does work. If the coalition comes to power lets hope they find away to work together and accomplsh something, as Harper is obviously unwilling to attempt to work with other parties to sustain his own minority government.

Iain MacGregor
said

I support the coalition!

Mr. Harper should be ashamed of himself for even trying to subvert democracy by revoking the right of unions to strike, and by eliminating subsidies for the opposition parties. This alone should be enough for his dismissal.

That is not the DEMOCRATIC way of doing things in my Canada.

BOB NS
said

The people of Canada, nation wide, from all political affiliations should stand up and ask (by all democratic means) that the results of the last Federal Election, which was a direct consequence of what was offered to the Electorat as Possibles Choices, being Respected, or a new Election being called to approve any new deal.
BOB N.S

Gary B
said

So the amount of power you get is inversely proportional to the amount of power you receive - then shouldnt I be Prime minister?

Ling Winnipeg
said

The opposite parties are saying they form the coalition because the government do not have a plan to address the financial crisis right now, so why not give them time to do that as the government is going to that in January.
This is not a strong reason to form a coalition, we have not even seen the plan yet.
To form a coalition to go against the proposal of cutting financial support to political parties showing to me that the politicians care about their benefits more than the benefits of Canadians.
How many times the Liberals has supported the Conservaties or not even participated in voting on the issues that they did not agree, but they never form a coalition.
I am not comfortable to have a government that lead by this kind of party.
I am not comfortable to a have a PM who is not even supported by their own party.
The four parties have different believes and I expect a lot of conflicts and confusion coming up if the coalition is in charge, and Canada do not need that.
We need a stable political situation to help every Canadian to go through the tough enough financial crisis.
I think the opposite parties has done their job on making sure that the government cannot do whatever they want without working with the other parties that represent a good number of Canadians.

Thomas Earnscliffe
said

Yes others than those living in Canada are watching. I live in Pennsylvania and also in PEI. I love Canada and its people. It really upsets me that three losing parties can try to change a election despite how many turned out for the voting. The only way is to let the people vote for their government. No backdoor takeovers. Let the citizens say who is to govern. Also remember apathy gets this. Everyone should vote all the time in any election. Good luck and Merry Christmas

Alexis in Ottawa
said

The more I read the more I am convinced that the best option is the dissolution of Canada.
If coalitions are the norm in Europe so is separating and forming independent country (see the Czeck rep., Russia, Bosnia, et etc.).
While this doesn't seem like the best solution, it seems to have as much support as the coalition party.
1/ Western separation (Mb, Sask, Alberta, BC)
2/ Quebec
3/ Territories
4/ Ontario
5/ Maritimes
5 independently run countries. No central government to run to make equalization payments, 1 year free travel visa (workers wanted in the west and territories), socialists to Quebec, Ontario and Maritimes...in reading the comments I think the socialists would have to fit in with the non working Canadians out East.
I think I have summarized most of the options accurately.
Wow...I don't know where I would like to live. I have a job so maybe in the west. Although I would like somebody to take care of me so maybe in the East.
None of this sounds very Canadian! (tongue in cheek)

Lorne Foster
said

To the Governor General - we don't want a Coalition Government - period

To Mr. Harper (& Mr.Flaherty) - Please change your ways and act like a "minority governemt" - you're not a majority governemt. Make policy statements that will ensure some opposition support - all you need is "some oppositon support" - not all three opposition parties' support!!

Cheesed-off with power-struck polititians.

from: "proud Canadian Olds, Ab"

Cecilia
said

I find Albertan's response to this crisis hypocritical to say the least. They have the gall to criticize Quebec for their separatists views, while at the same time proposing Alberta separates from Canada. It makes me ill.

Don Ryane
said

I am a senior in Alberta.
I detest the disrespect shown toward parliamentary proceedure, the lack of cooperation that has been displayed over the last few years, and the partisan games played.
We need respectful honest leadership in business and government.
We are NOT getting it from Harper. Instead we get mud-slinging, underhanded maneuvering - now he wants to totally shut down parliament to discredit the government he so obviously dispises.

Carolyne
said

Here is how I see it. If a minority government is not part of a Democracy. If the votes don't count and the representatives don't count. Then no representation, no taxation.

William
said

Sad,Sick and Self Serving. The three leaders of this coalition.

C smith waiser
said

I voted and I did not vote for the Liberal or NDP parties. What has happened to this country. The Bloc!!!! How dare these so called leaders. Stephen Harper is our Prime Minister and should remain. This type of nonsense makes us look bad in the eyes of the world. How will this help our economy? It will only make matters worse. I don't want Dion as PM.

john bradley
said

A minority government is a minority for a reason.This is democratic and supporters of harper are acting like cry babies now.Looks good on ya.

What Can We Do?
said

Now why in the world would be sit by and let Dion become PM and then if that is not bad enough Layton to become Assistant PM. Dion's own Liberal Party gave him the boot, and didn't Layton try to be a used car salesman and failed. What a pair to draw to.

As this is a overthrow of the elected government can our Prime Minister not call Martial Law and have these people all arrested. Maybe it's time that we have to stand up like other countries where revolts take place, maybe we need our own Tea Party.

One way of showing our outrage is not to fund a government that is not in power because of what is the normal way we Canadians elect governments. Is there a way that we can withhold our tax dollars if this goes ahead? For Alberta, BC and Sask. why can we not withhold our transfer payments? When a revolt and takeover of our country is done is there nothing that a taxpayer can do?

Simple Math
said

TAKE NOTE

'majority' = more than half

Hard for some conservatives to understand, but there it is.

Joe from Ottawa
said

We live in a democratic society and if Mr Harper wanted this government to work, knowing well he had a minority, he should have consulted with his oppossition and not have acted like a bully. He brought this on to himself and must face with the consequences and we must all remember that what the apposition is doing is not illegal and if anyone knows about our constitution will know that it is well within their rights.

Steve Bushell, Pitt Meadows
said

Coalition governments are a fact of live in Western democracies and Canada. There is a strong history of Coalitions throughout the Western world, and in Canada.

The only sore loser here is Stephen Harper. He's the one who cannot accept the election results -- twice in a row. Shameful!

HARPER should resign and cede power to a governing Coalition with a MAJORITY of Canadian SEATS and VOTES!

Andrea in Ottawa
said

I'm so completely unimpressed with all of these guys. The Conservatives created this mess and the other parties have pushed it way to far.
We need a stable govenment right now, not power hungry politicians stomping on each other.
At this point I think both the Liberals and Conservatives need new leaders, and then bring on another election.

Angela Goddard
said

I am all for the new coalition taking over the leadership of this country. Stephen Harper must go.

AK
said

Complaints, whining and stamping feet - that isn't the sounds of Santa's reindeer on the roof, its the opposition parties who are upset at losing the past election. The election that took place elected the PC Party and that means Stephen Harper so give him a chance to get Canada through this economic crisis. Maybe mistakes were made, but EVERYONE makes mistakes at some point - some are just more public than others.

The Canadian people are angry and scared during these uncertain times, but a big huge political shake up is certainly not the way to make the Canadian people feel any better - but then neither does a handout! If an election is what is needed, then in my opinion, another election should be called and if eveyone in Canada who has an opinion on this matter and is legally allowed to vote would get of their respective "couches" and get out to vote, we might not have this problem. A majority government could be elected and we could stand up as strong and proud Canadians and not the laughing stock!

Dan in Trenton
said

Ironically, the most gentlemanly, intelligent and urbane member of the coalition is M. Duceppe. If only he was on the side of Canada. The souvereignist cause has a real winner with this man; I must confess to being jealous. What a shame that as we squabble, we advance his cause. Who are the real fools here?

Paul Styles
said

I feel blind-sided as a Canadian who went to the polls just weeks ago to make a choice. Now it appears we will have a coalition for 18 months governing our land, but what Canadian had the opportunity to make that choice? What happened to democracy? And what is to happen in 18 months? What we need in these economically unstable times is not political posturing, but consistent leadership that will know the ropes well enough to steer us through these financial storms.
While I would not mind going to the polls to let the people decide between these 2 new options, I think the coalition should be footing the bill for an election if it occurs.
I also think that any coalition that is formed to topple the government should make a minimum commitment to stay together for the remainder of the term, and none of this 18 month talk.

Richard
said

I believe the GG or the Crown would have access to the best Constitutional experts the country has to offer. Regardless what happens a coalition government would not last 30 months or 18 months. The crown must as for the government in this case a coaition to bring forth a budget ASAP and any other bills required to deal with economy and the call an election. It is the crown responsiblity to make sure there is good government and it is elected not appointed. However, with that said I believe you are seeing a couple of party leaders who are trying to enhance their careers. The Harper Government is not faced with the same problems as other countries (USA for example) are faced with. Our banking system is sound. As for the problem with the big three, Canada can't put any money forward until we find out what United States will be doing.

Trevor in Calgary
said

The three parties of the coalition do have more seats than the Conservatives. If this lady decides to let the coalition take official control, she must demand that the cabinet positions be divided among them proportionally, including the Bloc. Let the truth come out in full force.

Steve
said

The Conservatives formed the largest minority. They needed to expand support for their agenda to represent at least half the seats. Instead of working with the other parties the Conservatives attempted to do damage to them and, baring a major push to make amends, are likely to close a confidence vote. Since we just had an election and the government already lost confidence it falls to the opposition parties to form a government. This rarely happens since it is difficult to find common ground. In this case the second and third largest parties by number of seats and popular support were able to form a coalition and were able to talk the Bloc into not voting against them in confidence motions. This isn�t a diabolical ploy. The Bloc have seats in the house of commons which means if you want them to vote in your favor you need to consider the needs of their constituents.

Alex in Waterloo, Ont.
said

Yes what is happening is within the governing guidelines of our Canadian Parliamentary System. It's not that it's undemocratic, but it is the principle and conviction of individuals elected to represent us in government which is in question here.

If Mr. Dion, Mr. Layton and Mr. Duceppe were legitimately concerned about the best interest of Canadians they would have formed this coalition well before the election. An alliance should have been considered between the Liberals, NDP, and Bloc and present it to Canadians as the "Democratic Progressive Liberals Bloc" and at least we Canadians would have had the choice to vote for this new party.

And for those who claim that the Conservatives are a bunch of bullies then let's do a reality check.
Who is bullying who? At the expense of Canadians, last time I checked it was 3 bullies against 1.

Yes the Conservatives introduced potential policies which infuriated the opposition, albeit all withdrawn. This just lit the powder keg fuse which was already in the works set to explode. The coalition was a failover plan, likely strategized by Bob Rae. Just go back to provincial politics in Ontario (epoch Mid 80's). What lit the fuse?

1. $30 Millions in cuts to all political parties - In times like these as a tax payer I am fine by this and most Canadians would be as well.

2. The right to strike by government unions. Again, in times like no one government employee should hold the taxpayers hostage. Especially when we have Canadians who will lose or who have already lost their jobs with some having no right to strike. I am willing to bet that many would concede the right to strike over loosing their jobs. - I am one of these Canadians.

Let's go to the polls again!

Chris in Ottawa
said

Whose this "we" everybody keeps talking about? We didn't vote for this, we didn't choose that. There is no single party in Ottawa that represents the majority view in this country. Harper decided he would govern as if he had a majority. He didn't even try to build any consensus with other parties in the House. He had his shot and blew it. Time for someone else

JIM/ONTARIO
said

Well should be another half hour of hot air!All this money spent on ads and P.R. tactics,this money should be going to save taxpayers jobs!If the real truth came out THE CONSERVATIVES ARE RUNNING A BIGGER DEFECIT THAN THEY ARE LETTING ON!THIS DEFECIT MUST REMAIN HIDDEN.

Cady Williams
said

I expected Harper to cling to power in whatever way he could but to foment anti-French Canadian hatred is beyond the pale. and make no mistake, it is not just anti-separatist sentiment he is stirring up but also ignorant and shall I say, racist, feelings about French Quebecers. It is incumbent upon the Governor General to see through this fraudulence and allow the confidence motion to take place.

James Harris
said

A party that has only one agenda, how to get more for the province of Quebec while actually giveing less to Canada. If I were the PM I would let tem vote down the Goverment and ask for another election. I am sure that the back lash from the voters would crush the Liberals and NDP.

Anne
said

As a die hard Liberal, I would like to see the party elect a new leader, become involed with the coalition, and get rid of Steven Harper and his ego once and for all. After all for all intents and purposes, it is his ego that is failing this country and causing proud Canadians the shame and embarressment of his incompidence! Lets get it together and stop acting like a third world country!

ken
said

Imagine how will they distribute the Infrastructure Fund -

50 Billion to Quebec, 30 Billion Ontario , the rest of Canada combined to get 300 million.

There will not be a harmony, provinces will be upset. At the end maybe we will vote on getting rid of Quebec.

I don't mind the Liberals, but NDP and the Bloc shouldn't have any say in Canadian politics.

J Lacy
said

Spend our hard earned tax dollars on another election. NOT on an a bail out package to "Buzz" and the auto industry in Ontario. NOT on a billion dollar ransom payment to the bloc. Duceppe is sitting back and rubbing his hands with glee. Stephane and Jack are envisioning their dreams and happily throwing OUR money around to pacify a few in order to gain power against the wishes of a great many Canadians.

I don't think I can stomach much more TV ads, news stories, televised addresses from Dion and Layton. Dion sounds like a shrill old screaming woman who has been wronged and Layton is like a dog with a bone - just can't let it go. Duceppe is just Duceppe, working on his own agenda and of no consequence to Canada - like a spoiled wayward child sponging off the rest of us.

There are those who voted other parties but I believe the REST of Canada with certain clarity sent a message to these parties that they desired Stephen Harper to sit in the Prime Ministers chair.

I am generally a very calm and easy going person and I must say that I have never been so outraged and angry in my life!

Emily from AB
said

We did vote for this. We elected a pm that has betrayed our trust and put his party before the best interests of the Canadian people. Very disappointing.

A vote of non-confidence was really the only option for the opposition given the situation: you know its bad if the Bloc is on board with the Liberals & NDP.

Perhaps some changes need to be made to our electoral system, such as a Mixed Member Proportional (MMP) system, similar to what is in place in British Coloumbia, Germany, New Zealand, & other countries. If this was in place we would still have a majority Conservative government, but the Bloc who only had 10% of the total vote would have much less power. Not saying this would have made a difference in avoiding this situation, but makes every vote count, where now it doesn't.

Harry
said

I honestly feel lost, I support the idea of a coalition because it does appear that the Conservative don't have a plan to deal with the financial crisis. However, I am also a strong democrat who can't help but feeling that this is somehow wrong.

Kelly Rivard
said

I'm fully in favour of the new coalition government. Harper is routinely willing to engage in deceit to achieve his goals. e.g. income trusts, fixed election dates, his Dion is not a leader smear campaign, his statement that Doucet's Bloc forms part of the coalition, his statement that the coalition didn't sign the accord in front of the flag. The list goes on and on. I hope the Conservatives are ousted promptly.

Calgarian in Ottawa
said

I'll try to be as nice about this as I can. I can't believe that some of you people are supporting this Coalition government headed by an unpopular liberal, a socialist, and a seperatist! You may not like Harper, but I like him a hell of a lot more than the tyrannical rule by the liberals just a few years ago! Like it or not Harper won the election... TWICE! More Canadians obviously support him more that any other single party. I understand that the opposition parties have every right to form this coalition in Canada's flawed system, but it doesn't mean that they should! especially when we just had an election! Just think about this and hopefully you'll see what a horrible thing it is. GO HARPER AND THE PC!!!!

Jason
said

Harper will not give Canadians any answers. It'll just be another smear campaign, blatantly lying to the public (again). I wonder if the Conservatives private donars will be paying for this dirty tricks add.

��
said

quote "John
The majority of Canadians didn't vote for ya Steve. Tough luck."

so how did he take office then ? and how come the liberals had the worst showing since confederation ?

we havent voted for a coalition either btw

actually you havent voted for me (although i did get a write in vote for president of the US - long story)....can *I* go ask the GG if *I* can forma govt?

i know some people I could form a coalition with - sure we wouldnt run it as well as Harper has been but I am sure we could do a better job than Dion et al

this whole thing is a joke and the GG needs to say NO to them as there is no good reason for Harper to be removed

Kirk Lundell
said

Kirk in Calgary
I'm happy the coalition has formed and has caused such an uproar. I can hardly wait for the next big uproar when there is the anouncement of the new great country of ALBERTA. Of course we will welcome with open arms our neighbors, BC,Saskatchewan and Manitoba. In this new great country we shall abide by the will of the people. Harper would make a great PM of ALBERTA. Did I mention that our immigration policies won't include Easteners.

Tony ( on behalf of David) from Montreal
said

My friend and I had a great conversation this afteroon about politics. Not sure if the GG has the power to do this, however my friend had a great idea. She should get all 4 leaders together, sit them down in a room and get them to work out their differences. Then sign an agreement to that effect. For the GG who has very little political experience, that certainly would make her a hero in the eyes of Canadians.

Yorka Holl, Calgary
said

All this nonsense has proven 1 main fact, the liberals and NDP will not work with any elected government, that is not themselves. The liberals have again shown a complete lust for power, and inappropriate Senate seat promises, all so that Dion can call himself the Prime Minister. They have proven that we need a Majority to govern Canada, a Conservative Majority. Time to go to the polls and put an end to this nonsense and tell Dion, yet again, that we are not interested.

Wes in Grimshaw< AB
said

It truly is sad to see that the opposition leaders are such sore losers that they have to try and take power by force.

If the people of this country let the coalalition take power this country will be well on its way to becoming a dictatorship.

Beth Duncan
said

Mr. Harper, sir, stop wasting your precious time. You are Prime Minister for a limited time. Please stop yelling in the House of Commons � as a voter I don�t care how capably you insult others. Please stop the �fire and brimstone future� ads � as a voter I�m tired of the fear-mongering. I ask you, for the last time, please just do your job with honour. If you make a mistake, admit it and move on. Be civil with your opponents even when you hate their ideology, and move on. Explain your plans clearly, and move on. It�s simple. Please stop acting like someone spoiled your birthday party and start leading this nation. As a voter, THAT's what I care about.

Barb
said

We elected Stephen Harper and his party to govern us not Stephen Dion and his coalition. I feel this is a totally unacceptable and is putting Canada at risk both economically and as a country. We have not even seen the budget. This should be resolved by calling another election.

Lynn in Ontario
said

This is what everyone is not seeing. Up and until the election, the stock exchange was pretty steady, economic crisis will not hit Canada. Then BOOM Harper gets reelected and the TSX has dropped nearly everyday since. Time to get the loser outta there and let a real leader take his place. Right Stephane and Michael. Time to take your rightful places.

Alicia from Manitoba
said

If this ridiculous coalition gets to take over the government, I don't want to be a Canadian anymore. The Liberals won only eight seats in the West. They definitely do not have the support of Western Canada nor have they ever shown they gave a fig about Western Canadians. If this coalition of Eastern urbanites (one who represents Toronto and two who represent Montreal) gain power the West needs to form its own government.

I voted for the NDP in the recent election but what I should have done is vote for Conservative. I'd much rather have Harper lead the country in these tough economic times than Mr. Layton or Mr. Dion who definitely do not have the nation's best interests in heart--the last thing we need in these tough economic times is political powerplaying.

Ron
said

A configuration like this was not on the minds of the people when they elected a new government less than 6 weeks ago. For the Liberals to agree to front for the NDP/Bloc shows exactly how poor of a leader Mr. Dion truly is. No matter what anyone says or pretends is the truth, the Liberals have agreed to hand over significant power and authority to the Bloc Quebecois. Think for one minute - Mr. Dion introduces his first throne speech - Mr Duceppe submits the bill in the form of demands and what choice will Mr. Dion have - pay up or admit he made the biggest mistake in history. He will pay up. Guess what - a week later is a budget - again, Mr. Duceppe submits his bill and Mr. Dion pays up -- PLEASE tell me again, how is this a good deal for Canada. Tell me again how the Liberals will be the ones running this coalition! Dion has sold his party and its members out; all for his 15 minutes of fame. Truly, it is the Liberals who have been swindled on this deal and will bear the brunt of its fallout - I have written to every Liberal MP asking that they seriously consider the position this put the party in. It simply can't win - even if the coalition succeeds, NDP and Bloc reap the benifit; if it fails the Liberals will be destroyed politically. I encourage all Liberal supporters to let their party bosses know, they won't stand for this sell out.

VickiTee, Alberta
said

No matter how you look at it... no one voted for a separatist party to have power.

The BQ is just happy getting their equalization cheques from Alberta, and not doing anything for it except dividing this country furhter.

Another problem here, is the auto-workers who aren't willing to concede on anything, in order to keep their own jobs. All the other hard-working Canadians OF THE WEST are just supposed to blindly keep handing over cash to losing companies and their inferior products nobody wants anymore?

We will not buy your cars!

Quit fooling yourselves, and build your plants into something we CAN use, like wind-turbine production, instead.

Time to realize, you can't have your cake and eat it too. There is no cake anymore.

hcrawford, toronto
said

Mr. Dion and Mr. Layton have lost any future vote I may have been persuaded to give their respective parties. How can we trust anything they say or do now or in the future. I am totally disgusted with this type of gang behaviour.

Debbie - Ontario
said

All this becuase the Prime Minister wants to stop handing out our money to political parties and he wants to wait to see what the US does before handing out huge sums of cash to the auto industry...I am all for it! Let the Conservative led goverment lead us through these tough economic times!

Ian from Oshawa
said

The seal hunt is legal, but it looks disgusting as all hell.
Yes, the coalition is 'legal' but....
You get the drift.
The soul of this country is being torn out right before our eyes.

drew
said

A majority didn't vote for our last liberal prime minister either but nobody questioned those elections. If Dion is Prime minister, I'm moving

peggy
said

Call an election. I don't want another Liberal prime minister!

Aaron Davis
said

The fact that the oposition parties even consider an unelected coalition governing Canada is a good idea stinks of their obvious disconnection with Canadians.
I didn't vote conservative, but they seem to be the only party with integrity. I am deeply offended to my core that there seems to be no one in the opposition with a shred of consideration for Canadians.
This coalition oozes with power lust and partisan propeganda, fear fostering and disregard for democracy. It is evidence that our political system is broken beyond repair.
I served this country as a member of the Canadian military. I work now in the social services as further service to Canadians. I love Canada with all my heart and am today deaply saddened that for the first time in my life, I am ashamed and sick to be a canadian.
maybe it's time Canadians fight for a federal system that reflects the majority with more than simply their apathy.

M Cleroux, Ottawa
said

60% of those that actually voted did not vote for the Conservative party. The coalition will more accurately represent this 60%, I'm for it. Besides, Harper, thought his delays to address problems and manipulation tactics has royally screwed up, its time for someone else to step up to the plate. One last comment, if you haven't voted in the last election, keep your stupid comments to yourselves, by not voting you have not earned the right to speak up.

KMC (Markham)
said

Joe B.
You, clearly have no idea what you're talking about (how do these people get on here?)
Conservative Party Ads are paid for, and run, by Conservative Part Head Office.
The Canadian taxpayers DO NOT pay for them.
I repeat the Conservative Party Ads are paid-for by the Conservative Party, NOT the taxpayer. Got it?
Furthermore, Prime Minister Harper has very little input into the content of those ads. Got it?
He dosn't sit in his office thinking up campaign slogans as some of the politically illiterate, on here, seem to think.

Whanda
said

All I want to say is this -

For all of those people that did not vote in the last election, you should keep your comments to yourself. You have nothing to complain about. Yes, I voted as I love Canada, the best country in the world to live in even during political battles, wins and loses, recession or no recession, freedom even to the point of allowing anyone who has computer access to make their voices heard. God Bless Canada and its Leadership!

C. price
said

ummmm... does this mean that if I have 3 losing lottery tickets yet combined I all the numbers for the grand prize that I am entitled to it???

rob
said

if they cant make it work with the conservatives in power then we should just vote again

Rob Weldon-formerreformer
said

Harper is up to his dirty tricks to deceive the Canadian public.This has NEVER been about separtism but about the economy,the meltdown of markets,job losses and survival of Canadian families.However,for his need for power and control Harper brings up the fear of separtism just as Bouchard officially brought it to the attention of Canada under Mulroney.Now is not the time to play the SEPARTIST card Mr.Harper.You are suppose to be the Prome Minister of Canada and not the wedge to promote separtism.EXTEND an olive branch and make parliament work.

Sharon Leger
said

Sharon - North Bay
Our Boys on Parliament Hill need to stop fighting like little children.. Mr. Harper won a "Minority Government" and needs to be reminded of this and act accordingly.. This being said, we Canadians made our choices when the ballots were counted.. For better or worse, it was still the Peoples' choice.. As Canadians, we either voted Conservative", Liberal", "NDP" - OR - "Green"; as separate entities. We DID NOT VOTE "Conservative" OR Liberal/NDP/Green"; as two separate entities. To have done so would have been absolutely "too strange".. If the peoples' choice of just 6 weeks ago is taken away by this "3-in-1 Party", I'm sure that I, along with thousands and thousands of other Canadians will have lost faith in being part-and-parcel of a Democratic Society. We therefore would no longer have the inclination of EVER voting again (as our voice as One Nation and our Choices would just be an opinion and mean absolutely nothing to the Government.. They would just be able to do whatever they wanted, without regard to what we, as Canadians, really want).. We voted in a Minority Government, and if we let it get on with its job of Governing, we will know, and maybe change the balance of power during the next election. IT IS OUR CHOICE, not a "3-in-1 Party" who THINKS that just maybe, they know what's best for us.....WE ARE ADULTS AND CAN MAKE OUR OWN CHOICES - WE HAVE BUT YOU ARE TRYING TO TAKE OUR DEMOCRATIC RIGHTS AWAY FROM US.........GROW UP!!!!!

MuskyBuck
said

While most sit here shocked to read the musings of the average Conservative...

I find this extremely informative and educational to read the bigotry and selfishness of the average Conservative poster.

That coupled with what appears to be a lack of understanding of our own political system and how it operates.

It also proves a lack of math skills...(I love the percentage breakdowns) as well as a clear lack of understanding that our parliamentary system works by electing MP's not PM or party's.

Go back to school, if you can get along with your classmates.

Lynda in Burlington
said

Truth is that Canadians did indeed vote for this configuration in Parliament. Many of us voted strategically to keep Harper out of power, and now our voices are finally going to be heard. I couldn't be happier with this turn of events. This is democracy in action.

Jen in Halifax
said

I disagree with the people who say that by definition, more Canadians voted for the coalition than for Harper. I did not vote for the coalition; I voted for a political candidate who I thought would do good things for the area where I live. If he had been part of this coalition, I would have rethought my vote and might not have voted the same way. The before-coalition and after-coalition votes are not necessarily identical.

Melissa
said

Why is it that the minority parties are so concerned that they are willing to go to these extraordinary lengths? I would like to see some in depth analysis and reporting telling us what the Harper gov't has voted for/against or tried to push through that is causing the minorities to risk looking like they are going for a power grab.
A coalition gov't is still made up of elected representatives in proportion to the current power split, so it's not SO bad. But it LOOKS bad, and it's disconcerting. I want the media to stop reporting the same story over and over again and give us some INFORMATION.
Also, Canadians need to get off their lazy butts and go to the polls when they get the chance.

clay-calgary
said

I hope this whole ordeal destroys the liberal party for good.

Tom
said

At this critical time with global upheaval on so many fronts, Canada needs leadership in any form, not for the leader to go hiding under a rock for personal gain. Harper was a selfish bully when he called the last election � and wasted $300 Million � and he was at it again inciting this crisis by his political maneuvering. Canada's economy and the fates of the average Canadian seem to take distant second place each time.

Get a team in there that will actually get to WORK! Best stability would be to dump Harper and replace him with someone more trustworthy, and less self-centered, like say Peter McKay and start getting us all back on track. If not, a Liberal/NDP coalition that will ACT(!), is a better option than recessing for 2 months, just so that we can have a ton of negative ads that do nothing to address everyone's current issues. Canadians, I believe, have already had about 6 months of that, starting before the last election was called.

Irma
said

This whole thing is outrageous. Why won't the coalition tell us what they gave to the Bloc and Green Party. How much money? How many Senate seats? It is time that the Bloc is thrown out of Parliament since only represent Quebec and not the Country.

Diane M.
said

Some talk about a former deal between Harper and Duceppe while Martin was prime minister.Well,if it was wrong then, how can it be right now?

Brad in Calgary
said

Forget about what is legal or not, this has the potential to tear our country apart. We already have some of the worst animosity between Parties and Canadians that I have ever witnessed in all my life. What is brewing here is a hatred between Canadians that this country might never recover from. Is that what everyone that supports this coalition wants, a complete break down in Regional relations and this level of hatred, because make no mistake, that is where this is heading and it is going to get really ugly.

Larry Judge-Brockville
said

This thing is only about the 3 parties loosing their voter's free financing, which most Canadians knew nothing about. The NDP & Liberals should be ashamed with their proposal. Canadian's did not vote for them to take over and then give all the marbles and an additional 1.8 billion to the separtist. Both the NDP and the Liberals need new leaders. It is amazing what some politicians will do for their own ego. Dion shouldn't be allowed to even mention "The Canadian People" in his speeches, as he has no regard for Canadians, only his own self interest. "What about me Jack" will always be hanging off someone"s coattails as he has proven again he can't see the forest for the trees.
Lets have another eclection and give the Conservatives a majority and get our country going again. This bonehead move will only drag the whole country down.

Nada V.
said

No to the coalition, shame on the liberals for trying to destroy Canada by giving legitimacy to the socialists and separatists. Canadians did not vote for this. Call and election, nobody voted for this configuration.

Nada V.

Not so happy in Langley, BC
said

Why would we want someone in power that has lost the respect of his party running our country? Stand up and be counted, this guy is going to represent our country for 6 months. Please!

Dave Barton in Newington
said

Has anyone ever taken the time to think past the drivel about 63% against Harper and this coalition is "a true representation of what we all voted for"...
Take five mins of your busy,busy schedule to THINK what is really going on!

This Coalition may be legal, but for sure it is morally bankrupt.I voted independant in the last election,but many liberal friends think that this is the straw that will break the back of the liberal party for years to come.

This coalition can only survive if it's componant parts agree 100% and "scratch each others back".
What this means is that Jack Layton was defeated because his Universal Day Care platform was proven to be far,far too expensive. Well....under the coalition that we "all" voted for Jack gets approval for his Universal Day Care, but ONLY if Dion gets approval for his green-shaft and a big increase in taxpayer subsidies to help his cash strapped party....and Duceppe will gladly rubber stamp everything as soon as that $30 billion goes though to pay for all the new infrastructure Quebec needs NOW!And Ms May is now aboard she will need lots of taxpayer cash for all those enviromental studies that her friends need to do....Understand what I am saying?
All this at a time when the entire world is talking restraint.
What we have now is four spoiled and demanding children in the candy store/toy shop with our credit cards and no limit spending.When this is over the cost to the taxpayer will be shattering.
And you are trying to tell me that they represent what all Canadians voted for.
I think it is more in line with what every Canadian voted against.

Mark
said

Does this suprise anyone? This is what it's really about. Helping Canada? No, it's help yourself to the money.

In an interview with the Journal de Montreal published Wednesday, Parizeau praises Bloc leader Gilles Duceppe for his "impressive victory," in prying enough concessions out of the coalition of the New Democratic Party and Liberals to agree to back them.

His comments reflect those of the current PQ leader Pauline Marois who is using the crisis to advance her own cause in the provincial election campaign. She says the agreement allows Quebec to get $1 billion in equalization payments it would not have otherwise had. On the other hand, Marois also says the crisis shows the Canadian federation no longer functions and Quebec should separate.

Jim Lambert
said

If the three oposition parties are so confident thay can form a working coalition that can govern this country effectively. Fine. Then thay should be confident enough to form a cohesive political party to present to the Canadian people in an election as an alternative to the Conservatives and end the multi party system that virtually guarantees inefective mininority governments with all too frquent elections in this country.

John from Winnipeg
said

This whole thing is ridiculous. The losing parties are behaving like spoiled children who didn't get their way. What example are they setting for the entire country, if you don't get what you want stomp your feet in anger until you do. Just like the Mom in the grocery store, these politician children should be sent home and put in their rooms until they can behave properly (prorogue). The only choice we have is to let the current elected by the people government operate and do what it can. Do we really know what crisis we have? Canada is in the best financial and economic situation of almost all countries to face the economic crisis ahead mainly because of good past governing. The Coalition is destined to put us on a path of deep recession with their plan to "spend money and buy us out of problems". The current government needs to remain, failing that let the people speak again with an election. You may just see the extinction of the Liberals and the NDP after that. And they would deserve that with the tactics they are trying to pull on the Canadian people. As Clint Eastwood would say..."Go ahead...make my day!" Lets call another election and get this over with! It's only money we're spending anyway. Its either $300 Million on an election or $50 Billion on bad policy.

Susan
said

Rodger you are so right in instisting we start to make economic decisions that are sound and with a basis of making the decision. We have been throwing good tax dollars against failing mismanaged organizations that need to take resposibility for their own company management. The loaded labor rates for the auto companies are astounding and if I say a number they will not publish my blog...Us as Canadians lay down and have taken the bad ideas and we continue to pay our fair share of tax. Some of us run our own businesses very efficiently and I resent paying for incompetence. And the economic crisis is rightly aligned with the ineffective management of certain sectors, its time they became effecient, never mind the bailouts

wayne from calgary
said

Majority rules. Tough luck guys!

Rob
said

Althought I didn't vote for Mr. Harper, I think that if he wants to remain the leader than he needs to stop acting like a spoiled child, stop wasting money attacking the other parties and step up to the plate and lead. Our country needs leadership to get us through this economic crisis and if that means a Liberal-NDP government than lets see if they can do any better.

Pam in Waterloo
said

Mme. Jean is a nice lady, former CBC reporter, appointed by the Liberals, with no qualifications whatsoever to make this kind of decision.

We have a Conservative minority that at least represents most regions of Canada, or a coalition that represents Toronto, Quebec and Newfoundland.

Harper was the most popular choice for PM; Dion was the least popular choice.

If I were Jean, I would:

Prorogue parliament for 30 days;
Start again with a new throne speech and a budget;
If the government falls on the budget vote, make all 4 party leaders resign--because they obviously cannot work together in the national interest;
Give each party 30 days to elect or appoint a new leader;
Hold another election, with 4 entirely new leaders;
Let the people decide!

Just my 2 cents!

Jo
said

Call an election please!
Coalition; these three bozos are only interested in furthering their dying political careers without considering the damage they are doing to the economy of Canada in the worst economic times since the depression - its criminal what they are proposing!

Lisa
said

I don't understand why the focus is on the potential coalition and how this is all the doing of the lib/ndp/bloc parties, and none on why this has come about... this move was forced by Harper's government when the new budget was very clearly one that none of the other parties could support. It was not in the interests of the Canadian people, or a fair democracy. Hence the vote of non-confidence in the first place!

Our country needs Harper to be the strong leader we voted for, especially with the economic situation being as it is. I am disappointed that the pm I helped to vote in did not put the Canadian people first, but his party and politics. Shame. I don't agree with the coalition, but I also don't agree with some of these recent decisions on the conservative party. Regardless we the taxpayers shouldn't be paying for yet another election - ridiculous cost for nothing! - instead our politicians need to grow up & stop acting like children.

Andre Chelmsford ON
said

Call an election and lets vote out those 3 clowns and their puppets and at the same time spend 300 mill in the canadian economy

Mona Mississauga Conservative
said

We now have a �Coalition� comprised of Liberal, NDP and Bloc which has chosen to ignore the voters who recently re-elected a near Conservative Majority. This smacks of dictatorship�perhaps Ottawa should be called Little Cuba since it is seemingly filled with Fidel likenesses.

Frank
said

This is a very sad week for the country that I love, I voted Liberal, if the upcoming leaders for the Liberal have any common sense they will not let this so called coalition go thought because the Liberal party will never get my vote again. Mr Doucette as them exactly where he wants the you think that he is doing this for the good of Canada, his home now laughing because the country is split and all of this because of Jack Layton who knows he will never be elected Prime Minister and Stephen Dion which is own party said his not fit to lead them, but will let him lead the nation and all this will is in bed with Layton and Doucette. Madame Jean Go back to the people and call an Election so I can vote for Stephen Harper and if the Liberal have any dignity left they will respect the voice of Canadians, because when I vote for one party I don't vote for the 3 to make up the government.

Phil
said

The Canadian people did not elect Stephen Dion and for some odd reason, he can't seem to accept that. It's clear that he does not care for his country and he doesn't mind appeasing seperatists. If there is another election, I hope Canadians give Harper a majority government to put Dion in his place.

Danny GTA
said

I think everyone should go and Wikipedia the difference between a parliamentary system of government and a repuiblic because clearly most of you have forgotten the system of government in the country that we live in. We elect MP's in our ridings to represent our views and they collectively put their confidence behind a leader to be the PM. Technically the PM doesnt even need to belong to a party. Many of you seem to think that we live in the US where we elect a PM. I find it kind of sad that a 20 year old has to be educating his elders on how their country's political system is run. The coalition is perfectly legal and democratic and clearly represents a much larger portion of the canadian popular vote than the conservative party received. And for all those saying that the liberals and NDP are "getting in bed with the seperatists", maybe you need to do some more reading, as the agreement that has been announced states that the BQ will give its support in passing budgets and supporting the coalition in confidence motions for the next 18 months. Essentially what this means is that the coalition could go and screw Quebec federally in a budget etc. and the BQ has put pen to paper that they will pass it. I guess ignorance is bliss though for the masses

Sandi in Ottawa
said

The government of Canada has been a joke ever since Stephen Harper came into power. He has always had one thing on his mind.....himself! The Conservatives need to give him the boot and elect someone who wants to work on keeping this country together. I have never supported the Conservatives, and never will.

Stephen Harper tried these same tactics that the coalition is doing just 4 years ago. Why is it all of a sudden an outrage when a group gets together to oust him? I say good riddance, and and give the coalition the chance to govern a FAIR way.

Adrian
said

Canada is facing an unbelievably serious situation, one sure due to a mistake by Prime Minister Harper not governing as a partner in a Minority Government situation�. But�. For the Liberals and NDP to involve a regional political movement/ party; the Bloc Quebecois in the Government is playing with our country�s Unity! I am seeing reaction from the west feeling alienated, separatists frothing at the mouth that the next round in the Neverendum referendum is around the corner. And all the while there is Jack standing in the spotlight acting like this is a proud moment in Canadian history although his words are declaring this to be otherwise� but it is his body language that speaks volumes and the grin under his moustache is saying something that is not to be trusted. This threesome accuses The Prime Minister of playing politics, Layton demands he resigns because he failed the Canadian people�

The house has just barely opened, the Conservatives have just started governing and this Parliament truthfully has not been given the opportunity to fail� simply put NOTHING HAS BEEN DONE! When my children ask me for a cookie before dinner I say �no, eat your dinner first and wait for the cookie� and when they disagree with my assessment of the situation they turn and sneak the cookies anyways. This is the same in my estimation; we Canadians gave the Conservatives a slightly higher number of seats but still within a minority situation, but the Liberals and NDP �children� are now sneaking to get that cookie they were denied because they did not get the initial answer they wanted. This amounts to in fact stealing the cookie which is dishonest, is cheating and should not be tolerated by us, the Canadian people.

This plan stinks, Layton has been vying for more power since he entered Federal politics, meanwhile the Liberals are seeking any possible vehicle to return to power, and the Bloc�� Well, they obviously will do anything or side with anyone as long as that party gives them what they want, meets their �needs� in Quebec. I believe the Liberals have sold their souls; The NDP under Layton is greedy and self serving while the Bloc will go along with anything as long as they get something out of it. Is that a government I want to guide us through this troubled time? Is this a government that the world can respect? This is truly a dark period in our History, as it is one fraught with greed, selfishness and a lack of seeking what we the people wanted from our elected officials. We are CANADA, we deserve better! I expect BETTER�.. Stand down Liberals and NDP� stand down!

Jasmine Kubski
said

The responsibility for the current uproar on the Hill lies with no one but the Prime Minister. Mr. Harper has refused to concede to the fact that his party has only earned a minority of the seats in the house and still governs like he garnered 100% of the votes. He does not have the right to ignore the opinions and ideas of the other parties. In fact, it is absolutely his responsibility to make sure the policies that come out of parliament are those that best represent the will of all Canadians (by means of their elected MPs), not just the minority of people who voted for conservative MPs. How could the opposition parties stand by and approve propositions to strip women�s and worker�s rights, to bankrupt the opposing political parties, while refusing to offer any meaningful help for the economy?
Steven Harper decided not to engage the majority of MPs elected by Canadians, and now he deserves the tough lesson in Canadian parliamentary politics he skipped back in high school. Let's support cooperation, let's support the coalition

Adam from Halifax
said

As a Maritimer I will absolutely welcome a coalition government! I do not like Stephen Harper or the way he runs things. He hasn't done anything to improve or help the Maritimes. He hasn't done anything to help pretect the environment. In fact he supports industry and the oil sands which is killing our land. I voted NDP in the last election because I don't trust Stephen Harper! Three heads are better than one!

John Hood
said

Until we know if the US is going to bail out the auto makers, we can't give money to them.
We must wait to see what Obama does before we act. We are all (north America) in this together and it going to take cross border cooperation to solve this economic crisis.

Anna
said

The majority of voters did not vote for Dion. Quebec once again is trying to destroy Canada and Ontario and Maritime leaders are helping them?? I live in Ontario. I am ashamed of my own party leaders. They should be supporting the government to make sure the focus is in the economy not in their dirty interests.

Please somebody gather volunteers to collect signatures to change the constitution. We, the people, have the power to create a political system that represents what we voted for. We are in this mess becuase of a system that does not give the party that wins a chance to run the country for 4 years enough time to prove if they can do it or not. We are in this mess because we are forced to let the game players of the parliament to choose for us intead of letting us choose directly. We need a true democracy. One where we can directly point our canadian leader and where we can directly take it down (via referendum with a minimum of legitimate voters).

Gaetan Bisson
said

Gate in Gatineau
An election should be call in January, so Canadians send a clear message to Mr Dion and Mr Layton, that there a price to pay for a �Coup d��tat�, by giving the Conservatives a substantial majority.

Caleb Abas
said

My doctor prescribed laughter for me the other day to kill my nagging stress but I was wondering what Store has in stock the unbranded prescription until I found it in the Parliament Hill, Ottawa. Alas! It was so cheap than I ever envisaged and how much I thanked my doctor; it worked!
On a more serious note, I recommend Stephane Dion resigned immediately. I feel sad that Jack Layton, formerly a Toronto City councillor is riding high on the ineptitude of the Liberal leader. It does not take anyone too much thinking to know that Liberal party, that once indomitable Party that fights for the common Canadians is the one at losing end in this imbroglio. NDP has nothing to lose, it is only gaining unnecessary popularity due to the thoughtlessness of some politicians in the Liberal party - some of them are even eyeing Liberal Party leadership (Bob Rae &co)It is terribly unfortunate! The Liberal Party I used to know can fight its own battle, its own cause without depending on neophytes like jack layton's NDP not even to talk of chuckling Duceppe who thought his opportunity has finally come. The Liberal Party needs leaders at this time who are ready to stand for principle as against opportunism, who are ready to defend the future in today's decision, and without minding whose horse is gored. The Party needs leaders who are thoughtful, sober and creative, not brash, childish and amateurish ones it is presently parading. To combat Harpers's excesses, the Party needs leaders who can be humble enough to return to the grassroot to whip up the kind of sentiments Obama evoked in United States Not the kind of leaders who sit down in their cosy offices in Ottawa thinking and plotting on how to upstage a young savvy Harper.

bill mcleod
said

ALBERTA
Some of you are saying get rid of Harper.....ok and replace with him with who? larry, moe or curly.
and the budget hasn't even been put forth yet!!!!
There will be more people in Alberta, B.C. and Sask. that will loose their jobs if this coalition gets control. Then guess what happens......a large majority of workers in western Canada return to eastern Canada and start drawing on your provincial welfare and unemployment insurance.

Ken
said

"John
The majority of Canadians didn't vote for ya Steve. Tough luck."

You are correct, but even less numbers of voters voted for Dion.

Dorothy - Okotoks, AB
said

The Liberals and NDP have shown by their willingness to jump into bed with the Separatists their greed for power regardless of the detriment to Canada.

Jim in Markham
said

The Blocs are separatist, but so is Harper and his Reform party. Everyone is Canadian until they can separate.

Angry in Alberta
said

I can't believe that our Canadian DEMOCRACY has come to this. If there was a box on the ballot that said "anybody but..." I would be able to see the reasoning in people saying that the majority did not vote for the Conservative Party. But, alas, there wasn't. Because you might have voted for the NDP doesn't mean you voted for the Bloq, or the Liberal party. I have a hard time seeing how anyone can morally justify the BULLIES ganging up to push a collegue out of the "sandbox". What makes anyone believe that 3 parties who have fundamentally differing philosophies and mandates will be able to get along to run the government? They haven't been able to play nice with each other before.

Most likely the first thing they will do...shut down the only industry that is keeping Canada afloat right now, all in the name of the environment! Let's waste another huge amount of taxpayer money to hold yet another election in a time of fiscal turmoil to find out that the majority of Canadians do not want a group of children leading our great country. Stephan Dion is an embarrassment, he knows that, as he has already announced that he will be stepping down after his party's dismal defeat in the last election. This power grab is just another of his riduculous ideas to get his 2 minutes of fame! Shame on you!

PM
said

He is waving good bye to us; so nice to see him go.

Garth Colllicutt
said

Hopefully, the Gov.General will decide that another election is the only option for the "true" will of the Canadians to be heard. Canadians whom voted NDP & Liberal DID NOT EXPECT this. Those MP's were NOT elected for this outcome.

Drew Smith
said

Somehow Canadians have got it in their heads that it is noble, or laudable to be a cynic. Cynics are a dime a dozen. It takes no courage to be one. People complain about having an election, while in other countries people lay down their lives to have one. People say a 'pox on all their houses!' that is Your house you are putting a pox upon. People say they want stability! Well a dictator can provide stability.

What is embarrassing is how few of the people who comment, realize that they are revealing their ignorance, regarding the nature of their own democracy. Statistically almost half the people commenting here did not even show up to vote. Too apathetic to care (pathetic is what is really is). Perhaps there is so much media flowing in from the US that many of you have begun to identify with their system, while not understanding Your own. If some of these angry partisans had gone to the Polls on election day, then (by the Slant of Your comments now) Stephen Harper would have his majority. It did not happen. Stability at the expense of the will of parliament, is a Tyrants creed. I urge the PM to resign. Unfortunately He has chosen a reckless course, which has caused a crisis, and is now compounded it by stirring up bigoted hatred towards the people of Quebec.

Angry mobs are not a substitute for legitimacy. I think that the Conservative Party should be given a chance to right the ship, and form a Government, after Mr. Harper has resigned.

Robert Butler
said

I wouldn't trust Stephane Dion, to run a candy store let alone a country. He isn't even wanted by his own party, yet they want us to accept him as fit to run the nation? What a joke!

As for Jack Layton. Have you noticed how he sticks his chest out like a school boy who just made "Prefect?" He always comes out making himself sound noble and righteous. We see through it all Mr. Layton!

As for the Seperatists, What more is their to say? They are "SEPERATISTS" PERIOD!

These three men ought to know, that self promotion is no recommendation.

If they win this bid it will be a sad day for the nation. but if they do we can sit back and watch them bite and devour one another as they fall into their own trap.

Rob Cochrane Alberta

Marc from Q city
said

OK, OK, OK CLOWNS! We all know by now that this is a totaly legal move on the part of the coalition. We get that. It don't make it right, it's dirty pool.

Just the thought of the country being run by a guy whose own party was ready to hang him a couple weeks ago for the worst showing in an election is suddenly worthy of the PM position???

I am not a hard core con because i have voted lib and con in the past based on the leader of the party, but this time, out of the four up there, Harper is THE man i think is best for PM.

Gail, Halifax
said

I keep hearing how we didn't vote for the PM or the party, but we voted in 308 MPs who choose a leader.

That being the case, how can anyone say that Mr. Harper has lost the confidence of Parliament? Those 308 MPs have not voted on a non-confidence motion, so how can he have already lost? Is it because their Party leaders say so? But we didn't vote for the Party leader, did we....

As has been repeatedly pointed out, no one but the contituents in Stephane's, Jack's and Gilles' ridings actually voted for them so they certainly don't speak for the rest of Canada. They only speak for the constituents in their riding. The whole 308 MPs speak for Canada not just these three, and only a vote by all the MPs on a non-confidence motion can bring down the government, is this not correct?

Then how can Stephane, Jack & Gilles possibly say that they have the support of the majority of Parliament if that hasn't gone to a vote? From what I see, they have the support of the three signatures they show on their agreement - their own.

You don't speak for my MP, boys. He speaks for ME. And I am the one who will tell him how to vote, not you. I have sent emails to him indicating the same. I suggest all other Canadians outraged by this do the same. If we scream loudly enough, someone will listen.

Rodger in Calgary
said

Another thought that perhaps might help people is this question:

Why is it Harper's fault for not "cooperating" with the other, smaller minority parties? The opposition parties "didn't like" the Economic Update, which included NOT tossing $30 BILLION to three FAILING companies. That's smart business, and common sense. How about everyone wait a little bit and let this run its course, see what happens in say January or February? Why was it SOOOO important for the opposition to vote non-confidence now? Was it because someone thought it was a smart idea NOT to fund the parties with PUBLIC funds? Perhaps this is more of an issue of self-preservation than anything?

I've said it before "If people don't like your product, they aren't going to give you any money for it." I find it highly ironic that this statement applies to both broke political parties as well as broke car companies.

If there is a need for cars, SOMEONE will come to Canada and use the existing plants, re-tool them and run their businesses SMARTER than the ones that failed. Can the Economists argue that point? Who cares if they are "Foreign" from overseas instead of "Foreign" from the United States?

If there is a need for an almost redundant, centrist political party in Canada, that will work itself out too.

The economy is Canada, excluding one sector in one province, seems to be okay with being patient and carrying on "business as usual".

Peter from Calgary
said

Good job Dion. You have emboldened the Quebec Separatists and fanned the flames of Western Separatism. God knows what your group will do if and when it governs. What a legacy!

D.P. from Ontario
said

I would sooner see the government fall on a vote of non confidence on a budget rather then an economic statement. I know we just went through an election 6 weeks ago but would rather do it again then have this coalition government be in power. Mr. Dion is leaving in May and in my view he is a lame duck even now.

Susan
said

Canadians who are against the coalition can take action by not purchasing gasoline 1 day a week, no liquor or cigarettes, no lottery tickets and no personal tax voluntary contributions. Lets see how the coalition feels about paying for the instability they are creating. I don't think we should just accept the outcome without making it known we don't want a coalition, actions speak louder than words. Evidently the coalition feels it okay to waste our time and money, time to stand up for what you believe.

RB - Toronto
said

I find it incredible reading all of these posts, on the CTV website, and otherwise. It seems that the majority of people who are on the side of the Conservatives simply regurgitate the talking points espoused by the Conservative propaganda machine.
Here are the corrections to this propaganda:
- A coalition government is a democratic safety-valve to prevent minority governments from acting like they are given a majority government's mandate to govern.
- The conservatives were not given a blanket mandate to govern. They were given a minority government mandate which implies that they must make extra efforts to bridge divides between parties to accomplish the management of the country.
- In many cases minority governments can achieve great things because of the need to govern from a centrist position which eliminates ideological agendas.
I hope that the coalition takes the bravado out of Harper's sails and brings him back to earth. He has been high on power-lust too long.

Brent
said

Hopefully the GG will recognize the 3 STOOGES for what they are and send us to a general election.

Gerald Clipse
said

Harper has only himself to blame for this mes. And it's prefectly in tune with our constitution to allow for a coalition to take over. The anger Conservatives feel is like a child crying when he's been caught stealing cookies - i.e. it's probably more a sense of shame.

DON
said

For all of those out there saying coalition governments work in other countries, lets have some examples. Maybe your thinking of Italy with 50 governments since WWII or Israel with an election almost every year, or Greece?? All poor economic/social examples of coalition governance. Name one leading country in the world with a coalition government, or are you just parroting the three stooges, Jack, Stephan & the traitor Duceppe.

Brigit
said

I think Mr.Harper should call another election as I did not vote in the coalition which in my opinion is very shameful of them to assume this is what's best for Canada. Have they no integrity? Assuming people want Dion in power ITHINK NOT! Not to mention being in bed with a seperatist party is the icing on the cake! If it's Harper the problem then elect someone else but at least have an election! It is the democratic thing to do and our God given right to vote.

Alexis from Ottawa
said

An arrogant western, an arrogant socialist, a separatist and a guy that wouldn't be leading his party in May 2009...and who do we get as PM...the guy who wasn't going to have a party in May.
And MP's wonder why only 40% of Canadians chose to vote!
Overhall this system: Scrape the Senate (waste of millions of dollars annually), deal with Quebec (either it is a part of the country or not...I don't think the VALUES of Quebec - take, take, take are Canadian), get rid of the GG, and get rid of this silly British subject nonsense.
I don't care if the coalition is legal or not...Liberals supporters are blinded "today" and chose not to remember the Ad Scam. They sent of to war..etc. etc, and the Conservations chose not to remember their choice was the separatist party in 2004 and Brian Mulrooney!
The NDP and Separatists are not the answer for Canada (and neither is the Green Party and Elizabeth May - who lobbied for a fat paycheck in the Senate).
That leaves us with Dion and Harper....neither is acceptable.
If the GG had any power she would scrap the cabinet and form a coalition between all parties with the number of cabinet seats relative to the number of seats the party won in the last election. The PM would be chosen by the cabinet.
The Bloc would not get any seats in cabinet due to their separatist ideals. Elizabeth may ...get a life and a JOB.
Stimulate the economy through tax cuts for Canadians.
No free money for industry however I am not opposed to the Crown purchasing parts of the Big 3 or lumber companies, etc. Then once they are stable the shares can be sold back to the company at a profit.

Sean from Winnipeg
said

If the coalition comes into power then we should change the election rules. Rather than putting your vote in a ballot box, you should put it in the trash can next to the ballot box, because that is about how much your vote is worth.

And i don't understand how they can claim that an unelected trio of stooges with completely different fundamentals will have a 'more stable government' than the one we currently have.

If this coalition does go down, the conservatives will win a majority in the next election for sure - even if Stephen Harper isn't the leader.

Cambob
said

people talk of majority votes, majority seats, etc. The simple fact is the MAJORITY of people did not vote in the last election. Thus, we have exactly what we voted for.
Any person complaining regardless of which side they are on, who did NOT vote, YOU are to blame for this crisis!
Blame Harper. Blame Dion. If you didn't vote, then "you are to b-lame." as my kid says.

SH.. Disturber
said

Can any of these clowns at least fake some humility and listen? GG should come in a slap them around for not playing together nicely and send them to their rooms. It's like bunch of 5 year olds who can't share.
Embarassing.

Michael - Toronto
said

Pack your bags Mr. Harper! The role of the official opposition party is to keep the governing party in line. You failed to respond to the financial crisis that we are all facing. Now that your job is on the line, you come out swinging...too little too late, and most un-Canadian! Mr. Dion and the other party leaders are doing their due diligence and responding to your lack of response. If you have a problem with what they are doing, then I suggest you make a motion to amend our constitution. The Governor General has a DUTY to Canadians to allow the coalition to form a government in the face of your dismissive arrogance. Mr. Harper...politics is perception, and this is not a good look for you! Be graceful as politicians should be and pack your bags!

Fred Harvey
said

If this alliance is allowed to form the next government, this lesson will not be lost on politicians.

Conservatives will never forget this, and will add it to their playbook.

With the NDP as the perpetual power-hungry "swing" party, this farce may ensure that future minority governments be ruled by coalitions headed by the Conservatives or Liberals - whichever is the least popular at the time.

How ironic. I may have to vote for those I dislike in order to get the Prime-Minister I want.

A new election now is the best choice for us.

RRO
said

I think this whole coalition thing was nothing more than a political ploy that got out of control and trapped the opposition members. I believe if Prime Minister Harper prorogues government, he gets two months to write a new throne speech, finish a budget which will include a new stimulus package, work out a deal with the opposition parties which lets them all save face and the opportunity to continue to make this coalition even worse through a strong television ad war.

If he focuses on Stephan Dion, it also allows Layton and Ducceppe to bow out gracefully, and even the new Liberal leader to back away.

Also if he waits two months he may be able to build a case to hold a new election rather than letting this unelected, unstable coalition seize power and place a man Canadians rejected as Prime Minister.

clarence J duguay from Marmora Ontario
said

I am very disappointed with the antics in Ottawa Stephen Harper was voted in the position of our prime minister. I never trusted Stephane Dion but I thought there might be hope for Jack Layton but if they call an election I'm sure people will show who they are backing. I'm begining to think I'm living in a communist country. Suddenly the United States is starting to look good to me !

Sean - Conservative but not happy.
said

Steven Harper made an error however that didn�t mean the opposition needed to go out and make a deal with a party that wish to SEPARATE this country. Please people let us not lose sight of that and at the end of the day Quebec will be the real winner here. As we see today the Liberals � NDP have promised monies for Quebec. The Bloc is taking credit for this. This is a time where fiscal resistant is needed and right out of the gate I don�t get the feeling we will see it.

Steven Harper � Shame on you! You need to be replaced, you had the chance to bring the Conservatives back to Ottawa in time and era I truly believe there principles and fiscal policy are needed most. Instead you play slapstick politics and prove you are no better then the Liberals.

Whatever happens, I hope no one loses sight that we need to remain strong as ONE CANADA let us tread carefully or we might disenfranchise a generation and lose a country

Deejay
said

Coalition Supporters are saying that the majority of Canadians did not vote Conservative, but for them. Hold on, here - there was no coalition platform in the last election, so NOBODY voted for them.

Canada First
said

Hey Political Junkie,

Are you really saying that Harper made his coalition effort in 2004 public? Really? Then I guess HARPER DELIBERATLEY LIED TO CANADA on December 1� saying the Conservatives would NEVER consider a coalition with the Bloc Qu�b�cois.

No. Never. Bloc and Cons brought down the Liberal government in 2005. In negotiations with the Bloc in 2004 to form a coalition government.

Also, Harper and the CONS are turning out to be more damaging to the economy then the NDP, that is what has changed. Harper was more hellbent on getting his agenda of bankrupting the opposition through his war of attrition, then to do anything about the economy.

Tazzy
said

I hope her excellency has the wisdom to realize that it is not in the country's best interests to be governed by a coalition

Check this remark by NDP
"NDP Leader Jack Layton, meanwhile, said that Harper himself was prepared to form a government with the Bloc four years ago is making the accusations in order to slander his political opponents."
So what now You should turn around do the same Are you kidding Grow up please!

Scott from Ottawa
said

Let's all keep in mind that not any one leader represents a majority of Canadians.

While I don't care for another election, I agree with the comment that 300 million is better spent than a proposed stimulus package from a coalition that does not have full knowledge of the current governments finances.

An election, while distasteful at this time, would allow each party to present their economic plan.

Canadians would then be able to put their own partisan views aside and vote for the best package and hopefully elect a majority... whichever party that may be.

Michell, AB
said

So you're all okay with the ONE BILLION DOLLARS a year of extra transfer payments to Quebec and the 6 SENATE SEATS the Bloc were promised for their 18 months of co-operation?

And have you all forgotten the the reason Harper had to call an election eight weeks ago was because nothing was getting accomplished in the house because the Libs/NDP/Bloc refused to work with the Conservatives on anything? If they were so concerned about "working together for the good of Canadians" perhaps they should have started doing it last year.

Yes, Harper has a hunger for power and for a majority government, but is not to satisfy his personal ambition. He wants a majority so that he can be an effective leader and make the changes that our country so desperately needs.

Maybe trying to cut the funding to the political parties wasn't very politically expedient - neither was trying to cut 24 million of gratuitous arts funding before the last election - but it is the best thing for the economy and the average Canadian Taxpayer. To me, this just says that Harper is more concerned about doing what is best for the country than he is about polishing his image.

Do you all really want a leader who sees what needs to be done but is too afraid of the opposition to take the steps necessary to help our country through this tumultuous time?

Peter Benson
said

The inmates have taken over the asylum.

Sergio
said

From a new Canadian.

I just pass the test to became Canadian citizen. The book, distributed by Immigration Canada, say:"After an election, the party with the most elected representatives become the party in power. The leader of this party becomes the Prime Minister."
I'm thinking...if Liberal, NDP and Bloc were so brave to present the coalition as political entity for the election and win the majority..fine; but they didn't and now they present to the Canadians this "thing" that nobody voted.

Marianne
said

Sad, but true: Frank in Russia summed it up best; they know it; they had it. If after all this mess we trust Mr. Harper and think that he will change: wrong. This is (and was always) a one man show.
Thanks Frank.

Marianne Nelson

Martin in Ontario
said

So... This is not a democratic process eh? WRONG! This is very democratic. If you do not have the confidence of the House of Commons then you can be brought down. Plain and simple. As far as I can tell the only undemocratic thing going on in Ottawa is that Steven Harper runs the Conservative party like a dictator. His way or the highway. He neither seeks out or listens to advice from others by all accounts. When Steven Harper is gone from the party I will come back. I will not vote to have Canada run as Steven Harper's personal dictatorship.

Bruce from Saskatchewan
said

Everyone keeps talking about the rules of parliament. It all legal upfront no problem. Then in their so called stimulus package first thing out of their mouths is change the EI rules of having to wait two weeks after all these layoffs are suppose to be happening. One UAW worker on these comments said he was worried about his job if he got laid off. He was proud of his 20 years as a decal sticker but didn't know how he would pay his 500k mortgage. Can't even wait 2 weeks for his EI if he gets laid off. I'll be waiting for the invite out to his cottage at the lake. I'll even bring some steaks that I raise out west and the beer too. Oops I forgot I work 365 days a year I won't have time.

al from calgary
said

If I see or hear one more liberal mp say that this is what the people want I am going to get sick. If this is what the people want then let us decide as I am sure that the coalition will get a strong mandate from the people and the the conservatives will then have nothing to bitch about. Or are they scared that the opposite will happen. By the way I would rather be led by a bully rather than either of the 2 egomaniacs with a constant smirk on their thinking they are above everyone else. If Mr Dion thinks that working with the bloc is good for unity, then all provinces should vote in separtists in the name of national unity

Paul in NS
said

For everyone who feels that we did not vote for Mr. Harper you may need to look at that again. We vote by party and by leader of the Party . We did not vote for the Liberials as a direct result of who is leading the party Mr. Dion.

Spending money on the auto industry will not fix the economy. The problem is bigger that us.

The Bloc do not have seats in the rest of Canada and therefor their percentage of votes and seats should not be part of this .

The residents of Quebec who want to be a part of this Country voted for PC's , NDP and Liberal. So we should only be factoring that into the Goverment of Canada.

Any one out there who voted for the Bloc and say they want to be part of Canada , your vote says the complete opposite to the rest of Canada.

So keeping that in mind the rest of Canada voted for a PC goverment with Mr. Harper leading the country.

The reality is Mr. Dion will stop at nothing to become PM.

More people in this country voted to have the PC's in power and to have Mr. Harper lead the Country .

How you want to interpret the percentages is up to you , reality is we told Mr. Dion we did not want him to lead the country

Sam
said

If the coalition represents the majority of the people then perhaps the coalition should form ONE party that would run against the Conservatives in the next election and then we would see if people really would support them.

While the coalition may be part of our system, it sure as heck isn't what I voted for and I for one am angry at this happening. All parties need to work together in the best interest of Canadians.

Paul from Toronto
said

As a Green Party voter in the last election, I am concerned that what is presently taking place in Ottawa is going to ensure a Conservative Party majority in the next election. The coalition does indeed need to tread carefully here!

David from Saskatchewan
said

All I can say is this is a terrible situation we have going on. We (CANADA)will be the laughing stock of the world. To bad we now are hearing people speek out. Maybe a lot more people should have voted, ya think?

Chris
said

Nice work Harper. If you had not poked the opposition in the eyes on Thursday, maybe this crisis would have been avoided. As much as I am not crazy about this coalition,I feel Harper is getting what he deserves here. There was all of this talk only 3 weeks ago about how the Conservatives were going to work together with the opposition parties to make this government work. I guess Harper was telling another one of his lies. Harper needs to get over his desire to destroy the Liberal party and get to the business of governing the country. If he get's another chance I hope he takes this lesson and works with the opposition to make things work instead of poking them in the eye. These certainly are interesting times!!

Devil's Advocate
said

Here's a thought...Here is a man that has been pushed up against the wall and his only response to that thus far is attack ads? Why doesn't he tell the People that he is doing the job he was elected to do? Instead, he thinks that by presenting Dion as weak yet AGAIN, we will be blinded and brainwashed into believing it. Now here's the thing! So many accused Dion of being a weak leader, one with no backbone, one who did not stand up for his beliefs yet here we are, he has finally stepped up to the plate and has realized that the current government has gone way too far and he is being criticized for it? Talk about pure hypocrisy!

This coalition is the best alternative right now and this country cannot afford to head back to the polls so soon. Also, I am not concerned with the parties involved as it is obvious that they have decided to set aside their differences and work on common ground. Now THAT is what a minority government's mandate is! It's about compromise! So just because the Bloc is a separatist party does not mean that they are unable to bring anything else to the table. Implying that is simply ridiculous! I have given Harper enough chances and his arrogance and blatant disregard for compromise and cooperation have turned me off completely. This is his loss to bear and his alone. There is nothing undemocratic about what is happening. Just because it is unprecedented (the 1920's are too far for some to refer to) does not make it unjust. This is democracy at its very best and Canadians should be proud that SOME parties are willing to come together to move this country forward. Under the Conservatives, we have regressed!

Sylvain
said

We are living in the best country of the world.
Please be reasonable.
We have been waitting for a few weeks for the government financial planning in this bad economic time.
Did you listen to Mr. Harper's financial plan, last Thursday?
Was that a joke?
Unemployment is rising, pensions/RRSPs are shrinking, manufacturing companies are getting weeker and weeker, poverty is increasing among people.
Aren't we allowed to vote against your plan?
Do you want to insult us if we vote against your plan?
Are you stopping even the democracy in Canada too?
What is next Mr. Harper?

Tim in Ottawa
said

We do not need another election! Its not going to change anything. Harper is not going to get his majority. He has tried and failed twice now and will fail again.

The man is a bully and not a leader. A real leader would of worked with the opposition and not against it. He has lost the confidence of the house and should step down and let another Conservative step up. Someone who can work with the other parties and not try to run Canada like he is the CEO of a corporation that has to bow down to his will.

Bye bye Harper. Don't let the door hit you on the way out!

Tara T, Edmonton
said

My biggest frustration is that the opposition is attempting to use the inevitable downturn of the economy as a scapegoat for his playground antics. Right now, our country does not need our elected officials (Conservative/Liberal/NDP/Bloc/Independants) to be fighting over power while the rest of us deal with our failing economy. What we need is for them to all man up and together run our country as best as they can.

However, I do believe Harper will learn a valuable lesson with the recent happenings; Keep your friends close and your enemies closer. A la Obama.

Good Luck GG

Jlow
said

I thought Canadians made it pretty clear that they DIDN'T want Dion as PM & the Liberals were quite ready to ditch him! I was sickened to see news coverage of Dion & Layton, licking their lips (literally) during a press conference, ready to dive into the troughs of the power hungry! During times of economic restraint, we need the Conservative idealogy to limit spending as we all need to tighten our proverbial belts. We don't need a Coalition of "Reach-a-rounders" with blank cheques who are willing to spend taypayers money to smooth the feathers of a few interest groups. The only solution is to have another election, where I'm sure there would be record turnout, and Canadians will have their say. Period. ;)

Peter Wilkinson
said

The only reason the Conservatives didn't get a majority last election was the fact that Harper was their leader. Many folk are simply frightened by his style and the prospect that we might slip into the extreme right Christian control we have seen in US Politics. He is simply too "republican American" in style and politics. If they find another leader, more moderate in views and less controlling and directive they would easily win a new election. With Harper leading them they might well lose support from the people. Dion frightens westerners with the prospect of too much French influence to win for the Libs. A new election with TWO new leaders would give us a stable government...one party or the other as the people decide.

Brian D
said

We on "Main Street" have been lied to, cheated and literally robbed of a huge portion of our life time's savings through the lack of transparency, corruption and greed of those on "Wall Street" and "Bay Street" and now we are experiencing the same by the leaders of the Liberal Party, the NDP and the Bloc.

This coalition government has not been thrown together overnight as these three parties are suggesting. This is not about Mr. Harper or the supposed inappropriate action of the federal government with their action with the economy. Rather it is entirely about the three leaders attempt for power.

As Canadians we now not only face the worst economic situation since the depression of the 1930's but we now have the threat of being governed nationally by a government that was not elected "by the people, for the people".

If the courts will not deal with the actions of these three political leaders for acting contrary to the best interests of Canadians, then hopefully Canadians will deal with them appropriately during the next election. The sooner the better.

Vicki- lost in Alberta
said

I hope the coalition does succeed. Harper was only elected by 1/3 of the voters in the last election. The other 2/3rd's would like a government that can actually get the counrty back on track or at least have a plan to do that. I would never personally vote for a Liberal, but they did leave the country with a surplus which Harper has blown through. I think that with the colition, they will be able to work together if only to prove that they are the right ones to govern the country.

Robert Butler
said

I keep hearing the coalition supporters saying, "That this proposed coalition is Constitutional." There may be provision for it, but that doesn't make it right. Lets remember that no Constitution is perfect, and is fundementally flawed because the people that write it are fundementally flawed in their judgement also. It just goes to show that some government at some time will have to amend it, to disallow political terrorism of this nature. The Coalition's action is a an insult upon the intelligence of mature Canadians who know better.

Rob Alberta

Day
said

People are hurting in the U.S. and in Canada because of the jobs lost overseas. Well it's time we all remember why or what caused the job loss. Remember it was "Freetrade", which was bound to cause our jobs to be lost, because people in other countries get paid less. Companies will always go where they can save a buck. The solution to this economic crisis the world is facing is simple.

What we need globally if Freetrade is to continue, is a GLOBAL DOLLAR and a GLOBAL MINIMUM WAGE!!!! This way it doesn't matter where these big businesses open shop, because they have to pay the same world wide, and then there is no real incentive to get up and move the companies. Another thing is, if globalization is to continue, countries should specialize in what they produce, that way there is work for everyone. If I were a leader of a country, this is what I'd be working towards.

Donny
said

To Steve, Yellowknife:

What you wrote there is just the same typical bigotry that I keep hearing from Conservatives in these comments. And it's the same type of attitude that has gotten Stephen Harper in this mess.

People, you need to stop thinking about your money and what's in in for you. We are a country and we need to look out for each other. There will always be some people down on their luck. Or some "haves" and "have nots". Yet, they will always change.

Take Alberta, for instance. They may be a "have" province for the moment being, but we'll see about that in 50 years. And we'll see what they think of equalization then.

James V
said

The debate here should not be about wether the liberals or conservatives are good parties, it is about the process. Let the people of Canada decide what party should be in power. If Dion and Jack are so sure they are doing the right thing, then let us vote on their position. Let us the people decide !!

P.M. Davison
said

In a democracy the majority rules. The coalition would be the majority. Seems simple enough. Let's get on with it and start dealing with the real crisis which is the economy.

Al
said

The Prime Minister is a bully and does not understand how the parliamentary system works. He has complete disregard for the opposition parties, and thinks they are there just to fill seats. As the leader of a minority government, he needs the support of opposition members, but he has nothing but distain for them. He called and election, an illegal one at that, because he said parliament was disruptive, well he is the problem, and should try to fix the problem he has created.

We believe he is just a power hungry individual who wants to win at any cost! If he provokes an election we believe there will be less people voting than last time. I will be one not voting, I have been voting since I was a teenager, and am now 60, and am fed up!!!!!!!!!

Suzanne Jensen
said

The Harper government seems to be once again about smear campaigning and bullying to cloud the issue that they do not have a majority government.There have been 12 minority governments since the Confederation. and the birth of Confederation was the very first coalition government. So was else is new . Who is efficiently dealing with the financial crisis at the moment??

We are all Canadian!!!
said

Quebec foreigners should not run Canada?

All Quebecers are Canadian and pay their taxes like any other Canadian,

If you understand the situation, Liberals and NDP might run this counthy not the Bloc!!! It people like you that explain why we are stuck with the Bloc!!!

Get the story right and stop picking on other canadians that live in Quebec!

Shame to be in a country with people like you! Period.

Peter Burgess
said

Peter from Edmonton.

I used to scoff at Western separatists but this last power play shows that it will always be Quebec and Toronto ruling the rest of Canada like we're mere colonials to their rule.

And no Harper didn�t do this 4 years ago - Martin wasn't elected by Canada he was elected by the Liberal party. I realize Liberal party member don't believe there's a difference but there is.

And so what 62% of you didn't vote for Harper? How many of you voted for BQ?

The separation movement has a new supporter. Moi. I wish it wasn't necessary but I see now there is no "working with the West" in the minds of Ontario or Quebec. Just empty-headed, "Harper=Bush", rhetoric by uneducated talking-point regurgitaters who can't face up to the *fact* that this country has been managed better in the last 4 years than the previous 40.

When are you people going to realize that the Liberal party isn�t actually �Liberal�?

My Canada does not include Quebec. Their Quebec does not include Canada. Lets face that and move on it.

Peter Wilkins
said

As part of the majority of voters who voted against Harper's non-specific election campaign, I'm not surprised to see him try to act like he had a majority. And yet he still has said nothing to provide a stimulus to the economy, even after agreeing with world leaders weeks ago that's what is needed.
He now says a coalition is not democratic, and yet he attempted one with the Bloc Quebecois previously when in opposition!
It's time to replace Harper's Conservatives.
Peter, Toronto

Stephan Gabriel
said

Blowback blessing in disguise. Besides exercising democracy and true Canadian values another election will invest a $300 million stimulus to the economy. I love working elections and expect a record-breaking turnout. Canadians fought wars to defend our freedom and democracy. I will be damned if the GG permits a communist, socialist, and separatist form Coalition, just because individually none of the Three Stooges would ever be democratically elected as PM. The Stooges showing their true colours by sleeping with the devil is a blessing in disguise for the Conservatives by fact that Harper is certain to harvest a majority government in defence of Canadian historic pride and sovereignty. Even disgusted Torontonian and Quebecers will change their colour from red to blue across the board.

Colleen Mason
said

I am digusted with the coalitions attempt to undermine the conservative govertment which was voted in by Canadians. Where was my vote for this? Where is my representation? Canadians were not asked by the coalitions if this is what we wanted. Let Canadians decide on how we want our country governed.

Carol R
said

I guess that every minority government has no power or say for the Canadians who vote. SO WHY VOTE? The opposition parties always have more votes in a minority government. IF that gives them the right to take over because they don't like some of the proposals, then object just like the rest of the minority governments have done. The West has always lived with the choice of what Canadians have voted in, even if we didn't like it, which many times we didn't but we SUCKED IT UP. So SUCK IT UP and get back to work.

Kpax Thwogswallow
said

I think I'll watch the comedy network.

Arthur Laing of Toronto
said

I together with thousands of Canadians across the country felt outraged at the parliamentary coup taking shape on the Hill. We have voted for the best party to lead the country and the electorate's rights should be respected not be thrown to the dogs when the new government has hardly taken place. It's a damned shame on Dion to grab power through the back door and I can assure him that the electorate want him to respect their ballots. We're also flabbergasted with the NDP and BQ for being boot-lickers of the corrupt and infamous Liberals. It's time for Michael Ignatief to break away from the corrupt and demolised Liberals and form a Liberal Democratic Party. He's a thousand, thousand times much respected by Canadians than the MORON DION.

We appeal to the GG to call another GE should the minority government be brought down by a coup comprising thugs and ruffians. The party in a democracy should win by the BALLOT and not by the BULLET that is typical of dictatorship and rogue nations. Canada would lose its status as a truly democratic country should the people's mandate be taken away by a coup of rogues and illegitimates. This will only spell the disunity of the country and where the people's mandate is trodden by the illegitimate coup on Parlianment Hill, the people will take to the streets. We trust Dion will search his conscience to win his right to be PM through the BALLOT and not the BULLET. If he chose the latter, he'll live to regret and we wonder how he'll face the world as illegitimate PM of Canada. We will NOT ACCEPT him as PM if it's done through foul and illegtimate means. The Liberal, NDP and BQ treacherous action is condemned by the rightful electorate.

Trent
said

To Jessica who claims "
Another fact - The coalition (Liberal and NDP) received over 40% of the popular vote as opposed to the Conservatives who only received 37% of the popular vote. So...I think that no further comment is needed."

No where on the ballot during the last Federal election was there a Coalition Party member. There was BQ, NDP, Green, Liberal, Conservatives, etc...

One person one vote. I did not vote for a coalition (more than one party) party. So for you to state that the coalition recieved majority of votes is FALSE and that is a FACT. If the coalition thinks that it can run the country as a coalition under a leader that has confirmed that he is stepping down in June then bring on the polls and we will see if majority of Canadians will vote for this fiasco team of Larry, Moe and Curly.

Sean Isaac
said

So you think that this is democracy at work HUH!! How about these three bozo's at the helm of this trifecta take their intentions to the canadian electorate and we'll see true democracy at work. The way of the people is democracy!! Had everyone known that the bloc was going to be running the country or atleast have the power that they have been so gracously given i'm pretty sure that the last election's results would have been quite different. You people that call this democracy at work make me sick and quite frankly ashamed to call myself canadian right now!!

mobellem
said

Jeff, the problem is not with the "woman" who was nominated for the job; she is very capable of making the right decision for Canadians. I am against this collision government; this is a democratic country; and all this power hungry individuals should think of their "Country" first. They are pushing Canada on the brink of separation.

Patriot from Montreal
said

First let make this clear. I am a voting Liberal from Montreal. Now I f I understand our democracy. We vote for MP's and they form a partisan parliament made up of different parties representing Canada ( except the Bloc� They are solely Quebec). When we have a minority Gov. it shows that the people of this great country are split with their support. But the beauty is that the opposition will keep the ruling party in check. I guess this is what's happening now, except for one thing. If the opposition has signed a coalition agreement for 18 months, and this coalition makes up majority seats, then that effective gives this coalition a free hand. i.e. Majority Government.

So for 18 months the gang of three will agree to disagree and make policies for this country without any safety net for poor decisions�.. I hate to say this , but Harper's only mistake after the elections was not to make a coalition with the NDP and voila �. Majority.
Good luck Canada

Quinn
said

So let me get this straight, you voted for someone who basically screwed up worse at their job of being Prime Minister than any other PM in history. And it's the Liberals fault he screwed up?

Uh, sorry, no.

The guy tried to act like he was running a majority and put partisan politics before Canada's economic crisis! I have never seen a more bone-headed move in the history of politics.

He talks about the coalition but where's his economic plan? How come he won't debate that on television? How come he won't even address it in public? How come he doesn't make ads on TV telling everybody about how he wants to sell all the crown land on the cheap to American corporations during the biggest dip in property values in Canadian history? How come he won't talk about his �New Charter of Open Federalism� where he�s trying to starve the provinces and force them to shift expenditures away from health care to benefit privatized healthcare? How come he won't talk about why he wants to make it illegal for Unions to strike for two years? How come he won't defend his own politics? Why, if he's sucha leader is he hiding behind this blind, knee-jerk, nationalistic rhetoric?

And his supporters want us to spend another 300 million dollars on another election that will elect another minority government during an Economic crisis, because Harper screwed up? That's the stupidest, most ridiculous thing I've ever heard in my entire life!!

And Harper wants to endanger Canada's economy and waste time until the end of next month for his own political gain? Yeah, what a 'leader'.

Margaret Riches, Ottawa
said

The reactions of many of the Canadian public to the current fiasco in the Parliament shows that our education systems should be giving our children more Canadian history in their curricula. It wouldn't hurt the adults to brush up on it either.

John E
said

Is this the official start of the election campaign? Or just an attack ad for one last poke in the eye of the opposition.

Sheri from Ontario
said

Finally, we say GOODBYE to Stephen Harper! Maybe there really is a Santa Claus...

Westcoaster
said

A majority of the voters in the last election voted for the three parties that are proposing a coalition government. They represent the views of the most Canadians. This Conservative minority government deserves to be defeated and replaced by the coalition because the Conservatives have shown that they don't grasp what the majority of Canadians want especially in this global economic crisis.

It would be nice for a change to see parties working together for the good of the country rather than against each other.

When the Liberals were in power we enjoyed budget after budget with surpluses. Under the Conservatives we have seen that surplus get smaller and smaller. They say they know how to run the government in these troubled times but they did a poor job when they were running it during boom times.

As far as the coalition relying on the Bloc to succeed being wrong, Harper has relied on the Bloc to help his minority government in the past, too. The Bloc isn't just about separatism, they are also about helping their constituents in Quebec to live better lives within Canada. They were democratically elected and represent the vast majority of voters in Quebec. Let's have them at the table, too, rather than keep them out in the cold.

I say out with the Conservatives and in with the Coalition and get on with helping all Canadians live better lives.

David from Ottawa.
said

Why do we allow the election losers to do a confidence vote on the Canadian elected government? Obviously, S. Dion and J. Layton are against Canadians' choice.

It would be the worst choice to have a coalition government that relies on the separatists and spends billings of dollars on each party's own interests.

If needed, I would see another election. I believe the Conservatives will gain a marjority.

Rodger in Calgary
said

I think first off, all the people who continue to spout off about how "people don't understand the laws of our Parliamentary system and the Governor General's role" should just give it rest. MOST people don't understand the laws, but MOST people can tell you this much:

The Liberals and the NDP don't like each other. They say it ALL THE TIME! (Just ask any Liberal or NDP what they think of the other Party's POLICIES (important word here).

Neither Party particularly cares about the BQ, as EVERYONE knows what their POLICIES are. (Duceppe says it all the time, even last night on TV when questioned specifically about the coalition.)

There is a distinct difference in running an election campaign specifically saying "we will not support the other parties' agendae", so that people KNOW what they are voting for. (This is kind of thing MOST "grassroots" Liberal and NDP constituents REALLY vote for, by the way...)

Coalition goverments in OTHER countries people keep pointing out, CAMPAIGN that way BEFORE the election, so people know what they are getting.

Also keep in mind the MOST important thing, all you "rule spouters" is that the MPs are elected by the Constituents. These are the people that for the most part MIGHT vote for a DIFFERENT MP, now that the Liberals and NDP have COMPLETELY changed direction and therefore have essentially mis-lead their followers.

This should also show all the "yeah, but 60% Of Canadians voted against the Conservatives" people what is really happening in the political landscape.

The root of all this problem is the SMALLER minority parties don't like the Economic update. I don't want to be put $30 BILLION dollars in DEBT just to save a few FAILING car companies. We NEED a vote so everyone can speak their UPDATED mind!

Ken
said

In a response to John. The majority may not have voted for the Conservatives, but even less voted for the Liberals, even less for the NDP and less for the BQ. All of a sudden the Green Party has reappeared too with 0 seats. That is the problem with a 4+ party system. With your logic we will elect one government and unless it is a majority, we will over take it. Let the NDP / Libs and BQ run together on a new election ticket if they have the same viewpoint.

Ralph in Moncton
said

Harpers arrogance has finally caught up to him. Now we the people are paying for it.

Mary
said

Mary Ontario
A few short weeks ago Canadians elected a Conservative Minority Government. The number of parties we have in Canada, makes it almost impossible to elect anything but a minority Government. Now without even giving them a chance to present a budget the other parties have decided to overturn the decision made by the people of Canada. They all talk about Prime Minister Harper's arrogance.

How much more arrogant can they get than to think they know what Canadians want better than the electorate. Liberals seem to believe they have some God given right to govern and they are willing to do anything to gain control. They are even ready to make an unholy alliance with the Bloc, a party dedicated to destroying our Country. They should be very careful or one day we will find it will be Western Canada that wants to separate! Then where will we be!.

William Alberta
said

I think it may be time to look at what Canada has become! fragmented and greedy to say the least. Being a one time quebecer and now a westerner I have had the chance to see things from alot of different views and 1 thing that I have learnt is that we do not have 1 happy province in this country. We are not united nor have we been for years. Our political system continues to fail us and all we do is hope the next party to lead us is better then the last. When ever we get a decent person as Prime Minister the opposition forces them out. I do not mean Harper I do mean Paul Martin.

I am no longer a liberal nor am I a member or a supporter of any of the current groups we have in Ottawa. I never agreed with having the Bloc in Ottawa because they are not a federal party. There should be a federal law stating that the groups must run in every province to be considered in a federal election but there is not and here we are. We fight over transfer payments and provincial rights and we fail as a democratic Country at every turn. What is the answer I do not know but one thing I do know is being a complete socialist Country will not work as we need to fund the socialism. Being a complete capitalist country also will not work as we will lose our social programs. There has to be a way to find the middle ground between the two and maybe we should focus on changing our current system and rebuild this Country into the world leader it should be.

DB - Winnipeg
said

At the paint store, 45% of customers said they preferred red, 30% said they preferred blue and 25% said they preferred yellow. So the store blended blue and yellow and produced green. No customers were happy. What an incredibly stupid argument.

Robert Butler
said

It is Canadians who should decide who governs, not three power hungry rebels! Their behaviour is shameful!

I hope the Governor General will use wisdom, and allow a cooling off period for all concerned, and wait for the Harper Budget. Then they can all have their vote.

Rob Butler

Jim Douglas
said

Canadian voters made their decision in the last election. This power grab while constitutional serves only the "3 amigos" under the guise of pretending to care about Canadians. I love this country too much to have it hijacked by Dion and Layton while they climb in bed with the party who wants to break up the country. Grow up coalition members and leave your power grab in the trash bin where it belongs.

Richard Sampson
said

I wonder if Mr.Harper will sue the GG if she refuses to delay parliment? If i can't get my way..sue..the Canadian Reform Alliance Party(C.R.A.P.) have shown their true colours..It was funny listening John Braid saying he is "shocked,my jaw dropped upon hearing of a coalition with the BQ" where were you John when Harper tried the same move in 04..right I forgot..Harper most likely said NOT to TALK with the media..or you jaw was wired shut..btw i live in the west..I absolutley despise the the Canadian Reform Alliance Party! people talk about dictators on blogs..take a long hard look at what Mr.Harper has been doing since entering politics..educate yourself

ron - clarington
said

The only way we can address this attempted coup is through an election. The people never voted for THIS!It's the 300 mil vs 30 bil. Sorry Jack.

Gerry D
said

Iam am totally opposed to the coalition of the "three losers" seizing power from our recently re-elected government. This is a power grab, plain and simple.
They are trying to perform a snow-job on the public by claiming it's about the financial crisis.
The only one with any integity is Duceppe. At least he readily admits that he signed on to obtain as many goodies for Quebec as possible.

FSN
said

To DEBRA:

How interesting it is that you only point out Conservative Government problems.

Let�s see what the Liberals so proudly introduced Canadians to.

LIBERAL WALL OF SHAME:

1. Pierre Elliot Trudeau � Start of Canada�s debt. Thanks to his government, the Canadian debt was started here.
2. Jean Chretien � Opposed the introduction of the GST (by the Conservatives) and promises to get ride of it, only to leave it just as he found it, at 7%. Thanks for nothing.
3. Jean Chretien � Opposed the free trade agreement. He had plenty of opportunity to do something about it as PM. Did he? NO, he didn�t!!!
4. Jean Chretien � Quebec sponsorship Adscam. What else can I add here???
5. Andrew Thompson � Liberal Senator � Absent from the Senate for so long (living in Mexico) that his own colleagues suspended him (until he�s 75). What do we pay Senators for? Is it to do their job, or is it to live in Mexico and not lift a finger in the Canadian Senate?
6. Stephane Dion � Despite Liberal opposition to the GST in the Mulroney days, Stephane Dion now opposed the reduction of the GST by the Harper government. Which is it, do you want the GST or do you not want the GST.
7. Stephane Dion � Several occasions during the Conservative minority government, rather than topple the government by DISAGREEING with a Conservative policy introduced in the House, all Liberal MPs WALKED AWAY from the house on several occasions and did NOT vote. We pay MPs to do their job. Either agree with the motion and vote as such, or grow something under there, and vote NO and topple the government. Waiting for the opportune moment to topple the government when public opinion seems to suggest you might win an election is not in the best interest of Canada but in the best interest of the Liberal Party. Shame!

Need I say more? Does this show that the Liberal Party of Canada does not belong in the �driver�s seat�?

All political parties have problems while in government and while in opposition. To point the finger at one and essentially say �they suck� in one form or another gets us nowhere.

J.W.
said

You think the 3 stooges will save the economy????? This is a global issue not a Canadian issue!!! Did the conservatives do like the Americans and give out stimulus $$ and billions in bailout money and be deeper into debt? Conseritives give 50 billion in tax credit to buisnesses, if this wasn't in place more places would go under. Let the 3 stooges give 30 billion in stimulus and our kids and grandkids will be paying for this.

I kind of like my income tax settings right now and god knows what increase in GST/PST and income tax we will see if these 3 get in.

Would you want people running Canada who one can't control temper, another who spoke on POT TV website and last one(and scariest) wants to seperate possinbly.

Maybe I should make plans to move to US?

Iain Bennett
said

It's simple, if Harper puts a hold on government has got to go, period.

We need to re-look at proportional representation again.

I'd much rather see the coalition government run things - I know they will do a better job.

Harper - he's completely ignored all of the warning signs of the economy.

Chuck in Toronto
said

I keep hearing how "the majority of Canadians" didn't vote for Harper and that this is why the Coalition can take power. Well, it seems to me a greater majority of Canadians: 1) did not vote for Dion or Layton 2) do not want the Bloc in power (and don't waste my time saying they aren't as that is simply not true -- ie $500 million more in transfers already) 3) never had the chance to even consider a coalition as it was never presented to as an option.
We DEMND another election NOW !

tg
said

If the GG calls an election - Canadians better vote. The election in October was the worst turn out in the history of Canada. It's up to Canadians to make a difference and use their democratic right to determine who will lead our country. My hope is there is another election and that all Canadians will step up. Hopefully the media will emphasize this fact and remind Canadians of their duty - to vote!

Jenny in Ottawa
said

Harper is a bully, who is mean-spiritied, is lying outright about the actions of the opposition parties, and who is now stooping so low as to invoke patriotism to try and prop up his minority party. This from a guy who wanted the West to seperate a few short years ago. It's about time the other party leaders take a stand - Harper has to go.

Gregory D
said

Cliff Scott

I believe the poll you are talking about was national but there is 75-80% support for it in Quebec so it doesn't actually reflect the opposition in the rest of the country. I think Quebec sees this as an opportunity to get more out of the federal government. Right or wrong I guess I can understand them taking advantage of the situation but it doesn't sit well with the rest of the country. I don't much care what happens here but I am concerned with what it took to buy the Block off that isn't public. They can say it is all in the agreement but I think it would be naive to believe the Block wouldn't take advantage of their position. I know I would.

regards
gregoryd

Vahe Balabanian
said

The parliamentary rules must be followed whatever the outcome is whether we like it or not. The coalition is following the parliamentary rule. We became loose on rules by setting rules and breaking them. Harper set this precedent by fixing the date for election then breaking it. Enough is enough!

Peter in Fredericton
said

I hope Stephen Harper is going to the air waves to announce his resignation. I consider myself and an Independent and tried to stay neutral up until now. However, since he brought this crisis on, and just keeps adding venom to an already poisonous situation, our country will be best served if he leaves. Clearly he is now try to turn west against east to save his political skin. We not only have the risk of Quebec separatists getting stronger but western separatist as well.

Hopefully, his resignation will appease the coalition and we can back down to a more stable situation with the Conservatives in power with a new leader until we go to the polls again next summer with a new slate of more public service oriented leaders.

Dan
said

It totally amazes me how we think in this country. We have a goverment voted in by the people who actually did pretty good considering that it was a minority goverment the first time round. In its first term it took the GST from 7% to 5%, I recall a liberal goverment promissing to abolish the GST but they never delivered. Now as a concerned citizen of this great country I can't see how cutting goverment funding to political parties is such a bad thing. If the Political Party could stand on its own merit would't people support them finacially ?

A Coalition is being formed to take over this country and yet this coalition doesn't represent the interests of all Canadians. This coalition represents Ontario and Quebec interests, what about the rest of Canada ? And doesn't a coalition with a seperatist party give the seperatist movement more credibility in its own province ? To me this coalition brings Canada one step closer to seperation. I would hope people would look at what each party is attempting to gain from this coalition cause if we allow this to happen then the people of Canada will no longer be represented in this Goverment.

Ike from Aurora
said

The three parties are too chicken to call an election, because they know that the Canadian voters will be upset enough to give the Conservatives a majority.
If this coalition does succeed, it's virtually guaranteed that the Cons will eventually come back into power with a strong majority Government. The three stooges are just prolonging the inevitable.

Trent
said

To Sarah in Niagara : You are correct. However, if you take the tiem to read the comments by My Two Bits Worth above, 82% do not want NDP , 74% do not want the Libs and 90% do not want the BQ. So, to claim that more people do not want Harper is a somewhat false statement as the numbers clearly indicate that more Canadians wanted Harper than any of the other party leaders.

Lowell
said

If you are making comments on here in favor of keeping on a dysfunctional prime minister and cabinet but didn't vote in the last election, which a large number of Canadians did not, then I would say your words mean little. I say, we are in an economic crisis which many Cahadians are being affected by, and so far the Conservatives have done nothing, instead preferring to live in some kind of suspended reality where things are rosy.

The opposition parties representing the majority of Canadians do have an economic stimulus plan to get people back to work and which is in step with the rest of the world, should be given a chance to govern. Harper has failed the test of leadership and needs to do the democratic thing and step aside. His dysfunctional style of leadership will put Canadians in jeopardy.

Gord Sturgeon
said

There is little doubt the Canadian Voters DID NOT want either Dion or Layton as PM. The Bloc ONLY represents Quebec with the mandate to separate or get whatever it can for Quebec at the expense of the balance of Canada. What deal has been made with the Bloc in exchange for support? Dion & Duceppe have shown in the past to dispise each other. Looks like Jack Layton is trying to be the king maker and use Dion and Duceppe as the pawns. Our GC needs to give them all a tonque lashing and remind all of them of how the country voted. NO NO NO to a Coalition.

Dylan in BC
said

Ok, sure, why not.. You Conservatives want another election? Let's find out just how much Harper has angered Quebec with his "separatist" labels. I'm willing to bet he'd find himself in a weaker position.

Harper was willing to form a coalition government with the Bloc when he was the leader of the opposition. To suggest now that the Liberals should not is hypocrisy.

Amy from Toronto
said

In all my years of participating in Canada's democratic system, this is the first time I have actually been excited about our government and how it works.

I voted on October 14th, and the results were similar to our previous election on January 23, 2006. Canada still doesn't trust Harper with a majority. What makes us think an election called less than two months after the last one is going to bring a different result? October's election had the lowest voter turnout for a reason, people are fed up.

I have no respect for a prime minister who feels the use of attack ads is appropriate to get his own way. If Harper truly feels the Conservatives have Canada's best interests at heart, then he should show us that through his governance and budget, not through trashing other leaders and using fear tactics. As I recall, another conservative leader who used fear tactics is now known as one of the worst prime ministers Canada has ever had.

I sincerely hope Gov. Gen. Michaelle Jean approves the coalition. What a difference it would be to see our political parties working together instead of tearing each other down and getting little accomplished in the meantime.

As for delaying the vote till January; election or coalition, I want to know before the new year how my country is going to be led. It's a stall tactic, and one I find irritating.

Steve in Alberta
said

I wonder why the coalition government? Could it be because Harper wanted to cut the opposition part funding or place a salary cap onMP's salaries, which by the way affects himself. All i see is someone who is trying ot do what is best for the country. We also need to remember that people died for our freedom and our democracy. If he truly does not have the confidence of the house, then let the people speak. I think the west should form a seperatist party, let the easterners try to exist with the resources they have instead of our Alberta Oil.

Sherry Katrina - Ottawa
said

John - get it into your head (although you really are not alone). Maybe the majority did not vote for Harper but NEITHER DID THEY VOTE FOR A COALITION, NOR THE LIBERALS, NDPs OR BLOC!!!! At no time was there a box beside "Coalition" and although the majority did not vote for Harper, they voted even less for the rest of them! Harper received MORE votes therefore he should be in - not them.

They are greedy and power hungry and it would not have mattered what the budget was like, who said what, when, they were intent on taking over and not allowing the people of Canada their right to choose. Now they tell us what and who will run the country - or so that's what they want to do. The GG has a hard task and it has always been in the job description of the GG to make this decision.

Neil Staff
said

Even though the Conservatives are now targeting Stephane Dion as the number one enemy in radio and TV ads � and that�s fair enough as he is a willing participant � I believe that Jack Layton is the true villain here. He is the actual instigator and puppet master of this mess and is the very person who started this conspiracy of deceit and pretext.

You may remember seeing him on TV the day after the election.

This arrogant and pompous little man was posturing before the cameras and was saying that he hoped that Harper had learned a lesson from the election. If you can believe it he actually said that it was Harper who had lost and he was demanding that the Conservatives had to come to the other parties and had to work with them � and not the other way around! Talk about unmitigated gall and delusion!

I was so annoyed by this nonsense that I was going to write Letters to the Editor and complain about his falsehoods and arrogance. Unfortunately, I got busy with other stuff and never wrote the letters. Too bad as it is clear to me now that that was the defining moment. That was when he decided to take matters into his own hands, ignore and usurp the will of the people, and conspire to subvert the results of the election.

People of Canada wake up! It's time to turf this man out on his ear and give Harper and fiscal common sense and responsibility a chance!

Neil in Whitby

nc
said

Perhaps we should start thinking about making some constitutional changes, so this type of situation can be avoided.
Historians and political scientists all agree this is fair game in our parliamentary system. But somehow it does not feel right.

Blair Watson
said

Late last night, I received a link to the online petition opposing the Liberal-NDP-Bloc Qu�b�cois coalition. My signature was no. 71864 less than nine hours ago. I see more than 45,600 additional people have signed it. I also faxed a letter to the Governor General in which I said, referring to the federal Liberals, NDP and Bloc Qu�b�cois, �Their scheme, however well-intentioned, essentially amounts to a non-violent coup d��tat and undermines the Canadian democratic tradition as it has evolved since Confederation.

In the 40th Canadian general election just seven weeks ago, nearly 13.7 million Canadians exercised their democratic right and elected a minority Conservative government led by Stephen Harper. I did not vote for the Conservatives. None of us voted for a coalition government.

On Monday, the news media reported that Liberal leader Stephane Di�n said, �We are ready to form a new government that will address the best interests of the people instead of plunging Canadians into another election.� Who are the Liberals, NDP and Bloc Qu�b�cois to unilaterally decide that another federal election is currently �unsuitable� for Canadians, and will continue to be so until June 30, 2011, more than two and a half years from now, unless the accord between the Liberals and NDP is renewed?"

Canadians have different political opinions, but I think we are united in our recognition that ours is the right to elect a federal government, whether it be a minority or majority one.

kames
said

In my opinion, Gov. General must think as to how Mr. Dion, who is not fit enough to lead liberal party and was forced to step down, be fit enough to lead a coalition of different ideologies in this turbulent times.
Moreover, this coalition is talking of economic stimulus. Mr. Dion is no economist. He knows only how to raise taxes through fossil tax.
How are they going to raise money for so called economic stimulus unless they have in mind to raise fresh taxes.

Day
said

I think this is absurd. Stephan Harper was elected (for the second time) to be the Prime Minister, and the reason for a minority government is usually to keep the party in check, so that they can't railroad Canadians, so to see the abuse of power weilded by the Liberals, NDP, and the Bloc, this gang mentality, because they lost power a couple of years ago is dispicable to say the least. And to anyone who feels it's okay that the parties are forming a coalition to topple and run the government themselves, just remember one day the shoe may be on the other foot. Maybe next time it will be your party who has a minority government that supposedly needs ousting. Think about it, what kind of precedent are we setting here? This is scary stuff, don't you think?

Phil in Halifax
said

The Unelected GG should not make this decision that will have ramifications beyond next week or next year.

She should ask the people of Canada through a plebiscite if they want to be governed by this coalition. If the answer is NO (which it would be) then instruct the politician�s to get back to work (Jan2nd) like the rest of us real working Canadians and pass a budget.

In no way as the Queens representative of Canada can she allow a separatist government to gain a foothold in Canada.

Chris in Alberta
said

Lets have another election. Enough of this back room crap!

DON'T WRITE ANYTHING ON YOUR BALLOTS!
said

For the love of God, if we go back to the polls (and it's still a little premature to speculate), please DO NOT write anything on your ballots as Daryll from Bible Hill NS says. It will void your vote. I assume this was a nice attempt from a Lib/NDP trying to trick Conservative voters into voiding their votes.

Bert
said

This is a good idea at this time but why did they not try this approach before the last election ? Would have been interesting to see all the fuss this would have raised at that time plus save the country an election that did not prove anything!!!!!!!

Geoffrey from Toronto
said

I hope we do not live in a dictatorship, so maybe after Harper speaks we can hear what the other leaders have to say?
This man uses our tax dollars to speak on TV, print ads and Tv ads, incredible isnt it that he thinks he is entitled.
We need to dump this guy fast. Thanks to the opposition for acknowledging this fact.
Bring on the coalition.

Marina - Ontario
said

Today I emailed the Governor General with my view on this...please, call an election, do NOT let this Coalition rule this country. It is not what we voted for in the election. You can email your opinion on this to Her Excellency
the Right Honourable Micha�lle Jean, C.C., C.M.M., C.O.M., C.D.
Governor General of Canada at Info@GG.CA

Bryan Balderson
said

Bryan from Red Deer
So the soundly defeated Liberals and the socialists sell their souls to the seperatists to get cabinet posts and the ability to spend billions from future generations woith out a mandate from the people?
No wonder the West feels they can never have a say in the national government. We help elect a party that has an actual economist as its leader. Heaven forbid we ever have somebody other than a lawyer as Prime Minister.
This farce falls right in to the seperatists best dreams. A west that wants out from the idea that the only people qualified to run Canada have to be from Quebec and Ontario.
The best economy in the World now has Banana Republic coups, way to go boys.

Lee in Calgary
said

Parliment and the GG's office is often about historical decision and XXX. Often we hear the Speaker of the House issuing rulings based on presidence set 100 yrs ago. I believe in our current situation the GG should look very hard at past presedence and remember well that first only one PM in our history has been refused a request to Prorogue parliment and that was due to the fact that he had done so to avoid a serious parlimentary investigation which ultimately lead to his resignation as PM. Obviously this is not the case here.

Secondly, should the government fall on a budgetary measure (they come back on 27 Jan and after hearing the budget the coalition votes against the government) then she would do well to remember that no GG in history has appointed another government after the failure of a budget bill. In every case the GG has disolved parliment and asked the parties to seek a new mandate from the people.

While I agree with those who suggest the GG has the legal power to ask the coalition to govern I believe that in the 21st century we must have the choice of who govern's us and that combined with past precidence should drive her thinking alone.

Nobody who voted NDP or Bloc in the past election voted for Mr. Dion to be appointed PM. There was no coalition presented to Canadian voters to consider.

Should the government fall on Monday or in January we must decide who governs us and now that Canadians understand that should a Conservative minority once again be elected that the 3 opposition parties are willing to work together and form a government then we can cast our votes well informed of what options await us but we were denied that knowledge on 14 Oct.

Sam
said

I have listened carefully to Mr. harper economic plan.
You, As a Harper supporter, do you really think that is the right plan for Canada?
I am sorry but if you think yes, you either dont know anything about economy or you are an extrimist, who just support and love Harper.
I, as an immigrant and citizen of Canada for the last 12 years and travelled and stayed in many countries in the past and a person who is quite familiar to politics and economic sciences believe that the Harper way will destrory almost all provinces of Canada specially Ontario and Quebec in long term.
Even People of Alberta that are very happy with mr. harper will suffer the consequences if the oil price stay low.
Just remember if Mr. Haper claim to be the best in G7, he is also the only one that had high price oil (high oil tax) for the last 2 years.
As an independant, I believe Canada need to work on industry, Forestry and infrustructure and should not only rely on oil. In his plan you can not see any of them.
So the opposition parties have the right to go against Mr.Harper.
Unfortunatly, Mr. Harper just face the opposition with insults, etc...
At this time, if he really love his country, he should listen to the representitive of the 65% of Canadian in the parliment and try to modify his plan based on the choice of all Canadian and not only his 35% supporters.
Mr. Harper is behaving like school boys and tries to through stones at democracy.
Canada during the libreral government prior to Mr. Harper was a real Canada with democracy and the best country in the world. Unfortunatly, Mr. Harper is changing this situation similar to what Mr. Bush did during his presidency.

Paul
said

The Conservatives should be allowed to continue to govern. The Liberals and NDP campaigned on their own platforms and they were rejected. How can they now form a government without the consent of the public?

What will their stances be on Foreign Policy? On Health Care? Education? The Provinces?

They promised that they would not do this, and they are giving an enormous amount of power to the Bloc.

In this day and age, they should have to seek a mandate from the people.

We did not elect members to accomplish the platform of the NDP and Bloc.

Prorogue it and/or dissolve it. But the opposition should NOT be allowed to take power like this.

I'd rather see the 300 million spent on election then MASSIVE spending that the NDP and BLOC is proposing.

Laurie
said

Obviously with the expensive not one but two elections in a very short timeframe....it was obvious that the people have voted in a minority once again with Harper being in the lead. To me it sounds like treason, and shame on the government for not even considering the people of this county! Harper was elected....LIVE WITH IT! Til its actual time to vote again.

Eric from Montreal
said

I don't know what all this talk is about this being "non-democratic." Maybe some of you should re-take politics 020, or 10th grade civics class; this is parliamentary democracy, not a republican system, and it is within the power of the legislature to form a coalition. Harper's finance plan was not supported by the house and they are forming a broad consensus (with the Quebec issue sidelined)on the future of Canada.

This is exciting!
This is democracy at its best!

Alone in the West
said

The cost of another election will be petty cash in comparison to what we, in the West, stand to lose. To sit on the fence (take heed Mr. Stalmach) would be very unwise. We are soon to be left without any representation.....
The majority of Albertans are furious..... a coalition IS NOT ACCEPTABLE. If this is what our parlimentary process can do(not represent all of Canadians) then CHANGE IT!!!

Cara Ottawa
said

The coalitions that work in other countries campaigned as coalition parties and were voted in as coalition parties at the time of the election. They were up front about their intentions and the voters could choose coalition or not at the polls. This Lib/NDP coalition was not formed pre-election, voters were not informed of this intention when they went to vote, and that is what's undemocratic.

Shawn
said

As memory serves, 0% of Canadians voted for a coalition party supported by a separatist faction. Why do we even bother going to the polls if the results can be discarded this easily? And we wonder why voter turnout is so low�This is ridiculous, regardless of the parties involved. If you agree, I urge you to write to Michelle Jean and let her know this is unacceptable. If the Liberals, NDP, and Bloc are going to force us down this road, the ONLY option is another vote.
Her Excellency the Right Honourable Micha�lle Jean
Governor General of Canada
Rideau Hall
1 Sussex Drive
Ottawa, Ontario
K1A 0A1
No postage is necessary, the salutation is Excellency. If our voices cannot be heard through the electoral system, make them heard this way.

Bev Mittlefehldt
said

First things first - the economy isn't falling apart. Sure southwestern Ontario has some problems, but that is not "The Economy". People who are losing their jobs are not, for the most part losing them right now, so we have some time.
No point in doing too much til we know what Obama is going to do - he can say what he wants, but they have a strong majority and can do whatever they want - sorta like 3 elections in which the Liberals promised to abolish the gst.
The coalition will take every bit as long as the conservative to come up with a plan, so we gain nothing and we may lose Alberta and the billions they pour into our economy.

Moi
said

Most of you people don't get it do you? Mr Harper bought this on himself. All he had to do was prove that he could work with the other parties and none of this would have happened. He has a MINORITY GOVERNMENT and he can't act like he's got a majority. So yes, this coalition is legal and constitutional. It worked in Ontario in the 80's and it'll work again now.

Fairness for ALL
said

Last I checked Layton only won 40% of his riding. He doesn't even have the majority of his own riding. and 1.1 billion in transfer payments so the Block will join thier circus.!!!!!!

In fact I didn't see Paul Martin or Jean Chretein etc on any ballot sheets. Why are they even involved...Oh yea same old Lieberal corruption, new faces same LIES.

I also didn't see any UNIONS running in the last election, yet they seem to be dictating this mess.

Rozanne Croft, Abbotsford, B.C.
said

The grasp for power by the Liberals and NDP is undemocratic and unethical. No good can come out of this coalition. The people of Canada expressed their wishes of who should lead the government in the last election. What has transpired over the last couple of weeks is extremely disappointing and alarming.

Stella Coyell
said

I am disgusted that the Liberal and NDP parties are willing to sell their souls in order to gain power. I am sure these two parties are not concerned with what's best for Canada when they can join hands with a party that is dedicated to the breakup of Canada.

Perhaps someone should tell these parties that the Conservatives were elected (even though a minority government) by the citizens of Canada and as such should at least be given a decent period to govern our great country. Mr. Dion should never be the Prime Minister of Canada as was indicated by the last election when the people spoke.

I think an election should be called so the people of Canada can have their say.

I am ashamed that Canadians are being put in this position and today I am not proud to be a Canadian.

David
said

A simple solution - I say let the leaders of the parties battle it out on Guitar Hero!

Fred Harvey
said

If the Liberals and NDP believed they had the true support of Canadians, they would simply vote the government down and let the people decide in another election. They know they would lose (again), and instead are trying to seize power by way of an improbable and unworkable alliance.

Ed. Dunchurch
said

Joel Campbell. Petrolia

An outstanding analysis of the situation.

If the coalition are so confident of their position, they should have no fear of going to the Canadian People for approval.

Corrie
said

Hope his little speech doesn't interrupt Coronation Street which is much more interesting.

adama in Ottawa
said

Canadian citizens elect their MP's. You have all voted for your MP's and your MP's aren't going anywhere. I think most of you do not know the difference between the MP's you vote for and cabinet ministers. If more than half the mp's you all voted for in teh last election are against the current minority conservative government, then the government has lost the confidence of the house and it's ability to govern. You should all read this link (www.parl.gc.ca/information/library/idb/forsey/parl_gov_02-e.asp) and increase your knowledge of Canada's constitutional monarchy and particularly MINORITY GOVERNMENTS. This will help you understand what is going to happen next.

Cathy Brighton, ON
said

This is a very sad time to be a Canadian. I am absolutely disturbed and disgusted by what is happening in our government. We have just had an election and the Conservatives won maybe with a minority but more seats that in the previous election. The Liberals had there lowest showing in how many years?? Layton and Dion are looking to make a name for themselves and are acting totally irresponsible and making Canada look absolutely foolish.To include the Bloc Quebecois who have said this will assist in separating from Canada.

I hope that GG has the common sense to end this charade and sees Jack, Stephane and Gilles for what they really are untrustworthy.

Joe B.
said

How dare you, Mr. Harper.

There you go agian, wasting the Taxspayer money to place Ads and Air time to tell Canadains that you are the best choice.
Give it Up. You made mistake with the flarety report, and you not willing to take the heat as you should. The coaliton only have the best interests of canadains in mind. Do you, really???

Joe

Jim Smith
said

Conservatives have really shown their true colours as of late. I cannot believe that a party would go to such lengths to not lose "power" that wasn't "Given" to them in the first place. It was given to a group of 308 MPs. I agree I'd be upset if this happened to the Liberal party, however I nor would most of my fellow Liberal supporters say anything like the hate crimes you have all spouted. How about you just leave my country, we don't like nor want people like you here anyways....bigots

Al in Calgary
said

Steven Harper won the most seats in the last election but he did not win a majority government so he did not win the election, so the election is not being hijacked. The conservatives keep saying the Bloc has vito power, they don't, if the Liberal/NDP coalition puts forward a budget or a bill and the Bloc vote against it the conservatives can support it if they think it is good for Canada.

There is no veto power in Canada. Its almost like the conservatives don't understand the Canadian Parliamentary system. Harper certainly doesn't undertand how a minority government has to work. He got away with being a bully for awhile but as with all bad behaviour, it eventually catches up with you.

It's Legally Right, And Morally Wrong
said

I voted for PM Harper and am therefore very upset about what is happening in Ottawa. Having said that, I understand that a coalition government is legal and represents the way our system is set up to work.

My problem is this. I could understand Mr. Dion doing this if he had only lost by a few seats. In that case he could argue that he had almost the same support of Canadians as Harper. But this man had the worst electoral result in the history of the Liberal party. He doesn't have nearly the number of seats that Harper has, and his party acknowledged the need to completely renew the party from the ground up. Now they feel they should lead the country?

It is legal, and it is constitutionally correct. But it is morally wrong for this failed politician, who was told in no uncertain terms by the voters that he was not their choice, to make this plan to attain the PM position. He has caused incredible upheaval for his own need for power.

Disgusting.

Susan Calgary
said

Let's be clear on this. Harper's proposed cutback of 30 million was not an attempt to bankrupt the Liberal party. The Liberal party did that to themselves. In the last election they received the lowest number of votes since 1921 - Who among us wants to fund a party that can't seem to come up with even one good policy to attract voter funding.

Harper was attempting to show that he is aware that we will all need to tighten our purse strings during these trying economic times, not just the Canadian people but our Federal Government as well.

Let's hope Larry, Curly and Moe never get the chance again to pretent to care about this country.

Patrick (from Montr�al)
said

Huh? Do you even understand what the Bloc does? I think you need to read up on facts before saying that...it makes NO sense.

Reply to:

Quebec foreigners should not run Canada
The separatists claim to be citizens of another country. Why should the GG allow them to have political power within Canada?

Matt from the Peg
said

We don't elect the Prime Minister or the party in power, only the MP we want representing our riding. Without a majority, coalitions of MP's can form and choose the Prime Minister they want from the available MP's.

The last majority government in Canada was the 2000 Liberals. They had 172 of the 301 seats at the time which automatically made Chretien the uncontested Prime Minister of Canada.

We now have 308 seats, and no party since has had the 154 seats required to form a majority government. Stephen Harper has relied on other parties to push through his agenda ever since he's been in power, and his role as Prime Minister has always been up for grabs by other parties if they could manage to agree with each other.

The conservatives operate from the center-right of the spectrum, all of the parties are centre-left or left in comparison. It's more natural for the other parties to get together than it is for the Conservatives because their ideology is more similar.

Additionally, the majority of Canadians did not vote for the Conservatives. In fact, quite a few of them voted "Anything But Conservative", yet the Conservatives ended up in power.

I'm happy the Conservatives are being forced out of power, I'm in that majority of Canadians who didn't vote Conservative and didn't want them in power.

Sick of the Bloc
said

The first solution to this problem: strip the BLOC of their national party status and change the mandate. If you do not have a candidate running in every province and territory then you do not qualify as a national party. If Quebec doesn't feel like it's getting served properly then they can elect each individual MP as an independent. I personally have no interest in EVER handing a balance of power to a party from one province, regardless of what legitimate party is in control of the government.

mag
said

I must have missed something. It seems to me that after proposing cuts to paychecks of those sitting in the house living off of our money and not suffering from the economic crisis, all hell broke loose. This is Jack Layton's chance at power which he will never win in an election, it's a chance for Dion to rule which he would never have otherwise and it is the chance for the Bloc party to mock Canadians by being given power in Canadian politics when they only hold power in Quebec and don't even care about the rest of Canada. The government of Canada is not much more than a joke at this point. This is what happens when you ask them to start playing with their own money and not just with ours.

e.james
said

oh goody.....tonight we get yet another bedtime story from the emperor with no clothes

Island Girl
said

This coalition was in the works right after the election that the 3 wingnuts are chosing to ignore. An election should be called with the PCs, Greens and the coalition on the ballot. No libs, no NDP and no Bloc. Then we shall see how these spoiled little brats fare. Once Steven has a majority, strip the taxpayers funding to the political parties to offset the cost of a new election.

Tom
said

"Doug
Harper speaks of a power grab. -What was his move to gut the opposition funding all about then?- Certainly not a move to build trust. He blew it and these are the consequences. He will try to take his ball and go home but his days are limited now."

First of all, he was not gutting opposition funding, he was gutting political party funding - including the conservative party.

Secondly, it really is time to reopen the constitution. The fact that a province specific party can hold a veto on federal issues is rediculous. The Bloc represents the provincial issue and the removal of that province from confederation, a provincial issue - they should be in provincial politics, not federal.

If a party wants to be in federal politics they should be required to run in every riding, or at least a percentage of the ridings of every province and territory.

Unfortunatly, thats not the way it is now. For the sake of all Canadians, these power happy politicians should all grow up!

Harper - you don't have a majority, stop thinking like you do.

Dion- you have been rejected by the Canadian public, and your own party, you have no right to be prime minister.

Layton- aren't you supposed to be in a meeting with the taliban?

Duceppe- Take your provincial matters to the people of Quebec and quit trying to ruin the rest of the country.

J-P. Christopher Jackson
said

An Open Letter: Law and Good Goverment

The Right Honourable Prime Minister
Stephen Harper

Dear Prime Minister,

The title of your office includes the word "honourable". Given that you, and you alone have plunged your own party into disarray, tossed Parliament into chaos, renewed a National unity crisis by your truculent references to the elected representatives of the Province of Quebec (who incidentally have propped up your previous minority government on occasional, and with whom you were fully prepared to work to end the minority government of Paul Martin), lied to the Canadian people about your "mandate" to manage the economic crisis (not even a factor on the radar of the previous election), and demonised the opposition with a bald-faced lie about the coalition's news conference and the Canadian Flag, there is only one legitimate course of action open to you if you are indeed to be "honourable": and that is to resign as Prime Minister and as leader of the Conservative Party of Canada. This is the only hope for your own party, allowing a new leader to face the judgement of Parliament, and bring a rapid conclusion to the current instability. An "honourable" man would do this. All previous Prime Ministers when faced with somewhat similar circumstances have acted honourably and stepped aside. Are you to be the only leader in Canadian history NOT to do so?

Kev in T.O.
said

I think instead of an election we should just have a referendum with the simple question:

Who is best fit to lead Canada for the next 24 months beginning Jan 1, 2009?
A. Stephen Harper & The Conservative Party of Canada
B. The Coalition of Liberal and NDP with support from the Bloc Quebecois

It would probably save us millions in election costs.

M. Reid, Oshawa
said

This is the only way that the NDP could ever be in the position of leading this country in Jack Layton's lifetime...even though he would be the voice behind Stephane Dion, which in my opinion is why he is in a hurry to get the coalition going now, before Dion retires his position as leader of the Liberal party.
We are on the brink of a recession, and he doesn't want Harper to start cutting waste in the federal gov. He doesn't even want to get in on the discussions about it. This is his only chance to run things.

T Sanders
said

The coalition's solution to Canada's economy:
30 billion dollars (a number picked out of thin air)
No idea how it is going to be spent (that will be determined down the road)
No idea how it will help (that will be determined down the road)
No idea of where it will come from (that will be determined down the road)
No idea of whether it will be effective or not (history will determine that)
No idea if they will have to spend more, and if so, how much, when, and where from?

This is a stimulus plan? A big number with a bunch of question marks?

This is like giving a 10 year child a million dollars then telling him, �go and spend it wisely.�

The Bloc already knows what it's getting...a big number with a bunch of zeros behind it.

This is a coalition of egos and ignorance, but is ready to spend whatever it takes to get into power.

Michelle
said

Let's not forget why this whole stupid coalition started...because our PRIME MINISTER wanted to introduce a bill that would cut campaign funding...campaign funding that was arbitrarily doubled by Jean Chretien of the LIBERALS during his time as PM...I mean...86% of the Bloc's campaign funding comes from THE CANADIAN TAXPAYOR!!!..Also..let's please not forget how the Liberals under Peirre Trudeau put forward the National Energy Program which basically bankrupted ALberta within months...all it was , was a massive wealth transfer to the East...Let's let Stephen Harper have the same chance to govern as the last thirty chances the Liberals have gotten..

Wally in Lantz NS
said

All the pro coalition fans seem to forget that this whole scheme has NOTHING to do with ecomomic stimulus. The plot was hatched by Layton right after the election. He is at his sleazy best in this drama. The conservatives have indicated they will hsve massive investment in infrastructure which the coalition is calling for. They will refrain from throwing money at the auto sector until that sector's reform plans are clear and the Big Three decisions are made in the USA. A proper procedure for our government. The Liberals are being duped by the "master used car salesman" Layton and will live to regret their power grab in the next election - in 1 month or 18 months.

Jim from the Kawarthas
said

Interesting. . .
-how little we Canadians know about our system of Government.
- how the real problem with a possible solution is turned into a E vs. W / French vs English arguement.

I had always thought we as Canadians have desired good government - which this can give us - given a chance.

I think that this is a situation that can make or break political careers - in the case of the would be coalition, if they succeed in getting the country back on its feet . . . in the case of the PM ???? If the coalition comes about then the only old faces we may see will be Jack and Gilles.

Kay
said

Stephane, Jack, and Gill. If you really concen about Canadians and our economy, you should all put forward and help our PM to get through this difficult times rather than dragging him out from the job. Your act will be remembered by your Canadians! If there are any patriots within NDP and Liberals, they should stand up and say "NO"!!

Blake
said

I'd really like to know why this troika and its supporters are so afraid to let the Canadian people decide if they want this socialist/seperatist alliance to run this country in an election? If you want seperatists involved- its got to have the consent of the Canadian people first.

James Joseph in Toronto
said

Another $300 million election is welcomed to give the Conservatives a long-overdue majority. Hardworking Canadians deserve a legitimate democratically elected government led by an experienced economist during these challenging times rather than a pathetic and illegitimate collection of undemocratic losers.

shade
said

call an election

Patrick de Montr�al
said

This is all too funny. Are people angry with the fact that the Cons will lose power? That the Liberals will get power? Or that the EVIL and mean Bloc monsters will grab power and cause the seperation of Qu�bec from Canada?!

I see people writing comments that insult Qu�becers and our RIGHT to vote for who they want. I was against the plan, but after hearing Harper's arrogance I am starting to hope for it. I DID NOT vote Liberal or Cons, I voted NDP...and thats the last time I do it. Back to the Bloc next time.

Ohh and for those who have issues understanding fundamentals:

BQ "Bloc Qu�becois" FEDERAL PARTY -- Has NO legal ability to hold a referendum

PQ "Part-Qu�becois" PROVINCIAL party, have EVERY right to hold one if it wants to.

It appears that some still think the Bloc can somehow cause seperation....pffft

Someone said before...I am French Canadian....you want to revive the referendum question? Keep up these comments..... yoru doing a GREAT job...teh BQ and PQ can sit back and enjoy the ride....

Karl from GTA
said

My Two Bits Worth says:

"If you break down the seats per province;
Alberta 27 Conservative seats , 1 NDP seat , 0 Liberal and 0 BQ
BC 22 Conservative seats , 5 liberal and 9 NDP
Sask 13 Conservative seats , 1 Liberal , 0 NDP and ) BQ
Manitoba 9 Conservative seats , 4 NDP , 1 Liberal and 0 BQ"

and

"Does this coalition of three stooges represent ALL of CANADA or just Ontario and Quebec?

Looking at the numbers above, it appears that only two provinces are represented."

Unfortunately, you missed your geography lesson. Canada ALSO INCLUDES P.E.I., New Brunswick, Nova Scotia, Newfoundland and Labrador, Yukon Territory, Iqalauit, and North West Territory.

If you want to promote Steve as a legitimate representation, it appears he only has support in the Prarie provinces and B.C. Hardly the support of ALL OF CANADA as you suggest.

GG, let the coalition give it a shot. It certainly can't be any worse than what the CONS have done so far and it will show financial responsibility by not wasting taxpayers money on another unneeded election!

Javier Garcia
said

Her Excellency the Right Honourable Micha�lle Jean, C.C., C.M.M., C.O.M., C.D.
Governor General of Canada

Your Excellency:

As a new Canadian Citizen of our great country, allows me to express my deeply frustration of what is happening in Ottawa.

If this non-sense situation keeps going affecting every citizen, our economy, stability and international image, and we will end with a coalition government which nobody voted for it, that will be a great opportunity to start considering creating the Western Block and forming our own country completely separated from Canada. Let us keep taking non-sense actions in Ottawa forcing us to motivate separatism. Quebec could be an independent country, Alberta and Saskatchewan another independent country, and I am positive that the Maritimes provinces will follow the trend as well as British Columbia.

To keep our country, Canada, as a real and united country with real democracy, let us go for new elections, and let us change elections rules. One vote = one count. That is really and proper democracy which will motivate Canadians to practice their right of vote.

Sincerely yours,
Javier Garcia
Calgary, Alberta

GR
said

Is Stephane Dion that much wanting to use his "Carbon tax" and the other taxes that they might have up there sleeves? Is that why they have formed a coalition government? All of these people are all actors.

Peter Rapsey
said

It really is simple. The Prime Minister must have the confidence of the House. You can get it two ways - through gaining a majority at the polls (which Harper did not), or by gaining it through working with the other parties (which Harper did not). It is now time for someone else to give it a go. Why keep it for 2 months as the result will be the same and the country needs action now. Mr. Harper's tears are self inflicted tears of a hypocrite who tried to do the same thing in 04.

Joanne from Northern Ontario
said

The beauty of a democracy is that the majority always wins - that is the difference between a democracy and an autocracy, Mr. Harper!
Tsk Tsk! Mike Duffy your "penchant bleu" is showing a bit too much on this one...
PM Harper and Mr. Flaherty are like 2 school boys who are trying to pedal backwards after being caught without their homework done. The conservatives are furiously trying to fudge and gloss over the lack of substance in their economic assignment - they get no respect from me! Their assignment has turned into the final exam and they have failed miserably !

Where is Mr. Harper's blue sweater from the election campaign? He would have been wiser to wear it and roll up his sleeves to work on an economic plan with substance, rather than maintain his Ivory Tower posture and arms-length aloofness which I now believe will never change.
I am insulted as a Canadian that after waiting for almost 2 months since the election for a stimulus package that energizes, we are asked to wait another 2 months for the budget(that's 4 months total in my books) while we wait for leadership from the conservatives!!!
Enough! As I said at the beginning, the beauty of a democracy is that the majority always wins...thank goodness!

Chris in Winnipeg
said

Good call, I�d like a party who�s main agenda has nothing to do with Canada, but everything to do with their own province, as people making decisions for Canadians.

Just goes to show what people will agree to for more power.

I have never been more embarrassed to be Canadian.

Concerned Canadian
said

Gilles Duceppe is a separatist. Jack Layton is a socialist. Dion scares me... Sounds like a great team to lead our country... Canada's economy will only get worse when we introduce political uncertainty into the mix. I hope everyone comes to their senses and allows Canada to remain a democratic country.

Mathieu in Newcastle
said

If there was another election, would we still have a televised debate with 4 people representing the coalition (Dion, Layton, Duceppe and May) voicing against Harper and wonder why Harper is on the defensive? Call an election, have the debate one on one! Why would I want the coalition give handouts to the forestry and car company? What will more money do to them if nobody buys a car or a house in Canada or the States? Spend the money on infrastructure and get the economy rolling.

Nan
said

I was not given an opportunity,nor was the rest of the country, to vote on whether or not the Bloc would have a seat in the House of Commons.This privilege was given only to Quebecers.So why is it, that the rest of Canada now has to be subjected to having the Bloc form part of a coalition and governing body! This is insane! The Bloc's whole mandate is to separate from Canada-to destroy Canada as we know it. If the Bloc were given the opportunity to run federally, does any one think for one minute that it would have even one seat in the House of Commons!

Seriously, fellow Canadians, get with it. Our Prime Minister acted like an autocrat and should have consulted the people and the house. However, that being said, his foolish actions should not end in this fiasco! In my humble opinion, the Bloc is a treasonous party allowed by the rest of Canada to exist on a federal level and to have seats in the federally represented House of Commons even though they are only able to be voted on by the one province- Quebec! This says one thing - fine to have the Bloc within the confines of Quebec, but it should not be within the governing fabric of an overall Canada. This situation is prime example of this. The Bloc is for a free and separate country of Quebec. The Bloc is not for the survival of Canada! We are a very stupid lot if we for one minute let this party exist on a federal level any longer when not all Canadians can vote on whether we want them or not. Layton and Dion have acted with disregard for the rest of Canadians and Canada.

MRC in Hamilton
said

The simplest & most accurate analogy to those who are a part of this absurd "62% majority who didn't vote for Stephen Harper":

Take our own Canadian Football League (CFL) as an example. Let's say the Hamilton Tiger-Cats win the Grey Cup (side note: as hilarious as that is) over the Toronto Argonauts, whom both defeated the Calgary Stampeders and the Winnipeg Bluebombers in the previous round. This "62% majority" & this coalition would be like the Argos, Stampeders, & Bombers getting together, whining & saying that they deserve the Grey Cup collectively because they scored more points in those 2 games...WHICH IS RIDICULOUS!!!! To top it off, one of the whiners would publicly declare that their coalition would support their "sovereignty" desires to leave the CFL...

THIS COALITION IS A DISGRACE TO GOOD GOVERNANCE IN A PARLIAMENTARY DEMOCRATIC CIVILIZATION.

Denice
said

This whole situation is ridiculous. We just had an election, and obviously Dion and Layton were not the people's choice. Now, by making back room deals and offering God knows what to Quebec, we will have our collective democratic right to choose taken away. It's no wonder the turn out to vote is so abysmal in this country.

People feel their vote doesn't make a difference and we are seeing this may very well be true. Also, as an Albetan, I am tired of feeling like a second class citizen in Canada. Alberta is in a good financial position because of the hard work and sacrifice of the people who live here, not thanks to politicians in the East who can't wait to rape our wealth .

DB - Winnipeg
said

The PM never tried to install a coalition government in 2004. He stated that he entered into an agreement with the NDP and Bloc to vote down the Martin government. Big difference - what Harper tried to do would have triggered an election - what these clowns are trying is steal the electorates vote away!

Stew Fettes, Regina, Sask.
said

Defeated Liberal leader Stephen Dion is sowing the seeds of "irreparable" damage to the Liberal Party of Canada. Still terribly hurt after suffering a humiliating defeat for the Liberal Party, along with being openly dumped by the Liberal heirarchy, he is leading Canada down the road to "Anarchy" if there twisted plan should succeed. There is "no exit" for what he has done now.

Willfully setting in place a coalition of "Socialists" like the CCF/NDP and The Block, will allienate intelligent thinking Liberals away from their own party and leave them with a feeling of betrayal for cementing a relationship with "Socialism". The Liberals tried that in Saskatchewan, and now there are "no more Liberals".

Trevor Knox Millar, Winnipeg
said

I'm and independent. Apparently, what all these people jumping on the coalition of losers' bandwagon fail to see is that they don't agree on policy, how much do you think they will actually accomplish? And the Bloc, well they showed their true colors on Tuesday, didn't they? I fail to see how anything that furthers the Bloc's mandate to break up this country can be good for it. And we really need to get off of this "majority didn't vote for the Cons" thing. I don't recall seeing a "Liberal, NDP, Bloc Coalition Party" box on my ballot when I voted 6 weeks ago. The fact is, this was pre-meditated, it didn't matter what the Cons did, the coaltion of sore losers were planning this prior to the last election, each of them knowing full well that they had little or no chance of winning a free democratic election, which is how democratic nations choose their leaders. The Canadian people choose who leads this country, or used to anyway. We should also face the facts - In this difficult economic time, our system is stronger than most, apparently too many people are watching CNN instead of Newsnet.

Chris , Nova Scotia
said

Are you kidding me?

6-7 weeks ago, Canadians voted for a Democratic minority Conservative Government. We obviously said we are not quite ready for a majority government, but Mr. Harper please proceed. So without waiting to hear what will be announced in the budget, we will be faced with a Authoritarian majority New Liberal Separatist party. Free reign for at least 18 months. How crazy is this? How many billions is this going to cost us? I hope that the GG will use some common sense and not allow such a takeover to occur. At least let us vote on our new two party system.

Peggie
said

CALL AN ELECTION: I do not want the PQ to hold the balance of power in my country. I do not want my taxpayer money going to support the PQ. THis was a LIBERAL ploy if John Chretein to hobble Paul Martin. It was wrong then and it is wrong now. If you wish to support your party do it with you wallet not mind. Taxpayer money is really what this is all about.

Steve Daly, Mississauga
said

This whole mess has nothing to do with the economy, even a complete idiot knows that Canada can't take meaningful action until after Obama's inauguration.

This is all about being 'entitled to our entitlements'. For the Liberals that means many things including being entitled to live with one hand firmly ensconced in the cookie jar and unfettered access to the perks that come with being the forming the Government.

Hold an election and vote Conservative... send a clear message that playing games to maintain your own perks instead of dealing with the Country's issues is unacceptable!

Western Seperatist in Vancouver (US wannabe maybe)
said

to quote "John
The majority of Canadians didn't vote for ya Steve. Tough luck."

Well, guess what John, the majority of Canadians didn't vote for Dion, the majority of Canadians sure didn't vote for Layton and nor for Duceppe and for that matter, the majority of Candians didn't vote for me. Does this give me the right to be the next PM?

Your logic is all wet my friend.

Dr William Klein
said

While our system of democratic government is more-or-less understood to be �majority rules�, it is a fallacy to believe that the combined opposition is, necessarily, a majority the same way that a governing party can be a majority if it has more than 50% of the seats. It might best be a play-upon-words.

In the current situation confronting Canada, if we analyze the results of the 40th General Election held in October, we see that while the Conservative Party elected 143 members, falling only 10 seats short of an absolute majority, the individual opposition parties fared rather badly.

The Bloc Quebecois, which doesn�t have any interest in Canada at all, except to suck money from the rest of the country until Quebec separates, was rejected by 90% of the population. They are 103 seats short of a majority. The NDP was rejected by 82%, making them 116 seats short of a majority; and the Liberals by 74%, or 77 seats short of a majority.

It is a specious argument that, combined, these three parties represent the majority of the population. What they do represent is only their narrow interests, and the failure of their platforms to develop traction among those who voted.

Consequently, joining together and ganging up on the party that was supported by 38% of the population � at least 11% more than the next closest party � is not, it seems to me, really the democratic way.

The Governor General might suggest, in the event that the opposition succeeds in defeating the government in a non-confidence motion, that Mr. Harper have another go at trying to present a budget and a program to Parliament, rather than let the �troika� of losers take over and make things worse.

It would be relatively easy, and perhaps smart, for Mr. Harper to adopt one policy initiative of one of the other parties, either the Liberals or the NDP, and present it as his government�s policy. Surely the party whose idea he adopts would be very hard-pressed to vote against his government in that circumstance, without losing a lot of credibility itself. And thus, a majority in the House could be achieved.

The opposition can hardly be said to have presented a platform to Canadians and have that platform approved by the people. What kind of back-room deals were made? We don�t know, and we wouldn�t know until it is too late. Is this what Canada has deteriorated into? Since when do we get a government whose platform, policies, ideas, and plans are totally hidden from the people they propose to govern?

It is futile to point to the individual platforms of the NDP and the Liberals from the last election, because they were soundly rejected by the majority of the people of this country. For them to trot out those rejected policies isn�t a step forward, it is two steps backward. To conjure up new plans without letting the people know what those policies might be before taking power is exactly a coup d�etat, under the illusion that it is democratic.

Wake up, Canada. Something dangerous is very likely to happen if this crazy idea is permitted to move forward.

Perhaps the people should pronounce its verdict in a new general election. To allow the gang-of-three to usurp power under the guise of having a so-called �majority� is to permit, not majority rule, but the tyranny of the minorities. And that is not how democracy works.

Dr. William Klein,
London ON

A. Nielsen
said

The Conservatives should never have been in power. It is well known that most of the people in the Conservative party are right-wing Christians and make no bones about it, and it's more than obvious that those values are being pushed upon all Canadians regardless of most Canadian religious beliefs. What is really disturbing is that everyone that is highly conservative sees what is happening is unconstitutional and non-democratic, but face the facts... this is democracy, only 37% of the seats are Conservative, that leaves the other 63% up to the rest of the other parties which are a representative of the people of voters who do not want the Conservatives in power.

A minority government is just that, a minority. The other parties are questioning Mr. Harper's agenda and his inability to lead Canadians through this economic crisis. Mr. Harper says this is unethical, unconstitutional, and that the Liberals and the NDP should have talked to him first rather than "secret backdoor meetings". Mr. Harper, you shouldn't be trying to stall the democratic process and taking cheap shots at the people who are there to look out for the best interests of the political process.

As for the Governor General, it's time for her to shine, let the democratic process take place and make sure that the will of the majority of Canadians be heard.

Robin
said

The power-hungry buffoon of a PM will shortly be booted from office regardless if Parliament is prorogued. The GG will likely not call another costly election. To all CONBOTS, what have they done to stimulate the economy? NOTHING. Where is our surplus? USED TO BUY VOTES. Democracy and Hubris at its finest!

Peeved in Hamilton
said

Oh if we only lived in a perfect society.
Obviously as a voting Canadian my vote did not count, the message being sent to me is that I want your tax money but that is all, I don't care about you other than the fact that I am a paying member of society.
So maybe I will drop out of this society and live in the woods somewhere with my warm fuzzy feeling on what as a canadian I really want.

Good luck to the rest of you I am starting my hike!!!

Jack Fallis Ottawa
said

It may be legal but not right
It is difficult to believe we are close to having a manage et trois as a government.It is time for everyone to let our politicians know where we stand.As for Harper-I hope these recent decisions are not an example of his everal inteligence

Glen
said

For all you people indicating you represent the majority with Stephen Harper, you don't. You represent 37% of the voters.

Harper is a bad leader unwilling to compromise with anyone or do anything when decision must be made. He's all spin, and the attack ads prove it. He's playing you all for idiots and you're proving him correct.

The 3 leaders represent 67% of the country, how hard is that to understand?

This is democracy at it's best.

Remember when Harper called out the other parties for not defeating him in a non-confidence vote (multiple times) and gloated about it?

Who has egg on their face now.

Connie of Saskatchwan
said

One good thing that has come out of our governments behaviour is Canadians are finally paying attention to there country.
As for who voted who is also childish, we are a free country and can vote for who we would like to govern our country.
Do we want the Liberals, NDP and Bloc to run our country? Are we forgetting what they have done to us in the past and now they are going to hand out 30 Billion dollars, where are they getting that from, us the tax payers. Why not get rid of all the CEO's of the major companies and then those companies would have money to continue running.
All of this hog wash is a big power trip with the Liberals,NDP,BLOC.
The reason that we are in this situation is do to greed of all not one but all.There is no compassion within humans, the compassion is the all mighty dollar and who can out do who.
We all need to be ashamed, wake up people and look at what you need not what you feel you HAVE to have. Live with in your means and then we would not be in this situation.

Greg Burgoon
said

Im sorry, but this whole "power grab" angle that the conservatives are trying to push against the coalition is just plain hypocritical. They just tried to pass something that CUT FUNDING FOR THE OPPOSITION PARTIES!! Thats basically what started this whole thing. Harper is just trying to put himself in a better position of power. If anything, he is the one doing the power grab. He's done stuff like this before, and the opposition has sat back and taken it.........but not anymore. A coalition is what is needed to shut down harper and his authoritarian government. Part of democracy is the multi-party system, that tries to capture the views of all Canadians. If anything, the coalition is MORE democratic than the current government. QED.

Patrick
said

Everybody in the coalition or the Conservatives has been elected as an MP. Only the party with the most seat forms the government. The coaliton is essentially one party now.

gordon from Toronto
said

The current leaders of the three political parties have clearly demonstrated that they are more interested in their own personal gains than the good of the country. Don�t they know that the world, including this country is in an economic crisis while they are wrapped up in heated discussions on who gets more power?

On second thoughts, perhaps it is a blessing that they found something to keep themselves preoccupied than trying to run the country and messing it up even more.

Within the last 60 days, the VAST majority of Canadians voted against Stephane Dion and his party asked him to step down, now against the better judgment of all these people, he tries to maneuver his way to becoming the next PM. What�s wrong with this picture?

Let�s fire all three cronies and start fresh with three politicians who are more interested in the welfare of our country than their own.

F. Bakker
said

We, Canadians, consider ourselves democratic, civilised and politically organised. We look at places like Thailand and go tsk,tsk, what do you expect from an politically unstable country? No wonder Canada had issued a travel advisory.
Now look what's happening here: when the non ruling parties are unhappy about the popular vote resulting from an election they start scheming how they can get into power via the backdoor. We will have demonstrations and angry canadians who feel they have been betrayed.(which they are)
I would dread to see a prime minister whose mouth gets all twisted and gets red in the face when he does not quite get his way!
I thought his party agreed he should resign cause he was partially (if not greatly) the reason of the dismal results for the liberals at election time??
F.B.

Donna Fitzgerald Napanee,Ontario
said

I cannot believe this "coup" is happening in Canada..If this were happening in some other part of the world, we would would be outraged!! We, the people, voted with confidence to have Stephen Harper as our Prime Minister. How, then can Stephan Dion, who as the Liberal party "leader" had the poorest showing in recent Canadian History (during the Federal election), team up with a "leader" interested only in separating Quebec from the rest of Canada -- and decide amongst themselves that somehow they would be better suited as the Leader of Canada. This gives me no feeling of security that something of this magnitude can happen without even consulting the people these politicians represent!

Wendy In Montreal
said

Our Prime Minister went to the g20 meetings and he knows what needs to be done but he's firm on what Canada will do to protect our sovereignty. Understand that not one of these 3 parties is acting in the best interests of canadians.Do you think for a minute in the midst of a crisis these 3 care about us. No just themselves and the unions and car manufacturers. This is their priority. An election is the only democratic way to have the people chose once again. Hopefully this time we'll get it right. Our lives depend on it.

John
said

I personally have always voted for Liberals no matter what BUT this is the last straw ... I have now VOWED to vote Conservative ... What Gilles, Stephane and Jack have done is NOT acceptable ... The Canadian People put Mr. Harper as Prime Minister, their votes should be respected!!!!!!

Quebec foreigners should not run Canada
said

The separatists claim to be citizens of another country. Why should the GG allow them to have political power within Canada?

Anne-Marie
said

I understand that the Conservative won the election, but Harper blew it. He has no one to blame but himself for this. Good thing the conservative have lots of money in the piggybank to pay for this new ad campaign. Like as if he actually cares what Canadians think.Ha! All he cares about is power and how it can benefit him. What a loser.
And about his big outrage of yesterday. Funny how it was OK for him to get in bed with the NDP and Bloc in 2004 when he signed the same kind of letter with them to try and topple the Martin government but it not OK now for the Liberals to do the same. Guess Harper's rules only need to be followed when it benefits his power grab ambitions.

Amy, Toronto
said

Saying that the Conservative government has lost the confidence of the House in order to replace it with the coalition is just an excuse and a huge joke. Let's face it, opposition parties never had confidence in the Tories, mainly out of ideological reasons, but they didn't bring down the government before because it would mean an election and they had no confidence in themselves to actually win. Now that they could grab power without even asking the people if it's okay, of course they just can't wait to gang up and topple the government, even if it is democratically elected.

As for saying that the coalition represents more Canadians, how arrogantly presumptive! How can anyone be sure that a Liberal supporter would automatically vote for the NDP and vice versa? If these people had been presented with the choice of a LIB/NDP/Bloc coalition in the last election, who says they wouldn't have voted differently?

I say bring on another election so that people can cast their votes with clear choices in front of them - the Tories or the LIB/NDP/Bloc Coalition.

Political Junkie
said

I have read a number of comments here and found that something is missing. Correct me if I'm wrong but:

In 2004 Harper Tried to form a similar coalition to remove Paul Martin as PM. This is true but there is some differences between then and now. Harper was very public with his intentions and when he tried, people wern't surprised. In contrast Dion had on several occasions stated that no coalition is going to happen between Libs and NDP. Also stated bay all opposition Parties was cooperation with the government. Yet at the first sign of change (for better or worse is up to you) the coalition is formed. Also reports have shown NDP working on a coalition well before the election. There was no intention to cooperate here. Another difference between then and now is Paul Martin was on a downward slide in public opinion. The oposite is true of Harper shown in the last election with a NEAR Majority win.

If the coalition truly believe this is what Canadians want they should have stated as such during the election.

This is the reason why the coalition is undemocratic.

Bye Steve
said

J L C Halifax: best blog I have read in days. Nicely done.

I agree, 18 months of someone else is far better than 1 day of Steve Harper. Also, lets be clear here no won won the last election. I don't thinking being the minoity gov't makes you a winner.

We need a more balanced approach to gov't and Steve and the boys are not doing it. Move on Steve!

Mike
said

This whole thing is Harper's fault, he should have never called an election back in October, he should have just waited until the other parties took him down. Otherwise he looks like an idot in this mess, because he cost us the tax payers 300 million to end up with just a few seats more and still an minority government and still be crying that he can't get anything done. He also has pissed off a lot of public service staff by this no right to strike. What's the use of an collective aggreement if one side can exercise their right to strike? The auto industry is in a mess, maybe they should take away their rightto strike and lets see what the out come is. I praise the other oarties for standing up for the public, Either the conservatives or someone needs to take the reigns and lead this country. But Harper has to go. STEP DOWN HARPER.

Maggie from Alberta
said

Harper should resign after all that is said and done. Because of the government's non-economic statement, the Governor General and Parliament wouldn't in this position. He rolled the dice at a time when all regions of this country have little confidence in the economy.

To play the "separatist" card is unacceptable and will create further divisions across this country. We do not need this type of leadership at this time!

I like 68% of the voters did not vote for the conservative government. A minority government has been voted for in the past 3 elections. Canadians want the parties to work together to lead the country through some troubling times.

This is Harper's doing. He needs to undo this mess!

Darryl in Bible Hill NS
said

All I can say is that it's too bad more of Tory MP's can't be like Bill Casey and stand up to Harper's "one man show", maybe then we could get the economy back on track.

If we are required to go back to the polls, I say Bill Casey for PM !! Write it on your ballot Canada and it will happen.

We need someone with experience and someone we can trust!

Even with a Tory government, Harper has to go!

Wayne Hynes CANADIAN
said

I have never seen so many so called educated people. We have a minority goverment for a reason. Not enough people in this Great Country trusts Steven Harper and now you see why. He blatantly lies to Canadians for the sake of his political future. If it doesn't go his way he crys to the media and complains about the Seperatists, wait what was the Reform Party, an English speaking ALBERTA Party nothing more, If i've ever heard so much double speak it's from Alberta. What about Newfoundland they aren't Central Canada which it seems Albertans think is trying to upsurp the Government. Harper showed his true colours and he got slapped back, now he is crying to the populous, OMG grow up and be a man, take your lumps, if the co-olition doesn't work, Canadians will boot every one of you out, "EVENTUALLY.

Harper keeps going on about this co-olition but in 2005 he tryed the SAME thing. Now he's on the other end and he crys. And the GG has the right to refuse his tirade, it's a part of our history.

I'm not pure Liberal, NDP nor Concervative, i've always voted with whats best for Canada, and Harper your just another spoiled kid wannabe, no different that Mulroney and he got away with ROBBING Canadians for years, Airbus Included.

Nick in Gatineau
said

I hope the TV stations have also given airtime to the Coalition.

We are a democracy.

Let both sides have their say.

Ken
said

With due respect to the Parliamentary tradition, the problem with the Liberal/NDP coalition is that it relies on the Bloc Quebecois, a party that by definition and its raison d'etre is not loyal to Queen. As such, should Her Excellency Right Honourable Micha�lle Jean, Governor General of Canada, allow Stephane Dion to form a government with the support of the Bloc, she would be committing an act fundamentally inconsistent with the interests of the Queen that she represents. The only way Her Excellency could consider this coalition is if Duceppe is willing to renounce the goal of Quebec sovereignty. Anything less betrays the Queen and the country.

Maritimer
said

Let me explain this another way.

38% voted PC
26% voted Liberal
18% voted NDP
10% votes BQ
7% voted Green
1% other/ind

If I voted Liberal, that does not mean I support the BQ. If I voted NDP, that does not mean I support the Liberals. It's clear by the numbers that 75% of the country did NOT vote for Stephane Dion to run the country.

This is why Jean needs to force an election. If the coalition wants to run the country as a coalition, they can run one coalition candidate in each riding across the country against the Conservatives. Then we'd be guranteed a majority result.

Yes, technically people vote for their MP. If I support party X and want party X to lead the country, I'm not going to vote for party Y because I don't like my local candidate - I'd want my vote to count towards getting party X into power REGARDLESS of who is running in my riding.

I would think that most voters vote with the trust that the party they are voting for are not going to "pull a Stronach" and cross the floor, which is essentially what is happening right now, on a huge scale.

bren in ottawa
said

for those of you attemoting to justify this by drawing loose parralells between the current problems in the house nd the King/byng affair, mayebv you should re-read history as opposed to trying to rewrite it. Byng took power AWAY from a coalition government of liberals and progressives ...and gave it to the party who had the greatest number of votes from the people and held the most seats, because the coalition was nor representative of any particular party platform. Now we have a socialist party, a liberal party, and a seperatist party, all with conflicting ideologis, not voted in by the people. Let democracy rule. Either send us back to the polls or reaffirm the harper government as the rightful winners of the recent election. no matter what your political stripes, you cannot begin to argue that anything less is democratic.

garymccaig
said

In their lust for power Dion and Layton have handed to the Separatists more power than they ever dreamt of. As taxpayers we will be paying for the hopes, dreams and schemes of all three parties.

Tahsis in Squamish
said

Judging by almost all the comments I've seen and heard in the past 24 hours, I don't think Harper needs to convince Canadians about anything at all - it's the other political parties who are way out there! Most Canadians seem to want to give him the benefit of the doubt - check out all the polls and petitions going around. The political parties better pay attention to what WE want!

Brent Kaiser
said

If the people of this "coalition" think they can get away with this "coux" and not have any reprocusions then they are seriously mistaken and there will be the will of the people one way or another. They are committing political suicide.

Rod in NW Ontario
said

Bravo Steve in Yellowknife...you just said all the things that I and many other hardworking Canadians think but were afraid to say...good job straight shooter.

Acroyear
said

I know exactly how our system works, and yes, Harper has lost the confidence of the house and MUST step down.

And yes, a coalition of parties has ruled in other countries...for both good and bad.

But then let the coalition run in an election! If 50%+1 of the people say yes, then THAT is democracy.

This back door unite AFTER the election to gain enough votes to seize power is NOT.

Especially not when you combine with a party of traitors! And lets stop the niceities okay? They are traitors to this country.

One of my grandfathers died in WW2, fighting beside good Canadian French who fought and died for this land. Two of my young nephews are off in Afghanistan at this moment, one of whom is proudly Canadian first, proudly French second.

The Bloc are traitors, and the slime that represents the Liberals and NDP have got into bed with them. The person who really holds the power in ANY coalition is the one who has the balance of needed votes...and that would be the Bloc!

Every single leader on the Hill is nothing but scum in my opinion.

But if they truly believe they have a mandate, then let another election happen and let them run as THIS coalition, as a single party and run a single party candidate in each riding, the one who won last time...that will stop the vote splitting. It would coalition versus Conservative. Whoever then wins, wins fair and square, and they then form the government.

I would still hate any coalition that includes these traitors to Canada, but the people would have spoken their minds, and that I could live with.

But this is NOT how the system is really supposed to work.

A proud Maritime!

Ralph S.
said

I wonder what other "behind closed door" concessions besides the additional $1B+ in transfer payments to Quebec were made to the Separatist Bloc Party were made in return for their support. Once the new Lib-Democratic Party is governing the country, the 60% of the Canadian population that supports this coalition will see who truly controls this coalition. The veil of improving the economy will be lifted and we will see what the power hungry Politicians true agenda was.

Jasn Austin
said

There was no mandate from Canadians in the last election for an NDP/Bloc/Liberal government.

This is too serious for legal flim-flam we need an election to see who Canadians really want!

Sharon of Toronto
said

To believe that 3 parties would try to oust the party that Canadians voted for is bizarre and criminal. It now appears that the leaders of the opposition parties have their own agenda and had no intentions of working with the current government. They no longer care about Canada and what the majority of Canadians want. I am ashame of the lot of them.

I think the GG should suspend the current sitting of the government and there should be a referendum to let the people of Canada decide if we want the colition. In addition I think that the colition should release the agreement that they all signed and that Stephane Dion should step down and an interim leader should be appointed until the Liberal party votes for a new leader prior to the referendum.

Hopefully the GG sees sense and does not allow this farce to go any further until we had a chance to vote for the colition or not.

Lindsay - Edmonton
said

While I know that the majority of Canadians didn't vote for Stephen Harper, I do know my liberal vote sure as hell didn't go to support anything to do with Layton or Duceppe. All their scheming has done is make me guarantee that if they do call another election, neither the liberals or the ndp will be receiving my vote.

Reza
said

The opposition coalition should create one single party with one leader so people can decide on the PM, so many fragmentation is a waste of time for opposition, tories and taxpayers(remember how much it costs to have an election and we can be at the same point again!)...Vive le Canada, down with sepratist

Diana
said

The people of Canada elected Stephen Harper as Prime Minister. The proposed coalition government may be legal, however it is unethical. No one wants to go back to the polls now. Give Stephen Harper and the Conservatives a chance to govern!

Bill in Vernon
said

Stephen Harper, your days as PM of Canada are numbered and you know it,as do countless numbers of Canadians, Conservatives included. Time to step aside.

Jessica
said

Another fact - The coalition (Liberal and NDP) received over 40% of the popular vote as opposed to the Conservatives who only received 37% of the popular vote. So...I think that no further comment is needed.

Canadians did not overwhelmingly support Harper. This is the fact!

Michele
said

Barrack Obama, being a democrat, is showing that in the difficult times now facing the US, he has asked for assistance from Republicans and others who don't necessarily agree with Obama and vice versa, yet he is willing to work together with others for the better good of the country. Gee, I wonder why our Prime Minister can't do the same. I wonder if Obama can handle 2 countries at the same time?

Brian Nelson
said

This coalition attempt is just plain UnCanadian. Call an election. I promise next election will be less ambiguous.

Marc from Petit-Rocher, NB
said

Harper has better announce something tonight. At least TRY to make it look like it's something else than a free attack add on the Liberals.

After that? I would LOVE to see an election with the NDP, Liberals and Greens united. Then we'd see where Canada really stands.

Ryan A.
said

I'm stunned that there are people on here supporting the coalition. Wow. Just absolutely stunned. Not as a defense of the Conservatives. But to defend the coalition? (PS, that doesn't put the Liberals in charge, for those who think so). Stunned.

Simon, Gatineau
said

I agree with those who say a coalition would be democratic. It might not be perfect democracy, but most people voted for a left-wing party, so the coalition would better represent what we voted for than the present government.

Bill
said

If the conservatives MPs were truly interested in what Canadians want, they should join the coalition and work together for once. The conservatives will have 12 Cabinent seats including the Prime Minister (Please not Harper) Liberals get 8 and the NDP gets 5.

Finally we would get a government that works together for the needs of all Canadians not just for the Canadians that make financial contributions to their party.

Richard
said

The Libs are in a leadership process. They had no intention of forming a coalition until Harper started playing silly political games proving he can't work with the other parties. Harper thought he could do anything he wanted by taking advantage of the fact that the Libs are looking for a new leader.

Well, with a dismal fiscal update along with proposes to sell government assets at a time when the sale price of these assets would be low, Harper has proven he is not capable of being PM. He left the opposition with no other choice. Why go through another election to nowhere when the result would be the same. The Libs, NDP and Bloc have the courage to work together form a coalition knowing that they are taking a big political chance. We need to support them.

All Harper can do is generate more talking points and spin instead of showing real leadership.

Backlash Against Coalition
said

We studied about bloodless coups in third world countires in poli sci class but I never dreamt that a Separatist Coalition would attempt this in Canada.

What credentials does the GG have to deal with this crisis? She is on film as having raised a toast to Quebec separation.

If this coup takes place, the backlash against the Separatist Coalition will take generations to heal.

Chris in Halifax

Michel (Ottawa)
said

Hey I like that. It should be the rallying cry:
Better 300 million than 30 billion!!

Although I am quite confident that this ridiculous coalition will not last long, I am most concerned over the financial damage these 3 stooges can do before the conservatives finally get their majority to go and clean up the mess afterwards.

Never mind simply worrying about the fact the GG was placed in her position by the liberals, wasn't there a concern initially over her and her hubby having associated with and encouraged separatists in the past.

Any bets on how she will play this out?

Dan from G.P. AB.
said

If the opposition parties are truly worth their salt then they should be out fundraising instead of being on taxpayer funded welfare. How can Stephane Dion be taken seriously when he doesnt have the confidence of his own party, Prime Minister HA! As a proud Albertan if these three b-rated circus clown rejects some how gain power Alberta should immediately cut transfer payments.

Allan Webster Ailsa Craig
said

Andre wrote that Mr. Dion was a non-elected PM. We as Canadians do not elect a prime minister. We elect members of parliament. Because we have leaders of political parties, the person in charge of the party that has the confidence of the house becomes the prime minister. In 1915 in England during the Gallipoli crisis, the Asquith coalition was replaced later by a Conservative coalition that was led by Lloyd George , a Liberal. All this was done without an election call. The members of the house have the last vote as to who will lead parliament.

George from Winnipeg
said

Mr. Harper does not seem to realize there is a minority government. His job is to work with others,not dictate. What a contrast to Obama, who is consulting others. It is time to move the economy ahead. Harper is too concerned with power and controlling others. We are fortunate we do not have a Harper Conservative majority.If we did, we would have to say good-bye to democracy, and the standard of living would really erode for the lower and middle income people.

Jessica
said

I hope that we can all just move on, even if that involves living under a coalition gov. There is nothing wrong with that - many countries, particularly in Europe, fonction very well.
This is what our system allows the GG to do. There is nothin illegal or undemocratic about the coalition gov.

Wayne
said

After reading some of these pro-coalition posts, and their arguments of legality.

It is apparent to me that they just don't get it!

The coalition movement to overthrow the government has take away Canadian voters free choice of an elected party.

It does not matter if it is the Conservatives, Ndp, or the Liberals.

If either party was chosen by the Canadian voters with a mandate to form the government, then the Canadian voter�s decision should be respected and upheld.

If you want an opportunity to lead the country, then let Canada vote!

Gary Findlay
said

While there is a lot of comment of the difficulty for the decision facing the Governor General; her decision is really quite clear. She must grant eithert a suspension of Pariment or an election if it comes to that. There is no clear precedent for a coaltion government in these circumstances. What is clear is that the citizens do not want Mr. Dion as Prime Minister and they did not vote for a coaltion government. The conservatives will also table a budget in January and the oppostion can vote it down if they choose and the GG should make it clear that if they do there will be an election. This will clear up the issue of whether they are for the economy or the people. Since the NDP were discussing the toppling of the government before the economic statement; there might be some question in this area.

Liam Schaefer
said

The truly ridicules in this debate keep saying that 62% did not vote for Harper!? well this is true in a broad sense no other party individually had a higher count! the liberals just lost more seats in an single election in 135 years!! I am going out on a limb here by saying from those results "Canada don't like Dion much" and did not want him in power. As for Mr Jack it will be the only chance in this lifetime that he will ever receive to be even close to running our country for it would never happen by democratic voting through Canadians. As for the Boc ( Quebec ) we are stuck with these vote wasting self absorbed whiners until our country adopts a proportional voting system that works for all not just the east and especially Quebec, until then any party running an election or our country with any chance of success will be forced to continually suck up to them.

Liam Schaefer
Meadow Lake
Sask

Thomas (Ottawa)
said

I really hope the GG does the right thing here. Mr. Harper has lost the confidence of the house. We also have an alternative. I support the coalition because I have entrusted the MP, that I voted for, to do what is in my best interests.

Mr. Harper's PR campaign is a massive propaganda campaign playing on Canadian's political illiteracy.

When all is said in done, and the coalition is in power, I hope that Mr. Harper has his face rubbed in this for a long time. For instance, Although Harper hates Joe Clark, he did exactly what Joe did. That is, acting like he had a majority when he only had a minority. Even though Harper has been in politics a long time, he just learned a valuable less a bit too late. Democracy is run by consensus not by doctoral arrogance.

Steve
said

A lot of attention seems to being focused on the Governor General�s role in our current political confidence crisis. Whatever her quasi-political qualifications are, the fact remains that under our Parliamentary democracy, the opposition parties have the right to form a ruling coalition that has the confidence of the House.

Earlier this year Mr. Harper asked the GG to dissolve the previous Parliament because he felt he could win a majority. The final result clearly shows the Canadian voters did not want to give him the power of a majority government. His only option was to work with the Opposition to maintain the confidence of the House. Again he failed and now he must face the consequences. Asking the GG to prologue Parliament only 7 weeks after the last election is clearly not democratic. In fact, it�s an affront to the Parliamentary system he has sworn to uphold.

Canadian should how gird their loins and prepare for a new governing body. Many may not like it, but the left and centre left parties clearly have 60% of the seats and popular vote. Mr. Harper does not have a mandate to rule with only 40%, and he did not build the necessary bridges with one or more opposition parties to retain power.

Elizabeth from Ontario
said

People are writing that Harper was all set to have an agreement with the Bloc and the NDP to bring down the Martin Liberals. However, did it come to fruition? NO!
Because Harper couldn't and wouldn't agree to the Bloc's demands, the agreement fell through.
However, Dion and Layton have no problem giving the Bloc whatever it wants just to get rid of Stephen Harper, out of pure hatred for the man, nothing more. Harper could have said "The sky is blue" and the Opposition would have called for the government's demise, as evidenced by the taped meeting of the NDP caucus.
This is shameful and if the GG cares at all about Canada she will allow a prorogue of parliament.

Kevin stacey
said

Of course we voted for these three Coalition parties. 65% of us voted for them. That's pure democracy, it's in our legal right to seize power from the minority lame-duck Conservative Party.
The majority of Canadians did not vote the Conservatives in power. And if the Conservatives were not such idiots, they would have come up with a better stimulus package than trying to save $ 30,000,000 (.00015% of total budget) in an obvious attempt at quashing the other parties from imparting of their political views to the rest of Canadians who rely on various mediums to hear what they have to say.

Frank in Russia
said

As an Instructor at a University in St Petersburg Russia, I brought the current "political crisis" in Canada in for discussion. I think that one of my students summed it up very well when he told the class that all those "Canadians" should stop their whinning and be thankful that they have a government that has opposition and can freely choose to go by rules set out for such problems. We (Russians) have lived with no choice for over 70 years, and now that we have been given choice - it seems to be all for one totalitarianistic party without any opposition -the closest opposition party is a Communist party with about 12% of the seats in the house. Canada and Canadians - be thankful that you have such a democracy.

Milli
said

Harper brought this on himself. His arrogance is what got him into this and now he is afraid to face the music. Another election would cost Canadians millions of dollars, just like the last one. Harper called that one, against his own law of a fixed election date, because the parliament was dysfunctional. That too was a political ploy to bring down his political rivals, just as the economic update was last Thursday. Let's face it, Harper does not care about Canada, he only cares about power. He is clinging to power for the sake of power, not for the best interest of Canada. His behavior is disgusting. 62% of Canada did not vote for or support him, he must go.

Cory
said

Reform party had seperatist overtones from the west and coalitioned or merged to take over the Progressive Conservative Party...lest we forget..Harper was a member of this movement. Now he rears his head trying to financially destroy any opposition to his party in an attempt to Govern Canada like a Majority...as no other party could contest him without money to advertise in an Election. Thus a win/win for Harpers ego. But wait 60% of Canadians didn't vote for Harper. A Coalition government will represent the interests of Canada better than a hidden agenda of Harpers that benefits the west more so. Time to weed out the Reformers (western seperatists) from the Tory party and return the Progressive Conservatives as a party worthy of Canadians. GG should let the Liberals form a Coalition Government to represent ALL Canadians...good bye HARPER!!!

Ki-Som Victoria BC
said

No matter what happens, Mr. Harper, will never recover from this. What is going on, right now, is 100% Mr. Harper's fault.

Ashoor
said

As a proud Canadian I totally reject the political act of Liberals-NDP-Bloc parities. It is clearly an attempt to achieve through other means what they were not able to achieve via the democratic legal election system. The Canadian people said few weeks ago that we want the Conservative to lead us, and I am not happy that Liberals-NDP-BLOC parties want to change the will of people for pure personal goals such as Dion dream to be called Mr. Prime Minister, Layton�s goal to control the country since he knows he will win legally this role, and of course the separatist, who only wants to milk the rest of Canada for sake of pleasing his follow separatists.

Nick Spooner- MTL
said

It seems to have missed many of the posters on this website but coalition governments are fairly common throughout Europe and have worked tremendously. I hear silly comments like "it doesnt work this way", yes it does its called a minority government Steve didn't get 50% + 1 so this is what he faces that is how the cookie crumbles.

Tough luck, i sincerely hope GG does not prorogue because the last thing we need in an economic crisis is a government that is at a standstill.

People, GET INFORMED

Mike
said

Harper couldn't resist the temptation to fall back on the same partisanship and pettiness and immaturity that has poisoned our politics for so long.
Harper and the conservatives have divided this country more than the sepratists ever have, a coalition government is what this country needs now. This is our chance to answer that call. This is our moment. This is our time to put our politicians back to work and open doors of opportunity for our kids.

Sheldon from Winnipeg
said

I have a problem here with all that is taking place with our present parliment. During the last election each canidate ran to become the Leader of the country in the House of Commons. Now they take the stand that it appears that this was a behind the scenes work in progress to make this happen. You now have 2 parties to form the offical party to lead us and one that is only interested in what is best of Quebec (which is not a true party seeking what is best for Canada but for themsleves).
For the Bloc to come on board with this they will recieve an additional transfer payment of 1.9 Billion mine and yours tax dollars. Where a general election will only cost 300 million let see how the people will vote now that they know what the outcome could be.
The stare of the economy is heading down hill do to the unrest within our goverment and will not correct untill we have a goverment that can govern. The goverment can not really present a budget for the upcoming year untill the Unioted States has place there's for we are tied so directly to the United States economy and the auto indusrties tha we have to wait and see. They are taking steps to cut costs knowing what is taking place in the present times but why is the polical parties needing our taxed dollars to run the polical campains? Couldn't that money be better used for the following daycare, healthcare right Mr. Dion and Mr Harper who preach such. The Bloc they don't have to raise a dime for there party for they recieve over 6 million of my mony. Here the MP's work for us and they want raise?

Johnny Canuck
said

Lets have another election. The coalition is technically legal. What is important is we do not allow a lame-duck liberal leader as Prime Minister. He did not have the support of his own party, how can he be supported by his country. The last election was the worst showing by any Liberal leader in history. Why would we degrade the Prime Minister Office with a loser. Canada does not want him.

Do not allow a separatist party to pull the strings of government behind the scenes. The real danger in this coalition is that it could fracture Canada forever.

The government has been hijacked and the proof is that this coalition began prior to the last election. So there was never any concern for Canada and it's electorate. The coalition was planned and plotted regardless of the thrown speach contents.

Once again, let Canada decide not a few losers in a back room. We will be happy to decide a majority goverment.

Melanie Warkentin
said

I think this is very unfair that they think they can over throw a government that we voted we wanted stephen harper and know because he is doing the best he can to insure us as hard working canadians and small employers and so on don't feel such a impact from the recession and that the government does all they can to help absorb it, even if it means they might all have to share a jet instead of having their own the other parties want to overthrow him. How can this be possible right I vote NO! to the coalition if my vote matters in the circumstance. It seem it can be overthrown anyways so does it really matter what I think or vote. Stepehen harper I think your doing a great job and I feel you are looking out for the best for us canadians and not your own pocket. I think this is ridiculous and selfish of the other parties in a time of recission when the government should be focusing on the future of the country the other parties are still fucused on themselves...go figure.

Ernie in BC
said

Parliment is in charge. The Prime Minister is chosen by parliment. If parliment has lost confidence in the Prime Minister then Parliment must choose another. Simple. Parliment is ruled by the colletive wisdom of our elected MPs. Harper knows this but pretends not to. My loyalty is to parliment and the Prime Minister it chooses. Go Parliment Go.

R. J. in Calgary
said

People, you say the coalition is undemocratic. Stop and think about what you are saying, without a party hat on.

If the Coalition is undemocratic because they weren't elected by the people, then Harper bringing down the Liberal government in 2005 was undemocratic because I didn't vote for the two parties (Bloc and Cons) that brought down the government then. You can't have it both ways people.

Oh you can say Harper brought it to an election not a coalition. Well Harper tried to work a Coalition with the NDP and the Bloc going as so far as to send a letter to the GG, but of course you can't get more distant Ideologies then the Cons and NDP and was doomed from the beginning.

The big error by Harper was not working with the opposition but treating the government like he had a mandate from the people. He didn't. So the Opposition are working together to form a government, which gives them more power then Harpers Cons.

It is Harper's biggest error ever� and one which will end up leading him to the exit door of the Conservative Party soon.

David in Calgary
said

My two bits worth ... THANK YOU!! I am sick of hearing people say the majority speaks!!

The majority did not speak for a coalition and I wonder how many of those who voted NDP or Lib would have done so knowing that they would try to form a Canadian Government with a party that does not want to be Canadian. The one thing that I truly wish is that Gilles will keep talking...he's helping our cause!!

Joan
said

The electorate spoke clearly six short weeks ago and Stephane Dion and Jack Layton were rejected. Now the Liberals and NDP have made a backroom deal with a party whose intention is to break up Canada. The Bloc do NOT represent Canada, but Quebec interests only. I believe our Prime Minister should be allowed to govern as dictated by Canadians coast to coast. Let's go back to the polls and kick these bums out so we can get on with the business of the country.

Chris in Toronto
said

I must admit, at first I was happy to see the prospect of a coalition government as Mr. Harper has not proven himself very parliamentary as he is belligerant and does not govern as if he has a minority government expecting the weak opposition to prostate themselves before his wishes. He has received two minority mandates and has governed as if he was given a majority. He didn't take the message from the people of Canada that he was not trusted with the full reigns of power. The oposition finally realised that they had the numbers to take on the bully. I'm now of the opinion that the Governor General should perogue parliament on the basis that the Conservatives will work to a positive solution with the opposition. My concern is that the Conservatives are poisoning the water with the current advertising campaign. We are heading into a recession and ideally the Conservatives should sit down with the Liberals to create a solid government with the Liberals holding 25% of the ministries. Strong, centralist government policy with a majority of the seats to steer Canada throught the difficult times. I honestly don't think Mr. Harper is the person to do so though as he has centralised his own party, let alone working with the other parties in a cooperative government.
My message to all parliamentarians is "GROW UP". What a bunch of children. Canada deserves better and has had too many years of overtly partisan politics without Canada's best interest at heart.

Greg in eastern ontario
said

Pro Conservatives who leave comments seem to think that this is some kind of illegal act.

Is this not how the Parliamentary system was designed? There are many examples of coalitions and grand coalition governments in other jurisdictions - my only surprise is that it hasn't happened sooner.

Sure, the 'majority' voted for one gang in parliament, but that does not lessen the voice of those who voted differently and are, in fact, the combined majority.

Let Parliament work - this is how it was designed to work, as much as it pains the Conservatives.

Anne Ottawa
said

who said Canadian politics was boring? isnt this fun? either way you look at what could happen we are between a rock and a hard place. This coalition is very airy fairy and will just piss off the west because of the Bloq involvement in it. The west is getting royally sick of la Belle Province getting special perks and bonuses that other provs dont get, and all Quebecers do is whine that still it isnt enough. Enough already. Harper made a boo boo, he has acted imperiously for sure, but the three stooges wont do much better, and there will be no budget, trust me, before March with those yahoos. anything they do before then will not be well thought out, and will therefore not have much likelihood of helping anything in the economy. Lets face it all they were really p od about was Harper taking away their political funding. So what, I would rather my taxes went to a beneficial cause. An election would cost alot of money but on the other hand I did not sign on for that coalition when I voted, neither did alot of other disenchanted Canadians, that is why everyone is so angry. yes what they are doing is legally ok by our electoral process, but it is not morally ok and they know it, because the voters did not democratically vote for it.

Maddie
said

If the coalition had formed a new party prior to the last election, their actions would be more noble. Now they appear as a group of school yard bullies ganging up on the elected leader, because they could not win legitimately.

Nadene Perry
said

Stephen Harper has done nothing but thumb his nose at the laws of the land and parliamentary procedure. I think it is ironic he will be brought down by the very system he cares so little about. The Governonr General should not have allowed the November election. But more Canadians have voted for the Coalition than have voted for Stephen Harper and so I think they should be given a chance to lead.

Pat Donnelly
said

Politics makes strange bedfellows! All the political parties want the power to run the show and all of them will do what they are permitted to do to get it. Harper tried or was willing to lay down with the Bloc four years or so ago, and now the Liberals are ready to do it too. Harper messed up by forgetting he did not have a majority. I'm happy to see him squirm for a bit.
I kinda think a coalition might do a better job than Harper and his crew.
the people voted in such a way that the Conservatives did not have a mrjority, but the other parties together would have a majority. Why didn't Harper do his homework and add the numbers? Joe Clark messed up when he was the Pm and now it's Harper. Would somebody get them a math teacher and help them to add up the numbers!

Joanna from Ontario
said

All of this is so disturbing.

As parents and teachers we teach our children respect, working together, how to speak to each other, and to care for one another.

Our government members do not seem to know any of this.
So we just voted.
Now it is time to work together.
We need to stop all this yelling and screaming and hateful speach.
Dion and Layton need to stop focussing all their energy on being vehemently opposed to EVERYTHING Harper suggests and start LISTENING and working together. They can still represent their constituents this way.

Is anyone else embarrassed by how our politicians just yell at each other and interrupt one another? And make plans to topple each other? Indeed this comes across as animal like.

Stop this coalition, and start working. Yes, working.

Steve in Hamilton
said

This is appalling...

It would be like the 14th, 15th and 16th teams in the NHL getting together and saying... "If we put our wins together we'll have one more than the Detroit Red Wings and that would make us Stanley Cup Champions!!!"

Hey wait, that would mean that The Toronto Maple Leafs would be Stanley Cup Champions!!! I take it all back this is the best way to run a Country!!!

(tongue planted firmly in cheek)
3 Losers don't make a winner.

dennis mikalson
said

This is not the playgound, Stephen can not pick up his football and go home. He must face the confidence vote. If he loses the the GG must ask the coalition to form a government. As government the coalitions support in parliment will be tested. If they also fail then it will have to be an election.
The only reserection for the Conservative party is to dump Harper.

Andrew in Woodstock
said

What people don't seem to realise is that coalition governments like this are standard in many European countries, and they function just fine. If the majority of Canadian vote a particular way (and the majority did not vote Conservative), why not let a coalition of those forces lead? It's simply the most sensical thing to do to keep Canada on track. The Conservatives have been trying to pick away at the democratic process in Parliament for too long and, unfortunately, many Canadians simply don't care about that. That's why we have elected representatives to understand those more nuanced issues and to react appropriately. The Liberal/NDP/Bloc alignment is proof of this face, as they realise what the Conservatives are trying to do long term. Proroguing Parliament would simply delay the inevitable, and Stephen Harper has hardly been one to back down from a fight before, so why now? Think about it.

marlin
said

As we can see from the viewpoints expressed all this coalition will do is further divide a nation that has been divided for years. Regional disparity will be enhanced, unity destroyed. Because something is legal does not make it right. You are about to witness how political ambition destroys a country. Another fine job by our elected representatives.

paul courneyea
said

due in no small part to pm stephen harper and minister jim flaherty's leadership, the canadian economy is performing better than that of ALL other nations. bloomberg news refers to the canadian economy as the "gold standars".

bailing out the big 3, while other manufacturers are doing well is to reward incompetence and poor performance and burden our progeny with more pointless debt. let failures fail. there are other ways to stimulate the economy!

if ford needs a plan, have them dust off the "k-cycle" engine and start producing 100mpg+ cars now.

dion wants power at any cost. no plan. separatists welcome. pile on...

i urge the governor general to deny dion's shabby attempt at a coup and to call an election if a non-confidence motion succeeds.

Linda in Vancouver
said

Wake up Western Canada.It is the Liberals,the BLOC and the NDP who have blocked afforts to reform the Senate,and make it a Democratic institution.If we had done that,we would not be in this mess now.On that issue,Harper has been true to his word.He has not appointed Senators unless they were elected or chose in the region which they are to represent.
If this takeover is allowed to proceed,there will NEVER be a Democratic Senate.The west will ALWAYS be the slaves of central Canada,as Liberals will now know they can coulnt on the separatists and socialists to drown out our voices and negate the votes cast in our region.
There are at least 18 vacant seats in the Senate right now.If Harper fills them,he will be raked over the coals for doing it.If he leaves them for the regions to fill,it may well be to late.If this takeover goes ahead,Dion will fill those seats with more Liberal hacks and has beens.
There will be a Liberal juggernaught in Ottawa for decades to come,no matter who gets elected to sit in Parliament.
Liberal or Conservative,we MUSY unite the WEST.This issue is far bigger than either Harper or Dion.It will be huge in deciding whether or not we ever have a voice in Canada,and whether or not Canada ever evolves into a true democracy that represents ALL of the regions.
The west won the Grey Cup.We can win this too.At the very least,we MUST be allowed to vote.It will be much easier the next time.Just two options.The "Coalition" or the Conservatives.The Premiers of western provinces MUST speak out on this issue on our behalf.

Les in BC
said

Canadians did not vote to be represented by two sagging parties supported and contolled by seperatists. We voted on Oct.14th and immediately the losers start plotting their power grab. This is not democracy, this plain and simple a power grab. It is time the West asserts its power and leaves.

Alex Roberts (Halifax)
said

It is important to remember that only 22.2% of Canadians actually voted Conservative/Harper. (59.1% voted and 37.5 who voted, voted Tory)

Harper was hardly given a mandate of any kind.

But numbers aside, it is Harper's fault we are in this crisis, and it is he who should pay by resigning.

mpdman
said

I live in T.O., but I can imagine how someone in Calgary feels.
Three men, all born in Quebec - one of whom wants to separate from Canada - sign a document which promises that Canadians will have 3 PM's in a 6 month span. The validity of this document will be judged by a representative of the Queen of England (a Haitian-born Quebecois, whose husband has ties with separatists).
Jon Stewart couldn't write this stuff!.....

Pip
said

I've said it before, I'll say it again: You get what you voted for.

What's that? You didn't vote, like 42% of the population? Right, you didn't vote, you got nothing: no action to deal with the economic crisis, because, in spite of their words to the TV cameras, the opposition parties decided not to work for the good of the country.

That's right, no government, just power-hungry politicians bickering over who's to be boss, instead of running the country effectively. That's the problem - too many bosses and too few workers; too many consuming wealth, too few producing it.

Whatever the result - whether Parliament is prorogued or not, vote of no confidence or not, we will soon have another election, and I sincerley hope that the electorate of this country will get out in large numbers and vote. Our nation cannot take much more of this political in-fighting at our expense, and that will be the case until we get voter turnouts in the 80%+ range.

T Sanders
said

So the coalition is coming together to fight against bullying tactics, and not about a lack of an economic stimulus plan? So if it's about pride and control and NOT about a lack of a stimulus package, why are the leaders lying to us?

Because if they really came out and said they want power because their egos were hurt, who would support that? So they lie to us.

Again, the motivation of the coalition is rather easy to figure out. The coalition WANTS power and they'll do whatever it takes and hurt whomever it hurts to get it. It's clearly not about a lack of economic plan.

Aren't we sick of being lied to yet? What about holding the elected MPs accountable to telling us the truth.

Jason Roettger
said

I have grown ashamed of so many Canadians in the past couple days. There is so little in the way of intelligent dialogue occurring among the people right now, and so little understanding about what democracy is and isn't. It's no wonder our government is about to fall - we're getting exactly what we deserve.

Way to go, Canada!

Charles
said

Harper is not a president. By the laws of Canada he governs on behalf of the Queen and the GG is the Queen's representative (who Harper retained in her role). It is the GGs job to determine which group of elected members (all winners in their own ridings) can govern with the support of the House of Commons. Harper's group seems to have failed at this. If he accuses legally elected members of being somehow outside the rules, and so tries to avoid allowing a vote, it is he who is acting outside the rules.

Anthony from NS
said

Man some of you people are quite clueless. All this hogwash about the BQ aligning with the Lib/NDP coalition and wanting to separate Canada is all but idiocy of people who just do not understand and don't think logically.

For starters, the separtists have no power whatsoever to govern in any form (read the constitution), but the coalition needs them to help get things done.

Second, separtism opinion in Quebec is at an all-time low, and most quebec'ers do not wish to have a referendum.

The goal of the BQ is to look out for the best interests of Quebec, plain and simple. The notion of the BQ aligning with the coalition and planning on separating canada is bull; they know that they cannot use that influence. Any real smart person could see that.

The only agreement between these 2 groups is a bit more for quebec so that the BQ gives their support to the coalition. Nothing more nothing less.

I in all forms support this coalition fully. Harper will just stagnate parliament again and nothing will get done. Under the coalition, this will help make sure things get done, and that a potential economic recession will be adverted.

Elaine in Bowmanville
said

I am flabergasted too that in my lifetime I find that our government can be overthrown by the (sore)"losers" one of whom was ready to quit. This sounds less like democracy as I see it, and more like communism, and that the GG can make the final decision when she has no experience, was not elected by Canadians, and is in fact, not Canadian, is a joke. This whole debacle makes me ashamed to be Canadian. Does everyone not know that Jack Layton used to (or still does) live in subsidized housing in Toronto while clearly not in need. Do we want in power the Liberals after all their scandals and obvious cheating, or someone like Paul Martin who preachs out of one side of his mouth about taxing Canadians and then runs a fleet of ocean liners with non-Canadian employees while paying no taxes on his business in Canada. Liberals have wasted more money, and are famous for more social programs to waste more taxpayer money. Do we really need this when those who actually try to work are in dire circumstances and may lose their jobs? Are all 3 of these party leaders, if they win (overthrow Harper), going to move into Harper's home in Ottawa with their families? This whole idea is ridiculous and should not be allowed. Let's take a poll here - will the GG listen to what the majority of Canadians think? Why should she since she herself did not need to be elected to be in power.

Dman
said

300 million for an election ... 50 biliion or more in debt and taxes by the coalition. I would rather we have another election than let this coalition band of theives into the treasury.

James from Vancouver
said

Harper was awarded a minority government. He needs the support of at least 1 other opposition party. His war machine to destroy the opposition through policy and now attack ads only galvanize and solidify the opposition parties against Harper.

Harper's divisive stance is tearing up the country. Turning westerners against central Canadians and Quebecers, it's disgusting.

The Liberals and NDP have neutered the Bloc on the sovereignty issue for 18-months as the Bloc will wear everything the government accomplishes (good or bad) and is the best chance at convincing separatists that they are better off in an inclusive Canada, taking part in our democracy and the nation.

Alex (Toronto)
said

The people have spoken, and most of them voted against Conservative government. A majority of members of parliament representing a majority of voters will be supporting the new coalition. That's the way parliamentary democracy works. Harper proposed the exact same thing to the Governor General when he was leader of the opposition. If it was okay for the Conservatives to form a coalition with the Bloc Quebecois in 2004, it's okay for the Liberals and NDP for the government to form a coalition today. It's funny how Harper wants to apply rules to everybody else that he doesn't like for himself.

It's also funny the way he can speak in one language about the Liberals and NDP betraying federalism and in other about the Bloc betraying sovereigntism. These can't both be true, and saying the exact opposite message in different languages is one of the worst ways of lying to Canadian voters. In the real world, the Bloc has agreed to defer its aspirations for sovereignty for at least 18 months. The Liberals and NDP have yielded nothing on national unity, a subject on which Stephane Dion knows more and has done more than anyone else in Parliament.

Harper had no problem cooperating with the BQ to pass budgets and other confidence votes, so he has no standing to criticize anyone else on this. That's all the BQ will be doing with the Liberal-NDP coalition. Federalist parties can't cooperate with separatists on questions of national unity, but there are plenty of economic and social issues that look the same in Quebec as they do in other provinces. The BQ represents its constituents on those issues as well, and democracy doesn't work by ignoring a party on every subject just because of one area of disagreement.

trev in ab
said

It's time for Canadians who believe in democracy to march on Ottawa. It's time for Canadians to put their foot down collectively and make our voices heard. We're mad as hell and we're not going to take it anymore.

Chilliwack B.C.
said

Have you folks been listening to the news, the Liberals, and NDP, are trying to justify their partnership with the separatist.

The Liberals and NDP think we are stupid, they think they can smooth talk there way out of this.

They should all be put in jail.

None of the LIBERAL/NDP separatist clowns, none of them, have they once said they will listen to the people, the electorate, no. The Liberals and NDP are finished, we maybe they have a future in Quebec.

David Essner
said

Here's the solution. Let the winners of the Grey Cup become the government and the runners-up will be the Opposition. Makes as much sense as having this power-hungry group of dogs in Opposition slavering to divide up Canada's spoils.

Jodi
said

I am very saddened and concerned about the state of our politics. The Liberals, NDP and Bloc (of all people), are taking away our democratic right. We did not vote for them to lead this county. While its true that the Conservatives were elected with a minority, the majority voted for 3 different parties, not a coalition of them. What kind of democracy is this? They don't have the right to TAKE away power from the government. I can't believe in Canada people are so short-sighted to think this is acceptable and okay, when it goes against the very base of democracy. I wonder in 30 months (as long as their union is binding) if the three other parties will want to continue to be one? They sure didn't seem united in their beliefs in the last election, oh yeah, that was 2 months ago. They claim they're doing this for the good of the country, but really all they want is the power shift and they see an opportunity to grab it. I'm disgusted with these parties and what they're doing to our countries political decisions.

Dayton
said

I can't for the life of me comprehend how this could be possibly good for the unity of this country. Dion give your head a shake this is totally wrong and as smart as you are you just don't get it. With Harper and all his faults he still managed to get support from every region in this once great country of ours. Dion are you so stupid you can't realize how this will shake out? Or was the greenshift east verses west part of a hidden agenda which you are seeing come to fruition.

Dan Jones, Lacombe Alberta
said

Let's go back to the polls. This is a power grab, pure and simple. A coalition with not only Dion as PM but with a SEPERATIST who's priority is QUEBEC ONLY calling the shots and being kingmaker is unacceptable. Between increased monies for Quebec and a carbon tax, the west will get economically raped for Quebec's benefit.

I can't imagine a bigger bucket of gasoline being tossed on the glowing embers of western seperatism. This disgusts me.

blc ontario
said

When are Canadians going to smarten up, get out and vote. This is the only way from being held for ransom by a Separatist party, like it or not that is basically what it comes down to. This coalition is such nonsense. I would have no problem with it if the party holding the actual power had the interest of the whole country in mind.

Let's face it with the exception of the Bloc they all need new leadership. Mr. Duceppe is the smartest one of the lot, unfortunately he is not interested in the welfare of the whole country.

In the meantime the nonsense goes on, nothing gets done and our economic woes get worse, while the twits all fight for power. Can anyone really say anyone of them has the best interest of Canada and its' people in mind?

DK from Sudbury
said

everyone is saying canada didnt vote for this result? what reults? less than 60% of canadians voted! which makes that less than 25% of canadians voted for harper and his connies. more canadians voted for the opposition. if the opposition takes power as a coalition, it is more representative than a harper pretend majority.

we'll all look back, especially steve, and realize that in a minority government, you must treat it like one...not like youve earned a majority. canadians voted for the parties to work together...at least three of them will

Steve - Montreal
said

What if we all didn't submit our income tax next April as a protest?

Joe Viscount
said

prorogue to avoid a non-confidence vote? Cowardice! Harper represents 38% of the popular vote yet once again tried to "lead" as if he had a majority. This was the precise issue that led to the last election. The conservatives should have demanded his resignation. Instead they have continued to allow his arrogance and appropriation of government to continue and as a result should be forced into opposition without delay. They have been horrible on the world stage,attempted to stifle democracy, misrepresented the economy, ignored global warming in favour of big oil and in fact there is ample evidence that the only true reason we had an election was to avoid accountability for Air-Bus, Cadman and illegal spending in the previous election. Did they think that Chretien would allow his legacy to be attacked without repercussion. "little Bush" has now come up against the big boy and will be forced to account one way or the other. I personally think that this coalition could lead either to the best government for Canada or the second worst. The Bloc is a legitimate representation of the voice of Quebec and Harper's rhetoric is the most divisive voice in Canada today. Does he not see this? He's tantrumming over what I consider to be a very necessary action to curb this megalomaniac. Go GG Go!

Edward
said

Maybe the coalition should give the conservatives the choice of having their government defeated or ditch Harper. I would like to see the secound choice.

Vaino 'Vain Zero' Lund
said

Has anyone else concluded that the last thing to happen in the house is that Harper won a confidence vote, in the vote on the SPeech from the Throne, and yet he is going to run to the GG for the second time in less than five months of his own accord to tell her that he can not control Parliament?

This is a failure of the PM and underlines WHY there is a Majority of Members in the House willing to support Dion to lead the country as PM.

Harper Can Not Lead, or he would proceed with the business of the house, and he is not proceeding. He must step down as PM.

Carley, Ottawa
said

I have opinions on both sides of the house and to be honest right now I don't like any players in this game. The conservatives made a huge mistake playing with the power that they had, and the coalition I believe is going to cause many more problems then any of us could imagine.
Can we not get rid of them all and start fresh with some new faces that can help us turn this situation around as well as look at the bigger picture? The economy is failing, lives are being lost fighting a war in Afghanistan, people are losing there jobs and the cost of living keeps rising to the point where many can no longer keep up! The voice of the Canadian people has become lost and forgotten, and government in Canada now looks like a car crash about to happen.
And who is to blame? Is it the people in office or is it the fact the most Canadian can not be bothered to look around and find out what is happening? We are in control of our own government, we are the ones that are supposed to hold the power. We were the ones that elect a party into office, we could have prevented all this from happening, but instead of paying attention, many sit in front of there TVs each night watching who will be voted off dancing with the stars!
There needs to be some changes in our government meaning new players on both sides!! People who can inspire, have new ideas, goals, and can work with together with their opposition, to make government work for who it is meant for... the people! I know this is turning into a rant.. but its time that Canada found some "Change" of there own.

Bill Leonard
said

On election day, I do not recall seeing a coalition government represented on the ballot. If it would have been put before the people do you think they would have been voted in? I don't believe so. NDP and Liberal are fundamentally different. The Bloc only cares about the seperation of our country. Democracy allows us to vote for the party of our choice. I know there is no one in Canada who voted for this type of representation. Our Liberal and NDP leaders should ask the voters if they agree with this move.

Kelly from Saskatchewan
said

People keep saying that the conservatives were not voted in as they did not receive 61% of the vote. My question to all these people is; going into the last election how many of you would have voted the same way knowing that the NDP, Liberals, and for the most part the Bloc were going to join forces and govern under a coalition. I would really like to see the result of that election and we may see it not to near in the future. I am in no way a political major, but from what I understand we have 5 parties running in the election and the party with the most seats wins government whether it be a minority or a majority. If it is a minority then the elected government needs to work with the other elected officials and ensure that the parties are in agreement when making decisions to "better" Canada as a whole.
In regards to the economic situation in Canada, I realize other provinces are doing better financially than others at this current time, but that may not be the case going forward. My thought is corporate tax cuts will eventually reach people in every province. Adding money to an already failing automobile industry may have a big inpact on what, one maybe two provinces?
This will be an interesting month for Canadians and especially politicians.

J James
said

I was one of the smallest group ever to get out and vote. I didn't vote for a coalition gov't. As far as I am concerned the only thing the govenor general should do is have all 3 of those power greedy idiots that want to run this country is have them all charged with TREASON. Just incase you are wondering the party I voted for did not win.

Dave from BC
said

The simple fact is IT doesn't matter how many people voted for or against the NDP, Bloc, Liberals, Conservatives. In the Westminster Parliamentary system the Prime Minister is simply defined as that person who commands the confidence of Parliament. Confidence is defined as a majority of the members.
Harper doesn't have the confidence of the house, he can't be Prime Minister, end of discussion. Dion appears to have that confidence he can be Prime Minster. Nothing ideological about this, doesn't matter what party has the most seats, or if Canadians voted for a coalition. In being a Prime Minister all that matters in the Westminster System is having the confidence of the house.

Doug from Kitsilano
said

So many people commenting on this seem to forget that, like it or not, the Bloc MPs are just that: MPs, duly and democratically elected. You may not like their views or their goal (I know I don't) but folks, this is democracy. You can't pick and choose to suit your own ideology.

Gary from Oakville ON
said

Unless Harper can convince the GG to suspend parliament (which would only put things off), the government will fall, on Monday.

At that point, the GG has two choices, call an election or accept the coalition.

The government and the PM serve at the pleasure of parliament. If one party has a majority, no problem. If one party does not, then the other parties are free to join together.

There is nothing treasonous, undemocratic, or unparliamentary about this. That is the system.

Mr. Harper cannot bring himself to try dealing with the opposition. If you choose to run a minority gvernment like a majority, you do so at your peril.

Sue in Dartmouth
said

It isn't only the Liberals who need to change leaders, so do the Conservatives. Our economy may be the most envied on the planet but Harper does not connect with the Canadian public. This is his greatest sin. An election shouldn't be called until there are new leaders from both parties.

That being said, I in no way support this left wing coalition, with Huey, Duey and Louie at the helm. As a tax payer and someone who has lived through recessions and huge deficits, I am very nervous about what these three are going to do with my money. I wonder how true the rumour is that Duceppe was promised 1 billion or so for Quebec for his support. I am sickened by that.

Interesting how Manley and McKenna, who I do respect, are staying clear of this whole thing. So much for their names being thrown out there as economic advisers to the coalition.

Travis
said

I for one have never had much confidence in the Canadian Political System to begin with. I personally feel that our system punishes hard working Canadians by taxing them to death. It promotes a culture of extreme Socialism. If Jack Layton had his way we would be spending money on all these social programs and who ends up having to pay for this? The hard working Canadian Tax Payer! I feel that I contribute more than my share to this country already. At least with the Conservative government in power taxes have slightly reduced. Don't get me wrong I'm not a fan of Steven Harper, but I am a fan of the two party system where things can be achieved through government rather than wasting tax payer�s dollars on pointless elections which yield minority governments. In my opinion it isn't much different than a stalemate where nothing gets accomplished. This so called coalition was not on the ballot in the election and therefore should not have the power to overthrow the government. I�m willing to bet that the conservatives would have achieved a majority government had this been the case. If the NDP and Bloc have a say in how this country is being run, then I'll be moving elsewhere. Parties who can not field representatives in all provinces should not be considered a national party. Just imagine if the rest of Canada wanted to field their own individual party to serve their own interests. I suspect this would spark the break up of Canada as a Country.

Den from Montreal
said

The Conservatives have pulled every sneaky, underhanded maneuver to get what they want: the timing of the election that Canadian voters didn't want, hence record low voter turnout...assuring these "thieves" another minority.
They think they can do anything they want without challenge and, when someone does challenge them, they resort to "Attack ads".
I don't know what's worse: the attack ads themselves or that so many moronic Canadians fall for that crap.
The cons remind me of the schoolyard bully who turns out to be the biggest coward crybaby.
You made yourself a target (as does anyine in politics), so live with it, Mr. PM.

John
said

For those of you who say that the liberals and NDP are not breaking any rules, you are correct. but it is the same people that say Harper broke his promise my calling the last election. well you are dead wrong, even the liberals and NDP said that he did nothing wrong. the rule he made was not to call an election when you have a majority government.
so get all your facts straight, not just the ones that favor your opinion.

Scott Dick
said

Everything aside.

The Governor General represents Canada. If she grants in anyway shape or form the Coalitions request with the full knowledge that the Bloc separatists will prop up that coalition, then would the Governor Generals office be in contempt? A conflict of interest?

This in the long term would be detrimental to Canada to set the kind precedent.

If she lets the coalition take power, than the federal government can not be trusted. The coalition will immediately shift millions if not billions more into the Bloc Separatists favor. I ask that everyone in Alberta immediately review Alberta�s Wildrose Alliance press release yesterday stating that all transfer payments to Ottawa stop!

The coalition must not be allowed to exist, they no longer represent any federalist views what so ever.

Lisa Pickering
said

I want us to have an election!
Mr Dion does not deserve to be PM even if it will forever have an asterisk beside it. He failed so miserably at the elections the Liberals lost seats!!
Have an election and let CANADIAN vote and decide who they want, not the backroom dealers!

John from down the street
said

No wonder people are voting in fewer and fewer numbers with each election. If this coalition government goes ahead as planned, I doubt I will vote in any future elections. What's the point?

the old lady
said

This is a sad day for Canada. The opposition Parties bring forward a proposial for a PM that his own Party wants to get rid of. The opposing parties will not even listen to the Government. Remember 5 mins. after the throne speach Jack Layton saying I can not support this throne speech. How the hell can anyone understand what was in the speech in that length of time? If this coalition comes to power nothing will be done in the House of Commons unless it is good for Quebec. Mr. Duceppe has said this time and time again. Everybody worries about Quebec seperating. Maybe with the mess we presently have we should worry about the West seperating. I do and I live in Northern Ontario. Sad sad day for Canada.

Rick Hemmingson
said

Watch Ignatief. When he realizes his chances of getting into the PM's chair are now toast with the Liberal Party as a result of their political hari-keri, he will either try to cross the floor with some friends (if he thinks Harper is wounded) or he will lead a splinter group of Liberals who will support the Conservatives for some quid pro quo that he thinks will help his personal ambitions. He will paint that as some sort of patriotism and trust liberal supporters to forget his previous support for the 3 Amigos.

He is a true Liberal. No convictions. No vision. Just raw ambition.

Sarah in Niagara
said

Harper has no business asking to prorogue parliament when the world and Canada are in such a state of economic crisis. This let's wait and see attitude is what got him in this mess in the first place. How dare he make Canadian's wait for the stimulus that is so desperatly needed, while people are losing their jobs and trying to figure out how to make this months mortgage payment, all in a vain attempt to stay as Prime Minister. Mr. Harper...62% of the Canadian people didn't vote for you, so lets have someone else run the country who might actually do something to help the state of the economy.

Sam - Montreal
said

I really don't like Mr. Harper (didn't vote Conservative) yet like so many was most comfortable with a Conservative minority - essentially because Harper was the least offensive. Therefore, since the Conservatives got the most MPs elected in October THEY get to govern and choose the cabinet - that is the way our system works! If Harper no longer has the confidence of a majority of ALL elected MP's in total than to me it is simple, make the Conservatives choose a new leader and be done with it - the PM needs to be from the Conservative Party based on the election results. However, if that can't happen under our electoral system then please call a new election GG and allow the ELECTORATE to decide if they want this proposed fusion of the other Parties. Essentially this is a new party being formed comprised of 2 or 3 separte Parties. In an election they'd have to choose their leader up front, say what their platform is and stand for election to receive a mandate from us, the people. The proposal at hand makes me very nervous because it is so far from what those individual parties stood for during the October election - less than 2 months ago! None of them have credibility with me as they all said radically different things in October then they are saying now under this coalition. That alone should make us all upset. I feel this Coalition is an affront to democracy because the Coalition wants to plunge us $30 billion in the hole to prop up the auto and forestry industrys no one ran on that platform in the October election.

Bruce Penny
said

Call an election! Sure, it's a lot of money, but Canada's future is at stake. I really don't think Canadians give a hoot about parliamentary procedures, but they do know that this ocialist/separatist coalition is not what they voted for 7 weeks ago.

larry in waterloo
said

I think we do elect a prime minister. When an election is called all you see in tv ads are the leaders of the federal parties pitching why they should become leader of canada. The voter then decides what candidate has the best interest for the country(adgenda,policies etc.) the average voters really doesnt know much about thier local MP, your really voting for the leader of the party you want to run the country because thats what you see in the ads, why i should be leader why the other guy shouldnt be leader. So six weeks ago canadians went to the polls and gave one candidate the job until another election is called or we thought should happen, not to have the losers take over the government. If thats the case our past prime ministers should not even be recognized for thier achievements, no pictures of them on parliment hill or on our currency. Let the man do his job. or call another election. This is like a coup in a third world country discusting!!

Nick in Gatineau
said

If the conservatives were remotely fiscally responsible, Harper would be making a conference call from Hong Kong, Bejing, Delhi, Moscow or Sao Paulo, instead of standing in the House of Commons like a kid who's mommy has taken away his toys.

He'd be proroguing the house because he'd be busy signing $ 100 Billion trade deals.

Oh yeah. He chose to sign 1 deal with ....Colombia. When will he announce a trade deal with Togo ?

Waiting for the US economic stimulus plan before presenting a Budget is fiscally unresponsible, unprudent and shows complete lack of understanding of the present economic situation.

If you don't understand it here it is:

All of the following also have Tourism as an industry.

Here are the main themes.

NFLD - Fisheries (almost decimated by the conservative govt.), Oil, and Forestry (dwindling)

PEI - Potatoes (the US says they are infected by a virus)

NS - Fisheries (almost decimated by the conservative govt.).

NB - Forestry (dwindling), Agriculture.

QC - Forestry (almost decimated), Hydro, Mining (Exploration is 90 % of it. Only Val D'or is left), Agriculture and Dairy (punished by Conservative Govt. Tarrifs), Oil and Gas (Exploration).

ON - Forestry (almost decimated), Oil (Ended in the 70's), Agriculture (In Trouble), Auto-manufacturing (In Trouble), Mining (dwindling)

MB - Forestry (5 to 10 % loss to fire / year), agriculture, Mining

SK - Agriculture (Drought 8 years out of 10), Beef, Oil and Gas, Health, Scientific.

AB - Oil and Gas, Agriculture (Drought 8 years out of 10), Beef, Forestry (5 to 10 % loos by fire/year), Mining

BC - Fisheries (almost decimated by the conservative govt.), Oil and Gas, Forestry (dwindling + 5 to 10 % loss by fire / year), Mining.

So to these westerners who keep saying that Eastern Canada should not get a dime, look long and hard at that list.

Rod
said

This is pathetic, I guess if you have enough losers, you can pool them together, and make a super-loser, which is as good as a winner? What are we teaching our children? Voting turn-out apathy? How would you like a Canada without a West? The more I think about it, maybe it's a good thing...maybe we can finally get rid of Quebec. I just hope the rest of Canada doesn't follow, and suddenly we're all American. I guess it's only a matter of time. Don't let the media tell you this is about the economy. It's about the bloc, and the other loser's losing their funding. It's all about money and power. I lost faith in the system a **long time ago**. I guess revolution is out of the question. They would put us in jail for that. I don't think Canada's population is representative of our original ideal either. No more than the father's of confederation had a clue what the enviornment was. Sad to see the only great country left, going down the toilet of Quebec.

Margaret in Ottawa
said

Stephen Harper and the Conservatives brought this on themselves. Using 300 million of taxpayers' money to try for a majority before the promised October 2009 date so they could do what they want without opposition; then, with a minority government, proposing measures they knew would infuriate the opposition parties. Harper thought that the opposition would not dare take a non confidence vote so soon after an election. But it backfired. Harper seems more concerned with maintaining his and his party's power rather than focusing on the well-being of Canada and its people. A coalition between the opposition parties might just bring some cooperation and common sense to the governing of our country. Too bad the Liberals didn't have the courage to let Jack Layton be Prime Minister of the coalition. He would have been a much better choice, by far. But, once again, the good of the party trumps the good of the nation. The Liberals would be too afraid that layton would do weel and that would cost them votes in the next election. It's all about getting power and keeping it. Canadian taxpayers just foot the bill for all this lunacy.

My Two Bits Worth
said

It is amazing how people can twist numbers around for the better for their cause. Here is the FACTual numbers
BQ - 50 seats , 10% of popular vote
Liberals - 76 seats , 26% of popular vote
NDP - 37 seats , 18% of popular vote
Conservative - 143 seats , 38% of popular vote.

One can interpret these numbers to read that the Conservatives got twice as many seats as the Liberals, almost 3 times as many as the BQ and FOUR times as many as the NDP. That tells me that majority wanted the Conservatives over any other party.

Further more, 90% of Canadians did not vote for the BQ, 74% did not vote for the Liberals and 82% did not vote for the NDP. Compare those numbers to the 64% that did not vote for the Conservatives and you will find that more Canadians want the Conservatives at the helm of this country than any other party.

If you break down the seats per province;
Alberta 27 Conservative seats , 1 NDP seat , 0 Liberal and 0 BQ
BC 22 Conservative seats , 5 liberal and 9 NDP
Sask 13 Conservative seats , 1 Liberal , 0 NDP and ) BQ
Manitoba 9 Conservative seats , 4 NDP , 1 Liberal and 0 BQ.

Does this coalition of three stooges represent ALL of CANADA or just Ontario and Quebec?

Looking at the numbers above, it appears that only two provinces are represented. So, to the GG, please send us back to the polls and let the Canadian voter decide what is best for Canada. It would be wrong to do anything else.

Debra
said

Conservative wall of shame -

February 20. 1959 Avro Arrow � Diefenbaker

Joe Clark - May 1979 - He believed that he could build public approval by governing as if he had a majority, but he failed to win support from the other parties, especially the NDP, for key parts of his program - namely, the "privatization" of PETRO-CANADA, a mortgage tax credit and austerity financing. The government fell that December on a vote of nonconfidence in the House on John CROSBIE's budget.

Brian Mulroney - The first 2 years of Mulroney's administration were marked by indecision and scandals in his Cabinet, Meech Lake Accord slowly unravelled, and its collapse in June 1990 was at least partly attributed to Mulroney's widely quoted "roll of the dice" in scheduling the final first ministers' conference so close to the deadline. His government reached a new low in popularity with the imposition of the new Goods and Services Tax (GST), which went into effect 1 January 1991. Mulroney had to stack the Senate with supporters in order to get the bill through the upper house. Then the Airbus scandal in 1998.

Kim Campbell � June 13 � December 1993 Kim Campbell � First women to become PM of Canada, lost her own seat in election debacle of 1993.

Now Stephen Harper - The Aliiance, Progressive Conservatives and the Conservatives history should by now show the Canadian people they do not belong in the house of commons.

Seeing through the wool
said

I would just like to point out an obvious error that I have seen echoed on many boards: "This coalition Government and proposed PM have not even been elected".
1. During the last election, you probably noticed a few other names on your ballot. Those people come from different political parties. You know what? Some of those people and parties even legitimately won their ridings. THEY WERE ELECTED. You cannot sit in the House of Commons unless you are elected.
2. We do not live in the US. Our PM is not our President. We do not vote for a PM first. We vote for an MP first in the hopes that their party will have enough seats to form the Government. The Conservatives, unfortunately (but fortunately for every sane person in this country), did not gain a majority Government, they only managed to gain the support of the minority of Canadians. The other 3 parties represented in the House of Commons DEMOCRATICALLY outnumber the minority. That is simple arithmetic.
3. The fact of the matter is that everybody knows the left-of-centre has been fragmented. The PC knew this when they formed the "coalition" Government with the Reformists. They solidified the right. It was only a matter of time before the left became united. Even though I believe our Multi-party political system is far more favourable than the two horse race in the US, I believe this is the best thing in the short-run.
4. I would also like to correct those people who use seperatist and sovereignist interchangeably. The Bloc (in this past election) did not run on a separatist platform as they did in years past. Their interest is Quebec protection, not Canadian destruction.

johnny boucher
said

I dont think there would be as much outrage to a coalition government if the Liberals and NDP had a majority between them this is the point of view from a Harper supporter

Haig Moreton
said

Although the coalition is constitutionally viable, if public opinion is sufficiently divided, then the Governor General should choose the most democratic of the constitutional options which would be a new election where Canadian voters would decide. To reach such a solution would probably involve peroguing Parliament until the end of January when a new throne speech and budget would be presented and probably defeated, thus resulting in the dissolution of Parliament and calling a new election.
Haig Moreton, Boucherville QC

Brad C
said

I think this will be worst thing for Canada. If the Liberals get in and push through there "Green Shift" it will destroy what we have left of an economy. If this plan goes trough on Monday I will be starting a petition to have a new election, and I think that/hope that the Conservatives will get a majority this time.

T Sanders
said

Stand up for us, Stephen Harper. Don't back down. Do whatever you can to uphold the democratic rights of voters. Don't let the lying opposition parties spin themselves into destroying our country.

Self-serving liars. No matter how they hold the spin, we all know the truth. It's NOT about Canadian economics, but about party economics. And by the way, the Libs have done a poor job managing their own finances. Just imagine how poorly they can manage Canada's.

Claude - Calgary
said

I don't know why the opposition need to kick the government out...It is because Harper did not set money aside for the auto industry? Well the US didn't either (yet). Why would we give money to the auto industry when the US may want then to go bankrupt so they can start fresh? Unfortunately, our stimulus package depends on what the US do. Not much has been done so far except bail out their banks. Our banks are in good shape. By the way who will be our opposition parties now?

Steve, Yellowknife
said

Somebody earlier posted that Haerper's main goal was to exhaust voters so they don't come out and vote. The blogger said:

"ALL his tactics have been aimed at exhausting Canadians so that when only 30% of voters show up he'll achieve a resounding majority because those 30% are his base."

How wrong he is because any right winger is actually a hardworker who is out working his behind offand voting is actually more cumbersome to him. All the Liberal and NDP (especially the NDP) supporters are social welfare cases who have all the time the time in the world to go vote. The hardest thing for them is having to decide which bus route will take them from their parents basement to the polling station.

Diane
said

The Coalition has made a mockery of democracy - the Governor General should call an election - I for one will never again vote Liberal or NDP!

canophone
said

18 months co-operation is far better than the bullying tactics by the Conservatives during the last 3 years.

greg
said

To those who say a majority of Canadians did not vote for Harper anyway, Think!! Would they have voted Liberal or NDP had they known coalition with each other and the bloc was in the mandate. Who can say!!

On another note, Roger Cuzner, the liberal whip from cape Breton, commented on how his constituents are for keeping Harper accountable. I hope those same constituents understand when the regular flights of workers back and forth from Cape Breton to Ft McMurray ceases to a halt when their new comrade Mr Layton shuts down the oilsands and pushes his tax hike for 50 billion. Did the liberals in C.B vote for this?

Greg
Calgary, Ab

Alex (ottawa)
said

It makes me sick to my stomach that the Bloc has this much power when they only got 10% of the popular vote. We wouldn't be in this situation at all if it wasn't for our ridiculously undemocratic first-past-the-post voting system

Diane from London
said

The coalition is focusing on "the will of the house" as an excuse to do this coalition.

If they follow that logic then they cannot say that it is democratic for them to usurp power because the majority of Canadians did not vote Conservatives.

There were four parties to vote for and the party with the most votes, according to the rules of parliament ,wins. Therefore the Conservatives have a legitimate democratic mandate to govern.

Additionally the people that voted Liberal did not vote for a coalition, they voted Liberal. If a coalition was on the ballot some of those that voted Liberal then may not necessarily vote for the coalition, especially when the Bloc is involved.

Saying that the coalition is preferred by a majority of people is false. Additionally the numbers for the coaliiton are skewed by the Quebec vote which is all for it because of the extended power they will wield.

Play with fire..we will be burned.

If this coalition is a go it won't last more than a couple of months. The Liberals will bicker amongst themselves and with the NDP.
Gilles Duceppe will sit in the corner in glee getting everything he wants at the expense of the rest of Canada. The west will likely start a separatist movement of their own.

It is very sad and as Canadians we should stand up against these people and express our views.

Economics was just an excuse to try and take over a legally elected government.

Shame.

Steve R
said

This coalition is not democratic and does not represent the majority of Canadians, as some have suggested. It represents the majority of seats in Parliament, of which 49 belong to separatists. People who love this country and want it to work are the majority in NOT wanting this coalition. Have a referendum to confirm or just have another election.

mike alberta
said

The GG wil make her mind up. Hope she has some good common sense to see what is happening.

By the way people we could put 1 TRILLION dollars into the economy and it will not make the whole world better.

Canada does not control the world economy so we also have to watch what the other counties to see what they are doing also.

We can not give the Canadian Auto sector a big lump of moany unless the USA does, other wise the auto workers will get a paycheck if the big 3 go broke.

We can only watch and react which is what I hope is happening.

Clem
said

Who is paying for these radio ads. The tories or the tax payers?

Remember we the people elect Parliaments and Parliaments make a Government and Parliaments can break a Government.

Nothing wrong with our system, it has these features built in.

What a Country, I Love Canada.

Karl from GTA
said

Tom Hawley

Yours was the most intelligent synopsis of what is happening now.

Well done.

Manitoba Mike
said

Dion talks about the House (coup coalition) losing confidence in Harper?? Dion does not even enjoy the confidence of his own party, which is seeking to replace him in the very near future. How can he possibly believe he has any right to install himself as Prime Minister??

Nancy
said

Has eyeryone forgotten that this whole mess has been created by HARPER. he was elected to a minority government which means working WITH the other parties.
The people voted and did not trust him enough to give him a majority.
His actions have caused the non-confidence vote.

Johann Flores -Vancouver
said

This Coalition's so-called majority is strictly a majority in numbers. Not one of the 3 parties on their own recieved the majority of votes during the last election. We were given the choice to vote for the individual parties at that time not this new Coalition.

If this Coalition feels that they legitimately represent the will of the majority of The People of Canada then they should have no doubts nor fear in letting Us decide. The Governor General should call another election.

As much as I hate the thought of wasting my hard-earned tax money ($300 million divided by 30 million Canadians ~ $10 per Canadian), if it will decide things once and for all, it'll be a small price to pay to keep my faith in our Democracy.

If the Coalition then wins the majority, I will back down (which I am expected to do, which I wll do).

Joel Campbell, Petrolia, Ontario
said

Dear Sir:

The concept of a coalition government may be an interesting curiosity, but the coalition that has been recently agreed to is laughable and doomed to failure. The idea of the Liberal party entering into a political pact with the Bloc Quebecois is a travesty, both in terms of the Liberal party�s heritage and the political tradition of this country. Throughout Canadian history, the Liberal party has been the most important in advocating and pursuing national unity. The party has been led by many great, multi-term, patriotic Prime Ministers, including French-Canadians such as Wilfrid Laurier, Pierre Trudeau and Jean Chretien. These men aggressively pursued national unity throughout their terms, despite separatist hostility from French Canadian leaders such as Henri Bourassa, Rene Levesque, Jacques Parizeau and Lucien Bouchard.

Now the Liberals are led by a new French-Canadian who spits on the painstaking work of his pro-Canadian forerunners. He would ally Canada�s most nationalistic party with the separatist Bloc Quebecois. This is madness. Stephane Dion is not fit to run his own party, let alone this country. As even the Liberal faithful will admit, Dion is directly responsible for the worst election outcome for Liberals in decades, and has proved incompetent in leading his party forward. Dion is a desperate man, on his way out the door, looking to be replaced as Liberal leader within months. Desperate men resort to desperate measures, but can he really be so desperate as to unite with politicians so diametrically opposed to his party�s strongest principles?

Canada has just gone through a long election process. Stephen Harper did not win 50% or more of the House of Commons. He does not have a majority government. However, the Conservative party clearly has the largest share of support from Canadians across Canada. They have formed a government. Would those belonging to the three losing parties of the last election seek to overturn the will of the Canadian people over sour grapes?

When Canadians cast their votes, they voted for a member of a particular party that represented specific political ideologies and platforms, be they Conservative, Liberal, NDP, Bloc, or others. Did Liberal supporters vote for this alliance? Did NDP supporters? Did the Bloc supporters? Absolutely not! Though the currently elected members of these three parties could mathematically make a majority government when mashed together, the real question is would Canadians vote for this mish-mash coalition over the unified Conservative party?

In sum, the proposed coalition government may be constitutional, but it is not Canadian, not democratic, and not right. In addition, the proposed coalition triumvirate is sure to be short-lived as there is no conceivable way three parties and leaders with such different ideologies can co-exist for very long. The coalition conundrum is sure to further destabilize our political climate and add no promise for stability and resolution in the near future, other than, perhaps, a clear Conservative majority in the next election spurred on by disgruntled and disillusioned voters.

T. Camelot
said

Karen from Ottawa

Aren't there even 11 decent opposition members who will cross the floor and put an end to this ill advised coalition for the sake of this great country's political and economical future???

I kringe at the thought of Dion (who can't even manage his own party's finances - as he still owes money for his election two years ago)running this great country!!!

And to all the people who keep saying Harper is doing nothing for this country, don't they listen to the news or do they just not understand? The rest of the world keep pointing to Canada as being in the best economic position of all the G8 countries to weather this global economic crisis. So obviously, the rest of the world recognizes that our current government must be doing things right.

When times are hard everybody should tighten their belts not just throw billion of dollars at the problem without examining the situation thoroughly.

MS montreal
said

Gotta love the attack ads stevie. Way to show that the opposition is wrong by good ol' fashioned mud slinging. You tried a coalition yourself so sit on it and take what you've got coming.

Janet for Oshawa
said

I KNOW Canadians did NOT vote for the Separatists to rule CANADA! The whole premise of the Bloc is to SEPARATE from Canada! Shame on you Mr. Layton and Mr. Dion for making a deal with the Bloc. Call another election, don't make a deal with Separatists! TRUE Canadians do not support seperatists!

bren in ottawa
said

This ridiculous..First..the governor general cannot appoint a govt, not can dion say that he will be leader. the GG can onmly appoint some member of the house to establish a new governmnet. To take power away from the party that has won the most votes has never happened. Yes, 60% of voters did not vote for Steve harper, but more voted for him then anyone else...which means he wins. No one voted for the coalition which we were assured would never happen. Further..they are saying its because the Harper govt is running to close to a deficit but then have admitted that they will run a minimum 30billion dollar deficit for four years running, and harper has kept us out of deficit...insane. So much for democracy. While we have soldiers in foreign lands helping those people win the right to vote in a democratic system, the party that sent them there ( liberals) is destroying the same democracy here in canada. Nice to come home to.

Mike in NB
said

please call another election, at least then if the coalition wins power it will have legitimacy. Who can complain about that?

Dave
said

If a coalition is democratic then so is proroguing parliament. Nobody wants to see Layton as Minister of Trade and Industry.

Andrew Noble, Montreal
said

The lie is that if the country overwhelmingly voted against Dion as prime minister (in this country we don't vote for the prime minister - we vote for a member of parliament - the party elects their leader and the party who manages to gain a majority forms the govt). The same argument can be made about Harper - the country overwhelmingly voted against him as Prime Minister as well. The conservative did not receive a majority.

The coalition (Liberal and NDP) actually received 44.4% of the popular vote as opposed to the Conservatives who only received 37.6% of the popular vote. The Bloc received another 10%. So the coalition with the support of the Bloc, actually represent a majority of Voters.

If you now take into account the fact that we had the worst voter turnout, most likely because Canadians were upset at Harper's election, the argument that people actually did overwhelmingly not support Harper.

Stop your lies and arrogance Harper, take responsibility for your actions and step aside. Prorogation would be a pathetic attempt at clinging to power.

Chris M in NS
said

If this coalition wants to fall back on parliamentary tradition to justify itself, it then needs to follow another parliamentary tradition and seek a mandate from the people within 6mo.

Nope, the last thing they want to do is let us have a say in this. The have appointed themselves into power until AT LEAST 2011.

To all you coalition supporters I say, BRING ON AN ELECTION! That is the only true way to clear the air here!

John Smith
said

That's great ... an economic stimulus package that will help the auto industry that will be paid for through additional taxation (in other word, ME!).

Then, I need a new truck, which I am taxed on, so I buy one that is made in Ontario and, effectively, I am now paying double.

Makes sense, doesn't it.

Quick word: We voted for a individual parties, not a "coalition." Send us back to the polls. If the Liberals/NDP/Bloc/Green stick together as a "coalition" for the next election, we'll know it's sincere and in the best interests of Canadians. But, I'm quite certain this will not be the case. The Parties will go their separate ways looking to increase their positions within the House.

Think about this...

Luke
said

Harper,Harper,Harper you just couldn't try to make a minority work, now we have this. This is all the PM's fault now imagine a Harper majority, Bush anyone? The coalition might have the Bloc but if they can all make the government work, why not try it, Harper can't. If the Conservatives want to stay in power the opposition should let them if they get rid of the leader. Stephen, Stephen, Stephen...

Raywal
said

Let me get this straight.....

1) We have all the MPs working for the people right? If this session is dissolved and essentially no government is governing, how much are their salaries costing the tax payer? Lead by example? I don't think so...shame on all of you.....for wasting our time and our money during this critical time.....

2) Mr Harper.....you made a lapse in judgment.....by seeking the support of the GG to dissolve the session until January so you can "reset" and start over.(like nothing happened)...is complete nonsense.....you think we are living in a fantasy world, where we can just erase our missteps and consequences.....must be nice....be a man and stand up, reach out and make the change now....perhaps you should think of crossing the aisle before Dec 8th, and be reaching out to all parties that could only unify the country. This is not a "one person show", we all need to be part of the process....this is a sign of true leadership and would minimize this constant bickering that is getting us nowhere.....we don't want you to spend another $350 million on an election....

jessie synek
said

I am very much disgusted with the situation on the hill where opposition parties are trying to form a Government without the consent of the Canadian people. Canadians have elected Stephen Harper as Prime Minister, not Stephane Dion. Our voice need to be heard. If there is any power change, that needs to be decided by the Canadian people. In this time of economic crisis, we do not need opposition parties struggling for power. Let Stephen Harper who is elected by the Canadian people do his job. Coalition party will only ruin our country to the brink of destruction at this time of economic crisis. If there is any election, so be it. Let the Canadian people decide who they want as Prime Minister not anyone else.

Jessie Synek
Ottawa

Kevin Allan
said

The Harper Government was suppose to fall Monday in a confidence vote. We now have an illegitimate Government running Canada now in my opinion.

So it seems now Mr Harper will cancel Parliament. Why not just bring in the MILITARY AND ARREST THE OPPOSITION ? So much for democracy.

In the last Parliament, Mr Harper threaten Canadians with over 40 ELECTIONS (confidence votes) and now that he will loose a confidence vote, he runs away and HIDES.

Dd
said

Hey Paul....Harper didn't seem to have any scruples about forming a coalition with the Bloc a few years ago.

The man is a hypocrite through and through.

Shannon
said

I agree with Mike...they are acting like a bunch of children. There was an election, and Canada voted. If you didn't vote, that was your mistake. I voted. I do not agree that the bullies of the opposition parties should have the right to take over this elected government, when they were not elected. This country will downslide if these opposition parties take control. Nothing will get done, and it will waste taxpayers money. Send them all to their rooms for a time-out!

Marj Stevens
said

As a Liberal supporter/voter, I am disgusted by the alliance with the NDP/Bloc and the backroom deals. I'd rather vote in another election, than give Quebec 1.3$ billion in additional transfer payments as reported in the Quebec media. It'd be cheaper, and everyone could vote on how they feel about this coalition.

Randy - Edmonton
said

During the last election the Canadian people did not chose a MAJORITY government. What we are seeing today with the formation of a coalition government and the non-confidence of the house with the current MINORITY government is our system of Government in action. People are correct we did not vote for Liberal or NDP or Bloc government. We also did not vote for a PC government. Mr. Harper was provided the opportunity to lead the House with the largest MINORITY of seats in the house. This has now being challenged by a larger MINORITY of "elected" members of the House of Commons. This could have easily have happened on Election day. In a 4 or 5 party system we can continue to see these types of situations occur more often. So we need to let the "elected" representatives from all parties work through this. We elected them for exactly this reason. The current barrage of ads on TV and comments and innuendos on the various web sites does nothing to work through a very tense government process. So lets stop the fear mongering and let the MP's do the jobs we elected them to do.

Jim in Markham
said

All the talk about power grab and the attack on the GG being an unelected official. Educate yourself on the Law of Canada and how Parliament of Canada works, but not from Harper. Do a little independent research yourself. The GG was appointed by the Queen on the advice of the PM. It was Harper who broke his own law to call the last election. Is the bully too stupid to learn from that lesson or does he think he can bully and fool the GG and all the Canadian who did not vote for him. Not a chance! Steven, time to join you master Bush and let others fix the mess you have gotten us into.

Joseph in Halifax
said

It has been a long time that I have seen such emotion from us Canadians concerning the government. I agree with most of what is being said here, but the most important thing that we all must understand that this is how our system of government works. We may not like it, but they are allowed to pound thier chests and cry foul all they want. Now to place person in the Office of PM that was rejected by his own party and had already resigned is stupid. Then to have this person replaced in May, I feel the Liberals should get thier own house in order before they try to straighten out Canada. As for Jack, I think he knows that this is the only way that the NDP can really get a voice in Government, I say shame on you Mr. Layton. The more we discuss this, the more I hope people will come out to the polls and vote next time and we won't have this mess. For the Children in Ottawa, you have a job to do, and from what I see a pretty good wage for little work, so get on with it.

Tom Hawley
said

A lot who post here seem to be ignorant of what the PM is trying to achieve or you are Conervative posters .
How many times in the last parliament did Harper reach out to the Bloc for support to keep him in power?
People posting that are against the Bloc "holding" power ,they have it now!
Do you honestly believe this is going to be an open for Quebec separation? It appears some of you dislike Quebec more than the coalition itself.
Perhaps all this boils down to is Harper,the puck hog, coughed up the puck in the neutral zone and the oppostion is on a break away .And now you are hoping the GG can play nets.

J. Coulson
said

As a Canadian who has voted in every election since eligible I do not support a coalition which includes the Bloc Quebecois, a party whose mandate lies solely in the interests of a one province. In the last democratic election the people (who exercise their right to vote) chose the Conservative Party of Canada to govern this country. The Liberal and the NDP parties ran candidates in every province and territory and did not win a sufficient amount of seats to form a coalition government themselves. Their parties were not elected to govern Canada with BQ support. Had Canadians forseen this I'm sure the outcome of the election would have been a Conservative majority. Should the GG decide to grant the reins of government to this coalition it will only serve to further alienate the Canadian voter. Dion is not and never will be PM material and even his own party wants him replaced after choosing him a short while ago. How can a party whose leader has indicated his intent to resign be a stable choice to govern this country. I hope the GG's decision is thoughtful as she cannot approve of this coalition. The 3 party leaders seeking power are so hungry for it they have no respect or regard for the voters choice. Even the Liberal want-to-be leaders are distancing themselves from this fiasco should it hurt their aspirations within their own party. Why doesn't one of these individuals step up to the plate and offer to lead the coalition�go figure�this group is really offering some stable government alternative with their lame duck leader!..... I'd rather return to the polls on a -35 degree Canadian winter day.

Glenn MacNeil
said

Absolutely mind boggling that an academic who I would only follow across the street out of idle curiosity has the audacity to assume that he has the right to align himself with a separatist party and highjack an elected, government. This is the same out of touch autocrat that announced when he lost all those Liberal seats just a few weeks ago that he was going to do the honorable thing and resign as leader of the party. But now with a half-baked idea he has the nerve to even think that anyone in Canada would back him as a Leader. Stop the insanity, accept the Canadian publics choice and resign. Then do all of Canada a favour and go back to the halls of academia were you truly belong.

John from Saskatoon
said

I don't understand people's comments about the majority of people not voting for the Prime Minister. The fact is in our system the most seats makes you PM. If you look at the popular vote the Liberals had with their governments it was in the low 40's. With a multi party system you'll never get over 50% of the popular vote. And by the way, well over 70% of the country wanted nothing to do with the Liberals as govt. and close to 80% said not a chance to the NDP. How does joining their popular vote make them the people's choice?

Elizabeth, Ontario
said

I voted on October 14, 2008.
I do not recall "Coalition" being an option.
Canadians should decide who governs Canada - not a coalition of opposition leaders who did not win enough seats to govern Canada.
I hope that GG will see through this power grab and send Canadians back to the polls. Canadian people have the right to an elected government. Shame on Layton, Dion and Duceppe.

Willem H. Bokhout, CD, CET, WO (Ret'd), Kingston,
said

The voters of Canada have already decided the direction the country will move in.

They voted for the Conservatives and their party platform!!

Stephan Dion and his unholy alliance with Seperatists in the form of the Bloc Quebecois flies in the face of traditional Liberal party platforms and policy.

The Governor-General has an obligation to allow the Conservatives to bring down a budget for the review of the House of Commons. If it isnt approved then, by all means, lets go to the polls...again!

However, the current course of action by "Her Majestys Loyal Opposition" smacks of a Coup E'Etat!!

Lets not dishonour Parliamentary tradition.

Give 'em hell Stephen!!

Matt from Niagara Falls, Canada
said

The funny thing about all this is that Harper tried to do the same thing in 2004 with the Bloc. No one had issues as the Conservatives do right now. Double Standard? Harper has lost the House Confidence period. Whether he porogues the government now, he will loose a vote of confidence the first chance the House gets in January. If anyone is trying to grab power, its Harper trying to grasp and keep it. GG needs to look at all angle here, realize that the government is not working and do something about it, either let ALL CANADIANS decide who should run the country, or let the Coalition set up the new government. Stop this crap in Ottawa and get our elected officials working for the country. I watched question period yesterday, it was terrible to watch all of the insults from the right and the left of the House Speaker. And one more point, the coalition has a written accord, a contract if you will that all 3 parties will co-operate in the house for at least 20 months.....does Harper have this guarantee? No! Govener General DO THE RIGHT THING....everyone email the GG at info@gg.ca and state your opinion.

Den
said

Ah, attack ads... Conservatvies are master marketers, and weak caretakers of our environemnt, economy and social fabric.

Brandi in NS
said

It is obvious that many people leaving comments here don't know how our system of gov't works. Unlike the US, we do not vote for a "leader." The PM must have the confidence of the house. Harper decided he didn't want to work with the other parties. His gov't is in a minority situation. He lost the confidence of the house. This mess sits on the shoulders of Stephen Harper. If he can't work with a few hundred people in the H of C, how can he be trusted to represent the interests millions of Canadians? He should step down, or let the coalition rule.

Sheila Weaver; Lindsay Ont. Canada
said

One must believe that if three parties of highly intellectual individuals primarily involved in politicsfeel that the coalition is necessary,then it must be so.However,it is too bad that they hadn't fought harder just a few weeks ago,when the country re-elected a minority Conservative Gov't.

Michael from Toronto
said

If people believe this is legitimate, it is the same thing as what happened in the last elections when Elizabeth May of the Greens was accused of telling her voters to vote for the Liberals and NDP simply to block the Conservatives.

To function effectively, a country must have parties who put forward HONEST credible platforms to govern; it cannot be reduced to a rabble of politicians who simply campaign out of personal dislike for another politician and hatch schemes to fool people to vote their way. Democracy cannot be turned into a soap opera stage for personal disputes between politicians. We have to demand politicians to focus on working for Canada instead of personal disputes between leaders.

Liberal and NDP voters, you must demand that your leaders provide credible benefits to Canada; and not partake in a shameless personal exercise simply to grab power. The right to govern must be won by merit, by demonstrating to you that they have the ability and foresight to lead the country for the longer term. If your leaders have not earned the right to govern don't vote for them.

Democracy is not about partisanship. I always vote according to my own beliefs and according to what I see is better for Canada.

This coalition cooked up by Layton is just a power grab and the country will suffer under this unholy alliance of opposing interests. Decision making will be paralyzed and relegated to the lowest common denominator.

William
said

So Harper wants to prorogue Parliament - isn't that basically our "government" going on strike? You know, the thing he was going to legally prevent public servants from doing...

Paul from Brantford.
said

I oppose the Coalition.

Lets go to the polls and find out.

Last time I voted the ballot didn't have coalition on it.

I hope the GG will stop this madness.

Jim from Ontario
said

The Liberals and NDP must realize by now with the exploding public backlash, a coalition with the Separatists is not going to fly. It just ain't. If the West and non-Toronto Ontario were shut out of government it would rip the country apart.

Hopefully there are some sane voices in the Conservative and Liberal camps, where both sides accept some responsibilities for this crisis and we move on to governing.

Both the Liberals and Conservatives hold the ability to destroy each other and the country. Both sides must have enough members who could work together to help the country without being held for ransom by the Socialist or Separatist fringe.

It ain't personal, it's business... the business of running a country through the worst global economic crisis in 70 years.

S. Brown, St. John's
said

There is no loss of confidence but only what the opposition see as an opportunity to grab power.

Why can one single Liberal appointed person now have all the power to choose which government we have. We do have a good democratic system but there is a 'flaw' in it. One that has not been brought to any of the public attention until now. I want a say in what is going on. When I voted 7 weeks ago a Lib/NDP/BLOC coalition was not on the ballot.

Jeff
said

This situation has only to do with power and nothing else, the cost of which we saw yesterday with the Bloq's standing ovation in the house.

John and others: Let's stop using the bogus argument that Harper did not get a majority of the votes (around 38%). Jean Chretien didn't recieve over 40% in any of the elections inwhich he lead the Liberals to majority governments either.

mark
said

I'm so sick of comments stating that Harper did not receive a majority of the votes. NOBODY ELSE DID EITHER, PEOPLE! This is how we have elected our government in the past.

Also, if this coalition gives more ground to the separatists, it's almost a good thing. I wouldn't be too sad to see my tax dollars stop flowing to fund "French culture".

Laura in Winnipeg
said

We live in a representational democracy. The candidate with the most votes win. Our electoral processes do not allow for arbitrary collections of diverse votes to count together to allow the claim that "more Canadians voted against the Conservatives." Fact is, more Canadians didn't vote at all, which, according to research, indicates that they are satisfied with the direction of their government going into the election. Secondly, the Bloc/PC proposal of a few years ago was to defeat a government that had ignored TWICE the largest public outcries in history against proposed legislation - which they rammed through anyway, and that had lost several confidence votes - but it was NEVER about governing together.
These are grave times and Canadian citizens need to detach their emotions and their political stripes and look hard at what is happening. Jack Layton keeps saying the government has lost the confidence of the House but he has no hard evidence. Whether we like the current policies or not, Canada is functioning well according to external world authorities...in another place and time, the National Party leaders would be hung for treason. Perhaps their parties will do just that when this is all over. For the sake of Canada, peace, our economy and the future for our kids, we need to trust the processes we have established, or democratically, carefully and constitutionally change them - together

Claude
said

Calling another election at this time would be terrible. The last election had the lowest voter turnout, and if another election would be called...it will be even lower. Steve needs to start working with others, and stop being a big baby that wants everything his way!

Debi Menescus
said

A coalition government is the only viable option at this point. After all, it's what we would have had is we used proportional representation.
Let's try to at least semi-accurately reflect the desires of Canadians.

Alanna, Regina
said

In past elections, I voted for the Liberal candidate in my area. In the recent election I voted for the conservative candidate due to the policies the liberals wanted to adopt. I was very pleased when Prime Minister Harper was re-elected. Now I find my self even more disgusted with the liberals than i was before the election. The liberals and the ndp really need to wake up. I truly hope that the Gov Gen will give them that wake up call and call another election. Then Canada can voice their opinion again. I think it would be a completely different outcome this time.

Buddha
said

I think Harper dug his own pit.
The coalition is flawed.
I fear for my country.
The antics in the house yesterday were far from the actions of enlightened adults. These guys need to learn some non-violent communication skills.
My hope: Harper backs down from his ineffective economic strategy and partisan approach and the coalition dissolves

Gail (Hamilton)
said

If the Governor General decides that Canada should have a coalition government, then she will be making the most morally wrong decision. While our parliamentary system does allow this possibility, I will never stand for or sing our national anthem, nor salute the new socialist motherland takeover by greedy, power hungry, all controlling politicians.

Tamera
said

It's about time, bye bye Harper! It's time the real men take over.
Go coalition go!

Paul MacPherson
said

The End Game -- The Liberal Strategy

(I am a conservative, but I must respect this end game... well run politics)

Step 1) Let Harper say something stupid... done
Step 2) Seize power... in progress
Step 3) Make Dion the scape goat... in progress
Step 4) Dion becomes Prime Minister
Step 5) 3 months to ensure Dion takes on all the negative fallout of the new Coalition Government
Step 6) in May... Dion is gloriously and ceremoniously removed from power by the Liberals
Step 7) The Liberals are still the party in power.
Step 8) Over the next 12 months... Canada gets over it... we don't hold grudges, and as good Canadians we give out NEW Prime Minister a chance.
Step 9) Canada hits the polls after a year with a new Liberal Prime Minister... Canadians having short memories rarely change governments and the Liberals win a Minority government in 2011.

Well run Politics... Harper and his Conservative party blew it.

Rebekah Ewashko
said

I am 16 years old. I feel that the gov' general should not allow the coalition. The voters pick Stephen Harper, not anyone else. They are just acting like a bunch of kids in a playground. They should just grow up and start acting like mature grownups. This is sad. What is this counrty coming to.

Alex Martinez
said

Alex from Waterloo
Can someone explain to me how Canadians are not rising against the Prime Minister but rather against such coalition as there will be rallies throughout the country. I did not hear nor see Canadians, the masses, asking for the opposition to bring down this government. It's an unadulterated power grab to the extent that even Elizabeth May wants into the fray and spoils. She would be content with a seat in the Senate. Wow unbelievable! This has gotten personal, so, If I say that I hate Stephen Harper am I entitled to a Seat in the Senata too. Gov.-Gen. Michaelle Jean please do the right thing and call an election.

Darlene, NS
said

Several people have pointed out that this is exactly the way our Parliamentary system is designed to work and this is true. That does not, however, make it right or just or democratic by today's standards.

Consider for a moment, at the same time our Parliamentary system was set up, the following was also the law in Canada - domestic abuse was legal and within all the rules; divorce was illegal; women were not legal persons and not allowed to vote; trade unions were considered "criminal conspiracies" and illegal; illegal acts were punishable by whipping or death by hanging. Should we still be following these antiquated rules and laws as well? Of course not!

For heavens sake, don't you people realize by now that just because something 'is', that does not automatically make it 'right'!

That we are only voting in an MP is also not the commonly held belief, by citizens and politicians alike. Evidence this by the fact that it is the federal leadership of each party that is spending millions on advertising right across the country - Vote for ME! Bring my party into power! The electorate of Canada voted with the sincere belief that they were voting in a prime minister as well as their MP, regardless of what the actual rules say.

If we were misled in the true nature of what our votes actually stand for then we deserve the right to go back to the polls and vote with full disclosure by all.

Call an election and let us vote.

Wayne - Stoney Creek
said

This whole mess is a sad state of affairs. We have a PM who wants to govern without realizing he is in a minority government, who would rather run attack ads than govern. Then we also have three amigos, who seemingly have a plan, but not the mandate from the poeple. Personally I would go with someone who at least has a plan.

Maybe this will tide us over until Harper goes, get replaced by a Conservative who understands "Good Government" then things can get back to normal.

DavidL
said

Jack Layton campaigned on the platform that he was going after the job of Prime Minister.

Now we know exactly what he was talking about.

Earl Robert
said

This coalition would not be in the best interests of Canada. Separatist's don't swear an allegiance to Canada. The Governor General should not advance the agenda of the separatist's. The entire world is watching. If the Government looses the confidence of the House of Commons, Canadians, not separatist's must decide the future of Canada. A Federal election is the only peaceful way to resolve this situation.

chris from ontario
said

Harper didn't have a problem with this in 2004. His the biggest hypocrite ever. He didn't win popular vote either. He should stop advertising with taxpayers money and own up to his errors. He nedds to let the GG do her duty.

gerard lavallee
said

Give the coalition a chance.

Bill in Ont
said

I might also remind people who are carrying on about the Bloc, that from 1993 -1997 they were in fact, the official opposition in the Canadian Parliament. Wow, how could we have let that happen.

James
said

The GG, her excellency sees to it that government parties that are elected govern. In her very responsible and noble position, she has discreton to see that Canada is not a victim of a power grab by a coalition of left leaning Socialists sleeping together long enough to bring down the only government that will allow Canada to function and flourish. A coalition with the Bloc is a disaster waiting to happen. I remind you they are Separatists who almost tore the country apart in 1995. So they bring down the government in their power struggle. The country will only become more divisive with splinter groups making any elected party's job even more difficult to govern. The GG has an important role and she needs to take the lead and use the discretion in her position to prorogue Parliament as Prime Minister Stephen Harper has suggested. This coalition is not in te best interests of Canadians and Canada will always be better together celebrating our differences and most importantly what we have in common. The GG, her excellency, is exerting her power to allow the Conservative Party of Canada to lead Canada in the right direction just after our federal Election. Give the Conservatives time to work and see how proud we can be as Canadians who can see beyond the power struggle. No to the coalition.

Dave in Nepean
said

Hey Dion and Layton care to tell the Canadian voters what you promised the Bloc heads for their support. I would really like to know what they wanted from you two to keep you two in power for a year. Please have the decency to tell us voters what the deal was, how much is it going to cost the Canadian tax payer for Bloc head support.

Trevor - Dawson Creek, BC
said

With five parties to vote for, I don't know if it is possible anymore for anyone to have a mjority government. Just like how our founders wanted Canada to have a distinct culture where english and french culutre combined and that gave birth to our fractured multiculturalism; our democratic vision of allowing any political group a chance to run for government has led to a fractured democracy. We need to start being Canadians first agian.

Linda
said

Now that the Liberals and the Bloc are in bed for the next 18 months, it should be easy for the Liberals to pay the $1m to the Bloc from the $40m owing in back payment from the sponsorship scandal that the Liberals have so conveniently forgotten about and made no repayment of yet. On that note, the NDP and Bloc should go after the Liberals for their $1.95 per vote which supposedly spurred this whole thing. Then they can all go back to hibernate for the winter and give our Country half a chance in this Economic recession.

John E
said

Now this is the way a true democracy works. The people vote for the MPs, the party in power must work to gain the confidence of the house, if they can't the GG is called in to sort out the mess. By the way to prorogue Parliament in order to prevent a non-confidence is incorrect it will only delay the non-confidence vote. Remember this is no longer about the budget it is about the Economy and the house confidence in the govt party to deal with it. As an aside... Quebec and Alberta are the smartest voters because the vote in a Block. Quebecer feel their interests are served by the Bloc and Alberta feels its interest are served by a Block vote for the Conservatives. NF is getting there, but beware Ontario may one day vote for an Ontario First Party.

Couse
said

I am not sure how ever if I voted liberal I am sure I did not like the mandate for NDP or BLOC if I was NDP I am sure I would not have liked the Mandates for the Bloc and the Liberals, If I voted BLOC well I am sure I would not have liked any ones mandates but the BLOCs. Now in say this it goes the same for the Conservatives if I did not vote for them it would have been for the same reasons . I feel the NDP, Liberals and BLOC parties have issues that need to be addressed and for the three of them to join a alliance to over run the government is insane. What kinda men do we as Canadians have running our Country I can see a bunch of little kids trying to fight to see who is the big guy but lets be real at this time in our economic situation do we have the resources to let these politicians mess with our country. I think not lets leave the fighting for our Troops who have been train to do the job right. If they can not meet the criteria to become the Next Priminister of our great country then so be it carry on get another Job, MacDonalds and WalMart always has a help wanted signs on thier windows Jack, Dion and Mr Doucet

Jason
said

I have got news for you people that say the majority of us Canadians didn't vote for Mr. Harper... If we had a normal two party system then Mr. Harper would have still Been our prime Minister today... 37% of the vote is huge when there is 4 parties or more in the mix. Along with the fact that we have one party that runs only in Quebec. This one province party once help the official oppostion... how is that right??? the fact is that the majority of Canadians did vote for Mr. Harper... I have never talked to one person that wanted Mr. Dion in charge of thier country... and the majority of Canadians are so scared of Mr. Layton they refuse to vote for the NDP.. the only people in the country that want the Bloc to have any power are separatists from Quebec... So you people tell me why if we were so scared to have any of these three men solely in charge of Canada why the heck do you want them to run it together... you all need to give your heads a shake....

Dan
said

Whether or not this is constitutionally sound or not is irrelevant. The Conservative government has made some mistakes but the response by the opposition parties is over the top. Here are the major problems with a coalition:

-the Bloc will hold the balance of power. (did anyone hear Duceppe's comments regarding how this will aid the separatists' cause yesterday?)

-we will have a prime minister that most Canadians do not support and who does not even have the support of his own party

-6 NDP cabinet ministers and 6 NDP parliamentary secretaries? Is this really the time for cabinet ministers with little or no experience?

Prorogung is really the only option to let these leaders work things out. Dissolving parliament hastily and allowing a coalition gov't has the most risk of all the options and if/when it fails there will be huge consequences in terms of the economy and Canadian unity.

Michael from Toronto
said

The NDP under Layton has managed to make a mockery of Canadian democracy. They are the architects of this soap opera. A party that used to have principles has now shed all of its core beliefs. It used to pride itself as the conscience of the nation - this is hardly the stuff to be proud of.

The pathetic Liberals would grab at straws now and they should be ashamed but they seem to be mainly tagging along. Liberals have always been a party of convenience and opportunism. This is an opportunity for them. They never had any principles to begin with.

As for the Bloc, they are true to their own cause, the dismantling of Canada. You cannot blame the Bloc for what they are doing - we let them exist in Canada and they are fulfilling their mandate to exit Qu�bec from Canada. French Canadians see these matters in their own way, different from the rest of Canada.

John in Toronto
said

Think about it folks. If Harper wanted his majority or the ability to have a closet majority, then he would have had to make exactly the same deal with at least one of the other parties. Now for sure it wouldn't be the Libs or NDP so it would have left him the Bloc. Can any ONE Conservative supportor believe that if Duceppe came to Harper with a backroom deal that would give Harper a majority, that he would turn Duceppe down.His thirst for power is so strong there is no way in hell he would turn down that deal. So someone please tell me what's the difference plus Harper already tried this once so what's he complaining about.

Moe
said

Why do people say the "majority didn't vote for the Conservatives"? They did! In each region there are a full slate of choices for people to choose from and what is apparently obvious is that the Conservatives trounced the Liberals and the NDP, the Bloc....who cares as they are a joke that should never even be allowed in the Federal arena. And having said that, if there were no Bloc I am sure the Conservatives would have had a majority. No, the people spoke and the Conservatives were chosen. Just because all of the other parties combined added to a slightly higher percentage only means that they are fractured parties sharing the left vote. Harper is P.M. because the people said so.

Prof. Pye Chartt
said

Lest there is anyone left in Canada who heartfully believes that this socialist-separtist coup by The Gang of Three (Four?) represents anything other than a selfish power-grab orchestrated solely for PERSONAL reasons, one need only look at the video from Parliament yesterday in which Stephane Dion was so PERSONALLY hateful towards PM Harper that he, literally, spit saliva across the floor and could barely speak without trembling.

Quite a sight. Scary.

Indeed, it's about power and unbridled lust for it. But it's all so PERSONAL. Ultimately, it has absolutely NOTHING to do with the betterment of Canada...and, thankfully, Canadians now seem to be well aware. Keep flooding Parliament Hill and the Governor General with emails!

Clarke
said

Don't you people get it. For those saying that these are just the rules of a parliamentary democracy, I completely agree with you, but that doesn't make it right. Every prominent separatist has said this will do great things to advance their cause. The unity of Canada is what is important. We can not let a party determined to destroy Canada to be an key player in the government! No exceptions.

It is ridiculous to think that the Bloc hasn't asked for the moon to support this coalition.

bob in winnipeg
said

Those who feel they need to lecture people like me, who very deeply feel that this coalition is undemocratic- about how a parlimentary democracy works are, to quote tigger in Winnie the Pooh- one burrito short of a combination plate.

I know very well how a parlimentary system works, and this is not it. To suggest that most people did not vote for Harper as PM also misses the point.

The point being that, very simply, more people voted for conservatives than any other party, certainly far more than Dion, and more than Liberal and NDP together.

The cry that Harper somehow is not working with the other parties is BS. It is the other parties that took the economic update- a very reasonable one at that- and made this the pretense for an already-cooked up rational to steal power that was not given to them by the voters. NOBODY voted for this.

Furthermore, to suggest that people like me who are offended by all this are simply repeating conservitive talking points is, well, rather like saying that the Bloc is concerned for the welfare of all of Canada. In other words, false.

Don J.
said

To those suggesting we don't vote next time - are you serious? Don't you see this is exactly what Harper has been working towards for three years? ALL his tactics have been aimed at exhausting Canadians so that when only 30% of voters show up he'll achieve a resounding majority because those 30% are his base. It makes me sick that Canadians will on the one hand scream in total ignorance about our system, buy into Harper's rhetoric without even knowing better, then basically suggest we hand a majority to the man. Yes, give him a majority, then we won't have to worry about elections ever again - Harper will crown himself king and abolish the entire system. He has pretty much said so. I just can't believe how STUPID we can be. Sickening.

A BC Voter
said

How does the saying go, what is good for the goose is good for the gander. Harper tried to have Paul Martin's Government dissolved in favour of his Torie without an election back in 2004. How come it was not unconstitutional the? Oh, yes, that's because of Harper's bullying technique.

Although Dion's performance was not very good last election, let us give credit to a man who has the guts to pull three parties together to put down a bully.

Andy
said

People are afraid that this deal was signed with Quebec soveignists.

We have to see that not only soveignists voted for the Bloc Quebecois. They got 49/75 seats in Quebec.

However, at the provincial level, the sovereignist Parti Quebecois is about to suffer a third consecutive loss with only 30% of the vote. The federalist Liberal Party in latest polls are projected to get 46% percent of the vote. The autonomous Action Democratique (federalists) would get 12% of the vote.

Even a quarter of Parti Quebecois voters are against sovereignty. That is something! About 67% of Quebecers are AGAINST sovereignty.

So Mr. Harper lets not turn this into a national unity issue when the sovereignist cause is not popular and federalism is favored in Quebec.

DO NOT RUIN THIS!

Stephen Harper tells sovereignist they've signed the soul over to liberal federalists and tells liberals they are sleeping with sovereignists. Make up your mind Mr. Harper. Which one is it?

The Governor General should not listen to here advisor, Prime Minister Harper, in the case where he would ask the GG to perogue or dissolve Parliament since this advisor clearly doesn't have the confidence in the House and that someone else in the House has the confidence of a majority of members. She therefore has to consider Stephane Dion's recommendations.

Nobody is stealing anybody's vote.

If we were in a presidential proportionnal system, either Mr. Harper would have had to make a coalition or the opposition would have had to do the same.

Mr. Harper dug this hole by not listening to the people, trying to push his agenda.

Instead of crossing partisan lines to work for the people like the opposition, Mr. Harper decided to do differently.

What's good for Quebec is good for other provinces (Money for forestry (QC, BC), manufacturing (QC, ON), + $ for auto sector.

Rob - A scared for my wallet guy
said

The Coalition may have the confidence of the house, but I think it is safe to say that it certainly does not have the support of the majority of Canadians. If people were able to look at this objectively after removing there diliske and disttust of the PM and Conservatives. they would see how bad this has the potential to be.

I believe that there has been sufficent voice to send us back to the polls if the government is dissolved. let us as voters decide where we want to go and how we want our economy managed. Granted we did that just 6 or 7 weeks ago, but as others have said I would rather 300 million than 30 Billion wasted, it is not the answer to pulicise a private companies losses in this manner. Wow I am all over the map.

Carol Shypitka, Castlegar
said

Ian
I would like to know how this can be called democracy when all three opposition parties got their vote on a no coalition plateform. We the people should be the ones voting on a coalition government. I can guantee the voter turnout will be good and we would get a real view of how our country wants to be governed. I encourage all people who do not vote to read what each party stands for and make your voice heard.

Erin
said

I want another election so I can vote for Mr. Harper again. We need stability, we need a budget that meets this crisis, and we need to get rid of the nonsense spewing out of Jack Layton and Dion right now.

Robert Brise
said

Call for another election its guarateed that the voters will elect a majority government, now that everyone knows, who the liberals and NDPrs stand for or with!!!!!

Stuart
said

Hilarious how all these Conservative yes-men are whinging about how undemocratic this is. In point of fact, this is far more democratic than Harper canning the legitimate democratic process of a coalition.

We do not vote for a PM. We vote for a bunch of normal people who then form a government under a party banner. This proposed coalition, if anything, is MORE representative - MORE people voted for the MPs involved in the coalition, and a bipartite government has a better chance of representing MORE people.

Democracy in action! But when a government tries to censor its opponents, when a government tries to cancel legitimate sessions of government, when a government stifles the will of the people? THAT's undemocratic.

Nick in Gatineau
said

Yesterday the Prime Minister of Canada stood up in the house of commons and called my vote a Seperatist vote.

He also intimated that he does not respect the rights of voters in Quebec who did vote for the Bloc, a known seperatist party - who have not advanced seperatist ideas in several years might I add.

He has made it quite clear that he does not recognize the seats of Quebec. A direct attack against the French.

I did not vote for a Seperatist representative.

It was a violation of my democratic right.

The Prime Minister has no right to place the House of Commons in such disrepute. He has no right to abuse my privilege by trying to dictate the reasoning behind my choice - a clear violation of constitutional law.

I want him to stand up in the House of Commons and apologize to all QUEBECCERS.

I want him to stand up outside the House of Commons and apologize to all QUEBECCERS.

If he does not, let the democratic cards fall where they may but make no bones about it: No Quebeccer will vote Conservative for a long time.

JS Westmount
said

Now that the NDP/Liberal/Bloc/Green coalition has been created, what will stop them from doing this every election cycle they don't win?

Perpetual coalition government?

Why is no-one worried about this?

Anthony Lococo
said

What this country needs at this time is leadership defined as 'elected representatives working together to solve serious problems'. There is no place for the circus act playing out now. None of the options open to the GG are acceptable as long as all the main players remain. The best solution is to replace Messr. Harper and Flaherty and try to make the minority governmaent work..

Northern Ontario
said

Harper called the election because the govt was dysfunctional - now this new govt is more dysfunctional. This crew contains some of the same morons who ripped Ontario apart. Now they are ripping Canada apart. Their main way of dealing with things is nasty one-up-manship. Its disgusting to watch. It makes you ashamed that this is Our Govt. At least with the Coalition we will have some cooperation and stability.

Joe
said

In referance to the statment that Stephen Harper signed a letter to the GG about the Liberal government lead by Paul Martin was not to form a government with a Separatist Party it was to call an election. We as Canadians did NOT vote for a government supported by a party to wants to break up the country that I have defended forthe last 10 years. Canadians give you collective head a shake. This is not right. We did not want Dion as PM. We did elect Stephen Harper as PM with a an opposition. We need a government who will sort out the economic issues that we all face. Having a Liberal-NDP government supported with the BQ is not doing anything for the economy. Political instibilty is a job killer and does nothing for investments national or international. Please stop the Madness and support the elected government this Saturday across the country 12-2.

Dan in Regina
said

While we are out spreading democracy in Afghanistan; our own government can't even follow the process. Something is seriously wrong here! We are spreading lies! Just call an election. Let the people decide! This coalition is a hippie's dream, to those of us who are not high, this coalition is creating a great divide in the country. Who knows, maybe the USA is already planning to invade us; they might come here to spread democracy and bomb the freedom out of us. We do have oil after all. LOL (Ok, not funny but kinda funny)

George in Fredericton
said

To David in Toronto,

Get your facts straight. Martin was brought down and forced to go to the electorate with the conservative NDP and Bloc vote of non confidence.

And that is what should be happening now. NOT form a brand new government at the obvious displeasure of the electorate.

If the liberals and NDP don't like what we have , ASK the people to change it. Not take it on themselves to over ride the will of the people.

J.E. Armour
said

Harper has once again shown that his campaign promises mean nothing once he is elected. If Canada is to survive the immediate crisis we need to control Mr. Harper's somewhat dubious schemes for power.

Moe
said

What crisis? The one being excasperated by the media? Listen, we need to be cautious and wait to see what the elephant down South does when Obama comes in. If we were to throw billions at the auto sector and then the U.S. didn't, wouldn't that be tossing my taxpayer money out the window? If we can manage this with a minimum of deficit, we come out of the on top of the World and a the envy of all other economies. Harper is a bully and he pisses me off with what he just did. However, he is a strong and decisive leader and the only one who can pilot us through these troubled times. When we are back on track and have the luxury of electing a smooth, used car salesman ad P.M. then we can toss him out. Until then......I want the "bully boy" brawling with the World and special interest groups.

Roger T
said

We need CHANGE, the economy is on the brink of collasp and people are losing their jobs left and right.

The recession hasn't taken full effect yet but once it does nothing will stop people from losing their prized possession "thier HOMES".

Buy now, cry later!

Dave
said

Let's go back to the polls. Forget the 37 day minimum or whatever. Lets just call one for next monday and see who gets the majority. Anybody who has been watching knows who they are voting for anyways. Lets just do it again and again until we get something stable.

George
said

In 1925, Governor-General Byng refused Prime Minister King's request for an election after he had lost a vote of non-confidence in a minority situation. The G.G. then handed power over to the leader of the opposition, Arthur Meighen. It is interesting to note that at the next election, King won with a great majority.

Jim in the West
said

If the GG is too fulfill her role properly, she should pull out a copy of Harper's 2004 attempt to pull off a virtually identical coalition, hand it to him, and tell him to go back to work and make peace. Refuse his request to shut down parliment, and force him to work with the Liberals and the NDP to form his own coalition government that truly represents the will and nature of the Canadian people.

Reece
said

It's funny how people think calling for an election is going to change this gov't into a majority. Canada has given this bunch ample opportunity and each and every time Harper failed to convince Canadians to hand him a majority.

In my opinion, a coalition is probably the best thing for Canada - it won't be easy but this is only temporary and the teams will need to work together for a compromise. Wow, a compromise! If Harper would like to join in on the coalition he's more than welcome or he can stand aside as irrelevent.

The problem over the horizon for the conservatives is 2-fold. 1. the liberals will have the winnable leader - no Martin or Dion and after the liberal convention that leader will square off with the conservatives which brings up the 2nd problem: Harper. If Harper can't defeat Martin or Dion to attain a mandate (majority rule), then what will his fortunes be like at the next election?

Conservatives, find another leader if you wish to avoid yet another defeat. We Canadians mostly voted left. We ordered a pallatible dish from the menu, and if it's combo #3 we'll get then so be it. None of us wanted to have cake to start with anyway.

Robson
said

Everybody is acting like children and its embarrassing to this country. I wonder if this coalition gets in and makes the carbon tax law and all the other rubbish that they wanted to do who's going to complain first? I think it's going to be all the people voting for this group. Also we do not need to pump in billions of dollars into the economy it didn't work for the American's or Brits this is world wide let's save our tax dollars folks wake up!! We voted, Harper got in so grow up and stop all the whining.

CAC_Steve Ottawa
said

Harper made a mistake and I hope part of his TV Address includes an admission of this and an apology to the Canadian people.

The opposition parties have done their job and it is my understanding that they have achieved what they ostensibly claimed to want; the cutbacks in party funding and the restrictions on public service labour actions have been withdrawn and an economic stimulus package has been promised for January 27th. So if the opposition parties are truly motivated by serving the best interests of the Canadian people, let the government present it's economic stimulus and see if it addresses the needs of the Canadian people. If it does and it is evident that Harper has learnt from his mistake and is willing to function in a minority government situation, support it. If he is not then defeat it.

The solution is not to form a coalition government which essentially gives the casting vote to a party dedicated to seperating from Canada. I cannot believe that in their heart-of-hearts either the Liberals or the NDP believe this is what the majority of Canadians wanted when they cast their voteS in the last election. Sure from a legalistic standpoint you can do what you are doing, but from an ethical standpoint I think that what is being proposed is highly questionable.

What we needs here is leadership and humility as oppossed to power grabs and egos. So are our politicians up to being true leaders? Mr. Harper are you prepared to apologize to the Canadian people and commit to truely working in a minority government? Messrs Dion and Layton now that you have achieved what were ostensibly were your objections to the economic update are you prepared to work with the structure voted for in the last election?

Allan Kuan, Vancouver, British Columbia
said

I look at the conservative nonsense with disgust. Complete and utter disgust.

In the end, this is legal, the other parties combined have the majority, so let it be. Besides, who's idea was it to launch attack ads yet try to cut other parties' spending? And all in the midst of an economic crisis that deserves immediate attention? Stephen Harper was looking for trouble, and he got it.

carol S Castlegar
said

In October an election was held and the Conservatives given a minority Government. I was one that voted for Mr. Harper and If there is going to be a change of government I believe it should be put to a vote. Do not allow my vote along with many others from different parties to not have meant anything it would be a sad day for democracy. This makes me sick to the stomach. I wish I had the money to fly to these rallies in support of the Government I would be there and am hoping there is one in my riding of British Columbia Southern Interior cause I will be there in full force with my magnetic bumper stickers I went in to get made up today saying "NO COALITION" . I pray for our Country. And may God be with us

M.P.
said

Now you see what happens with low voter turnouts...

As much as I hate to say it we Canadians are as much to blame....If you voted than you have every right to voice your concern....If you didn't than you know what you can do with your opinion!!!!

catsrulz
said

Love the people that say 62% of people voted agains harper since when did we become a 2 party system. If the other 3 parties want to run the country why not merge together and have another election the we wil finaly see what the people of canada want.

Murray
said

What they are planning in this Coalition is a real Dictatorship! Come on, Canadians, that's not our way of Democracy. If the Governement is defeated, then call an election. Who are those clowns to think they have all the answers. And the very thought of encouraging separtists to rule our Country. Shame! Shame! and Double Shame!

brent from saskatchewan
said

wow!!!!!! thats all i got to say this is typical of a sore loser, a government with three parties it will never work who would be the leader jack layton he did say" he will be the next PM" thats a joke , the bloc leader he doesnt care about any thing except quebec, they want to seperate, well i say let them the country is far better off if they did, and the liberals hell that who put us in dept and scandels , if you people are reading this do you all remember about the sponsership scandal yes it was all liberal, harper is the only pm that has lowered dept in these hard times and cared about the country, i sure hope the GGeneral puts a stop to to this type of fighting in government and let harper do his job sore losers thats all it is get with the program , deal with the loss and start working together for the contry not for the sake of lacing your own pockets out of greed

western patriot
said

to the eastern people of canada we say goodbye to you so called eastern canadians...the republic of west can is now a fact...thank you mr dion...

Ted
said

How dare Harper hold Canada hostage to his autocratic aspirations until months after he screwed up royally.

paul
said

Why not a referendum?

David du Feu, Drummond North Elmsley
said

The way I see it is if the Harper Conservatives have lost the confidence of the house and by all accounts it appears they have, then the best of the three options open to the GG is to allow the three opposition parties, who incidentally, had the support of 60% of Canadians, to form the next government. I do not believe proroguing parliament until mid-January 2009 is not in the best interests of the country. It will only hold off the inevitable and will stop the parliamentary process for almost a month needlessly at a time when strong economic action is required by the government.

GaryinWpg
said

What I do not understand is that before the election, the opposition wasn�t willing, didn�t want to, were asleep, or whatever, work with the government, so it was my understanding that Harper called an election.

There the Tories had 125(?) seats, a weak minority, why didn�t the opposition form a coalition? Why wait till now?

In the current situation, all it would take is what ,12?, opposition MP�s (with some intestinal fortitude/sense of honour to country) to abstain or cross the floor, to scuttle the coalition. Before the election it would of taken what, some 30 MP�s ?

This coalition was hatched some time ago, it was just lying in waiting.

As for the coalition to say that the Tories are doing nothing for Canadians in this economic crisis, is a lark. Our largest trading partner is in between administrations and until Obama gets in, and reveals his plans, we just have to wait. For all we know he may be protectionist. Then what? But to spend 30 billion for the sake of spending in order to show Canadians that they, the coalition cares, is basically saying �Give us your money and we�ll make you happy.�

This is a blatant, desperate act of a power grab. There is no other way to put it. They had their chance before the election.

For those who say that the majority didn't vote for Harper seem to not realize that:

1. voter turn out was at it's lowest in the last election, so the phrase "majority of voting Canadians" is a more apt.

2. the majority of voting Canadians didn't vote for Layton, nor for Dion nor for Duceppe either. But since the three did not run as a single party the arguement "the majority of Canadians did not vote for Harper" is rather moot..

Jayne
said

The Governer General's job is to protect Democracy, so she has to do all she can to make sure that if we are to change government in this country, it is done by election. When the dust settles after this, I think that the Liberal party and the NDP party will find that they will be irrepairably damaged. You can't try to ram your ideals down Canadian throats 'for their own good' and still hold your head high as the leader of your party. These partys will have to restructure and find new leaders that Canadian voters can trust and that are willing to work with the Conservatives. I also want to put it out there that our antiquated laws of the political democratic process that has put us in this position should be reviewed and hopefully ammended

Manny, Acton
said

Mr. Harper is twisting reality and trying to convince us that he did not made himself an agreement with the PQ when it was convenient for him, unfortunate the media that is own by the Neo-Conservative are doing all they can to disturb the truth.
The PQ has been a Canadian reality for many years and voted with different parties at any given time, this I must say that the PQ has respected and abide by all Canadians and Parliamentary Laws which I can not say for the Neo-Conservative, they have not created this mess It was Harper and his buddies in unprecedented self-serving mini budget and out of revenge more than anything else. Its time to stand up and respect democracy if we let Harper and Company get away with this then, we will be under Dictatorship. When they already control most of the media and they keep on feeding us with misinformation.

I vote for democracy I vote for the Majority to rule and at this time happen to be the Coalition.
I cannot see how the GG can reject the majority elected parliament from forming a coalition before the Christmas break, It will happen sooner than latter and is better for Canada that is sooner.

Christophen V. R.
said

This is a democracy. You may not like the outcome, but, if the majority of the people don't like the government, then it's time for a change. That's what happens in a democracy. In a dictatorship, the government suspends the rights of the people, appoints its leaders without the consent of the majority, disables the rights of parliament and due process, and allows a small junta to control the rest.
See the difference?

Mario - Rockland
said

Fact - In a minority House of Commons, the government is only there as long as it enjoys the confidence of the House. Once it looses it, it's up to the GG to ask if someone else can do the job. This happens to make sure that all avenues are exhausted before spending another 300 million on an election. This is not an assault on democracy, this IS democracy. If the conservatives had been given a clear mandate, this wouldn't have happened. The media has made this into a crisis, before that, it was simply a vote of confidence. Everything that is being done at the moment had been tried by the Stephen Harper before being PM. Let's all calm down.

Kris in Halifax
said

The Triumvirate Coalition has every right to form a government. The people have voted a minority government in the hopes that everyone would work together in the best interest of Canada, but Stephen Harper (aka Stephen Hubris) does not want to work collaboratively.

Michael Ottawa
said

Waiting for US policy is a rouse. There was plenty of time to prepare for the inevitable recession. That time was spent poking, berating,name calling and finally arrogantly stabbing opponents perceived to be defenseless. There WAS an economic plan and it was to wait for the trusting electorate to exsanguinate to a critically weakened state. That imminent condition would preclude any recovery and consolidate intractable power at a devastating cost. He just couldn't wait and released the hounds to ravage his rivals. BIG MISTAKE! If anyone can explain how this irrefutable history could possibly aid Canadians in this and future times of extreme need, let's here it. The recession deniers are still yapping and now say a woman cannot make a critical decision(I presume that implies voting is not an important decision). All this talk with Mr. Harper a stout Monarchist. Shame-

Eric
said

The DG is in a no-win situation. I think of Danny Williams saying that Harper can't be trusted. Boy has this proven to be true. I have another concern about Harper misrepresenting our political system. He is misrepresenting the rules of our system to confuse the public. Harper as we now know for fact, cannot be trusted.

Sandra in BC
said

As a Liberal I voted for an NDP as I did not want a Conservative. My heart went out to the Green Party and I wanted to give them my vote so they could have my $1.95 share of the political subsidy. In my head after watching the Bloc in the debates I was very impressed with his abilities as a debater. I think I may have unwittingly voted for the coalition.

Susan Bellefeuille
said

What some of the posters don't seem to grasp here, is that there are a few ways that an individual can use their vote. Some of us voted so there would still be a minority conservtive government, which means we have voted for NDP or the Liberals in order to keep a minority Conservative Government. However, this does not mean that we want our vote used in a Coalition Government, so you need to stop assuming that this move is supported by all the voters of the oppostion parties. This coalition government does not have the support of all their voters.

Susan
Ottawa

Vito in Montreal
said

Many on here talk about 62% of voters not voting for Harper to justify a coalition government. If we look at the election results we see that only 60% of voters turned out to actually vote therefore 62% of 60% is still not a majority of voters.

Bottom line is with a 60% voter turnout across the country the 1 clear message is that Canadians have no confidence in any of the leaders/parties.

The U.S. elections had 80% turnout understandably so as history was being made.

I say dump all the leaders and find better options. I cannot believe that there is no one out there who can truly rally the canadian people including the 60% of Quebec voters who do not vote for the Bloc Quebecois.

Happy Holidays all

Ian
said

It truly amazes me how Canadians are re acting to this. Statements made here and at my place of work such as, this is not the way a democracy is to work etc. Well actually this is exactly the way it is to work. If a minority government loses the confidence of the House they go. If the majority of the House, representing the majority of Canadians can come together to form a viable government it is the GG's responsibility to appoint them as the government.

It was alright for Harper to attempt the same thing is 2004 and the masses did not rise up. To me the masses that are rising now are driven on by the Tories. I do hope the party is paying for all the advertising that they are putting forth to defend democracy and not my tax dollars.

Oh by the way if Harper and his Government truly want to defend Canadian democratic principles, please put on a uniform

Bill Rutledge
said

It is sad to see so many who are commenting about this crisis demonstrate a total lack of knowledge about how Canada works. Regardless of your political allegiance a minority is a minority no matter how slim that minority is. To introduce any program that the the majority holders do not like is to invite disaster throught the losing of confidence in the house! Everything else is irrelevant including the screaming the name calling the threat to leave the country from the Albetans who critisize Quebec sepratist as wrong but their sepratist calls are ok. We do not elect leaders on popularity votes or on any other basis but by the number of seats held That's it folks that's all she wrote.

Judy
said

I hope we go to a vote. It might cost us $300 million but the alternative is $50 Billion. Put them back where they belong and lets keep them there this time.

Terry
said

I just want to remind everyone that 62% OF Canadians did vote for this configuration and AGAINST Steven Harper.

I do believe the media needs to be doing more to educate (in a non-partisan way) the Canadians in our parliamentary system. This is not only democratic but is a foundational check in balance in our consitution.

J.C.
said

In addition to my other comment I would like to point out that those who say the majority did not vote for the Cons,that the majority did not elect the Blocs either, so why would we hand them the majority of a coalition government???? They only represent a small amount of the populace.
Oh and for those that may think I am from the west, I am not. I am from Ontario.
Wake up people.

David Thompson
said

David from Hamilton
CANADA GOVERNED BY BLOC SEPERATISTS.
The agreemnent of the 3-Amigos hands over the control of the Canadian Government to the Bloc Seperatists. The have really only agreed to not vote against the government on critical, confidence bills. They can manitain they and in accord with the agreement signed but simply threatenind to abstain from voting or to all acquire the plague so they cannot turn up to vote - this would ensure the failure of the Coalition - back to an election. With this threat available to them they will assure that they get everthing they need irrespactive of its impact on the rest of Canada. So we have Duceppe the puppetier pulling the strings of the two dummies (Dion and Layton- so who really governs Canada, the Separatists of course. Canadiand should be aware of this.

Greg - Oshawa
said

Let's have an election and we the people will decide.

Egons Lasis, Ajax, ON
said

Coalitions are something toyed with by fledgling democracies. Canada's economic position amongst the G20 is a feather in the Tory cap. Yet Socialists always see the world through different glasses. Elected Liberal members of parliament will have to explain dearly to their constituents why that sat on their hands in silence. Nobler men and women would resign en mass to either sit as independents or join the Conservatives.

Jason Regina
said

a coalition is nothing new people!! please see Germany, it has been done in Spain, get over it...Stephen Harper made the worst political blunder in CDN history, and will pay for it..Blame STEVE

Scott Becker
said

If this coalition takes power, Canada will see more than one province attempting to seperate. For too long now, Western Canadians have been not been heard. We finally have a voice and it is taken away (feels like it is being stolen). We tried it the Canadian way; Reform, Alliance, PC-Alliance merger; but to no avail it would seem.

Janet
said

The majority of Canadians did not vote Conservative, I agree. However a vast majority oc Canadians did not vote for the BQ. Rather scary that the BQ will have all the say now.

Hanley
said

The CONS are here again, bright and early with their surly comments.

This current government is not my government. I did not elect it, and would have preferred different results from the last election. Even Harper called this election for change.

This current government does not make any promises in their proposal. In fact, they will be stripping certain targetted areas, specifically women and public servants. Maybe people in these groups don't care, but I am a woman and I do care.

Proroguing government will only give the New Coalition more time to build and firm their plan. I see it as advantageous for them. Nothing will happen in Parliament. though. No real work or decisions wil get done.

Is this really what you elected? A do-nothing group of self serving tools who think nothing of riding around in parades in BMWs?

Jim Dunbar
said

I think one thing the opinion polls have failed to address is the level of knowledge the electorate has of the current situation. Although it is highly anecdotal, nearly everyone I have talked to says they do not understand how this is even possible. You can even see that type of outrage in the replies to this article. It is unfortunate that Canadians do not understand how a parliamentary democracy works.

Less than 60% of eligible voters casted a ballot in the election six weeks ago. Many of those who did not vote felt that their votes would not matter. Maybe this is the wake up call people in Canada need to understand that their votes do matter.

Considering the Angus/Reid poll that came out yesterday shows that over 60% of Canadians do not want Dion as PM, even though there is some support for the coalition, I hope to see people voicing their disapproval of Dion's actions. Although the coalition claims they have the support of over 60% of the nation, those that voted Liberal may not agree with working so closely with the separatist BQ party. Likewise, those that voted NDP because of the carbon tax policy of Dion may not want their party aligned with the Liberals. Many supporters of the BQ would never put their support behind the Liberal party, especially considering adscam. Although this coalition says they have the support of over 60% of the voters, those that voted do not necessarily want their party in a coalition. The right thing to do is go back to the polls, run on a coalition campaign and see what Canadians truly want.

NL in Ontario
said

I hope that Her Excellency will not allow Mr. Harper to disrupt democratic process in Parliament. This will only delay his inevitable defeat in the House.

Conservatives should at least learn the basic Parliamentary Electoral System. This is not something new! We have been practicing this forever. Conservative MP�s do not have the majority of seats in the House of Common. Stop pretending that you do. Your party leader, Mr. Harper does not have the support of majority of MP�s in Parliament. So stop acting like you do. Your mandate was to form a Minority government. You failed. So let other capable men and women do it!

Please stop spreading the hates and the lies. Stop spinning things around! Mr. Harper used this legal tactic against Mr. Paul Martin in 2004. It should be named the Steve Harper's Move! Why it is ok for him to do it and not Mr. Dion? Is it only available for King Harper? This is not Russia. It is called democracy. Lol

I suspect that there are a lot Republicans from our friendly neighbor from the South on this Board. Just read the comments on here! You are welcome on here too! But I have to remind you that we are not Americans. We have universal health care! That�s right! We do not have a Presidential Election System in Canada. You can wait for your turn to vote for Sarah Palin in 2012.

God Bless All!

Emilie
said

For those who are completely opposed to the project :
- for those who say it is anti-democratic : remember that both parties forming the coalition received 44.45% of the vote last election ( 54.43% if you consider the Bloc ) compared to 37.65% for the Conservatives. It's a shame we do not have PR.
- For those supporters of Harper : He is playing a political game. He called for it. He was planning on diminishing other parties' funding. He was indirectly going to run the other parties bankrupt. So, one party still standing : that's a lot more democratic! When you play with fire, you get burnt.
- Support from the Bloc? The Bloc is not only a matter of separatism. As it is, the Bloc is more of a voice representing Quebec. As was the Reform Party ( or Canadian Alliance, new name, practically no changes in platform ) to Western Canada and, if I remember correctly, none other than Stephen Harper was their leader. Quebec separatists are quiet right now : if you really want to get them on the rise again, you're doing a good job by calling Quebec a parasite on Conservative blogs. Way to go.

Lou Ottawa
said

The majority of people may not have voted for the Prime Minister, but that does not mean we want to be ruled by a party that has lost the confidence of Canadians, witness their results in the poles, a socialist party that has no concept of how to govern and a party intent on destroying Canada.
I voted for a Conservative member of Parliament, not a coalition of losers who can only obtain power by highjacking the current Government. Hopefully, the GG does prorogue Parliament or better yet call for an election. If the government is porogued, this so-called coalition will have time to destroy itself. There are members in the coalition who are now having second thoughts about it.

MarcL
said

Saying this our parliment system was never meant to work this way is ignorant.

Our constitution was written to allow the potential of a coalition government to exist. In the event that the house of commons loses faith in the government, and then the Governer General dissolves parliment. However this has happened RIGHT after an election, so the GG might decide that it's too soon for another election.

What people seem to forget is that the Conservatives were elected with a minority, with only 36-37% of the popular vote. While the combined vote of the Liberals, NDP, and Bloc is somewhere in the 60% range. If anything, when these parties come together, they form a higher percentage, which MAY better reflect the views of Canadians.

So this coalition business is not treason, or undemocratic. We didn't vote for Stephen Harper to be PM, we vote for a local representative to sit in the house. Those representatives will NOT change, the only difference will be who proposes the potential bills in the house. Democracy still prevails, since it will still require over 50% of the house to pass legislation.

The only difference is that the Liberals/NDP will get a kick at the can for a while... the Bloc will still vote freely on actual legislation (they're only giving them a free pass on throne speeches and such).

I don't like the proposed ideas this coalition has (even being a liberal supporter), but I absolutely HATE people saying that this is undemocratic/treason. The clause for coalition was put there for a reason (even Harper tried this 4 years ago).

And yes, the Bloc are seperatists, but they were LEGALLY and DEMOCRATICALLY elected by the people of Quebec, and as such, have EVERY right to influence the vote, for better or for worse, so stop your whining!

Bill Becker
said

Outrage at what's going on! I'll tell you what the outrage should be. It should be towards a Prime Minister who thinks he is a gladiator, not the leader of a 21st Century country in crisis. He was handed, not the right to govern as he pleases, by the Canadian people, but to govern with compromise and intelligence. That's what a minority government is supposed to do. He brought this on himself. Not only should the House of Commons have lost confidence, but so should the Canadian electorate. If you have parties who say the will truly put differences aside and govern this country through this crisis, then the constituition we are so proud of, allows them that opportunity.

Andy
said

We Canadians vote to elect Members of Parliament to fill the House of Commons.

We're not in a presidential system where we vote for a representative and a president.

The party with the mosts seats generally forms the government with its leader (that also elected as a member of Parliament representing a certain riding in the country) becomes Prime Minister.

On top of this, for the House of Commons to continue to work it has to have the confidence of a majority of memebers. Now, this does not cause any problems in the case of a majority governement. However, in this case, the minority government has to have the confidence of the House to continue governing.

And it does not!

Therefore, the governement cannot continue going on this way. The Prime Minister generally has to go see the Governor General and ask for the House to be dissolved.

However, elections were held barely 2 months ago, and the majority opposition (that represents 54% of the Canadian population (62% if we include voters who voted for a party not represented in the House)has said that they are ready to put their differences aside for the better interests of this country.

I must remind everyone. Stephen Harper never got a majority governement and decided to act like it thinking the opposition would swallow anything. He only got 38% of the vote, meaning 62% voted against him. Some people are saying that a coalition governement would steal their vote, but, facts verified, not having this coalition governement would be throwing 62% of the population's vote in the garbage after stealing it.

The Conservative Party is the only right-of-center party and its message did not echo through a majority of the Canadian population.

Respect the majority. Majority rules.

Paul
said

People need to stop saying that since this is legal and constitutional, it's democratic.

Stop talking down to us. We know this is within the constitution. What we can't accept is a government entirely beholden to the bloc quebecois, with no mandate from the Canadian people.

The coalition has not received a mandate and has not had its policies approved by the Canadian people. During the election, Dion pledged that there would be no coalition. It is totally undemocratic in spirit.

They must face the Canadian people and receive a mandate from them. Otherwise, even if it's legal, this would be an undemocratic and illegitimate government.

Donald Partridge
said

The GG needs to really consider this; This coalition government apparently has already made an arrangement to allow the Bloc to appoint 6 sparatists to the Senate. How can allowing this coalition, led by a party recieving less than 25% of the popular vote proped up by a separatist party whose reason to be is the break up of the country, to in fact rule the country be in the best interests of the country.

Have we decended to the depths of a third world country?

Edb
said

This is "Animal Farm" people, the pigs are about to steal the farmer's house.
The crown abandoned us long ago, the GG position is a sham.
"we owe allegiance to no crown"
Republic now!

Len from Calgary
said

What you coalition supporters do not seem to understand is that this situation has nothing to do with who's fault this is or do the libs and nds have a constitutional right to do this. What this has everything to do with, is do we really want to give power to a party that wants nothing to do with this country. You would rather have this country broken up instead of having Stephen Harper at the helm? Give your heads a shake!

Goldens
said

As much as I dislike parliament being prorogued until January at this critical time I do agree that the Prime Minister has the right to stand up for Canadian Voters. It concerns me that a opposition coalition headed by a party that thinks of Canadians as beer drinking popcorn eaters is about to take the reigns and do the will of the most intelligent partner in the coalition a person whose goal is to destroy Canada. This is very bad for Canadians and Canada.
John Wilson
Bridgetown NS

Steven C Wick
said

Dear Governor General,

As a citizen, taxpayer, and voter, I think it is a mockery of our Parliamentary system that you would consider a potential coalition of minority parties that include the PQ separatist party. Anything other than calling a new election if a non-confidence vote is passed, sends a message of anarchy to other countries and foreign investors. Indeed, the inclusion of the PQ by the Liberals and NDP of a separatist party in a coalition is treasonous ( "A crime against the government of a country. When citizens of a country try to set up their own government and get rid of the government in power, they are often charged with treason" or "The crime of violence or treachery directed against the Sovereign or the State. Even to plan such a crime is treason. The penalty for treason is death, which used to be inflicted with horrible barbarity. Burning for treason was abolished in 1790; drawing, quartering, and beheading in 1870")

If the Conservative Government loses a confidence vote, I implore you to stand up for democracy and call for a new election

GOD SAVE THE QUEEN

Cory - Toronto
said

All you people saying that it's completely legal to have a coalition, and are flying that flag so high better realize.

It is also just as legal and in the Constitution to prorogue. There is a complete discretion of the PM, and the GG must go along with it. No complaining now! Look it up!

Caroline Novak
said

Stephen Harper and his tactics are an embarassment to all Canadians. In times of economic turmoil we need a leader or in this case group of leaders who will represent the opinions of all Canadians... not just those out West. It is sad in a way that it had to come to this however I am positive that with a coalition we will finally begin to move forward.

Bill in Nanaimo
said

The Conservative communication plan is benefiting from a beautiful mix of the ill informed sharing their misunderstandings and the �on-side� carrying the their crafted key messages.
Contrary to much of what we�re hearing, this IS a legitimate part of our parliamentary democracy and it was intended to be this way. A party must have the confidence of the house to govern. If you can't win a majority in an election then you have to work with the other parties. Either you get support �motion to motion� or you form a coalition.
If there is no group that can secure the confidence of the house (i.e. include or be backed by a majority and can govern) then government will be dissolved and an election will be called. If there is a group willing and able to take over with such a majority then they will form government.

Ray from the East
said

Can people calm down a bit. and cut through the double speak please. Every member of Parliment won their seat in the same manner, regardless of party or position. The same person you voted for still represents you. If the Bloc hold the balance of power for the Coalition, they also hold it now. They have the seats needed for Majority to pass law regardless of who forms the Government.

Nick T, Ottawa
said

A lot of people say "Only a third of Canadians voted for Harper, so the coalition is better."

Hate to tell you this, even LESS people voted for Dion, and even LESS THAN THAT voted for Layton. The two parties combined have LESS seats than the conservatives do, so how does this coalition make sense? You still have fewer people represented.

Call an election! Get us to the polls again and let Canadians speak once again for what WE want! And to my fellow Canadians: GET OUT AND VOTE!

PS - I left the bloc out of this, since they are a self-serving seperatist movement that in the end has no real interest in helping the country.

Tom Hawley
said

First of I am no political expert.I do try and follow what is going on within my country and around the world.
No, I do not believe Harper is the reason for the global crisis we find ourselves in.At this point I do not know if Dion is the right person to lead our country.
As for people worried about the Bloc ,I say take a deep breath.Gilles Duceppe is a very effective leader.He does what is in the best interest of Quebec.Yet he knows he needs to work with all of Canada.Good for him.I am of the thinking as we all do at times say one thing to achieve another.I am guessing he does not want to leave Canada any more than I do.
Back to the coalition.
Why not give support to this?Harper tried to sufficate the other parties through a political ploy.Nothing more nothing less.During the election he lead/wanted Canadians to believe that we were in better shape financially than we are.Harper in doing so accused other parties of fear mongering the electorate.
So I ask ,who was closer to the truth about Canada's situation?If Harper did not know,that is reason to be nervous.
We just had an election to the tune of $300 plus million.An election that Harper was trying to be advantageous .Yes ,this has been done in the past.This election also called by Harper himself.The opposition did not bring him down.
He had the support albeit shaky.This time he does not.But he wants to retain power.I am confused.
The GG has some options before her.I am hoping she gives the coalition the opportunity to govern.
It will be of one of two things.
When the 18 months or longer comes and goes we the electorate will decide if this was a good move for our country or if it was bad.
Just because most of us never seen a coalition does not make it wrong or undemocratic.
Relax we will be fine.
After all it is Canada.

Gene in Montreal
said

Give democracy a chance. In in our case, it's called parliamentary democracy.

And to reiterate a point that's been made here more than once: more people of Canada are represented by the members of the coalition than by Mr. Harper and his party.

I fully support the Coalition.

Shawn in Halifax
said

We DON'T elect Prime Ministers in this country!

I didn't see any of the leaders on my ballot, therefore I voted for the MP I thought would best represent my constituency. This is not the United States and we elect parliaments here and the coalition is well within their rights to remove Harper from office, as he has lost the confidence of the House of Commons. So to call this "undemocratic" is a lie. In fact, I find this coalition move to be profoundly democratic and should move forward on Monday December 8th.

Carolin in Ontario
said

Will spending millions on another election help with the current economic situation? Not likely.
There needs to be some better control over spending by the government. There's alot of things they wouldn't get away with (spending) if they worked somewhere else.

Eric
said

I think people need to read about the fundamentals about how parliamentary democracy works. We the people vote elect a parliament, who then appoints a Prime Minister and Cabinet to govern. WE DON'T ELECT THE PM!!! So all this talk about this coalition being undemocratic is purely uneducated nonesense or blatent propoganda...which in itself is undemocratic!!! If you want to make a big statement, urge Quebecers to stop voting for the Bloc and lets have a real NATIONAL election.

Roger in St. John's
said

Considering what has gone on so far, I don't see any of the parties letting up.....they would all lose face. As much as I roll my eyes at it, let's have another election as quickly as logistically possible and sort this out. Heck of a time of year for it too!

CLB , ottawa
said

I am sad that it has come to this in this great Country of ours. then again a house divided cannot stand. if Steven Harper and his government are thrown out, the parties that signed that coalition will soon be at each others throats and the battle will continue. What an embarrassment for the Canadian population. What will the rest of the world think of us.

Gord
said

I think once this is all over we should re think the position of authority the GG is in. An unelected official with no political experience should not be a final authority over constitutional matters involving elected officials elected to govern us. Moreover perhaps its time to only have two political parties to avoid all this. At present it just seems unusual minority parties can join together and gang up on the governing power like this and create all this confusion.This gang of three are doing nothing more than shacking up temporarily to defeat Harper with little in common. It won't last. Canada has serious economy matters to deal with without all this distraction.

Joe from Halifax
said

In response to those that fear the Bloc Quebecois and the implied additional power they will be able to exert in a Coalition government...

The current Conservative Government is 11 seats shy of a majority, and have often curried the favour of the BQ to pass their legislation. In fact in the recent past they have proposed an alliance of their own with the BQ.

Also in the past, haven't the Progressive Conservatives and the Reform Party formed a coalition and an eventual merger into the Conservative Party?

The arguments of the pro-Harper faction are baseless. Our current Parliament consists of a majority of duly elected Members opposed to the minority government. There is no need for another election - the results are in, and the majority of Canadians - exemplified by electing non-Conservative MP's - do not support the minority government.

Jon in London
said

The coalition leads with Dion until May, (5 months), then the new Liberal leader steps in, and will not call an election for at least 30 months.

Therefore you will have an UNELECTED coalition running this country for 3 years!

Believe that they will keep this running for that long. They will.

See you at the polls in 2012!

Neil
said

In response to those who say "too bad, the majority of Canadians didn't vote for you Harper" I say this: An larger majority of Canadians didn't vote for Dion and his Liberals. This coalition may be democratic, but it's certainly not moral.

Keep It Real
said

Harper proposed a coalition in 04 when he was the leader of the opposition. The shoe is on the other foot and he doesn't like it. He is spinning lies to the uniformed. He knows a coalition in our parliamentary system IS legitimate. We did not elect a PM, we elected MP's, and the opposition has more MP's collectively. The conservative hysteria is unbelieveable.

Jake Smith
said

This is an Eastern Coalition that intends to seize power and force the country to borrow $30 billion which they intend to pour into Quebec and Ontario. Then they'll impose a carbon regimen that will kill the oil industry in the West and shift the economic strength back to the East. If they are successful - then I say that the West should separate from Canada.

Sherry
said

Dion said "the Tories were in a holding pattern and simply prolonging their eventual defeat." ... okay .. let me get this straight .. you are the one that lost the election and practically everybody hates you Dion .. you are the one that cannot accept defeat so don't go mouthing off telling the Tories they are defeated .. they won the election fair and square ... you have no idea how peeved off the country is right now against you.

Tom from Ottawa
said

John....I would suggest that the problem is not that the majority of Canadians didn't vote for Harper. The majority of Canadians didn't vote period.

Chretien had small voter percentages and he had majority governments.

There is no way, I want this coalition throwing away billions of tax dollars. They do not have a plan other than to write cheques. That achieves nothing.

I would rather have another election or prorogue Parliament. This "coalition" is nothing but a soon to be disaster from start to finish.

Christa Chivers
said

I am so disgusted and disturbed by what is happening in our parliament. We the voters, decided (good or bad) which party and person we wanted to govern our country. Now our vote means nothing any more. That does not sound democratic to me. I think the politicians have forgotten who they work for ...the people of Canada, we are their employers, it is our money and our right to elect who we decide and that vote should be honoured. This is a power hungry struggle on behalf of the opposition, they are "three pigs at the trough". What amazes me is that the "bloc" who's agenda is to separate from Canada wants to be part of governing our country and THAT THEY RECIEVE GOVERNMENT MONEYS!! Have we become numb and stupid?? What an outrage!! What an irresponsible move on their part when the world is in a financial crisis. They have now created a worst financial situation for Canadians. This alone tells me they do not have our best interests in mind. Now our countries future is to be decided by the governor general who has limited political experience. We as Canadian should have the right to decide who governs, if they will not honour our vote. This is an outrage and insult to all Canadians.

Stephen
said

I have been watching this unfold and I am speechless. Stephen Harper hasn't even tabled his budget and the opposition is trying to bring him down based on that.

If they get their coalition to form and get Ms. Jean to support it I will be looking for a revolution. I am fed up. We just had an election and the Conservatives where elected - fair and square -. The Liberals lost and so did the NDP. I don't know why the Bloc is allowed to participate but they do.

This is a sad time to be Canadian. Staphane Dion and Jack Layton, you have made me feel sad about our future again.

KJ in Kingston Ontario
said

It gives one a much better appreciation of the game of politics. The hunger for power -- okay, I know -- it's mainly the hunger for MONEY. You don't have to be very insightful to see money is at the heart and soul of this conflict. We might fancy ourselves as beyond the age-old realities of revolution, turmoil and civil unrest -- but that's while the system keeps humming along in high gear. When there are major setbacks and stress it can fall apart rather quickly -- just like the coalition likely will when the CAW demands billions of BC, NL and mainly Alberta tax dollars go into the falling Ontario auto sector. Let's not forget the English-French potential friction underlying this -- the political preferrences are completely at odds. I expect 20 years of work towards national unity could vanish more quickly than value of our RRSP just did over the last quarter.

Darrell
said

John, when was the last time a prime minister received the majority of the votes? The Liberals ran three majorities with less than that due to the fact that the conservative vote was split. And now we have five major parties, do the math.

James-Eh!
said

Andre, the only place Stephen Harper was elected was Calgary-South. We do not elect a government, nor do we elect a PM.

This is exactly the way the Westmintsr form of democracy works. Its designed so we don't have to go the polls ever 2 months because a minority government won't co-operate with the opposition.

Joseph
said

If these are the kind of policies that Steve wants to impliment with a minority government, could you IMAGINE what he would do with a majority?

Vaino Lund
said

The 27th Governor General, the Marquess of Lorne famously said G.G.'s must be;

""A representative of all that is august, stable, and sedate in the country; incapable of partisanship, and lifted far above the atmosphere of fraction, without adherents to reward or opponents to oust from office; docile to the suggestions of his Ministers, and yet securing to the people the certainty of being able to get rid of an Administration of Parliament the moment either has forfeited their confidence."

that says it all: Harper has lost the confidence, the choice is clear.

MW in Thunder Bay
said

Well, having grown up in Germany, I'm no stranger to political coalitions and think that they can be productive. However, when German political parties go to the polls, it is with open cards where voters know which parties will support each other.

I have several problems with the NDP/Liberal/Bloc coalition. First, when the NDP hinted at wanting a coalition with the Liberals during the election, the Liberals flatly refused and stated that they would not enter a coalition with the NDP. Also, neither the NDP nor the Liberals ran on a platform of handing over significant government powers to Quebec sovereigntists. Had Jack Layton and Stephane Dion proposed this, I think they would have been severely punished at the polls.

While it's true that a majority of Canadians did not vote Conservative, it's also true that Canadians did elect a minority Conservative government and did hand Stephen Harper a stronger mandate than in the previous election. Also, most majority governments in Canada's history were elected with a minority of the popular vote.

There is nothing technically illegal about this coalition. However, I think it is disgraceful, unpatriotic, reckless, shameful and borderline evil of Jack Layton and Stephane Dion to have the country essentially be governed by people who want to destroy it.

Every opinion poll I saw or heard about today was soundly (at least 2/3 to 1/3) opposed to the coalition. I think that if Layton and Dion really think that Canadians want sovereigntists in government and a minimum $30 billion annual deficit, then they should allow Canadians to actually vote on that platform.

Also, Dion now wants to appoint Elizabeth May to the Senate. Tell me that doesn't stink to high heaven!

There is no denying that business in Canada has slowed down, due to global (not homemade) problems. But if southern Ontario and parts of Quebec are taken out of the equation, the country is far from a recession. Do we really need $30 billion in new annual debt as a "stimulus"? Harper has already fast tracked $50 billion in infrastructure money which had been set aside and does not need to be borrowed. Let's have that money put to work, along with further tax cuts.

I've also already written to Michael Jean about this. Unfortunately, I think she'll allow this coalition to go ahead, rather than calling an election. After all, she was appointed by a Liberal PM and is married to a former FLQ member. Enough said?

Darrell
said

The opposition wants stimulus!? Well, lets start with a 300 million dollar election! That should get things started quite nicely.

Al
said

What a mess......
Our GG should summon our PM Harper to a meeting and prorgue parliment on the condition Harper resigns as leader, the Conservative caucus appoint a temp leader and come back in Jan. with a medium stimulus budget all parties can afford and support. If defeated then call another election after a cooling down for everyone.

Our GG cannot grant the BQ seperatist party control of the goverment body as it would contradict her role as GG. BQ is a seperatist party against Canadian interest right!

Shame on Mr. Harper for getting Canada into this mess and who has to go! The solution is not to give Canada's leadership to the BQ seperatists as we would then by default join the seperatist party

T Sanders
said

Call an election. Let the people decide, not lying parties who are greedy for personal gain.

Remember, this coalition "claims" they have lost confidence because there's no stimulus package. What a joke. Nobody's buying that lie. This was planned even before the last election. It's pure greed for power, nothing more.

Jon in London
said

When this thing broke, and until today, the almost 90% of the comments were against the coalition.

Today I look at the pools and they say that 40% favour the coalition.

Let the media work it for a while and I bet by next Monday the polls will say 70% of Canada is in favour of the coalition.

Anyone willing to comment?

James from NB
said

I hope she makes the right decision and does not let this coalition go through!

Ann, Whitby
said

We hope that the General Governor stops this takeover by three arrogant, disgruntled losers and at the very least calls a new election. It is worth the money not to lose the confidence of Canadian voters, many of whom will likely never bother voting again if the coalition just pushes themselves into power. And, really, who would blame them? Mr. Harper has been the first Prime Minister for years who never had a big, shameful scandal yapping at his heels like the Liberal Party for instance. Corruption is their middle name. Bob Rae, now there's a name Ontarians won't forget. As for Mr.Duceppe, well, that speaks for itself. Your Excellency, please restore the voters' trust in the Canadian Electoral System and call an election - more than the economy is riding on this decision.

Denis T.
said

Mr. Dion states forcefully during question period that the government has lost the confidence of the the house, and I'm not sure that this is an issue of confidence rather than one of political opportunity. It is the confidence of the people that should considered important,paticularly in this time of economic crisis, and the Liberals and NDP don't get it. Dion is the Liberal fall guy in case this backfires, and seriously lacks the support of most Canadians. The Bloc however is not waivering from their game plan; a sovereign Quebec.

Dave
said

With the amount of seats that Dion lost, the fact that the BLOC is only in it to further their seperatist movement (so Duceppe said out loud on the news last night), and Layton got LESS THAN 80% of the vote, none of these guys should legally be running the country. And then we have Elizabeth May who didn't even win her OWN riding and is now going to be in the Senate???!!!??? What is going on?? Can I be in the Senate too if I can be bought off somehow too?

Pete / Ottawa
said

If only our supposed leaders would put as much energy in helping out us average Canadians, as they do trying to hang on to their roles of power...

Sam Ottawa
said

And the majority of Canadians did not vote for Steve Haper either!

Middilay
said

This is really simple. I don't understand while all the comments on these stories for the last week don't get it. This isn't Stephane Dion on some power trip. He will be replaced in May. What this really is is Stephen Harper trying to bully his way through things with a smug confidence that he was given a majority mandate by Canadians. Sorry, you were not! Obviously many respondents here don't remember there basic Canadian Education about how the Parliamentary system works. This is exactly the way it is supposed to work. Harper supporters out there get it through your heads... HE DIDN'T WIN BEING PM!! His party was elected with more seats than any other part individually. When you combine seats from the other three they are the truly elected leader. If they can come to a consensus of who should lead than they have the confidence of the majority of the house. One very important thing to remember about our current state of affairs is that the PC party is not the Mulroney Progressive Conservatives. These are the REFORM PARTY rebranded. They formed a coalition years ago when both their parties where demolished by the Canadian people. Canadians simply won't give the Reform party a Majority. This will weed out the current leaders for what they are and hopefully we will see brighter days in our leadership soon. Harper's demise can't come soon enough!

James
said

This is just hilarious to me.

Harper attempted to do the exact same thing to bring Paul Martin and his liberal government down when they first took power.

Harper and the conservatives complain and try to act innnocent when the other opposition parties attempt to do something they don't like.. Isn't that calling the kettle black?

Now they wanted to cut the money to parties to save the TAXPAYERS money, yet they're launching ATTACK ADS.. where does that money come from? Aren't we the taxpayers paying for these ads? Again to me that contradicts them trying to save us money.

If our voting process was set up the way the American system was, HARPER would NOT be in power right now

I'm not a fan of Stephane Dion at all but I wish him the best of luck.

Anyone is BETTER than Harper!

Wanda in Sudbury
said

The majority of Canadians didn't vote for the Liberals either, or the NDP, or the Bloc. Of course if you start putting parties together to increase their numbers it seems as though it's more of what we as Canadians want but truly, if any of those parties individually are what we wanted for PM then that's the way we would have VOTED less than 2 months ago. In fact, Dion is the least popular Liberal ever and lost seats so shouldn't be PM, Duceppe doesn't even want to be part of Canada so he can't be our PM, and over 80% of people DIDN'T vote for Layton for PM. Those are not good numbers at all and Mr.Harper's numbers are better than that. That's why he should remain PM and call an election. I'd rather see $300 million spent on another election to get rid of the coalition then $100 billion thown everywhere that we all have to pay back with tax hikes.

Rob Helwig London
said

I want out. It is time for Canada to send Quebec adrift.Jack Layton has sown the seeds of discontent among us hard working individuals who normally sit on the sidelines. This alliance he is creating with the impotent leader of the Liberals and the seperatists has angered me so much that I will no longer sit on the sidelines. Mr. Layton you have created a political enemy out of an average citizen who used to be amused by politicians. itha

Brian Appel
said

At a time when the world is witnessing an economic crisis of unparallelled proportions, Prime Minister Stephen Harper�s government has demonstrated it has no plan, no competence and no will to effectively address this crisis. Instead of taking action to stimulate the economy and to create jobs, the Conservatives chose to use last week�s economic and fiscal update as a means to make ideological cuts and to put partisan politics ahead of the best interests of Canadians.

Their unwillingness and inability to address the crisis has culminated in the opposition parties� decision to form a coalition government and, with over 62% of the Canadian peoples' vote behind them, they represent the democratic will of this country. They chose to put partisan politics aside and work with the other parties to create a plan that will put our economy and Canadians first.

Canadians don�t want another election and this Coalition for Change is ready and united in its efforts to put the interests of Canadians first, and will work toward the introduction of the economic plan that Canada needs.

Dennis Cockerill
said

I personally feel that if Stephen Harper wanted to steer the country in the right direction during this economic crisis, he would work diligently with the opposition to see this come to a resolve. He has failed to do so and I think it is because Mr. Harper has adapted to the George Bush bullying mentality and you see how that has ended. I think our country deserves a real change as in the US but appose Mr. Stephen Dion taking the reigns, he can�t pass his own parties confidence vote let alone the countries.

James-Eh!
said

Maritimer, everybody voted for this configuration because most don't understand how our political democracy works.

You vote for an MP, that's it. As a by-product, if a party gets a majority MPs, the government is obvious and that has been the norm.

Now we're finding out what happens in a minoriity situation. And its not what you expected! The party with most seats has to have the confidence of the house. If it doesn't, the other parties can get together, form a coalition and form government. Its all down to having the support of 50%+1 of the MPs.

SteveR
said

Call an election to settle this. Send the bill to the three coalition parties.

J Spratt
said

Why is Harper doing Attack Ads?

Why doesn't he work with the other political parties to get a compromise.

Oh ya his ol'reform roots are showing in his bitter partisan attacks on the opposition.

Bye Bye Steve-o

Majority rules

Peter in Speers, Saskatchewan
said

Yup, if the coalition thinks it's stable enough to run the country, it should be stable enough to run an election campaign. Bring it on!
And hey, a $300 million stimulus (much of which goes to ordinary Canadians who sit at the polls on election day) is far better than a $30 billion gift to the large corporations and unions.

Karl from GTA
said

Harper has made his bed, let him lie in it! He cannot govern as if he had a majority. That ploy hasn't worked in the past (ask Joe Clark) and won't work now.

If he wants to remain PM, he had better try to work with the Loyal Opposition instead of trying to antagonize them.

For all those CONS who have been flooding these public forums, remember that Steve also tried to form a coalition with the NDB and Bloc 4 years ago against Paul Martin's minority government. So you can put a halt to your comments of the current coalition "grabbing power" from the current government.

Wayne
said

I personally am glad that we have a position above the PM whose main job is to make sure that the PM plays by the rules. She doesn't have a say in policy, she's more of a referee.

If Stephen Harper has any leadership left in him, he will bring his party to the House on Dec 8 and let the House determine his fate. To run from it by proroguing Parliament shows a trait that, I feel, is the opposite of leadership.

The coalition then has every right to form the government and opperate as a properly elected Government of Canada - regardless of what the Conservative attack ads are saying.

I voted Conservative for the last 20 years, so this is not sour grapes on my part. The PM's childish actions in these past few day have shown me his true colours and that he is unfit to lead this great country.

David in Toronto
said

Hard to understand how Harper can complain about his current situation. He signed a similar letter to then then GG, along with Layton and Duceppe, advising that they could take over if the Martin minority failed. The only difference would be that the NDP would not have been in cabinet, but they would still have needed Bloc support to remain in office. Guess its another case of Stevie making up the rules as he goes along. I think its time for him to take his ball and go back to Alberta.

johnny voter
said

As to the anger in the above comments. This is exactly how a parliamentary system works. Those of you who do not like it should consider moving south to the US where you can vote for an individual instead of a party as we do. Harper has brought this onto himself and he should have to face the consequences. Confidence has been lost in the government and the situation is progressing as it should according to our constitution law.

Michael in Ottawa
said

For those who want to bash the Governor General, please knock it off. This is the system of government we live in and you would be better advised to go and understand the constitution and her role under it, instead of asking charged questions about what "right" she has in this situation.

I agree that she is perhaps not the ideal Governor General for a situation like this, but the office is always greater than the person in it.

What is disturbing to me now is the scorched earth policy people on both sides of this issue are employing, effectively undercutting all the institutions of Government.

In the case of the Governor General, she is in a lose-lose situation. If she prorogues or dissolves Parliament as is her constitutional right in a situation like this, everyone supporting the coalition will undermine the Office of the Governor General. If she doesn't do as the PM ask her, as is again her right under the constitution in situations like this, the Conservatives will let loose on her like rabid dogs on a bone.

This is an awful situation and the only people to blame are the politicians -- not the Governor General. Although she will probably be a convenient scapegoat for many of them and their followers

Steve B.
said

Over 60% of the voters did not vote for the Conversatives. So why are people saying that they should be the governing body by the will of the people? The GG had granted Harper's wish of an early election despite what the law says. He did not get a majority. Is Harper keep on calling elections until he gets one? Why should the GG be controlled by Harper?

Jim Nicholson
said

I believe that in the situation Canadians now find them selves in, should be a huge wake-up, as too why it is important to vote. With that said I think an election should be called as we just finished having one, therefore there will be no need to campaingn, each party could just give a outline of the way they are going to make changes in thier policies (about one week of time needed) Elections Canada could then try and recallall the past help and set up a snap election with little effort and hopefully Canadians will get out and vote this time.

J L C Halifax
said

Fellow Canadians, I submit that these Conservatives have not done enough to protect Canadian Jobs or the economy at large.

Remember what we have here: An ideological right wing government that believes only in free market forces. -Crown Corporations privatized, Decentralization and subsequent weakening of the Federal Government, Ignorance and/or disregard of the Environment, and movement towards more undesirable elements of Free Trade, SPP, NAU and globalization that will hurt our way of life.

The Coalition is certainly an unusual entity; and ten years ago even such a concept would have been absolutely unimaginable.

BOTTOM LINE: These are unusual times. We need a government more in touch with the reality on the ground. I'm not scared of giving the coalition 18 months to try to keep the economy moving, and to address those things on the National Agenda that the Conservatives simply are not. Period.

I am not employed, nor affiliated with any political party. I'm a Carpenter who supports more spending on infrastructure, and a common sense restructuring of our financial system.

JJ in Ottawa
said

ABC!

THE LAST ELECTION did not elect Harper as PM. If that is what you believe, then re-read the constitution. This "configuration" as maritimer has called it is exactly what Canada voted for. By not providing a majority to any parties who ran the last election, the Canadian people asked for what can be defined as a responsible minority government.

since the word responsible is not in Harper's dictionary, you have the results that we, as Canadian voters, have made possible via our ballots last election.

So, Harper did not play well in the sandbox and get booted out of the box by the other kids. You dare say that is not Canadian?

Harper can to play in Crawford Tx. where Dubia Bush will be spending a lot of time now....and Canada will get along just fine.

May you live in interesting times....say the chinease....

Matt
said

I'm updating my Christmas list this year.
I did want a Conservative minority government, and I like many others were happy to see that result.

Now we see what that means, I've changed my mind and want a Conservative majority.

Of all the issue they had, many more important, in the last government when the "coalition" would have had more seats they didn't do this.
Now they threaten to stop handouts, and they're ready to try this crazy plan?

That's just not right.

Sylvain
said

For people that say the Canadiand did not vote for this well check the election result and yes coalition are part of Politics if politician would start working FOR THE GOOD OF THE COUNTRY an TOGETHER AS A TEAM then we would not be in that situation Other country have coalition and it does work it is just that we have never seen it here well as much as they made history in the US election we in Canada will make history here. No matter who is there they should work as a team.

Steve
said

People are saying this coalition was not elected. The coalition would represent more of Canada than the Conservatives currently do. This government would represent the MAJORITY of Canadians. When you only win a minority in the election, this is one of the risks that can happen if you lose a confidence vote. The options are another election, OR the other parties are asked if they can form a government. In this case, we've had the first option, it didn't work, so let's try the second option. At least in the case of the second option parties will actually work together, not just one party (whether the Conservatives or the Liberals) will be able to just drive their agenda through like normally happens.

Paul
said

This is a disgusting an undemocratic attempt to seize power without the consent of voters. Stephane Dion pledged not to form a coalition with Layton, and he's broken his word.

This coalition must seek a mandate from the Canadian people, and have its platform approved by them. The coalition and its policies were not presented to Canadians during the election, and will have no legitimacy until this is done.

Rob
said

The ecomony is falling apart people are being laid off, yet all the Tories do is run ads, great, maybe they should try to meet the opposition parties and start to rule as a real minority gov't, and stop the political games, Harper has been the worst thing to happen to Canada as Bush was to the US, go coalition go, if it means he is gone. The Tories should have a hard look, he will not win you the cup, lame duck and mean sprited, he must go...

bgsig from SE Ontario
said

True, the majority of Canadians didn't vote Conservative... but a larger majority didn't vote for the Libs - an even larger majority didn't vote NDP... and as far as I know, nobody voted for a coalition party to form the government. If we are talking about bringing in non-elected bodies to form the government, does that mean that the Greens can get back in the picture?

Darlene in Halifax
said

The majority of Canadians may not have voted Conservative or for Stephen Harper, but the VAST majority of Canadians did not vote for Stephane Dion or Jack Layton either.

sable
said

Don't people understand our parliamentary system? We elect 308 MPs and the leader of the party most likely to gain majority support of those 308 MPs becomes Prime Minister. Harper failed to gain that support. If someone else can, then THAT PERSON is who Canadians elected to be Prime Minister. Whoever the majority of the 308 MPs have confidence in, is what Canadians elected. It is Harper who is not willing to abide by the result of the election. To abide by the result, and be PM, he must gain confidence OUTSIDE his party. He is not willing to do that, so he has to go.

Ping Low
said

Naturally a "prorogue" which is basically an unauthorized job action (against the Crown) means that MP's won't be getting any pay for those non-working days right?
The three cronies are an embarassment to this country and it just shows how low a politician will go in selling their soul to the separatists in order to usurp power from the obviously moronic autocratic behavior of Harper who en-acted new and controversial policy like he had a majority. Et tu Stephen. All the leaders should resign and let's get a clean slate of politicians who want to help Canadians during this time of economic crisis rather than themselves. Shame on you all.

Ping
Ottawa

Ron from NS
said

For those posters who state that this is undemocratic, that this is like a third world country, that no one voted for this, they need to go back to school and learn about Canada's Parliamentary system. These are the rules and no one is doing anything that is against those rules.

If you want someone to blame, blame Harper for focusing on destroying the opposition parties and not building this country called Canada. Harper was elected saying that he would change the tone in the house of commons. The problem is that no one thought he would try to make it worse. His actions are that of a leader of a third world country. He is trying to take majority power of Canada by using every means of destroying the opposition. Does he not believe that he should focus on policies that Canadians want that would get him his majority instead of attacking the opposition by partisan means?

Harper needs to go as this is situation is entirely on his shoulders.

dave
said

People have spoken and we have a good conservative government.Let them govern Jean. If the three losers get there way ,the West is gone. Please Jean, don't let thies corrupt politions break up my country.

Mike
said

Here's a thought... Maybe she'll send them all to their room. Without dinner. Behave like children, be treated as such.

Allan
said

Tory attack ads just prove that this government has nothing positive to offer the people of Canada.

Maya Angelou has said when someone shows you who they are, believe them.

Harper has shown himself more interested in crushing people and clinging to power. Whatever I thought of him before I cannot support his mean-spirited, spiteful actions. He is supposed to the Prime Minister of all Canadians, but has shown himself to be interested in only a few. And those don't include civil servants, women or anyone who might question his actions.

It is time to remember that he represents a MINORITY of voters. Time to let those who represent the MAJORITY take the lead. The Tories have shown no leadership. They are a major disappointment.

Mikel in CKE
said

My understanding is that the GG has a key mandate of protecting the countries unity. If she allows a know sepratist group to goveren the country then she breaks this key responsibility. BTW she is appointed by the PM, who can call the Queen and ask for her removal due to her past and the FLQ. As the GG is a figure head the Queen would almost 100% agree with the PM.

Amanda, Kingston ON
said

Lets see, record low voting on election day in Canada. I wonder why that is?I say no one will be voting in the next election due to this nonsense, why vote when the losing Parties can join together and possibly take over Parlament. Lets just waste Canadians taxes and who cares about what Canadians want and think.

John R - Ontario
said

Time for another election I guess, better 300 million than 30 billion.
A coalition of national parties is one thing, a coalition where the balance of power resides with a party with the interest of one province only is a BIG problem.

Doug
said

Harper speaks of a power grab. What was his move to gut the opposition funding all about then? Certainly not a move to build trust. He blew it and these are the consequences. He will try to take his ball and go home but his days are limited now.

Cliff Scott
said

I'm intrigued with how the Angus Reid polling group came up with their figures which shows a majority in favour of this Coalition. Everything I've seen on internet sites indicates at least 60%(often more) opposed to teh coalition idea. It seems our "elite" groups have no idea of the opposition to this idea in the country.

Blake
said

Imagine this:
You're the Prime Minister.
You goof up so bad you have to drum up armies of protestors to advertise blind support for your plot to circumvent the rules of parliament.

Remember: You're the sitting Prime Minister while all of this is going on. How ridiculous is that?

Why couldn't he just be reasonable?

Alan Stanley
said

The Conservatives know nothing but spin, spin, spin. The notion that a coalition is undemocratic is absurd. They may not like it (and who hasn't been disappointed with some election results), however from a purely democratic perspective, a coalition represents far more voters than a Conservative minority.

John
said

The majority of Canadians didn't vote for ya Steve. Tough luck.

Andre
said

One would hope that the unelected GG will see the perils of asking a non-elected PM to form a new government. There is no way parliamentary democracy was meant to work that way!

vince in trenton
said

...and they wonder why NO one trusts them anymore. We, the voters decided who should govern this once great country and now the power hungry have taken what we said and made a mockery of that once again. If those on the hill don't agree with the PM then we should go to the polls once again but power should not be handed to anyone in this treasonous way. We all know that the figure head who was put in place by the Liberals will side with them and then once more we CANADIANS will be the laughing stock of the world. Just when I was starting to be proud of CANADA again the politicians do something to set it back to square one...

Paul in SJ
said

I am hoping the her excellency has the wisdom to realize that it is not in the country's best interests to be governed by a coalition that is dependant upon a party who even now is talking about how this will advance the cause of seperatism.

I find it truly disturbing that our national government would be held hostage by the Bloc. By giving them a veto, that is exactly what Dion and Layton are doing.

Are the conservatives blameless? No.I think they have severely mis-managed this crisis. At the same time I do not see the need for an immediate stimulus package. We should wait and coordinate efforts to stabalize North American markets with the new Obama administration in January.

Here is hoping that common sense helps guide the GG's actionsin the days ahead.

Maritimer
said

Call an election. Nobody voted for this configuration.

Jeff From the Stock
said

forgive me but I dont get this..how can a women with limited political experience be put in the position to come back from her 13th oversea's vacation ( Offical Tour ) to decide the future of our Country's Polical picture??

Steven Harper shouldnt even be in a situation where he can win the job of Prime Minister and weeks later the group of losers can overtake that position??

What country do we live in?? this sounds more and more like Third World country..

Perhaps after this foolish move on the part of the Coalition our economy will react to this and sooner than later we will be a third world country..

Way to go Gilles, Stephane and Jack...you all should be very ashamed of yourselves..

CTV.ca Special

Coalition FAQ

Changing governments without an election. Can they do this?

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Stephen Harper's address

Watch Stephen Harper's address to the Canadian people and reaction from analysts and pollsters.

Mike Duffy Live - Wednesday, Dec. 3

With Governor General Michaelle Jean back in Canada, there is no shortage of reaction to the coalition.

Question period: Wednesday, Dec. 3

The economy, separatists and old deals between Harper and Duceppe take centre-stage.

MPs weigh in

Watch candid answers from MPs outside the House of Commons when CTV puts them in the hot seat.

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