Ignatieff calls on PM to extend Jean's term as GG

Governor General Michaelle Jean became the subject of praise as well as political controversy on Sunday, when Liberal Leader Michael Ignatieff said she should have her term in office extended.

CTV News Extended: Michael Ignatieff comments

Liberal Leader Michael Ignatieff says Michaelle Jean should have her term as governor general extended. His opinion, he explains, was solicited by the Canadian secretary to the Queen because he is a party leader.

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Gov. Gen. Michaelle Jean delivers a speech touting freedom of the press prior to a round table discussion on the role of the media in a democracy while visiting the National University of Rwanda in Butare, Rwanda on Thursday, April 22, 2010. (Sean Kilpatrick / THE CANADIAN PRESS)

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I agree with Ignatieff. She should have her term extended. I don't know why Harper dislikes her so much. She accepted his request to shut down Parliament twice.

Will

Ignatieff calls on PM to extend Jean's term as GG

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Ignatieff calls on PM to extend Jean's term as GG

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CTV.ca News Staff

Date: Sun. May. 2 2010 9:40 PM ET

Gov. Gen. Michaelle Jean has served with "distinction and honour" and should have her term extended beyond September, says Liberal Leader Michael Ignatieff.

Ignatieff made his remarks after the Canadian secretary to the Queen asked him for suggestions on who should succeed Jean.

"Ms. Jean has done a superb job," Ignatieff said, noting the governor general's advocacy work and her ability to inspire Canadians. "I am calling on (Prime Minister) Stephen Harper to reconsider his decision to replace her."

An internal email sent to the Tory caucus and obtained by CTV News urged members not to comment on what it called Ignatieff's "gaffe," adding the Liberal leader "is offending constitutional convention by making a partisan issue of the Governor General's appointment."

While governors general are appointed to five-year terms, extensions of one to two years have been granted on several occasions, including to Jean's predecessor, Adrienne Clarkson.

But Ignatieff's public comments represent a break with the non-partisan tradition on matters relating to the Governor General. Decisions on whom to appoint or whether to grant an extension are usually made behind closed doors.

In explaining his stance, Ignatieff said Canadians were "deeply moved" by Jean's swift response to the massive earthquake in her homeland of Haiti, that killed more than 200,000 people.

He also said Jean "has been a powerful advocate of Aboriginal and Arctic people," and her own personal story has been an inspiration to young Canadians.

"As a francophone woman who overcame great obstacles to get where she is today, and as the first black Canadian appointed as Governor General, I can't imagine a better role model for young Canadians, particularly young girls," he said.

In response, the Prime Minister's Office released a statement that said Jean has done "an exceptional job representing Canada," and stated that Jean and Prime Minister Stephen Harper "have an excellent working relationship."

Guessing who might become the next governor general has become a popular game for political pundits in recent weeks.

So far, speculation has touched on several names, including Rick Hansen, the famous athlete and activist for disabled rights, and former Reform leader Preston Manning.

Other suggestions have been firmly tongue-in-cheek, like Star Trek actor William Shatner. A Facebook group backing Shatner has attracted thousands of fans.

As the Queen's representative, the governor general is technically Canada's head of state, although the position has become largely ceremonial.

The governor general is responsible for appointing a new government, among other things, and is appointed by the prime minister.

In December 2008, Jean granted Harper's request to prorogue Parliament while his Conservative minority government was being threatened by a coalition of opposition parties.

According to Robert Finch, dominion chair of the Monarchist League of Canada, Ignatieff's public endorsement could threaten the governor general's independence by politicizing the appointment process.

"I'm a little bit blown away," Finch said. "It's certainly unusual for a leader of an Opposition -- or anybody, actually -- to go public with their suggestions as to who should be governor general."

With files from The Canadian Press

Comments are now closed for this story

Gregoryd
said

I like the job she has done but I don't think we need a GG anymore. In fact I am all for changing our whole system of government. This system was a hangover from England in the days when they were relevent to our way of life. But like all things times change and we need to change our system of government as it is obviously not working. MPs do not vote with the constituents that elect them so in essence there is only one individual in all parties that decide on issues. Yes the party does elect the dictator but they are still basically a dictator. I think parliment votes should be all free votes and I know many will say nothing will get done but what is wrong with that. Less government is a good thing. After all this system is over 100 years old so how can it be relevent to the Canada of today? Heck I am 60 and my grandchildren say I am not that relevent in this day and age.

ken from alberta
said

Iggy, why dont you think of something that is constructive for the country. You always come up with dumb ideas.

Citizen
said

For those of you talking about getting rid of the GG need to look at parliamentary rules and tradition. If we didn't have a GG we woul need to replace it with an elected office of some kind because the Prime Minister cannot be both head of government and head of state. An elected office would be MORE expensive then the GG because you would have to include an election. Besides the GG is part of our history and I don't think we should be so quick in a time of rampant Americanization of our society to through out some of those things that make us Canadian.

Jerry
said

Leave Ms. Jean in as she has been the best GG I can remember or just abolish the position. She is the only one that came close to being worth the expense.

Doug in Dartmouth
said

Lets say the PM did extend her term. And than another GG is appointed. And that GG's term comes up. And that GG's term is not extended. Would that be an insult?This is an appointment for a fixed term, and there is no reason to extended it. The Leader of the Opposition is not thinking beyond the end of his nose.

Fred - Brandon MB
said

Somebody gas to tell Ignatieff that he isn't the PM, and never will be. Why would Harper want to extend the term of a Liberal appointee?

Allan
said

Would it not be neat to have a government that would work for the people and not for their own agenda. Just maybe we would have a country that others would look up to. Enough of the mud slinging and name calling. Get on with running this country. As for the GG lets put someone in who is a common person for a change.

Mark
said

Iggy is just trying to buy time hoping that he somehow gets elected as PM and then he'll make his own appointment. Whoever it is, I hope it is someone who actually lives in Canada, not a ex-pat like Shatner

Steve
said

Iggy the stooge! Why is he making this political. Obviously he's been away in the US of A way too long -he's forgotten how we do it here in Canada. Shame on him! The Liberals should turf this jerk

Rob
said

If that what it takes to redo the constitution lets do it. We need a major change in this country, the way we are headed is nothing but down hill! Constitution will be re written buy Canadians that have been here for than 3 generations and with people who have common sense!

Jim-Surrey
said

This is something that Iggy should not be getting his nose and big mouth into.The GG is non-partisan position and his mouth could have just started more issues over party support in this area.YES she has done a great job, but she also said she had other things to do in her life so if The PM does offer her an extension is it her call.nothing to do with an Iggy comment!Just wanted his name in print AGAIN!!!!!!!!!!!

Gaunilon
said

Note to the author of the article: the Governor General is not technically Canada's Head of State. She is the representative of the Head of State, who is the Queen.,

J.W.
said

Do we really need GG's. One of GG's trips costs more than I make a year and her hat costs more than my monthly pay.

sharon fulton
said

Please let her stay, she is elegant, classy, and a very compassionate person. She appears to be much more down to earth that the previous incumbent.

FRIEND
said

I am a great supporter of Her Excellency... I know her personally so I know it is not intentional, but her speeches tend to draw too much association to her roots, to her femininity, to her color, to her.... All of these are important but she needs to pronounce more loudly that she is Canadian!As for keeping the position.. there is always the question of cost... Our country is young, but we need to keep the traditions and lineage we have... Rideau Hall is part of our history... We have cut so much fat off of our heritage, but we need to remember where we come from... Replacement. It is time. She has done her part, we have looked up to her.. Maybe it's time for her to put her attention into her own projects, such as Haiti, so that her personal projects to overtake the office of Rideau Hall... I hate to agree with Harper... Iggy... the GG affairs are closed doors.. how to we nominate our none-partisan rep to the Queen if we make a political debate about it... Really?

Rob NS
said

Iggy's anti goverment streak continues...Whatever the Conversative goverment does, is wrong! Time for a new Liberal plan.

Jan
said

I think it is a great idea to extend her term. She has been a terrific GG!

Andrew
said

The Liberals were "mad" about the two prorogues of Parliament. This was, in theory, the call of the Governor General..Have the changed their stance towards proroguing Parliament? Do they think this was a good idea and that it was not against democracy? If you argue that it wasn't really the GG decision and the PM was just pulling the strings, then was she really doing a good job? If it was her decision, then you have tons of quotes from Iggy condemning the action. The Liberals really have to clarify their position.

Havelock Heavy
said

Good for him. I"m glad someone finally spoke up on this issue. Other GG's terms have been extended and she has been doing a great job so there is absolutely no reason to replace her. This is yet another Harper tactic to put only his cronies in positions that he can then manipulate at will. Thank you Iggy!!

phil in london
said

Iggy really has to brush up on his position as opposition leader. They do not generally appoint a GG nor recomend one to the Old Bag in England who officially grants us Canadian peons our representative head of state.I think Harper should appoint the blowhard leader of the liberal party. 5 Years as GG and he may actually have some sense of both who and what Canadians are.At least at that point he'd have enough time in this country that maybe he would leave us all alone.

Spence in Ontario
said

I would actually like to see Jean's term extended. I was mad at her for granting Harper's request to prorogue parliament twice, I really think she shouldn't have. Despite that I think she has served Canada very well and she's quite popular. Ignatieff is perfectly within his rights to ask for her term to be extended. It isn't a usual request but i really don't see any harm in it.The position of Governor General actually does serve Canada in many ways. It gives us a very good ambassador and non partisan figure for diplomatic visits to other countries. Personally I think it also gives citizens a person in government that we can view as a bit more human and less of a partisan political figure.

Greg
said

Rob oh hit the nail on the head. You may not like Harper, but at least you know where he stands on things. All Iggy does is grand-stand and oppose everything.!! He wants to be Prime Minister but I can't tell you what direction he wants to take the country.At least the NDP and Bloc support some ideas or suggest ammendments to them if they think they are worth-while ideas that are good for the country in general. The role of the opposition is to help keep the gov. in check, not just oppose everything just because the gov. came up with the idea. Surely even Harper has come up one or two decent ideas the past year and a half!I wonder if Iggy would want Jean to stay if she had been a Conservative appointment?

Diane Eyre
said

I, too, think that Michaelle Jean is the very best choice to be the Governor General of Canada. She has brought a depth of humanity and sincerity to this position that has resonated with many Canadians. Her presence at official functions has always been carried off with aplomb as well as regality. I hope that the Prime Minister will reconsider his decision to replace her and offer her the opportunity to continue as our Governor General for an extended term.

Canadian Against Proroguation
said

Let her Go... She agreed with Harper to Prorogue parliament TWICE in the period of One Year!!!!

Robert Brise
said

A Great GG!!! no questioning it.Many Buts! But as she was appointed by the Liberal party is there an underlying reason Iggy wants her term extended? But, I wonder married to a avowed separatist, Humm, is that a healthy relation for the country of CANADA?

Brian in Calgary
said

No..her term is up, time to move on. She did a good job especially for her people in Haiti, maybe there is a job for her down there getting that country back up and running, as for Iggy, hes from the USA, his term is up for being the opposition idiot and he can go back to the USA and dictate his views down there. By the way, its not the Prime Minister who extends the GG possition, its the Queen..remember all, shes the head of state of this country or did something change by Iggy and crew. I think Iggy has been out of country too long to actually know how the country works.

Paul in Brant
said

Here's an idea...the PM should offer the job to Iggy!

Anton Kuerti Toronto
said

The level of ignorance and vicious hostility displayed in most of the comments on this story is very disturbing. Michaelle Jean is a truly remarkable lady, appointing her was an inspired choice. When Harper and all of his party boycotted the Governor General Awards a few years ago, a background story quoted an unnamed prominent cabinet minister as saying "we don't like this Governor General". This is an utterly despicable and shameful remark to make about one's head of state, and absolutely unjustified. She is highly intelligent, well informed, extraordinarily gracious, has an extremely high degree of culture and has given the very best impression of Canada to the world. She should serve as long as she is willing, but it is understandable if she would prefer to quit because of the way in which the government has steadily undermined her.

PopaJo
said

Isn't she the one who help prorogue parliament twice in two years? Why is Ignatieff suddenly sucking up to her? Wow our political choice is SO limited.

don.h
said

tell the royal family that we are not footing the bill for her representative in this country any more,we already have enough freeloaders in this country already. if we need a representative in this country let it be a true canadian, who answers to canada, and not the oueen of england.

CAB
said

I would disagree strongly once again with American Ignatief. I would prefer to see someone who better represents the average Canadian and whose comments reflect better the average Canadian.

Travis
said

William Shatner for Governor General!I can't speak for most Canadians, buy I can for myself - I cannot identify with the GG, or even with politicians.When I think about all the Canadians I know, the one that seems to be the most down-to-earth, what you see is what you get, no BS is William Shatner.Let's not extend Jean's term - her term is over. Now it's time to get someone else in.The other option is to close up the position. We don't really need a governor general.

Rob
said

I think we should make William Shatner next G.G. and he can beam them both up never to be heard from again.. Why would he even invole himself with this when the position and person are both both questionable.

charlie
said

An echo of another time and place has relevance here - "Would you buy a used car from this man?"

Prof. Pye Chartt
said

We've got plenty of "qualified" folks to serve as a figurehead of Canada. Let's not pretend that Ms. Jean's "job skills" are terribly unique and unbeatable. A lovely woman, indeed, but she represented us with only modest distinction. Thanks, but your "contract" is about to expire. A fresh, respectable face always invigorates the role and the duty. Mr. Ignatieff is merely fulfilling his self-prescribed political obligation to zig when the government wants to zag.

Simon in Toronto
said

Amateur hour continues at Liberal Pary headquarters....

S Crawford in the Sault
said

"The Queen's Canadian secretary ... should keep their nose out of Canadian affairs. " Canada IS the Queen's affair; she is the Queen of Canada. When Trudeau patriated the Constitution, this relationship was re-affirmed.

Duane
said

Does the leader of the Liberal party somehow not understand that the call is not his. I am sure that very few people would complain if the present term was extended. The fact is however, that it is the call of the Prime Minister.

dan
said

Its time to get rid of this position it's a huge waste of money. Put the money into healthcare or something that will do the people of Canada some good. Why do we need a reprentitive to the Queen for. We are our own country , its time!

Paul Y
said

Time to disconnect with the British Monarchy completely and replace it with an elected head of state for Canada who would continue with the same duties and responsibilities and would only answer to Canadians. To satisfy those who want a Monarch, the elected person could retain the title of King or Queen. The British Queen, even though a pleasant and well liked person, is in a conflict of interest position by being head of state for several countries, which is not in Canada's best interest. If a conflict arose between Canada and Britian, chances are she would take Britian's side or try to remain neutral. Our head of state should be 100% for Canada at all times!

Jason Daniel Baker, Toronto
said

I personally think Michaelle Jean has injected a little too much drama into the job of Governor-General and gotten a little too carried away letting the role go to her head.Anyone know what kind of bills she has racked up as GG for flights and accomodation? That was a source of controversy a while back.The prime minister might not reject extending Jean's term out of hand. The second she quits she is likely going to write about her experiences in the job and he may not want for her to write things about him that we don't know about.

hans reno
said

the libreals seem to be trying to score brownie points with the public. it is time for a new g.m.it should only be one term and iggie should have no say in the matter. this is a figure head appointment so i don.t consider it to importand. except for the fact that i could put my tax dollar to better use.

Carol
said

The GG herself said she was leaving at the end of her term. Where have you been, Iggy????

Joe Taxpayer
said

IGNATIEFF must be desperate for votes to proffer his position on this matter. There have been wonderful GG's in the past and there will be wonderful GG's in the future. JEAN has done nothing special to earn the right to occupy the office any longer. IGNATIEFF, find something more important to comment on, like your lack of showing in the polls.

Linda in Vancouver
said

I think she has done an excellent job.And, no, this position is not a waste of tax dollars.But her term is over,andit's time for someone else to carry the torch. I'm guessing that peope who don't know what her job actually is,are the same people that think only Rick Hansen and Captain Kirk are up to the task.They may be the most famous of the names being bantied about,but there are at least a couple of more qualified people being talked about that would do an excellent job. For those who hate "wasted" tax dollars,yoiu should focus you anger at the Senate.Either make it a democratic institution,or fire the whole lot of them.I have never favoured abolishing our only "house of sober second thought",but if eastern Canada won't agree to fix it,get rid of the entire mess.It is an afront to any notion of equality and democracy as long as it continues to operate in it's current form.

Darrell
said

Iggy don't like Captain Kirk, that's what this is all about.

Adam
said

iT IS TIME FOR THE CONSERVATIVES TO CHOOSE THEIR OWN GOVERNOR GENERAL.Anyone who would present Morgentaler with the Order of Canada does not deserve another term.

MARG MM
said

I guess Michael Ignattief would know all about appointments, since he was appointed(annointed) leader of the Liberal party. What is his "hidden adgenda" now? He must think he is going to be the next PM, and if he ever wants to prorogue Parliament, he knows she will do it???I don't think that the Liberals have ever asked the Conservatives advice on who should be GG when they were the ones doing the appointing, so why should the Conservatives listen to Michael Ignatieff now??. Ms Jean may be a good GG, but her term is up, and it is time for someone new, as has always been the case in the past. Maybe time for someone West of Ontario!!!!

Bill in BC
said

While I early on stated the the GG should be extended, having done an exemplary job, Iggy is still an idiot. Having no idea of exactly HOW our constitutional monarchy works, he prattles on about things he doesn't understand. He, and his party, continue to reppresent nothing to Canadians.

Raymond
said

@Will: Who ever said Harper dislikes her? This is yet another pathetic attempt at spin by the LPC to find a wedge issue. Give it up.

Westcoaster
said

Ignatieff is almost always wrong on issues, so it's not unusual for him to be being wrong on this issue was well. The GG has done a fine job -- has made her own unique contibution to the role, but now it's time for someone else to pick up the mantle. I think that perhaps Ignatieff would be a good choice, but he is likely not available until after the next election. Come to think of it, maybe that's why he wants her term extended for a few months!

jdude
said

Rofl, can anyone say "waste of money?"

CYL
said

I think we should scrap the GG position. Does the queen not have enough reps to send here from England at England's expense if she, the queen, needs one. One less paycheque for us, maybe our taxes will decrease if we got rid of those who have no impact on the food on our tables, in our bellies or in our lives.Really !!! why do we need a GG ??

Mark from Brampton
said

The GG position is useless.If we keep her on, that means one less fat pension we will have to pay.Keep her on board till she dies.

Gloria Clay
said

I totally agree. She is beautiful, articulate and a real plus for the image of Canada. She has shown more than once she loves our country and that she has a heart. Her goodness shines through her beautiful smile and warm ways. She always dresses to perfection. I was shocked when I heard Mr. Harper wanted to replace her. She is one of Canada's best. She is an excellent roll model for Canadian women and young girls. I always feel so proud when I see her representing our country.

goldenboy2
said

So much negativity here. It's a shame that even the appointment of our vice regal representative results in such contentious debate and political mudslinging. As one of the oldest continuous institution in Canada and an appointment charged with carrying out the constitutional and ceremonial duties on behalf of the citizens of Canada, we owe the office and the individual occupying it a modicum of respect.The issue of whether Michaelle Jean is best suited to carrying on as GG for another period of time may be debatable, however what seems plain to me is that many are neither willing nor able to sustain a singular focus in rising to the debate. All of the accusations, recriminations and political posturing lend little to the debate.

Dr. M. H. Z.
said

I think the whole system of governor generals and the lieutenants in provinces is colonial and a huge waste of money, Having said that however I must admit that I think Jean is the best we have ever had especially comparing her to the last two female governor generals. Eucch! They were awful. But Jean was a refreshing change, natural, spontaneous, warm and likeable. Maybe that is why Harper does not like her she is such a contrast to him.

Bob
said

Talk about the kiss of death from Iggy!If Iggy wants a say, let him get elected.

Nancy: Iggy Go Home
said

I just wish Ignatieff our Uncle Sam could make one comment this year about something people care about. Who gets to win the free house and big salary for 4 yrs is not a concern.

Tom
said

Within the definition of her job and duties she has done a good job but the job itself like the British monarchy is redundant and no longer necessary. Yes we will always be friends and allies of the British but it's time to trim the proverbial fat.

Scott Johnson
said

The Governor General has been routinely replaced in a timely manner with other outstanding Canadian Citizens being presented to the Queen as honourable candidates. Her predecessor was an excellent representative of the queen and an accomplished Canadian, yet no cries across political lines demanding extensions or claiming foul. There is no issue here. The PM has not claimed dissatisfaction with the Governor General and there is no rift between her and the sitting government. It is the PM's prerogative to recommend a change and an opportunity to have the job done well by another capable candidate. I am a little perplexed at the Liberal leader's reasons to attempt to interfere in that which is not his to decide.

Henry Wysmulek
said

Screw this jobs for life liberal crap!This is one position that should be scrapped for being totally usless!

Adam
said

Mr Ignatieff should suggest a person of his following the gay and muslim community are his solid base and Iggy should not ignore us now.

charlie
said

Iggy says that Canadians were deeply moved by the GG's prompt response to the Haitian earthquake. Here, all this time, I thought it was the Prime Minister that ordered Canada's response and our over-stretched military which delivered it. Silly me - thanks for pointing out that it was really Ms. Jean! BTW. could you tell me just what she did short of the photo ops?.

Tyrone Toronto
said

Time for change. She inspired a group of people. Now its time to inspire another group.

Dan P
said

the GG office and position is a waste of taxpayer money and resources which should be abolished, along with the senate.

pm
said

I think Mme. Jean should still be our G.G. To me she is the best. Always smiling. So Mr. Harper for once listen TO THE PEOPLE!!!!

Wade Ens: Iggy Games
said

Iggy is just playing games after it was announced there would be a new one. Iggy is getting to be a professional crap disturber.

Ken
said

Iggy again demonstrates his ability to convey deep thoughts from a shallow mind! Pathetic! Find another issue or go play some golf!

themacguy
said

Nope, no way...Out with Jean, in with Shatner...Denny Crane!

OntarioMack
said

The Position of Governor General is a farce. It was a representitive to the Queen. We should not be associated with the Queen any longer. As for the present GG she is asasociated with the Separatist party and should never have been given the Job. Next we need to dissolve the Senate or at least make it an electited position. We could be saving Millions of Dollars.

Sober, Newmarket
said

Mr Ignatieff thinks he has to be hard at least once a week or so. Not so. And he doesn't have to give his opinion on everything in the nation.Let her follow her heart and go where she wants to be.

sarah
said

I really like Jean, and think she's done a great job as GG. However, if Iggy thinks he's going to score points with me over something like this he's got another thing coming. It's Cheap politics - where's the beef? Show me some substance and policy instead of this amateur stuff, please.

GRB
said

Jean has enjoyed the benefits of the GG's job for a term ...NOW it is time for another replacement. With 33 plus million Canadians there are so many others who would do am exemplary job . Paul Hillier, Peter Loughheed should also be considered. AND they should not have to speak French, as the UN, translatore are available.

charlie
said

I just read Paul Hellyer's comments about extra-terrestrial life and their technology impacting what we do here on earth. With the current penchant of his party for promoting visitors to high positions, perhaps he has some recommendations for GG - from a bit further away that the US?

aongasha
said

The Queen's Canadian secretary asked Count Iggy? That person, like their boss, should keep their nose out of Canadian affairs. Sounds like one snob talking to another snob - 'what are we going to do about these colonials - they need direction?'

Dave in Surrey
said

Jean has done an excellent job, no need to make a change at this point. Give her a 2 or 3 year extension. Rick Hansen is the only other viable choice but he is doing his thing and doing great at it, now might not be the most oportune time for him to leave his foundation with all the current work that can be done. Conservatives would love Manning but that would divide Canada even worse than it is now...

John MacPriest
said

its amazing how many people believe that the money spent on the GG is wasted. The appointment is part of our government, and cannot be just done away with. It is a constitutional necessecity, and until we are willing to change that, then it stays. Period. So, it is no more money wasted, than on any other institution our government is made up of. I would suggest that the Senate might be a better place to start making some changes. read elected.As for feeding our own, hiring more nurses, etc, etc. If we didn't have to pay for the GG, then we would quickly have the money eaten up, and spent on something else.

D Root
said

The G-G is not a "luxury." The position is a Constitutional requirement - the Sovereign's representative in Canada. To eliminate the G-G would require significant changes to the Constitution, including replacing the BNA Act, and succession from the Commonwealth. That aside, do we want a country where an un-elected politician can become our head of state?

M.M.B. Ont
said

Now Sir Iggy is asking for the GG's term to be extended yet I am sure that when she gave permission for Parliament to be prorogued, he had other choice words against her. Now he is praising her for serving our country well. Mr. Harper is also serving our country very well Sir Iggy so where are your words of praise for him? ... Thought so ! You have never had a positive thing to say about Canada and the Canadian people .. ever.!

allan
said

Is this the best stuff Iggy can come up with?GG is a waste of money title, and should not be extended, but abolished, period!

Cambob in Toronto
said

GG has done a decent job. Her tenure is over. Allow her the dignity to pursue other ambitions!

Mead
said

Jean served well, but just terminate the GG position. Totally useless fluff from a bygone era.

Doug # BC
said

Oh Michael.Will the pit bull in you never be restrained? I actually quite like our GG.But,in the very first place,it is the PM who appointes her.And,just as Jean Chretien consulted no one about his appointees,PM Harper has no duty to hear who the Liberals want.Secondly,extending the term of the GG is not conventional.That doesn't mean it can't be done.It just means that it is rarely done.I see no reason to think it should be done every time we get someone who does the job the way it should be done. That said,everyone est of Ontario should be more concerned about the bill in the Senate right now.The one passed by the NDP,the BLOC,and the Liberals,that demands all nominees to the Supreme Court of Canada have sufficent knowledge of both official languages to not only carry on a conversation,but to repsond to highly technical arguments,using legalese,in both official languages.In short,no western judges need appply for a Supreme Court job.You may be the very best there is,but that will be of no consequence. This plea for the GG is along the same lines.The Liberals are unable to come up with policies people can vote for,and are now on a mission to ensure that Liberals remain in power in other high places.Just like in the USA,they are demanding "their kind of people" sit in the highest court in the land.And,since the BLOC and the NDP are in the same left wing canoe,the Liberals will get their way. How sad for us.The best judicial minds may very well sit at home,while inferior judges got to the Supreme Court,for no other reason than they are bi-lingual.And,BTW,even the majority of people who do speak both official languages,do not do it well enough to satisfy this legislation. This is BAD LAW.

Mick Slick
said

Michaelle Jean is the best ambassador this country could have. Prime Minister, keeps yer mitts out of this one and let the lady be the best ambassador for Canada we've had in a long time. Fix what's broke, and leave what works alone. Salut!

Greg in Cambridge
said

I'd have to say "No". The only reason he wants this is because he thinks he can gain some political ground. It's time for someone else. Someone who was born here,has experience for the job and a working knowledge of the Royal Family. After Adrian Clarke's performance and the way she spent our money, I don't even think we need a GG anyway. Save the money.

bcgal
said

She has served her term and done a great job. Now it's time to pass the torch to someone else and get some fresh ideas into the office. Sorry Iggy but you can' t politicize everything.

hollis
said

i always voted liberal, up until now that is. she served her time. let somebody else waist the tax payers money for a change

Jarod
said

The GG is hardly a luxury -- to get rid of the position we would have to redo the Constitution - and good luck with that.

Paul
said

This is the first and very likely the only time that I agree with that idiot visitor. Jean is more than adequate for the job as GG, and did I mention how hot she is? The only person who could follow her is Shatner. LLAP

Earthwatcher
said

For lack of a better candidate (everyone EXCEPT the Conservatives have offered their opinion on who should succeed her) I would support extending Jean's term. Despite calls to abolish the position altogether, that is not going to happen. I think she has done exceptionally well, even with the little bit of a stir she causes chomping down on the raw seal. She is dignified, classy and as (although I am loathe to agree with Iggy) a wonderful role model for Canadian youth.

richie cunningham
said

This position is a job that is all about self promotion, (on the dime of taxpayers) . Jean has not done one thing that i as a canadian can relate to. Especially not her represented decal of the gg, that thing flies in the face of canadian taxpayers.

Rose
said

Good lord people,she is a big waste of money. Let her go

bc grrl
said

ABSOLUTELY NOT! ms jean did a deplorable job at representing the fabric of this nation, she has not once stated that she is a canadian, she chooses to place her heritage above her nationality and during the hatian earthquake she longed for 'home', all of her concern was for her home land and be damned the issues in the nation that pays her. her greatest concern was for the president and his homelessness issue, not about the tents for everyman that have to survive the upcoming hurricane season! she signed the hst into bc but when vanderzahm asked her to reconsider the papers which bore her name, she stated that provincial/federal issues were not her concern. her husband is a vocal separatist. she is an elitist who claims to speak for women and minorities but i have never seen her once go slumming with the everyday folk in this nation, save for a few photo ops where she is lavishing raw seal meat down her gullet! ms jean represented quebec just fine but what about the rest of canada? i would like to see the post of gg dissolved, along with a few other wasteful positions in our national leadership, it is an obsolete elitist position that no longer holds merit in today's society, except for in ottawa and quebec! don't let the door hit your backside on the way out ms jean! i think that iggy should take her arm and lead her back to her husband and he can stay with them in their own little world!

jjaycee
said

Public relations is an important part of Government and Commerce. Ms Jean has done an admiralble job but there are other Canadians in various fields that she could not possibly know anything about. It is time to have a man in that post and it is time for Rick Hillier IMO. We have spent lots of money grooming this guy for just such a position-he is a world traveller, tons of experience in World Politics as well as having the experience of managing people and public relations.

Jonathan
said

Michaelle Jean has been a great governor general, and I for one would be sad to see her leave. Let's extend her term so that she may continue to act as our non-partisan representative to the world.

jim from manitoba
said

iggy and his party can't even go up in the polls. even his leadership rating is third behind jack layton. is that all you have to offer us iggy?

NC
said

It's her time to go.

Chat
said

Why do we need a GG? If we must have one, let's break with the queen of England and have our own ceremonial head. I cannot understand why we have to have an agent of Elizabeth here in Ottawa. What we have is a rather unpatriotic system.

Will
said

I agree with Ignatieff. She should have her term extended. I don't know why Harper dislikes her so much. She accepted his request to shut down Parliament twice.

DOROTHY SHEWAN
said

She has been an exceptional Governor General for our country. Please consider extending her position. She is such a compliment to our nation and serves us so well with dignity, charm, great intelligence, understanding and such a wonderful touch of humanity.

Rob oh
said

Just because you are the opposition...doesn't mean you have to oppose EVERYTHING!!! The reason Harper had to prorogue, was because the Libs would rather oppose good legislation, than allow the Cons to pass much needed, good law, and gain popularty.Someone needs to remind them that power is for the people, not the party.

Joshua Wasylciw
said

Someone should inform Iggy that it is not Stephen Harper's "decision to replace her" - rather it is Stephen Harper's privilege to advise Her Majesty, the Queen, on who SHE decides will replace Her Excellency, Michelle Jean.While it is understandable that a man who has spent the last 30 years living in another country (the US) not understand Canadian politics, and while it is understanding that he not have a very high regard for the Queen (as per his own statements attesting to his desire to create a republican system of government in Canada) can't we all agree that before someone wants to be Prime Minister in Canada, they should have a basic sixth grade understanding of how government in Canada works?

Rob
said

Canada cannot afford luxuries, this job should be dropped and the money used for health care and hiring more health staff workers and not management.

John in Calgary
said

Boy, Ignatieff must really not like this GG to endorse her, I'm sure Harper will extend her now for suuuuure.

waynestunes
said

Lets let her go,take the money wasted and feed our children! It's time to take care of our own.

Marc - Toronto
said

Yet again Iggy is the party of NO. His only policy is to be against the Conservatives. Jean has been an outstanding GG. But the GG is rarely extended.

Laurel
said

I would love to see Michaelle Jean's term extended. She has brought dignity, compassion and trust to the position, which has been lacking in the past. I am sure there are other just as worthy candidates, but why replace her just because you can. We should keep her, if we are going to have the position filled.