No vote needed for Afghan extension, says Harper

Retired Col. Alain-Michel Pellerin from the Conference of Defence Associations says basic training is done in Kabul and that is the type of training planned for post 2011. Mentoring is after basic training and they go to Kandahar to face real life action.

CTV News Channel: Craig Oliver on Harper's stance

CTV's chief political correspondent says the prime minister is well within his rights to extend Canada's combat role in Afghanistan without going to parliament. He says it appears the Liberals are poised to support the Tories on the decision.

CTV News Channel: Sunil Ram, military analyst

A military analyst says in order for the training mission to be successful, the trainers have to operate in the field with the troops they are training. He says Canadian troops in the training mission will be involved in combat and the government is lying.

Canada AM: Scott Taylor, military analyst

A military analyst says he is very disappointed that the Canadian Afghan mission has been extended. He also does not understand why no one is questioning the government's decision to continue to train young Afghans on how to fire weapons.

CTV News Channel: Retired Col. Michel Drapeau

A retired colonel and military law expert says if Canada was serious about training Afghans, the safest way to do so would be to bring a few hundred of them to Canada so they can become military trainers themselves.

CTV Special Report: Stephen Harper

Prime Minister Stephen Harper says the government has increased payment and programs for veterans and will continue to monitor the programs. Taking care of people who severed the country is a high priority. He also discusses Canada's role in Afghanistan and the training mission.

Watch: See all Videos in the Player

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Major Austin Douglas, left, and Warrant Officer Adam Taylor, right, secure area in Khenjakak, Panjwaii district, Kandahar, Afghanistan, Oct. 28, 2010. (Jonathan Montpetit / THE CANADIAN PRESS)

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CTV.ca News Staff

Date: Fri. Nov. 12 2010 10:09 PM ET

Despite the controversy surrounding his government's decision to extend the Canadian mission in Afghanistan, Prime Minister Stephen Harper says there's no need to put the move to a vote.

Talking to reporters at the G20 summit in Seoul, South Korea, Harper said because the mission extension is focused on training rather than combat, Parliament doesn't need to approve it.

"If you're going to put troops into combat, into a war situation, I do think for the sake of legitimacy, I do think the government does require the support of Parliament. But when we're talking simply about technical or training missions, I do think that's something the executive can do on its own," Harper said.

Although their input into the decision isn't needed, the prime minister nevertheless invited Parliamentarians to discuss it all they want.

"If they have any specific ideas they want to share, I'm not resistant to having debates on that matter in the House of Commons," Harper said. "But I do think that when it comes to decisions such as this, the government has to be able to be free to act."

Canadian troops are slated to end their combat mission in Afghanistan next July. Harper has said the extended mission would be strictly non-combat, and would likely last from 2011 to 2014.

According to some reports, the complement of soldiers and support staff staying on in a training capacity will be between 600 and 1,000.

On Sunday, Defence Minister Peter MacKay suggested that a decision about an extended role for Canadian troops in Afghanistan could be made before Nov. 18.

NATO is due to hold a leaders' summit in Portugal on that date, and MacKay said the government may decide on Canada's future role in Afghanistan prior to that meeting.

However, the entire debate hinges on the definition and actual activities of the training mission, said Alain Pellerin, a retired Canadian army colonel.

He told CTV's Power Play that Canadian troops could be stationed "behind the wire" in Kabul, where they would be aiding new recruits in rudimentary training procedures.

Canadian troops would also help to "instill discipline" in new Afghan recruits and help them prepare for the next stage in their training, which would include heading into more dangerous environs.

At that point, a more involved training mission could also result in troops heading to Helmand and Kandahar for in-field mentoring and training, where clashes with the Taliban are always a possibility.

"One is a benign environment, if you can call Kabul a benign environment. The other is a state of war in the south," said Pellerin, differentiating between the two different training scenarios.

However, while Canada's combat role appears to be drawing to a close, Pellerin said that many troops feel as if they are leaving before the mission is completed.

As it stands now, there is a shortfall of trainers as NATO needs to ensure that Afghanistan has a standing army and a functioning police force.

However, if Canada maintains a training role in Afghanistan until the scheduled scale down of the NATO mission, the Canadian Forces "can saw they were part of that success story."

Weighing in on the debate, military analyst Scott Taylor said he is baffled by the government's position.

"There's no creativity in this move," Taylor said in an interview from Ottawa Friday, suggesting that the question should really be why, after nine years, Afghan forces aren't already trained well enough to take over the duties on their own.

According to Taylor, the estimated 15,000 Taliban insurgents currently active in Afghanistan are heavily outnumbered by the 275,000 Afghan police and soldiers already trained by Canadian forces and their allies.

"They are not motivated to the same degree the Taliban are," Taylor said, explaining that the foreign-trained Afghan forces now amount to "a monster" of our creation.

"The police and military are quite often seen as tools of the corruption, that then becomes the face of corruption for the (Hamid) Karzai government," Taylor said. "And now to hear that we're going to create a bigger monster for a longer period of time is very disappointing."

With files from The Associated Press

Comments are now closed for this story

Paul
said

Hey! Is our goal to 'protect' our troops from being near combat or train the Af's for what they need when they need it?

Prof. Pye Chartt
said

@ Sick of Canadians: You say that our PM suffers from a "Superiority Complex," however, could it be that those sporting the multifaceted anger that you seemingly do are caught up in some sort of "Inferiority Complex" wherein you fail to recognize, realize, and/or exercise the democratic ability to dethrone Mr. Harper (your evil nemesis) by bringing down the government. Canada boasts a parliamentary democracy. All that you require to bring sunshine and happiness upon yourselves is broad support for the Opposition headed by Michael Ignatieff. Oh, wait...that requires dreaming. Never mind. I understand your anger and frustration now. My apologies for the prior lack of compassion.

Paul
said

It would be interesting to see what the comments would have been if the article was titled, "Harper Open to Debate on Afghan Training Role".

Chris, Banff
said

Harper may be entitled to handle this issue without a vote but if he does it will the absolute end of my support for the CPC at the ballot box. This will be continued combat no matter what they call it. Bring them home, get them out. Save your semantics and spin.We do NOT send our troops into harm's way without a full democratic process and consensus.

Helmut Zobl
said

Yet another example of Harper's contempt for parliament.

Martin Dufresne
said

Harper should be held directly accountable by the parents of the soldiers who will die after the date he had promised to bring our troops home.

@ Mike from Central Ontario
said

Ah Mike, As a member of the Armed forces, and a veteran of several "peace keeping" missions, and the war in afghanistan I can tell you that it is attitudes such as yours that we on the front lines find just so frustrating. As you might remember, our "peacekeeping" missions in the balkans, and in the african theater were collossal failures because they lacked the mandate but also the military muscle to bring an end to the fighting. (Wich ultimately did happen with the intervention of the US), They were paralized by governments unable to give them the mandate to truely stop the combatants from fighting (F-16s were needed to make them stop). So, we watched people get killed, and reported what we saw back to the UN. Sure there were some isolated success stories, and we did everything we could to protect the innocent, but for the most part, especially in Rawanda and somolia, we just watched, handed out some candy to kids, maybe built the odd school that was burnt down shortly after we left, and once again we reported what we saw. Thats how ur "peace missions" go. Ive been there. Or should we call them "war watching missions" Now im sure someone will throw cypress in my face here, but just remember that in cypress both sides agreed to stop fighting. So maybe we can find somewhere were they are ready to stop fighting, and put us there to sit and do nothing for another 40 yrs. Im sure our allies would love that. After all we have no fighting history at all right?? Well except for the Boer war, oh and WWI, oh and WWII,... and then Korea, ... ooops there is kosovo in there too. Oh and trying to give afghans hope as well,...

cath
said

I hate this war! Why does he get to continue this war of choice with my tax dollars but he won't let my tax dollars help 3rd world women with safe abortions in their war torn countries...it really still is a man's world. Women we need to unite and back leaders who really care about women and children!

J.Harris
said

Our PM is doing as Obama recently requested in extending the mission.
Pretty soon OLD GLORY will be sporting AN EXTRA STAR.

KESINC
said

Classic Grand High Poobah Harper. Regardless of the purpose of Canada's mission in Afghanistan, it will require taxpayers' dollars to do it. I suppose he also has a plan to convince the Taliban not to shoot at our military personnel because they are there to provide training???

Mike R.
said

Not that he would give a damn if a vote was indeed needed. This is not a government particularly worried about democracy - in fact it seems to despise it.

Joe C
said

@Peter in MB: Those are not details. Details would include such things as: Where will our troops be located? What exactly is their mission? How will we know when the mission is accomplished? What is the risk to our soldiers over there? Will we be working with other NATO allies in this mission? Those are just some questions off the top of my head that I reckon the opposition would like answered.

Vic
said

PM is more likely military hegemony.

bonnie
said

For all those who say sending our troops to war is can simply be done throught the Prime Ministers Office you are right, BUT for those troops to be funded he needs to come to parliament to get the money!!! Good luch Stephen Harper your time as PM is coming to a quick end!!!

David Lague
said

Stephen Harper is acting more and more like a dictator. Caring less and less about the Canadian people and what we want or need.

Narin
said

He lied but anyway it is understandable that he didn't really want to extend the stay but he have got the pressure from US/UN.

Tad
said

With news like this it's obvious Harper likes being called a dictator.

Steve in Manotick
said

Hey back at Mitch it sounds like a fabulous idea.. Send the afganis trained in Canada back to their homeland so they CAN Make a difference. Bring our bring our men home. Its Time for those Afganis who fled to go home and fix the mess..

Peter in MB
said

Joe C� (To all of the Liberal-bashers who are accusing Ignatieff on opposing this for the sake of opposing it: I believe he has only asked for more details regarding the mission extension.) Re�He wants more DETAILS??? Seriously!!! What Part of this plan is so difficult for Ignatieff and the liberals to understand??? Canada will be pulling out our combat troops in July 2011 and 600-1000 will remain in a training non combat role!!! Does Steven Harper have to get a bunch of kindergarteners to draw out this plan in crayon for the liberals to be able to understand it??? Seriously!!!

BK in Cornwall
said

I'm really sick of all you left wingnuts tossing around words like 'fuhrer' and 'dictator'. Obviously you have no idea as to their meaning. Let the government govern and stop your whining.

Albertaboy111
said

While this is another example of Harper's petty, loophole politics, I agree we should not leave until it's done. We are making good progress. Too bad it won't be Canadians decision.

Albertaboy111
said

Redneck Albertan, He has done nearly everything in his power to ignore or go against the will of the house, and therefor the majority of Canadians. That makes him somewhat of a dictator. Can you name the last PM who actually had to have a speakers ruling forcing him to go with the will of parliament?

Firinn
said

The KIng has spoken and his minions with their supposedly higher intellect nod their lemming heads. All for one .9years,,,,, longer then WW2 !Is Osama in a hole like Saddam ?first Iraq, now Afgan, who's next ,,,, gee george Iran maybe!So lemmings keep nodding that higher then though brows, your right ,,the WAR against ???oh yes TERROR!War should always be the last resort, how many has America started ? And not just in the middle east , read deeper in Central and South America.Conservative hypocrisy at it's prime! Theres the cliff, follow the leader oh wise ones!

J-D
said

Are goverment is a democratie but Harper think he can decide what ever he want. we were told that 2011 was the deadline not 2014.

Peter
said

"And our furor speaks again. I make the rules, no need for parliament to vote..."YAWWWN.No. If you were remotely informed on parliamentary procedure you'd know that THOSE RULES say he doesn't have to take it to a vote. For that matter there has NEVER BEEN, except for WWII, a vote in the HoC on whether or not to deploy troops.The PM doesn't need to do this and never did. So no, Harper ISN'T making up the rules he's following them just as Chretien did when he signed us up for Afghanistan without asking the HoC for a vote.Why do you make assertions like "Harper's making up his own rules", when you haven't the foggiest notion what those rules are?Please just sit down and be quiet.

Frank D.
said

Would Canada be conducting a theater of operations in Afghanistan if the enemy was friendley to the individuals who want to install the"Trans- Afghan Pipeline" to the Pakistan seaport? Because if its not, then what county is next that we are going to liberate in the name of democracy?

Obviously
said

Votes only happen in Democratic societies, so why would we expect Harper to put this one to vote.

Kel in Victoria
said

Whatever you say President Harper...

Time for a change, fire Blackburn!
said

So we are going to create more Canadian combat veterans, for Veteran Affairs to steal from... wonderful.

Carl
said

Troop deployments have always been an executive decision, not a legislative decision. Chretien never held a vote in parliament when he sent our troops to Afghanistan in the first place. Martin never held a vote in parliament when he sent out troops into combat in Khandahar. The vote held in parliament by Harper on the extension of the combat mission until 2011 was the first vote held on a Canadian troop deployment since WW2. So the Liberals can hardly cry foul over this.

Gavyn
said

It's really unfortunate that more people in our country don't pay any attention to politics and the majority who do are generally very poorly educated on the matters at hand (my apologies to those that do take the time to educate yourselves before stating your opinions as fact).

However, I do still believe that our soldiers should be brought home. It's what the people want, and I'm sure it's what our soldiers want. An extension of their stay is a direct violation of the government's promise to its people. And what good is any government that does not keep its promises to its people?

Bring our soldiers home! If it's truly in our country's best interest, then publicly make your arguments as to why and put it to a vote. If you cannot convince the people of your own country of that the losses and broken promises are worth the long- and short-term gains, then you are a poor leader or are saved from making the wrong decision.

tiger84
said

He is the PM. We as Canadians elected his party and he as leader of that party is the PM. As a serving member of the forces and having served in Kandahar, I believe this is the right decision at this time. We shouldnt leave untill the job is done

DougB in Calgary
said

Some people call Afghanistan a HELL HOLE and we should not be there. Are not HELL HOLES the places we send armies into to stop them being that. I do recall from 1939 to 1945 all of Europe was a living hell hole. 6 million jews were killed, the Dutch starved. As a result of Countries like Canada, these countries have turned themselves around and have each an army that was helped built and trained by our Country. We did not pull out and turn our backs on these people, why are Afghans any different. Yes thank goodness Iggy wasnt Prime Minister during WW2 or we would all be speaking German, even in Quebec. Keep some troops back and let them train the Afghans, beats doing nothing under the UN missions.

william
said

This is not democracy.When did the PM decide he could run the whole House of Commons? There are a lot of lives at stake here, in a country that will not get better no matter how much effort all the countries put in. Pull them all out, as has been discussed.

Michael in Halifax
said

I am I missing something here. I did not think that an elected PM has to go to Parliament for a vote every time he wants to do something. Did we the people of Canada not go to the polls and elect this man as Prime Minister? People like Angry Tory does not understand that PM Harper did not commit our troops to combat. That was done for him by the Liberals and your right Tory, PM Harper is not a dictator as he was elected by the people of Canada to make decisions just like this one so STOP saying this is not a democracy because it is a democracy and the people of Canada voted to put Mr. Harper into the PMs job. I agree with Mike from Halifax when he said that no matter what the PM does he is always slammed for it. The man can�t win with some people. As for Steve in Manotick, you my friend are way out of line refereeing to the PM as Heir Harper, not one of past or this PM has ever acted or ruled like the Nazi party officials and you should be ashamed of your self for even addressing him like this. Read some history books about the Nazi party and what they did to people then ask yourself, has any of our PMs ever been that bad. In closing all I will as is well done PM Harper, you have my vote for this decision.

MARG MM
said

If some of you would read the actual article, and not just the headline, there would be no need for the disgusting,hateful comments that appear here. However we all know that the usual Harper Haters don't care about anything other than slamming the PM , regardless of the issue. Surely you are aware that your leader Michael Ignatieff is also in favor of a training mission,at least he was a few days ago, I suppose that is subject to change. The soldiers are the ones giving their lives for the cause in Afghanistan, so should have input into whether the mission is turned into training. From what I have read, they seem to want to continue in that role and prefer to finish what has been started. Some of the families of slain soldiers have also come out and said that their loved ones would want the mission to continue, since there was so much progress made for the people of Afghanistan. We should be proud of our forces and what they have accomplished, and the petty, hateful comments are uncalled for.

Redneck Vic
said

He has every right to do this, he does not need anyones approval to do it. He got more votes on election day than the other parties did so he is our leader, just look at the percentage of votes for each party and we won! Remember there was no coalition at the time so each party was on there own and all three lost!! Not only is he our leader he is also the best one for the job! Do you even possibly think smilin Jack or flip flop Iggy would be better?? Time for the nay sayers to grow up and realize that the best man for the job is already in there!!!

GRB
said

My exact words days ago...it is time after nine years if Afghan forces aren't already trained well enough to take over the duties on their own too bad. To Obama , McCain, Karzai a negative response. NO ..Afghans should NOT be trained in Canada. It is a dangerous & ridiculous recommendation. There are many other NATO countries who can be assigned this duty. Ask Germany , the Russians Aug 2011 was the declared date to depart and Aug 2011 it should be.

Ronald
said

He promise to pull the troops out by July 2011 and now he will be keeping about 600 soldiers to train the Afghan police what a joke. Mr. Harper as know dam idea what these poor soldiers have gone threw and it seems to me he does not give a dam about there lives at all. Now he is acting like the DICTATOR that he his, I taught we live in a so call democracy and a vote is suppose to be held in the House of Commons on this issue,but instead he gave the finger to our system to me that is a dictorship. Know wonder many of his fellow conservatives are thinking of leaving his party because they are not suppose to have a opinions and must click there heels to there master Harper and if they go against him he fires that ministers who go against him.

Nomore Apathy
said

Canadians, lease email your MP's and PremiersDear (your MP)Mr Steven Harper was quoted by reporters during the G20 summit in Seoul saying, "My position is if you're going to put troops into combat, into a war situation, I do think for the sake ...of legitimacy, I do think the government does require the support of Parliament," he said. "But when we're talking simply about technical or training missions, I think that is something the executive can do on its own."I am writing to inform you, Mr. MP, and Mr. Harper, that the Canadian people WANT THEIR TROOPS HOME - all of them, in 2011 as promised by Mr. Harper. We are DONE in Afghanistan, we never should have been there. Technically Mr. Harper may not need a vote, however it is not HIS sons and daughters he is electing, without the support of the Canadian people, to remain in a war that will never end, is it? We, the people, DEMAND Mr Harper not break his promise in this matter! We DEMAND ALL of our troops returned home in 2011.Sincerely,

Dr. J. Bradford
said

Prime Minister Stephen Harper, one of the best Prime Ministers Canada has known. The man can think on his feet and isn't afraid to take a stand without running to pollsters on every decision like the Liberals did. A man who is not afraid to make a decision though it may be unpopular but sticks to the convictions and information presented to him..... reminds me of the saying.. "Annoy a Liberal, take personal responsibility". He has my vote, he is a leader which Canada needs right now.

Richard in Ontario
said

To the LIbs on here that demand a vote. I was under the impression that the dynamic duo that runs the Liberal party, Iggy and Bob decided that this is what we should do. Or then again, maybe they didn't. They might not have seen how the wind is blowing lately. Then they will make a decision to support this, or maybe not. The Flip Flopping duo will be at it again.

Bryn in BC
said

Thank you CdnArmyGuy, for your comments and your service.For anyone who's saying Mr. Harper is being a dictator here, please take the time to inform yourselves of how our government works. If the opposition is truly against this, they can call for a vote.To the people who are likening PM Harper to Hitler, I just say that you should be ashamed of yourselves. To be dramatic is one thing, but to exhibit your ignorance and disgrace yourselves and our country like that is shameful. Grow up.

David
said

What a joke, let the people vote, its our money. I wish we had a leader with a smaller ego !

Joe C
said

To all of the Liberal-bashers who are accusing Ignatieff on opposing this for the sake of opposing it: I believe he has only asked for more details regarding the mission extension before deciding whether or not to support it. Please stop fear-mongering.

Glenn in Winnipeg
said

it is abundantly apparent that there is little to no understanding of what Canada's prior commitments to its NATO allies are. While some Canadians believe that Canada's commitment and obligations to NATO may be shaped to suit our needs from time to time, I don't believe that is what the previous authority (by vote) of the Government of Canada intended. For Canada to completely walk away from the Afghanistan war is to do the unthinkable .... leaving your friends because the fight is too costly. That is worse than losing the votes of some fringe countries at the UN. Losing the confidence of your friends is unthinkable. Staying to assist in a training role, assists the United Nations sanctioned Nato mission. I don't believe that a vote for this reduced role is required.

Dave in Ottawa
said

It's not that we don't want them in a combat role, it's that we don't want them there in any role. Period, full stop.Are the rest of you as sick of politicians lying and giving false promises just to get elected as I am? Not one of these people seem to have the character to stand up to their convictions and promises to the Canadian people, federally, provincially or locally. promises mean nothing today. I sure wish we could recall these people as soon as they are caught in a lie.

KC
said

I spent 6 years in the army. People have to understand that the role of a soldier is not to question a mission but to get behind it. There is a reason the military recruit young men, they are impressionable and can be molded to obey command. Of cause soldiers support this mission its the culture and environment they are in. The military institutions are masters at stamping out decent, if they were not soldiers would refuse to fight. All soldiers who engage in active duty are proud, they are heroic and deserve respect. In the military you are trained to win, but this war we will never win, many before have tried and all have failed. It is time to face reality and bring our troops back with dignity. This war is costing us billions$$$. To compare it to civilian life, would we invest $$$$$$ in a company that was in a dying industry and was insolvent and managed by corrupt executives???? of cause not. Investing Billions in this war is like that. Lets put emotions and political doctrine aside and be realistic. Save our troops and invest the Billions in our economy where it is dearly needed.

Diane from Hamilton
said

Does anyone not realize this is really not our "war" and its time we simply brought our troops home? As this article points out - there are a lot of troops already trained. Why not channel the resources to non military aid?? ppl need to eat, kids need school...far more important.

Mike Webster, Mississauga
said

The usual suspects around here need to get a grip. There is no need for a vote because the decision to deploy the military and/or send us to war is NOT a decision for parliament. Constitutionally, only the government (meaning the executive - the PM and cabinet) can order the military to war. Parliament (the legislative branch) does not have any say in the matter, In fact, the only recourse parliament has is to defeat the government. Previous votes have been held either as a courtesy or for the purpose of obtaining political cover. Harper could order the troops to continue their combat mission and even extend it without holding a vote because, as the Prime Minister and the head of the cabinet, he has that power. The division of powers between the branches of government is very clearly set out in our constitution. It makes it very clear that matters of national policy are decided by the executive and not by parliament. Parliament's role is to debate and pass legislation, not set policy. Remember, parliament is not the government.

Ann Brady
said

Prime Minister Harper has once again redefined democracy and tossed it to the wind.

Esprit de Corps' Scott Taylor is right in saying that Afghanies need training for "...carpenters, electricians, teachers, doctors," and not for more military personnel.

My son-in-law is among those brave men and women serving in Afghanistan, now. Canada wants her sons and daughters home - as promised - in 2011.

Peter K
said

I'm just curious ? How many troops will Protugal be sending ? They won the seat on the security council .

Stuart in Cold Lake
said

What exactly is military analyst Scott Taylor's experience or background to even question this Government? Is he a over educated University anaylst with no life experience or is he a ex-Corporal with friends in government places? Honestly what makes his opinion worthy of all this media attention? What I can tell you though is there is too many Liberals verse Conservatives and not enough Canadians looking out for Canadians for me!

I Kennedy, St. John's
said

I think a lot of people here are missing one of the most obvious merits of this combat vs. training debate - the cost!Regardless of whether or not the executive brach of government can conduct training missions without parliamentary approval, this is NOT your usual NATO or other ally training execise. This mission will remain tremendously expensive - and compared to other training missions will in fact top out as the most expensive as we continue to spend billions of dollars in Afghanistan.I would think that the cost alone would have even the most ardent conservatives suggesting a vote is warranted, but instead we see on this message board the usual partisan bickering as conservatives run away from their fiscally prudent history.A vote is warranted in this case - the only reason not to is if you think you will lose and that in itself isn't very democratic.

Brenda
said

@ Mike in Central Ontario, what was yesterday for if Canada is not a country of warriors. I think you should read some history of the Canadian military. Maybe you should start at the Boar War moving to WWI then maybe WWII and also lets not forget the Korean War. O yes. I would like to tell you that we are not just a peace keeping nation as I had a father and 5 uncles who fought in both WWII and the Korean War. SO PLEASE STOP SAY CANADA IS ONLY A PEACE KEEPING NATION. You insult our veterans with BS like that. I fully support the PM in this move and lets not forget that the Canadian people elected him to make these decisions for us.

karl
said

Is anyone thinking what I am thinking!! This is political suicide by Harper. There will be debate which is totally going to kill this minority government. There may not be a vote on this and Harper will force this decision through, but if a vote on another issue comes forward soon then the opposition may bring a no confidence decision and then make this a referendum, which given the overwhelming number of people in this country who want this war to end for Canada, the Harper government will fall big time. Looks like Iggy will be the new prime minister of Canada within 6 months. Time to remove Bush politics from Canada. Let the public outrage begin.

Soldier
said

Instead of worring what Canadian civilians want, or what government want, i think we should ask the men and women that are fighting so hard for what they believe in, or the families of the brave fallen soldiers that sacrificed their blood to improve live somewhere other than home. These soldiers should have never been put there in the first place, but now that they are in, they cannot leave. Why is this even being questioned, if we do withdraw troops now, they'll eventually be going back to finish what they started. Why should they all have fought and or died in vain, just so a political party can gain popularity. This should not be a political subject, just yesterday we were remembering the fallen soldiers of our past, and already today all you armchair political scientist have forgotten everything just for the chance to hear your own voice!

pyroguy99
said

So the day after we remember those who gave the supreme sacrifice to ensure our freedom, rights and DEMOCRACY, the PM decides that maybe democracy isn't such a necessity after all - in fact it can be a bit of a bother.

Josh
said

This mission is behind the wire people, it is not a combat mission, its a training one. That means no search and destroy missions, that means no leaving the base for combat reasons, that means they are going to be there to TRAIN people.I don't know why you people don't understand that.I am proud that Mr. Harper has done this. Reading some of you comments about how its unfair to the troops and how we should "bring them home" because you don't like troops dying.News flash people the troops want to be there. They have trained for it for years. They know the risks they signed up for it, no one forced them.What happened to the days when Canada was know as a country of tough lumber jacks?What have we become? Run when the fight gets tough? I bet most of you that want the troops home don't even know some one in the Forces.....Breaks my heart to know that this is what my country has come to.....

Retired Captain in Dartmouth
said

It might interest everyone to know, that our forces were involved in the traing of indigenous forces BEFORE the decision was taken by Paul Martin to go to Khandahar. This is a very key element of any counter insurgency strategy. These forces are best trained in their own operating environment under the conditions that they will be operating in. So far as the politics is concerned, no Prime MInister should be compared someone of the likes of Adolf Hitler...one should seriously question the mental make up of the author of such a comment. Secondly, no...Mr. Harper does not need Parliamentry approval to do this , as has been pointed out by a previous poster...Mr. Ignatieff, Jack Layton and Mr. Douceppe, would want a vote everytime our duly elected Prime MInister would want to use the bathroom....... and people wonder exactly how our international credibility is continually damaged ???? Ripping up signed contracts as an example, for equipment necessary to defend this country is hardly a sound basis to formulate a nations defence policy..

DIEGO LINDSAY
said

Now that Mr. Harper has taken over the mantel of the "Decider" from Bush maybe he can explain to the citizens of Canada what he considers success in this ten year war? It is important only for the fact both Canada and the United States have never fought a war this long and have required to increase taxes to pay for it, amazing.

Peter in MB
said

Correct me if I am wrong but was there mot a vote on this last year and at that time the opposition parties especially the liberals were saying the a 100% pull out in 2011 would be irresponsible on Canada�s part. And would undo lots of the work we have done? I do recall the liberals and iggy were the ones suggesting we stay for a few years to train the local army. Iggy must be suffering from his short term selective liberal memory again.

Elias Nasrallah
said

To John in Halifax, N.S: First of all, it is spelled Fuhrer. Learn to use a dictionary. Second of all, you are referring to Mr. Harper as being a dictator? Let me educate you John in Halifax, Canada never had dictators. Canada has Prime Ministers. So I hope you understand that calling our Prime Minister Fuhrer, you are calling him a dictator for which Canada does not have and that is an insult to those who respect our leaders. By the way John in Halifax, a dictator (Fuhrer), is a person who rules with oppression�.. Now, MHB states that 70% of Canadians want out of Afghanistan. Also, that we are sucking up to the Americans. We, as Canadians do not need to suck up to Americans. We have a leader that could make our choices for us. As for your statistic for 70% Canadians wanting out of Afghanistan? What about your Fearless, flipflop of a leader Mr. Iggy? Did you know that 79% of Canadians wanted the Gun registry abolish and Mr. Iggy still wanted to keep the useless registry? What about Mr. Iggy listening to the voice of Canadians. Now, let us not forget that Mr. Iggy agrees to the training mission that Mr. Harper is only TALKING about. It is plain and simple: You guy�s don�t like Mr. Harper! You will lie and make up stories to try and make him look bad. All you Lefty, Liberal lovers don�t have anything to offer this wonderful country or ours. Iggy has no vision for Canada and he will do anything to try to get a vote. By the way, Since 2006, the Harper Government has been in power as a minority government. That is 4 years and counting��As a minority government for 4 years, they must be doing something right! Right?

Tim Lee
said

There are several questions that I would need answered before deciding. First, do the Afghan people want us there? Are they willing to accept their share of responsibility for the success of a joint effort? Are they in agreement with our values on human rights? Also, what time goals have been set in terms of self government, security, education, etc? All the best intentions in the world won't help with the help and will of the Afghan people.

MHB
said

During the war on Iraq, Germany was officially against the invasion. On the ground, German agents and spies were mobilized to support the invasion. Western governments say one thing and something completely different will happen. I am not surprised if the actual mission our government is committed to is actually a combat mission but they will never say that. Otherwise, why not bring the trainees to Canada and ensure the safety of Canadians!

Bob in Ottawa
said

I was under the distinct impression that this was a democracy! Harper what ever happened to the right of Parliment to vote on matters that effect our Nation? You can not just out of the blue extend this so called mission without answering to Parlment and the Nation.Truly Sir you and your kind are not fit to sit in the House and let a real Canadian with Canadian values represent us. Not you and your values that are more in line with the USA than us.

Janet james
said

Yes indeed,Our dictator has spoken, and we are supposed to just choke on it. I want our troops out of there, but the problem is I would die before I would elect Ignatieff Liberals into power. Only thing different he would do is separate Quebec, and then send the rest of us off to "train" Interesting considering how the States explained their role in Vietnam in the early years.

Bill in Calgary
said

Having watched the behaviors of the contrarian�s Squiggy and Harpy, throughout this session of Parliament, I�m inclined to support our Prime Minister�s decision. It would just be a waste of time and resources to give them a platform for their grandstanding antics. Decisions have to be made in a reasoned manner, and it�s obvious these two clowns have nothing to add to that end.

GHW
said

A parliamentary vote would only reflect the partisan view of the party leaders and not the will of the people. Remember the gun registry vote!

Lyn
said

One comment to all - remember this next time you vote!

Dennis R
said

As I looked on at all our veterians yesterday and as I read the postings on this issue I sue am glad that the people had no say in the WW1, WW11 and all the others.

Just think what would have happened had Canada said we have lost more than 200 men and we are going to pull out and go home, we would all be speking German now.

Why do you think we fought all those wars in other countries? so we would not have to fight them here! In WWII the germans were up as far as Quebec City in the StLawernce (NO JOKE FOLKS)..

You sit here and complain but never as what the grunt on the ground wants to do, you speak against our Prime Minister but say nothing about the Women and Children being killed over there, about women being stoned to death and on and on, OH YA that is over there and not your problem right your IDIOTS.

Yes Canada is a peace full nation but we are as well a nation who stands up for those who can't do so for them selves and we come to their aid.

For the first time in Canadian history we are now know as a cowardious nation and a nation who has turned it's back on Afganistan and all our alies who still need our help.

But even more discusting is we have now spit on the graves of all those who gave their all for Canada and the Afgan nation. What should we put on their head stones, I fought and died for Canada but did not know their were cowards but I hope God wil forgive them.

Further proof we just took all their pension away from them and offerd them a lump sum payment of 267,000 Gutless Wonders!!!!!!!!!!!

Michael
said

Much as I would like to see our military out of this war zone, the troops themselves are committed to the good work they are doing. I would be willing to grant a temporary extension but want the government to know that this does have to end and not continue to prop up Afghanistan forever in this insidious Islamic insurgency.

lc
said

The bright bulbs claiming that a training mission can be performed in the middle of a war zone must get your illusion of combat from MASH reruns.A child can see through the hypocrisy.Yet as has become customary we have the Harperites arguing nonsense,.The partisan babble that has taken over this board has made it irrelevant to all but neocon/globalist loyalist.

Proff. Pie Cart
said

Typical Harper. He believes strongly in democracy except when the outcome is expected to differ from his right opinion then democracy is a nusance.

Tim
said

It is funny how some lefties are comparing to Harper to Hitler, yet they fail to mention that Chretien committed Canadian forces to Afghanistan WITHOUT a parliamentary vote: "In September 2001 Minister of National Defence Art Eggleton advised Governor General Adrienne Clarkson to authorize more than 100 Canadian Forces members serving on military exchange programs in the United States and other countries to participate in U.S. operations in Afghanistan." I guess that selective memory issue where Liberal supporters only remember certain things comes into play over and over.

RECON
said

@mike in ontario - As a serving member of the army thats lost 8 comrades on last my tour it sickens me that the majority of Canadians still view the DND as a "Peace Keeping Force" In fact it's quite the opposite, we are a war fighting army with peace keeping capabilities. Our army is like no other I've ever worked with based on these characteristics. Peace would be great, unfortunately unless you've served and shed blood for this country and it's people, your opinions are rather unintelligent....

henry thunder bay
said

..what conroversy ??? ..we have known for a long time that our troops will stay there to train the Afgans..

Pierre from Orleans
said

I agree but disagree with bringing the trainees to Canada to be trained. My question is this - If trainees do come to Canada, who is going to pay to gring them here???

The answer of course is us taxpayers.

Tim
said

The government's job is to govern and not try to appease every whiny leftie out there. Holding a parliamentary vote will just allow those whiny people a chance to whine some more. In other words, opposition by slander which the Liberals practice very well.

Nolan Moore
said

We should be staying there until the job is done, or at least till all agree the need is no longer there. It is not the Canadian way to say, "Oh well we can't win, so we'll leave." Canada must help to build that nation.

Enigma21
said

Wow.. some posts here just baffle me. We elected a PM to do the job of a PM so let him do his damn job! Canada is at WAR now and it's senseless to go through delay after delay that only handcuffs the troops in the field. Does anyone remember how Vietnam was lost? It was BS politics like this that limited the effectiveness of the troops. Oh and by the way.. Canada is NOT a nation of peacekeepers. Never has been. Read some history folks, Canada has a much longer and prouder history as brave warfighters than in some useless peacekeeping role. Get over it.

Joyce
said

Shame to the hatred spewed in this comment section which is out of line, by these following usages of description.. Fuhrer and Hehr, is hatred aligning our Prime Minister with the Nazi Hitler Era. I don't need to go into full details, as I have done so many times before, because I and many others , have a better understanding, because many of us have lived through it, and the reason why we " Remember our Vets"."We remember our Vets " who fought valiantly alongside other Nations to free the world of such an inhumane person called Hitler, on Nov. 11th every year. 'Lest we Forget".

Bob,Calgary,Alberta
said

Debate,debate,debate and talk ,talk,talk. We have had that kind of nonsense for the last three years with the Eastern lefties and the separatist hordes doing everything they can to hold up action on anything and everything. The country has become almost ungovernable. This is a decision that the Harper government should make on their own as part of the normal administration of the country. If you were to ask members of our military whether they believed we could help the NATO effort by training the Afgans I believe they would want to get on with the job so let's do it. I am so fed up with the stupidity and self-serving attitudes of our MPs from the three opposition parties. Over 150 of our brave soldiers have died for the Afgan people so do our part to finish the job. If the effort fails sobeit but at least we will have tried our best.

Sean
said

Lets stay there & finish the job we started. If we just drop everything & walk, then what have the dead died for? Now is the most important time to make sure when we do leave, a difference was done. I'm not interested in our country being a failure.

BABE
said

They need to diside to stay or leave quickly, if they vote that could take mounths, has anyone watched question peried?? I think its should be upto the TROOPS and their familys if they want to stay or leave.

Mitch
said

I have been to Afghanistan on three rotations since 03. I am going on my fourth shortly and I will tell you, if you have not been, that the use of the word "rebuilding" is complete B.S. If you want to help Afghanistan with mechanics, electricians, tradesmen and academics then you should send all the Afghans living in Canada back to their country because it needs them, but why would you ever leave a civilized nation like Canada for a backwards hole like Afghanistan. John from Halifax, if you are going to liken Canada’s PM to a 20th Century Dictator at least learn to spell Fuhrer.For those of you not in the Profession of Arms in Canada it may surprise you to know that there is a difference between ceasing combat operations and secession.

Jamie, Ottawa
said

Was there a vote to pull out in 2011? I can't remember. If so, and that plan is being changed, then there should probably be another vote. That's how democracy works right?

ottawa soldier
said

John in Halifax...your comment is disgusting and an insult to every man and woman who has ever served in the military of this nation. Having said that, as a soldier, I will still forefit my life to defend your right to say it. So many Canadian soldiers have shed blood so that you can have the right to spew your vile hatred. Enjoy your rights to free speech John...it is after all your right!

NS
said

All Afghan bases and Fobs have been repeatly attacked by Taliban.. all of them. Therefore, a planned "Inside the wire" 3 year mission is still going to give us more combat Veterans, and the Goverment has already stole 2/3s of our present day veteran pensions since 2005. If Veteran Affairs cannot afford to pay pensions, maybe we need to stop creating veterans.

Island Man
said

The Dictator has spoken or he'll Prorogue again..Harper should watch what is happening in BC...People have had enough of Dictatorships in Canada. Bring the troops home so they can use their big boot toes to boot Harper out of office.

Jeremy
said

well training is training and I agree that they need people to train trades in Afghanistan. Does one not think the Canadian Army does this.I'm a Mechanic in the Army and yes we trained people how to repair vehicles. plumping, carpentry but thats different than what you think it is in Canada, electrical, you name it we can train it. Ummm people that can't read and write thats trickier but still do able and the Canadian Army has the resources to do that if that is the focus.

S in Ottawa
said

This angers me and I almost want to cry.. Why Oh Why do we bother.. Harper..Ugghh.. Nevermind it won't matter anyway.
John, Halifax,NS Said it best. "Our Furor" indeed.

Cynical
said

@ Angry Tory: our form of government means that when we vote in a candidate, we authorize her/him to speak on our behalf. However, party politics being what they are, our vote effectively gives the governing party the right to make decisions on our behalf, even if we disagree with them. In this case, our PM is exercising the power WE have him. If you want more control for the citizens, then we need a law that would allow for the recall of MP's; Good luck getting THAT through the House!

Bob in Calgary
said

Shouldn't we also vote on what cereal we have in the morning?

Stu from London
said

@what the troops want...you and everyone with your attitiude need to understand that the Canadian Armed Forces are funded by tax payer dollars. Our military does not generate any revenue, it costs money. That being said, with respect to the opinions of the soldiers, the people who pay their salary, the tax payers, as represented by their MP's should have the final say as to what does and does not happen with our military vis a vis our tax dollars. If you do not respect the majority opinion, that's really too bad. I don't mind the idea of the training, however you know there is going to be hell to pay when the first post-July 2011 solider death is announced. Stay tuned for that.

Jeannette
said

The Dictator Speaks! Well, lets see how the Canadians Vote's!

CdnArmyGuy
said

I see alot of comments like most Canadian's want our troops back, and how to pull them out now, do this and do that. These comments were never heard from in WW1, WW2, and Korea. It was with those troops doing what they did so people of Canada can say what they are saying now. Why is it that the people of Canada don't listen to what the troops are saying, don't we have a voice. I love how some of the views come from comments written or stated by this station (as Liberal supportive as it is). I don't see the need for vote, we are upholding our NATO agreement, if you want us out that could put us out of NATO, for not uphold our agreement, and then the fight could come to Canada, then the public will be screaming "WHERE IS THE ARMY TO PROTECT US". I have been to Afghanistan and will be going back to do my duty to my country, to help those who cannot help themselves, to help rebuild schools, hospitals, villages (with running water for the first time ever). Just remember it was this Army that saved countless lives in the Floods in 97, Ice Storm in 98, Fires almost every year, etc... Please just support us allow us to do what we do best, and hear our voice. The troops got big voices and will let people know when enough is enough, but today is not that day.

chris
said

Worst Prime Minster ever!

CMQ
said

This decision by Harper will allow Iggy a free pass to say anything he wants without having to back it by being present in a vote in parliment. No wonder Iggy has been grandstanding because he can spout the same old same old without being held accountable. Let's hear what he now has to say, which I am sure it will be lots and all over the map!

Sick of Canadians
said

Let us re-cap:1. Harper will do what ever he wants when it comes to Israel regardless of what Canadians want.2. Harper will do what ever he wants when it comes to Afghanistan regardless of what Canadians want. 3. Harper will do whatever he wants with my tax dollars including but not limited to giving away billions to rich world leaders at useless summits and to buy guns and killing weaponry from American military companies. In conclusion, Harper will do whatever he wants because he know's he does not have the mandate, the support of the Canadian people. Harper has a Superiority Complex with a minority government and therefore has declared himself ruler of the world. The tanks should be rolling through your hometown any minute now.

Rola
said

Thank you Master Harper.

PV
said

As Curly from the 3 stooges would say... oh, a dictatorship, eh? Nyut Nyut!

Homer
said

Bring our troops home and then get them to train the Afghan troops in Canada.

simon
said

Mr. Harper is absolutely right. He has, as prime minister, no legal requirement to put to vote sending our troops into war. As he says in the article, the vote is to give the mission an air of legitimacy. The question at hand however, is whether or not the next phase of the mission will be only for training. It seems that out troops are in a war zone and simply re-naming the mission as a technical one, or a training one, will not take away from the fact that it is still a war zone. Our troops will still be in harms way. Frankly, Afghanistan could drag on for decades. What we need is a clear, concise strategy to get our troops out of there. It appears that we have a consensus among our parties leaders (Harpy and Iggy at least) that there needs to be a phased pull out, that consists of training Afghan police and soldiers. That is a point I agree with. However, the Prime Minister does seem to have a lack of direction at the moment though. Last year the line was drawn firmly in the sand about ending the mission, now there is a training mission. I think that a clear exit strategy is needed that is articulated to Parliament and debated in full.

Lorne
said

To those for and against the extension - voice your opinion at the polls during the next election.@ what the troops want - sacrifices have been made in the way of deaths and injuries - the fact is that Nato forces will never win this war - that is reality!!!!!!! Why continue to sacrifice our troops?Look at Viet Nam, Iraq - US led forces have lost every battle and have pulled out.Why? Because the people in these countries accept death as a way opf life.

LS
said

Our Prime Minister is exactly right. There is no need for a vote in parliament on this issue. For the unbalanced comments about us not being a caring nation, I DARE you to speak with our troops who actually serve in Afghanistan. They cared enough to put everything on the line to help a nation and they see the progress made even if most people fail to learn enough to make intelligent comments and NOT based on partisan politics. Those who rant about caring and being war-mongers, I dare you to serve..I have and so does my son. You have the ability to spout off because others are willing to serve and gave you those rights.

Paul ~ Kitchener
said

It just baffles any normal thinking mind that all this rhetoric and bambling from so many mentally challenged individuals is mind boggling to the majority.Our Prime Minister, (Dictator to some - GOOD !), he needs to talk to no one, sitting in the house on his Governments decision for "Training Assistance" after our "COMBAT WITHDRAWL".That is why the Rt. Honourable Steven Harper is "Prime Minister" and doing what is right for our nation. 2011 will see This Prime Minister, still Prime Minister, (with a majority yet), & the other coalition pad jumpers, can continue to show their ignorance in opposition, with their verbal diahrea.

Jim
said

Doug @ BC
said

While he may be right, Harper always talks about the 'will of Parliament" and then ignores it. In a minority the will of parliament has to include the opposition. As he represents a minority he does not have the mandate to act alone.

voice for sanity
said

Bring the trainees to our bases in Canada and train them to be the trainers, makes sense to me. We are still spitting out the dust of the Regan and Bush administrations. This is Canada not a country with visions of imperialism.

What the troops want
said

How about we ask the troops what they want. Not the "70%" of Canadians who couldn't find Kandahar on a map let alone form a responsible and informed opinion about the mission in Afghanistan.I know for a fact that the majority of service members believe in this mission and want to see it through to it's end. We had no problem staying in Boznia well after the fighting and stabilization had concluded. Let's see this through so that the sacrifces made have not been in vain.

Al
said

To " Mike in Central Ontario".No one is keeping you in central Ontario. You are free to leave whenever you wish if you are ashamed to be a Canadian. It's because we are a peace loving nation that we are in Afghanistan in the first place. We are fighting a tyranny and trying to protect innocent citizens. You are also free to try for citizenship in Southern Afghanistan if you don't feel Canada is doing the right thing.

Steve in Manotick
said

Once again Heir Harper has spoken and forces his will on the country. What happened to democracy in Canada Its time for an election

Abiding Citizen
said

Intelligent Canadians voted for the Conservatives and we've given them a mandate. Thank you Prime Minister Stephen Harper for having the courage to stand behind your convictions. Kudos! As to the Liberal flakes that argue and waffle over every single issue that comes up...take off, eh! (NDP = who are they again? Bloc = a non-entity for Canada.) Majority Conservative government is on its way.

Kevin
said

My my my people...we elect them to govern and when they do some of you kick up a big stink. And talk about hate crime - likening Harper to Hitler; I wonder how some of you get off with your comments. Talk about ad hominen...if you can't argue against someone just resort to name calling and slander - yeah that's real mature. So many of you on thesidelines reading news falshes and do not know much more of the intricate details of foriegn policy and make your armchair decisions...incredible. You actually sow more of your hatred based on ignorance, than your sage advice based on knowledge.

Luigi
said

Don't train too much, lest they turn against us in the future and use the tactics we teach them against us. Just get out of there. Remember the US when they trained Bin-Laden and his friends in Afghanistan to fight the Soviets?

Prof. Pye Chartt
said

The children in the Opposition have already expressed their basic support. (But, of course, if you don't coddle them, and succumb to their infantile political needs, they'll throw a little temper tantrum.) I'm surprised that PM Harper and his Conservatives don't require the approval of Iggy, Jack, and Gilles to go to the bathroom. This is an executive matter, bitter control freaks. In a parliamentary democracy, even with "minority" standing, the PM isn't some neutered pansy. Stand aside, boys and girls, and let the adults govern. As a therapeutic necessity for your psycho-political dysfunction, call our PM a "Fuhrer" (not "Furor," John in Halifax) and/or a "Dictator" as often as you wish. Such juvenile behavior only makes clearer the reason why Canadians regard the Liberal party, and leader Michael Ignatieff, as a Not-Ready-For-Prime-Time Player in Parliament. (Feel free to grow up any time.)

John
said

Not every governmental decision needs a Parliament vote. Otherwise, the system would bog down indefinitely and nothing would get done. The Canadian Constitution is clear. It is the duly elected Government's decision.

Mike from Halifax
said

At John from Halifax, I see you from your post that no matter what the PM does your going to be slamming him, you must be a liberal supporter. Let me point out that past PMs have never gone to a vote when our troops have been committed for peace keeping tours, so why do you think PM Harper should ask for a vote on this decision. As he stated if the troops were being deploied for combat yes but they are not going into combat. O yes, you want Iggi to have his chance to stand up and babble something or other. I agree with the PM, lets stop all the fighting among the parties and for once support our troops as a unified Parliament. I feel the statements of yours calling the PM our furor is out of line, let me remind you that the people of Canada voted PM Harper in as the PM to speak for us and if you don�t like what he is saying, well that is too bad and come next election you can try to vote him out, but I would not hold my breath on that one. As least not with Iggi and Jack as party leaders.

Mike in Central Ontario
said

Other than age and stripe there is no difference between Harper and Chretien. Both rule(d) by and iron fist. Why should we ask Canadians what they feel, we only pay taxes and work to pay bills. Could it be Harper needs something written in the History books? Unfortunately his system isn't working because he doesn't realize that Canada is a Peace Keeping Nation - not a warring arm or faction of the US. This is what infuriates Canadians. Stop the killing machine and give diplomacy a chance.The world is a 0 (zero) class society and clearly has little chance of becoming a Class-1 society because C1 requires loving your neighbour and that cannot happen with building military might. Every Western Government today has a Military Dept but none have a Dept of Peace.I'm almost at the point of being ashamed of being Canadian because we have lost our heart as a caring nation and our spirit of Peace Keeping. At this rate we will always be C0. It's time to change our politicians and reboot!

Mike S. (Montreal)
said

huh? No need to vote? What backwards country does he come from? Oh right...Canada. Can we kick this yahoo out of office please?

V.C.
said

Technical and training missions eh?What exactly does Mr Harper think our current rotation of troops is participating in... and how is it that no discussion of this extension is required? Who did our Prime Minister promise us to this time

Jim in Ottawa
said

Agreed.

mandosa
said

Dear John in Halifax,In case you didn't read the article that occasioned your rant, let me quote some parts for your comprehension:"Harper added however that he wouldn't stand in the way of attempts by the opposition to discuss the extension." "Harper noted that the Liberals have been in favour of extending the mission, so Canadian troops can help train Afghan forces."""If they have any specific ideas they want to share, I'm not resistant to having debates on that matter in the House of Commons," Harper said."But I suppose those details just get in the way of an opportunity for free publicized anti-Harper spewage.

Angry Tory
said

How dare any government commit our troops to a war zone WITHOUT the approval of the people. I thought this was a democracy? Harper is not the dictator of Canada - although he clearly thinks he is.Time to through this bum out.

Mario - Rockland
said

I can't stand this government however he has a point!

MHB
said

No, Fearless Leader! You do need a vote. You know well that all polls show that over 70% of Canadians want out of Afghanistan. You are staying there thus endangering Canadian lives to make a favour for your American friends!

Alan Harris
said

????????? A war zone is a war Zone and Combat Role or not ,our troops are still targets and at a high risk.For what?We did our job and time to leave.Harper has no rights to allow this without consulting Parliment.I only wish he had a son or daughter serving and maybe he would not be so bold!!!!!!

Gregory Boureau
said

The Prime Minister is wright, this will be a non-combat role. If it was a combat role, than yes he would need to bring it before parliment.He is the Prime Minster and he makes the choice, than he will have to answer for it, but I think this is an easy call to make. Canada has done alot of these types of missions in the past, and the Liberals also made these dessions when they were in power.

Allan Eizinas
said

A vote would necessitate a discussion and debate. This PM does not like discussions and debates. Besides, the NDP is slowly creeping up in the polls, the majority of Canadians want this mission ended when it was promised - as do the NDP. This PM has no intention of giving the opposition a popular platform from which to speak.

Redneck Albertan
said

John in Halifax, I'm sure you meant "Fuhrer", as in leader and not "furor", as in rage or uproar. Either way, I would love to read a rational argument from the Harper Haters as to how a man who leads a minority government can be reasonably referred to as a dictator. Anyone? Regardless, this is not something that should go to a vote. As the Fuhrer (well, he is a leader), Steven Harper does have a very valid point in not putting the decision to keep Canadian troops in Afghanistan to a vote, especially these days, when it seems opposition parties will vote down anything where the consequences will not cause parliament to fall, regardless whether it is good or bad for us. Childish and pathetic, but those are the best people available to represent us in this country.......ugh!

sph
said

Does Harper really believe it is a technical, or training reason to leave our troops in the world's hell hole? It is just combat wrapped up under the pretence of training. I wonder if the Taliban will say "hmmm...don't shoot at those Canadian soldiers...they are just on a "training" mission." wink...wink...nod...nod.

Retired Captain Dartmouth
said

A very reasoned approach for ANy Prime MInister.....remember..it was Paul Martin's government that changed the venue to Khandahar.....seems Mr. Ignatieff wants things both ways as usual.....Mr. Ignatieff.....you are not the Prime Minister!! Seems you oppose everything no matter how dubious your merits are..!! A Trainng mission..?? That would indeed be the responsible thing to do......The rememberance of the 158 service members sacrifice deserves nothing less!.

John, Halifax, NS
said

And our furor speaks again. I make the rules, no need for parliament to vote, it's not like everyone of them are equal to me, an elected MP....