Harper calls Turmel's Bloc membership 'disappointing'

Prime Minister Stephen Harper at McMaster University says science and technology are critical to Canada's future success. He also says Hamilton is lucky to have one of the leading research and teaching institutions.

CTV News Channel: Nycole Turmel, NDP

The interim leader of the NDP says it's normal that people might question her over her past ties to the Bloc Quebecois but that she's a federalist and that she will lead the NDP as best as she can until Jack Layton is better.

CTV News Channel: Richard Madan in Ottawa

NDP interim leader Nycole Turmel may receive some cold reception as she launches a major event in Newfoundland on Wednesday. This comes after news that she was card-carrying member of two Quebec separatist groups.

Watch: See all Videos in the Player

A A | Email This Email | Print | Comments (112) Tweet

Prime Minister Stephen Harper speaks at McMaster University in Hamilton, Ont., on Wednesday, August 3, 2011. (Nathan Denette / THE CANADIAN PRESS)

View Larger Image

CTV News.ca Staff

Date: Wed. Aug. 3 2011 9:08 PM ET

Prime Minister Stephen Harper says it is "disappointing" that the NDP's interim leader was once a member of the Bloc Quebecois, but Nycole Turmel said while she regrets her association with the separatist party she will not step down from her post.

Controversy has swirled around Turmel since she confirmed Tuesday that she was a card-carrying member of the Bloc for about four years before turning in her card in January. She is also a member of the provincial Quebec Solidaire, but says she intends to let her membership lapse.

"I think it's very disappointing," Harper said when asked about Turmel by reporters while handing out scholarships at McMaster University in Hamilton, Ont. "I don't know that I have a lot to say but I do think Canadians will find this disappointing. I think Canadians expect that any political party that wants to govern the country be unequivocally committed to this country. I think that's the minimum Canadians expect."

Turmel has hit back hard at her critics since news of her political affiliations broke, saying she joined the Bloc to support her friend, former Bloc MP Carole Lavallee. Lavallee held the seat in Saint-Bruno--Saint-Hubert from 2004 until her defeat in the May election.

In an interview with CTV News Channel Wednesday, Turmel would not respond directly to Harper's remarks. However, she maintained her previous assertions that she is a federalist, pointing out that she voted against Quebec's separation in the last referendum.

Turmel also said that despite the uproar, she won't step aside from her post saying, "I've been elected to the job. I will do it."

"I regret the signing of the card…but that doesn't prevent me (from doing) my job," she said. "I have the confidence of Jack Layton, I have the confidence of my party."

When asked about her affiliation with Quebec Solidaire, Turmel said she became involved with the party because there is no provincial wing of the NDP in Quebec, and she is interested in many of the social causes that the party espouses, such as affordable housing and other anti-poverty measures.

"That's my background, so it's normal that I (would) work with people who have a social background," she said.

NDP officials have also defended Turmel, saying she has been a member of the party for more than 20 years and served as an associate president in the 1990s. Spokesperson Karl Belanger also pointed out that she co-chaired an NDP forum on Canada's future.

After a career in union advocacy, Turmel was elected the New Democrat MP for the Quebec riding of Hull-Aylmer in the spring election as part of an NDP surge in the province that vaulted the party to official Opposition status, essentially wiping out the Bloc. Shortly afterward, she was unanimously elected caucus chair.

"Quebec said it," Turmel said of the election results. "Quebec told us they didn't want the Bloc Quebecois party anymore, they wanted a federalist party. They voted for us and we'll do the job we were elected for."

Comments are now closed for this story

W.
said

Gee, doesn't anyone remember when Harper came from a party that the rest of Canada wasn't too fond of? How soon we forget.Tell him to look at his own history. He belonged to a group that wanted to do away with medicare. Guess he can change but he doesn't want other people to be able to change.

Ashley
said

I don't understand why Harper is commenting at all? There is no election for four years, and even then he doesn't need this to keep the NDP at bay (unlikely they'll be seeing the PMO). She's also an interim leader, she's not out to change the world just keep it alive until Layton gets better.If he wants to do something productive, maybe he should ban all parties that don't represent the interests of the entire country, aka the Bloc themselves.

the other Len
said

After reading the comments to this artcle it seems like all the CBC commenters are complaining on CTV and vice versa.

Patricia
said

Be open, be honest, tell the truth and nothing will come back to haunt you. Jack Layton did no favors for the NDP by putting Turmel in as interim leader. He is pandering to his overwhelming number of French MP's, many of whom have separatist leanings. Perhaps his illness clouded his judgment. It was bad enough to have to pay the BLOC to sit in the House but to pay sovereignist NDPers is just as humiliating. I thank God every day for our majority Conservative Government and Stephen Harper.

Prof. Pye Chartt
said

Hmm. Belonged to TWO sovereigntist parties (one up until yesterday and the other until January), but, alas, not a separatist bone in her body. Okay. Let's all get mad at Conservative PM Harper! Sounds good. (Judging by the phony righteous indignation from the mouth-frothing anti-Conservative crowd you'd think that he scheduled a news conference today to table his sentiments rather than simply have answered an expected political question from the media.) After all, we just KNOW that had the separatist shoe been flopping on his foot, neither a certain Liberal leader (Rae) nor a certain NDP leader (Layton) would be taking the easy political shot. No way. Yeah; for sure.

Give it up already!
said

The hypocrisy continues. Didn't Bouchard lead the Block and take us to the brink of separation? Wasn't he a Tory? Harper's fake disappointment is disappointing.

Saskmike
said

I'm sure glad I didn't vote for this REFORMER. ENUFF said.

Sara Landriault
said

What was wrong with Peter Stoffer? He has been loyal to NDP for a very long time and he was pushed aside for a bloc quebecois?

A spade a spade
said

It seems like NDP and former Bloc posting here today........as the liberal posters are quietly jubilant (hoping this will bring their party back).

Robert B
said

I for one am glad that she is temp leader of the NDP it shows that the NDP can and will form unholy alliances and visa versa!!!! Anything to get to try to get into power, It kind of backfired this time , there's a majority government in power....! No alliances this time eh?

Howard B
said

Reading the comments on this subject scares me deeply. There is so much hatred out there. Is there any wonder why there is so much violence in this land. What we read would suggest that there are many that are looking for a opportunity to do violence to another. May God help us!

JayRoc
said

Harper, who once advocated for Alberta separation, is "disappointed". What a hypocrite.

Paul ~ Kitchener
said

What a terrible pile of comments regarding our Prime Minister and the elected federal government. The greater majority of the terrible unjust comments against our Prime Minister are Liberals, N.D.P -ers & those with low I.Q's. Canada is alive and well, Canada is economically on solid ground , Canada is very active in the International Market place & alive on Social Justice the list goes on. These negative commentators need to look at what is really going on each day in Ottawa and they will be enlightened. A Seperatist is a Seperatist regardless of their rhetoric. Another leader that cannot speak the english language . I am glad Mr. Harper is funning Canada his way ! Go Mr. Prime Minister go !

Danny Dinosaur
said

PM Harper is disappointed? Steve, you did not have to lie on this one. Anyone with a brain bigger than a peanut knows that you are delighted by this news and certainly not disappointed. And yes Mr. Harper, you do have former Bloc members in your cabinet and you do make deals with separatists if it means you can gain more power. You could have taken the high road and stayed clear, but instead you chose to take a cheap shot. Great leadership. Even when Mr. Layton is out of the game due to illness, you chose to play dirty and lie.

Denyse
said

She was a Bloc Qu�becois once, she should not be trusted. I am sure that Jack won't let her stay on as the leader of his party. He is a great man and she will bring his party down.
I am so glad that the Bloc has disappeared so don't keep someone that will remind us of IT.

Paul Shilton
said

Speaking of disappointing, has anyone noticed that bridges are falling down in Quebec and Toronto doesn't have the cash to keep the libraries running while Harper plans to go ahead with 11 billion dollars in corporate tax cuts?

Elmer in BC
said

Mr Harper was asked a question and he answered. All of a sudden people are criticizing him for his opinion. Sheesh I am disappointed in the NDPs choice but it is up to the party. As for the anti Harper comments I guess a lot of people were never taught by their mother, "if you don't have anything nice to say don't say anything"!

charlie
said

Turmel - put up as leader by an NDP who didn't know (bad) or didn't appreciate the significance of her sepratist connections and how they would play with the rest of Canada.(worse), or didn;t care (worst). Not only did she join a party or parties whose aims she did not believe in, and hold membership for several years, she gave money to advance those aims she (now) says she did not believe in. One would think that somewhere, someone would have asked her before her appointment "Is there anything in your past which may be an embarassment to you or the Party?" Did she say no? Did anyone have the brains to ask? This is a self-inflicted would by the NDP. Another toe shot off by The Gang That Couldn't Shoot Straight (with apologies to Jimmy Breslin). If they keep this up, they will make the Liberals look competent.

asherah
said

Disappointing - is have a Right Wing Republican/Tea Baggage for Prime Minister of Canada!

jazz
said

Harper has said exactly what he should have said and nothing more. The NDP should have (and I believe did) recognize just who they now have as leader. This stunt is nothing more than a way to keep the Quebec vote and nothing more. Jack will be back and will have cemented his favour with the Quebecois for at least a decade because of it.

Isabelle, Montreal
said

So funny how politicians points at her as if they never jumped from one political view to another! People change, so what if she was pro-this and pro-that in the past? If we could not change our mind, that means Canada would always vote for the same politicians... that's not very democratic. And then they wonder how come young people dont want to jump into politic!! Dont you ever change your mind!! What is disappointing is the message that they send to the youth.

Fred Williams
said

I don't find it disappointing at all. Ms Turmel has done nothing yet as opposition leader so we have nothing on which to base a judgement. I am disappointed in Harper for so many reasons.

Larry A
said

I acknowledge people are passionate about their politics and I salute you for exercising your right to be heard. I have been around for many years and seen many Parties in power and many gentlemen representing those parties through good times and poor. Rhetoric is rhetoric and there will always be something someone does to complain about each and every day. I feel our current leader is doing both a good job in protecting us and representing us and I am proud of our Nation with all its complexities and freedoms.

NOT perfect
said

The tories won...why can't they begin doing WORK. Why the permanent campaign mode? There's no election...won't be for another 4 years! I dare anybody on this forum to look into their past and honestly not find a couple of things they did that they regret. What is the point of calling out hte NDP? Now that the Libs are castrated, Tories feel the need to castrate ALL opposition? Doesn't sound democratic to me. Sounds pretty vindictive and petty.

Sid in MTL
said

Its no more disappointing than Harper's secret membership in the Bush Club.

Chris
said

I find Harper's membership in the human race to be disappointing. So whats his point?

MMS MIKE
said

Harper was asked his opionion and he gave it. How stupid can the NDP be , didnt they think anyone would find out? I think she should step down as interim leader and let someone that cares about CANADA replace Mr. Layton for the time being. This is a no brainer...... Ooops sorry we are talking about politicians arent we.

Tired of the Hypocrisy of all Parties in Canada
said

And you think Stephen Harper cares- HARDLY.Just another negative for him to latch onto and bring the country down even further. He doesn't care what "he" does to Canada. I am not even sure he remembers it's a Democracy..............

GHW
said

Well if she�s not a separatist she�s a commie. Communism only works for the dictators that run it. Where�s J. Edgar Hoover when you need him?

pom
said

I am not a NDP nor ever voted for NDP. Now, if election up, I definitely will throw my support just to make sure Prime Minister Harper on the tight leash prevent him doing the damage to Canada as Bush jr Washington did to US.

opeongo66
said

Great....another pretend Canadian seeking control over the entire country. Didn't we just send one packing a few months ago? Along with his separatist buddy. So she is only a part time traitor to Canada. This is an improvement?!. How can you possibly support the destruction of Canada for four years, then say you love it enough to rule it? Enough is enough. The NDP claim that this is the same as Winston Churchill changing partys' is laughable. He didn't join the German's then come back did he? The BLOC was very clear on their mandate. What was good for Canada was no concern of theirs. Welcome back Liberal party.

Nick
said

Wasn't Harper the Reform Party Leader?

Ross
said

Wasn't Harper a member of the reform party who want to break away the western part of Canada. So who cares about the NDP as long as she can do the job they her along.

Ed2 from BC
said

Harper sure is a sleaseball. He knows how to dig deep for dirt. Wonder where he learned those kind of tactics? At George Dubyah's feet perhaps? Get on with running the country instead gossiping about than woman's past. You and yours have lots to bury as well. Ye who is without sin cast the first stone....I thought you were religious coming from the Reform party and the Bible belt of Southern Alberta.

David from Edmonton
said

Stevie, if you have no sin then feel free to cast the first stone.

Raymond B.
said

People may challenge Stephen Harper on a lot of fronts but his commitment to Canada is not one of them. How many of those calling him a hypocrite would like to see the NDP running the country, even if they were capable of doing so? Not many people I know. Canadians of every political stripe have the right to demand answers of Turmel and the NDP. The PM simply articulated the question we'd all ask if we had access to Turmel and the NDP.

Cal in Ottawa
said

Given that the NDP received most of their support in Quebec from those who previously support the BQ, is it really any surprise that members of the party are card carrying separatists? I said at the time of the election results that the eastern portion of the NDP were merely a re-named Bloc. I rest my case. I also thought that Jack would have a real challenge of leadership trying to accomodate, because that is what Jack does, the eastern and western portions of his party. If I liked the NDP I would wish him well; instead I will watch and laugh!

L
said

Jim, how can you say Layton represents Canadians from all walks of life? He actually quite blatantly is against the wealthier Canadians (the rich or upper middle class) who are just as Canadian as the poor who he says he fights for. I don't understand why everyone is bashing Harper for this, he gave his opinion when asked, if he didn't answer he would probably be slaughtered for avoiding the question. If people don't want to hear what he has to say, then stop asking him questions. Also, any leader of any party when asked would do the same, to say otherwise is ridiculous.

Steve
said

The pot calling the kettle black? Harper is the one that is bent on the Bush style destruction of Canada.

Wayne in HRM
said

I question Harper's commitment to this country since he came from a Separatist party (Reform) which merged with the PC party (founders of the Bloc, another separatist party) and continued to court the Bloc while in power until now the Bloc is gone.

Joe Spumolio
said

In other news, the NDP is still irrelevant and will be even more so after the next election. Moving over to weather, it's raining and my cat is soaked. In sports, my daughter is sitting upside down on the couch watching Dora The Explorer. This just in, the NDP just became even more irrelevant, surpassing their irrelevance of just 15 seconds ago. Amazing.

Ron in Niagara
said

LOL It didn't take Stevie long ! Bet the attack ad orders are at the agency already . How many years of this ? Surely not 4 !

spaz
said

Can ANYONE.....for JUST ONE MOMENT.....stop and think what is going through Jack Layton's mind ???HE had to step aside for personal reasons, but did not want the NDP to be forgotten by the media so.....He puts in place a candidate that was shure to get everyone's gums flapping !!!!The NDP has been front and centre on EVERYONE'S mind, the topic of discussion at the water cooler...every office has been buzzing.And when he returns to a hero's welcome all this uproar will be long forgotten come next election.All those Mp's are just actors in a two bit play

GGR2
said

Stephen Harper complaining about separatists in the NDP? Does he have that short of a memory from when he espoused western separation (the firewall letter)? Or does he forget that many of his MP's from the west have previous histories of flirtation with blatant separatist organizations? Does he forget that he was once a Liberal? I guess that Harper can change, but he does not accept the same change from anyone not affiliated with the party that he currently supports. I believe that his personal membership count is five. It must be nice to hide behind the white washed glass walls of a tax payer paid mansion and lob barbs, bricks and stones at others. Particularly nice when he can claim a mandate from Canadians when his party ran on attack ads with no substance as to what he planned to do with majority.

Calvin Edmonton
said

Still see comments complaining 40% majority. I wonder if they know that the highest popular vote Chretian got was 41% when the Liberals grabbed 250 seats. 37% majority by the Liberals were never mentioned. Get the fact right and stop whining, please!

Diane
said

Jim,F.Y.I.. P.M Harper was asked about this subject and spoke his mind. Do you think that the others parties would not do the same.Also the NDP does not nor ever will represent my view of Canada. Thank goodness that there is a majority government in Ottawa. Can you imagine the firestorm that putting a separatiste as the ofiicial leader of the opposition and possibly a silly co-alition with her and Bob Rae at the helm?Our country would be in a terrible mess!

PBW
said

Politics is politics. That means you take every opportunity to criticize your opposition, whether during an election campaign, right after a win or just before the next one. Harper is only continuing a political practice started centuries ago. For those who don't accept that, just consider some of the sayings of Canada's leader since confederation vis a vis their opponents.

BrianfromSurrey
said

It's an embarrassment to all Canadians that the NDP have become the official separatist party. I have never had too much faith in Jack Layton and this just confirmed any negative feelings I have had about his judgement.

Al
said

What party is committed to the country? The Conservative's crude treatment of our veterans displays their committment to the country. The country is working well but I'm not convinced that it has anything to do with the Federal Government. My belief is that the provinces are doing their own thing to make this country work not the Feds. Politicians of all colors are in it for the perks and the pensions not because of loyalty to the country. The NDP are in it for power as is all parties.

Jacques
said

Not one question about the 1.5 Billion dollars being spent in Manitoba and Ontario to stealthely build maximum security prisons within existing minimum security prison walls. No openess for this government the more underhanded the better.

TheLibMan
said

My goodness. The NDP damage control operatives sure respond quickly! Frankly its pointless to address each comment since there isn't room in one post to address so much dishonest idiocy. In a nutshell, the left will demonize Mr. Harper no matter what he does. And if he has the nerve to point out something negative about them? Well that's just "hate speech" don't you know! That's divisive! 40% majority!! 40% majority!! Honestly, I swear the left sounds like they have a political form of turrets syndrome. Now, of course, I'm being mean and "personal", etc. Funny there's no actual discussion of the actual issue here. Just attempts to attack our Prime Minister to try and divert attention. Nobody buys it anymore guys. Sadly, you still haven't figured that out.

Acroyear
said

I still don't like Harper, but you do have to wonder at the minds inside the NDP to have not learned a thing from the Liberal Party of Canada's self destruction by putting up as a leader such an easy to hit target. Rookie, no longer term federal experience, not well know to the rest of Canada and was once part of the Bloc. Oi...there are times I think the other parties LIKE getting insulted by Harper and his party...they sure make it easy for them.

Dan
said

Come on guys... He's not attacking them or anything...He was ASKED for his thoughts, and that's his opinion... Just like all the negative comments I see here, it's just an opinion.

The Other Lowell in BC
said

I don't think Harper is in any position to criticize with regards to quebec party members. He has enough skeletons in his own closet. But then again, the word hypocrisy is not anything new in Harper's lexicon.

BA in The 'Peg
said

For all of you whining about PM Harper's comments, keep in mind politics is a blood-sport. Period. Don't think for one nano-second if the shoe was on the other foot, the opposition parties wouldn't be attacking the Conservatives if their leader stepped down temporarily and a new leader was chosen who also was a member of a separatist party. Come on people, don't be such sheep. PM Harper is doing what he should be doing as the leader of a political party, and as a leader who's party is in power. If you can't stand the heat, stay out of the kitchen!

What about ........
said

Minister Lebel and Mad Max. Denis Lebel was an active member in the BQ and Bernier worked for Benard Laundry. What is the Conservative's commitment to federalism with these folks in their midst

KC BC
said

These revelations are very concerning. I hope BC voters take a good second look at the NDP candidates who want to be in power here. As to the logic that in Quebec, jumping from party to party is no big deal...Does this mean that if I join a gang to support a friend and that gang robs a bank and gets caught, I'm covered on the downside? I can walk free? Why oh why did I work all my life!!! I would be very concerned if a Prime Minister of the country did not question such a situation. Thank you Mr. Harper.

lc
said

Who anointed Harper judge and jury on a persons patriotism?This obnoxious fool just can't help his vindictiveness.You want talk about patriotism Steve.How about the deals you inked to allow the American military to police Canadian streets,drones to patrol our airspace and turning Canadians private information over to the black hole called American homeland security.That is what has been made public the real hair raisers are likely hidden under the cloak of national security.Harper questioning others patriotism reeks of hypocrisy but just another day in Harperville!

It's what it is
said

Once again Harper needs a reminder that the election is long over, and it's time to do what he's been expected to do for over five years - stop with his immature rhetoric about the other parties and leaders and start leading the country as he's promised. Surely this buffoon has something better to do with his time given the state of our economy, and the fragile nature of our future!

Beth Fitzpatrick
said

Doug, I think you have your parties mixed up, you just described the conservative government. I would think Harper has more important things to worry about, like turning Canada into the US.

scott ns
said

I am a card carrying member of conservatives. I have never voted conservative. I went into my local pub 6 years ago and they were offering me free drink tickets if I signed up. I'm not going to say no to five free beer.

joe canada
said

wow is there an election called already? I don't see the point in these comments. Harper has a majority, stop campainging and trying to put fear into canadians. Harper is like George Bush on Fox News. (lies and deception.) It will be a great day for Canada when he is finally gone. I thought Mulroney was bad Harper is twice the devil.

jim
said

While Harper is (yet again) using every political maneuver to undermine opposition; Jack Layton is recovering (we hope) from a cancer. NDP has always represented Canadians from every walk of life. Can Harper and his party say the same? Has Harper ever fought for the poor in Canada, or only the interest of the rich?Dont be so smug Mr.Harper, you are not the majority by a long shot.

Cambob in Toronto
said

One of the primary goals of socialism is centralized government. One of the primary goals of the seperatists is removing themselves from centralized government. How can the NDP play both sides of the fence and not expect themselves to be ripped apart? I wish Mr. Layton well in his personal struggle, but politically speaking, the NDP has developed a terrible cancer of its own: divided loyalties.

MikeW
said

@khrum Gonna be pretty difficult to work with the opposition when the new separatist NDP leader says in her first address " i cant wait for Parliament to resume so that i can fight the Harper government. You must have missed thatI wonder when the Bloc and NDP will merge. Both parties are done for the long haul

Niagara George
said

Interestingly, when Harper's past is mentioned, the Con supporters out there don't mind saying he has changed. They want us to forget he has said the health care system in Canada should be completely changed, that Canada should have invaded Iraq, with the Americans, that he would never appoint Senators or that he signed a memorandum of agreement with these same dreadful separatists. (There are many more, but that makes the point.) Of course, when you are King Steve you can say and do what you want and your followers will make excuses for you or simply look the other way.

Alexandria
said

The difference between having belonged to the Liberal Party and changing to the Conservatives or being a Conservative and changing to the Liberal Party is that these Parties are not dedicated to taking a Province out of Canada.I think Jack is very cunning. He chose a person who will be controversial so they will not over shadow him while he is gone. Smart smart maneuvering.

Yeehaw
said

Hello voters---ya get what ya voted for....enjoy the low blows and continued harper derogatory lines like the sky is falling.....wouldn't you want someone like that working in your workplace everyday......

Roy
said

Nothing like trying to get the generous Canadian pension,it's funny all these separatists want to get our generosity.

NDP Supporter from English Canada
said

There is only one solution for the NDP to remain relevant - NYcole Turmel must resign. NDP have several seasoned veteran MP's who can step in as interim leader, such as Thomas Mulclair. Appointing a rookie MP who just joined the party in 2011 was bound to have difficulties, but her ties to TWO seperatist parties is not acceptable and disappointing to all Canadians who want Canada to remain a country.

Jack
said

The NDP is our "government-in-waiting"? What a joke. Looks like they'll be waiting for a very long time.

Joe Szentirmy
said

Both the Bloc and NDP platforms are rooted in communist ideology, so why is everyone surprised that they're in bed together.Quebec has and continues to try and gain control of Canada at the federal level,having succeeded to a certain extent.Just look at who's staffing the various departments of our federal government.Where did the NDP gain most of their seats?We should thank our lucky stars that the Conservatives have a majority.

hollis butts
said

i have always voted n.d.p. but i will not the next time. the ndp have replaced the bloc in p.q. as a regional party.

Redneck Albertanb
said

Assuming Ms. Turmel is not really a separatist, one must then question how ethical a person is to join political parties they do not actually believe in. That would be like me joining the Greens as a favour for a friend, while continuing to drive a smoke spewing diesel and leaving the six PC's in my energy inefficient house on all the time.

Sensible in Toronto
said

This is just another example of the NDP saying and doing anything just to get into power.They are nothing more than disruptive propogandists.Think about it: The NDP needs as many Canadians as possible to stay poor and uneducated, lest its voter base vanish.Any educated Canadian that will suffer the consequences of having their incomes and property taken away would never vote NDP.Their fear mongering only works with the uneducated, just like Hitler's demagoguery.Let me spell it out for you:Definition of DEMAGOGUE1: a leader who makes use of popular prejudices and false claims and promises in order to gain power.The most vile capitalist in the most vile of businesses still contributes more to society and the economy than any idealistic socialist.

j.brown
said

I question Harper's integrity regarding true democracy. The guy runs his party like a dictator. He bullies his party members to toe 'his' party line. He bullies the Gov. Gen. into allowing the proroguing of parliament so that he can deceive and lie to the Canadian public to push his right wing doctrine. He is a sanctimonious, two-faced, Christian when the need arises, egomaniac. But then again, we elected him so that must mean he is the best that we have. Or are we as Canadians total fools?This must be the start of his next attack ad campaign. When will we learn!!!!!!

James
said

Since when has Harpo cared about Canadians? He and his neo-con cronies certainly care for corporations and the wealthy but they tend to ignore anyone not interested in writing them a cheque.

Steve G
said

One of Harpos main platforms may be collapsing under him, note the following commentary on the US budget debacal: "It is clear that the defense budget will be cut, though whether dramatically or modestly depends on how things play out. Even with minor cuts, military items may be lost, including the F-35 Joint Strike Fighter, $300 billion program that is both behind schedule and over cost, says Travis Sharp, a budget analyst at the Center for a New American Security."

Canada first
said

I'm wondering if Harper and Tories are doing any good to Canada by spending their time attacking their opponents. The best thing for CANADA is to ignore the stupidity of Tories� childish propagandas.

Mark - Calgary
said

"While Turmel says she's never been a separatist..."But yet she joined two separatist parties. See the hypocrisy here? If Harper used to be a member of a separatist party, the ones defending Turmel would be going crazy.

the big gulp
said

doug wrote, Beware of these people --half the lies they tell arn't true and the other half are just lies. You messed up, that applies to Steve and his buddies.

shawn
said

Unequivocally committed to the country Mr. Harper? Alberta Firewall. That is all.

It is what it is
said

The troubling part is why didn't the NDP know about this? How many others are separatists? It is disconcerting to find out that NYcole's membership to the NDP EXPIRED in 2009. She only became an NDP member again last year, in time to run for election, while still maintaining her ties to rthe BLOC and Separtist Quebec. It is contrary to NDP constitution to hold memberships in more than one federal party, yet they allow her to do that. NYcole says she was a separtist to support a friend, what friend caused her to join NDP? Her very poor English language skills make Stephane Dion seem fluent by comparison, anotther sign of a separatist. She has no choice but to resign.

Whiskey Tango Foxtrot
said

The progressive left hates when the light of truth reveals what trolls they really are. If Nycole Turmel was a Conservative the NDP and the Liberals would have a field day crucifying every aspect of her life. No stone unturned!

Peter in BC
said

Harper has his majority so he needs to shut it and govern like Canadians expect him to, not like he wants to. His US style of politics and slander isn't welcome here in Canada. He has 4 years to go until re-election, so focus on governing and leave the slandering until the next campaign. Does this guy ever give up and just focus on doing his job? This is why he'll never gain the popular vote in Canada.

LOWAITOK
said

This is really "A MOVE OF EXPEDIENCY" on her part...imagine ,had she lost the last federal elction,she could've returned to the fold of "the other party" in quebec,whether it is at the provincial or federal level...and try her 2nd chanceSMART MOVE,except she needs to be honest in the beginning,NOT after

back and to the left
said

Talk about gratitude, it was the NDP that got you elected... Pinhead.

scott
said

It would seem the the NDP are nothing more than a front for the Parti Qubecois. Brilliant when you think about it. The best way for Quebec to seperate is simply to rip the country apart from within thereby Quebec will lose nothing in the process. Brilliant, absolutely brillint. Canadians won't even see it coming. It's probaly already to late to stop the carnage.

Khrum
said

Hum,wonder how many of his crew had cards from other partys before joining his?Gotta be very desperate to use this as a low blow.Man up and start working with the oppositions instead of being a dictator.

James
said

I bet the NDP is hoping "Get well soon, Jack."

Jason Daniel Baker, Toronto
said

With a past of endorsing Bloc candidates using her position as head of CUPE and membership in two separatist parties it is obvious that Ms.Turmel is a separatist of longstanding who joined the NDP when she detected political winds were going their way. Anyone who expresses concern about her background in sovereigntist circles is being pretty reasonable. It is obvious the NDP should have chosen a different interim leader. The choice they made was unimaginably short-sighted.

Bob,Calgary,Alberta
said

I really don't think Nycole Turmel's committment to Canada is questionable. In Quebec people jump from party to party like they are playing a game of "twister" with their sole objective being to get as much dosh as they can from the Federal government. She's been an NDP activist for over 20 years so questioning her loyalty is a waste of time. No French Quebecer is really loyal to Canada because they see Quebec as "mon pays".The other thing I noticed on this thread is the return of those assinine comments about Harper only getting 40% of the vote.

erika
said

for starters, perhaps stephen harper could clarify how referring to canada as a third rate socialist country is evidence of his unequivocal commitment to it.

TM
said

Harper's only commitment is to himself.

DSK
said

Geez Harper, keep it classy. Not even a week after Layton step down and you're already attacking the NDP like a hungry wolf. I see what you're trying to do but like I said, try to keep it classy. Attacking the NDP so quickly is not going to get you a majority. I also think you should reconsider your speech. The NDP represents a good portion of this country's values, it's not all Conservative as you seem to think. Settle down...

doug
said

As warned the NDP will sell their soul to get in power and they will sell out Canadians to keep in power.They are at best a smoke and mirrors party.This interm leader is a wolf in sheeps clothing.Beware of these people --half the lies they tell arn't true and the other half are just lies.

Disappointed but not surprised
said

His comments are not helpful and I'm sure his past associations aren't squeaky clean either. Why is he constantly fanning the flames of dissent and promoting fear. He is very divisive and not what we need right now but I guess we should expect more bully tactics especially against a female opposition leader so let his latest American-style smear campaign begin.

Jamie D
said

Harper is a PM whose government was cited as being in contempt of parliament. From this latest drivel, he is also out of touch with Canadians as a whole.

Mark
said

Commentary from the "Left" nothwithstanding thus far on this website, I do think that the NDP in general and Jack Layton in particular owe the country an explanation. I wonder how the NDP members in BC feel about a separatist leader of their party?

Jack (wpg)
said

Insincerity thy name is Harper. "I wish Jack Layton well... now to destroy the new interim leader before Layton comes back".

Keeder
said

It makes sense for the leader of Canada to question the loyalty, based on history, of the leader of the official opposition. The NDP is the next closest party to governing this country and the views of their leader need to be carefully considered.

Christine
said

stay classy, Mr. Harper. Way to take advantage of Jack Layton's fight with cancer and attack the NDP mere days after appointing an interim leader. A different person might give Turmel a week ot two to acclimatize herself after stepping in on short notice to support a collegue who is seriously ill. Really shows your character.

Neil
said

J. Reilly - Give your head a shake. When was the last time a Prime Minister was elected with more than 40% of the popular vote. Certainly not Chretien or Martin. You probably weren't complaining then. Grow up.

Rob
said

You have a majority Harper. Save the fear mongering for the next election.

Hal
said

Canadians have no time for seperatists. What was Jack Layton thinking when he nominated her?Not only is she a pro union she is also pro quebec seperation!The NDP are TOAST in the rest of Canada!

crestliner
said

Harper is quite a joke, questioning the new leader of the oppositions commitment to Canada when you consider his destruction of Canadian democracy.His contempt of Parliament, his lying to Parliament,his deceit and corruption, a few yearsago he even tried to organize Alberta to separate from Canada. His corporate party of Canada willsurely bankrupt the country. Mulroney started this destruction with his free trade, Harpers here to finish the job.

Phillip Martin
said

A leopard cannot change its spots.She has personally confessed to be a member of a party sworn to break up Canada. She was sworn in as LEADER of the NDP not to be confused with other MPs who changed parties.This is a LEADER of the OPPOSITION in the House. Just a shameful opportunist. The NDP will suffer over this. Liberals will rejoice.

J. Reilly
said

I think P.M. Harper should rethink his comments. His policies do not seem to represent the millions of Canadians who expect this country to provide good health care, fair unemployment practices, ane decent retirement benefits. He should remember that he was elected by less than 40% of the Canadians who voted before he starts making comments such as these.

charlie
said

Denis Lebel an active member of the BLOC? Then why was he making anti-BLOC speeches and writing anti-BLOC articles? Perhaps the NDP would like to clarify.

somtosay
said

does harper ever stop campiagning

kate dyson
said

I couldn't care less...her affiliation with a separatist group...wasn't Mr Harper part of some group in Alberta that wanted the west to separate? I wonder how committed he is to Canada given what he's doing to destroy the nation...with his quasi American Ayn Rand voodoo economic policies...

Ann Simpson
said

I don't think Mr. Harper's comments are at all helpful, but rather create some kind of 'fear' - a tactic he is well know for using. He should show better leadership and encourage all citizens to do their research rather than just reacting.

Today's Top Stories

Labour Minister Lisa Raitt appears on CTV's Power Play on Monday, May 28, 2012.

Pick your location

Top Stories -

News Sections

News Programs

Features

Browse: