Local Stations 
 

Pick your location

All CTV Stations

 

Related TV Shows

Gossip Girl

Gossip Girl

Gossip Girl

Gossip Girl

Gossip Girl

CTV News | Emerson reaffirmed as foreign minister in mini-shuffle

Top Stories -   

News Sections

Canada

World

Entertainment

Sports

Business

Sci-Tech

Health

Politics

Weather

News Programs

CTV National News with Lloyd Robertson

Canada AM

W5

Features

Autos

Consumer

Browse:

Video

Galleries

MyNews

News Team Bios

Sign up for Alerts, Mednews Express, weather and more

Home

Schedule

Home : Top Stories : Emerson reaffirmed as foreign minister in mini-shuffle

Emerson reaffirmed as foreign minister in mini-shuffle

Viewer

CTV News Video

CTV News: Ottawa Bureau Chief Robert Fife reports
CTV Newsnet: Barbara Yaffe, of The Vancouver Sun, on what the appointment of Moore means for B.C.
CTV Newsnet: Tim Powers, Conservative Strategist, with insight into the cabinet shuffle choices
CTV Newsnet: Ujjal Dosanjh, B.C. Liberal MP, reacts to the new appointees
CTV Newsnet: Paul Dewar, NDP foreign affairs critic, reacts to the new appointees
CTV Newsnet: Mike Duffy on what the changes will mean for Harper's government
CTV Newsnet: The new cabinet members are sworn in at Rideau Hall
CTV Newsnet: Analysts consider the strengths and weaknesses of the new ministers

Watch: See all Videos in the Player

Font-size:      Share  Print  Comments(93)

CTV.ca News Staff

Date: Wed. Jun. 25 2008 6:10 PM ET

David Emerson has been officially shifted to his new role as Canada's foreign affairs minister following the removal of Maxime Bernier, who was forced to resign over a recent scandal.

The appointment is part of a cabinet mini-shuffle by Prime Minister Stephen Harper. Several others were either sworn into cabinet for the first time or shuffled to new portfolios during a Wednesday morning ceremony at Ottawa's Rideau Hall.

Sen. Michael Fortier was moved to the International Trade post to replace Emerson and junior minister Christian Paradis was promoted to take over the Public Works portfolio from Fortier.

The appointment of Paradis, a lawyer from Thetford Mines, Que., gives the Conservatives a new star in the province and serves to fill the void of Quebecers in the government's senior ranks following Bernier's departure.

Paradis' new responsibilities come in addition to his role as secretary of state for agriculture, a job he is keeping.

James Moore, a parliamentary secretary from B.C. who is considered a rising star in the Conservative party, was promoted to cabinet to take on the role of secretary of state for official languages, the Asia-Pacific gateway and the Vancouver Olympics.

Harper didn't speak formally to the media, but as he was leaving Rideau Hall he said: "We're on track, and we're going to stay on track."

Moore, Fortier and Paradis followed the prime minister's lead and said little to the media as they left Rideau Hall.

Bernier resigned from the Foreign Affairs post after it was revealed that he had left classified documents at the home of Julie Couillard, his former girlfriend. It had been revealed earlier that Couillard had personal ties to people involved in Quebec biker gangs.

The analysis

Emerson was considered by many to be a shoo-in for the post. A Department of Foreign Affairs news release appeared to confirm the appointment on Tuesday, saying the B.C. minister would be attending a G8 meeting in Japan this week. As a result, he was not in Ottawa for the ceremony.

Emerson, a reliable and experienced minister, is considered a safe choice.

"It's a very good appointment. Mr. Emerson is one of the best cabinet ministers Mr. Harper has," said CTV's Ottawa Bureau Chief Robert Fife.

"He chairs many cabinet committees, including the special committee on Afghanistan, the foreign affairs and defence committee of cabinet, and he's going to bring some mature leadership to foreign affairs."

One of Emerson's main challenges in his file will be Canada's relationship with China. Former Liberal MP John Manley noted on CTV Newsnet that Harper's relationship with the country has been cooler than the previous Liberal government over China's human rights record.

As a former minister of International Trade, Emerson should be quite familiar with China's importance as a trade partner, Manley said.

Another challenge for Emerson and the Conservative Party will be getting him re-elected should be choose to run in the next election. First elected as a Liberal MP in 2004 in a Vancouver riding, he crossed the floor to join the Conservatives in 2006.

A lone protester reminded people of the switch at Rideau Hall on Wednesday.

"He should have run in a byelection. He crossed the floor, he has no creditability," the protester told reporters.

Conservative strategist Geoff Norquay told CTV Newsnet that Quebecers "will be impressed" with Paradis once they get to know the low-key MP.

Manley said Paradis has an opportunity to replace Bernier as the key Harper MP in Quebec.

"He's got to be the face of the Conservative government in rural, francophone Quebec," CTV's Mike Duffy said.

B.C. Liberal MP Ujjal Dosanjh said that Moore's promotion was in large part due to his handling of the Chuck Cadman scandal for the Conservatives.

Dosanjh also criticized Harper's appointment of Fortier, an unelected senator, to cabinet because they are not forced to answer questions in the House of Commons.

The opposition points to Fortier's appointment as a sign that Harper has a weak bench to choose ministers from.

Critics also noted that no women were appointed to the cabinet. There are eight women in Harper's cabinet but most of them have junior positions and none are ministers of any of the major portfolios.

Please Add Comments( )

MHR
said
0 0

What good this will do? All Emerson will do is remind us of Harper's flip flop on many issues including his so called Accountiablity Act.

Emerson sold his soul to get job as Minister so I wonder if he will sell Canada out as Foreign Affairs Minister? He already sold us out on USA Lumber deal.

Oh boy......


Thom
said
0 0

a game of musical chairs, what a crock...


Mark
said
0 0

I give Mr. Emerson the Benefit of the dought that he walked across the floor to take care of unfinished business. It's sad how so many can be so suspicious about politicians moves.

Do you think that maybe just maybe Mr. Harper is trying to put a strong team in place for the good of the Country, and that he trusts the abilities of a smart man Mr. David Emerson...

Sheesh look around you it happens in business all the time, sometimes people end up in the wrong positions and they are over their head and need to be replaced.

I would rather see that then ignore the problems like the Liberals did for so many years.


Rocket
said
0 0

We complain about the Conservatives. We complain about the Liberals. We complain about the NDP and Bloc. We complain about who gets what portfolio in the cabinet.

Why don't we complain about the lack of voter turn-out at elections? Some claim it to be a lack of choice. I say we be glad we even have a choice. Maybe if more Canadians took their civic duty seriously and exercised their right to vote we might have more control and less to gripe about.

Consider the alternative. This could be Zimbabwe we're voting in.


Michael
said
0 0

People with tiny minds can only think in partisan political terms. If politicians are to serve the country and Canadians, they need to rise above the petty mindless partisan rivalries and address issues objectively. A leader who does not adjust and rigidly sticks to an agenda will always fail because none of us can make all of the rules all of the time.

I think David Emerson will do a super job for Canada as our foreign minister.


Wise Wajid
said
0 0

Who cares? They're all just puppets anyway with one Neo-con pulling the strings. Shuffled in and out because someone's cleavage showed, or another is getting a divorce or worse, one was in line to a PG-13 movie. OOOHH! The anticipation of the new "whatever-you-say-sir" cabinet!!


531111
said
0 0

MARK re: Emerson, Is this the same guy who gutted our softwood lumber deal to American Interests. Maybe you are not aware of the fact that not one dime of the 5+ billion in returned tariffs has ever made it back to the forestry companies. GW Bush refuses to acknowledge this ruling and although Emmerson SAYS we got the money back, WE HAVEN"T. I know of forestry companies on the Fraser River area in Vancouver that have been waiting a long time for these funds that haven't and never will arrive. Harpers borders stop just to the east side of the rockies folks and the people of BC better figure this out fast. He say's he will help BC, but it's not really on his adgenda folks.Conservative governments have never really cared about BC.


Charlie
said
0 0

Crossing the floor is totally unacceptable under any circumstances. Mr. Emerson is a prime example of how inexperienced and underqualified Mr. Harper's team really is if he has to recruit from the opposition.

Keep Emerson, Mr. Harper, his constitutents will make sure to send a message loud and clear in the next election, that we as voters will no longer stand for such dishonourable behaviour, and politicians who get elected under falsehoods.


Mark M
said
0 0

Charlie said
"Crossing the floor is totally unacceptable under any circumstances. Mr. Emerson is a prime example of how inexperienced and underqualified Mr. Harper's team really is if he has to recruit from the opposition.

Keep Emerson, Mr. Harper, his constitutents will make sure to send a message loud and clear in the next election, that we as voters will no longer stand for such dishonourable behaviour, and politicians who get elected under falsehoods."

Then you better be voting for a green or an NDP'er because you'd be voting for a party that did the same thing with the "Belinda" fiasco. Talk about calling the kettle black....



MHR
said
0 0

We need to increase voting-turn out to make this Government better reflect on population. I agree with every comment here however I stand by with Liberal as my loyal lay with Liberal's ideogly. I respect them however I would like to remind you fine Canadian fellow that Harper is member of an party that house many other parties. Many of these parties used to be very messed up in politic stance and we need to not allow this become daily basis. Today, we see more less vote turnout, more cabinet shuffle than ever, more member being fired, more mud-sliding, more politic "ALL FOR CANADA" attitude, more american-style which resulted in -ALL TIME LOW VOTE TURNOUT-.

I believe that many negatives with current Parliament started since Harper became Leader of Reformer Party. House is all about team-worker and alway united.

Today - we see Liberal and Tories are so bent on being divided.

Best way is united and put half of Liberal into Cabinet position and make this country better and united.

Caper
said
0 0

A strong cabinet? From what? A bunch of Harper's puppy dogs just waiting to bark out what they really stand for! Not much to choose from for sure?


Chris
said
0 0

How many cabinet shuffles were under Martin's minority? 3, 4? It's a minority government. Cabinet shuffles have to occur all the time to keep it working. It's not only important politically, but it's important for our country.


John D. Trudeau
said
0 0

Emerson is the repersentation of the Conservative/Alliance party. He says one thing to gain the public trust/vote, then does the other. He is the essence of a turncoat. Also fun to note is how quick conservatives are to forget the foul-play they called on the Liberals. What a hypocritical government. The Alliance party needs to go now, I can't remember a time in my life when Canada's present was in such terrible shape and the future was in such danger.


Paul in BC
said
0 0

Michael Fortier should not even be in cabinet. First of all he was unelected. The only reason Harper put him in his cabinet in the first place was because he was the money maker for Harper in the Province of Quebec.

The same goes for David Emerson, he was not even elected as a Conservative but Harper was so desperate for city representation he made him a cabinet minister as well.

I remember Harper was all about accountability and trust and what did he do the first day in Government, he appointed a NON ELECTED person into cabinet and a member of another party as Minister too.

So much for trust and honesty!


Denise
said
0 0

Hmmm...kind of like how Belinda Stronach and Scott Brison crossed the floor and were welcomed into the fold by the Liberals??? Oh right, that's different, the Liberals only have the best interests of Canada at heart. I forgot...


Robin
said
0 0

This 3rd shuffle is merely optics. Everyone knows Harper is the Minister for EVERY portfolio. It would be hilarious if it weren't so sad.


Davey boy
said
0 0

Congratulations David Emerson. We know you and the rest of the Tories will continue to do a good job representing our great Nation.


Josh in Ontario
said
0 0

531111:
Harper was elemental in turning the Reform Party (a party dedicated to representing Western interests) into a national political force. 531111 your comment doesn't make much sense. As for the softwood issue, we are lucky that we got any money back at all. He didn't sell us out. Option 1) push for a return of all the tariffs to be returned and be ignored by the US, or
Option 2) strike a deal to get as much back as we can.
Let logic dictate


Greg from Kitchener
said
0 0

PM Harper has a great team, I know he will pick the right people for the right Job, Haprer impresses me more and more each day!



Terry
said
0 0

Hey MHR.

Remember Belinda, what did she sell? :-)

Happens all the time, Emerson's a great choice.


IT Manager in Calgary
said
0 0

Funny how the Conservative party absolutely crucified Stronach and Turner for crossing the floor to the Liberals, yet when Emerson crossed the floor to join the Cons, he gets a cabinet post. This is proof of Harper's hypocrisy and his complete lack of accountability. Of course, all of the right wing hacks who support Harper will just swallow it up like they do all of Harper's other dozens of lies.

This cabinet shuffle will take more ultra-right wing hacks and move them around so that they can further demonstrate the incompetence of the entire Con party. I look forward to it, since the Cons have been proving me right since day one.


PBW
said
0 0

Rocket makes the most valid point of all the posters.

We are in a minority situation because too many of our voters couldn't be bothered to mark an X on a ballot. Perhaps if we had all voted the result would have been a majority for the Liberals - or Conservatives or NDP.

As long as the general public - or at least a significant portion of it - is apathetic, we will get what we deserve: a government that is either indecisive or unable to implement policy effectively.

If leaving Emerson at Foreign Affairs means more efficiency, so be it. If placing someone else there is more effective - ditto. Regardless of who is placed there, there will be complaints that the person is either too right wing, ineffective, poorly qualified or whatever.

Perhaps the most vocal critics on this forum should walk the walk and run for office, rather than cricizing anyone who actually has the strength of character to serve.


MAC
said
0 0

my my -such cynical people re the shuffle - reappointment etc - Mr. Emerson has proven his worth more so in this Government than the last and has proven he is not working on a specific political agenda - however that is not to say I agree with crossing the floor...
The detractors - those who have such vehemence against the Conservatives sure have memory-loss when you look at the record of the Liberals many who were in power before - can you believe them now ? or should we remind you of The Red Book,Sponsorship
That is not to say we turn a blind eye - acountability is paramount - but I will take a Mr. Bernier's faux pas over outright illegal activity anyday - Stop expecting the Government to fix everything and do your part ! - get involved.


Steve in Ottawa
said
0 0

I know he's a bit of a Liberal turn coat - but the Liberals and Conservatives are pretty much the same anyway.

Personally I think Mr. Emerson is one of the most talented politicians Canada has produced. He's done a phenominal job on the International Trade portfolio and will be the perfect fit for Foreign Affairs.

PM Harper scooped Emerson for one reason only: he doesn't have to babysit him like he does all the other ministers. He respects Mr. Emerson for his extremely high level of intellect and ability to get the job done.

I'm no Conservative (or a Liberal)but I think Harper has made the right choice.


Co
said
0 0

I suspect there are few elected officials that are genuinely qualified to be the manager of anything, unbiased enough to be the country's "moral" authority, or to raise the bar of the ethical standard of our government. Because we are a democracy and even the most poorly qualified for office can run, we are at the mercy of those who will try their best to advance society. Sometimes we get a diamond in the rough, other times, not so much.


MNAJD
said
0 0

Before you complain, you got to look at what he accomplished for BC. Fundings for the world class Kicking Horse Park Bridge, the Pitt River Bridge, Port Mann Bridge, Canada Line... BC would get little funding if not bcuz of him.


BCM
said
0 0

After the damage done by the previous two Governments, I think the Harper Government was wise in appointing Mr. Emerson. Given the state of our relations with our largest trading partner prior to the end of the Martin Government, I feel he has done a good job. As in friendships, turned sour , they are very difficult to mend.
For those of us not recieving a Government cheque every week, this is manditory that we mend that fence.
Looking forward to his efforts in a professional representation of Canada.


PMLarry
said
0 0

As I read the comments that have been made, I begin to wonder how this country survives. Maybe people who make comments only do so to get something off their chest. (I guess that is what I am doing). However, wouldn't be nice to actually strike up a intelligent converstation on issues, listen to each other and learn from what we have to say from each other. I find that too many people want to strike a "blow" to people in government. The hard truth is that the government (executive banch) will be run fairly similar no matter who is in office, as most of the workers who are in that branch are unelected civil servants. In addition we are country that is quite idiologically similar. People talk about left-wing and righ-wing, but the truth is that our right-wing poltiics could be considered left-wing in a lot of countries, and as vice versa with our left-wing politics. We are a country that is in the centre of the political spectrum.

As for the cabinet shuffle which was the main issue of the article, we need to see who is appointed and how they preform before and any concrete judgements can be made. We seem so eager to rush to a prediction that most of the time is incorrect, or only partially proven correct. It is easy for us here say that is the worst move ever, we don't have any consequences to be afraind of when we post such prediction, or worse accusatiosns.

I all ask is lets be civil.


Dr. Agos
said
0 0

Who cares if they cross the floor, as long as they do a good job for Canada. David Emerson is one of the most competent ministers this country ever had, he is a real asset for a mediocre Parliament and a sub-mediocre and uneducated electorate.


Cowboy
said
0 0

For Denise: you seem to forget that Stronach & Brison served the majority of their time with the party they ran with, the Conservative Party. It was only after they realized that as a woman and a gay man, they stood nowhere with the Conservatives which is why they most likely crossed the floor.

What's the excuse for Emerson?


MHR
said
0 0

Terry Re:

I do remember Belinda HOWEVER She crossed the floor before election instead after like Emerson. Emerson just dont care which party won but he want job so Harper gave it to him. That show bad side of MR. MIGHT STEPHEN HARPER.

Also, to point out that Conservative won election based on ACCOUNTABILITY.

Belinda also stated that she do not agree with where PC stand. Emerson just in it for money.

This may happens all the time but Harper was against this then he did it himself.

Make your choice Terry, if you want to vote for him. Your problem if politic got more worst in upcoming year.


RRO
said
0 0

MHR "put half of Liberals into Cabinet", when did Jean Chretien or Paul Martin ever do that.

I do not blame Emerson for crossing the floor from a party that is as corrupt as the Liberals. I do think he should have sat as an independant. But the Conservatives needed to build their caucus to get more experiance.

Prime Minister Harper looked beyond partisan lines, to somone with a great deal of experiance to fill the position. If you read anything Emmerson has ever written or stated publically, he has always been a blue Liberal, well when Mr. Dion took power they became the organe Liberals, Emmerson would never have stayed under Dions leadership.

Emmerson will serve well as Minister of Foreign Affairs. I think he will go into the next election and win re-election because the reality is smart voters vote for the candidate not the party.


RRO
said
0 0

Everyone trying to compare Stronach and Emerson needs to take a careful look at reality.

Belinda crossed the floor during a CONFIDENCE vote in exchange for a cabinet seat.

Emmerson did get a cabiet seat, and crossed the floor, but not on a confidence motion.

Belinda stronach ran for the leadership of the Conservative party.

Emerson has always been a right leaning liberals. He wanted to get things done in his portfolio, which to me says he wanted to serve canadians despite partisan politics.

Belinda blindsided her boyfriend while doing it.

Emerson informed the party leadership before making the news public.

As for Brison and Turner who cares. Turner sat as an independant first and got crusfied for breaking the rules. Brison crossed the floor and got a little hissing but that was it.

Emmerson is going to make a great Minister of Foreign Affairs.


Mike Webster
said
0 0

@IT Manager....it's even fuinnier the way Liberals welcomed Stronach with open arms when she accepted the lure of a cabinet post to cross the floor and yet you lambaste Mr. Emmerson. Got to love double standards.

I could have almost predicted your post along with those of rest of the usualo suspects word-for-word. Emerson has been a very capable minister and he will do an excellent job on foreign affairs - certainly better than the likes of Lloyd Axworthy or the other assorted ultra left-wing hacks the Liberals put in that position.

Face it, the Tories are going to be around for a long time. They aren't going to lose to the likes of Mr. Dion who can't lead to save his own life. Mr. Harper is making some excellent moves to strengthen an already strong and capable team.




Mary Grady (MGG)
said
0 0

David Emerson is an educated and smart businessman. He did not sell us out over the Softwood Lumber Deal. After the Liberals, it is a bonus to have intelligent people in Cabinet. Canadians biggest problem seems to be that we have a nation of whiners! These same whiners rarely show up at election time to cast their ballot!


bunny
said
0 0

I like Emerson, he is in my riding.I will vote him back in. I also really like Fortier, sounds good


James from Vancouver
said
0 0

For those of you who are sticking up for Emerson you must note that it was within hours of being elected as a Liberal and campaigning hard against the Conservatives that Emerson crossed the floor. To the public and his supporters here in Vancouver it was shocking. Belinda, Brison who did not cross after an election and who crossed on the grounds their opposition to the direction of the Harper Conservatives vs. Emerson who crossed the floor for a job.


Denise
said
0 0

Ahhh, but Scott Brison crossed the floor four days after voting in favour of the PC/Alliance merger...which also happened to be shortly after his failed leadership bid in the PC party. He then crossed the floor and shock of shocks! He ran for the leadership of the Liberal party. I'm not saying that what David Emerson did was right, but you cannot paint floor-crossing politicians with different brushes, depending on which party they cross to. Let's face it, they all do it to gain something, ie. a seat in the ruling party of the day.


CG
said
0 0

It is kind of funny that most everyone in Canada that complains about the Government and Harper are the same people that voted Harper and his band of merry men in. All I can say to those people ... you asked for it -- which is pretty much the same comment for the US and George Bush when they complain about their mess. Time to just go with the flow I guess


Colonel Blimp
said
0 0

More pandering to Quebec, it should have been a full shuffle to dump some of the total losers like Peter Van Loan (aka Van Loonie) and the dead wood like Josee Verner and Bev Oda. The only thing that is going to keep this government in power is the stupidity of Stephan Dion and company.


Allan Eizinas
said
0 0

It must be embarrassing for Harper to have to admit that the strongest minister in his Conservative cabinet is Liberal thinking Emerson.

Remember that Emerson has never repudiated Liberal Party philosophy and has certainly never embraced the right wing dogma. Was it not only a couple of years ago that he said, “under a Harper government, the strong would survive and the weak die.” And on election night didn’t he say that he wanted to be "Stephen Harper's worst nightmare."

What does that tell us about the rest of the members of this Harper cabinet?


Rob O
said
0 0

Its great to see all the name calling and bashing going on, but people seem to forget. Who ever is in power will never make everyone happy. For all you die hard Liberal lovers, roll over and play dead just like you leader. Unless you want to go back to the Jean days where he just told you to go to hell and let him run the country as he was elected to. God how people forget so soon, when there party is not in power.


MHR
said
0 0

Re to RBO comment,

Don't be too sure that Emerson wouldn't cross the floor to Liberal if Dion won next upcoming election. Reality is we never know but this need to stop and based on your comment - it look like your opinion is that party history doesn't matter then why are your bashing Liberal for previous government corrupt.


Doug BC
said
0 0

David Emerson has proven to be a very effective Member Of Parliament no matter which job he did.THose who suggest his crossing the floor to sit as a Conservative should see him bounced out, are the kinds of people who would cut off their noses to spite their faces. I like him when he was a Liberal, and continue to like him as a Conservative. Political partisanship is NEVER a good reason to discount someone's abilities.
Mr. Fortier is also a very talented man.But it remains to be seen if he can use those talents in a portfolio like International Trade.
I would say though,I find it amazing anyone would take on any cabinet position given the contempt and ranor in Canadian politices these days. Even before the positions are announced people are lining up to whine about them,and the media and opponents of the government are busy looking for a single mis-spoken phrase or a single indiscretion in their pasts,just hoping to find a reason why they shouldn't do the job.
Talk about living in a fishbowl. I'd say we should consider ourselves lucky someone is willing to step into such a fray.


Lisa
said
0 0

Rocket said it best: The voter turnout in this country is pathetic! We get what we deserve when we don't pay attention. Thnk the Govt. would get away with half the crap it pulls if they knew more people were paying attention. they wouldn't. Til people learn to exercise their civic DUTY, we'll get more and more crap.


IT Manager in Calgary
said
0 0

@Mike Webster - Addressing you directly, since you addressed me directly.

I don't have double standards. I never said that I advocated Stronach or Turner corssing the floor. I was merely pointing out how hypocritical Harper and every single puppet in the CON party are for yelling at the opposition for what they themselves do. I believe anyone leaving a party should sit as an independant, and should only be allowed to join another party before an election. So, nice try at trying to trap me in the same hypocrisy that runs rampant in YOUR chosen party, but maybe you should actually read what I say before you try to pan me for it.

And I know the tories will be around for a long time. As long as people like yourself continue to turn a blind eye to Stephen Harper's hypocrisy, dozens and dozens of lies, and his hidden agenda, of course they will continue to be re-elected. I only hope they stay in a minority situation so that I don't have to seek refugee status in Cuba.


Gary
said
0 0

You anti-Conservatives want any more cheese with your "Whine":)


Wes
said
0 0

Cowboy: if you think the reason Stronach crossed the floor was because she was a woman... go back to the student union building and find some pro-lifers or warming deniers to ban. You're not ready for a reasonable debate.


Jim
said
0 0

It is too bad, there are so many variables in these decsions. Since the stronger MP's generally come from the West it would be good to see cabinet appointments made on the basis of merit rather than by region/sex/ethnicity etc. On the positive, after the Oct 2009 election, Mr Harper should have a bigger pool from Quebec in which to select members of his cabinet.


RealCanada
said
0 0

This is simply more proof that consevative politics have no place in this country. Cons should move south and get out.


Linda
said
0 0

I may be wrong about this,but I thought the PM could appoint any MP to cabinet.I know it's not done,but is there anything to prevent the PM from appointing a Liberal,or NDPer ??
Some of these posts about Mr.Enerson are so biggoted they are laughable.Mr.Emerson ran to serve his country.He is a good communicator and has a very useful set of skills.Since none of his talents would be useful as a Liberal in opposition,he chose to cross the floor to a position that allowed him to do more than simple name calling from the opposition bench.I applaud him for what he is able to do,and the skills he brings to government.
If we want Parliament to change the rules regarding party affiliation,or crossing the floor,let's have the debate and do it.In the mean time,let's just use the talents of the best people in the best possible way.
And finally,if we look across the aisle,we see people like Bob Rae,Scott Brison,Ujahl Dosanjh,Keith Martin,and on and on and on.But all with one similarity.They ALL changes parties because they wanted to sit in government,not in opposition.
I just want people who can get on with the work that needs to be done.After the election is done,I don't give a fat rat's behind what party they belong to.
Political partisanship is for fools.It's issues that count.


Tabby
said
0 0

Harper once said when a Conservative moved over to the Liberal side when Martin was in he wouldnt have it when he was PM.

So why does he allow it when a Liberal moved to the conservative side??

Layton in Moncton
said
0 0

This just shows that in order to get anything done, Harpers needs a minister of everything...a former Liberal. Issue after issue, this government has dropped the ball. Call an election already, even a half organized Liberal party or the NDP are better than this bunch of wackadoos. No accountability, ministers whose personal lives intertwine with bikers, no environmental policy to speak of, and a tax cut that will put the government in the red for the first time since...they were LAST in power. This is the most tight lipped, top down managed, secretive government I can ever remember. So lets end it.


Barb
said
0 0

People make me laugh it wouldn't matter what Mr Harper did even if these people knew it was the right thing to do if the Liberals or the NDP didn't suggest it,"it's wrong." but yet when it comes to a vote the liberals will vote for it I hope voters will remember our tax dollars the liberals took from us & now think we believe them on this carbon tax I for one think not


CB
said
0 0

I find it interesting that people criticize Emerson for switching sides, then go on to praise Stephane Dion.

Dion himself admitted on CBC National TV that he was once a Separatist and a card-carrying member of the Parti Quebecois.

If Dion can switch sides from wanting to break our country up to wanting to lead it, why can't Emerson switch Federal parties. At least he was never a Separatist...


jane
said
0 0

* Michaeal
"A leader who does not adjust and rigidly sticks to an agenda will always fail because none of us can make all of the rules all of the time."

This explains why Stephen Harper will be defeated in the upcoming election. Thanks for reminding us.


Marty
said
0 0

I'm really tired of people saying the Conservatives are puppets or that PM Harper is bush number II. Truth is most of us Conservatives don't like Bush and that we are Proud Canadians not Americans. This type of fear mongering dates back to Preston Manning and if it wasn't for the Alliance under the leadership of MR. Manning who first push the Liberals to reduce or cut the deficit, who knows where we would be today...

MM
said
0 0

... Mr. Harper is doing an outstanding job - actually much better than I expected. The reality is that people always bitch about everything; I can just hear the comments if he did nothing about Bernier! Mr. Harper just proved that he is taking accountability very seriously. And reshuffling the cabinet is a great idea - it keeps people on their toes and makes them do the best they can to keep the job. Let the best shine and give the corrupt/stupid/ignorant the boot.


Ed
said
0 0

They've got one good minister: Emerson. Pretty soon he'll have been shifted into every portfolio available. Until they shift him into the Primeminister's seat, this will remain a terribly amature, and stumbling government.


Raj
said
0 0

It would be good to see the choice of cabinet based strongly on merit rather than by region/sex/ethnicity given the strong contingent of MPs from Western Canada. On the positive, hopefully after next October's election the Prime Minister will have a much larger pool from which to choose strong Cabinet members from Quebec. Also, the strong candidates that used to be attracted to the governing Liberals are now attracted to the governing Tories, one would imagine. The government is doing the best job it can with the hand dealt and will hopefully soon have a much stronger hand.


True Canadian
said
0 0

So many posts make me laugh. Believe me, if voter turnout increased, we'd have a Conservative majority versus a minority. High voter turnout will be bad for the Liberals, justifiably so.


Geoff
said
0 0

Nowhere does it say that to be in cabinet you have to be elected!

You should choose the best person for the job, and that's what I am sure the Prime Minister has done.

Prime Minister Stephen Harper gets things done. I am proud of most accomplishments. I am not happy with some things, but you can't make everyone happy.

Dion's new idea is to tax everything and tell everyone it will cost less.

If Liberals are unhappy, then we must be doing something right!!



David
said
0 0

Anyone living outside of Canada would think we were just a nation of men, primarily white, and drawn to ill-fitting suits and bad hair. This cabinet continues to reflect a narrow, as well as a narrow-minded perspective of our country. Once again, this suffle proves that without good cards in the deck, you'll keep on being dealt jokers.


Confused in Ontario
said
0 0

I honestly don't know what to think about our current governement. I have supported the Liberal party ever since the likes of Brian Mulroney and Mike Harris. They wreaked havoc both provincially and federally. However, I don't really respect Mr. Dion. I have voted in every election since I became eligible to vote. Sometimes my candidate wins, sometimes they lose. That's the way politics goes. My father always said "If you don't vote, you have no right to complain". My sentiments exactly. That's why I vote!!! I don't trust any of our country's current leaders.....Harper, Dion, or Layton. They all have an agenda and they'll say whatever they need to say to be elected by the small "voting" public in this country. If we as a nation really want things to change, we have to encourage higher voter turn out. So, next time there's an election, don't use excuses. Get out and vote if you don't like Harper and his band of cronies, or Dion, or Layton. It will be a vote for the lesser of three evils I guess.


Ottawa
said
0 0

OK - specifically to comment from Mark. "More American-style." And what exactly does this have to do with the states. Your comment does more to fuel to the fire that Canadians are anti-American. As if our lack of voter turn out has anything to do with the states? Can't we own up to being Canadian - not perfect - and apathetic? Good governance is something that only we can take responsibility for. By the way - voter turnout in the states for their population is hirer....as is participation in the whole electoral process. You can probably find something negative in that too....


Ki-Som
said
0 0

I sure hope Mr. Emerson enjoys what he has right now. When the next election comes up, he is never going to get re-elected, not after what he did to the voters in Vancouver. The voters wanted a Liberal.


Jason Daniel Baker
said
0 0

For the good of the Conservative Party I would hope that Harper would expand cabinet and appoint even more of the younger MPS.

In future elections having a slate of candidates with cabinet experience improves the chances of the party because it enhances its sophistication and reputation.

It also helps the party attract younger activists.

David Emerson is unelectable in the Left/Lib bastion constituency he represents so I'm not clear why he has to still be there.

Christian Paradis and James Moore (about time, Stephen. Why'd you wait?) are good picks.


Shamaro
said
0 0

Do I hear a lot of sour grapes about Mr. Emerson?

It's funny how quickly Liberals forget how people like Belinda Stronach flip flopped parties to become a cabinet minster.

I think Mr. Emerson would make a great foreign Affairs Minister. With his experience, it can only be a plus for someone like him to represent Canada abroad.



Helena
said
0 0

Cabinet swap = Rubbish out. Rubbish in..Notice the gender gap anyone??? Typical Harper.


Doug
said
0 0

Interesting. Harper appoints a Liberal to clean up his mess. I wonder if Emerson will be allowed to speak?


joe
said
0 0

great move by PM Harper...we need a solid MP like Emerson in this portfolio..as for the Opposition parties...they have shown(especially the spineless Liberals)they are all talk..and sit-on-your hands for action.All those embarrassing confidence motions they chose not to vote is anti-democratic..what are they waiting for ...a former NDP er to take over as party leader...


TangoJuliette
said
0 0

Time for Paul of BC, and all the other [partisan?]writers blessed with limited history info & retention, to look back and learn.

How many unelected people did previous Liberal Governments appoint to Cabinet? How many of these were boosted into the Senate? Of these, how many eventually went on to run for their riding office? AND -- of all these, how many even went on to become Liberal Prime Ministers of Canada?

Don't know? Too bad! Look and learn. Until then, don't squawk about unelected appointees. Nor about floor crossers.Even those who went from back bench to Cabinet - oddly enough most of the crossers for higher office flowed from the Conservative side to the Liberal side. They're all a part of our History. And if you don't know your history you might consider keeping mum lest observers realize just how much you really don't know...

tj

t.e.&o.e.


brenda
said
0 0

It's a fact that one can pick any day of the year/week to gripe about any politician or political situation, no matter which party.

The fact is however that the Conservatives have been getting things done, whether one agrees with those things or not. Better this than fence siting, indecision, procrastination, under Liberal rule.

Cabinet shifting is always a positive thing as it refreshens the house!


Intelligent IT Manager in Calgary
said
0 0

Giving a cabinet post to a turncoat is a Liberal tradition: recall Belinda Stronach and before that, Scott Brison. Yet, some would have us believe that the Conservatives started this years later with Emerson. (roll eyes)


Jason
said
0 0

You just gotta love how Harper keeps having to rely on a liberal to do a job properly. The rest of the nitwits in the CPC are an embarassment to Canadians and conservatives everywhere.


Phil
said
0 0

Verrrry interesting posts!

But notice how many are content to criticize and not look at whether the country is getting a cabinet that will work. For good or ill, the Cons ARE the government, despite the many occasions when the Libs could have given us a chance at an election, but chose instead to wimp out.

Just let them get on with running the country; after all, that's what they are paid to do.


Jack in BC
said
0 0

I read these comments all the time regarding any interesting issue and I am becoming more and more dismayed.

As some wise people have pointed out, partisan politics is silly. Stop critizing politicians based purely on the party they come from! No party in Canada is left or right wing - they are all pretty much centre.

Floor crossing isn't the greatest thing for voters but since the Liberals & Conservatives both have done it, isn't it a moot point?

I just want politicians that will best serve Canada, if that is David Emerson then great!

Please don't let us become like the US where everything is about the party and not the people.

I think Harper is doing a pretty good job and I am happy with the reduced taxes, both income and GST. It is basic economics people: taxes disturb the natural market equilibrium.

One final note, the Canadian debt was started by a Liberal not the Conservatives like some have asserted - it was Trudeau. I don't see how balanced budget in Canada is now equal to being in the red.


John G
said
0 0

Pretty smart move on the part of Mr. Harper. He needs to increase seats in Quebec and this was the opportunity to say to Quebec "Look I given you more ministers and more power, so vote for me." He doesn't have to worry about Alberta, because they will vote for a turnip if it's blue. As for Ontario, the Conservatives figure it's a lost effort anyway. So the next election will hinge on Quebec. We must give credit were credit is due, Mr. Harper is really working for Quebec votes. Conservative majority next election.


mike
said
0 0

The truth is, David Emerson was a solid minister when he was a liberal and he is still a solid minister as a Conservative.

He is a good leader with proven managerial abilities and he has a track record of getting the job done in the business world, as a liberal and as a Conservative, so whats the problem?

Are the liberals worried that Emerson's new appointment will put him in the spotlight more thus a better opportunity to show his skills and abilities?


Tori
said
0 0

We may not entirely support all of the PM's choices but at least he makes them.

Shuffling cabinet is just like any big business, if it is not working quite right, move people around til it does.

As far as a politician crossing the floor, who cares, everyone wants to be on the winning team.
This happens all the time, I don't know why anyone is upset or surprised.


Digger
said
0 0

You talk about minority governments being caused by low voter turn-out? We do not want leadership in this country because that would take hard choices and we would moan and complain. The days of good leadership are over till we get a major crisis and someone HAS to do something whether we like it of not. We are not a democracy that elects a LEADER... we are merely leaving under a populist system that governs by polls.


Andy N
said
0 0

Excellent leadership from Prime Minister Harper. He has the fortitude to do the right thing, and not let the media or spin dictate what's best for the nation.


Dan
said
0 0

LOL.
the handout finally comes in spades. I wouldn't trust this guy with anything.
One minute he's a liberal, next, and after some free gifts, hes a tory.
Another of the real honest political types in our government.


Ed Broham - Calgary
said
0 0

As our great PM said, "we are on track." I think the country need more great people like Mr. Harper and less people like the other parties leader.

This cabinet shuffle is important to keep our Canada strong and free under the right type of government


Louise Timoffee
said
0 0

Politics as usual. It's all one big scandal. What I would like to know is why a certain gentleman was unable to protest peacefully and had to turn his sign over to the police? Do we not have the freedom to express our opinions?


Ron
said
0 0

Tell me which politicians in which party have never crossed the floor? Didn't Dosanjh cross over from NDP, Raymond Chan from the Progressive Conservative, Peter McKay's ex-girl friend from Reform, Bob Rae from NDP, etc, etc. Every politician is calling the kettle black from whichever party. This is Canadian politics and characters of Canadian politicians. Musical chairs on Parliament Hill all the time, changing partners behind the scene. What sort of caliber are all these politicians who pull wool over their constituents' eyes. They are really phantoms of Parliament Hill. The Liberals were the founders of these operas on Parliament Hill in Canada. Anyway, Harper, get on with what you have to do for the common good of all Canadians and leave all these jokers behind. Prove your mettle with guts, gumption and gusto until the next GE.


Ken Lawson
said
0 0

That is all we need, Emmerson is China's number one Sucker in Canada.

Sometimes you have to ask tough questions which Policians are scared to Answer. Has BC become an extended Province of China much like Tibet and Taiwan. Training China Police in BC regardless of who is paying is a JOKE. while the "Thugs In Beijing" are still in Power, Campbell has to go, along with John Yap


lynn holmes
said
0 0

Another deck chair shuffle. Overdue to get back to giving Canada the good government they gave us when first elected and just did what is right, Not forever seeing which way the wind is blowing. Forget the arms buildup and split the RCMP. The enemy is in a basement next door not going down the road at 10km too fast or over parking. Emerson is one of the good guys, the ligerals did not fit him. Amen.


Greig
said
0 0

It's Prime Minister Harpers Cabinet and his choices - good on him.

The lefty's will whine about any/every news item, because it is what they do best. HO-HUM!


Charlie
said
0 0

I am not questioning Mr. Emmerson's abilities as a minister, I just question his moral judgement. Whether anyone likes it or not, "Politics is Partisan" and to say otherwise is naive. The two main political parties of the land have very different philosophical beliefs on which direction this country should and must go.

So in conclusion, my biggest concern is honour and integrity. We do live in a country with party politics, and to campaign under false pretenses,(no matter what party you belong to) is gross misrepresentation.


JJ
said
0 0

The conservatives can do what they want with Emerson. The people of his riding have long memories. They won't re-elect someone who betrayed their trust. A trait that is all too common within the conservative/reform/alliance party.


eskiefan
said
0 0

Maybe Mr. Emerson got just as fed up with the Liberals as the rest of the country did.



Walter
said
0 0

Excellent Choice


User Tools

Share with your social Network:

 

Advertisement

Related Stories

Contest

CTV.ca Special

David Emerson

David Emerson

Politically shrewd, experienced, a closer look at the 'Minister of Everything'

User Tools

About the tools

Need to get in touch with CTV? You can email the CTV web team using the 'Feedback' button.

Share it with your network of friends

Share this CTV article or feature with your friends. Click on the icon for your favourite social networking or messaging system, and follow the prompts.

Share this article with Facebook

Share this article with Digg

Share this article with Newsvine

Share this article with delicious

Share this article.
Send Email

Share this article with Twitter

Share this article with StumbleUpon

Share this article with Reddit

Share this article with Yahoo! Buzz

Most Viewed News Stories

View More News Stories

Most Talked about Stories

I applaud the budget, even though Health Care and education may stay unscathed. Sadly this cannot last and I worry to later this year where cuts will become enviable. If anything, this provides the Wildrose Alliance plenty of ammo when an election is called.

J Stad

Alberta going for broke with record $4.7B budget deficit

Got something to say? Share on CTV News

News Categories

Shows