Harper meeting with GG in bid to save government

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Harper meeting with GG in bid to save government

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CTV Newsnet: Correspondents on Harper's arrival

Canada AM: Correspondents discuss the rare nationally televised address, saying all put in a lackluster performance

CTV National News: Chief Political Correspondent Craig Oliver with reaction to Harper's address to the nation

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

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

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

CTV National News: National Affairs Correspondent Lisa LaFlamme gauges public perception of the happenings in Ottawa

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CTV.ca News Staff

Date: Thu. Dec. 4 2008 9:41 AM ET

Prime Minister Stephen Harper has arrived at Rideau Hall and is meeting with Gen. Michaelle Jean to ask to have Parliament suspended in order to keep his government alive.

Harper wasted no time, arriving at the residence in a motorcade and quickly entering the building through the side door.

He is expected to address reporters after the meeting.

"It's going to be fascinating to see how long this meeting goes," CTV's Rosemary Thompson told CTV Newsnet.

"He's going to have to make his case to the Governor General. I don't think he's going to just say 'I want to prorogue.' He's going to have to make a case for why he wants to do it."

Jean returned home early from a central European tour on Wednesday to deal with the political crisis that has gripped the nation.

The Liberals and New Democrats have formed a coalition agreement, with the support of the Bloc Quebecois, and have petitioned Jean to give them a chance to win the confidence of the House of Commons if the government falls.

On Wednesday night Harper made a rare nationally televised address.

In the five-minute pre-taped broadcast Harper said the opposition plans to oust his government and seize power would cripple the country's economy.

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

Harper also signaled he would be willing to work with the opposition parties in order to deliver an economic plan that will help Canada navigate perilous economic times.

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

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

Later on Wednesday, Liberal Leader Stephane Dion took to the airwaves after a major delay that saw national networks filling time as they waited for the tape to arrive.

He said the Conservatives have done little to help Canadians cope with the global economic crisis.

"Stephen Harper still refuses to propose measures to stimulate the Canadian economy," said Dion. "His mini-budget last week demonstrated that his priority is partisanship and settling ideological scores.

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

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

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

NDP and Bloc respond

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

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

The opposition began to cobble together their coalition after the Tories proposed last week to cut public funding for political parties as a part of their fall economic update.

The update also lacked a sufficient stimulus package, the opposition has said.

If Jean refuses to grant prorogation and the scheduled Monday vote on the government's fiscal update does go forward, it is widely expected the opposition parties will vote down the confidence motion and topple the government.

If that happens, Jean would have to decide whether to send Canadians to the polls for another election, or grant the coalition the opportunity to govern.

Under the terms of the deal, Liberal Leader Stephane Dion would lead the coalition, and therefore serve as interim prime minister, until a leadership convention in May.

Comments are now closed for this story

Blake
said

If the game is hockey and Gretzky is a gentleman, I'd caution Harper & Flaherty that they've already been issued a number of unsportsmanlike conducts and that some of the best players on Team Canada come from Quebec.

Nathan
said

I've been saying for years that Stephen Harper's objective is to cleave Alberta off of Canada if he can't coerce Canada to go the way he wants. For anyone who can see a few moves ahead, he has pulled the trigger.

After Dion resigns in a few months, we're going to have to find a way to entice Dion to stay on in a cabinet role - under the new leader - to battle the Alberta separatists.

During a global economic crisis, Harper has attacked women, labor, & democracy; engineered a political crisis; and triggered a unity crisis. Clearly this man has unrestrained, destructive priorities. What deception & devious antics might we expect in March if the GG caves under the pressure and blocks Monday's confidence vote?

I AGAIN predict Premier Stephen Harper of Alberta, making problems bigger than Danny Williams ever has, in the not-so-distant future. We need to see a few moves ahead to make sense of the current shenanigans. These are cold & calculated moves; Canada is Harper's victim.

Jon London
said

I just watched the speeches from Harper, Dion and Layton.

Come on......You really going to buy into this coalition?

Harper, looked smooth and relaxed. He did. Looked like a leader anyway.

Dion, what was that, a YouTube quality date tape? If you want to lead, stop begging.

Layton, Jack, dude, people went to bed last night worried about you causing their country to fall apart. The election campaign is over. Time for a new speech.

If Canadians are so outraged, let's go to the polls, vote for the party you feel best demonstrates the ability to lead through this recession, but don't re-elect any of the party leaders.

Stay tuned kiddies!

Greg - Oshawa
said

It may be within law and practice that we can have a coalition take over, it has become very clear that the coalition does not have the support of the country. I find it hard to understand how we can have a coalition government that does not have the confidence of Canadians.

Canadians are becoming more out-spoken about their views.
There is no question that Canadians rejected Dion as PM. I don't see anything has changed on this.

Joe C
said

I think that this parliament needs to be prorogued in order for all parties to calm down and try to work out their differences. If, afterwards, the Prime Minister continues to lack confidence in the House, then Her Excellency should appoint a new Prime Minister without calling an election.

Bonnie
said

People are losing homes,car and Job and WE will be the ones to pay for another election.
No one helps the little people

James
said

Please Governor General Jean, do not allow Harper the opportunity to delay this situation any longer. The majority of MP's plus the majority of Canadians that voted for them do not want Harper as our Prime Minister. Please do the right thing and allow the coalition to form a new government. This is the right thing to do.

Martin
said

I think the GG should make the right decision and suspend parliement. The coalition is not good for Canada.
As far as the media playing up that Harper's speech is damaging relations with Quebec, I would just like to say to all Quebecers that Harper is not against Quebec. He, like the rest of us, is against the Bloc--which is a "seperatist" group. By definition, they are trying to break apart Canada, not help it. Looking out for Quebec's interests should not include isolating it from the rest of Canada.

Dave W
said

I think that the Governor General is our last defense regarding our own Canadian parlimentary traditions.

I personally don't care if the "rest of the world" has coalitions or not. Our tradition is the party with the most seats forms the government. I can only see varying this in emergency situations.
This is not an emergency. This is simply a political ideological difference on how to deal with an economic crisis.

Also, the thought of the Liberal leadership convention on May 6th effectively being an election of my Prime Minister is objectionable to me.

Sharon Jolicoeur/Abbotsford, B.C.
said

We just had an election.
As far as who has the majority in the house?
The coalition doesn't! They continue to say that the Bloc has vowed not to vote against them on Confidence motions.
So, if there's a confidence motion they don't agree with, will they stick to their word or will they vote? If they honor their word (a rare entity these days for parties), then the "majority" is only 114 seats! That's worse than where the Conservatives are now in the number of seats.
Also, people we know well, that have been long-time liberals, are disgusted with the Coalition.
I think the NDP and Liberals are doing long-time damage to their idealogies for short-term gain.
-S. Jolicoeur

Larry NL
said

How was Prime Minister Harper's address to Canadians?

Impressive--- 3656 27%
Did the Job-- 4148 30%
Disappointing-5820 43%

If I take did the job because it came in second at 30% and add it to Impressive with 27% of the vote and form a coalition of the two, then the Prime Minister
"Did The Job" .
these two losers got more votes combined than the Disappointing category did at 43%.
This is how Jack Layton and Stephane Dion and a bunch off stupid liberal backers interpret how an election is run. If that is democracy, then give me something else, because the majority of Canadians don't like it.

Mark - Vegreville, AB
said

Less than two months since the general election and we are going through this garbage. So much for the promise that everyone would get along. I blame Harper for pulling a bone headed move, but I also blame the Liberals and NDP for the ensuing chaos. They are supposed to be looking out for the country's best interest and everyone is playing politics.

The only party that is carrying out the task as intended is the Bloc. They are being truly successful in tearing this country apart. The separatists must be so proud.

Cory - Toronto
said

After watching Dion and his highschool production, video...I'm sure the GG isn't going to hand over the greatest country on earth to three people who can't even get a tape made hours before it airs. My Liberal friends think that by the LPC doing this (getting into bed with the Bloc and NDP), it will only cause them to sink further. I tend to agree. And Iggy knows it.

To te GG...I, along with the majority of the country (Conservatives, Liberals, and NDP alike), do not want this coalition to proceed. I ask that you allow this to simmer over the holidays and let Canadians have time to reflect on what this means for Canada. Thank you.

ScottS
said

I really think the best outcome here is another election, and immediately, now that the Liberal and NDP have exposed themselves. For years now, we've heard them saying the Conservatives had a secret and hidden agenda. Now, for all the world to see, they've exposed themselves, as the lying vermin they are, and proved that "they themselves" are the ones with the hidden agenda. Only thing is, this hidden agenda was even more dangerous and radical than anyone could have ever foreseen or conceived.

Blair J
said

It seems that the Liberal Video was cobbled together at the last minute just like this "coalition", what they (Libs/NDP/Bloc) are doing is not illegal but morally illegal and if Stephane Dion and Jack Layton want power so bad, then ask the electorate for a mandate. The Liberals and NDP have no mandate, no vision and nothing real to offer Canadians

Albertan
said

Steve, just remember that the people of Quebec voted for the Bloc!

At a time when the economy is in crisis, and people are losing their jobs daily, Mr. Harper wants to take a nice 2 month holiday.
Let's get this coalition WORKING!

Debbie Paiement
said

I give Prime Minister Harper credit for speaking the truth about having a separatist party having some control over our country. If a country in Europe or Asia had a part of their country trying to separate, it would be looked at as horrible. Why do we allow people who want to leave our country make decisions regarding it. Mr. Harper was not attacking all Quebecers, only "separatists".

Paul - Orillia
said

another election would be foolish and a waste of time. After all Harper has been involved now in 5 Federal Elections in the past 8 years. That's a WASTE of $1.5 Billion mainly for his purpose.

TO prorogue parliament for his purpose is deceiving parliament.

The voters did NOT vote for a Prime Minister like a President... they voted under the constitution for a Parliament, the House of Commons.

The Coalition represents the majority of the house. Time for a change from this greedy control freak Harper. At least the Coalition has a common front for 1.5 years and that's the economy.

jim at ktchener
said

Canadians might hate Harper, however do they like the idea of Quebec getting $500 million for higher education as the initial price for support?
Quebec 8 billion equalization. while Ontario get 250 million
Now thats Liberal eh!

Doug
said

@Blake
The problem with the "Quebec" in your analogy isn't the "Players"...it is the person that is representing Quebec who want to break-up this "team"

Dr J in SK
said

Harper again showed his leadership qualities...we did NOT vote for this coalition in the last election...those of you who mistakenly think you did should be asking for another election so that you can...the GG should abide by the PM's request...

Glen
said

the silly season, filled with paper tiger dreams of the opposition, buoyed by their thin aspirations and responses to their weak positions. Nathan: your remarks reflect a bit of paranoia.

Bruce from Calgary
said

NDP and the Bloc teaming up with a loser to run the country? And people go on about 62 percent of the popular vote. So what. If the 62 percent was for a single party, sure, but it's not. You can fudge with the numbers all you want, but he still won the election. Does anyone remember when the Bloc was the official opposition? Remeber that, if a coalition gets in.

AnnaW
said

Oh yes, just what I want, to live in a country led by a bunch of whining socialist separatists. Canada spoke during the election. Why don't the boys just accept their defeat like men and work together for the country, not against it to destroy it.

Brett in Montréal
said

Harper has to stop clinging to power -- this is ridiculous and against the rules of Parliament. I have never seen such a despicable and desperate party like the CONS who have the most disposible morality that I have ever seen. Follow the rules and suffer the consequences Harper -- you have lost more than the confindence of the house of Parliament, you have shown what a bitter and divisive man you are and you will never have a majority now that you have alienated Quebec. You are the worst Prime Minister I have ever seen.

PhilipHauser
said

"Coalition is a Crazy Idea"
Davide Peterson, former Ontario premier in today's London Free Press

Tim in Halifax
said

Dion has nothing to lose here. He is stepping down as leader in 5 months. The Liberals will do nothing for those 5 months except quietly get their election warchest loaded up. Then the new leader will trigger an election. You heard it here first.

Dave in Ontario
said

If the liberals and the ndp had enough seats to form a coalition government on their own against Mr. Harper then maybe yes let them try BUT when the libs and ndp jump into bed with card carrying separatists then I call that a traitorous act against Canada. The bloc's sole purpose in life is to separate from Canada by any means possible or at the very least bleed the rest of Canada dry for Quebec. This coalition and any Canadian who supports it are traitors to Canada.

Abby U
said

The stakes are too high, especially with the Bloc holding national policy veto power and ultimately the purse strings coupled with the hostile rhetoric that is increasing West/East divide. Canada's parliament must take a step back and allow Conservative/Liberal/NDP MPs to catch their breath. If this coup, for lack of a better word, takes place, we are all going to pay heavily for it: Canada, as we know it, will certainly cease to exist. Every MP should think hard and long on what is best way forward for Canada.

PrairieDog - Dean R.
said

"Nathan: After Dion resigns in a few months, we're going to have to find a way to entice Dion to stay on in a cabinet role - under the new leader - to battle the Alberta separatists."

Allow me to respond, thank you. Dion is going to go to Alberta and fight the separatists there?? That is one of the biggest dreams I have ever read.
Point number 2: Alberta doesn't stand alone any longer. There are three other western provinces that are about to boil over, as well. The west IS NOT Quebec. Once the train starts up here in the west, it won't be easy to stop. Unlike Quebec, the people of the west will actually do it. Not just stamp our feet until a government caves in.

Be careful what you wish for.

PM
said

Mr. Harper should be arrested for treason. He is doing everything he can to split up this country. If he is sooooo worried about the Bloc, why not make a deal with the Liberals to let him govern with their input? Because he can't work with anyone else for the good of the country. He wants absolute power.

Gail
said

Bottom line is, we, THE PEOPLE did not agree to this. We live in a country where we have the right to vote, & decide who governs our country. I thought it was pretty clear after the election EXACTLY what Canadians thought of Dion. Now he is forcing himself upon us. This simply cannot be allowed to happen. If this is allowed, what kind of precident is this setting for the future, for other leaders who aren't elected in...can they also force themselves on us.

Please fellow Canadians, regardless of the party you support, choose DEMOCRACY over a particular party & stand up for our Constitutional rights of freedom, & our vote.

GOD BLESS CANADA!!!!!

Jason D
said

One word.

Treason

Kris
said

If Harper had replaced Jean in July after the Morgentaler fiasco, as he should have, we would not be in this situation. The new GG would simply tell the opposition that they either stand for election or support the government. Period.

Colin in Bedford
said

There is an often cited quotation from J.F. Kennedy: "Great crises produce great men". If this statement is true, then clearly we are not in a "great crisis".

Regrettably, the crisis that we are experiencing is a crisis in leadership. The leaders of all the parties (Conservative, Liberal, NDP) are either individually or collectively not "up to the job". Harper is a self-centred, rather mean- spirited bully who puts his own aspirations well above the well being of the country. Dion is a somewhat pathetic and unfortunate man, who is desperate to avoid being the only Liberal leader who did not become PM. Layton is a shameless opportunist who sees this as the only chance that an NDP leader will ever have to sit on the governing side of the House of Commons.

Harper did an oustanding job in building the Conservative party to where it is today. However, the characteristics of a "builder" are clearly different from the characteristics necessary to be a leader once the building is done. If he were a true leader, this mess never would have happened in the first place. His obvious and glaring inadequacies as a leader have permitted this crisis to occur. Regrettably, the equal ineptness of Dion and Layton have augmented and worsened the crisis.

It is sad to see how hard and passionate these so-called leaders are when it is their own self-interest on the line. If only they worked this hard to address the other issues of concern affecting our country.

The Conservatives are the single party with the most seats; they deserve to be in power. However, they deserve a better leader, and so does Canada.

Dan Livingstone
said

Proroguing parliament would be a disastrous precedent. It will give any future PM the ability to suspend parliament when he does not get his way. This would fundamentally change the basic functioning of our democracy.

dwight ottawa
said

We are in tough economic times right now. It is not the time to suspend parlaiment for any reason.
It is time to do a confidence
vote and move on. If we end up with a coalition government so be it. the
government business has to be done at any cost.

Sherry Katrinia in Ottawa
said

Bonnie - you think the colition thought about the "little people". no, they thought about themselves. It started because they wanted power, they saw the chance when Harper tried to take from all MPs and put back to the people. People are being laid off etc and the MPs go up in arms over losing the money from each vote? Have the election and I'll bet the three grab as you go parties will not combine and enter only one person each riding against the Conservatives. Too many of them would not give up their jobs. Call the election and PEOPLE OF CANADA - GET OUT ALL OF YOU AND VOTE! It's time WE put a stop to this - we're supposed to be the ones in charge - LET'S PROVE IT!! Make sure your friends, family and neighbours vote - let's give them what for! Whoever wins then, wins - but with ALL Canadians that can vote getting out there - why is that so hard?

Jeff from the Stock
said

well that mess of a LIberal anoucement should seal the deal for many..This coalition isnt ready for Primetime..they are a bunch of fumbling idiots..

Way to Go Harper.keep doing what you're doing and things will work out fine.

I might have had some worry about this coalition if not lead by a complete fool.

for anyone still thinking Dion should lead...Give me a break..

HS
said

Suspend the parliament, Looks like a banana republic motive. Canada needs to have presidential form of Govt and get rid of the queen as head of state

Moi
said

Lets be honest. Last night Harper did a great job of alienating Quebec. He showed absolutely no contrition in his speech. Maybe if he had shown to be humble and admit that his government errored possibly things might turn out different. But he did not. I suggest that the GG should force these 4 leaders to sit down and hash things out. Harper should get rid of Flaherty immediately. That would be a great first step.

Brian
said

I hope asks to stop getting paid too. If I went to my boss and said I don't want to do something and I will do it in two months time, guess what would happen to me.

T Sanders
said

Mr. Harper may not have to ask for a delay, since wise Liberals are recognizing how tenuous this coalition is, and the negative effects it may have on the longevity of their party and political futures, especially under a leader they would rather see disappear.

Tammy, Stoney Creek
said

Harper is honest, forthright and a man of integrity. He won our vote- he earned it. Do you really think that you want to be lead by someone who usurped his way there- someone who had to use rebellion and trickery to get to the top. Think about the kind of leader you really want and what he is made of.

Paul
said

I feel the right thing to do is have an election

Joan Sonnenburg Perth
said

I'm growing tired of this argument that Harper should remain in power because he was elected by a minority of Canadians. The majority did not vote for him. That's why we have a minority government. If the other elected representatives can agree on running the country, they have the majority of voter support. Harper is a self seeking opportunist who is doing more harm to this country with his comments on Quebec than Gilles Duceppe ever could.

Nick in Gatineau
said

After watching Harper's horrendous performance outlining that 'it is understood that Canadians elect a PM when they vote for a party', followed by Lawrence Cannon's Fictional Electoral rhetoric concerning a supposed non-democratic idea of a coalition, I find it very hard to believe that the GG would be drawn to help Harper at all.

When an MP starts quoting laws that do not exist as the basis of an argument, one has to wonder what they are doing in politics ?

International Law, and the very basis of democratic principles state that a coalition can form when there is understanding between the parties involved. In this situation there is.

There can even be a coalition between an opposition party and the minority party in power if they feel it to be the right thing to do. The conservatives never thought of doing this while in power but when in opposition they did - when they saw it would not work, they dropped the idea.

Harper stated that people voted for their PM - we did not. The name of the PM only appeared in 1 ridding - his own. Nowhere did it appear in the 300 + riddings.

So far Harper to make the claim is a fictional law that we Canadians, and indeed International law sees as an understanding.

The same kind of understanding that applies to coalitions.

If the Conservatives want to see a box for 'accept a coalition' and 'vote for your PM' on your ballot, then they should have written a law for Elections Canada. They did not.

So if they are quoting something that does not exist, once in a majority, change the law.

That's how things get done.

The Coalition should be recognized immediately by the GG.

bob
said

Tradition, unfair and western separatists against Quebec separatists. That seems to be all we hear from conservatives lately.

This is what i answer to these comments

Tradition: lets do like we did in the past, moving forward is bad. Thats about what resumes the tradition argument. Is that the way we want canada to be ruled ?

Unfair: learn how politics works. we elect representants, 1 representant = 1 vote, 308 representants in the chamber. if 160 representants see fit to replace Harper sa PM, they have every rights, and even they HAVE to do it if they think Harper can not lead the country anymore.

Separatist vs separatists: well i dont know why the west is complaining that Quebec is evil and they are good when all they do is copy the Quebec of the PAST. Is that what the west sees as tradition? (refer to the first comment i told)

jeff huntsville
said

Nathan calls it right on,
Its like living in OZ with the wicked "witch of the west" versus the "wicked witch of the east" and hopefully a "wizard somewhere in between". Let us not forget where Steven Harper was created, he was created from a fiasco of right wing politicos wanting more autonomy for the west reform/alliance/consertative with Preston Manning leading the rally The Bloc is not so much a separtist party now but more for a better deal and autonomy for quebecers from the federal govt.Steven Harpers agenda for years was the same for western canada. It is almost laughable the hipocrisy of the man. I think his dream is for the west to join the U.S or even better that he might be President of the United Western Alliance with Calgary as its capital. Dion and Layton or the only "true" federalists in the house.Hopefully the coalition can bring some calm and sanity to situation.

JB
said

I think a suspended Parliament would be just as effective as this "coalition government". There's a reason Dion/Layton doesn't want another election and it's not because they're thinking in the best interests of Canadians.

Lets have another election... maybe we'll have a better turnout this time.

Mo from NL
said

Unfortunately, Mr. Harper was elected as the world began a severe economic crisis. This began his downfall. His "slow to react" attitude towards this sealed his fate. I am tired of hearing the "I did not vote for a coalition attitudes". I did not either, but where would we be if the parties during their campaign came out and said; "Vote for us or we will form a coalition to topple the government." Who would have voted for this if this statement had happened. No One.
If you voted during the last election then you did vote for the PM or the coalition who ever they are. Unfortunately for us now that is how it is, like it or not. Let the constitution work like it is supposed to. Maybe if more of the registered voters turned out during the last election our great country would not be in the turmoil it is today.Finally the "People" did not vote for Harper, Dion, or Layton for PM, their party members voted them as leader of their parties. Therefore by winning the election the leader got to be the PM.
For all those people out there who need more information about how our goverment works or is supposed to work please read this.

http://www.mapleleafweb.com/features/coalition-governments-canada

A.F. Butters
said

No Coalition. All of you have to go - Harper, Dion, Layton, Rae, Flaherty, Duceppe. New election for Canadians, about Canadians. Time to take back our votes.

It galls me that you folks have the temerity to encourage us to vote strategically for you and your parties and when we do that, you flip us the bird.. It is the height of arrogance and disrespect.

We didn't vote for you folks to create a big constitutional crisis. We voted for you to govern effectively. You haven't done that and you don't ever seem capable of doing so. None of you have any credibility anymore. Sorcerer's Apprentices each and everyone of you.

Resign, Resign, Resign. All of you. Now.

A.F. Butters
London, Ontario

John Fraser
said

The present government has unnecessarily precipitated a political crisis in this country rather than take appropriate steps to deal with the economic crisis. Shameful remarks from our Prime Minister have re- ignited the fear that many Canadians have of Quebec Separatists. The last thing we need at this moment is this kind of fear mongering. Mr. Harper has quite frankly shown disdain for all Quebecers and has caused further disunity precisely at the very time he should be promoting national unity. Hopefully, the Governor General will not grant a request to suspend Parliament.

Mark from Edmonton
said

It strikes me that when I voted liberal, I voted for liberal, not liberal NDP and the block, not even against the conservatives. Why are the liberals treating my vote as if this is the way I voted?

Doug Abernethy
said

Mr. Dion made the following statement "The Harper Conservatives have lost the confidence of the majority of members of the House of Commons, In our democracy, in our parliamentary system, in our constitution this means that they have lost the right to govern." Correct me Mr. Dion but in our democracy, in our parliamentary system, and in our constitution, the Prime Minister is elected by Canadian citizens, not overthrown by conspirators.
Let’s forget about whether or not Mr. Harper has done sufficient planning for the financial crisis. Since Confederation, our country has stood for democracy. If the Governor General accepts this proposal, which is nothing less than a bloodless coup, our values and everything our country stands for will go down the drain. If this proposition passes, it will be the first time ever that a Canadian government has been toppled by a confidence vote and replaced by an opposition coalition without an election. Canadians must understand that this is more than just gaining an opposition coalition with no election. If this is allowed to happen, it will set a precedent for years to come. If this coalition takes power now, the idea of electing representatives (an idea which we are pushing in Afghanistan at this second) becomes optional. And that’s the most dangerous thing about what’s happening.
With all that being said, I am not a Stephen Harper fan. I prefer the current minority government. The Conservatives still rely on the Opposition to pass legislature, which keeps them honest. In a majority government, which is what the proposed Opposition Coalition would be, it is too easy for the party in power to dominate the House. We need to stop this now, before we go down a very slipppery bad road.

Krys ross
said

Mr. Harper has already forced one unnecessary election on the tax payers, breaking his own law to do so. Under Mike Harris, Jim Flaherty engineered the structural deficit in Ontario and sold off provincial assets paving the way for Ontario's economic meltdown. Mr. Harper was not elected by the majority of Canadians, a fact that he seems incapable of accepting. He and Mr. Flaherty are committed to the same economic policies that created the economic crisis we face--policies that pander to the wealthy. Wealth is power, as his cynical move to cut funding to the other political parties clearly illustrates. In this economic crisis we are witnessing exactly how "power corrupts." I thank the Coalition from preventing Harper in gaining absolute power.

TVic
said

Little Stevie Harper is going to have to learn that he has to share the sand box with other the other kiddies and he is going to have to stop throwing sand in their face and stop his snits and pouting. In a minority government you have to learn to give and take and cut deals. The opposition figured that out. Now little Stevie will have to do the same whether he is PM or in opposition. Stop the stupidity and govern the country!!

Beth Fitzpatrick
said

After watching Harper's speech last night I am more convinced than ever that he needs to resign. He's only goal now is to divide the country even more with he's separatist rhetoric.
Harper has already proven he has no desire to work with the other parties, that's why we are in this position now.
His speech did nothing to bring the parties nor the country together, instead he continues to blame others for his on shortcomings, admitting he was wrong is not in his vocabulary, to bad.

proud conservative
said

Harper is not trying to get Alberta to seperate. Most Albertans feel that it is only a Conservative government that has their interests at heart. They feel that way through experience. NEP, getting the finger from Trudeau etc,Liberals cater to Ontario and Quebec because they know if they keep them happy ,then they will vote for them and the rest of the country can go to hell.I don't know of anyone who hates Quebec but it is the bloc that they don't like.How would you like it if ALBERTA had a seperatist party with lots of seats in parliment and we forced you to drill for oil in every back yard. How would you like that ,huh. Really let the man that was voted in govern. MERRY CHRISTMAS,GOD BLESS

Andy in Cambridge
said

to James:

The majority of MP's plus the majority of Canadians that voted for them do not want Harper as our Prime Minister."

one thing you're leaving out, is that the majority of Canadians are against this coalition

Geoff
said

My vote is for the GG to ask Harper, Leyton, and Dion to resign immediately. This might allow for lesser ego to sit down in a room together and act in a manner which is best for the country.

Harper arrogance is too much. Dion and Leyton are both motivated by power. The coalition was going to give a 30 billion boost, now they are not sure, they we going to have a financial advisor board, now that has fallen apart, The Liverals can't even make a decent video tape and deiver it on time, yet they think the man they said a few weeks ago wasn't fit to run the party should now run the country. Then they call Harper a hypocrit. Disgusting!!!

Maritimer living in Ontario
said

Harper may have slipped not announcing a package for the economic problems at an earlier date.However,Nathan,the West may split BUT if anyone is going to split this country it will be the coalition.Jack Layton is worst than the Liberals hes so hungry for power.Dion just fumbles along, and the Bloc separtists only care about Quebec and are laughing all the way to the bank ,If the West split its because they didnt give too many votes to the Liberals or NDP and no one except Quebec voted for the Bloc.The parties should be working together to solve this crisis .If the Coalition takes power Canada is in big trouble,Quebec will be the only one who gains, and Nathan,I bet Quebec separates first

Warren
said

Yes we really want a so called Prime Minister who leaves the Canadian people waiting for an hour to give a message that was shot by a high school students cell phone.A lot of hot air alright, what a joke,are you glad now Layton,that you are in bed with Dion and Duceppe. And by the way Liberals,and NDP,I wrote this all by myself and didn't need the conservatives to do it for me.

Jay, Ottawa
said

They need to have the confidence vote to get this over with now. As far as I see it they're all elected MPs and however they wish to organise themselves in order to form a government is perfectly legal and democratic. What's not democratic is suspending the House to avoid a vote that could bring down your government. We've all seen stories like that across the world and were disgusted to think the leader would suspend democracy because it wasn't convenient for them at that moment.

If there are enough MPs to form a functioning coalition and they feel they can offer a better alternative then go for it. That's how the British Parliamentary system was designed.

Let's stop arguing about opinions and accept the facts. This is democratic because everyone involved was just elected to the House by citizens of Canada.

Doug
said

Mr Harper is the most statesmanlike, principled, Prime Minister that we have had in many, many years. I am glad that he did not stoop to the level of the unprincipled, three-headed cabal that is trying to grab power from the elected majority party. I am proud that he did not compromise to help the many squirming, uncomfortable, liberals out of the mess that the incompetent lame duck leader Dion has them in. If his government falls, we will have lost the best possible government for these economic times. Good-bye to lower taxes and paying off our national debt.

Jamie Lee, Port Colborne, ON
said

Canada is run by a single party with the most number of seats. Coalition is two parties that are trying to overthrow the governement with a loophole. That is treason in my eyes. They are traitors to their own parties and to Canadian democracy. Conservatives combined two right wing parties together to form one party to get in power. Liberals and NDP would never do that. You will be lucky they will agree on anything after this. Sometimes its better to cut your losses for the long term gain. If we need an election for the stability of the country, then lets get it over with and have a majority for once, or perhaps a referendum. If the coalition goes through, it will be nothing but trouble for us and in May with a new Liberal leader we will be right back here again.

Adam
said

I am not opposed to the idea of proroguing this government until cooler heads may prevail provided that the time is constructive. With this in mind, can a case be made for a referendum on the matter for or against a ruling collation.

James
said

Our system of government is a parliamentary democracy and a constitutional monarchy. Queen Elizabeth II is Queen of Canada and Head of State.

In 1926, when Canadian Governor General Lord Byng refused Prime Minister Mackenzie King's request for a dissolution of parliament.

In principle, the Crown could overrule a Governor-General.

Paul from Ontario
said

Well, I like the hockey thing. It is really to the point. Harper should not only be given a penalty but a game misconduct and suspension from the league altogether.

Come on folks, we do need a change and a coalition would do that. Many say this will break up the country, well look at it a past member of the Reform party now prime minister.

Don't forget Reform was a regional party that wants everything for the west and out of Canada if it did not get its way. Now they have their way. Only as the PCs.

As Nathan said, Harper is the trigger and Canada the victim. He gets his way. Long live Governer Harper of the 51st state

Connie
said

Please GG stop the madness!

Keep the 3 stooges away from trying to take control.

Absolutely, Not one of them is qualified to bring Canada throught these unprecedented times. What a farse!

Let's not forget how Dion and the Liberals lost so many seats and so did the Bloc in the last election.

Make them work with Harper - collective efforts to help the economy. Not just their powerplay chance to take control!

Gary, NL
said

There is something crucial that approximately 50% of Canadians are failing to notice. It goes quite beyond their own lack of understanding about the definition of democracy and the fact that forming a coalition that can govern with the confidence of the House is a true demonstration of democracy at work, rather than a Coup d'Etat or anti-democratic as some of the more melodramatic among us have phrased this. What these people are failing to notice is that in times of near unprecedented economic and financial turmoil, governments everywhere are exercising unheard of cooperation and non-partisanship in efforts to deal with these crippling problems. Our neighbours to the South are even working together to solve the crisis. And what are we doing? Stephen Harper, our "beloved" PM, rather than make an effort to reach out and for once do what is best for Canada is advancing his own agenda once again. He could try to fix the eceonomy, but instead he attempted to indulge his own desire for ideological revenge and petty ambition in using a crisis to try and destroy his opponents rather than fix the problem. Well guess what...He didn't get elected with a mandate to indulge his own childish revenge fantasies. His mandate was given because Canadians trusted that the Conservatives were the best party to handle a troubled economy. Well, I for one am able to admit that we were wrong. Fortunately, this is a mistake that Harper in his unabashed arrogance is making quite easy for us to correct. Whether you agree with the idea of a coalition is immaterial. What matters is that Stephen Harper tried to take advantage of a perilous time for average Canadians and use it to further his own mean-spirited 'king-of-the-castle' type of politics and should not be allowed to succeed.

Gilles
said

Last night on Mike Duffy, Bob Rae said, “Patriotism is the last refuge of scoundrels”. Well Mr. Rae, isn’t it your parliamentary duty to serve Canada, isn’t that Patriotic. How about all the Canadian Forces members who serve country first, are they scoundrels? Seems to me the pot is calling the kettle black when the coalition says Harper is only out to save his job, when what they really want is his job at any cost, even if that means selling out Canadian sovereignty by giving merit to the separatists, or sovereigntists as they like to call themselves. Go ahead, let Quebec suck a few more billion out of the rest of Canada while you give the Block credibility by allowing them to be part of Canada’s government. Kind of weird when the Block’s only real job is to not have one.

kara fr. the west
said

I think a break might be good - get everyones' heads to cool down, have the mps talk to their constituents and seriously think of the consequences of this coalition.

I also think that a lot of people's perspectives would be completely different if the bloc wasn't part of this. having a separatist party in power is scary; it really is.

i am at the point where i think quebec should just go. never, have i thought that, but this is getting ridiculous. canada continually gives to that province and all they want is more and more. it's pathetic.

and if that doesn't work - maybe the west needs to cut off all ties from the east and see how that works.

Tracy, Ottawa
said

I still do not understand why The Bloc is allowed to participate at the federal level when it is clear their only agenda is to further Quebec. There are no other Federal parties that represent the interests of only one province. The bottom line is that Mr. Harper's Conservatives got the higher percentage of the vote. If Canada wanted Mr.Dion, Mr. Layton or Mr. Duceppe to govern it would not take all three of them to achieve this.(Back dooring canadians) Might I also add that even if Mr. Harper was trying to muscle them a bit for them to think the average canadian would want them in a coalition running our wonderful country.....They are out to lunch. I would rather dish out the money for an election that have those three monkey's run our country!!!!

Jacob from edmonton
said

I have to agree with a point that was made earlier. Western Canadians don't dislike quebec or its people or culture. They are a part of us and we don't want them to go. The bloc is where our anger is directed. Their only role is to promote separation through any means necessary. They saw a chance to enter a win win for themselves and a lose lose for Canada as a whole (and I include quebec in my Canada!!) the bloc either gets to extort its pound of flesh from the libs, in which case the rest of Canada will freak out and start spewing anger at the bloc which the Pq will then use as justification for separation, or it won't get anything and then it will say are this is why we need to split.

The only fair thing to do is for the gg to take a poll to see who Canadians think should run the country. It should be a poll with zero margin of error that is accurate 20 times out of 20 - an election!

John from HRM, Nova Scotia
said

Prime Minister Harper should be leading the country. The Liberals, NDP and BLOC have shown their true colors - only interested in serving their own special interests including public funding of their parties. Dion mentions the support of the Green Party - where do they sit in the House of Commons? Oh, that's right, nowhere! Yet, the Green Party receives public funding - without 1 sitting member! Rediculous! What promises has this coalition made to their backroom supporters? Dangerous! If Harper is to be removed as PM, then we should have an election. What we pay now will be far less than what we pay in the future!

Dr. J.D.Bradford
said

Dion has sold Canada out to the separatists so he can be PM.

Anyone who thinks this guy would make a good PM is deluded. First of all he doesn't have any principle when he sells us out... what else will he do for his big ego?

We did not vote for this wicked sell out coalition who are willing to give Canada to the separatists so they can snatch power on a technicality.

Shame on Liberal back benchers who sit silently by and allow this sell out.

Jan
said

Lets face it The Govt. of PM Harper HAS taken measures to address the present economic downturn.Dion and Layton have not given any clear indicatio as to what they will and CAN do. Genralities :Yes, but no outline of specifics, and THEY want the PM to outline specifics? Both Dion and Layton need a reality check.Thes 2 are playing naked politics to obtain POWER, pure and simple.

Jacob from edmonton
said

Marty in Winnipeg
said

I think that Harper should resign, he has lost all credibility with most people, and if he were to continue as the PM, he would continue to spout his far right propaganda and a few months from now we would be right back where we started from. For the good of the country this man has got to go.

Ray Jacques, Glen Robertson, ON
said

I certainly understand Canadians having proeferences in political parties / ideologies. When the Liberals were in power, when I dindn/t like a policy, I was quick to advise them of my opinion. Generally, I like their policies, but they wer enot always right in my opinion.

When I read theses postings, there seems to be a blind approval of whatever Mr. Harper does. This disturbs me more than any individual posting.

Postings that deny the right of other elected memebrs of Parliament are 100% incorrect. Do you not understand our Brithish PArliamnetary system. Paoting invorrect facts is not very impressive.

Continuing a follow an ideolog who has proved that he cannot lead is also not very impressive or Canadian.

Mr. Haroer is not the leadser that he claims to be. He tired to do exactly the same thing when he was in Opposition. Stop blinding approving Mr, Harper's every move, especially since it is now known that he is not being honest and has in fact lost the vconfidence of the House. He should be replaced by the Coalition who have knowingly and willingly put aside their incomopatible platforms in favour of serving Canadai in these difficult financial times.
It is the legal and correct next step for our Parliament
and Counrty

Doug
said

I wonder if the GG will take a minute to explain our parliamentary system to Harper. Explain to him that the actions being taken are not antidemocratic, that he is acting like a dictator, and he needs the confidence of the House to govern. Harper was not elected as Prime Minister he is an elected member like everyone else. Whoever has the support and confindence of the majority of the House acts as Prime Minister. Right now that is Mr Dion.

Jeff Smith
said

Harper caused this mess. It is all about him. Harper has run his government with the support of the Bloc so his coalition nolonger works. GoodBye Reform-Alliance party hidden in a Conservative suit.

Ray Bradette
said

WAKE UP CANADA !!!!
Look at the mess we are in.

Party politics is not democracy.
We need more INDEPENDENTS on the ballots.

Members (your representatives) are told how to vote by the party leaders.

N.W.T. and Nunavut have it right.
All members are independents and after the election they vote for the Premier(Prime Minister) much the same way as the Speaker is elected in the house of commons.

We need a government
For the People - By the People.
"True Representation"
no more money-stuffed envelopes.
no more lobbyists.
No more favours to be repaid.

Vote for the Independent on the ballot.

Dave
said

Seriously Nathan, your analysis is inaccurate, but it is nice to see someone who cares about the west. Too long all that the government has courted is Ontario and Quebec. Furthermore, the east didn't like Harper from the beginning because he is from the west. Get a grip.

farmer fred
said

Excellency

If media reports are correct, today the Prime Minister will be requesting that you assent to poroguing Parliament. I respectfully request you deny this request.

Since the acceptance of Lord Durham’s report Canada has enjoyed responsible government. Central to that responsible government has been the promise by our Sovereign that Her Ministers will demonstrate that they have the confidence of the people. Our current Prime Minister is clearly attempting to avoid a test of that confidence and will be asking you to assist him in that avoidance.

Canadians recently chose a Parliament. A majority of our Members of that Parliament have indicated that the Prime Minister does not have their confidence. Attempting to avoid a test of that confidence, for no other conceivable reason than to avoid a defeat of the current government, would deny my right, and the right of all Canadians to responsible government. Accepting a request to porogue Parliament would set a dangerous precedent and deny the subjects of Her Majesty our recognized right of a government that is responsible to our elected representatives in the House of Commons. I respectfully submit that you have a duty to ensure that current and more importantly future Canadians subjects of Her Majesty continue to enjoy a government that is responsible to the will of our elected representative in Parliament. As such, I humbly suggest you have a duty to deny any request to porogue and to ensure that the Prime Minister meet a test of confidence at the earliest convenience of Parliament.

John Smith
said

Simply, send us back to the polls. If the "coalition" sticks together for the vote, then we'll know that their ambitions are pure and in the interests of Canadians. If not, well, there's your answer as to what this is all about.

I won't hold my breath on the former...

Darren Sandison
said

the liberals couldn't run the country in the past why would they think they could do it now.this is there way of getting in power and thats all they don't care about canada

James from Calgary
said

Let's hope that the GG does not legitimize the coalition that the Liberals, NDP and Separatists have cobbled together, this would be the absolutely worst possible outcome. Canada is a democracy where the people decide the rulers, not backroom dealers and banana republic tactics. Dion has no legitimacy, its time to stand up to this power hungry crook.

MP
said

The time for consenus has long since past. Unfortunately the minority government isn't working and won't work. Peroguing the Parliment may be good for Steven Harper, but certainly not good for Canada. Lets give the coalition a chance and see what happens - it can't be worse than the status quo!

Bernice Young
said

I agree with what Dave W. has to say about coalitions and the Liberal leadership convention being an election of the next Prime Minister is, I'm sure, objectionable to most Canadians.
I felt that Harper's speech was very good; calm cool and stately.
Please, Governor General Jean, veto the coalition! Make them try and work it out or at least give the MP's time to acually listen to ALL their constituants and get a true picture of what the majority of people really want so that those that must can TRUELY speak for Canadians!!

Paul Murphy
said

The Harper assault against Quebec needs to end . Unity !
I can see a pattern from the western Premiers ,and this includes Harper.
Elected members of the house are prepared to govern. They do represent the majority of Canadians that did not elect the PC party. Mr Harper needs to face what he,himself inspired.
Can you explain why the obesity crisis ,that many are dieing from does not get this level of media interest???????
Personal responsibility Mr Harper .You need to face your own handy work,and yes I am in full support of the Coalition.
Dear Quebecers,
You are seeing the actions of a desparate leader.He does not speak for me ,and I am prepared to support this Coalition.
My challenge is to you,the media . When will you point the camera lens at the factors surrounding obesity???????

Phil
said

2 things:

(1) Canada's is an adversarial system of government - these types of conflicts are the heart and soul of our democracy (although the acrimony need not be). Let's not condemn our politicians for being adversarial in an adversarial system.

(2) Harper told the nation last night that the coalition wanted to "overturn the results of the election." My question to him is this:

Which of your elected MP's are losing their seats?

My perception is that Harper is both highly educated and intelligent. I am consequently disheartened that he would choose to use this type of deliberate rhetorical misinterpretation of facts in a carefully worded address to the nation.

If it's me whose understanding is distorted, somebody please set me straight...

Frunk
said

I agree with Jason D. This is treason even though political precedent may be a factor. I vote for the party with the best policies to guide the country and a lot of Canadians seem to forget that as big as we are, we still have a population of less than 34 million. Factor the obstinate Quebec into that and we have a huge problem to ever have a majority government. The west will certainly be fuelled to think that they are getting screwed once again.

Nick in Gatineau
said

Tradition in Canada also dictates that you wait for the opposing parties to have a leader before you call an election. Will Harper follow that one ?

Don't be surprised if Harper calls an election because he knows the Liberals are heading to a Leadership race. An election now would decimate the Liberals and he knows it.

Now is his chance for his majority government. Third time's the charm.

Bob Jones
said

Harper is scary stuff, he thinks he is a King or President and doesn't care about the people of this Country just as long as Alberta gets what it wants. Harper needs to go live with Bush.

Allyson
said

I personally have had enough of these government GOOFS playing games. Each and every one of them should be held accountable for these antics and perhaps this situation will not be raising its ugly head time and again-let's nip this in the bud and penalize all of the MP's a year's salary and loss of one year's pension. Regardless of the way the dice roll we still will have to wait this situation out at least another 2 mos. until any budget comes down-at which time this may start all over again with no-confidence vetos. Maybe the penalties I suggested would put more money into our sad economy and make parliament think 2ce before pulling another stunt like this one!
What a bunch of junior high school juveniles we elected.
I would NOT have noted if I knew this situation was on the horizon.

Matthew
said

The Liberals will choose the next Prime Minister at their Leadership Convention in May, and the rest of the Canadian people will have no say in it. Now, that's democracy!! And you're gonna like it, whether you do or not. The Liberal way!

Ranee
said

I don't know a whole lot about government process, but what I do know is this. It's like parents fighting over kids and NO ONE is wanting to ask the kids thier opinion. Our government is to be elected by the people with OUR interests at heart. If Dion and the Coolition think they can do a better job . . .ask the people who you SAY you support instead or back-dooring us. If you don't want to chance that then instead of fighting but all of that good will and work togetherness to good use! Work with what you have already and stop wasting time.

Connie
said

It is a tough call for the GG. I don't think the Bloc indicating they will not vote against the coalition means much, after all they voted to support the Tories in the last 14 confidence votes, and the Tories didn't say we lost because we were propped up by sepratists. I think she will give a time out to allow cooler heads to prevail. I hope Harper takes this time to repair what he created.

Peter from Hamilton
said

One side is trying to lead by promiting unity while the other is trying to hold onto power by promoting hatred and division. Who do you think the Governor General should side with?

The more Harper talks, the more he proves to Canadians how unfit he is to lead this nation. A coalition is perfectly legal in a minority government. To those who think that a coalition government is not "Canadian" or "undemocratic", I wish you all the best of luck in finishing your education.

Dayton
said

Experts say the Coalition has to have a formal well written plan with at least 2 years of explicit statements of how it will run this country. That would include everything not just the economy. This group of thugs could not possibly come up with an alternative to the present govt. For example who is leading this mess.I don't know if Dion was trying to look like he was in a third world but last nights video sure did. One leader should have been able to speak on their behalf but last night I saw 3 with a side order of Green's yet to come. How could our GG ever think these people could govern. Harper knows the coalition is a joke and if they all don't retreat soon he will force their hand. The coalition has 2 cards retreat or forge ahead and fail. Harper has the rest of the deck but he doesn't know which card to play next.

Mark in Waterloo
said

It would be appalling if Mr. Harper could prorogue parliament without first having demonstrated confidence in the House. To prorogue is a huge decision and one that should not be taken on lightly and without the consensus of the government -- the WHOLE government.

The role of the GG is to protect the house from rampaging leaders who abuse their power and extend their mandate beyond what the people have given them. To allow prorogue strictly to avoid a confidence vote is fundamentally undemocratic.

6 weeks should have been ample time to at least pre-view a budget. This government has had the full economical numbers at their behest for months and have simply chosen not to act. Delaying the inevitable and stifling the decision making process until Jan seems highly questionable.

Roger T
said

We need "CHANGE", the economy is on the brinks of collasp. People are losing their jobs/homes while manufacturing plants are shutting down faster than dominos.

While Harper is desparately trying to save his party members jobs during this uncertain economic times, really he's trying to save (HIS OWN) face first and his job.

We Canadians need a strong leadership that can turn the economy around while investors are fleeing like wild bulls are running from the bears!

Uncertain economic times calls for CHANGE NOW, if things don't happen soon the situation might be "SHOP NOW, CRY LATER" for ALL OF US.

Dan
said

All Canadian's are saying to the goverment is get togeter and work togeter to get the economie stable. It seem to like the Comservative party is the only one the won't play with authers. Opfuly the G,G, will go for the coalition.

Phil (Halifax)
said

If anybody needed more proof of the ineptness of this treasonous coalition then they had it last night.
Are you Canada going to trust Larry, Moe, and Curly to lead us now?
Remember, we have troops that are in harms way. If you can't coordinate a response to the nation when you have ample time to prepare, what are you going to do when the 3am call comes that requires decisive action to protect our troops and citizens?
Leadership is what it is all about!
Dion you are hapless. Layton you’re a joke, and Duceppe you are a traitor!
Stability, focus, and leadership, that is what Canada needs and voted for.
That is what Canada has in Harper.

Dennis Hughey
said

The Bloc, and now with a signed deal with the NDP and
Liberals are all three,"traitors"! The law of Canada is & has been broken!
The act of treason should be treated as such. It is as simple as enforcing the law of Canada!

Rob Z
said

The Governor General should not allow Harper to prorogue Parliament simply to avoid a confidence vote. It is by far the biggest violation of democracy in recent history, as a prorogue would mean the Conservatives would have a government without legitimacy.

As for the proposed Liberal-NDP coalition, it should be allowed to proceed. Unlike what so many have indicated, a coalition would not overturn the results of the election, as we elect MP's instead of the Prime Minister. It's simply an act of demonstrating to the Conservatives that they do not have the mandate to govern this country as if they have a majority, and in a minority government, the government MUST co-operate with one or more opposition parties in order to make government work. If Harper doesn't want to do that, he should be booted and the coalition should be allowed to govern, as wasting another $300 million of taxpayers money in the second election in two months is just plain stupid!

Tommies
said

I know Harper is the PM and maybe he's expected to lead and calm this down by reaching out to the players in this. But having said that-why is he now expected to extend an olive branch to these 3 as a way out for them. They got themselves into this they should pay the price for it.It is not his job to dissolve this coalition. The longer the coalition remains the longer the 3 remain in opposition. The better the ads for the Cons in the next election!Everyone in this coalition is going to pay a price. The public, by the way are 48-32 AGAINST public financing of political parties but yet that seems to be the reason that the pundits think Harper should be removed?

KJ in Kingston Ontario
said

Harper seems to be afraid to do ANYTHING for fear it will return to haunt him. The one thing that will haunt the Conservatives for a long long time and make getting a majority next to impossible is playing the FRENCH SEPARATIST-SOVEREIGNIST CARD. Of course the Liberals will I believe rue the day they bought a ticket on this down bound train from Jack Layton since they are now going to wear the recession/depression we are falling into like that meteor that hit back in November instead of letting the Conservatives take the fall. The Conservatives didn't cause it -- the US did, but this power struggle will make it much worse than any "stimulus package" will be able to undo. Harper was fool for not looking right into the camera last night and saying he was sorry and he overplayed his hand. That he failed to properly consult the opposition on the funding cuts. I don't believe tax dollars should go to political parties like grants or a salary -- but hey man, that is THE SYSTEM we have now and it can't be changed on a whim. Dion is a one man disaster. He makes Joe Clark look like a world-class statesman. What a mess.

Tim In Airdrie
said

Harper had a great chance last night to sooth things and act like a Prime Minister should. Instead he just continued with his old stuff of trying to fool the people.

He does not have the confidence of the House & will not get it - he must go & let the coalition run the Country until another election in a year or so.

We have Quebec Separatists & Western Separatists - both are allowed to vote as they see fit.

Rozanne
said

I find it inconceivable that we are expected to pay for another election because the Liberal party didn't win. We voted. Get over it. Go stomp your feet and pout somewhere else at someone elses expense. We can't afford to pay for your tantrum. Also, be careful what you wish for. This could come back to bite you. The Bloc Quebecois should not even be in the equation because they are only interest in QUEBEC. Why are they even considered a national party? Next we will have the Party of Ontario, Manitoba, ect. If other provinces were to run their own parties in a national election it would be considered ridiculous (and probably would never be permitted) and would also destroy the fabric of our political structure. I believe much of the problem stems from the fact that more women don't have the time to run for government. We need more reason and less testostrone. My favourite comedian, George Carlin (recently deceased), made the best and most accurate observation I have ever heard regarding political leaders. I am unable to quote him directly because his vocabularly tended to be more colourful then would be accepted in a public forum, but this is the jist of it. The political party leaders (Green Party leader excepted) should stand in a circle and wag their penises back and forth. Who ever has the biggest penis wins. That is basically what is happening now!

Erika Saunders Ottawa
said

We should make a collection to buy crates of soothers for thoses kids!!!

Acton Ontario
said

Harper fell short of convincing me. Although I'm still against the coalition, Harper needs to pull the opposition into meetings and hash out a new budget immediately. After that he needs to resign.

Harper missed the opportunity to reach out to dissenting Liberals. He was too harsh on Quebec and may have re-opened Pandora's separatist box. And, he did not apologize to Canadians for sparking this unnecessary crisis. I thought his depth was shallow and unconvincing. He needed to show more passion like PET.

Although he's politically finished, his business is not. He how needs to bring the country back together.

Dion's showing last night was disgraceful, and may have been a blessing in disguise for Canada. I have nothing good to say about their political intensions to take what isn't theirs. Looks good on them!

Judy
said

I am sick and tired of the fighting! Why isn't this government coming together to get us through these hard times. Lets cut the bull. This all started when the announcement was made that the big guys on the hill are going to have cut backs and tighten their purse strings. They have put that responsibility on us, far too many times. So this is them pulling a tantrum. This is all about their pocket books, not about helping any of us! Let the government try to help this country and stop trying to pull us apart for your own selfishness.

Diane
said

The Coalition has made a mockery of democracy in our country - it makes me ashamed to be a Canadian! The Governor General should recognize that Stephane Dion, Jack Layton and Gilles Duceppe were defeated in our recent election and not all the Coalition government which Canadians did not vote for. Give Harper what he asks for. Personally, I would be in favour of another election to get the message across to the three bozos who are making an unsettled global economic crisis even worse in our country which until this mess was in pretty darn good shape!

Tim in Ottawa
said

Harper and Flaherty need to go period!

I didn't vote conservative and never would, but they did win the election and should be given a chance to govern. Harper chose not to work with the opposition and tried his same old bully tactics which blew up in his face. Time for him to resign and for the Conservatives to pick a leader who can work with others.

A new election won't solve anything and just leave us 300 million more in debt.

A coalition would alienate the West.

Only choice is a Conservative Government without Harper and Flaherty.

SophieAnna
said

If the coalition governed the country, it would be similar to the pre-tape delivery: rushed, out-of focused, and poor quality controlled.

Cody
said

For all of you complaining about the coalition, Harper or whatever, did you vote on the 14th of October? If not, please do not comment, THAT was your time to voice your opinion not now. The 14th of October saw the LOWEST voter turnout in Canadian history (or pretty close to it, I do not have the exact number on this). It is too late now to voice your opinion if you did not vote. I am for a coalition because I am not into Tyrants and that is how Harper is behaving. Ruling a minority government is all about comprimise with the opposition. Hapre DID NOT consult with opposition parties until they threatened his job. TOO LATE, did he not learn anything in the last election? The MAJORITY of Canadians DO NOT want Harper to lead, The Majority DID vote for the other 3 parties so they have every right (whether the conservatives like it or not) to run the country, MORE people voted for the other 3 parties than for Harper so think about that. The coalition is not breaking any laws so get over it. Harper was doing the exact same thing when he did not get his way several years ago. Now he cries foul?This is how things work. All of you are up in arms over this now but the majority of Canadians did little or nothing to get to the polls and vote, that is when you shoud have spoken. It is up to the GG to decide if Harper should run the country or not or give him even more time to come up with an economic plan (he has not done so in the election or since! How much time does this guy need?)

Carol R
said

I am from Alberta and we are not against Quebec, nor have we ever been. The coalition makes us sound like we are. All Canadians are a part of Canada. Frankly this discussion has to do with Democracy. When we vote in a minority government weather it be whomever we all have to except who was voted into parliament weather we like them or not. Many years the west didn't like who was in, but we dealt with whom the people voted for. My understanding is that all other parties at anytime always have held the majority power in a minority government, but does this give the majority not voted in the power to take over just because they can't handle disagreements. I thought that was what a minority government does, disagree, but to bolt to create their own non voted government into parliament, WHY, get back to work and work this out as all minority governments have done in the past, just cause you don't like it, work it out children.

Dominic
said

Who really cares what Alberta thinks. In the grand scheme of things, Alberta should be should learn that Canada is not a single minded country, that it has more parties than just conservatives, that its dirty oil is not going last forever, that the Quebec and Ontario will continue to call the shots for a very long time, that they should stop mentally stop isolating themselves even though physically they are hinterland, that they should be more interested in the rest of Canada and be prepared to play a cohesive role and not a divisive one.

Greg M Montreal now Ottawa
said

I laugh at the sheep that toss around the argument that 65% of Canadians voted against Harper. Do you think that those 65% would've casted their votes knowing that the Liberals and NDP would jump into bed with the Bloc Québecois? If i was in that 65%, which thank God i am not, i would be very angry that my party chose to use my vote as leverage to create this coup.

How can people blame Harper for the economy? Does Harper control the economy in the USA or Europe or Asia? Didnt think so! Let Harper run this country, which he has done so well since he has been elected.

Oh how the sheep are forgetful of when Jean C and Paully Martin were in power and our dollar was a a whopping 60 cents!

Harper has not only lowered our taxes, and made our dollar stronger, he also made Canada a proud place to live again.

As an english Quebecer (Yes we do actually exist) i find it laughable that french is called a race. Last time i checked there are, blacks, whites, asians, indians etc... that all speak french...
Harper gave Quebec the best deal ever, he let them call themselves a nation, so they can be cooler than the other provinces. Whoopie!

I stand by my Prime Minister and know that Mr. Harper will prevail over those pathetic individuals and lead us back to happier times, and restore Canadian pride!

Ethan in Calgary
said

I am from Calgary and voted for Mr Harper. I now deeply resent the fact that Mr Harper is stirring up separatists here in the West and in Eastern Canada. Mr. Harper has been a dissappointing bully and is burning bridges at a time when new ties must be forged. I want him to face the music and face it now. He must demonstrate to us all that he has the confidence of the House of Commons. Maintaining the support and confidence of the House is not optional in our political system. I am outraged at Mr Harper's antics. I believe in an Alberta that is PART OF THIS GREAT COUNTRY. Mr Harper does not seem to.

Mathieu
said

I still find it hilarious how Harper is trying to turn this into a separatist debate. He's the first one who tried to make a coalition with the BQ before he was PM. He's such a hypocrit.

Ray in teh East
said

If Harper doesn't have the confidence of Parliment, he can't Govern. Maybe he should step aside and let Peter MacKay take over for the good of the country.

Lane
said

This is nothing but a cynical, partisan power play by the opposition. The Conservatives have cut consumption taxes, cut business taxes, and committed record spending on infrastructure. These are all strong economic stimuli, yet the opposition has criticized all of these moves without providing a single concrete idea of their own. If they're going to bring down the government, they should do it after seeing the budget, not before.

Andrew
said

The Conservative government was returned with an increased mandate to 143 seats while that of the Liberals was reduced to 77 seats and a reduced share of the popular vote, their lowest in history. Because there was an explicit promise by Mr. Dion not to form a coalition, not a single person voted for the separatist-dependent coalition, not even Liberal voters, who will be defrauded as much as Conservatives if Mr. Dion becomes PM. The coalition received 0 votes. Mr. Chretien held majorities with election results in the high 30s. Only Canadians can choose their own government. The Conservative government is the only legitimate government of Canada, unless we go to dissolution and have an election.

Jack R
said

Let's hope for Canada's sake (and the reputation of democracy as an idea) that Harper does not suspend parliament because his government cannot survive a confidence vote. And. I don't believe Michelle Jean will grant it. There's no precedent. Harper and the conservative are not good for Canada. They aren't good for out reputation as a democracy.

Brian from the GTA
said

The Dion video was a well crafted piece of work. No wonder the Liberl party is terrified to lose it's public funding. Obviously they are broke, as is evident by the video. They must regain power to continue their funding. That is all this whole fiasco is about. It is not about the economy folks, it is about saving the Liberal party from Bankruptcy. In the end the liberals are willing to make a deal with the devil in order to save their own bacon.

Gary
said

Harper brought this on himself.
After the election everyone 'talked' about working together yet Harper's first move is to hurt the other parties financially, this does not help the country in anyway. He does not address the current financial situation, the one the rest of the civilized world is dealing with, the one that he did not even recognize during the election.
I don't like the idea of a coalition government with a party who's primary objective is separation but the Tories have to start managing the economic problem. They have to start working with the other elected members of parliament and since they do not have a majority this includes 'working with' the other political parties. Stop wasting time.

Dave
said

I did not vote for the Conservatives nor did I vote for any of the Coalition parties. One observation to Prime Minister Harper, 63% of us did not vote for you, but you had your opportunity to govern. Through arrogance and bullying you have lost confidence of parliament and you deserve to be replaced.

Mike in Mississauga
said

A national party should be exactly that, period. They should, in my opinion, have representation in at least 30% of the provinces and territories to claim that status.
If this was the case we would not be in this situation. The rules should be changed!!

Julie - Saskatoon
said

I keep on hearing something in these messages...it is true that with our electoral process we vote for an MP, and the leader of the party with the most MP's becomes the PM. But times have changed since Confederation, people! Don't tell me that the majority of Canadians don't now vote for a party and leader as opposed to the individual MP. Sure, there are a few MP's that will be elected until the end of time (Ralph Goodale being one), but those are few and far between.

Further, a coalition between parties who plan to ultimately become one party forever (ie. PC's and Reform) is true to the word of a coalition. They had the same ideology and split the vote. The NDP and Liberal Party of Canada DO NOT see eye to eye, and thus how do they plan on making a "working coalition"? Throw the BQ in there as the balance of power, and I think Canada has a far more unstable government than we have right now. Dion and Layton have mucked this up too much, we have to go to the polls again and Canada has to elect some sort of a majority.

Andy Bryski Aylesford Nova Scotia
said

This is a blatant attempt by the opposition parties to hijack the Canadian Parliament. They did not talk about a coalition in the past election, in fact Mr. Dion outright rejected the suggestion. Now that they lost, they suddenly have a change of heart,and believe that this coalition should waste our taxes by spending billions on a failing automotive and lumbering industry that can only recover when the American economy recovers. Once they have spent these billions and failed, they will blame the Conservatives for the failure.

I am very satisfied in the way that my Prime Minister is leading Canada through this economic crisis. A true leader must display confidence and not panic during trying times. He must not run around like chicken little, crying that the sky is falling. Our economy is doing very well in comparison with other world economies. This is a direct result of the initiatives and policies of the present Government.

The Party who is in the best position to govern, is the Party that the people of Canada elected in the last election.

Unfortunatly, I believe our economy could be doing much better if it weren't for the " sky is falling" alarmists in the opposition who are playing politics rather than offering credible,and I stress credible solutions. Their continious alarmist attitude could very well result in a self fulfilling prophesy if Canadian's accept their doomsday rhetoric and change their consumer habits. Witness the fall of the TSX since the opposition announced their coalition agenda.

If this Government is brought down, I want to participate in another election and the Liberals and the NDP must run as a Coalition Party. Only then, will I feel that the best interests of the Canadian people are truly served.

JR from Pointe Claire
said

Harper is such a sleeze - he had the chance to convince people across the nation and especially from Quebec and Ontario that he had a plan and obviously he failed. He is in it for Alberta and Alberta only. Let's throw him to the wolves and get someone in there from Quebec-Ontario where the majority of the Canadian population resides. Alberta snubs their nose at us over the oil and their wealth issue yet industry built this country. Welcome home Madam GG - glad you could drag yourself away from your worldly duties at our enormous expense. Do your job and turf the Conservatives!!

Cal from Ontario
said

I don't understand why the conservatives are allowed to be a national party when they only represent the interests of the wealthy, bif business and the west. Harper created this fiasco and thus he should resign immediately. Suspending Parliament for his reasons (to keep power) is pathetic.

Ron in Moncton
said

It is amazing how this is developing. I am in disbelief how the coalition supporters can listen to the greedy, rethoric of the 3 imbiciles.
Think of your own situation. If you have less money coming into your house for the next 6 months will you go out and buy a new car? Will you go to the restaurant the same twice a wk or cut back to once a week.
Stephen Harper has shown leadership in that he has remained calm, kept the fiscal house in order and during his leadership has modified banking laws to avoid what happened in the usa.
For seniors in this country, he has modified income tax so that retirees will not be hurt by the economic pressure and he has allowed everyone to save without paying income tax.
This same coallition has continually stopped any crime reduction measures, and more tax incentives to keep companies/employers in a postion to hire more.

Give your head a shake and stop being so greedy. 30B dollars to the auto sector will do nothing but line more politicians pockets.

Don Kabel
said

It is so embarassing, to think that millions of people around the world that respect Canada, might be able to watch this joke. Harper is trying to be smart with Canadian's money & the NDP & Liberals think it still grows on trees & can cover any current fantasy spending spree they can concieve of. No, that's not it. They want to grease people that might vote for them.
Layton & Dion wouldn't hold up in a banana republic, they are just lackluster lifer politicians living off the system & contributing bugger all. Mouthing off to the latest economic disaster, people losing jobs. Hey, it happens. Try the Alberta oilfields sometime. These 'honourable' gentlemen have no policy other than to feed the crows when they squawk.
At least Harper is having a shot at financial responsibility - and has had a good number of people vote in his party's favour.
Coalition? You mean like Zimbabwe?? There can't be that many stupid Canadians......

Cory
said

People say we didn't vote for a coalition government, but we did when we voted for a minority government. This country is so divided that maybe a coalition is the best thing for us.

Murray from West Nipissing
said

The H of C is a mess. Overall, no one seems to have confidence in any of the current party leaders. Mr. Harper is out of touch with most of Canada, and the NDP and Liberals currently lack an alternative that can unify the country. All the leaders should do the right thing and resign. Provide us with new leaders who can gain our trust. Our major political parties need to give their collective heads a shake. It is a collective failure of our leadership.

Chris
said

Everybody blames Harper for the division between Quebec and the rest of Canada.
It is not Harper it is their representation Duceppe of the Separatist Bloc , He has said time and time again on the news and in Parliment that he is only interested in what is in it for Quebec not National Unity. If Quebecer want the rest of Canada to know that they are for National unity they need to send representation to Ottawa with that message and maybe change the name of their party.

Stephan
said

Let's not have another election (until Canadians learn how our system works.) The Coalition could and will work. The Bloc can't pass anything destructive. They don't have the numbers.

Here in Canada we don't elect a Prime Minister, we elect MPs. The MP that can gain the suppport of the majority of the House becomes the Prime Minister, and right now it looks like Mr. Dion is that person. Why? Because, clearly he is the only leader that is willing to listen to everyone.

Our system is just fine. The only change I would like to see is to replace our Head of State (the Queen and Governor General) with a popularly elected President.

Bob B
said

Perhaps if Mr. Harper had worked with the opposition from the start HE OR WE would not be in this mess. Now he wants to work with the other parties to save his and the conservatives skin.I'm sorry I made a mistake, let's kiss and make up.

So an agreement with the Bloc is evil, Harper did it in the past when he wanted to oust the Liberals. OH I forgot, conservatives have short memories.

I hope the women in this country realize Mr. Harper was going to take away your RIGHT to LEGAL action on pay equity!! Is this what women fought for, for so many years? Is this what you want to represent you in Canada?

Perhaps what should happen is: ALL THE PARTY LEADERS QUIT, WE HAVE A VOTE WITH NO PARTY LEADERS, A NEW 'PM' IS APPOINTED FROM THE WINNING PARTY - CANNOT BE A PAST LEADER APPOINTED

Patti, Winnipeg
said

All members of Parliament were elected, not just the Conservatives. The GG should not prorogue. This country can ill afford to wait 2 months for anything to happen. Let Stephen Harper go to the GG after Monday. At this point, I would prefer Gilles Duceppe as PM over Stephen Harper anyday. The PM is obviously arrogant, a power freak and does not have the best interests of ALL of this country at heart.

Patrick Roach
said

It amazes me how people listen to all the anti Harper smear tactics by the other ineffective leaders. Let the real leader lead and get on with maintaining what is one of the strongest economies in the world. Remember this has not been instigated by Mr. Harper. There was not enough time for them to claim that Mr. Harper was not doing enough. The fact that huge measures were not announced instantly says that perhaps there was time for discussion and the opportunity for ideas to come forth. Is not that what question period is supposed to be about.

Cathy
said

Harper cannot find the courage to suspend his personal scathing attacks for the benefit of the country. His whole campaign was personal, his preliminary budget was personal - the man is a bully. Just as I was trying to accept him, he pulled this stunt. The man did not have the mandate to govern, as only 38% of the population voted for him. He was awarded the privilege to govern and he misused it. I am not sure that the coalition is the right thing for the country at this time, but it cannot be any worse that this man with a personal agenda and a personal vendetta.

Diane from London
said

I have two questions.

Who is the Prime Minister of the Coalition Government? Stephan Dion was late delivering his very childlike taped speech. Then Moe and Larry (Jack Layton and Gilles Duceppe) had to present as well.

Does this mean that they are all doing everything together?

Secondly is the coalition going to give everybody who has lost their jobs a new job or money in lieu of? The way they are presenting themselves is that they will be the saviors of the economic turndown.

They have a tall order. Hope that they can do what they say they can or they may be promising way more than they can deliver.

Chris H.in Burnt River On.
said

Are we heading headlong into the abyss because as this so called "progressive coalition"tells us we need to spend billions of our hard earned dollars immediately to rescue faltering auto companies or is this an excuse to grab power?I'm still waiting to hear from the U.S. TO see what they propose as their decisions will have the greatest impact on any decisions we should make.If money should be spent bailing these guys out it needs to be prudently administered to ensure our investment is protected and not wasted.We are told any real American action on the U.S.economy will not happen until late January when Obama takes office.Meanwhile we have a safety net in place to assist any laid off workers that may be affected.We dont know what plants will close on either side of the border so how in hell are we going to know wwhere to wisely target our funding? This whole Toronto conspiracy really stinks(the main players are from T.O.)and I think it is really going to hurt the country as a whole as this whole deck of cards is propped up by the separatists in Quebec,who's only interests are Quebec and the eventual separation from Canada.These guys need a "time out" to see how their constituents feel before they go headlong into something that can have such a possible negative impact on the country.

Andrea
said

Parliament is dysfunctional.

Already spent $300 million on last election, and chances are,if we go into another election, would come out with the same result. Another minority.

Hopefully GG, will do another option and not throw us back into another election. Then again, Harper is playing chicken by not doing the vote.

Alain, Montreal
said

Many are opposed to the coalition on the fact that the Bloc supports it. Do not forget that the Bloc represent the people of Quebec. As far as I know Québec is still part of Canada, thus it is normal that the voice of Québec be heard in Ottawa.

Also, and most important for the rest of Canada, what the Bloc defends and demands is for the better good of people of Québec, the interesting thing is that the need of Québec is the same for the people of rest of Canada.

The only thing the Bloc defends, the Québec separation, will not have any impact, the block does not have a majority within the coalition, and logically the coalition will only go forward with goal common to all part of the coalition.

Historically about 42% of the Canadian vote form a majority government, 48% or about create a very, very strong government with in the upper 80% of the deputy. In this case, the coalition with just under 65% of the Canadian vote will lead to a majority government with about 65% of the deputy, this is the first really representative government since World War 1.

Mark in Ottawa
said

Finally we have a Governor General who will earn their keep! One way or the other, I am glad the position is there!

I hope she does the right thing and turn down Harper's request. How long can Canada remain stalemated?

Dave -- Montreal
said

Why don't they just leave us alone so we can enjoy the holidays and then deal with these bufoons afterwards?

CAK
said

I can only laugh when I hear Dion say that Harper has lost the confidence of the house. They planned this coalition long ago. They never had any intention of playing ball with the PM. The only confidence they have is in stealing the election from the Canadian people. We can only hope that the calmer head of the GG will prevail and not allow this to happen. Let's have another election, but no campaigning. We have heard it all at nauseum.

Rob - the scared for his wallet guy
said

The Arguments here remind me of an age old saying, "Two wrongs dont make a right"

So Harper brought this on himself, I guess well there is no argument to thatt, he counted on Dion as a lame duck leader already asked by his party to leave, would act as per his track record, to walk out of the house rather than show a spin. one would have to say small miscalculation there eh'.

so wrong one has clarity.

Wrong two is this coalition that is a direct contradiction to the lies told to us the voters during the election that the philosophical differences between the parties were great to have a coalition.

I guess we are the fools for not recognizing just how far to the left the liberals had slid under Dion. The same can be said for the Liberal party having brought this on themselves however our memories have be a bit longer. the arrogance displayed in the last years under Cretien and Martin and there massive departure from being a centerist party. with fiscal controls right or wrong to be debated in a seperate form.

bob in winnipeg
said

Nathan said "During a global economic crisis, Harper has attacked women, labor, & democracy; engineered a political crisis; and triggered a unity crisis. Clearly this man has unrestrained, destructive priorities."

OMG, people are getting deranged. What a load of crap. None of this is even remotely true. The folks with the destructive policies are the ones who are attempting to govern without a mandate.

To say that this is all Harpers fault boggles the mind. Although I agree that political parties should raise their own funds, and not be given taxpayer money, maybe he should have held off on that (he did withdraw it from the update). But to engage in all this backroom dealing and scheming over a fiscal update is to make a mountain out of a molehill. It simply does not rise to the threshold of changing the government. If the oppositons want to topple the government, at least wait until the budget.

Murray in Alberta
said

Heard you talk about the GG not being elected, what is the difference we did not ELECT the coalition either

AJ from Ottawa
said

In my opinion and belief the best reaction from the GG for Canadians could be ...
when Mr. Harper arrives to her home for her decision she looks him in the eyes and says "Mr. Harper a couple months ago, you called an election for the people of Canada to once again become PM and won the role, duties and job of Prime Minister,successfully. Why should I interfere now at this very time when you, now more than ever, have an important job to do. Go back to your House of Commons and embrace the role you so desired and deal with the ups and downs of your job, facing the people that oppose you and the Canadians you govern"
I feel PM Harper running to the GG for a postponement of parlement is nothing more than a waste of taxpayers time and money. Lets face it, its our money they are going to be spending on all the advertizing, press and print during this time. Its not like someone is going to come along and say to all the leaders "play fair and dont waste the money of taxpayers or supporters because it could go to the Canadians losing thier jobs, business and homes"
Why is this not general realization of Canadians, all of this will only cost us more. PM get back to work! and if you loose your job while doing it, so be it atleast no one can say you didnt work for day of work like the rest of us! Cause with all sincerity if you keep mismanaging our money, we will loose our jobs in the end!

James in New Brunswick
said

It amazes me that we have people saying that the majority of the Canadian people didn't vote for the Governing party and that, because of that in large part, they lack the legitimate right to govern.

If I recall correctly, the number of Governments that actually received a majority of votes cast, let alone the majority of the votes available, is quite small. Many strong majority Governments were formed with little more than 40% of the vote. Are we now saying that they lacked the legitimate right to govern?

Yes, there is scope for a Coalition government in Canada but a basic principle of democracy is that no government can make drastic changes to its stated policy without a mandate from the people in the form of an election. Perhaps in this case, a plebiscite or referendum regarding the idea of a Coalition and its mandate would be a quicker and more effective way of getting Canadian's input.

This economic crisis is unprecedented. Around the world governments are throwing money at the problems with little effect. I'd much rather see our Government, which has the strongest economic record in the G7, continue to consult with business, academia and the opposition parties and use the best information and ideas to develop the best solution for Canada. This needs to be outlined in a BUDGET which is not something anyone is prepared to deliver today.

There will be opportunities for the Federal Government to support industries in need of assistance but handing them a blank cheque is not the way to do it.
So, I hope the GG gives the Government the chance to prepare and table a BUDGET.

Jenn
said

I am disgusted by what the opposition is trying to pull. We are in difficult economic times and they think they can be God's gift to us by overthrowing our government like a bunch of communists?
Canada chose Harper and the Conservatives, whether or not everyone in Canada agrees with him as Prime Minister or not. If we start this precedent with a coalition government,we can kiss our democracy goodbye. Anyone who's touchy they didn't win the election (DION)can just take the job? I think not.
Take us CANADIANS to the polls so we can MAKE UP OUR MIND, thank you very much.

Mel in BC
said

Paying for an election is going to provide just as much "stimulus" as anything else the three amigos would do. That is to say it is a waste of money. I would sooner waste my money on another election than have those three clowns take over my country.

Mark in Waterloo
said

The dilemna we find ourselves in today underscores the need to re-think the role of the governor general.

While she may be calm and bi-partisan, she is also more of a figure head these days. It is pretty clear that a parliamentary prorogue would have the sole purpose of avoiding a non-confidence motion, and therefore should not be allowed without the consent of the house. However, because the GG has no real authority these days, she may well be forced to grant prorogue.

I don't like the fact that loopholes like this exist in our parliamentary system and that we may have no recourse against a rampaging PM. I also don't like the fact that the meeting with the GG is not public and we must rely on Mr Harper to convey it's outcome. I would much rather matters like this be settled in front of the supreme court with a public audience.

It can't be addressed now but something we should be thinking about once we are in calmer times.

George in YYC
said

Very interesting. Prior to last night a was totally believing the Conservatives were being screwed over by this coalition.... The speaches on both side were borderline pathetic. However, stealing is still stealing and it is very obvious that this coalition has been discussing this agreeement for several weeks and I bet even prior to the election to steal power. Next, everyone out East is saying they want the goverment help prop up th eeconomy. That is NOT the responsibility of the government... If anyone in Canada believes our government has the ability to control the economy on the scale it has affected the world they are gravely mistaken. We represent I would say less than five percent of the world market. So how can our government help the slumping economy on this magnitude? As for the Auto industry they have seen this coming for years with the Asian auto manufactures putting out in some cases a better product. This private business sector, not a government run organization. help through insentives of other foregin products. Finally, This cannot be done in a week like the coalition said.

Dave Sauter
said

Dave

Canadians don't be fooled by the opposition parties retoric. This is all about the opposition parties losing their political, pork barreling, funding. All the rest is just a smoke screen created to fool Canadians into thinking the governmnet is doing a bad job.

Jim Boswell
said

Colin from Bedford makes an excellent point. None of the leaders are faultless and each has exacerbated the situation to the crisis point. If each truly wishes to move forward in a positive fashion to deal with the immediate problem of the global economy and how it affects Canada then let each of the four step down as leader right now.
The GG should prorogue parliament to allow cooler heads to prevail and new interim leaders to be selected for all four parties and then come back and give your best shot at making this duly elected parliament work for the betterment of all Canadians.
If any of the leaders refused it would be a clear indication of what their true character is as opposed to what they may say when a microphone is perched in front of them.
It seems to me that personalities have overtaken policy in this case and that is shameful.

Kat
said

You know we have men & women laying their lives on the line in Afghanistan every minute of everyday so there can be a democracy for the Afghan people. Do any of us sitting here at home even know what a democracy is? Last I knew democracy meant having a Vote in which now the so called coalition (Commies, Thieves, and Separatists… Oh My!!!!!) Wants to without our vote over throw a Government that We The People of Canada VOTED in. Think about it do we really want a coalition (Commies, Thieves, and Separatists… Oh My!!!!!) Government that is willing to go against the Democracy that Our men & women are fighting for & dying to give another country????

Gail in NS
said

Dion's rebuttal tape - That was a joke, right? The biggest address of your career and you can't even manage to deliver it to the broadcaster on time, let alone manage tape quality any better than what my cellphone can do? This is really no time for jokes.

And Jack and Gilles - where were you? Is this how your coalition works, that you let the idiot lead the play even though he has a history of fumbling the ball?

My God, can you just imagine this bumbling bunch of incompetents representing Canada on the world stage? I am cringing.

E.D.
said

It's either a new government or another election. The Conservatives need the majority of support from the House and they don't have it. That's all there is too it. It's not anti-democratic. Anyone who says it is has been brainwashed by the Conservatives. No one voted for Harper. This isn't a presidential system. Since the Liberals and NDP have the support, they have the right to govern.
I just love how when Harper did the same thing a few years ago it was great. Now when someone else does it, it's a threat to the country. Suck it up! This is our system.
Fortunatly we get to see what the GG is useful for instead of costing us millions.

Thomas (Ottawa)
said

It does not matter who you voted for. No rational voter voted for a government that is inclined to turn politics, especially during an economic crisis, into a childish game. To take a "time out," that is, to prorogue parliament is to do exactly that. This is not football!

Robert B in BC
said

Perhaps if Mr. Harper had worked with the opposition from the start HE OR WE would not be in this mess. Now he wants to work with the other parties to save his and the conservatives skin. I'm sorry I made a mistake, let's kiss and make up.

So an agreement with the Bloc is evil, Harper did it in the past when he wanted to oust the Liberals. OH I forgot, conservatives have short memories.

I hope the women in this country realize Mr. Harper was going to take away your RIGHT to LEGAL action on pay equity!! Is this what women fought for, for so many years? Is this what you want to represent you in Canada?

Paul
said

Folks ! alot of people here are indicating that Mr. Harper did this to himself ??

DO you think the man wanted this right after an election.

NO matter what that man did or would have done , we all know now that the plans have been in place to bring down the goverment before the fiscal update was given.

Last night we all found out what the Bloc is getting to support the NDP and The liberals , All the promises given to the Bloc results in money going to Quebec, in our current economic criss where do you think that money is coming from ?????

Wakeup Canada

On the Bloc, if you ask anyone , well almost anyone in Canada they will tell you that we want Quebec in Canada , we just do not want the Bloc, we do not feel the Bloc is acting in the best interests of Quebec or Canada . Yes Quebec has a different culture, most regions in Canada have a unique culture. We all get allong in most cases ..... We just dont tell the rest of canada we are taking our toys and going home !

If the NDP and Libers have the seats to form a goverment that would be one thing , if the Bloc had seats in the rest of Canada that would be something else

But to bring down a goverment 7 weeks after an election where they are less than 20 seats from a Majority

What are you thinking ?

Daniel - Montreal
said

I can't believe you people. We are in a time of economic crisis and you're asking Her Excellency to just put the gov't on hold to calm down? We don't have time anymore. Time isn't on our side. Need I remind you that once Christmas holidays are over, the real picture of how bad the economy really is, will come out! You think that if everyone knew the "true" picture right now that they'd go out on a spending spree for the holidays? Not bloody likely, my friends.
Once the busiest spending season of the year has passed, we will see how bad things truely get and to suggest putting the gov't, the very and only organisation that could guide us through this, on hold, well you've got some serious issues.

Your Excellency, please take down Harper. He has proven time and time again that he has no regard for the majority of Canadian voices and is concerned only about his personal agenda while in office.

And, let's not forget, if the coalition doesn't work, it is well within Her Excellency's power to call for a general election. Doesn't anybody know our history and the Mckenzie-King story?
Wake-up people. Now's NOT the time to sit around and take group thearapy at the expense of the Canadian public.

Oh, and to say that everyone who voted for the Bloc is a separatist, is extremely ignorant. If you had a political party concerned pretty much only for your province, would you not vote for them? Would you call yourself a separatist? Grow up.

Aimée- Ottawa
said

Whatever happens in parliament or whatever the GG decides to EVERYONE ( be it western separatists, Quebec or any other province separatists). Please remember that we are one country, one people. I don't need a country torn apart by foolish in the House of Commons!

There is no difference between the western separatists and those in Québec because both want to tear the country apart.

As a franco-ontarian I believe in a United and Strong Canada!

Terence
said

We have a parliamentary system. We have suffered through it's shortcomings with its floor-crossings and first-past the post problems and its inablilty to allow the public to vote for prime minister. On the up-side, this system rewards opposition parties who can co-operate to defeat bad leadership. Thank goodness we've lived long enough to finally see the up-side of this system at work.

alan
said

why is southern ontario suffering an economic hard times...thank the unions for that...the average worker in the auto industry is making $70/hr...compete with that...why are you blaming harper for your woes...take a course in business 101....

Mel from Calgary
said

This is a conservative party crisis that Harper is turning into a national unity crisis.

The governor generals response to his request to suspend parliament only to avoid a confidence vote would create a horrendous precedent.

Her response should be "I'll get back to you tuesday 9 Dec."

Pat
said

I was very proud of Prime Minister Harper last night. I was very embarrassed and felt sorry for Mr. Dion. I refuse to subject myself to further tyrades and hate spouting from Mr. Layton so did not listen to him.

What this country now needs to do is amend our constitution so that ultimately the people of Canada as a whole have the final decision on who we want running our country - whether good or bad it will be our decision.

Today - what will be, will be. I for one am prepared to vote on Christmas Eve if that's what it takes to put and end to the hijack and obstuction that we are witnessing now. This coalition is not even close to being prepared for the task at hand - I've tried to stay open. All I got from Dion was fluff and puff, no numbers, no plan just this very pretty picture of an imaginary utopic society - his speach was written well, for a novel!

Let us all go home and enjoy our families with peace of mind that the thieves with their keys to the money chest can do no more harm. The damage has already been done, we again will survive the further crash of our economy and our retirement savings and celebrate the season of peace and goodwill, warmth, kindness and generosity!

Mr. Harper you have my full permission to do whatever it takes to keep Canada strong & free!

Merry Christmas everyone.

Marg
said

Yeah ... if GG allows Harper to prorogue parliament... all the MPs get an early and extra long paid holiday only to come back to more of the same in January...

I'd like a prolonged paid holiday myself, wouldn't you... especially if you made such a blunder as Harper made. Yes let it all simmer down so it can be forgotten... hmmm we should all have such an easy way out of our problems... and be paid too!

As for the Coalition, why not give it a try... let them shoot themselves in the foot then we'll have an election and perhaps the buffoons will be replaced with real leaders.

It's the holidays... Merry Christmas and Bah HuMBuG from the politicians to Canadians!

Jeff H. from Lucan Ontario
said

Our economic problems cannot be solved by simply injecting more money into the economy and crossing our fingers that things will turn around in the future. This is a global problem that requires a global solution. Canada needs a leader to represent us on the global stage. Is Stephane Dion, the liberal "leader" who did not even win in his own riding, the one Canadians want representing us? I believe we already voted on that and the answer is no. Stephen Harper's professionalism represents us well on the world stage. The government just needs to start working together and not against each other. Our taxes are paying for all their actions. If the coalition TAKES control without the vote of people, say good-bye to all minority governments of the future. Opposition parties should not be allowed to merge based on "what's in it for me" agreements.

Realize there is more than just the government to blame for the current economic crisis. I'm thinking of Albert Einstein's definition of insanity: doing the same thing over and over and expecting different results. We all (business organizations and people) need to start thinking about changing our ways. We can't always expect others to solve problems for us.

That's my 2 cents.

Jay
said

It's time for a cooling off period. Our last election was early due to the fact that the political parties in Canada couldn't work together in a commitee structure which is the basis of a coalition. The coalition has said it will provide a fiscal stimulas plan, but lets be realisitc the plan is for the auto sector in Ontario and the forest indusrty in Quebec. What about the rest of Canada? Our economy is tied to the USA. It's their own greed that has created this econmic issue. How will helping the auto or foresty industry create jobs when we need the USA to be buying cars and building houses to help these industries. They're not? Jack Layton want to shut down the Oilsnads in Alberta. As the proposed environmental minister he'll try. The oilsands employes people Canada wide. If the coalition gets power they may be able to create jobs but they cost them to.
Its time to stop thinking about politicla needs and look to see what the country needs as a whole east to west and not just Quebec and Ontario.

Mr. Albertan get your fact right
said

Some people in Quebec voted for the bloc not all! Get your fact right. It people like you that cause all these confusions.

You probably voted NDP not much better in my view!

Marty
said

Everyone says that a minority of voters voted for Harper. However, he did receive more votes than any other single party. If the left wants to continue to claim that they received a majority of the votes, then they should simply combine parties. The Liberals under Cretien never won parliament with at least 50% of the vote. We didn't hear day in and day out that he is governing on the support of less than half of the population of Canadians. The hypocricy is getting to be annoying.

BlairJ
said

To all that would say the majority of MPs in the House have lost confidence in Mr. Harper and his Conservative government I would say you are correct. However, the fundamental question is of those sitting MPs how many represent the interests of a united and strong Canada - if you answer that question honestly and truthfully, then the answer is clear that Mr. Harper and the Conservatives hold the majority.
Please put partisan politics aside and realize that this coalition is a power grab that is beholden to the separatists and only serves to strengthen their position and weaken Canada. The federalist parties should look beyond this bickering and work for Canada, not the separatist.

A Guenther - Burnaby
said

I don't want to sit around for another month and a half while parliament is prorogued, wondering what's going to happen, watching the stock market every day, and worrying about the economy.
We need action now. The governor general should pass power to the Coalition and make all the PC mps work in the file rooms or the photo copy rooms over the holidays. It might give them a sense of how the government is supposed to work and it's ground floor operations. This is coupled with being disciplined for wasting time having another election, the space of time till now without a reasonable budget, and this week where the non confidence vote was postponed.
To think they want to extend that time even more with further inaction is incomprehensible.

Nicole
said

Canada voted for the conservatives for a reason. When it comes down to it they were the elected government. Do you really think that is a good time for canada to be thinking of a coalation government? Especially when the leader would be replace in around 5 months?

Anne M
said

I called the LPC and asked them WHY, would they allow such a stupid person like Dion and his bunch of idiots release a tape like this. It was an infantile production, my 2 yr old grandson could do better. There excuse was, "well we are not used to being the opposition".This lame bunch of idiots want to run the country.

Dave from Cold Lake, AB
said

To the Right Honourable GG. If the coalition does in fact take power from the democratically elected government let me be the first to advize you that the new coalition has lost the confidence and the support of the people and that parliment should be closed and let the Canadian tax payer decide, AGAIN, hmmm sound familiar? How can the average Canadian possibly trust a coalition government that includes a party who's sole purpose is to split up this great country? To Mr. Dion & Mr. Layton, do you honestly think that siding with the seperatists is what the Canadian people really wanted? I for one don't want it so please refrain from standing up in the house of commons and say that's what the people want, because it's a lie!

Suzanne Jensen Victoria
said

This delusional power grab from ALL parties seems to have brought this country to its knees in regards to unity. The separatist rhetoric is now echoing from all sides of our country while the economic crisis deepens. Now that is a coup Mr. Harper,Mr Dion,Mr. Layton and Mr. Duceppe

Kim in Calgary
said

Suspending government in this economic crisis is just plain irrational...the global economic picture is not going to come to a halt just because our federal government can't play together in the same sandbox. Mr. Harper has lost the confidence of the house and it is time for him to go. On another point, not all Albertans' want Mr. Harper either and I as a native Albertan sure don't! s,

Morgan from Manitoba
said

If Dion's speech last night was any indication on his ability to run the country I would say he failed horribly! Delivering his taped speech late and delivering a tape of very poor quality leads me to ask one very crucial question; If you can not deliver items on time and of professional quality why would we want you running our country? Compared to running a country operating a camcorder should be a walk in the park! What I saw last night leads me to believe that until the Liberals do some internal re-organzation they can not govern any better than the Conservatives.

Catherine
said

The Conservative Party doesn't have the support of the majority. It got 38% of the vote, which is LOW.
If we had second turn elections in Canada, Dion would have been elected, as anti-charismatic as he may be.
So please, stop saying that Canadians chose Harper. I've never seen such a convergence AGAINST a candidate in an election before.

Terry Garcia
said

Doesn't the new U.S Government make ours look petty, silly and unprofessional? Everyone seems so upset and confused, this is all whithin the rules and perfectly legal, these MP's were all elected by Candains, 65% didn't want Harper in and he won't be for long, (what's undemocratic about that?), other countries have to do this all the time, it's not the end of the world.

Sharon
said

Stephen Harper is like other bullies He causes a problem and then blames the people he tried to cause harm to.Its time for him to take responsablitity for his actions and then deal with the possible out come. Instead of asking the governer general to give parliment a break he must let the members of parliment do their jobs.

Tom Hawley
said

If Harper put a confidence vote (which he had done many times in the previous parliament)to which the Liberals and the NDP voted against while the Bloc supported ,would you Conservatives be outraged that Harper took their support?
Doubt it.
Perhaps you should contact your MP's and have them overturn any motions that were passed with the support of the Bloc.
The Bloc is NOT part of the coalition.They are going to support the Lib/NDP coaltion.
As they did with the Conservatives.
Some that post should go see an optometrist.It has become obvious that some have lost their peripheral vision.

pat
said

Enough of you posters insulting the rest of us for our lack of parliamentary procedure knowledge - well I'm a result of a Canadian Public School Education - what does that say - oh maybe I was absent the day we covered the possiblity of this!! Get over yourself

Tlast Ottawa
said

Dion is a joke. Period. It was well evident last night on his youtube video which they couldn't even get to the media on time. His own party doesn't even want him! And now this is his last attempt to be PM so as not to be the first Liberal leader in a 100 years not to be PM. This is a power grab. Pure and simple.

The Socialist-Separatist Coalition has no legitimate reason for what they are doing. Clear thinking Canadians can see through the crap that it's really about their own jobs. It's not about what's good for Canada.

You know I can understand how some Canadians, (tree huggers that is. lol) see PM as a bully. That's because they haven't seen any real leadership in this country in generations. So they confuse big smiles and forking out taxpayers cash to special interest groups and dying industries as leadership. That's not leadership, that's political opportunity to get your vote, so they can continue to feed of the system. That's old political crap. PM Harper only has the best economic interests at heart for this country. Can he be trusted in this position? Of course he can. Do I like him and his personality? Perhaps not. Do I respect him and trust him to do the right thing? Absolutely.

At the end of the day, that's all that matters to me.

Kimberly Noronha
said

I am outrageous that during these times of economic uncertainty, that Dion and Layton would add to it by chasing after their own best interest. This is appalling, and while it may be legal, it's certainly a poor example of democracy. We as the Canadians spoke when we cast our votes in October, and we rejected Dion as our leader then, I don't see that anything has changed. Is the new motto of Canada that if you don't get what you want, then you should just take it by any means? Appalling.

Diane from Wainfleet
said

All this talk about suspending the government, the elected officials break for the holidays, how long is their break? If we have to wait until Jan. for the budget to be presented, what is the problem? Let the budget be presented then let the house decide if the "coalition" can work with the elected government to find a solution that can help all Canadians.

Olivia
said

It's been two months since the election, change takes time, and no one can expect massive issues to be solved in a matter of weeks. I think Governor General Michaelle Jean should suspend parliament and allow Harper to continue his minority government. Stephan Dion and Jack Layton continually but heads and they plan to partner up with a party that is looking to separate their province from the country. Canada I feel, will go in a down hill spiral if the opposition over takes Harper. However, what Harper does need to do is work with the other parties because everyone is looking to help Canada at this time.

Isabel
said

I think a lot of this support for the coalition is out of a personal hatred for Harper. However, the liberals are completely within their rights outlined by the constitution. If the PM has lost the trust of the House, which he has, then a coalition is justified. Harper has taken away the rights of women to protest inequity in the workplace, and has taken away public funding for parties. These are basic rights, and Harper is PM of a minority government, so the House and opposition are allowed to challenge his word.

Robert Nimmo
said

Bring on the election. Jack Layton will never be able to understand what hit him when he goes down to defeat in flames. Dion is already done.

My signs are ready to in the ground.

Louise Laporte
said

During his tenure as Prime Minister, Stephen Harper has clearly shown that he is unable to compromise and that is exactly what is needed as a leader in minority government situations. His government's gratuitious attacks in the economic statement are solely responsible for the current "crisis". Yet, rather than admitting his mistakes, he is fanning the flames of national disunity in a desperate attempt to shift blame away from his own bad judgment. He is even resorting to George Bush's tactic of labelling anyone who opposes him as anti-democratic. To equate protecting democracy with the survival of his government is the action of a scoundrel. Mr. Harper's total disrespect for our Parliamentary democracy and indeed for Canadian voters is now on display for all to see. Shame on him. He doesn't deserve the office he holds.

Jim - Thornhill - Ontario
said

I'm sorry! Mr Harper brought this upon himself. You cannot rule a minority government like a major government and not get burned.

He shouold have sucked it up and worked with the other parties and fast tracked Canada's economic and financial crisis plan.

When you play with fire there is a pretty good chance you get burned!

Yvon from Ottawa
said

Please, Governor General Jean, allow Harper the opportunity to prove himself. Canadians voted democratically and Harper became our Prime Minister. Please do NOT allow the coalition, which includes a provincial separatist party, to form a new government. This is the right thing to do.

Peter Rapsey
said

What a farce last night was. Mr. Harper came across like a used car salesman; Mr. Dion came across like a forgetful professor; Mr. Layton came across as someone who is out of his league. As a strong Canadian Unity believer, I have to say that, on last nights speeches, Mr. Duceppe was the most sincere, most believable and most competent leader on stage last night. 2 things are for sure, We need Action right now on the economy and we can't wait until january; and 3 parties need new leaders if anything is going to happen.

Paul in SJ
said

Wow. Dion continues to insist that no deal was made with the BQ, why then do we keep seeing footage of Layton, Dion and Duceppe sitting together, signing an accord and shaking hands. Looks like they were closing some sort of deal.

Many people are saying to give the coalition a chance, that we don't want to spend $300M on another election. People forget that if we the people allow the coalition to take power then we are going to see a $30 Billion package that may or may not stimulate the economy. The professional opinions are mixed on wether or not a package would have an impact.

I would prefer to spend $300 million over $30 Billion any day. And this way we the people will have our say and once and tell the party leaders what our will is.

Rod Ennis-Smith
said

1) This is not about the latest mini budget. The coalition had this planned months ago.
2) Dion is the worst leader we have ever seen, a disater just looking for an oportunity, his own party agree.
3) Harper is a true leader,get on the train or move over.
4) In this coelition Qnebec would have the last word.what about the west?
5) This will be devasting to Canada.

Dave MacKinnon Barrie, ONT
said

Ok kids lets all take a second to shake our heads, drop the rhetoric and look at what is going on in a reasonable manner. Regarding comments that Mr. Harper's intent is to destroy Canada, I think if you take a look you'll understand that Mr. Harper is in politics to try to stop Alberta from separating and in fact it is the kind of poor sportsmanship the coalition group are displaying that is adding to the separatist feeling in Alberta.

I find it interesting that Mr. Dion in his speech said Mr. Harper should accept the members of parliament decision that they have no confidence in his leadership and resign. How about Mr. Dion taking the decision of the Canadian electorate with a little grace and allowing Mr. Harper a chance. Let him table his first budget and see if it works. If not then form a coalition and bring down the government.

On a related note I don't hear any apologies coming from those NDP and Liberal spokespersons who essentially called Mr. Harper a liar when he said he called the election partly because parliament had come to a standstill because the opposition parties were not interested in working together.

Esther
said

Grow Up!!!! We've already voted! Canadaians have already made clear who we want to lead this country. Layton & Dion need to grow up and stop acting like 4 year olds. My children act more grown up then these two sore losers. Stephen Harper has done alot of good for Canada in the last 2 years. Suck up your defeat, act like grown ups and work together instead of working against eachother. I'm ashamed to be a Canadian. We look like fools towards the world.

Darth Razmus, warlord of alberta
said

Truthfully the time has come to show the boobs who really is in control of this country. People I ask that next election we spoil our ballots. the more people who vote and do this the stronger the message we send to our "leaders". Seriuosly I am fed up with all politicians. NExt election on my ballot I am writing the word cake on my ballot and checking it off

garyjolly
said

Not withstanding the posturing.

If dictator elect Dion can not even show enough respect for the media to provide a tape to them on time?

How are canadians supposed to believe he can get your EI check there on time or your tax refunds there on time?

He and his cronies are neither fit to govern much less mandated to govern. Parlimentary confidence, DOES NOT outway the vote totals.

Don't worry about Quebec seperating... right now everything west of Manitoba is talking seperation. That means no oil, no crops no lumber generally no basics for eastern canada.

The west is sick and tire of paying $1,25 of tax to quebec for every dollar in federal benefits they recieve.

The anger is not at the seperatists it is westernerners are not going to pay quebec to get out

Lorne Jordan
said

Prorogue or resign Stephen! Then we can have an election and get a Conservative majority so that the Liberal Coalition can be stopped!

Johann Flores -Vancouver
said

If this Coalition is "technically" legal, then fine.

BUT it can be said then that "technically" NOBODY voted for this Coalition because it did not exist prior to the election.

Let's settle it once and for all. CALL AN ELECTION.

Kerry in Calgary of the NEW Republic of Alberta
said

WOW!! What a mess these three stooges have created. If Stephanne Dion's "amateur NIght" video address last night is any indication, this coalistion is nothing but a ship of fools riding on a wave of public fear mongering, fueled by a wind of power hungry greed. I've taken better video of my kid's birthday parties with my HD video camera. These guys aren't ready to lead, they do not have their act together. And by the way, for those who keep referring to the majority want this coalition, 0% voted for a coalition in the last election!

Al -Ontario
said

If another election is needed we should make the opposition parties pay for the election. Maybe then they might think twice about not working with a democratically elected government. Does anyone really expect the NDP/Liberal/Bloc partnership to last more than a few weeks? The GG should prorouge parliament and allow all sides to work out a compromise and get on with running the country instead of playing games.

Dwight
said

What type of country are we living in if the goverment doesn't respect the people's choices? We chose Stephen Harper for a reason and we want him to stay in power.

If the party falls we know longer live in a democratic country, we live in a country that the people have no say.

Lyndon
said

How can a Prime Minister who 'wins' a second minority government during a period of extremely weak Liberal leadership view this as a mandate from the Canadian people to govern? As a minority leader, you must have the support of at least one other party to make any progress in the H of C. This means that if Harper was to pass anything he would need the support of either the seperatist Bloc, the socialist NDP, or the weak traitourous Liberals. This is the way our parliament works. Would Harper be a seperatist, a socialist, or a traitor for doing so? No, he would just be doing what is necessary to make the house work.

Dave in Newington
said

This fiasco can only be truly solved with another election....
Never mind the $300 million it will cost, because the cost to democracy will be far more if this type of stunt is allowed to happen every time a minority government is elected.True democracy is a bargain at $8 each!
As far as having a low turnout, I think the turnout for any new election will be very high, showing these clowns exactly what Canadians think of them....
I just wonder if they will run in the next election as the "New Coalition", or if they will revert once more to their regular parties....either way I believe they will be on the receiving end of the ire of a LOT of working Canadians...emphasis on working....we can't all be MPs!

Metro Man
said

Time for an election and the 3 talking heads can run as a coalition and if they get elected that way then fine.

John
said

Since our economy is tied to the US and they have yet to decide on what or how to deal with not only the automoble industry but also the $700 billion financial package for the banks, why would the Conservatives rush out and try to solve these same problems on their own. Sure, bailout the auto industry with billions of dollars and then find the US lets its automobile manufacturers go bankrupt - whoops - where did our billions go?
My greatest fear here is the BLOC, avowed to separate Quebec from Canada - but for the lust for power, Dion and Layton will do anything to get the power, even at the expense of a united Canada.

Greg S
said

I don't know why people are constantly whining about Harper not getting the majority of the vote. It's how our FPTP system works! If that's not good enough then maybe the discussion should be about whether to adopt proportional representation or not, instead of spinning the numbers trying to justify a coalition. Other PMs have been elected with less than 50% support, but it seems that because Harper is PM, this is now being used as a rallying cry for a coalition. I guess people will use whatever excuse they can to support anti-Harper views.

Karen
said

I am really ashamed to be Canadian. The vote was cast and our leader chosen. I feel like i am living in a 3rd world country. I should get into politics!!. Run a crappy campaign,get my seat..and then cause chaos when my funding from the government stops and i can no longer afford my $500 dollar of wine.. i can "democratically" just declare mutiny !! The Collation groups did not win the election..but if they are in strong disagreement with the budget outlined by by Mr. Harper, why would they not work like adults and find a compromise. After all they are supposed to be fluent speakers that are able to use their words not behave as 3 year olds.. also food for thought, when Mr. Dion retires... who then decides who our next leader will be ??

Peter
said

What I find amusing in all of this is people not having more foresight in not re-electing this clown, leading a party who has more concerns about their own trivial image & unilateral approach than actually governing the nation.

Having arrived at this point, it only shows how the theater of politics as much as our justice system cannot be taken seriously... cynicism isn't born out of ignorance but rather stems from a system that is clearly bent on serving itself rather than the ones it is meant to serve. The terms de jure and de facto government inevitably come to mind...

Brett from burlington
said

Hey bruce from Calgary... Please don't call others people losers just because you don't like them... Stephane dion may not be the best leader... But he is a person and has feelings.. You wouldn't say it to his face so don't be a coward and say it here... What needs to happen is harper needs to do something to secure our economy or somebody else must do it...

If we don't want to to down like the states we must forget about who the leader is and what party is in power... And worry about our weakening economy... Once that problem is fixed they can go on with this bickering in parliment

Pete in Victoria
said

First off, lay blame where blame should be. In this case two places. Initially with the majority of Canadians who failed to vote in the past election. YOU DID NOT VOTE, therefore you have no voice and no ground to stand on. Your apathy to the past election has cost Canadians dearly.

Secondly, the blame lies with the Prime Minister. He ran for the Conservatives during the election but after he must represent the views of all Canadians. Clearly he has failed to do this. Individually none of these parties are doing that. Each is representing their own interests. At least with a coalition the views of the minority of Canadians that voted are represented. Under the current regime, roughly 38% of the 16 million people who voted are represented...for those that say the PM and his ways represent all of how Canada is feeling, only 17% of Canada's population voted for him. Therefore I think the pleas that most of Canadians are for him and against the coalition are grossly exaggerated.

Mr PM. represent ALL Canadians and you have our support. Represent the limited views of those that supported you to become PM and you deal with the consequences.

I don't like what is happening but the current alternative is far worse.

D.B. Smith
said

For the first time in decades, the province of Quebec may have just over played their hand with the ground swell that is growing outside of Quebec.

If this rage stays and I do mean rage, the Conservatives may just return to power with a majority and will put the redistribution of seats in the west where they should be.

With those new seats, Quebec and the Bloc will be on the outside looking in, with no leverage.

PS to all reports there are four provinces west of Ontario and Ontario is not happy as well.

James Reid
said

Westerners,
Don't missconstrue the facts. Many of us in the east don't have any issues with the west, only with Stephen Harper! We need a leader. Someone who can show leadership, bridge barriers politically, morally and can govern in these turbulent times. What we don't need is a manipulating, hypocritical, self absorbed control freak. Everyone should ask for his resignation and give the job to someone who understands the reality of the times.
James from Hamilton

Don from Ottawa
said

The excuses given for this political coup seem to change every day. It is clearly a manufactured crisis, designed to seize power without holding an election. It is obscene.

The socialist regime in Canada is out of control. It has whipped itself into such a self-righteous, hysterical frenzy that people like Elizabeth May can run around making asinine remarks about the Prime Minister surrounding Parliament with tanks, and nobody bats an eye.

This is the new "normal" in Canada, and Conservatives everywhere are sick of it. They've had enough. Change is coming, and the events unfolding in Ottawa just might prove to be the flash point.

Daniel, NL
said

Canadians did not choose Mr.Harper to unilaterally lead Canada. He won a minority government which means that the country does not trust him enough to rule Canada without being chaperoned by the opposition parties. He was warned by our (legal) constitution that if he fails to prove his capacity to responsibly govern serious matters, such as the financial futures of Canadians, then the chaperones can (legally) remove him from his position of power and take over. This is a cornerstone of democracy.

Harper has proven that he does not have the requisite skills to lead Canada diplomatically and with civility and cooperation and therefore, has to (legally) leave the leading to the chaperons.

Hopefully, the good citizens of Alberta and Quebec will ignore the desperate, hateful, fear mongering rhetoric coming from Mr. Harper and respect the Canadian Constitution that has (legally) served us so well since the inception of this great nation.

Bryan de Roos
said

I some how just can't see how quickly after a election that this no confidence vote can happen. Deals were made for a minority government and now they are broken. Now a new alliance has been made. Hmmm sounds like something is not right but i guess that is poltics.
I guess Robin Williams was right when he stated in a movie was to treat politicians like diapers, change they often and for the same reason.
Same on all federal parties but especially the liberal and NDP for making a alliance with the bloc which is not a federal party to me.
You all are acting like bunch of spoiled kids
This is not the time for your power grabs,

Paul inDryden on.
said

Who pays to heat Rideau Hall?
Close the doors.I feel that the GG should not give audience to the three stooges.

Doug Moen, Fergus ON
said

If a government needs the confidence of the House to govern does not the House need the confidence to the people to alter the government? The resolution of the crisis we are in should not be left up to any of the self-serving the people who caused it. Let us decide.

Cheryl in Petawawa
said

To those that believe the Bloc are not seperatists-you are obviosly not even listening when Ducceppe speaks. He keeps saying, "this coalition is good for the seperatist movement in Quebec." His manifesto even states that it is the aim of the Bloc to accomplish a seperation from Canada. They like to call it sovreignity but it is all the same.

'

Maureen, B.C.
said

I cannot believe that the commentators in Ottawa don't get it that this is about unity! How can they not understand that the hyjacking of parliament by a partisan bunch of Easterners, including separatists, could be anything else. This is not about the economy- they simply used that as a jumping off place. Canada is doing just fine thank you!! We are the strongest of all the G-7 countries. We may have a few industries in trouble but we will deal with those. Get Real guys!!!
Travel to the West & talk to the people!!

Debbie
said

I'm dreaming of a headline that will read:

"PARLIAMENT PROROGUED WITHOUT PAY."

Debbie, Ottawa

Markus
said

TOO LITTLE, TOO LATE!
The time to work with the other parties was before they past the "mini budget" -Harper missed his chance.

Richard C. Harris
said

We all have seen that three parties with totally opposing ideologies have been able to agree to vote in unity to overthrow our election results which the people of Canada choose. They have note voted in parlaiment in the past, so who would believe they will in the future. This overthrow, recipocal coo should be outlawed.
When an election for the Federal Canadian parliament is settled, the number of elected menbers of the leading party should be noted. Independent menbers, Parties with the least menbers should be removed from the parlaiment, in order of the least menbers, until the opposition has less menbers in the house than the ruling party. They would not be in a part of parliment until the next Federal election. This could remove those who are least represented by the votes of the people voting and remove the treat of ruining the palimentary process.
We have also seen that certain opposition menbers have acted like rabid wolves in parliamentary question period. There should be law which is inforced in parliament that if a member persists in disrubting the flow of business in question period by asking the same questions, even in different ways, the member will be escorted out of the property of the Parliament building and made to stay of this land for one full week by inforcment of the RCMP. That member will recieve no pay during this period. If the same menber repeats this disruption again they will recieve the same penalty. On a third repeat that member should be removed from perticipating in Federal politics in Canada in their life time.
Our parliament should not be trying to replace Royal Canadian Air Farce. Question peroid is not on the comidy network. They should not be infuriating voters, investers, employers hoping to stay in business, all of whom have watched the fabric of our society dissipate. What we need is stability, wise choices, builting confidence, not the anger of the voters. WE HAVE TO LET THE ELECTED MEMBERS OF THE CONSERVATIVE PARTY CONTINUE WITH THERE PLANNED APPROACH. WE MUST RESTICT REBELION. WE HAVE TO WORK TOGETHER TO TRY WITH GODS HELP TO TRY TO REBUILD CANADA BEFORE THIS TASK IS IMPOSSILE.

Ted
said

Our neighbour, USA, is still negotiating with big 3 in Detroit, and did not promise anything to them. Why did Canadian government give a blank cheque to big 3 auto in Canada? Tory government ministers are closely monitor this issue.

Spending 30 billion is easy task, but we should identify the targets for spending. All top talented folks in US government still cannot find a way to find the crisis. How can these 3 partners assure their 30 billion plan should fix the current problems? If so, they will be moninated to the economic award next year. Please be noted that USA spent over 100 billion dollars, but, the situation is not fixed yet. How can our 30 billion do their work? Reality, NDP wants to give back money to big union. They don't care about the small business.

Why do we not give current government next 5 to 6 month probation?

Jeannette B
said

Mr Harper, I wish you well, hope every thing goes well.

We don't need a coalition espcially not that team, Dion, Layton, and Duceppe.

Dennis from Southport, MB
said

Harper's speech did the job last night because the only issue here is the attempt to grab power by the opposition.
If you listen to the "experts on the economy", they are split on what kind of or even if a stimulus package is required right now. If the putt looks like it could break left or right, it must be straight. Stay the course!

StandOnGaurd4Thee
said

What will be, will be. What I heard in the last election was that the Conservative have cut personal income taxes for Canadians, and under a Liberal/Coalition Prime Minister we will probably all see our personal income taxes go up, and a lot of Canadians do not have much financial wiggle room these days. Bottom line for Canadians is how this unfolding will affect each individual household. Canadians will sacrifice if they can, but many are at their limit.

David Willis
said

Our parliamentary tradition allow for this coalition to occur. Nonetheless I consider it reprehensible for the for two supposed federalist parties in the Liberals and NDP to sign a deal with the separatist Bloq Quebecois. This demonstrates extremely poor judgement on the part of Jack Layton and Stephan Dion.

Leslie Steenson
said

This is really stupid already. We've just had an election,but none of them were worth voting for or you would have had a better turn out like they had in the States.

Second of all, the "coalition" just are trying to get their way once more which in the end will screw us even more since all they want is to benfit themselves and screw everyone else.

Our G.G needs to tell each of these guys to go to their corners till they want to actually sit down and be willing to help not hinder.

I think we need new people at the helm who actually think of the country and its people and what's best for them rather than trying to keep this power struggle up.

Guys it's time to finally grow up and put your big boy gitch on instead of acting like spoiled brats.
Hopefully we'll find some resolution sooner than later about this whole situation or we'll all be suffering.

Margaret MacDonald
said

What bothers me is how, even now, Stephen Harper refuses to accept that it was his arrogance and lack of leadership within a minority government situation that led to the response of the other 3 parties. The coalition is not unconstituional, but if he had have proved prime ministerial and approached the other 3 parties for compromise before making it a dire either or proposal to the Governor General, we would not be in these uncertain times. Is an expensive election to try and save his party's hide really worth it to the Canadian people. I think whatever our personal beliefs, we need to get out there and voice them, as the privileged members of parliament that have been voted into office need to understand where we stand.

Evan Halifax
said

Wow. The Reform / Alliance Party is alive and well in this country. I can live with that, but why do they insist on subverting our wonderful democracy? All Canadians know (if they don't it is their own fault for not taking an interest) that coalition governments are a posibility when a minority government is in power. Canadians, via the MP's that they elected, have overwhelmingly lost confidence in the Conservative Government. I hope that the GG does not allow the Government to duck tail and run away from their own stupidity. Have the vote on Monday. To the coalition :
Don't blink,don't back down.

laurence
said

I think that All 308 MP's in Ottawa that won their own local ridings with less than 50% of the votes should go home. All those that won their riding with over 50% of the vote should stay in Ottawa. And all those that lost their own Local riding should join together with the other losers and share being the MP for their own riding

Gerard
said

The comment that Quebec are upset with the view that they are still supporting seperatism with Canada. Im my view the fact that they supported a faction of government that has a clear objective to seperate from Canada speaks volumes about what is on their mind. They should have known upfront that a large contingent of Bloc Representation in the House of Commons would indicate exactly that. They should have thought of that on the 14th of October. It's not only the conservativesin this country thinking this.

Jim Mount Forest Ontario
said

This is not what the Canadians want....let the opposition vote down what they do not agree with, do not let 3 parties who do not represent the best interests of our country take over! Let the voters speak if necessary, I'm sure Dions results would be no better than the last election!

dobby411
said

A coalition government could be a good thing. There are numerous countries that regularly have coalition governments

Italy - 61 governments in the past 63 years.

India - As of July 15, 2008 the coalition government is made up of the following parties.

* Indian National Congress (153 MPs)
* Rashtriya Janata Dal (24 MPs)
* Dravida Munnetra Kazhagam (2 MPs)
* Nationalist Congress Party (11 MPs)
* Pattali Makkal Katchi (6 MPs)
* Jharkhand Mukti Morcha (5 MPs)
* Lok Janshakti Party (4 MPs)
* Marumalarchi Dravida Munnetra Kazhagam (rebel faction) (2 MPs)
* All India Majlis-e-Ittehadul Muslimeen (1 MP)
* People's Democratic Party (1 MP)
* Republican Party of India (Athvale) (1 MP)
* Sikkim Democratic Front (1 MP)
* Indian Union Muslim League (1 MP)

Outside support is currently being offered by the Samajwadi Party (33 MPs), the Bharatiya

Navshakti Party (1 MP), the National Conference (2 MPs) and by the National Loktantrik Party (1 MP). In addition, rebel MPs from Biju Janata Dal , the Bharatiya Janata Party, the
Janata Dal (United), the Telugu Desam Party and the independent MPs take the tally of UPA supporting MPs to 275.

Even the Sudan has had several coalition governments - though currently, I am not sure if
they have any government.

Come on Canada, let's join in!

Ronald in Toronto
said

Clearly, a number of esteemed bloggers are operating from an incredibly distorted understanding of a majority of Canadian's reality.

I find this attempt at stealing The House away from the elected government - at all costs to be an enlightenening exercise.

The NDP and, more specifically, the Liberals are once again revelaed to be a.) cynical opportunists and b.) the consistent liars, manipulators, elitists and spinmeisters they have demonstrated themselves to be in the past.

The Bloc cannot be faulted for responding as they are. They can, however, be faulted for their agenda.

I look for sanity in all of this and I find... in the person of Stephen Harper and his colleagues.

I do not write off the possibility that some Liberal or NDP backbenchers are coughing up bile and having more sobering, second thoughts on the conduct of their leadership.

Corey in Manitoba
said

I hope the GG lets the vote go through so we can move on. Either way we have to move on, and if we don't have a resolution it will drag the dollar and TSX down to historic lows.

That being said, I still think we are in for a few surprized before Mondays vote. The libs may be planning a mutany of there leader, and not vote how he wants. If Dion's plan fails, the libs will be relagated to last place in the HOC, after the next election. Does Iggy really want that. If they do go through with a mutany, I think that the liberals would regain most of the credability they have lost because of Dion. Dion is famous for not listeneing to his advisors and he may have bitten off more than he can chew here.

Just a thought

Peter
said

There is a way out of this:
GG to refuse suspending parliament at the same time making it clear that she won't allow the coalition and a defeat of the government next Monday automatically means election.

This will force all four parties to work together for an economic package in this crunch time when the country needs political stability.

Mary Clarke
said

Was anyone surprised to see Jacque Parizeau congratulating Duceppe in weakening the Govt.to advance their Separatist agenda?
That's exactly what the Separatists want.
Good going Dion and Layton.
No wonder decent Liberals like Frank Mckenna and John Manley want no part of this unholy alliance.

Judy - Montreal
said

Hi,

I find it so funny that the Coalition is talking about families and losing if their jobs. I believe that Mr Dion is too emotional to run a country and not a strong enough fiqure. I do believe that as Canadians we voted in the last election a minority gouvernment. I also believe the reason the Canadian people voted for this type of gouvernement is that they wanted it to work. All this is about is POWER and for sure they did not like the fact about removing the Public Financing of Political Parties. How do we expect the Coalition who is in debt themselves run this Country. I still cannot believe it - I listened to Mr Dion's speech and I know he is not the person to run the show. We should allow Mr Harper to run this gouvernment with the other parties as elected. I believe that our Gouvernment should be very careful on how they proceed. THE WORLD IS WATCHING! They are like a bunch of kids is a school yard - han han I am stronger than you. We as Canadians should be working together we have such a beautiful country and so much to be proud of. Let's show the WORLD on what we as Canadians are able to do. We are in a financial crisis it is not the time to be acting foolish. The priorty should be working together and not one against each other.

Yes, we should protect our jobs, but at what cost to the tax payer can we really afford to be so much more in debt, this is what Mr Harper would like to do is minimize this what do the other parties do not understand. It is not really a responsible way of doing business. During these times we cannot help everyone out - such as the cars companies they have put themselves in this mess - before handing any money then need a good plan. We must ask ourselves the new plant for Toyota why are they able to succeed and the Canadian and American automakers are not. I hope someone is asking the question.

I would like to mention that we all want to protect our jobs and our economy - BUY CANADIAN - As Canadians we must support our economy. Our Political Parties Logo should be BUY CANADIAN TO PROTECT OUR JOBS.

Please keep our Gouvernment as it was elected 3 weeks ago. They need to stop and listen to each other. The Canadian people do not want to be more in debt. Think of our future generations we should be building and not destroying.

Walter Lacombe
said

Alberta is the engine that drives Canada. Any way you look at it we give more money then we get, and we have done it for many many years. It is easy for people from other provinces to say that we should share wealth, when we are the ones that live with high costs. The east is once again trampling over the west, and it will cause a large rift. This is the legacy of Dion and Layton. I for one support the idea of the west sepperating. Not because I dont love canada, but because canada does not seem to love us.

Peter Colbourne (St-Jerome, QC)
said

Fire the lot! If we really are their boss, then I say spend the $160 million and change the whole damn crowd. Liberals look like NDP, the Bloc is off-the-radar and the conservatives just don't get it! Change we can believe in needs to come to Canada!!!

Selvin Montreal
said

We as a nation (at least the majority) did elect Harper as Prime Minister, whether we did so indirectly by voting for the MP in our riding, we nevertheless voted for Harper.
As to Dion's capacity of proper leadership: impossible.
As to the last-minute plan for a coalition: totally unprofessional and rather a knee-jerk reaction to a well-thought-out decision from the Tories to postpone the budget.
Will the GG acquiesce to Harper's demands? Very likely so.

Jen Ruch, Wpg
said

THIS IS A NON-PARTISAN ISSUE. quoting a comment from yesterday: Democracy ceases to exist when peoples' votes are ignored. PERIOD.
our Veterans deserve more respect than this.

Harry Oosterhoff - Stony Plain, AB
said

If Dion can campaign during the election that he will NOT form a coalition with the NDP and against the BLOC, and then do it just to gain power, what makes Liberals think he won't try undo his "resignation" from the leadership of the party once he successfully manipulates himself into the Prime Minister's chair?

Mary Clarke
said

Nathan,
Did it ever occur to you,that Alberta has been consistently left without any say ,while Eastern Canada controls the reigns?
And once again,that is happening.
The West has been asking to be represented for years,but the Eastern Politicians simply will not have it.
I think I'll move out West if they ever do separate.
That should make people like you happy,who believe that if your not a Liberal or NDP'er,you should have no voice at all.

Johnnie Oil
said

NATHAN; I sure hope you are right, but I personally prefer President Harper as we will be a republic with true rights and freedoms and no longer have any dealings with useless offices like the GG. We will make our own decisions - not some lame figure head that has no business making decisions on a countries future and just think of the money we will save but not funding useless parties, housing and trips of the GG.
Viva Alberta, BC and Sask are welcome to join as well.

Mary
said

To Nathan at comment #2 - Nonsense. The four western provinces have felt they have not have a voice for decades. This is not of Harper's making, nor is separatism his intent at all. He's been working for all of Canada as federal Prime Minister, and anyone's separation is not up to him, but is up to the voters and how well they feel their needs are being met and heard. Westerners vote reflects that they believe the Conservatives well manage our money, and from experience many feel that the Liberals cost us money. The results of a legitimate $300 million election are being thrown out in a power grab at a time when we should be showing calm and restraint . Harper stated in the house yesterday that he had received NO input from any of them towards Canada's budget, in spite of requests from the Conservatives for their input. They are hell bent on doing this, and are hanging this on a 1.95 per voter funding cut (amongst other things) the Conservatives were also willing to sacrifice themselves to save money from the top down, which Harper summarily rescinded to stop their whining. Everyone seems so worried about how Quebecers are feeling being called seperatists, and no one seems to care how the west is feeling disenfranchised and unheard. No one out here would want to seperate, but when people see legitimate election results being ignored and parties refusing to contribute to a budget as is their role, it gives many pause to think.

DGL
said

I have no idea how any Liberal or NDP voter could watch that ridiculous cheap and badly produced video, which was late to the media, and think this is the right man to lead the country in an economic crunch. My young children could have done a better job. If he can't even get that right, you believe he's competent enough to steer the Nation and control the financial destiny of Canada?? What a pathetic excuse for a proposed leader of the country.

Reece
said

The longer this thing goes on, the more it will deteriorate for Canada. Mr Harper, as PM's before you, be honourable and leave with some dignity. Do you want to be the PM who was DRAGGED out of office kicking and screaming??

Tom in Edmonton
said

Down with Harper!

Scott in Halifax
said

So, Stephan Dion wants to be Prime Minister(again). Much like his TV interview a couple of months ago with CTV's Steve Murphy, the rebuttle he gave last night was horrific. This man couldn't manage to find his way out of paper bag if both ends were open. How can Canadians even think for a second that this man can run the country until May when he can't cope with a 10-15 minute interview.

Kate
said

Look at how the coaliton handle their televised speech. If they couldn't even get the basic things done right, how are we to have confidence in their handling of our trouble economy.

CTV.ca Special

Coalition FAQ

Changing governments without an election. Can they do this?

Interactive

Who's who in the House of Commons: Find out where your MP sits.

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Harper's address

Watch Stephen Harper's address to the Canadian people and reaction from analysts and pollsters.

Dion's address

Liberal Leader Stephane Dion responds with his economic plan.

Mike Duffy Live - Wednesday, Dec. 3

With Governor General Michaelle Jean back in Canada, there is no shortage of reaction to the coalition.

Question period: Wednesday, Dec. 3

The economy, separatists and old deals between Harper and Duceppe take centre-stage.

MPs weigh in

Watch candid answers from MPs outside the House of Commons when CTV puts them in the hot seat.

Pulse of the nation

A bloodless coup or democratic success? The idea of a coalition has Canadians speaking out.

CTV's Question Period

With the Tories teetering on the edge because of economic policy, Craig Oliver asks Finance Minister Jim Flaherty the tough questions.

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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

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