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Home : Top Stories : Grits and Tories are the new coalition, Layton says

Grits and Tories are the new coalition, Layton says

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CTV News Video

On The Hill: NDP Leader Jack Layton responds
CTV Newsnet: Thomas Mulcair, NDP finance critic, explains why the coalition is done
CTV Newsnet: NDP Leader Jack Layton comments on the Liberal support of the budget
CTV Newsnet: NDP Leader Jack Layton takes questions from the media
Question period: Bloc Quebecois Leader Gilles Duceppe gives his party's response
CTV Newsnet: Graham Richardson on the end of the opposition coalition
CTV Newsnet: Bloc Quebec Leader Gilles Duceppe comments on Liberal support for the budget
CTV Newsnet: Graham Richardson discusses the Bloc's strategy

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CTV.ca News Staff

Date: Wed. Jan. 28 2009 10:04 PM ET

NDP Leader Jack Layton appeared shocked Wednesday when the Liberals came out in support of the Conservatives' budget, effectively ending an unprecedented NDP-Grit coalition forged only two months ago to topple the Tory government.

But for many political commentators, the political shift was anything but a surprise. In recent weeks, many analysts predicted that the coalition, which required the support of the Bloc Quebecois, was finished.

Still, Layton continued to publicly cling to the partnership.

In fact, Layton repeatedly told reporters that he and newly-crowned Liberal Leader Michael Ignatieff were staying in contact and talking about their political partnership.

Even as the Tories began to leak details of the budget's massive spending on infrastructure, public housing and job training, Layton maintained that the coalition would work together to bring down the government no matter what.

But on Wednesday, the deal that could have given Layton a seat at the Cabinet table was officially over, and along with it, one of the more colorful chapters in Canada's usually staid parliamentary history.

"We have a new coalition now on Parliament Hill -- it's a coalition between Mr. Harper and Mr. Ignatieff," Layton said shortly after Ignatieff announced his conditional support for the Tory budget.

In politics, two months can be a lifetime.

Last November, Finance Minister Jim Flaherty released a contentious fiscal update which was slammed by the opposition as being highly partisan and downright nasty for its proposal to eliminate public subsidies for political parties.

At the time, the opposition parties threatened to vote down the Conservatives in a confidence vote that was scheduled for December.

However, Gov. Gen. Michaelle Jean agreed to a request by Prime Minister Stephen Harper to prorogue Parliament until the end of January.

During that period, Ignatieff softened on the idea of a coalition, which he made official on Wednesday.

"Mr. Ignatieff has made his choice, he has decided not to support the coalition and the positive change that it would have brought," Layton said.

"(Instead) he has formed a relationship with Mr. Harper and this could last for a very long time."

Prior to the budget's release, both the NDP and the Bloc Quebecois had already said they wouldn't support the budget.

Bloc Quebecois Gilles Duceppe also addressed the media Wednesday to express his disdain for Ignatieff's decision.

"That's the end of the coalition," said Duceppe.

Ignatieff said Wednesday his party would issue an amendment to the budget requiring the Tories to update Parliament with progress reports.

Duceppe called the amendment "a smokescreen" for Liberals to continue propping up the Tories.

Ignatieff would not officially say the coalition was dead but his Quebec lieutenant, Denis Coderre, bluntly declared it "dead," according to The Canadian Press.

"The Liberals are playing this smart," said CTV's Ottawa Bureau Chief Robert Fife on Wednesday.

Fife said the Liberals will likely keep a low-profile and let the Tories govern through the recession, allowing the Grits to retool and reform after years of infighting.

Ultimately, however, the Grits will make a power grab and will topple the Tories.

"That's their game plan. They've got wind in their sales now, they don't need to NDP and they certainly don't need the Bloc Quebecois," said Fife.


Comments are now closed for this story

Dan from Northern Ont.
said

How quickly they turn on each other... aren't politics wonderful?


Tono
said

That is quite good. This means that the Liberals and the Conservatives will finally recognise each other as the 'big parties'. Maybe this will make more people want to realise the goal of eliminating Canada's four-party system.


Lunt
said

LOL - Jack, you have hit the orange ceiling. Your party is irrelevant.


Jay, Ottawa
said

Sounds good.


RobO
said

Gee, did Jack in the pant Layton really think that he would get a chance in hell to run this country.

Wake up Jake you made a deal with the Devil and it came back to haught you.

Not only have you ruined your self you have also ruined what is left of your party.

So maybe you should hit the EI lineup, I hear you can get an extra 5 weeks now.


jeff
said

This comes from a guy who decided to vote against the budget before the budget was announced?

Jack, shut up. As a Liberal, I'll vote Green before I vote for your party as long as you are running the show for the NDP.


dk
said

Layton knows nothing about leadership or what is right for this country. His mind was made up to not support the budget long before it was presented. He is no better than the separatists of Quebec.


Brian
said

Lunt:
Good one!!!


Richard, Halifax
said

Sour grapes from the man who so desperately wanted a chance to impose his radical leftist ideas upon this great country. At least now, with no scheming and plotting left to do, maybe Mr. Layton can sit down and read the budget.


Glenn
said

who cares, get on with governing , that's what your being paid to do.



Brian
said

Yeah, so because Mr. Ignatieff made a smart decision to keep the country stable during a bad economic time, he's labelled by the separatists and socialists as a sell-out?

Sorry, Mr. Layton. Your road to power ends today.

Mr. Harper's time will end soon, but it won't be because of Jack and Gilles' selfish powerplay!


sable
said

Hey, does that mean the Liberals are getting some cabinet posts? No, just more rhetoric from Layton.


Marcel the Northerner
said

All Canadians can see who has their interest. Some Canadians knew where the BLOCk stood for and now Canadians see where the NDP stand for. The NDP has shown to us that they do not want to be part of the Canadian government (voted against the budget before they even seen it)only their own interest at heart (to rule). The confidence of the people has never been for the Trio but rather the confidence in the NDP or the BLOCk has been revealed in the poles. Layton and Duceppe live with it; Ignatieff has shown that he will choose the day but it will not be directed by the NDP or the BLOCk. Now let us tackle the work that is ahead of us and stop this unhealthy fighting -- unhealthy for Canadians. The NDP or the BLOCk will never represent the true will of Canadians, they are the tick in the hair of any government. NDP has chosen their burial plot.


Martin.NS
said

The more Jack talks now the more of a loser he becomes. I'm glad that the Liberals are planning to back the Conservative budget. We need more action, less debate and partisanship. I'm glad the Liberals are moving in that direction, unlike their other leftist counterparts.

I'm glad that Ignatieff is sending the Liberal party closer to the political centre now. The Liberals may have a chance at winning the next election if they keep it up!


Andrea
said

If the liberals keep propping up the cons, they could end up losing votes from not taking action on the govt.

Personally, I think Iggy is just testing them, that explains why the Cons are on probation.


DB Cooper
said

The way it should be. Canada's two largest parties working together to serve the best interests of the majority of Canadians. Let's just hope that Harper, for once in his political career, can play nice and actually get along with the Liberals.


Andrew
said

Layton is just upset because he sold his party out for a Cabinet seat, but ended up getting nothing. NDP voters should gave have an easier time switching their support to the Liberal party, as the NDP party had such an easy time doing so.

Mr. Layton, you were made a fool of, and you only have your blind/insincere ambition to blame.




Dave - ON
said

Hey Jack . Ever heard of "make haste slowly?" He who tries to stick it to others soon finds himself unglued. FInd a new cause dude ... your 15 minutes of power grab are over.


Dee in Manitoba
said

And forming a relationship between Libs and Cons is a bad thing? I think finally Iggy may be workable with Harper. I am a big Harper supporter. NDP and BLOC will ALWAYS go against the grain and don't they realize that they are only hurting us Canadians. Enough is enough already, let's get some cooperation for the sake of our families.


Lest we Forget
said

Don't think that most Canadians will forget the coalition as quickly.

Be sure the question will be raised during the next election and then these fools will feel the wrath of the electorate.


The Widowmaker
said

Ummmm. Jack. Grow up. Now is not a time for childish games. It's time for the big boys to do what's right. I don't like/trust Harper and his party. But this is not the time to be playing games. You just stay on your bang wagon. Cause that's all YOUR party is good for.


elcross
said

Layton and the Bloc sure change their freindly tone to the Liberals in a big hurry. They realize there is no way in Hell they could form a govt. Now maybe the Liberals realize how they were been used ...


Andrew
said

Hey Jack & Gilles did you ever believe for one moment that the country would allow a seperatist and a socialist run the country? A liberal and a conservative coalition is the best thing canadian voters could ask for we truley now have a coalition that represents about 67% of the national population.


Ry in Hamilton
said

As a Liberal, I think Mike made the best decision by supporting the Government. Overall, I don't think this is a bad budget. Like many pundits have said, it has something in it for everyone and is "temporary measures". The country needs political cooperation, not division right now. This is the best for all of us.


proud conservative
said

WOW , Good for the Liberals. At least they could see that most Canadians did not want a coalition.


Robert N
said

So sad for Jack. I guess he feels a little deflated for not being able to drag the carrot any longer. See ya next election Jack !!


Diane M.
said

Sorry Jack ,for you it was all about sitting on the other side of the house,nothing more.Just take your ball and go home. There are really only 2 credible parties in this country .Maybe the Liberals are more concerned about "propping up" the people than you are.


Ian in Toronto
said

Maybe, maybe it was payback time for Layton siding with the Cons back in 2005 when Layton voted against the Paul Martin government. What goes around, comes around.


Jason in Slave Lake
said

"That's the end of the coalition," said Duceppe.

"Good riddance," says I.

Now lets put the politics aside and everyone get to work.


Pat Canadian
said

And now you can see that the coalition was nothing more than a power grab!
Better to work with the leading party than to try to steel power - then again taking power by any means possible is the true socialist way.


Wes
said

That's awesome, no coalition...that's what I predicted last year...


CMQ
said

The modern day 3 Stooges of "Jack the spin doctor" Layton, Duceppe-"IT'S My Party and I'll Cry Fowl If I want To," and "Mr Invisible" Stephane Dion- "The Day The Coalition Died." Are out of luck to gain power by bullying. Iggy is the right step in the right direction for the LIberals. Iggy is not so desparate to gain power and status as to sell himself or his party out. He is being an opposition leader the way he was elected to by holding the government accountable. That's his job as it is the other parties to do the same. Unlike the NDP and the bloc, Iggy listened to the budget and is willing to make suggestions. The other two never got off the coalition band wagon which would not have lasted because all 3 involved had their own agendas.

I believe we can finally see government actually function until such time as we can have a majority.




Joseph in Toronto
said

I don't agree with some of Mr. Harper's past decisions. However this is clearly better than the NDP being part of a coalition government.


Gary/NB
said

Finally. common sense has prevailed!

Jack & Gill(es) went up the "Hill" to respond to Iggy's defection,
Jack, frustrated and angry, promised revenge in an election,
Gill(es), clearly annoyed, fell back to Quebec protection.

I feel sorry for them but can't reach them, thankfully.

At the official formation of the "Unholy trinity" a few weeks ago, Ed Broadbent emerged from the room singing, "Happy days are here again". Clearly, he was elated to think his fringe party would get a chance to be part of the "real" governing. I would like to know what song he is now singing - it may be he is crying (I hope). I used to respect him until he rejoiced at the formation of the "Unholy trinity". Now, I see he is power hungry just like Jumping Jack, No country Gilles and Pitiful loser Stephane.

Hurray! It looks good on all four of you jokers.


denis
said

It seems the only interest of the NDP ,is to gain more seats by discredeting whomever is in power and force a needless election.God help us all if they were to ever govern.


John from Ontario
said

I would like to know where all the supporters of Layton's coalition are now, right up to Monday we were all NEO CON TROLLS whos day of reconing was coming today. When we told you that Iggy would put what in my opinion is a very minor condition on passing the budget for his parties support most or your hearts must have broke, and if you think that in March, June, September or December Iggy will bring down the government your also dreaming because after this budget passes the GG will not ask Iggy to form a government she will call and election. An Election that the liberals can afford to fight, and election that will cost the liberals there more conservative members although they will gain NDP seats and an election that will give the Cons the majority that they want so much. HATE TO SAY IT BUT THE MORE YOU BRAGGED ABOUT THE COALITION the more WE SAID IT WOULD NEVER HAPPEN... TOLD YOU SO.


Gerald from Belleville
said

Did anyone with a rational mind or even a modicum of intelligence even believe that a coalition could form at this time, or that it could be *GASP* workable?

I'm still looking over the details of the budget right now - the "official" data is much more comprehensive and requires a lot more reading that the short blurbs published by the media.

So far it "looks" pretty good. A bit too left-leaning for my tastes at this point, and I'm not sure how effective it will be in curbing the economic downfall we're experiencing right now....but it's better than anything the Libs, NDP, or Bloc could propose.

As an aside, I'm really happy that sanity and intelligence prevailed. We are facing one of the (if not THE) worst recession ever, and potentially even a depression. This isn't the time to invest in frivolous environmental initiatives like the Green Shaft Plan or the Green Party's unrealistic fantasies. We can go hug some trees AFTER this economic storm blows over.




Gerald from Belleville
said

I'm still looking over the details of the budget right now - the "official" data is much more comprehensive and requires a lot more reading that the short blurbs published by the media.

So far it "looks" pretty good. A bit too left-leaning for my tastes at this point, and I'm not sure how effective it will be in curbing the economic downfall we're experiencing right now....but it's better than anything the Libs, NDP, or Bloc could propose.

As an aside, I'm really happy that sanity and intelligence prevailed. We are facing one of the (if not THE) worst recession ever, and potentially even a depression. This isn't the time to invest in frivolous environmental initiatives like the Green Shaft Plan or the Green Party's unrealistic fantasies. We can go hug some trees AFTER this economic storm blows over.




Chris in Ontariariari-Oh!
said

This is no surprise as most liberal's opposed this alliance Dion forged.But all this indignation is only optic's as the liberal's were looking for a way out anyway and this budget was the opportunity they needed.It was only temporary as the liberal's had just crowned their new leader and with the budget had basically achieved their demand's.They are looking at an increase in popularity and the coalition was not beneficial to their chance's. The number's have shown they have a better chance of gaining vote's from the more centrist vote held by the conservative's than the more left leaning vote held by the N.D.P.Whether or not Ignatieff will be able to keep the leftist's in line will remain to be seen as it wasn't possible for Paul Martin.This dissention was ultimately what led to the erosion of the liberal's credibility to the electorate.As they used to say Chretien campaigned on the left and governed on the right.He would promise everything to everybody and deliver on nothing.We heard promise's on climate change , daycare and the list goes on.So basically the liberal's are repositioning themselve's back to their past in order to re-invent themselve's with a new leader.Just more of the same,just a different package.


Paul, Waterloo ON
said

I think Jack means this to scare us, but this is finally a coalition I can live with which actually represents most Canadians.

This is exactly what we need in these times - cooperation, with the opposition party doing exactly what it is supposed to do: keeping the lead party accountable.

Now all we need are the NDP and the Bloc adding constructive input instead of destructive and the government can get back to doing what it is supposed to do.


Open letter to Jack Layton
said

Dear Mr. Layton,

Your party received +-18% of the popular support in the last election... and less in previous elections.

Your attempt to lunge at power has failed badly because the values and policies you represent are not those of the majority of Canadians who dislike what your party stands. Canadians are not into radical left wing ideologies which have proven globally not to be effective ways of governing.

Now that your election of 2008 Coalition has failed to gain traction I urge you to step down and give someone else in the NDP an opportunity to lead the NDP as your tenure appears to be over.

Sincerely,

Michael in Ottawa



Craig, Kelowna BC
said

So the "New Libs on the Bloc" coalition is dead eh? Right on. Jacko sounds like a defeated schoolboy who just wants to take his ball and go home. The Dippers will hopefully go the way of the Dodo bird.


Give me a break
said

I used to be an NDP supporter; but lately not only have I lost any respect for Layton, I'm beginning to despise the man.

It's apparent he wants what's good for "jack" and not Canada. If he did; he would be willing to work with the Cons and their minority gov't.

Now, I'm not a Con supporter either. Call me liberal; especially with Ignatieff at the wheel. He has the personality, intelligence and capability to get the Liberal party where it needs to be in order one day to topple the Cons.

In the interim; I think that many Canadians just want this budget and the current gov't to work. We can't afford another election or other unstable "games" right now.

So Jack please go far away and let us do what's best for Canada!!!


GO Layton GO, home that is!
said

Layton would have all advantage to stop talking.

Within a couple months he has lost any credibility and who would ever vote for him now.

He showed us he joined anyone who could help him get into a ministry position no matter what they stand for, what his voters think or what is best for the country.

He is a very selfish politician that will never regain the population trust.

His integrity in simply not what is expected of a Prime Minister! Shameful to see him sink that low!



Andrew
said

Jack you were set up by the Liberals they used your lust for power to destroy your party. Great job Jack!


Johnny
said

The Jack Layton nickname list continues to grow!

Citizen Jack
Gentleman Jack
Vladimir Jack
Taliban Jack
Chairman Jack
Jack-O-Lenin
Genius Jack
Now Separatist Jack!

Think you need to step down soon before your baggage is as big as Bob Rae's...


Rural Route Farmer
said

Sounds to me as if Jack Layton is feeling a little bit rejected after Mr. Ignatieff supported the Cons.

I would rather see Ignatieff and Harper working together, then the coalition of the idiots that was formed before Christmas, that would of spelled certain doom for our nation.

I hope that Mr. Layton (who has now been put in his place) stops trying think he the PM in waiting and relegate himself and his party to work at something more constructive for our country, not destructive.`


Alex (Toronto)
said

Layton may want to crank the rhetoric down a notch. There is a reasonable chance of a Liberal minority government later this year. This moment may have passed, but Harper will go back to his old unilateralist ways if he thinks that Layton won't work with the Liberals. It might not be wise for Layton to close the door on a future coalition.


JB - Ottawa
said

I swear they're as bad as kids. At least kids have an excuse... they're kids.


jd in Regina
said

Actually the request is a reasonable one. Mr. Layton and Mr. Duceppe don't like it because Mr. Ignatieff came up with something that makes sense (and took the wind out of their hopeful sails at the same time). Of course the coalition is dead ... a new solution to holding the government responsible may have surfaced and dang it if it didn't include the NDP.


RCR from Ontario
said

Well Jack the wannabe, but will never make it,PM never ceases to amaze me with his comments.
I ask anyone from the NDP if their Leader ever takes time out from his quest for power to read some of the blogs re garding his idea of a Coalition. Not very many agree that his idea was a good one.. Now he has turned on the Liberals because they didn't play ball with him. Time for Jack to go back to Municipal politics where he can whine all he wants and noboby will care.


Dom
said

if Tono wants to eliminate our 4 party system he should move to the USA where it is more to his liking.


Brian
said

I've always been a cons voter..but I respect the additions the liberals want to make to the budget with out causing more debt. I personal thing the Cons and Liberals are the only two parties with smarts. I respect the fact the new liberal leader is working with the cons to make the budget better. This is how minority government is suppose to work. Cooler heads have come through and we have a budget to look foreword to.


Mike AB
said

Gee Jack can you not ever answer a question when asked? You were asked if the deal of the 3 stooges would stand and you could not even say YES or NO.
You are a true politician your lips move but nothing worth while listening to. Looks like you just got benched in this game.


Jerry G Hart
said

Seems to me that Mr Jack Layton is wiping away tears as this is and most likly will be the only chance that they have had at getting involved with our government ever in their history. In the sense of being part of the ruling party(s) of Canada.
I am so glad that Iggy has supported our PM, and stopped all this non sense. Don't get me wrong I am a Cons and not a Liberal, but their leader at least will help see what the people of Canada wanted and that is the Cons are in control and they make up the budget, not any other party.Liberals are at least trying to work with the Gov now, NDP and Bloc are not.
Jack go back to being a wanna be. Your party will never govern Canada. Mr Layton and seperatisit Duciepe vowed to not vote on this budget even before being presented. That tells me that they are looking at them selfs and or their parties, and not the budget before speaking.In other words they want what they want, not what the people of Canada wants, needs, and got. Not good for leaders of our great nation.Iggy my very first praise for you party, ever in my life.


Sold to the highest bidder! Shameful!
said

Well,

Who care what Layton say anymore? He simply cannot be trusted in the name of greed!

He could seel his mother for a position in the next government. He looked worst then Ducepppe in this because we expected better from him.

Go home if you can, you won't have many friends around anymore.


Sunny
said

Really, in a minority government isn't it how it should be? Fact is that the overwhelming majority of people voted for Conservatives and Liberals - they should work together and try to satisfy those that voted for them and not to Jack's little clique. His arrogance knows no bounds.


LDB
said

Jack Layton is nothing more than a self serving ,self centered,distructive little oportunist.This little creep and his separtist buddy should be kicked out of parliament.They are both traitors to the country and only serve their own agenda.Fortunately,the Liberals seem to finally be seeing the error of their ways.


Oil Country
said

just goes to show how much respect these 2 clowns have, how long was this a latest news headline? 2 minutes? and by the responses, including mine, 6?, nobody cares!!!!


So Sad...
said

What a little cry baby Layton is. If, by some miracle, he became PM I’m sure his first order of business would be to bring down his own gov’t!

By announcing he was going to vote down the budget before he’d even heard it, it showed his ignorance & his arrogance. I hope everyone who voted NDP in the last election has been watching carefully what their ‘leader’ has been doing since for Canada.


kate
said

No surprise Mr Layton is bitter, no doubt he promised his union buddies they could keep making 80k a year and produce nothing until they qualified for their nice pensions. And Quebec now doesn't get more than their share so it's all good.

A lot of people are suffering that make half or less than half the 76-80k union people that he represents. Not sure how Layton classifies them as poor, but I guess when you come from Outremont - anything under 100k is welfare.


Edb
said

Go back to Toronto Jack, I'm sure mayor Miller has surplus gangsters that need a good hug.
Leave serious issues to the grown ups !


Mark
said

Oh Jack, what righteous indignation. Your leftist halo is slipping.


Mike
said

Get over it JACK!


Dean
said

How can Jack be that stupid to think anyone would want to be aligned with a left wing socialist thinker like him at a time like this? Forget it Jack. Now you know what the other parties really think of you. How embarrassing for you. Socialism doesn't work. You can't just go around giving away everything. Someone has to pay for it eventually.


A real turncoat!
said

This guy has not idea of what he has accomplish in a very few weeks.

He lost the trust of all canadian and he destroyed his party completly.

Amasing what you can do for a promesse of a cushy job!

How can you look at yourself in the mirror each morning and beleave you are for real!

Enjoy your last couple years, you will soon find out what the rest of us have to face to find a good job!


M M B Ont
said

Sounds like Jacky-boy is a little ticked off that he didn't get his way and get Harper out and a Coalition In. I can just see the fighting that would be going on within a Coalition as to who would be the PM etc. You boys cannot get along seperately, how the hell would you 3 stooges ever agree on anything together within a Coalition. Canada is on the right path now with two Parties.. the Conservatives and Liberals. In Ontario the NDP vote against the gov't trying to end a strike to get the students back into classes at York University in Toronto. THis says we don't need ANY NDP party in Canada or Ontario because they are not FOR the people.


Marion Moraga
said

Unfortunately I have to agree with Mr. Leyton.
I am a Liberal, have been all my life, but Michel Ignatieff got in bed with the Conservatives.
Forget the stupid Budget, nobody cares if we have enough food on the table to feed our kids, or if next month some of us will loose our homes, all they cared about is keeping their positions, one as Prime Minister, the other as Leader of the Liberal Party.
I do not know if the so called budget is helping the common Canadian, certainly is not helping me.
WAKE UP CANADA!!!!!


GM
said

Just like a good union man, turn on any and all who express a different opinion then what you have.


BM in CGY
said

Jack, you still haven't figured out what Bob Rae already did.....The NDP is irrelavent so I better switch parties to have a chance at power!!! Stick a fork in the NDP and Bob "listen to me" Layton - they are both done! You actually are helping Iggy with your ineptitude as there will be less vote-splitting next election! Iggy will need it of course as he will have nothing but an empty war chest and no policy suggestions to run on again!


Joe, Calgary
said

Ahhhh!!! Poor Jack. He's acting like a child. "Wah... the Liberals won't play with me anymore."

Good call, Iggy. The Conservatives made concessions and this budget should work for the most part for our country. Keep them accountable.




Right Jack or Highjack?
said

Well might as well join that new coalition, I'm sure you then explain to us why this is best for all of us Canadian.

When you start getting away from the truth, you won't even know what real and what's not.

You could then explain to us, it was all your strategy in the best interest of your country and the canadian voters!

Anything for a good job, a title or more money! Right Jack!


Alex of Calgary
said

If you want higher taxes with better social programs yet have a failing economic structure. HIRE an NDP to run the nation!


greatzoltan28
said

Let the Games Begin

And the loser is Good-bye Jack--you jut don't get it do you--nobody wants you--losers truly finish last and that is where you are.


Nostradamn
said

It's over Jack, go home and get out of the closet as well. Ignatieff will in a few years be our new Prime Minister with a Liberal majority. He is doing what is right for the country at this time. You should do what is right for your party and leave.


Don
said

BYE,BYE Jack,

Poor Jack, his 15 seconds of fame came crashing to an end dashing his hopes of stealing power. Maybe you should just concede your a failure and give up.


Russ in Halifax
said

It's hard to understand why Jack and Gilles are so upset. This is how democracy works. A very clear majority of voters in the last election are now represented by this "new coalition". This budget is supported by MP's representing about 60% of the people who actually voted last time around. Isn't that what Canadians expect? The will of the majority being implemented.


Wende from Calgary
said

As usual Taliban Jack does not know what he is talking about. A coalition government would have both Tories and Liberies hold cabinet posts that is not going to happen. I image poor old Jack saw those senate seats go and Elizabeth May must have been really twisted that she did not get one. It was really scary for a while there that the NDP and the Block might have had a hand in running our country. All's well that ends well - for the time being!


Richard
said

Just another day on parliament hill.


Laz in Finance
said

JACK WHO? Gilles who?

Iggy didn't like either of you anyway; why not call Dion and arrange another basement youtube video and call it Jack and Gille, went up the hill to fetch Steph Dion?

Sadly, instead, we are now 80 billion in the hole for all your troubles, thank you and inflation.... Here we come.

I think I am going to do some home renovations.


Happy in Niagara
said

Everyone say bye to Jack or that Jack*** as he is refered to in my house. His party and him are finished! The Liberals and the Conservatives working together makes so much sense. Good news all around.


Pat
said

Jack & Gilles

Now here's a couple of real winners! NOT!



schpid
said

This coming from the same guy who says we shoud "negotiate" with the Taleban. Hard to negotiate with someone who says no and won't wait to hear proposals. Layton's hatred for Stephen Harper is actually quite scary. Seems to be more personal than political issues within the NDP. Hope those who wasted their votes on you are happy that you won't even think of discusiions or concessions. In politics it is always about give and take.


Sherri
said

Well at least they haven't formed a coalition with a party that wants to seperate from Canada Mr. Layton. You're grasping at strings now. Face it, you're finished.


bigdog
said

know Harper can tell the liberals to stick it and move on ..... why cave know that the coalition is done ... lol


Don
said

Jack its time for you to go back to Toronto City council. Then you can ride your bike to work and think about the time you were almost more than a foot note in Canadian history.


Bob in Winnipeg
said

Jack and Gille went up to the to force the Tories from power but Iggy was there and decided to play fair and now only Jack and his NDP will lose the power.
Jack likes to point out that this is the 45th time that the Liberals have betrayed the NDP and Bloc by siding with the the Conservatives. I see it as the Bloc and NDP have tried 45 times to over throw the government and have not suceeded.
MAYBE IT'S TIME FOR JACK TO GO?


Adam in Bowmanville
said

I quite strongly agree with Tono. This is a great step in the right direction with Layton now stepping out of the picture. I believe Ignatief is a great opposition leader to Mr. Harper. A good check and balance system.
NDP, Bloc Quebecois & Jack Layton - you are the weakest links - good bye.



SK Prairie Boy
said

Typical of the New Speak coming out of this gentleman's mouth...guess he's lumped with the BQ now...have fun Jack!!


Mike in Ottawa
said

As long as they can work together in the short term to get things going, great.

Good to see Jack Layton put all his eggs in one basket, only to get them scrambled. The NDP, by being so stupidly rigid on voting against a budget they hadn't even seen, has moved them into irrelevancy with the Canadian public.


4 parties is better than 2 parties..
said

Tono - speak for yourself. Canadian politics benefits from all 4 of the major political parties depending on the circumstances.

Ask Stephen Harper - he'll tell you he was extremely glad the NDP and the Bloc were around a few years ago.


Colleen
said

Atta boy, Jack...go down swinging! I hope I NEVER live in a country where you are in charge!


Scrumhalf, Ottawa
said

Hahaha Jack... sounds like a case of sour grapes. The big boys just can't be bothered with you. You and your party are useless. Now can we get back to governing our country?


ByeByeSocialism
said

Poor Jack, he sees that his party is headed the same direction as the North American auto industry: into the sewer.


Dan
said

Jack Jack Jack....

Let me tell you a story... It's about a politician that thought he could climb the hill...

I think I can, I think I can, I think I can, he yelled. But when he got to the top step he fell down and broke his crown... It seems like a sad story, but really it is a lesson. Can you see the leason Jack?


Max
said

Mr. Ignatieff did what was best for the country. He's a class act - the best of the bunch. Layton sounds like a fool.


Rob
said

It will be interesting to see how long this lasts. As soon as the polls put the Liberals ahead of the Conservatives they will bring down the government.


Dave
said

The politics in Quebec never ceases to amaze me. Why is the Bloc even allowed in Federal parliment? They act only in the intrests of Quebec, why should they dictate what happens in the rest of Canada when all they care about is their own province. Mr. Duceppe, resign your party to the provincial level and stop trying to play with the big kids.


Joe K.
said

There are only two parties Jack that attempt to help Canada. You don't! Now go away little boy.


LC
said

Stop whinning Jack - you're never satisfied - nothing would ever please you. Let's face it Jack the NDP are a washed-out party. I agree with RobO - time for Jack to get in the EI line.


Kim in the west
said

Listen to the little Conservative children on here...and the Cons advertise on TV anti bullying campaigns...the pot is calling the kettle black here. Just make sure you remember that you supported this 85 billion deficit and let's not hear you complain later that your kids are stuck paying this back.


JZ
said

Jack, communism died a while ago.
Iggy is smart to get out of the coalition!


Dan from Northern Ont.
said

I think the problem with Parliament was Dion. Now that Dion is gone, and the Liberals have a less socialist leader, they'll be able to find some common ground with the Conservatives.

I also feel bad for the legitimately open minded NDP MPs that at least wanted to look at the budget before giving it a thumbs down.

Now all that's left is for the Liberals to move further from attacks and further towards constructiveness, and they'll be able to have a much better showing in the next election.


Dan
said

Jack & Gilles went up the hill to fetch a pail of power. Jack fell down and broke his crown and Gilles came running after him...

But... Gilles did not help Jack, Gilles just stole Jack's bucket.


derek
said

Another opportunity for Layton to show how irrelevent his party is to Canadian politics. He would have been way smarter to support this budget that actually has some benefit to those on the left. Now he looks like a little whiny toddler alone in the corner.


White North
said

Have the Liberal Party lose it Mojo?

Can the Liberal Party stand to the Harper government or is the Liberal party of Canada looking to form one Party with the Harper Conservatives under his Leadership?

It seems is not different then when Dion was supporting the Conservatives at every wimp even if it was not good for all Canadians.

Actions speak lauder than empty words and it seems that we are following the same steps as before.

No change



Peter Hunziker
said

Some people got to be told that Parliament is to work for the benefit of Canadians and taxpayers and not for the polititians alone.


D in Abbotsford
said

Jack Layton reminds me of a little school kid. When he can't have his way, he starts whining right away ... and he doesn't think logically through a situation. He makes up his mind without any information or thought.- i.e. denouncing the budget before it came out.
Perhaps if he started taking the entire country seriously, rather than just his own special interest groups (unions, etc.) people might begin to listen to him a little. As it is now, we'd rather see him muzzled until he can say something intelligent.


JimK
said

Jack, it's time to go. You and your party have outlived your purpose. In reality, you are a Party of Protesters.


Hannah
said

Ignatieff made the right choice. He needs to distance himself from Layton's and Dion's power grab attempts. Canadians did not want a coalition, and there is no guarantee that the GG would have granted it. She might have sent us back to the polls instead, and Canadians don't need another election right now, we need the government working. The Tories made it so we had no government the past 2 months. Layton would have liked to make another Parliamentary crisis. Ignatieff and the Liberals are the only ones who are showing they have the interest of Canadians in mind and are not playing politics while we lose our jobs.


Steve T
said

Awwww...boo hoo hoo, cries Jack Layton. He has seen his only shot at power evaporate. And let's not kid ourselves - the only reason he cared about the coalition is because of the power it would have brought the NDP. He doesn't care any more about Canada or Canadians than any other party leader. All of his complaining right now is just window dressing.



Acroyear
said

Awwww whats a matter Jack?

Now that Dion (closet NDP if not out right Socialist) isn't leading (okay, isn't the head, he never led in the first place) is your dream of getting into power without having to win a general election all gone.

Poor baby.

And thank all the lost gods.




Bill , Saskatoon
said

That is excellent news -- Layton is clueless about what the country needs and the other guy is a separtist


Fred - Brandon MB
said

Jack is just bitter that he won't be in the cabinet now.

I'd like to see just how long an NDP/Liberal/BQ coalition could last. 5 minutes? or 10?


Greg from Alberta
said

Jack, were you picked last again in bloodsports?

Politics is a rough game I guess.

I'd consider a career change - I think you'd make an excellent used policy salesman...


john from the west
said

To Jack(boy without brain) Layton why don't you crawl back under the rock you slithered out from underneath. If your father was a politician he couldn't have taught you much either that or you aren't a good listener or are just plain STUPID. I hope the ndp gets wiped out in the next election along with the bloc frogs


Aaron from Toronto
said

What exactly is Jack still doing as Boss of NDP? He is so out of touch with Canadians values and their needs he would actually think that we would accept him and Gilles from the Bloc as a legitimate coalition Government? How ignorant is this guy? I'm not a Lib or a Con, just a simple Canadian Citizen that wants action and results from good government.
So far we don't know " IGGY" from a whole in the wall, and then we have the other two circus clowns available to choose from. As most canadians agree Mr. Harper seems to be most fit to lead this country out of this World Economic Crisis.
As for the New Leader of the Liberals please remember that we are only on our first date; dont know you, don't know your ideals and values, need time to assess caracter. Maybe by 3rd or 4th date ( election ) we'll be more comfortable to vote for you. ( First Kiss)


Doug BC
said

Taliban Jack and seperatist Duceppe are out.Nad that's good news for Canada.
Oddly enough,Jack might be right about the Liberal Conservative coalition.
What he fails to see is that a lot of Canadians would actually support a coalition like that.They have a lot in common,so the compromises they did manage would likely see them come into line with everyone except the hard core social engineers and the special interest groups that want a ton of someone else's money for their phoney conversion to outright socialism.
Hey Jack!! Don't forget to take your spineless and whipped caucus with you,and don't let the door hit you in the a** on your way out.
I am no longer a Liberal because of the socialists in that party.But I have to give credit to both "Iggy" and McCallum.As much as it hurts to do so,they,at least read the budget,made their differences known,and left the "spin" at home.
I think the race is on between Harper,who needs to move a bit left,and the Liberals,who need to move quite a bit to the right.
Whoever finds the political centre before the next election,is the likely party to govern.
Canada needs BOTH of these parties healthy.The NDP is little more than background static.Jack just tried to gain more power than Canadians were willing to give his party in any election.And the Liberals used that to their advantage.
Voters are clearly half way between the right wing Conservatives,and the left wing Liberals.They are not,nor have they ever been as left wing as the NDP,or some of the Liberal party socialists. I call then NDP Lite.


Day of the Jackle
said

Jack, don't be a sore looser. We cannot take you seriously anymore? I'm afraid he has lost all credibility and it is time for Jack to step aside. The NPD needs a leader that puts the country before himself...




Don from Ottawa
said

Ha ha ha! Too much!

But seriously Jack... they're not in a coalition. They're just ignoring you.


Andrew from Mississauga
said

So poor Jack Layton is crying that Iggy will not be part of his ilk of Ottawa coalition. When will this selfish little man stop throwing temper tantrums every time he does not get his way. Canadians must see that Jack ONLY cares for POWER and NOT for you or I. Jack, go back to the sandbox you played in when you were a kid. I bet the toys you horded there are still buried along with your third-place party and coalition. Good riddance!!! I am sure Duceppe's sandbox is not far away.


MDH from DC
said

This accountability clause that Michael want, I thought that we already have an accountability officer, or some such thing, that let out an embasrrasing report just before the election, and has had a couple of statements in the news since. Is that not good enough. Oh well, accountability is good, for and from all of us. To me it simply means fiscal responsibility, which I'm sure the Liberal party could use a little more of itself. I would caution Michael that this prudent move on the surface, may well prove to be a the point of probe in the years ahead. Stephen has certainly learned this lesson.


Terri
said

Layton is a waste of time waste of TV time waste of time in politics all he ever does is argue... now why would we want him to run our country ... .... I know i wouldnt I want and voted in Harper and why should my vote not count .....


Hilary
said

Sucks to be you "Sneaky Jack". Good for the rest of Canada.


allan
said

What Jac k says does not matter, he is irrelevant. He is immature person, focused on hate for Mr. Harper. People may not like each other but Layton is not man enough to put aside his hatred and work for Canadians. He forgets it is US who PAY HIS SALARY. If his party is to be taken seriously, they need a mature, practical leader, not a hate-monger, self-centered moron.


Melissa
said

Lol @ Jack.
I can't believe the NDPs gather any votes. He seriously has the mentality of a five year old playing with blocks.


john from the west
said

This just in Jack Layton & Gilles Duceppe blame closure of Loblaws in Toronto on Stephen Harper, say he planted a bunch of neo-con mice in the store overnight and they overran it. Jack I wonder if your wife realizes what a loser she married. She can't be that blind


Anthony
said

Sore loser Jack :-)
Well, the one good thing about it is that finally we may not see him so often on TV and listen to his crap !


rick Armstrong
said

Wonderful picture of Jack shaking hands with a Seperatist. He will never live it down. The coalition he foolishly thought possible is "dead". So is his dream of Grandeur and with it the end of the NDP.


Al in Alberta
said

If the convservatives and the liberals can ever stop worrying over who can pee a bigger stream, and open their eyes to the fact that of all the parties, they have the most common ideologies and closest political platforms, then they would realize that they can form an effective governing coalition together. Voters in Quebec would soon realize that the Bloc has lost any effective power they may once have held, and relegate them to the scrap heap of political history, where they belong.


Robert White
said

A Conservative-Liberal coalition is a much better representation of the last election result than a Liberal-NDP one would be, and is better alligned to mainstream Canadian interests.


Mike
said

As a liberal living in Quebec, I am personally hurt by a lot of the comments posted on the ctv blogs. Although I am anglophone, I accept and cherish the fact that Quebec's first language is French. I have worked hard to improve my French, and create a bond of trust among my fellow francophone Canadians.

We need to stop pitting our country against each other. To everyone in Canada; respect the fact that Quebec is as different as B.C., Alberta, P.E.I., Ontario.. not one province has 100% of the same views as the other. If Canada (known globally as a multi-cultural nation) can learn to accept each other, maybe our politics wouldn't be so bad.

As a liberal who is in school and working, I am for this budget, Ignatieff's request are very modest, and we need a strong government during this hard time. Layton should not have agreed to turn down the budget prior to seeing what it entailed.

Hopefully this little message will make some people think twice about referring to Quebecers as the separatists.

As a final note, I agree that Layton dislpayed his true colours by turning quickly against his Liberal counterpart. At the same time, I'm happy he did so, because this was a glimpse of what could have been with a coalition.


genny
said

Yes,Yes,Yes Mr.Ignatieff you made the right decision.What we need right now is stability in our government and in our country. Mr.Layton needs to step down he is nothing but a fence sitter certinally not a leader I would ever vote for. And the Bloc should have no say whatsoever on anything..get rid of them.


Paul in Winnipeg
said

I do not know if I am happy with the budget, but I definately know I never want the NDP to lead Canada. I don't think anyone in the country would enjoy a Happy Jack government. The country would end up like Ontario a few years ago, broke and ruined.


John in Calgary
said

I have never really thought of Gilles Duceppe as being a stupid man. On the contrary, his move to prop up this so called coalition was one of the brightest schemes i have seen. That would have almost ensured Quebec separation. All Canada needs is Jack Layton at the cabinet table. The thought is far beyond laughable.

The only thing worse would be Elizabeth May on the Energy Board.

I thought the "Three Stooges" were supposed to be funny!!!




Paul J Graham
said

Mr. Harper has shown time and again his contempt for democracy and for Canada. He broke his own election date law; he used an "economic update" to try to cripple the opposition parties and unions; he used his time over Christmas to plan how he would swamp the Senate with his supporters. Now he is putting Canada into the depths of debt and deficit. This is neither "right" nor "honourable"..and unworthy of those conservatives who support democracy.

Jack Layton is anything but "power hungry" or "radical left"; he may never be part of a coalition government, but the NDP will never quit when such unruly management of peoples' futures is so cruelly directed by those who dare suggest they act in our interests.

To all the conservatives out there...is major debt and spending what you voted for?


Brett (Sudbury)
said

I think having the Conservatives and Liberals working together will be good for us. In this political climate, it's clear that nobody has an overwhelming amount of support from voters. So, instead of fighting over power, they're compromising to get things done. It's not the Liberals' job to oppose for the sake of opposing, and they knew that there is no way they can responsibly take down the government over this.

While my attitude to Harper is still cool, this gives me a glimmer of hope that he might finally be putting hardcore partisanship aside, at least for the time being. As for Ignatieff, the other parties must have known that there was a chance he would abandon the coalition. He is much less opportunistic and much more pragmatic than Dion, which makes me believe he may be the one to rebuild and revitalize the Liberals. He can take the party back to the centre, which will restore its relevance. Until then, he should stick with working with the Conservatives to provide the best possible government, given our economic circumstances.


Mel in BC
said

What a bunch of babies in Ottawa...worse than little kids in a sandbox....grow up Layton....Harper has a new buddy for a while....as for Quebec, not a team player anyway so not invited into the sandbox, he does not play nice, always to greedy...


R. Bell Burlington Ont.
said

If Jack Layton is the best the NDP party has to offer then I don't see them lasting too much longer. Mr. Duceppe has not changed his stance on everything for Quebec. Mr. Ignatieff freed himself from a terrible alliance that Dion had made and is now waiting until he is better known to Candians, then he will challenge Harper. Mr. Harper should not have buckled under and made his budget his way. If you are elected to office then run the country and if
the 3 Amigos want to vote it down then lets have an election and vote in a conservative majority and put an end to all this nonsense. I voted conservative because of their policy and their leader.The Liberals and NDP are the sameold sameold and niether party has leader that I can respect.


Sean Calder
said

Jack, as you have promised to oppose this government in every possible way from this day forward, I trust you’ll understand if nobody seeks your opinion, support or input on anything from now until the next election.

Enjoy your success in throwing the NDP into obscurity on The Hill.


Moosekiller from Alberta
said

Jack and Gilles went up to Parliament Hill to rob the Cdn taxpayers
Gilles fumbled around while Jack fell down

Go back to your welfare state you 2



Hell_N
said

These politics are claiming that they are working/caring about the people of Canada, but to refuse the budget just because of the luck of the trust to the present PM or the luck of some particular favours for Quebec in the time of the crisis, when normal people don’t even know where to get money to pay for their food, what is that? By refusing the budget they just follow their own particular political interests and everybody understands it.


Jon in Burl.
said

Mr Layton power grab is over. He wanted to be king maker instead he is just a whining court jester


Pat London ON.
said

Jack just doesn't get it, "the times they are a changing". What he and his party stood for doesn't cut it today


DWR
said

Mr Layton should guess by now that he will never have any chance of running the country nor should he. This guy only wants the power no matter what. He obviously has no concern about the country he wants to bring the government down no matter what the cost. Now as far as the Bloc Quebecois they should not even be a Federal party they do not have any candidates in the rest of the country so where is the national representation. They want to be a separate country but I am sure they will still gladly take the pension.



Doug
said

I think a Harper-Ignatieff coalition sounds a lot more rational then a Dion, Layton, Duceppe and May coalition even saying those four names in a row sends a shiver down my spine.


Jason
said

Thank you Mr. Ignatieff for postponing your rise to Prime Minister. As a Conservative voter, I am reassured to know there is a reasonable alternative.


Les in BC
said

Jeez, watching Canadian politics is like watching a comedy show on TV. **LOL**

These boozos are in this for their own personal power gain and nothing more.

Ignatief, an "appointed" local boy for the Liberals has granted himself enough power to put the Canadian government on probation.

Layton has had his heart broke again because he thought he would finally get his fingers on some federal power. Whoops.

Duceppe has been duped again by the Liberals and the NDP because his chance to shine in his new country of Quebec has been shoved up his rear again.

Danny Williams in NFLD wanted his cake, icing and egg beaters handed to him on a silver platter but the cake mix turned out to be a can of sauerkraut served up by Ignatief.

So what will be the next chapter in this black comedy? Elizabeth May appointing herself to be the next Governor General?


Rhymer
said

Jack and Gilles went up the hill...
to fetch a chance at power.

Jack fell down, and broke his crown....

and Gilles came tumbling after

Up got Jack, and home did trot As fast as he could caper
He went to bed and bound his head dreaming of future power. :-)



Henry Wysmulek
said

I wonder if layton can still return his crown for a refund?




David in Whitby
said

Jack,your close-minded and unrepresentative stance on the Budget is evidence enough that Ignatief made the right decision. This preening little megalomaniac would have us believe that a handful of leftist idealogues backed by a party made up of anti-Canadian fifth columnists is more representative of what "Canadians" want than the nation's two largest parties. He no more represents us than he does those famous "ordinary working people".


Jim Saskatoon
said

Wanted a new leader for the NDP. Must be able to act like a grown up person, put the good of his country ahead of his party objectives, and accept defeat gracefully.

Guess what Mr. Layton, the Canadian voter came out ahead this time because common sense over rode party gain.

Now would you please help the Canadian economy by supporting the budget during tomorrow's vote. Lets show the world that we are united behind the governing party on this one.


KB
said

Goodbye Layton!! Maybe now Canadians will realize that a 2 party system works and get rid of the rest of the hanger-oners!


Smitherenzes
said

So Duceppe says the coalition is dead as well. How would he know. I thought he wasn't in the coalition.

The penny drops. Looks like Gilles had more say in it than was reported. Looks like it was exactly what Canadians thought. Gilles would hold the trump card to get whatever it was he wanted, which ultimately would be the demise of Canada.

Jack and Stephane were just pawns in the separatist hands.







Ross Wilkie
said

Jack check with Pink Floyd fomer NDP Minister of Finance in Ontario. He thinks Harper and his team did a good job yesterday. Don't be bitter that you cannot be a Cabinet minister with your friends in the Bloc.


PEI Fella
said

You don't always have to go against the grain Jack. You're WAY too naggy.


Tim from Calgary
said

Quit your cryin' and get on with your work, Layton. Your grab for a shred of power didn't work. I've never seen a politician whine as much as Layton does about anything and everything. But of course, his ability to foresee into the future and vote down budgets before they are even announced is quite the skill.


rick rude
said

Three cheers for Ignatief. He did the right thing.


gerry
said

You can sugar coat it anyway you like but Ignatieff had no choice but to support the budget after his "partners" had already stated they would not,...without even seeing it. He had to dis-associate himself from them, especially after Duceppe emerged from his "whine" & "jeez" fest with the PQ declaring it was a great time to pursue separation.
Ignatieff had to ask for something in return to save face. Updates should be offered without demanding so. He might as well have asked for ice cream once a week for what it was worth.
The biggest loser is Layton for siding with the Bloc.
Ignatieff read what the majority said about a coalition. Voters have long memories.
The biggest positive is that Harper will be a better leader in 2009.


Pete Fisher
said

The coalition gave Jack and Gilles the only real hope of ever attaining some semblance of power; no election would ever give it to them. And when they agreed to oppose the budget before it was even presented, they showed what they really are: obstructionist lackeys who haven't a hope of ever doing anything positive, so they are content to be recorded in our history books as minor footnotes. Shame on us for paying their way now and in the future.
Mr Ignatieff has the wisdom to play the political game in a constructive manner.


Todd Pearson
said

Yeah...1 - 0 Harper. Better odds of this working than the leafs winning the Cup thats for certain. Nice job Mr. Prime Minister. You have my support again for the next election. Great decision Mr. Ignatieff.


Jason
said

NDP puts off students returning to York and now they want to put off stimulus for the recession? Ok, coalition was a good idea, Dion leading the country = bad. Never was going to happen, so quit dreaming, Layton.


Chris Ont
said

Just remember what comes around goes around. NDP & Bloc got theirs, it would appear they will become footnotes in history, the NDP will never find themselves in a position of power, Smiling Jack assured that. Next election he would not be able to say he would not try again, so either the Conservatives or Liberals will form a goverment. If the Liberals get a minority, the Conservatives will demand the same clauses for their support. Might have to keep their promises, then in the future we will know what works, and what was wasted money. With Smiling Jack most would have been wasted on cronies that pout when they don't get what they want also. Both fringe parties misread the will of the people, both now just side shows, that nobody listens to anymore.
The footnote, Answer Jack Layton. The question, Who was the leader of the NDP, when they lost party status never to be seen again?


Pip
said

To use Mr Layton's own words, it would seem that "most Canadians" like the idea of this budget. I never did understand his forever referring to "most Canadians" as if they had voted NDP. Wake up, Jack! "Most Canadians" voted either Conservative or Liberal in the last TWO general elections!

As for the Liberals supporting the budget, it makes perfect sense: they need time to rebuild, hold a proper leadership convention, and most importantly, raise funds so they could actually run an effective campaign.


Bob of Victoria Harbour Ontario
said

It comes as no surprise to anyone but Jack Layton that the coalition is dead.Let's get on with what is good for Canada in these hard times,and forget about dreams of the NDP ever governing this great country.


Pro Coalition Amy
said

Maybe if Harper actually came through with some promises he would have more support across Canada and not just in the west. I know he keeps screwing over Newfoundland on a regular basis.

I think my 5 year old neice would do a better job of running the country!





Al in Calgary
said

So now we know who really set up this coalition idea in the first place.

Any idea hatched by the NDP is a bad idea, and Dion should have known better.

The Bloc will agree to anything that can be used to blackmail the rest of us


Chris in Kingston
said

Sounds like sour grapes. Sorry Layton, your only chance to get near anything in the government has just dissolved.


CM
said

No sounds in all this from Alice (in wonderland) May and her hopes for a senate seat. Let us be grateful for small mercies.


Sylvia
said

Bloc and NDP, do you think us the voters are stupid? Get to work and review that Tory budget then have your say....bluntly rejected it, even a baby can do it! Your deeds only show us that you are power hungry morons instead of helping the government do its job. At least Iggy has some common sense


There's a coalition, but the partners switched.
said

Harper is good at taking orders. So now he takes them from Ignatieff.




Dennis
said

All this was an attempt to get some power without being elected. Jack and Gilles (Jill) and not going up the hill. The country voted for an increased Conservative Presence and all parties to work together. The Conservatives started on the wrong foot. However, there is a lot more in common with the Liberals that the other two. So, I have no problem with a Conservative/Liberal coalition.


Cassidy Kanata
said

The best we have at present is Prime Minister S.Harper,and I voted for him and I would again. He was elected and he will succeed. Anything he does will be better than anything imaginable by the other two. G Duceppe isn't considered obviously. When you consider that shortly after the Prime Minister was give a special mandate to produce a budget and the supposed Coalition or other parties agreed to try to work together,Layton and Duceppe would vote against it with out regard for anything, tells me they are not there for Canadians but for themselves. Go away Mr.Layton you could not possibly run this country and Mr. Duceppe you are not allowed.




Ryder
said

No surprise there. "coalitions' 'alliances' 'cooperatives' call it what you will. They are only good for self-serving individuals that know they cant make it on their own, that is wht Layton is whining now.

There is an old expression; 'Keep your friends close, your enemies closer.'


Rad from Sask
said

Canada with 2 parties that represent Canada. The block represents Qubec and NDP represents Jack. Now its time to run Canada and get on with life.


what happen to happy days
said

Well it looks like Bob Rae and Layton are ready to tear their hair out. Rae the original socialist is join Layton as the NDP are ready to turf Layton for his stupidity and Rae will return to their fold. whine you socialist Whine. Ignatieff has taken you out of the picture and when Ignatieff wants an election your party has to vote with him because of Layton's big mouth you are screwed.Now you need a new leader


Marc in BC
said

Anything that displeases Mr. Layton and/or Mr Duceppe is a good thing.


JKP
said

Paul J Graham
"Jack Layton is anything but "power hungry" or "radical left""
Dude! What-cha smokin? Can the rest of us get sum?
Obviously, you have not been taking your med's or the institution you are currently in doesn't give you guy's anything but the funny papers to read!


joe moose jaw sask
said

all i can say jack is suck it up princess this is your last hurrah


GWinSJ
said

God Jack, give it up buddy! We know you came this close to being relevant. Let it go.


Doug
said

Layton stated he would vote down the budget before he ever saw it. By doing so he handed the ball to the Liberals, undermined his personal credibility, and crippled his own agenda.

He is just interested in a power grab, and is mad because he has lost his chance. Fortunately for all of us!



Darren
said

Darren
It's so despicable to see this left-leaning socialist Jack to dare to say that he'll be voting down the budget before he even sees it. That shows that he is more concerned about taking power through the backdoor than caring for the overall interest of Canadians especially during this time of global economic uncertainty.


Anne M
said

Ohhhh Jack, you snake oil salesman, your mouth is full of sour grapes. Go soak your head in cold water and cool it boy!!!!!


KJO
said

Let's keep in mind what an opportunest Jack is. Remember when he and Olivia lived in social housing while city councillors in TO. That is until the media found out and reported it. He will take any opportunity to do what is right for Jack, not anyone else. Jack has no hope in hell of ever forming a government. The people of Canada are not stupid. Jack, why don't you and Olivia just peddle your bikes off into the sunset.


Joel - Edm
said

Boo-Hoo Jack!


Richard L. Provencher
said

Will Jack stop whining and go away somewhere? You gambled and you lost, so did your credibility and your party. How could the NDP reject outright a budget crucial to our country without even wanting to look at it. Pity. Thank goodness Mr. Ignatieff showed some sense. And I am thankful Mr. Harper is our PM. A majority for the Conservatives next election.


Dan from McMurray
said

Just like cats.....if there is something better offered somewhere else, away they go...Time for Layton, and his Bloc buddy to take their ball and go home....


charlie
said

Too bad, Jack - your ticket to 24 Sussex Drive was only a sightseeing ticket after all. The alarm goes and you wake up - that's the way it works. Well, comrade, if you can't attain power, you can always make speeches, and more speeches, and .... you get the idea. Perhaps you could take some lessons from Tim Buck. He was just as effective as you will ever be.


Elizabeth
said

I am so tired of listening to Jack Layton's lamenting and ranting about "loosing confidence in the government". Anyone that votes against something before it is even released to the public doesn't deserve to be in power. Give it up Jack - stop trying to further your own personal agenda. We have lost confidence in "you" to do what is right for the country.


Albertaboy
said

LDB
Jack Layton is nothing more than a self serving ,self centered,distructive little oportunist.This little creep and his separtist buddy should be kicked out of parliament.They are both traitors to the country and only serve their own agenda.Fortunately,the Liberals seem to finally be seeing the error of their ways.

Couldn't have said it better myself!!!!!!!


Peter, Winnipeg
said

jack is pathetic!!! How about selling used cars, jack?


Two Party Man
said

Poor old Jack.
His bat and ball now gone away
So with the big boys he now can't play.
The game is past, his cheerleaders gone
He stands amid the dross alone.
His dreams of home run hitting fame
Are swallowed by the way the game
Is played above his mind and heart.
But as he goes he plays the part
Of one betrayed,
Left to wonder why he brayed so long and hard
The chorus of Dion and Ray.
Oh how he'll come to rue the day
He tried with them the coup to form.
Now NDP will be the norm
For failure of an insurrection.
When next he faces an election.



Will
said

LOL! You're living in fantasy land, Happy Jack! You are completely out of touch and irrelevant. The Canadian economy would tank if you ever had your way. Thankfully your version of the (communist) coalition never took place.


Dan LeClair
said

The Liberals finally did something for the Country's good, rather than their own. I give one extra point to Ignatieff - perhaps there is hope for him afterall.


Richard in Toronto
said

Jack Layton is so power hungry it's pathetic. The NDP would do well to dump him ASAP.


Drew in NS
said

Hey Jack, If I was you I'd take whats left of your marbles and go home.

None of the big boys want to play with you anymore!!!


Dan From McMurray
said

Time for alberta to separate! I'm getting tired of these crackers attempting to ruin the country!


Nick
said

Gas/energy runs North American economy. Instead of giving rebate in personal income taxes and other Tax credits ($20-30/month), if govt. could have a better watch dog on gas prices, I think everyone will save around $40-50/month (at least).
We would like to know one thing that last night when crude prices fell more than $4 then prices went down only 1.2 cents but today when crude price went up 58 cents, gas prices are up 2.7 cents. We need a better control on oil companies.



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