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Harper says nothing can replace U.S. leadership
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CTV.ca News Staff
Date: Wed. Apr. 1 2009 9:28 PM ET
In London ahead of the G20 summit, Prime Minister Stephen Harper said Wednesday that nothing can replace American leadership as the global community works to solve the economic crisis.
In an interview with Britain's Sky News, Harper said he expects the Americans to adopt a "consensual approach" at the summit, which begins on Thursday.
Still, Harper said "there's very little that can be done without American leadership."
He urged European nations and the rest of the world to "respond" to U.S. efforts and "act together to address difficult global problems like the recession."
In an interview with CNN Wednesday, Harper said he will be urging G20 leaders to "over-act" on fixing the economy.
He said because of the scale of the recession it's much more dangerous to not do enough than to spend too much.
CTV's Ottawa Bureau Chief Robert Fife, travelling with Harper, said the prime minister has made no time to answer questions from Canadian media.
Earlier Wednesday, Harper staged a photo opportunity Wednesday with Calgary-born soccer star Owen Hargreaves.
Hargreaves plays for Manchester United in the English Premier League.
Harper also met with the Queen at Buckingham Palace.
Fife said the Queen will be visiting Canada next year.
Obama calls for unity
At a press conference Wednesday, U.S. President Barack Obama called for unity among world leaders ahead of the summit.
Obama, on his first overseas trip since taking power, said world leaders can "only meet this challenge together."
He also downplayed reports that the U.S. was feuding with other nations over how to tackle the crisis, saying any differences were "vastly overstated."
"I am absolutely confident that this meeting will reflect enormous consensus about the need to work in concert to deal with these problems," Obama said at a joint press conference with Brown.
Obama called for regulatory reform and said protectionism was not the solution.
He said he came on behalf of the U.S. to "listen, not to lecture."
Still, he added that the U.S. will "not miss an opportunity to lead."
The president said he was not worried about the stability of the U.S. economic system.
"I think that there is a vibrancy to our economic model, a durability to our political model, and a set of ideals that has sustained even through the most difficult times," Obama said.
Fife said the Americans are focused on putting lots of money into stimulus.
"The Europeans are concerned about doing that," Fife said. "They're concerned that if you bring too much money it's going to lead to inflation down the road."
With files from The Associated Press
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The PM spoke to international media while attending the G20 summit, but has decided to skip Canadian media outlets.
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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.
Comments are now closed for this story
James from Canada
said
Reducing fear in a global economical slowdown is a good way to slowly get the world's economy moving again.
A Conservative government here in Canada does not mean we are uncivilized. Quite the opposite actually.
MJ
said
Georges
said
Wish I could afford a trip there, or better still have the tax payers dollar pay for it.
Jimmyjim
said
When it right down to it, citizens of any country cannot look past their own borders at the best of times. Throw in a severe economic crisis and that distance vision grows more short sighted. Citizens will look out for their survival first before agreeing not to put up trade barriers.
Try as he might, Obama's talk of a world wide solution to this crisis will, in the end, be just talk. Americans, pissed off at Wall Street investment scammers, Detroit car makers and sub prime bankers are going to want to assert "Americans First" and the rest of the world will follow behind.
Buckle up for a bumpy ride!
Lisa Winslet
said
It's rare to see any fair and balanced reporting on the P.M from the Cdn. media.
Ryan keng
said
Fatman
said
So what! It was photo ops, gentlemen! Live with it, grab a life and get over it!As I see it he didn't give you a backhand so why are you seemingly bending over backwards to give him one? I'm sure when he has something to say he'll give your chains a rattle and until then he'll go about his, and the country's business.
Oh, sorry, I take it all back, I failed to remember that it's the duty of the Canadian press to take a swipe at our P.M. at every possible opportunity, even if it means burying off topic banter inside an otherwise interesting, informative article. I'll remember that in future. This won't happen again until next time.
Gawd, is it any wonder he (our P.M.) has developed an apparent dislike for the Canadian media? If I were in his shoes I think I would too!
Fatman
said
Get yourself elected Prime Minister and your dreams can come true! - POSSIBLY NOT!
As I understand it, although not verified, expenses incurred for families that accompany government officials on junkets here and there are reimbursable to the Crown, if this is so, great, no free ride for the Harper family. On the other hand, if not reimbursable, well, what the heck, the jet was going that way anyway and what's another passenger or two or three.
Really folks, aren't there more important things for us to be worrying about at this time?
Jason B
said
Massive lay-off would, in the short term, boost profits. In the end, however, would devastate the economy.
James from Canada has a good point. Predictions of economic "doom & gloom" will only intensify people's fears.
We know there's a crisis, let's think more about how to get us out of it. And, how to prevent the same mess from happening again.
GJ
said
Nothing substantitive , just a big photo op.
If this is the best the world has to offer, oh boy is it in trouble..
DCR-Toronto
said
The Prime Minister flys all over the world on a continous basis doing his job. If his family goes with him once in awhile, then so be it. He spends very little time with them as it is...to serve his country. I'd rather pay the bill (as a tax payer)for his family to fly to England with him, over the Liberals thieving millions upon millions.
Denis
said
Joanne from Ottawa
said
David
said
Ted
said
Rick in NB
said
What are you crying about. One poster mentioned the family. Why are you condenming the media?
I guess complaining comes easy when you have no leader.
Julie
said
Scene
said
Also if the PM took his family to Europe with him so be it. If it's with tax payers money, I don't think it's right, but hell there are a lot of people out there living of our tax payers money. If his kids are being educated in Europe with that money with this trip and experience it would be better to have them learning then some 55 year old at GM getting it because his $75/ hour wage is not being met.
Renee
said
And about Harper taking his family, so what? Someone else said the plane was going that way anyway. For all we know the family may have been saving spare change in a jar for the past year to go. Besides what a great educational experience for the kids!
Caper
said
Cambob
said
Yes, it is normal. We pay for it.
The first reaction is jealousy. "This guy gets to take his wife and kids on a business trip?" Yes, he does. An additional benefit to Canada is that a functional family unit with a happy wife and joy filled children makes a powerful statement when presented on the world stage.
The second reaction is envy. "This guy takes his family on business trips and we pay for it?" He is a public servant. His salary and benefits are paid by taxpayers, as are all government employees.
Now, if you don't like the current Canadian political system, or you feel you are being 'cheated', then stop paying your taxes. It's really that simple.
david sawkiw[saskatchewan farmer]
said
On the flip side, our previous PM was a complete bafoon, and the media portrayed him as great.
On the world stage he did little more than embarrass me.
Thomas
said
db
said
MHB
said
eddytoronto
said
What the Obama administration is really doing is taxing ordinary people in order to bail out the super rich. The 95% of Americans who get the tax cut will find that it is offset many times by the depreciation in the dollar and the raging inflation that will result from monetizing the multi-trillion dollar budget deficits made necessary by the bailouts of the banksters.
In the United States, government has become expert at manipulating both left-wing and right-wing ideologies. It keeps those on both ends of the spectrum set at each other’s throats in order to ensure the government’s continuing independence from accountability.
Historically, the definition of a free person is a person who owns his own labour. Serfs were not free, because they owed their feudal lords, the government of that time, a maximum of one-third of their labour. Nineteenth century slaves were not free, because their owners could expropriate 50% of their labour.
Today, no American is a free person. The lowest tax rate, not counting state income, property tax and sales tax, is 15% Social Security tax and 15% federal income tax. The “free American” starts off with a 30% tax rate, the position of a medieval serf.
In medieval Europe, when tax rates reached beyond 30%, serfs rebelled and killed their masters.
Confusion from Private
said
Bluenose
said
G
said
Pat_from_Mississauga
said
Ian
said
Canada Goose Whistler
said
Rick in NB
said
Harper wants us to think that he is making history, but he is just watching history being made.
Another Harper Foollower
said
Nice to see his family enjoy an economic summit and the sites of London while many Canadians are struggling to make ends meet. Canceling our vacations is what most Canadians are doing and he has no Shame in taking his family to London. Morally wrong. Politically foolish.
What an embarrassment.
Sara
said
Mat Lewy
said
Jack R
said
Hence, why you're so mistrusted by your own citizens Mr. Harper. Your agenda is apparently a state that emulates the Republican empire. And for that, you'll never get a majority government.
Mario
said
Roger T
said
Darren
said
I am proud to have such an intelligent PM representing this country.
Jon in Burl.
said
Rick in AB
said
I would rather the P.M take his family with him and we pay that small bill then have one of the best P.M.s this country has seen to not go for re-election because he has neglected his family on our behalf and chooses to spend more time with them. He is doing, and has done a great deal for this country, and to allow him to have a good wholesome relationship with his family is a No Brainer. It is his right, and wouldn't it help him to be a better leader if he is happy at home?
After all this isn't stolen money like we saw in the sponsorship scandal.
I think this is part of the problem with the so called advanced western world. We expect people to put the job before family and a balanced life and then we wonder why people get greedy and cause a fiasco like we are in now or end up in the spotlight because of poor choices and scandals.
Showing the rest of the world that he is a family man and values having his family with him only serves to shed a better light on Canada as a whole.
I wish the media would start giving the P.M a lot more positive press and talk about how he has actually set Canada up for success prior to the recession and how we are now looking much better in the world markets because of his unpopular decisions.
We don't need to nessecarily talk Canadian protectionism, but how about a little Canadian Pride in the fact that we have come out closer to the top!!
I Love this country, I served in the forces for it - I hate the constant Pessimism though.
bill ontario
said
island girl
said
raj dhaliwal
said
funny that none of the european papers even mention harper.
so he did an interview with CNN and the interview was on the cutting floor.
how insignificant can you get
Andy Kanata
said
LAL - Ont
said
Every leader in the free world is scrutinized by the world press. If the Prime Minister is having difficulty dealing with this, he needs to take his pail and shovel and get out of the sandbox.
Mary Clarke
said
But for now,that's the way it is,and anything they do,will affect the entire World,financially.
And I do agree,that the P.M receives almost nothing but negative press and spin,from our media.
Raj
said
Bravo!
annie, ontario
said
They are heading quickly into socialism, where as capitalism will be what gets the economy going.
Right now, I believe the worst thing that could happen is to follow the U.S. leadership anywhere, in fact doing the opposite would be very prudent.
Catherine Wilson
said
Who cares if he takes his kids? It's not as though the expenses would be much higher. The plane and hotel is already a requirement.
It's just ,as usual much ado about nothing,and the creation of negativity,by the Cnd. press. What else is new? The press needs to start reporting the news and not continually offering nothing but spin.
CHAD
said
Pip
said
The Prime Minister took his family with him to Britain! he hasn't spoken to Canadian reporters, only to CNN!
Oh, Goosey Lucy, What is going to happen to us!
I'm soooo scared!
So many Chicken Littles posting today.
Acadian Canadian
said
Ken - Calgary
said
Harper refuses to talk to CANADIAN media?
It looks to me like Harper has finally come to terms with the fact that he is a weak, incompetant, ineffectual leader, and that nobody on the world stage wants to hear a single thing that comes out of his mouth. The ONLY people in the world who are proud of Harper are the 30% of the fooled voters in this country who still support this lackluster party. The rest of the world just sees another G W Bush. So while all of the Conservative supporters will be on here spewing utter nonsense about how great Harper is, please realize - the rest of planet earth thinks he is a buffoon. He is NOT someone we can be proud of on the world stage, and no amount of "yay Harper" nonsense on this board is going to change that.
Dianne
said
What is it with Stephen Harper's obsession with the FOX Network anyway? SKY News UK is an affiliate of the FOX Network.
FOX Network 'mocks' Canada's participation in the war in Afghanistan last weekend at the same time as 4 soldiers made their final trip home after paying the 'ultimate sacrifice'. And, Stephen Harper ignores that fact and goes on FOX not once but now twice.
Doesn't give Canadian media access? What's Harper afraid of?
Chris in Calgary
said
john m
said
Steve the Pundit
said
"Prime Minister Stephane Dion left for London today to attend the G20 summit".
Too scary to even contemplate...
James
said
I just purchased energuy saving bulbs for my room and instead of using 60 Watts they use 13 Watts, are much more efficient and give off the same light without the wasted heat energy.
I am now saving money for the people from who I rent. It is also good for the environment. Remember the brownouts during the heat of the summer when so many airconditioners were in use??
Every little bit helps.
Prof. Pye Chartt
said
"Meanwhile, thousands of protesters tried to storm the Bank of England Wednesday, tossing eggs and fruit at police. Demonstrators shouted "Abolish Money!" while others rocked the barricades set up to block them. Protesters are calling the day "Financial Fool's Day."
_______________________
The Media always loves to enlighten us with (supposedly) sound evidence of (supposedly) sane and rational opposition to all global efforts having to do, largely, with democratic capitalism.
As if the "system" that has always floated our boats, and continues to, is horrendously unfair and unjust.
Placing a bunch of cameras and microphones around another bunch of left-wing, socialist crazies protesting against the economic realities of life is a mere pointless distraction from the story at hand.
ziad kraytem
said
is this a joke? ..does mr. harper even thinks before he says this rubbish ?.
if it wasn't of usa who wants to control the world we wouldn't have this economic crisis !!
Mel from Calgary
said
Ray
said
Nick in Gatineau
said
That domestic media is THE ONLY way of communication between the PM and the poeple of the country.
The moment he fails to speak to domestic media, he is disassociating himself from his duties - that is first and foremost to the electorate.
The only link is media.
So him going to US media to speak is borderline electoral treason. It is an affront to every citizen in the country and to his constituants - who of course are clueless as to our electoral system so they don't know any better.
People also don't realize that not every canadian has internet access.
Government cronies believe the every canadian WANTS to know what they are doing so they assume that the second you go on the internet, you are seeking out news on the PM. WRONG.
Govt. no longer believes in posting things in all communities affected. They believe that simply posting it online is good enough.
Those who have access use it for their own means.
So to Harper's staff who are present here, think long and hard about using the Net exclusively as your domestic medium of communication.
You cannot preach transparency when you don't practice it.
Sherry
said
American Prime Minister?
said
Bluenose
said
Ban the Press
said
I can not believe that they ask questions and THEN they expect answers. Who is regulating these people? And why are they allowed to question Steven Harper?
I for one do not blame Mr. Harper for side stepping around this horde.
If nothing else, Mr. Harper is very consistent in his disdain and disrespect for anyone who does not think like him.
We want to respect you Steve, but what are you thinking? I mean other than it is the fault of the Liberals, the NDP, the Americans, and now the press.
Not even 4 months ago Harper was against stimulating the economy and now he says we all need to over stimulate it. We do need questions answered. For the good of the country.
Harper must be sucking up to US for his next job.
said
Becky from NB
said
What is up with the comments here made about the PM taking his wife and kids. Do you have any clue how much America spends on their president??!!! Harper is the Prime Minister; he deserves a little respect and honour.
Besides, he is so busy that he probably doesn't have much time to spend with his family. This is a way that he can.
GIVE HIM A BREAK!
Jp
said
Jasper
said
Pat_from_Mississauga
said
Common CDN
said
That's what they've been saying over the last three elections. If the Canadians were so fearful of Harper, they wouldn't vote for him.
It looks like the scare tactics brought on by the Liberals - soldiers with guns on every street corner, isn't working out for them really well. I'm still waiting for that!
Also, where's my 40 millions dollars the Liberals took from Canadian tax payers? I'm still waiting for that to come to fruition.
Supporting inflationary policy of USA.
said
Whom does Harper purport to represent? Canada or the USA?
For whom is Harper working? Canadians or the USA financial sector crooks?
Fay
said
Whinging like this sends more and more Canadians to the internet for facts.
Sparky
said
Until we as a civilized society continue to skirt these questions, we will never be stable, economically, socially or morally. I would hope these questions are of the utmost importance to all of the men and women who make up the current leadership of this planet.....
M from Calgary
said
Gilles Etcheverry
said
Please allow me to say No to your CTV bashing as well, medias report what’s going on out there, contrary to what some here believe they have no reason to have biased article and they don’t have a grudge against Harper. CTV has journalist of many dissents, parties and opinions. They do a great job of diplomacy journalism.
You have this forum for Canadians and citizens of other countries to express themselves. It show a true picture of what CTV is. That’s my dinner hour opinion. Have a nice day !!!
Gilles, Montreal
Joel - Edm
said
Do these protestors really even know what they are protesting for anymore, or has it just become the thing to do.
Saddened Canadian
said
I honestly believe that bankers/banks and this monetary/money system is the source of the problem. It's not working and it will probably never work. Don't we all (even the governments) "borrow" money from the banks and the bankers which immediately puts us into debt as we are paying them back with interest. So in a way doesn't money=debt? The ones with the money (bankers) are probably the ones really running the show and I think something needs to be done about it. Spending and getting more money is not going to solve any of our problems in the long run. We need a new and up to date system. With all of what we know now and all of the technology we have these days, I am sure there is a better way.
Larry NL
said
The Canadian media has one agenda and that is to demean our country's leader at every chance they can. I don't think it is Prime Minister Harper that they are really going after, but the Conservative party. Why? The conservatives have done a far superior job in the last few years than the liberals ever did in the previous 13 years.
And if Iggy ever got in, Canada would be on a slippery slope to nowhere.
As for the prime minister taking his family to England, good for him. It is good to be with family as much as possible.
Nick in Gatineau
said
Lead was the main industry and thus Unions were the main targets if Gold was adopted. Of course, the Church put its weight behind the unions and tried to oust democracy itself and asked the people to reinstate monarchies wherever possible through poilitical parties that supported both Church and State.
After WWII, Gold was changed to US Dollars. Where we have been ever since.
Simply stating that it is better to stay with the US dollar is the best thing to do is to wear blinders as to the reality of our present world. Trade cannot come in the form of nuclear threats strapped to tariffs or as condition of membership.
The fact is that the world is in a recession because of the US. All because of a $ 55 million margin call.
The toxic assets were known to everyone who passed laws allowing financial institutions to sell them as early as 2000.
Now, if China, Japan or Saudi Arabia call in just 2% of the US loans they own, the US will be bankrupt. The world will head into something we have never seen and has never even been written about.
Still guessing which side Harper sits on !!! Didn't they (Reformers, oops, conservatives) want parliament to have prayers at one point ?
MRC in Ontario
said
I'd like to think that after I've busted by ba**s all my life to become Prime Minister, I deserve to have the decent priviledge of bringing my family on the road with me from time to time (since I'm on the road so often).
Get some perspective. Cheap political partisan jabs that have nothing directly to do with the article shouldn't even be posted.
simon
said
Isn't this or the lack thereof that got us into this mess in the first place?
One thing we must do, for sure.
Replace Harper ASAP !!!
MHB
said
OK, consider Obama criticized.
said
Eckart
said
opinion
said
And we wonder why people protest against this nonsense.
Gail (Hamilton)
said
Fatman
said
"Fatman: It's funny what you say about CTV hounding the PM"
I don't find it funny and it's not just CTV, further on in my post I refer to the Canadian press collectively..
"and showing him in a bad light as they are and have been the biggest supportors of the PM ever since he took office."
That's your opinion and I respect your entitlement to it but I would beg to differ..
"CTV has gone out of it's way to help Harper. Remember what the CTV did to Dion
and the Liberals all thru the past TWO elections."
Again I don't agree with you, what happened to Dion and the Liberals they did to themselves with a bit of help from Mr. Martin and that last great Canadian dictator, Mr. Jean Poutine.
"Harper even appointed the political guru from CTV to the senate (Mike Duffy)."
And what's wrong with that? The Liberals have never appointed one of their political hacks to the upper house? Anyway, Mike needed a good place to warm his whatever in his golden years (Sorry Mike, had to)..
"So quit your whining"
You ain't heard me whine yet my friend..
"as Harper is front and center now and NEEDS to explain his actions to Canadians"
And he does when HE determines it's time for us to know and I respect that, perhaps you should too. I mentioned something about chain rattling in my original post, look and see..
"thru Canadian media, not run to the US to make late night chit chat with American media.
Going to the US makes perfect sense to me. American networks are carried up here by the Canadian cable companies but not visa versa. By going south he got to Canadians AND Americans, also did Fox to get to the American rednecks.
"Why the paranoia"
None here!
E.P.
said
Now, I find this forum to be more annoying than anything else, let alone uninformative.
I am particularly surprised at the hatred and intolerance expressed by some of these so called "left leaning" people. I thought that was a trait you all reserved for people with conservative values. It seems to me that the tables have turned and now the hatred and bigotry is coming from the left, and you are all too quick to justify it since it's only the conservatives you so openly hate. Well these conservatives just happen to be ordinary tax paying Canadians just like everyone else.
Extreme left opinions are just as destructive and despicable as far right ones.
So, to all you extreme lefties out there... YOU ARE WHAT YOU HATE.
Sylvain
said
Robo in Red Deer
said
roy
said
Libra
said
Doug BC
said
The way the media and the Harper Haters work these days I think Stephen Harper could walk on water and some would whine about the bottom of his feet being wet.How sad for us as a nation.
That said,I think this summit as not going to come up with anything startling for the economy.I think they all want to.But,when economists get together,all we can expect is a huge number of opinions.When it involves many nations,there is a vast difference,not only of opinions,but of national interests.I agree with "Jimmyjim" had to say in his post.And,it seems most of the pundits and talking heads watching this summit also agree.
For the most part,the USA wants more spending of our children and grandchildrens future earnings,Europe wants more regulation of banks and financial systems,while China and Russia want more power for their own countries.
In my opinion,Europe is likely right about the regulationsas a long term fix..But the USA probably has a point that spending is needed until the systems are properly regulated.
In a nut shell,the USA wants to remain the leader of the world,but many others insist they will only follow if they come up with a better financial system.
What we can hope for,is open and honest discussions that could be used to create models that address both concerns.That is the only hope for the average person in ANY country.
Strict ideologies on either side will not help.
Tom Hanna
said
Catherine Wilson
said
Or wasting $2 BILLION on a useless gun registry,that thugs will never sign up for.
We already know their priorities!
david sawkiw[saskatchewan farmer]
said
Enough already!!!
Canada Goose Whistler
said
The media prints the truth, that's all, Harper is an idiot.
Facts:
Liberal Paul Martin is the one responsible for our strong banks. Harper tried to deregulate our banks to make them like the USA.
This article, everyone in the world knows the USA is responsible for the mess the worlds in, so why would any idiot say nothing can replace US leadership.
Harper wants to throw away the gun registry so criminals have easier access to guns. He told you to go gamble on the stock market. Everyone else in the world knew we were in a recession, but Harper said our economy was strong. I could go on forever, the point I was trying to make is. Leave the media alone they are reporting news as it happens. Harper himself is the only one making him look like an idiot!
ik
said
James Halifax
said
Memo to Canadian Media:
Start asking real questions, and stop hunting for "Gotcha" moments. In years past we have had the Canadian Media focusing more on Harper's weight and hair than on anything substantial. The Canadian Media has been caught in blatant biased coverage, from reporters planting questions with Liberal MP's on committees, the CBC doing a cut and paste hatchet job whereupon the "reporter" took splices of one piece of footage and tied it to an unrelated piece to make the PM look bad..etc..etc....the list is endless. Oh...and of course, the CBC superimposing the workds "Heil Harper" shortly after his first election victory. Sorry Canadian Media...you are ignored for a reason.
Now that the media is shilling for Ignatieff, you won't hear about more fundraising "problems" with the Liberal Party, though proof of "irregularities" are all over the web.
Face it, Canada's media cannot be trusted to report honestly. Canadian reporters are basically dishonest and shallow folk who refuse to follow up on real stories, and instead try to make themselves the story, "THe prime minister won't talk to me!!"
Too bad....no one else would want to talk to you either given your penchant for distortion and bias. No wonder newspapers and other media sources are starting to tank....they have earned it.
Aron in TO answer to MHB
said
So what if Canada pulls funding to teach English to Arabs Immigrants? Don't like the system MHB ; don't let the door hit you in the rear.
What's next ; shall we put a Sharia Court next to the Supreme Court?? We think NOT!!
For a New Canadian ;you sure have alot of opinions.
But at least in Canada you wont get beheaded for voicing them. Be Greatful Canadians allowed you in to this country!!!
Kris D.
said
If we had a Conservative government for the past 6 - 8 years we'd be in just as bad a shape as the US. Harper talked big on de-regulation for many years.
Seriously, go look at CNN, BBC, SkyNews and you won't find squat on Canada. Perhaps he should make some time for our own media, since we're the only one's that care what he has to say.
Alex (Toronto)
said
It's interesting to see Harper praising the US, but one has also seen European conservative leaders try to catch some of President Obama's spotlight.
The US stimulus plan is going to tremendously dwarf whatever the Europeans do, so whatever inflation is going to happen is not under their control. As long as the inflation rate is below 3-4%, it's not a serious concern in the short term; their inflation rate is declining and may hit zero because the drop in demand outweighs the stimulus. The Europeans can either benefit from the stimulus or they can let the recovery pass them by.
Philip
said
Mark
said
Wendy
said
Read what Harper himself the idiot said.
Nothing can replace USA leadership! The whole world knows the USA lead the world into this mess, their new president has come up with nothing so far that will work.
Then he goes on to say we should all over react. The whole world knows over reacting to anything is usually a bad thing, cool heads prevail. The media is only reporting the news. Harper is the only one responsible for making himself look like an idiot.
Bill Yeo
said
Andy - Vancouver
said
This is the same guy who 'gasms over anything south of the border and pretty much says as much...
Wish he'd demonstrate the same enthusiasm over his own country... I guess that's asking too much from a Conservative.
Oh well, he'll probably be neighbours with the Mulroney's in Florida in a few years anyway...
Andy Y - Vancouver
said
Explain to me why CTV would report on an American president, when they are a Canadian news organization?
If you want Obama, watch Fox News, CNN is probably too liberal for you...
Steve the Pundit
said
Double standard, anyone?
Hunter Mars
said
Jean and Paul always left their wives at home .
Did Obama take Micehelle and his daughters ?
This clown has got to go .
The optics are horrible .
" Let them eat cake "
K D
said
KM
said
MHB
said
M
said
Mr Brain
said
Ray in AB
said
Cynthia Belrose
said
Have your M.P's refer to Americans[in general] as "dam bastards",as Carolyn Parrish had done.
Yes,that really helps our Country with diplomatic and economic relations.
You think?
Whether we like it or not,we have close economic ties to the U.S. It would be foolish of us,to damage them further,than the Libs spent of years doing.
For now,the U.S is the Global economic engine.
Why would any Party choose to deliberatley damage our ties,at this crucial time of a Global downturn?
Especialy Canada,who is reliant on it's co-operation in economic matters?
Stephen Harper is simply choosing diplomacy,over division,for the good of our Country.
Ray in AB
said
We have a Great leader, One who also understands that of the 4.4 billion people in the G20 Countries, we are a mere 30 million people and are still affected by the rest of the g20 nations, Now you could promote that everyone does whats best for them, which will lead to bitter disaster, or you ask all the countries to work with the economic superpower of the world. Hmmm 1 country brought the world down, it would stand to reason you all get on their ship and everything will be sailing smoothly again.
Ryan SJ
said
Saldin
said
Marty Chisolm
said
If you'd been following Canadian politics,you might have known,that Corporate donations are banned.
Why do you think that the Liberal Party has been flat broke for years?
To spite, Paul Martin,Chretien,before leaving Office, changed the rules on Corporate donations.
The Libs have found themselves flat broke since,as they have always relied heavily, on the Corporate "elite" to fund their Party.
Big businees, always had their hands in the Liberal Party, and the taxpayer pockets.
If anyone doesn't believe that,they can easily find it out on the web.
-Or simply ask yourselves,why the Libs are SO broke.
DGL
said
Calgarian
said
I don't mind that he went with his family (as long as he is paying the expenses and not righting his family off on his taxes or using Government loopholes), I do mind that he is showing no sympathy towards the many Canadians who have cancelled any plans of a family vacation this year or next many of us are spending our family vacations within an hour drive of where (or used to) work.
And to those who say he's setting a good example as a family man? Bull####… what you are saying is that Steve is a better father than a person who cannot afford (OR ALLOWED) to take his family on his Business trip.
Johan, Newmarket
said
G
said
Does he ever do anything right?
Did Stephanne Dionne?
Will anyone ever do anything right?
Fatman
said
"Fatman,"
Yes..
"Please allow me to say No to your CTV bashing as well,"
OK..
"medias report what’s going on out there,"
And rightly so..
"contrary to what some here believe they have no reason to have biased article"
Oh how I wish you were right there my friend. Unfortunately, since the time of Macdonald, Sir John A. that is, and the good old Kingston Whig-Standard, until today, media outlets have chosen "sides" and rallied around their champions as we as children used to rally around the Montreal Canadiens! (Yes, I was a fellow Montrealler years past, even born there!)
"and they don’t have a grudge against Harper."
Well, don't quite see it that way, as many others here today would agree, but..
"CTV has journalist of many dissents, parties and opinions."
You hit that nail on the head..
"They do a great job of diplomacy journalism."
At times, however when it comes to reports involving Mr. Harper I do believe they do get some degree of satisfaction out of crawling his frame so-to-speak. Kinda pay-back time for his reluctance to join them at the "local" for drinks after work"
"You have this forum for Canadians and citizens of other countries to express themselves.
And I praise God for it, Allah too..
"It show a true picture of what CTV is. That’s my dinner hour opinion.
Have a nice day !!!"
Thank you and my best to you sir..
"Gilles, Montreal"
P.S. Any relation to Sam "The Rifle"., one great ballplayer!
Frank (Toronto)
said
Funny, I distictly recall the PM making time for CTV's Craig Oliver last weekend on Question Period. He did the same for Global National's Eric Sorenson (You can see this on globalnational.ca if you missed the TV report). So what's the problem?
And those of you whining about the PM taking his wife & kids with him on this trip? GET A LIFE!!!! I don't hear Americans crying about the fact Michelle Obama is accompanying her husband. In fact, she's the media darling over there. Having the Prime Minister's wife and two children with him on this trip only humanizes Mr. Harper, making him appear to be what he is "AN ORDINARY CANADIAN". Of course, some in this country refuse to accept anyone but a dirty Liberal lawyer representing Canada on the world stage.
Marco Ramius
said
2. Harper's an idiot that would have deregulated banks like they did in the US, damn good thing that didn't happen.
Fatman
said
"Hey Fatman,"
Yes
"Explain to me why CTV would report on an American president, when they are a Canadian news organization?"
You can't be serious, are you for real? Do I really have to tell you that the American president is the head of that great elephant that sleeps along the complete southern border of our nation? Don't you know he's the man who dictates, over his term of office much of the policy and direction the beast will take? Do you not understand that when that elephant sneezes we catch a cold and more often than not it is the same one our southern neighbors have? Would not the above enlighten you as to why I, and many other Canadians would want the press, Canadian or not, to report anything Obama is doing or even thinking? If you can't follow the above perhaps more simply put, just about anything that comes down the tube from the American president will impact us one way or another and there's no way to get around it! You asked, I told ya!
"If you want Obama, watch Fox News, CNN is probably too liberal for you..."
Now what would give you that impression? Truth be known, I watch all the news networks EXCEPT Fox!
Take care and have a great one.....
Remarkable
said
Scotty from Canada
said
Now he's out there touting the US once again, which is fine - he's already proven that he hates Canada, so he might as well glorify the US. After all, Harper bragging about our banks is pure hypocrisy, so I guess he has nothing left.
How Harper still manages to get ANY support from Canadians is absolutely appalling. Even if I were a right-leaning person, having Harper at the helm of this country is nothing short of humiliating.
John
said
So I guess Harper's going to be Obama's lap-dog, just like Blair was to Bush.
James in St. John's
said
M M B Ont
said
If the Canadian media cannot report fairly on Harper but always report negatively, then why should he bother speaking to them. Harper is representing our country proudly and he is working hard for this country of ours. I know many don't agree and that is because you have tunnel vision and can't see the truth if it hit you in the face. All you see if the negative and then add your own sorry woes to it!
To MHB:
Mr Harper is NOT dividing Canadians as you have stated in your post. Instead CANADIANS ARE DIVIDING CANADIANS and that comes clear from so many negative posts and the negative media reports on Canada's situation!
Josh From Dawson Creek
said
Steve the Pundit
said
Or did you happen to miss the London arrival of the "first couple" on EVERY NEWS CHANNEL IN THE WORLD, camera flashes going in all directions as they descended the stairway from Airforce One.
Unbelieveable!!
ouiifyg
said
M M B Ont
said
Criminals already have easy access to guns and that is so prevalent in all the shootings in Toronto and Vancouver. Do you think that those guns used in those shootings were registered??? The Gun Registry has cost Millions of dollars to date. The guns that are registered are the guns that belong to people who have no intention of committing a crime. These people are not afraid to register their guns. On the other hand, when has a criminal registered his gun? Bet you would never find those in any registry and these are the guns that are used to kill people and commit crime... the UNREGISTERED GUNS!
It doesn't take a genius to figure this out!
And our economy is stronger than any other nations and that has been stated over and over by others. get your head out from between your legs and quit your moaning. Your hate for Harper is very clear! Enough said !
Nick in Gatineau
said
You wrote: '...Harper made his views on Canada and the US VERY clear in his speech to the National Citizens' Coalition (An AMERICAN extreme right wing organization) when he said "Canada is a Northern European welfare state in the worst sense of the term."
Scotty, Stephen Harper was the head of the National Citizens' Coalition in the 1990s.
Steve the Pundit
said
The "National Citizens' Coalition" is a CANADIAN organization, not American, and the speech you are referring to was nearly TEN YEARS AGO!
If we're holding people accountable to what they've said in the distant past:
- Stephane Dion said a carbon tax made no sense (and yet he offered the "Green Shift")
- Chretien said he'd axe the GST (did he?)
- How about Ignatieff and his comments on the Jews and the Palestinians?
- Or Trudeau saying no to wage and price controls (and then introducing them)?
Facts, people, facts! In today's internet age, it's so easy to check them before you make outrageous comments (and look silly in the process!)
Nancy Aresenault
said
As much as the media tried to portray Dion in a positive light,the proof was in the pudding.
This guy couldn't manage even a simple interview,and FINALLY,the media exposed just that.
It took many polls and lots of dissatisfaction,before the media,finally gave in,and realised that Dion was just NOT leadership material.
The media can only cover up a disaster,for so long,before appearing inept,like Dion consistently was.
I wonder just how many Canadians ,are now longing for Dion,to be in charge of the Country ,right now?
I doubt many.
And Ignatieff has chosen to spend almost his ENTIRE adulty life out of the Country,until he got the aspiration,from American friends,that he could simply go back,and possibly gain the highest power that Canada offers.
Notice ,the frequency,that Ignatieff refers himself to being an "American".
He refers to Canadians as "them".,and refers to himself consistently as an American.
One has to at least wonder,where his loyalty lies.
I have nothing against Americans.
I just would prefer that a Canadian ,through and through,was leading this Country's interests.
James_from Ontario
said
This very important mission is only 48 hours long! It makes perfect sense that this short time is best served by interacting with other world leaders, and granting an interview (an excellent one by the way) to Sky Television.
I'm sure Mr. Fife will have ample opportunity to ask his 'very tough' questions in the days ahead. Get over it Bob. Sheesh.
Simple minded Canadians
said
Me ME ME and i know everything cause Harper said so..wow the followers in this country baffle me daily with un educated slander.
I support CANADA, Not a specific party or person. If you even had a clue you would notice CTV doing the best they can with the information provided to them. The media does not need to spin anything, just remember Harper has minority support and all the Harper cronies on here flaming the media and everyone else shows you are the problem in this countries direction of failure. Your posts show your ignorance to the average out of work or struggling Canadian.
Its funny when you see the Con Cronies here Flame posters with no real direction than to bring down others to there pathetic level of A's and B's.
I used to support Harper but over the last 2 years his followers are nothing more than brain washed fouls.
Anyways Canada media deserve the prime minister to talk to Canadians, since we will be the ones deciding his future.
But that's fine keep flaming the average poster on how Harper is your GOD and can do no wrong. Only makes getting him replaced that much easier.
Mary Clarke
said
Is this message on the Liberal website,for all their supporters to spew off on public forums?
Harper loves his Country.
That's why he's chosen to live here,and raise his family here.
Many Canadians support his views,and are appreciative of his vast efforts,to look after our Country ,during this hardship.
He wasn't responsible for brown paper filled bags of Liberal money[tens of millions],being filtered off to freinds of their Party.
That was the Libs.
So far, he hasn't grasped any protesters by the neck, and attempted to strangle them,like Chretien.
He hasn't opted for consistent bashing of the American people,like the Libs constantly promoted.
He is trying to portray an important and diplomatic relationship with other World leaders.
-Having his family at his side,only shows his humanity,and family importance.
That fact alone should be praised,instead of condemned.
Did the Canadain media do a round up,on each Country,and determine which Country allowed family members to be present?
Or is this just another cheap attempt to discredit the P.M?
As supporter of the current Govt,I'm sick and tired of the media bias.
One expects critism,but the lenghts the Canadian media have gone to discredit our P.M is deplorable.
If I thought that they were bought and paid for[the media],then it certainly is not from the Conservative Party.
Rofl @ mary clake
said
Harper - Harper -I think you are the best leader in the world. Can i be in your government 2.
Harper says "Why yes of course, here is a print out of what you have to say, How you have to say it, and a nice phat cheque. Now run along and spread my message while I figure out how to get rid of the opposition ounce and for all. Ohh yah and if you can help by flaming the media that would be appreciated. thanks"
Hunter Mars
said
I said it was horrible optics what with thousands of their countrymen being thrown out of work on a daily basis.
None of them should have taken their families . Period.
Learn how to read PUNDIT.
What an idiot !
Dino51
said
Mary Clarke
said
Then Canadians could have watched the in fighting of the Bloc's demands for muti-billion dollar expenditures for Quebec,Jack Layton's insistence of bailing out any Union organisation,at all costs to the taxpayer,and the Libs flip -flopping on every issue,depending on which ways the polls swayed.
What a diaster that would have been!
The Libs were insistent on bailing out the auto industry,even BEFORE,they knew of the U.S stance.
This industry is TOTALLY reliant on U.S tax dollars.
If Canada had prematurely agreed to this,we may have just flushed billions down the toilet,like we did with the "politically correct" Gun registry.
Hurry,Hurry!!!
Spend spend!!!!!
You're not spending fast enough!!said the Libs.
You're not incurring just "quite" enough debt,said the Libs.
Let's get a grip.on what we can afford to spend,and quit getting too out of control with spending.
We'll have to endure some debt-but let's keep it down,as much as possible.
Future generations have to pay for it.
The Opposition has held "proud" for forcing the Govt,to spend recklessly,,or face defeat.
I would have preferred defeat,so the Opposition was held accountable,to their disastrous spending spree.
Andy Y - Vancouver
said
If I want to watch US news, I turn on cable. If I want to watch Canadian news, I turn on CTV.
And hey I even get world news on CTV, which includes the US.
Pretty basic, don't you think?
I am not interested in getting US news 24/7 on Canadian networks, that's what CNN is for, IMO...
That elephant you describe is pretty damn wounded right now and if it goes back to the "bubble and burst" economic policies of the right wingnuts, I doubt it have much relevant economic influence after another 20 years.
Economic collapse is on its horizon and it's time we divest even more from that market to insulate ourselves.
Harper loves his Country.
said
I voted him into power on false promises and now I will take great pleasure helping to vote this egomaniac out along with all his elitist and propaganda associated spammers.
From what i can see Cons would like to remove free speech all together since as is cronies above would put it. "Stop complaining, Don't show the facts, don't show the millions dead from a war we don't want to understand, don't question our gov cause they will lead us into prosperity."
Yup im sure that's how my great grandparents wanted it when we fought for this country you have now to have No Free speech, just suck it up and take everything your government tells you. That sounds like a healthy Country....
I used to Support Harper but after paying attention to his followers i do not want to be one.
The sickness they have is that they want to control everything and everyone and will step on anyone's back to get to the top and keep it.
Nothing but propaganda and lies from this government that preached gov accountability. Cons would not even admit we started into a recession in November last year and denied it till the very end.
Excuses - Excuses. Harper is a failure as a leader and as a man. Scared of a little media....Pathetic & Weak like the country he wants to build so America can lead us into a new colony for Rich Cons and poor civilians. Canada = the New Mexico thanks to Harper.
Speak up Canadians, the cons are weak and you can see it in the posts. Bye Bye Harper.
Heather McKenzie
said
He didn't have a clue to even the names of the World leaders that he was speaking with.
I had never felt so embarrassed,as to have that fool representing our Country.
He DID aquaint himself with China,though,and set himself up,with lucrative dealings,based on his former connections in Politics.
There was NEVER a more corrupt politican,than Jean Chretien.
He beats all,hands down.
conservative supporter
said
Does that ring a bell to anyone 30 and under.
Ouch.......i used to be young and stupid, Now i don't vote at all. Thanks Harper.
Media Bashers
said
Dion made himself look like an idiot the same as Harper is making himself look like an idiot.
Mary Clarke
said
look at "Canada Whistler Goose" comments.
He implies that the Conservative Govt. is all "gun crazy" and hill-billyish,just because they believe,as many of us do,that the Gun Registry is just a "politically correct" waste of tax payer dollars.
Who REALLY believes that any gang banging ,thugs,are EVER going to sign up for this "useless" registry??
Canada already has protocals for gun ownership,and hand guns have been banned for many decades.
Many of us would "applaud" the Gun Registry,if it realistically did a dam thing to stop the thugs and other criminals from thinking twice,before using a gun.
Thugs don't follow laws -.They will not register their hardware.
They will make sure that their hardware can not be traced.
How STUPID are we,to think that a Govt. registration,will stop any gun crime???
$2 BILLION wasted!!!
Pie in the sky utopian dreamfare,with reality a mile away!
All suckers,and sheeep on board???
C'mon.
Do we need Dr.Phil to advise us,on common sense?