Tuesday, December 2, 2008

How Harper can save himself

Much as I would like to see a Liberal-NDP coalition government go ahead, I believe Mr. Harper has one chance to save himself. Only one, and it's a longshot, but here goes:

Mr. Prime Minister, please go on live television and admit you were wrong not to introduce a stimulus package at this time. Admit you were wrong about public financing, public service collective bargaining and pay equity. Admit you were wrong to question the patriotism of your opponents. And, most of all, just say the two words -- the only two words -- that could possibly save you: "I'm sorry."

If you've bothered to read any of a number of fantasy novel series over the years, what ultimately befalls the prime antagonist is his or her inability to feel or express any remorse. The problem is the process of remorse is enough to kill someone. Is that what you're afraid of, sir? That you might die in the process? Or your soul might die but you're still alive (even worse)?

You promised a more collaborative Parliament. You can be given a second chance if -- and only if -- you admit to hubris, before it gets to you; and go back to what you promised.

Otherwise, face the music like a man, and resign like a man rather than take the coward's way out with prorogation or dissolution.

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4 comments:

Oxford County Liberals said...

Not good enough, Robert. It's way past an apology now.. particularly after the disgraceful display in QP.

JCKelan said...

The PQ likes this coalition that you are forming with their separatist cousins. Doesn’t this cause you concern? If it’s good for the separatists, is it good for Canada?

Is this your legacy?

Think again!

JC Kelan

PQ says Quebec can be 'winner' under new coalition

Updated Tue. Dec. 2 2008 7:54 AM ET
The Canadian Press

MONTREAL -- Parti Quebecois Leader Pauline Marois is applauding the possibility Quebec could emerge as a winner and "get things" from Ottawa under a new coalition federal government.

Marois suggested on Monday the participation of her party's federal cousin - the sovereigntist Bloc Quebecois - in governing Canada might result in gains for Quebec.

She offered little indication of what benefits she envisioned but she has lambasted Liberal Premier Jean Charest in recent days for allegedly remaining silent while Ottawa revised its equalization formula in a way that would slash transfer payments to Quebec by $1 billion.

She appeared to be referring to that equalization change as she replied to a question about the coalition deal during a provincial election campaign stop Monday. But Marois stopped in mid-sentence, perhaps aware of the political sensitivity surrounding the issue.
"If the Bloc Quebecois can get things for Quebec while Jean Charest is on his knees. . ." Marois said, her voice trailing off.

"It's Quebec that will come out the winner," she continued.

BlastFurnace said...

Well, that's just it actually, Scott. After the way he acted today -- and I totally agree it was a disgrace -- it's more than obvious he's not going to apologize. He can't now which is why he deserves to go down. And even if he did, Canadians won't accept it.

BlastFurnace said...

As for JCK, if my memory serves, all the provinces, not just Québec, benefit when there's someone willing to go to bat for provincial interests.

As I self-commented in a prior post, there is only an oath to the Queen, not to Canada. And Nova Soctia still has a unilateral declaration of independence on its books -- how come no one complains about that?