IntenseDebate - Norm_d

14 years ago @ Macleans.ca - Angus Reid: Forget 'co... · 0 replies · +1 points

The upswing for the Conservatives is some what surprising given that, with the House in recess, there has been little news or activity to move the figures in favour of any party - less the current so called "controversies" of the funding for the Toronto Pride Parade and the "Harper and the Host" incident (both of which would have occurred too late to be included in these polling numbers). Of course the recent Strategic Counsel foreshadowed the Conservative lead.

What I find interesting is the polling results on stimulus spending in SK and MB. They are above the national average in their doubt about the effectiveness of stimulus spending and well above average in suggesting the money will be wasted. Can anyone tell me why these provinces are so far from the other regions on this issue? I would be very interested to know.

14 years ago @ Macleans.ca - Condolences ... · 0 replies · +2 points

I did not mean to imply that the issue is limited to Ottawa, as countless families across Canada and the globe are dealing with this everyday. Sadly, however, it sometimes necessary for a high profile arena (such as celebrities or politicians) to bring serious discussions to the public. I do not see why members of the House of Commons could not and should not take a public leadership role, especially if they too have a large number of members struggling with depression.

Despite what some people might think of politicians in Canada, they are all men and women who suffer from the same ailments as everyone else in this country. The House of Commons should do all it can to provide for the health of its members. An open discussion on mental health issues among MPs could not hurt in developing a health policy for its members.

14 years ago @ Macleans.ca - Condolences ... · 0 replies · +2 points

Well said James!

14 years ago @ Macleans.ca - Condolences ... · 5 replies · +1 points

I think we all wish you were right Kady. My deepest sympathies go out to Mr Batters' family, friends and colleagues. Regardless of what anyone may think of his political party or the policies he supported, his death is a loss. He, like most politicians, entered the political arena to make the country a better place.

I recall reading a story in the BBC last year discussing mental health issues among their MPs. If I recall it stated that about a fifth of MPs suffered from mental health issues but the majority feared discussing the issue because of the expected response from other MPs and the media.

Maybe the death of Mr Batters will lead to an investigation and willingness to discuss mental health problem in Ottawa. At least then some good would come from this tragic day.

14 years ago @ Macleans.ca - Mike Duffy has learned... · 0 replies · +2 points

I don't know if it is Viagara's worst pitch yet. In this era of declining tourism (thanks to swine flu, passport requirements, etc) it is possible they have teamed up with the Canadian Tourism Commission to launch a new international campaign. "Come to Canada - its surround by wood"

14 years ago @ Macleans.ca - The things he could te... · 0 replies · 0 points

Harper could give some great lessons on softening a hard image also. He could start with the importance of wearing blue sweaters and always having kittens on hand for photo ops (plus they make nice light snacks should the Premier of Ontario visit).

It also needs to be asked - does Harper go on before or after Elniski gives the kids his life advice.

14 years ago @ Macleans.ca - Step away from the cen... · 0 replies · +1 points

The votes are already electronically recorded on the Hansard - having MPs simply push a button would not change that. If you look at the Hansard for June 19th (search for divisions) you will see how they are currently recorded.

http://www2.parl.gc.ca/HousePublications/Publicat...

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