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source1_29717540_88

Shilling for GMOs again! The problem with GMOs is not that they are new or hybrid but that they are transgenic (involving cross species modifications; mixing a salmon with a tomato) and nobody knows the long-term consequences on human health, though we do see some shocking impact on human health in the US because of GM corn etc. Africa's problem is not lack of food or poor environment (the continent is vast and mostly green and fecund), it is social, cultural and over-dependence on aid and hand-outs, rather than building the infrastructure and markets to deliver already existing food sources to consumers. Peddling GMO seeds will not change these facts. Greens are right that intensive farming is destroying the land, along with over-population. The world would be a better place with a smaller population and with less dependence on one or two 'super crops' (corn, wheat, rice) and a greater diversity in the foods we eat, while keeping them local.

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Shilling for GMOs again ! The problem with GMOs is not that they are new or hybrid but that they are transgenic ( involving cross species modifications ; mixing a salmon with a tomato ) and nobody knows the long-term consequences on human health , though we do see some shocking impact on human health in the US because of GM corn etc . Africas problem is not lack of food or poor environment ( the continent is vast and mostly green and fecund ) , it is social , cultural and over-dependence on aid and hand-outs , rather than building the infrastructure and markets to deliver already existing food sources to consumers . Peddling GMO seeds will not change these facts . Greens are right that intensive farming is destroying the land , along with over-population . The world would be a better place with a smaller population and with less dependence on one or two super crops ( corn , wheat , rice ) and a greater diversity in the foods we eat , while keeping them local .

source2_29287461_41

I think that what many of you are missing is that up till now Trump is only competing in the Republican Primary... which has some of the most right wing people voting in them. Republicans make up about 25% of the electorate, and he is lucky if up till now he gets 40% of that. As for this laughable meme running that democrats are supporting him, yeah right... I dont think so. In a general election, Trumps vote is very limited. Never forget that most of what Trump is...is media hype.

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I think that what many of you are missing is that up till now Trump is only competing in the Republican Primary ... which has some of the most right wing people voting in them . Republicans make up about 25 % of the electorate , and he is lucky if up till now he gets 40 % of that . As for this laughable meme running that democrats are supporting him , yeah right ... I dont think so . In a general election , Trumps vote is very limited . Never forget that most of what Trump is ... is media hype .

source1_29287461_103

Everybody's trying to turn this thing into a Wall st. vs. Main St. fight. In my view, it's Beltway vs. independent. The reason Trump appeals to so many Republicans is that they're fed up with Washington - especially the Republicans there who target, obstruct and shut down government whenever they feel like it, refusing anything bipartisan. In other words, it's the Republican party that created this monster and now, desperately, they're trying to deal with it.

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Everybodys trying to turn this thing into a Wall st. vs. Main St. fight . In my view , its Beltway vs. independent . The reason Trump appeals to so many Republicans is that theyre fed up with Washington - especially the Republicans there who target , obstruct and shut down government whenever they feel like it , refusing anything bipartisan . In other words , its the Republican party that created this monster and now , desperately , theyre trying to deal with it .

source1_29287461_109

I disagree with your statement of 'culture of consensus and compromise' just look at Mitch McConnell, GOP leader in the senate. I think part of the anger arises because Congress is really a ' Do Nothing'. I am still waiting for the shallow US press to start attacking Senate and House leaders as the root cause!

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I disagree with your statement of culture of consensus and compromise just look at Mitch McConnell , GOP leader in the senate . I think part of the anger arises because Congress is really a Do Nothing . I am still waiting for the shallow US press to start attacking Senate and House leaders as the root cause !

source1_29287461_168

The gravy train would be over if Trumps gets in and that's what the establishment is scared of. But lets ask a serious question. Is the US Superpower on the way up or in a downfall? I think it's pretty hard to argue to say that they are not falling. So, should they stick with the same (pork barrelling, special interests, back room deals etc.) or try something completely different. If I were American I would vote for real change. On their current path it's all downhill from here and we will follow.

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The gravy train would be over if Trumps gets in and thats what the establishment is scared of . But lets ask a serious question . Is the US Superpower on the way up or in a downfall ? I think its pretty hard to argue to say that they are not falling . So , should they stick with the same ( pork barrelling , special interests , back room deals etc . ) or try something completely different . If I were American I would vote for real change . On their current path its all downhill from here and we will follow .

source1_25836587_113

Great article. It's terrible, but I don't want any of them to win this time around. All three are terrible choices in their own unique way.

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Great article . Its terrible , but I dont want any of them to win this time around . All three are terrible choices in their own unique way .

source1_25836587_119

Harper did do one class act... He gave jack Layton a state funeral, whether deserved or not. He should have praised Flora MacDonald and attended her funeral. Some of his beliefs are, I think, a reaction to the Liberal Party arrogance that they are the sole arbiters of what Canadian values are and what our country stands for in the world. This time , I will not be giving the Conservatives my vote but don't know who will.

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Harper did do one class act ... He gave jack Layton a state funeral , whether deserved or not . He should have praised Flora MacDonald and attended her funeral . Some of his beliefs are , I think , a reaction to the Liberal Party arrogance that they are the sole arbiters of what Canadian values are and what our country stands for in the world . This time , I will not be giving the Conservatives my vote but dont know who will .

source1_25836587_128

As a life long Tory, I am puzzled at the partisan nature of my own party. There is no longer an alternative on the right (unlike the dark days of the mid 90's) so why the party needs to tack right is beyond me, we have those votes. This isn't all one way, I think the middle ground and art of compromise have been lost by both sides. Civil discourse has been cast aside; witness the ugly comments in the G&M posts concerning Harper; you may disagree with him but he actually isn't responsible for the lousy summer weather or the slow traffic on the way home last night. The tone of politics has gone from discourse to street fight; I do miss the sharp yet civil exchanges of the past.

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As a life long Tory , I am puzzled at the partisan nature of my own party . There is no longer an alternative on the right ( unlike the dark days of the mid 90s ) so why the party needs to tack right is beyond me , we have those votes . This isnt all one way , I think the middle ground and art of compromise have been lost by both sides . Civil discourse has been cast aside ; witness the ugly comments in the G & M posts concerning Harper ; you may disagree with him but he actually isnt responsible for the lousy summer weather or the slow traffic on the way home last night . The tone of politics has gone from discourse to street fight ; I do miss the sharp yet civil exchanges of the past .

source1_14612526_24

Seems to me that this article is just more impetus to legalize and regulate marijuana like we do cigarettes. If this were the case, those with medical symptoms (or not) could buy it and experience the relief (or not) and the government could collect their taxes, etc., etc. Unscrupulous medical sorts wouldn't be tempted or able to perpetrate the fraud mentioned in the article. I'm not a doctor so I can't (and won't even try) to speak to the benefits of mj in a medical context. I do have a close friend whose daughter uses it on a medical authorization and it helps, according to her. The latest Harper plan would be fine if mj were part of the standard provincial drug formulary, but it isn't. So for those of the afflicted who are helped my mj, what do they do when the cost becomes prohibitive because it's not covered by pharmacare? Many unanswered questions, and this article provides precisely 'zero' insight. Thanks for allowing me to rant.

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Seems to me that this article is just more impetus to legalize and regulate marijuana like we do cigarettes . If this were the case , those with medical symptoms ( or not ) could buy it and experience the relief ( or not ) and the government could collect their taxes , etc. , etc . Unscrupulous medical sorts wouldnt be tempted or able to perpetrate the fraud mentioned in the article . Im not a doctor so I cant ( and wont even try ) to speak to the benefits of mj in a medical context . I do have a close friend whose daughter uses it on a medical authorization and it helps , according to her . The latest Harper plan would be fine if mj were part of the standard provincial drug formulary , but it isnt . So for those of the afflicted who are helped my mj , what do they do when the cost becomes prohibitive because its not covered by pharmacare ? Many unanswered questions , and this article provides precisely zero insight . Thanks for allowing me to rant .

source1_12468271_92

The problem with this editorial is that is factually incorrect. Banking and cashing out are two different issues. Banking sick days is not uncommon, nor is it an problem. That an employee doesn't use much sick time and winds up with a significant bank to guard against serious illness is a good thing. What isn't a good thing is a cash out provision on retirement/termination for any form of sick leave. That is the benefit that Ottawa (and all employers who have agreed to it in the past) should target. The theory is that by banking sick days for a future cash benefit, sick leave will be reduced. It doesn't work. The evidence is that it causes no long term material impact to sick leave usage. More problematic is that it is an unfunded liability (a sick day earned in 2001 at 2001 dollars will be paid in the future at a future wage rate). My opinion is that unionized employers get the collective agreement they deserve. They bargained an idiotic provision (banking sick days for payout) it is up to them at the table to bargain it out. If they can't, hire better bargainers.

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The problem with this editorial is that is factually incorrect . Banking and cashing out are two different issues . Banking sick days is not uncommon , nor is it an problem . That an employee doesnt use much sick time and winds up with a significant bank to guard against serious illness is a good thing . What isnt a good thing is a cash out provision on retirement/termination for any form of sick leave . That is the benefit that Ottawa ( and all employers who have agreed to it in the past ) should target . The theory is that by banking sick days for a future cash benefit , sick leave will be reduced . It doesnt work . The evidence is that it causes no long term material impact to sick leave usage . More problematic is that it is an unfunded liability ( a sick day earned in 2001 at 2001 dollars will be paid in the future at a future wage rate ) . My opinion is that unionized employers get the collective agreement they deserve . They bargained an idiotic provision ( banking sick days for payout ) it is up to them at the table to bargain it out . If they cant , hire better bargainers .

source1_12468271_3

Again an Editorial in support of Mr.Clement. After reading it I find that the Editorial Board of G&M has little understanding of the issue at is stands in the Federal Government. Sick days is not a holiday or another vacation pay. Absenteeism in the Federal Public Service does not happen by accident or because employees are lazy. The stress level created by cut backs and negative messaging by people like Tony Clement creates a poisoned atmosphere in the work place. Wish the Editorial Board of the G&M would be better informed before applauding every move by the Harper Government.

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Again an Editorial in support of Mr.Clement . After reading it I find that the Editorial Board of G & M has little understanding of the issue at is stands in the Federal Government . Sick days is not a holiday or another vacation pay . Absenteeism in the Federal Public Service does not happen by accident or because employees are lazy . The stress level created by cut backs and negative messaging by people like Tony Clement creates a poisoned atmosphere in the work place . Wish the Editorial Board of the G & M would be better informed before applauding every move by the Harper Government .

source1_32373808_23

If you deny the evolutionary biological mandate of men and women, spout 'equality' at every street corner of social policy, and deny the matter of responsibility and consequences what did we expect ? In an age when 'Everybody Passes', when Discovery Math is considered an academic achievement, when Critical Thinking and Innovation is merely recycled headline material and the sheeple line up to support the likes of Trump ( we have our own Canadian equivalents ) this might be judged a matter of abject failure of society. These days if one succeeds by hard work, if you contribute to society, pay taxes, and - God help you - get 'rich' or take responsibility for the consequences of your actions you are relegated to media oblivion. If on the other hand you appear a vacuous celebrity or political poseur consider yourself head line fodder electable by the sheeple voters.

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If you deny the evolutionary biological mandate of men and women , spout equality at every street corner of social policy , and deny the matter of responsibility and consequences what did we expect ? In an age when Everybody Passes , when Discovery Math is considered an academic achievement , when Critical Thinking and Innovation is merely recycled headline material and the sheeple line up to support the likes of Trump ( we have our own Canadian equivalents ) this might be judged a matter of abject failure of society . These days if one succeeds by hard work , if you contribute to society , pay taxes , and - God help you - get rich or take responsibility for the consequences of your actions you are relegated to media oblivion . If on the other hand you appear a vacuous celebrity or political poseur consider yourself head line fodder electable by the sheeple voters .

source1_32373808_26

I don't think Hillary gives a hoot about men in (or out) of the workforce. A vote for Hillary is likely a vote for the status quo in the job market. Trump, maybe gives a hoot about jobs, at least if you believe the rhetoric. Bringing back jobs seems to be Trump's most persistent theme and bringing back jobs would require radical action which Trump seems prepared to take.

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I dont think Hillary gives a hoot about men in ( or out ) of the workforce . A vote for Hillary is likely a vote for the status quo in the job market . Trump , maybe gives a hoot about jobs , at least if you believe the rhetoric . Bringing back jobs seems to be Trumps most persistent theme and bringing back jobs would require radical action which Trump seems prepared to take .

source1_32373808_5

Liberalism has many victories. Wente identifies a few. From here on in, the election campaign will by 90% about Trump's attitudes toward women. That simply makes it easier to avoid serious policy discussion, which the media had already been extremely successful in avoiding. The two policy areas which created the phenomenon of political Trumpism were that of illegal immigration (TRUMP HATES BROWN PEOPLE!!!) and the export of decent jobs, beggaring an entire class of people, both white and (probably more so) black (TRUMP WOULD DESTROY THE WORLD ECONOMY!!!) With those pesky items safely swept beneath the stage of Trump the Groper, we can all relax now. Hillary and liberalism will win in a walk. If the shiftless working class types act out, we can imprison them and give them meds.

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Liberalism has many victories . Wente identifies a few . From here on in , the election campaign will by 90 % about Trumps attitudes toward women . That simply makes it easier to avoid serious policy discussion , which the media had already been extremely successful in avoiding . The two policy areas which created the phenomenon of political Trumpism were that of illegal immigration ( TRUMP HATES BROWN PEOPLE ! ! ! ) and the export of decent jobs , beggaring an entire class of people , both white and ( probably more so ) black ( TRUMP WOULD DESTROY THE WORLD ECONOMY ! ! ! ) With those pesky items safely swept beneath the stage of Trump the Groper , we can all relax now . Hillary and liberalism will win in a walk . If the shiftless working class types act out , we can imprison them and give them meds .

source1_31199281_33

People keep claiming that Hillary is not a criminal! The head of the FBI listed her criminal acts in great detail before deciding not to recommend prosecution. Why? Here's an interesting theory - to have prosecuted her on the emails might have given her the opportunity to take down a whole bunch of people with her, including all those who knew she had a private server as accessories. When Comey was asked why he didn't investigate her lying to Congress, another criminal act, he said 'I wasn't asked to!' Well, he's been asked now. This is a much cleaner way to take her down, if they wish to do so.

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People keep claiming that Hillary is not a criminal ! The head of the FBI listed her criminal acts in great detail before deciding not to recommend prosecution . Why ? Heres an interesting theory - to have prosecuted her on the emails might have given her the opportunity to take down a whole bunch of people with her , including all those who knew she had a private server as accessories . When Comey was asked why he didnt investigate her lying to Congress , another criminal act , he said I wasnt asked to ! Well , hes been asked now . This is a much cleaner way to take her down , if they wish to do so .

source1_31199281_15

Why should courting favour with assorted poorly informed opinion poll respondents around the globe the be all and end all of American foreign policy? The question American voters will and should ask is: 'Will the USA be a better, safer more prosperous place with Clinton or Trump?'The quickly unravelling social fabric of many European countries will demonstrate to Americans that open borders are dangerous. All Trump needs to do is to connect the dots between Hillary and the suddenly extremely unpopular Frau Merkel's immigration policies.

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Why should courting favour with assorted poorly informed opinion poll respondents around the globe the be all and end all of American foreign policy ? The question American voters will and should ask is : Will the USA be a better , safer more prosperous place with Clinton or Trump ? The quickly unravelling social fabric of many European countries will demonstrate to Americans that open borders are dangerous . All Trump needs to do is to connect the dots between Hillary and the suddenly extremely unpopular Frau Merkels immigration policies .

source1_32655412_4

When speaking with Americans on the popularity of Trump I see this as the Brexit vote of the USA. There is widespread distain in the US for a east coast Washington DC out of touch and full of career politicians just like Brussels and the EU was hated in the U.K. Even when portions of major cities in the U.K. Voting Yes on Brexit was a shock to journalists and political analysts I don't think people get this. Since 2008 the USA has had an incredible turn around from a recession that was hard and crippling to the average American and this was done with little or no help from Washington. It is pay back time and although Obama vied for Change it did not trickle down to Main Street. Hillary is viewed by many as more of the status quo and she is not Obama.

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When speaking with Americans on the popularity of Trump I see this as the Brexit vote of the USA . There is widespread distain in the US for a east coast Washington DC out of touch and full of career politicians just like Brussels and the EU was hated in the U.K . Even when portions of major cities in the U.K. Voting Yes on Brexit was a shock to journalists and political analysts I dont think people get this . Since 2008 the USA has had an incredible turn around from a recession that was hard and crippling to the average American and this was done with little or no help from Washington . It is pay back time and although Obama vied for Change it did not trickle down to Main Street . Hillary is viewed by many as more of the status quo and she is not Obama .

source1_32655412_73

One of the real head-scratchers of this election is how millions of uneducated Americans of the lower socio-economic strata somehow identify with a rich privileged businessman who scorns and mocks their very existence. As if they somehow believe Trump would improve their lot in life! Although that same group of Americans have a long history of voting against their own interests. Guess that's what a lack of education critical thinking skills does.

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One of the real head-scratchers of this election is how millions of uneducated Americans of the lower socio-economic strata somehow identify with a rich privileged businessman who scorns and mocks their very existence . As if they somehow believe Trump would improve their lot in life ! Although that same group of Americans have a long history of voting against their own interests . Guess thats what a lack of education critical thinking skills does .

source1_32655412_185

It appears that Trump supporters think that editorials taking a passionate stand for or against a candidate is somehow novel. Their delicate sensibilities would be overwhelmed by the rhetoric used in 19th century editorials in Canada, Britain and the US regarding candidates the editor did not approve of. The second novelty, for them, is commenting on political events in other countries. Again, that is standard practice on events with international repercussions. And lastly, offering an editorial opinion is not interference in the political process at the domestic or international level. The only novel editorial I've seen in the Globe in recent years is that bizzarro world piece endorsing the Tories without Harper. But they've been ridiculed for that nearly enough by now.

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It appears that Trump supporters think that editorials taking a passionate stand for or against a candidate is somehow novel . Their delicate sensibilities would be overwhelmed by the rhetoric used in 19th century editorials in Canada , Britain and the US regarding candidates the editor did not approve of . The second novelty , for them , is commenting on political events in other countries . Again , that is standard practice on events with international repercussions . And lastly , offering an editorial opinion is not interference in the political process at the domestic or international level . The only novel editorial Ive seen in the Globe in recent years is that bizzarro world piece endorsing the Tories without Harper . But theyve been ridiculed for that nearly enough by now .

source1_27307063_83

A tad over the top rhetoric: 'On the contrary, they will see Canada as a weaker, more vulnerable prey.'We have little to fear from Daesh, and to suggest that we are somehow more vulnerable prey is specious. A strong argument has been made that Canadians are actually less likely to experience guerilla war tactics when the jets are withdrawn. Mme. Gagon has clearly missed the mark in this opinion piece.

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A tad over the top rhetoric : On the contrary , they will see Canada as a weaker , more vulnerable prey.We have little to fear from Daesh , and to suggest that we are somehow more vulnerable prey is specious . A strong argument has been made that Canadians are actually less likely to experience guerilla war tactics when the jets are withdrawn . Mme . Gagon has clearly missed the mark in this opinion piece .

source1_27307063_104

I'm not sure that I see Ms. Gangnon's logic: She writes 'Canada will keep part of its commitment, notably by focusing on training more local combatants; the sad irony is that these military advisers, working near combat zones, will be more at risk than fighter-jet pilots.'And then immediately after: 'Islamic State fighters will not thank Canada for stopping the bombings. On the contrary, they will see Canada as a weaker, more vulnerable prey.'If Canada dismisses a mostly-ineffectual strategy for one that is both (presumably) more effective AND closer to 'the action', would this not constitute a sign of bravery and determination? As an expat living in the Middle East, I can assure you that Canadian jets won't be missed.

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Im not sure that I see Ms. Gangnons logic : She writes Canada will keep part of its commitment , notably by focusing on training more local combatants ; the sad irony is that these military advisers , working near combat zones , will be more at risk than fighter-jet pilots.And then immediately after : Islamic State fighters will not thank Canada for stopping the bombings . On the contrary , they will see Canada as a weaker , more vulnerable prey.If Canada dismisses a mostly-ineffectual strategy for one that is both ( presumably ) more effective AND closer to the action , would this not constitute a sign of bravery and determination ? As an expat living in the Middle East , I can assure you that Canadian jets wont be missed .

source1_27307063_60

Really, you brought in Putin to convince Trudeau to keep the CF18 in combat? lol. The guy who just bombed the NATO-backed Syrian opposition groups? The only reason that Putin decidedly to join France and US now is because he realized that he just opened up the hornet nest. He did not want the Russians to be the only ISIS main target. He wanted to shift the ISIS focus away from Russians to NATO and US. Only Conservative can fall for Putin's tricks. lolMajority of Canadians just voted to end the CF18 combat mission in the Middle East by electing Trudeau. Did you forget that? Military experts has been emphasizing that the war against ISIS can not be won by air bombing alone. It needs more ground force actions. What better contribution than providing more training for the Kurdish to fight ISIS on the ground. Even France and the US acknowledged that is the important contribution that Canada can make to this fight. Mr. Trudeau can focus our resources on helping the refugees resettlement. Remember the people who are being chased and killed by Assad, and ISIS? Nice try with the Conservative talking points!

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Really , you brought in Putin to convince Trudeau to keep the CF18 in combat ? lol . The guy who just bombed the NATO-backed Syrian opposition groups ? The only reason that Putin decidedly to join France and US now is because he realized that he just opened up the hornet nest . He did not want the Russians to be the only ISIS main target . He wanted to shift the ISIS focus away from Russians to NATO and US . Only Conservative can fall for Putins tricks . lolMajority of Canadians just voted to end the CF18 combat mission in the Middle East by electing Trudeau . Did you forget that ? Military experts has been emphasizing that the war against ISIS can not be won by air bombing alone . It needs more ground force actions . What better contribution than providing more training for the Kurdish to fight ISIS on the ground . Even France and the US acknowledged that is the important contribution that Canada can make to this fight . Mr. Trudeau can focus our resources on helping the refugees resettlement . Remember the people who are being chased and killed by Assad , and ISIS ? Nice try with the Conservative talking points !

source2_31520824_150

I couldn't agree more. Because of this uproar, the PM has asked his ministers to double up in university dorm rooms at their current retreat. This is nonsense and will discourage 'normal' people from ever wanting to consider public service. These people are running the government of a G7 country! No executive in the private sector would ever accept these petty, stupid rules. The minister apologized and is reimbursing the gov't. Let it go. I did not vote Liberal but this is unfair criticism.

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I couldnt agree more . Because of this uproar , the PM has asked his ministers to double up in university dorm rooms at their current retreat . This is nonsense and will discourage normal people from ever wanting to consider public service . These people are running the government of a G7 country ! No executive in the private sector would ever accept these petty , stupid rules . The minister apologized and is reimbursing the govt . Let it go . I did not vote Liberal but this is unfair criticism .

source1_32604218_123

The recent letter James Comey, the F.B.I. director, sent to Congress was not only outrageous but likely illegal under the Hatch Act. Mr. Comey apparently had no evidence suggesting any wrongdoing by Hillary Clinton; he violated longstanding rules about commenting on politically sensitive investigations close to an election; and he did so despite being warned by other officials that what he was doing was wrong in every respect. James Comey’s motive — as a stalwart Republican — can be construed as none other than to influence a close election and are the kind of things one would normally see in a Banana Republic, and not the world’s standard-bearer of democracy.

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The recent letter James Comey , the F.B.I . director , sent to Congress was not only outrageous but likely illegal under the Hatch Act . Mr. Comey apparently had no evidence suggesting any wrongdoing by Hillary Clinton ; he violated longstanding rules about commenting on politically sensitive investigations close to an election ; and he did so despite being warned by other officials that what he was doing was wrong in every respect . James Comey ’ s motive — as a stalwart Republican — can be construed as none other than to influence a close election and are the kind of things one would normally see in a Banana Republic , and not the world ’ s standard-bearer of democracy .

source1_32604218_61

' By not remaining silent, he has violated a strict policy prohibiting Justice Department and FBI officials from releasing information that might unfairly affect voters’ perception of an election candidate.'I heard that Mr. Comey had promised to Congress that he would notify them if any more information became available. Are you suggesting that he withhold information that he promised? Did you interview anyone in Congress asking if they preferred that they were not told? Which is the most 'damning action'? -- publicizing a fact before an election, or suppressing it until after the election? Should the people know, or should they be kept ignorant until after they vote? How would Hillary answer that question?

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By not remaining silent , he has violated a strict policy prohibiting Justice Department and FBI officials from releasing information that might unfairly affect voters ’ perception of an election candidate.I heard that Mr. Comey had promised to Congress that he would notify them if any more information became available . Are you suggesting that he withhold information that he promised ? Did you interview anyone in Congress asking if they preferred that they were not told ? Which is the most damning action ? -- publicizing a fact before an election , or suppressing it until after the election ? Should the people know , or should they be kept ignorant until after they vote ? How would Hillary answer that question ?

source1_28225596_118

'This was the route taken by U.S. Democrats when they chose Barack Obama as their presidential candidate, after years of losing to the Republicans under George W. Bush. It is the route taken by Canadian Liberals in putting forward Justin Trudeau after two false starts down “the-leader-is-the-whole-answer” road with Stéphane Dion and Michael Ignatieff.'What a load of manure! Dion and Ingatieff were ok leaders. What they couldn't withstand was the barrage of negative advertising that was funded by the Cons, well in advance of the elections and throughout the elections. By the time Justin came around the strategy was all too clear and failed as a result. Governments aren't voted into office, they are voted out. That said, the option has to be seen as palatable. I agree that in order to be re-elected the Cons must look closely at who they are what they really stand for. This includes Social values, something I noticed was not clearly included on your list. In the past the Cons were electable because they were Fiscally conservative and socially liberal. They catered to 'small c' Conservatives. This no longer appears to be the case. I am a small c Conservative. I'll have no interest in this party unless they revisit their policies.

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This was the route taken by U.S. Democrats when they chose Barack Obama as their presidential candidate , after years of losing to the Republicans under George W. Bush . It is the route taken by Canadian Liberals in putting forward Justin Trudeau after two false starts down “ the-leader-is-the-whole-answer ” road with Stéphane Dion and Michael Ignatieff.What a load of manure ! Dion and Ingatieff were ok leaders . What they couldnt withstand was the barrage of negative advertising that was funded by the Cons , well in advance of the elections and throughout the elections . By the time Justin came around the strategy was all too clear and failed as a result . Governments arent voted into office , they are voted out . That said , the option has to be seen as palatable . I agree that in order to be re-elected the Cons must look closely at who they are what they really stand for . This includes Social values , something I noticed was not clearly included on your list . In the past the Cons were electable because they were Fiscally conservative and socially liberal . They catered to small c Conservatives . This no longer appears to be the case . I am a small c Conservative . Ill have no interest in this party unless they revisit their policies .

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'Mr. Trudeau isn’t against pipelines. But he isn’t exactly for them, either. What he’s for is doing the right thing. Unlike the ancien régime, he is determined to obtain what’s called a social licence. This means that he will bring everyone to the table and listen to their views, and that all decisions will be based on facts and evidence. “Getting our resources to market … means doing it responsibly for communities, for indigenous peoples and for the environment,” Mr. Trudeau says. Who could disagree with that?'I disagree because its an impossible subject to achieve any consensus. If there is legal grounds for a pipe line, build it and protect it. Thats it, talking to crying babies is impossible.

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Mr. Trudeau isn ’ t against pipelines . But he isn ’ t exactly for them , either . What he ’ s for is doing the right thing . Unlike the ancien régime , he is determined to obtain what ’ s called a social licence . This means that he will bring everyone to the table and listen to their views , and that all decisions will be based on facts and evidence . “ Getting our resources to market … means doing it responsibly for communities , for indigenous peoples and for the environment , ” Mr. Trudeau says . Who could disagree with that ? I disagree because its an impossible subject to achieve any consensus . If there is legal grounds for a pipe line , build it and protect it . Thats it , talking to crying babies is impossible .

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Gender equality is one the major issue for the Québec Chart of Values. The Roc should wake up and take example on us. Stand up! Just think to all those young men and women who died in Afghanistan, believing they we're fighting for the right of women to have normal like, education, freedom. If we continue in this way, we will encourage muslims to spread up their values here as if they we're in Tunisia, Afghanistan, Saudi Arabia.

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Gender equality is one the major issue for the Québec Chart of Values . The Roc should wake up and take example on us . Stand up ! Just think to all those young men and women who died in Afghanistan , believing they were fighting for the right of women to have normal like , education , freedom . If we continue in this way , we will encourage muslims to spread up their values here as if they were in Tunisia , Afghanistan , Saudi Arabia .

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Segregation of the sexes was normal back in the school system in the 1950's. The rational was that contact was considered as causing an occasion for sin. As a result boys didn't associate with girls of the same religious belief so as not to sin. The result was socially ineptness and boys associated with and married girls outside their religion. The rule when it came to religion was don't ask don't tell. The parent became very concerned as the kids stopped going to religious service. There was no social activities like dances so the parents organized a dance, a farmer donated the use of his barn, because school buildings couldn't be used, and a band was hired, goodies were served all at no cost to the kids. Parents begged and pleaded with the kids to attend. The kids did attend for the benefit of the parents. It was a big flop and the kids avoided the second attempt. As a result 100's lost their faith, the very objective of segregation. Segregation was and still is a very evil practice.

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Segregation of the sexes was normal back in the school system in the 1950s . The rational was that contact was considered as causing an occasion for sin . As a result boys didnt associate with girls of the same religious belief so as not to sin . The result was socially ineptness and boys associated with and married girls outside their religion . The rule when it came to religion was dont ask dont tell . The parent became very concerned as the kids stopped going to religious service . There was no social activities like dances so the parents organized a dance , a farmer donated the use of his barn , because school buildings couldnt be used , and a band was hired , goodies were served all at no cost to the kids . Parents begged and pleaded with the kids to attend . The kids did attend for the benefit of the parents . It was a big flop and the kids avoided the second attempt . As a result 100s lost their faith , the very objective of segregation . Segregation was and still is a very evil practice .

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The country's been sold out from underneath us. Get used to it, nonsense like what happened in the karate class in Halifax and at York U will become the norm. Canadians used to work hard to come here, waiting in line, didn't jump to the front using (often) sketchy money from back home to buy property. We arrived broke, fifty, sixty, seventy years ago, expecting nothing but a society that won't place us in jail for our beliefs and will afford us a better quality of life. Immigrants come here now for money. Money, money, money, money, money, using the infrastructure previous generations put in place and wholly unwilling to fund it for the future. How many remittance offices were in southern European neighbourhoods in the 1960s? How many in Little Manila now? Darn shame to recognize that none of this matters to many new Canadians. They want exactly what they had back home, but they want it off our backs.

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The countrys been sold out from underneath us . Get used to it , nonsense like what happened in the karate class in Halifax and at York U will become the norm . Canadians used to work hard to come here , waiting in line , didnt jump to the front using ( often ) sketchy money from back home to buy property . We arrived broke , fifty , sixty , seventy years ago , expecting nothing but a society that wont place us in jail for our beliefs and will afford us a better quality of life . Immigrants come here now for money . Money , money , money , money , money , using the infrastructure previous generations put in place and wholly unwilling to fund it for the future . How many remittance offices were in southern European neighbourhoods in the 1960s ? How many in Little Manila now ? Darn shame to recognize that none of this matters to many new Canadians . They want exactly what they had back home , but they want it off our backs .

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Canada tries to be an evolved democracy, while allowing persons of all cultures and backgrounds to enter and live here. Most people from totalitarian regimes are happy to breathe the air of freedom, some carry vestiges of idealogies destructive to democratic principles. But, for example, it is legal to practice a religion, such as Buddhism without facing execution as one may in communist China. A woman may disobey her Muslim husband without being stoned to death, unless he first returns her to her country of origin first to have her executed for disobedience. Canada should be more unequivocal in defending human rights, the rights of women and children of all races, ethnicities, and religions, and the tenets of democracy. You move into this democratic country, you accept these evolved principles. If you try to force Wahabi fundamentalism on us, you may return to your country of origin. Leave us. Or, we could simply reverse the process and allow women to chastise or stone Muslim men at will, publicly, and see an epiphany.

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Canada tries to be an evolved democracy , while allowing persons of all cultures and backgrounds to enter and live here . Most people from totalitarian regimes are happy to breathe the air of freedom , some carry vestiges of idealogies destructive to democratic principles . But , for example , it is legal to practice a religion , such as Buddhism without facing execution as one may in communist China . A woman may disobey her Muslim husband without being stoned to death , unless he first returns her to her country of origin first to have her executed for disobedience . Canada should be more unequivocal in defending human rights , the rights of women and children of all races , ethnicities , and religions , and the tenets of democracy . You move into this democratic country , you accept these evolved principles . If you try to force Wahabi fundamentalism on us , you may return to your country of origin . Leave us . Or , we could simply reverse the process and allow women to chastise or stone Muslim men at will , publicly , and see an epiphany .

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Unfortunately the emotional immaturity displayed by Kenny, Harper, and their operatives is not an oddity, but a common psychological condition common to conservatives. They are like the kid in elementary school who believes that tattling on his classmates will endear him to the teacher. Like the kid who cheats at games played only for fun because he can't stand to lose, even though by doing it he is branded as a cheat and a loser. So it is with the Harper crowd, and thst is precisely why they must be kept from power ever again.

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Unfortunately the emotional immaturity displayed by Kenny , Harper , and their operatives is not an oddity , but a common psychological condition common to conservatives . They are like the kid in elementary school who believes that tattling on his classmates will endear him to the teacher . Like the kid who cheats at games played only for fun because he cant stand to lose , even though by doing it he is branded as a cheat and a loser . So it is with the Harper crowd , and thst is precisely why they must be kept from power ever again .

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Leitch says: “Screening potential immigrants for anti-Canadian values that include intolerance towards other religions, cultures and sexual orientations, violent and/or misogynist behaviour and/or a lack of acceptance of our Canadian tradition of personal and economic freedoms is a policy proposal that I feel very strongly about,”To date, the vast majority of Islamic states do not tolerate other religions, cultures, sexual orientations, or respect women's freedoms. If you have evidence otherwise, do share with us. If you are in denial, give this comment a downvote.

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Leitch says : “ Screening potential immigrants for anti-Canadian values that include intolerance towards other religions , cultures and sexual orientations , violent and/or misogynist behaviour and/or a lack of acceptance of our Canadian tradition of personal and economic freedoms is a policy proposal that I feel very strongly about , ” To date , the vast majority of Islamic states do not tolerate other religions , cultures , sexual orientations , or respect womens freedoms . If you have evidence otherwise , do share with us . If you are in denial , give this comment a downvote .

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The vast majority of people who wanted him step aside did so without insulting his weight or his lack of polish, or resorting to any other sort of personal attack. I hope his family finds footing in this time that is personally sad for them. But, during his time as mayor, he clearly needed to step aside and seek help. His repeated decisions not to leave - and his apologists - were the lead cause of the circus show that followed.

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The vast majority of people who wanted him step aside did so without insulting his weight or his lack of polish , or resorting to any other sort of personal attack . I hope his family finds footing in this time that is personally sad for them . But , during his time as mayor , he clearly needed to step aside and seek help . His repeated decisions not to leave - and his apologists - were the lead cause of the circus show that followed .

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The Liberals have come and gone in the public affection before. But I agree with Jeffrey that it is now different. Before, while the public might have accepted or rejected Liberal policies, at least the party had credibility. People might have rejected the Liberals at particular elections, but there was always the thought that they could be gone back to if the new people weren't up to the task. This credibility has now been lost (probably irrevocably) as a result of their numerous squandered chances, bad decisions, lack of policy and commitment, and weak leaders. At one time, we had parties with identifiable differences--the left, the right and the centre. The left and the right made good protest votes (and some would vote for them out of reflex or inability to think things through), but Canadians being what they are, the centre was the best long term bet for a lot of people. But now the centre doesn't hold much appeal. It means nothing and stands for nothing. The country has become polarized between the right and the left, and increasingly people are willing to take a stand rather than voting for the party that offers the least contentious choice. I have been a lifelong Liberal supporter, but cannot see myself ever voting for them again. The choice is between the NDP and the Cons.

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The Liberals have come and gone in the public affection before . But I agree with Jeffrey that it is now different . Before , while the public might have accepted or rejected Liberal policies , at least the party had credibility . People might have rejected the Liberals at particular elections , but there was always the thought that they could be gone back to if the new people werent up to the task . This credibility has now been lost ( probably irrevocably ) as a result of their numerous squandered chances , bad decisions , lack of policy and commitment , and weak leaders . At one time , we had parties with identifiable differences -- the left , the right and the centre . The left and the right made good protest votes ( and some would vote for them out of reflex or inability to think things through ) , but Canadians being what they are , the centre was the best long term bet for a lot of people . But now the centre doesnt hold much appeal . It means nothing and stands for nothing . The country has become polarized between the right and the left , and increasingly people are willing to take a stand rather than voting for the party that offers the least contentious choice . I have been a lifelong Liberal supporter , but can not see myself ever voting for them again . The choice is between the NDP and the Cons .

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Maybe, Canada's aging population and the under-sixty-fives' indifference to federal politics explains the decline of the Liberal Party. For decades, the Liberals preached entitlement as the reason for voting Liberal. These days, 'entitlement' is a nasty word among senior voters and not very popular with the few non-seniors who bother to vote. If the Liberals had stuck with a hard working politician like Bob Rae rather than the unproven son of a former populous PM, I believe their rating in the polls today would be in over 50% based on the Conservatives past record and the NDP's future promises. Instead, we have 3 main parties running neck and neck all all claiming entitlement to the middle ground of Canadian voters. My MP polls me 3 times a month to find out where that middle ground is. Shouldn't he be telling me what I'll be getting if I vote for him in October?

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Maybe , Canadas aging population and the under-sixty-fives indifference to federal politics explains the decline of the Liberal Party . For decades , the Liberals preached entitlement as the reason for voting Liberal . These days , entitlement is a nasty word among senior voters and not very popular with the few non-seniors who bother to vote . If the Liberals had stuck with a hard working politician like Bob Rae rather than the unproven son of a former populous PM , I believe their rating in the polls today would be in over 50 % based on the Conservatives past record and the NDPs future promises . Instead , we have 3 main parties running neck and neck all all claiming entitlement to the middle ground of Canadian voters . My MP polls me 3 times a month to find out where that middle ground is . Shouldnt he be telling me what Ill be getting if I vote for him in October ?

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fundamentalist religious viewpoints are what is destroying canada....and that fundamentalism sits well with anglicans, catholics, shikhs, hindus and islamists, all of which have been imported in droves to canada and who collectively even though they have different beliefs do all have fundamental religious foundations that focus on everything conservative

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fundamentalist religious viewpoints are what is destroying canada ... .and that fundamentalism sits well with anglicans , catholics , shikhs , hindus and islamists , all of which have been imported in droves to canada and who collectively even though they have different beliefs do all have fundamental religious foundations that focus on everything conservative

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Maybe it's an effect of the rabid, ideological partisanship that was introduced into Canadian politics by Reform's gobbling up of the discredited Progressive Conservatives under Harper. The right wing is better countered by a left wing than by a muddled middle that is never quite sure which direction it wants to be pulled in.Although I have to say, the muddled middle worked well enough for long enough, until the Harperites decided to change the rules of the Canadian game to be more like US-style politics.

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Maybe its an effect of the rabid , ideological partisanship that was introduced into Canadian politics by Reforms gobbling up of the discredited Progressive Conservatives under Harper . The right wing is better countered by a left wing than by a muddled middle that is never quite sure which direction it wants to be pulled in.Although I have to say , the muddled middle worked well enough for long enough , until the Harperites decided to change the rules of the Canadian game to be more like US-style politics .

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Harper well versed in the ethics of Evangelical Christianity. Where the likes of Benny Hinn pull in millions from the gullible , while he lives a lavish life in a seaside mansion, with a garage for 10 cars, and travels in a private jet; ply their trade all tax free. Like wise Harper sees no harm in utilizing tax revenue from the masses, which no one could question is there for the purpose of serving the general good of society, for his own personal gain and advancement. Perhaps instead of committing to biblical ethics, we should try committing to the secular version? Harpers ethical management of the economy? Not fit to govern.

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Harper well versed in the ethics of Evangelical Christianity . Where the likes of Benny Hinn pull in millions from the gullible , while he lives a lavish life in a seaside mansion , with a garage for 10 cars , and travels in a private jet ; ply their trade all tax free . Like wise Harper sees no harm in utilizing tax revenue from the masses , which no one could question is there for the purpose of serving the general good of society , for his own personal gain and advancement . Perhaps instead of committing to biblical ethics , we should try committing to the secular version ? Harpers ethical management of the economy ? Not fit to govern .

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Parents hovering over their kids while they push their way down a no-fun, flat-bottomed slide is a typical and painful sight these days when I recall my days of kids running around with abandon, no parents in sight. Symptomatic of these day as well is that kids are taught to be suspicious of strangers, which by osmosis means other kids (kids at parks usually stick with their friends, who made it a 'play date'. Which means many kids turn out to be foul, suspicious adults who act badly.

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Parents hovering over their kids while they push their way down a no-fun , flat-bottomed slide is a typical and painful sight these days when I recall my days of kids running around with abandon , no parents in sight . Symptomatic of these day as well is that kids are taught to be suspicious of strangers , which by osmosis means other kids ( kids at parks usually stick with their friends , who made it a play date . Which means many kids turn out to be foul , suspicious adults who act badly .

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These helicopter parents will pay for this to some degree. Either their kids will reach their teenage years and go wild making up for lost time. Children as young as 8 or 9 know when they are being held back from exploring and follow their friends and are forced to obey their parents. The other scenario is they may possibly grow up lacking self confidence and have problems socializing with other people. But the worst thing is they may pass it on to their children who will pay an even greater price in later years.

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These helicopter parents will pay for this to some degree . Either their kids will reach their teenage years and go wild making up for lost time . Children as young as 8 or 9 know when they are being held back from exploring and follow their friends and are forced to obey their parents . The other scenario is they may possibly grow up lacking self confidence and have problems socializing with other people . But the worst thing is they may pass it on to their children who will pay an even greater price in later years .

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What a joke. A nine year old isn't allowed in the park alone according to these police? When I was 9 years old I was baby sitting my younger sister and taking HER to the park with ME as her 'supervisor.' This nanny state that we live in has gone too far - it's no wonder people are turning out as real winners these days... they don't have a chance to learn any life skills because the nanny state makes parents hold their hand until they turn 18 years old, and then because they have been sheltered their entire lives they don't know what to do next. If this woman was arrested for allowing her girl to play in the park, imagine what the nanny state would do next if they found out that people spank their children for misbehaving... God forbid these children learn and respect for other people!

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What a joke . A nine year old isnt allowed in the park alone according to these police ? When I was 9 years old I was baby sitting my younger sister and taking HER to the park with ME as her supervisor . This nanny state that we live in has gone too far - its no wonder people are turning out as real winners these days ... they dont have a chance to learn any life skills because the nanny state makes parents hold their hand until they turn 18 years old , and then because they have been sheltered their entire lives they dont know what to do next . If this woman was arrested for allowing her girl to play in the park , imagine what the nanny state would do next if they found out that people spank their children for misbehaving ... God forbid these children learn and respect for other people !

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It seems that 80% of the time the parents are fishing for money, 99% of the time fishing for attention. It seems a lot of people are far too happy to try and lawyer up over a scraped knee. It has saddened me to see things like monkey bars removed completely and swings essentially cut down as to not pose any risk. Never mind cutting branches off of trees so kids can't climb trees. Or getting rid of all the chemicals in chemistry sets. But for the time being parents seem to be happy to go after what money and attention a booboo can provide.

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It seems that 80 % of the time the parents are fishing for money , 99 % of the time fishing for attention . It seems a lot of people are far too happy to try and lawyer up over a scraped knee . It has saddened me to see things like monkey bars removed completely and swings essentially cut down as to not pose any risk . Never mind cutting branches off of trees so kids cant climb trees . Or getting rid of all the chemicals in chemistry sets . But for the time being parents seem to be happy to go after what money and attention a booboo can provide .

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A very flawed piece, and one I saw coming after Amanda got all testy with a guest who was arguing against outsourcing on her show last night. Some observations:-Ontario to Alberta is not the same thing as Ontario to India. Someone living in Alberta is almost assured to spend most, if not all of their income within Canada (rare exceptions). Indians can spend their money wherever they wish half a world away.-We have one of the best university systems in the world, with 2 highly touted ones in the GTA (and another in there as well). I hardly see how this would make us less qualified to do a position over someone from India, who, with all due respect, have Cereal box diplomas that don't mean much over here.-Fails to acknowledge the concept that people are okay with outsourcing, but not okay with insourcing (bringing in TFWs) and firing Canadian workers to do so (the antithesis of the program. Obviously this piece was designed to calm people's anger about the dbag-ness of RBC, but from most of the comments I have read, people see through this weak argument. So...Nice try Amanda, but... FAIL!

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A very flawed piece , and one I saw coming after Amanda got all testy with a guest who was arguing against outsourcing on her show last night . Some observations : -Ontario to Alberta is not the same thing as Ontario to India . Someone living in Alberta is almost assured to spend most , if not all of their income within Canada ( rare exceptions ) . Indians can spend their money wherever they wish half a world away.-We have one of the best university systems in the world , with 2 highly touted ones in the GTA ( and another in there as well ) . I hardly see how this would make us less qualified to do a position over someone from India , who , with all due respect , have Cereal box diplomas that dont mean much over here.-Fails to acknowledge the concept that people are okay with outsourcing , but not okay with insourcing ( bringing in TFWs ) and firing Canadian workers to do so ( the antithesis of the program . Obviously this piece was designed to calm peoples anger about the dbag-ness of RBC , but from most of the comments I have read , people see through this weak argument . So ... Nice try Amanda , but ... FAIL !

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Let's see. I work for a bank for 25 years and then I'm dumped and replaced by a person coming to this country on an employer-arranged visa who will work for half of what I get and poses no pension liability to my employer. On top of that, I have to train my replacement, who bearly speaks the language. Let's worry about treating employees fairly, and outsource the government that set this scheme up.

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Lets see . I work for a bank for 25 years and then Im dumped and replaced by a person coming to this country on an employer-arranged visa who will work for half of what I get and poses no pension liability to my employer . On top of that , I have to train my replacement , who bearly speaks the language . Lets worry about treating employees fairly , and outsource the government that set this scheme up .

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I am really offended that Amanda said they are 'better'. I have been in the IT industry for over 12 years and have worked with many outsourcers. Yes some of their people are very good but others not so much. It really depends on the individuals involved. I have worked with individuals that picked up knowledge at an impressive rate and others that had great difficulty. Generalizing is what racists do..

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I am really offended that Amanda said they are better . I have been in the IT industry for over 12 years and have worked with many outsourcers . Yes some of their people are very good but others not so much . It really depends on the individuals involved . I have worked with individuals that picked up knowledge at an impressive rate and others that had great difficulty . Generalizing is what racists do..

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Too much of the Lang outsourcing position is devoid of real experience; as a public broadcaster CBC is not Pravda where propaganda was job#1; the discussion on capitalism is surely devoid of reality by Lang and Kevin 'money is the only thing' O'Leary is smiling! Just recently the NYT had a list of 100 American capitalist companies that do not repatriate profit earnings back to USA... Microsoft, General Electic, Apple, etc to be taxed. Result is that the near trillion in evaded taxes over a 10 year period is in reality the driver of needed revenue to diminish U.S debt levels. GE for example in US pays no fed taxes. We also have seen reports on the 60 remote off-shore havens to hide corporate and individual profits without taxes levied and the total = 20 to 27 TRILLION USD$ not taxed. It is the little people (99%) who pay while oligarchs escape a criminal hoist.

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Too much of the Lang outsourcing position is devoid of real experience ; as a public broadcaster CBC is not Pravda where propaganda was job # 1 ; the discussion on capitalism is surely devoid of reality by Lang and Kevin money is the only thing OLeary is smiling ! Just recently the NYT had a list of 100 American capitalist companies that do not repatriate profit earnings back to USA ... Microsoft , General Electic , Apple , etc to be taxed . Result is that the near trillion in evaded taxes over a 10 year period is in reality the driver of needed revenue to diminish U.S debt levels . GE for example in US pays no fed taxes . We also have seen reports on the 60 remote off-shore havens to hide corporate and individual profits without taxes levied and the total = 20 to 27 TRILLION USD $ not taxed . It is the little people ( 99 % ) who pay while oligarchs escape a criminal hoist .

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The point is, frankly, that Amanda Lang pretends to be a disinterested journalist - that's the impression that the reader gets, given Ms Lang's status here as a writer and given her position as the 'chief business correspondent' at the CBC. However, I think Ms Lang's bona fides as a journalist are called into serious question when one understands that the same Ms Lang is the keynote speaker at the upcoming CORE conference on April 23...www.core-outsourcing.org/events/event-directory/Conferenc2013/index.phpThose Globe readers who take the time to click on the link will discover that CORE is an organization that specializes in research and education into, you guessed it, OUTSOURCING... muddying the waters even more, this year's conference is actuallty being sponsored by, among others, I-Gate...She is getting paid by CORE at a rate of up to $20G a 'performance' according to 'Speaker Mix www/speakermix.com/amanda-lang This sounds like a 'serious' conflict of interest and a violation of journalistic ethics to me - Ms Lang should NEVER have commented on this issue given her position in respect of the subject matter she discusses above us here. If Ms Lang, or the Globe, or the CBC for that matter, would care to check, they can find the code of ethics here: www. caj.ca/?p=1776Liz West, Victoria

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The point is , frankly , that Amanda Lang pretends to be a disinterested journalist - thats the impression that the reader gets , given Ms Langs status here as a writer and given her position as the chief business correspondent at the CBC . However , I think Ms Langs bona fides as a journalist are called into serious question when one understands that the same Ms Lang is the keynote speaker at the upcoming CORE conference on April 23 ... www.core-outsourcing.org/events/event-directory/Conferenc2013/index.phpThose Globe readers who take the time to click on the link will discover that CORE is an organization that specializes in research and education into , you guessed it , OUTSOURCING ... muddying the waters even more , this years conference is actuallty being sponsored by , among others , I-Gate ... She is getting paid by CORE at a rate of up to $ 20G a performance according to Speaker Mix www/speakermix.com/amanda-lang This sounds like a serious conflict of interest and a violation of journalistic ethics to me - Ms Lang should NEVER have commented on this issue given her position in respect of the subject matter she discusses above us here . If Ms Lang , or the Globe , or the CBC for that matter , would care to check , they can find the code of ethics here : www . caj.ca/ ? p=1776Liz West , Victoria

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The arctic ocean is rapidly warming, creating a disturbance in our predictable weather patterns... We can't stop it - its a positive feedback loop.... I bet Miller doesn't know what that means....The basic problem is that our city is built on clay rich soil and is laced with underground streams and aquifers....Our city is paved over so run off is massiveOur sewers built in 1900 - 1950 are massively inadequate - designed for a tepid rain.. Hazel aside - this was a massive storm and we should expect more... Want to control it? Build bigger sewers, don't build basements, build storm retention ponds (No Lake Ontario isn't a pond... it helps).....the city should install backwater valves on every sewer connection in the city.... (don't leave it to our expense to do this)...it should be a code requirement... OR the city should subsidize them at 100% of the install cost deductible from YOUR property taxes... as would any other upgrades... Driveways should be turf not asphalt or concrete....ditches should NOT be filled in...Condo's should all have massive water holding tanks built in...(the 3 car underground garage is NOT a holding tank but that helps)....

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The arctic ocean is rapidly warming , creating a disturbance in our predictable weather patterns ... We cant stop it - its a positive feedback loop ... . I bet Miller doesnt know what that means ... .The basic problem is that our city is built on clay rich soil and is laced with underground streams and aquifers ... .Our city is paved over so run off is massiveOur sewers built in 1900 - 1950 are massively inadequate - designed for a tepid rain.. Hazel aside - this was a massive storm and we should expect more ... Want to control it ? Build bigger sewers , dont build basements , build storm retention ponds ( No Lake Ontario isnt a pond ... it helps ) ... ..the city should install backwater valves on every sewer connection in the city ... . ( dont leave it to our expense to do this ) ... it should be a code requirement ... OR the city should subsidize them at 100 % of the install cost deductible from YOUR property taxes ... as would any other upgrades ... Driveways should be turf not asphalt or concrete ... .ditches should NOT be filled in ... Condos should all have massive water holding tanks built in ... ( the 3 car underground garage is NOT a holding tank but that helps ) ... .

source1_27403291_49

Canadian Seniors who have worked and paid taxes all their lives are worth $550 a month. The 25,000 Muslim refugees that this new government is determined to get 'landed' before the next election are each worth $2500 a month plus medical. In Ontario, we have to wait so much longer to see a doctor. Who thinks this is all about politics? Are we suckers and did the nice hair and selfies influence our votes? Too bad for us. Too late.

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Canadian Seniors who have worked and paid taxes all their lives are worth $ 550 a month . The 25,000 Muslim refugees that this new government is determined to get landed before the next election are each worth $ 2500 a month plus medical . In Ontario , we have to wait so much longer to see a doctor . Who thinks this is all about politics ? Are we suckers and did the nice hair and selfies influence our votes ? Too bad for us . Too late .

source1_27403291_29

Easy to say this from your perch in the elite heights of the Globe and Mail. Maybe think more about the people living in those camps, where will they be better off? If the party you had endorsed had actually been bringing Syrian refugees in reasonable numbers there wouldn't be the same pressure to catchup. So instead of publishing columns by the chief culprit it that train wreck of a policy how about asking how we can make it happen faster. We owe to the people living in camps to bring them in expeditiously while cognizant of the security concerns.

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Easy to say this from your perch in the elite heights of the Globe and Mail . Maybe think more about the people living in those camps , where will they be better off ? If the party you had endorsed had actually been bringing Syrian refugees in reasonable numbers there wouldnt be the same pressure to catchup . So instead of publishing columns by the chief culprit it that train wreck of a policy how about asking how we can make it happen faster . We owe to the people living in camps to bring them in expeditiously while cognizant of the security concerns .

source1_16758865_11

Hearing Canada's Chief Electoral Officer share his views on these changes on CBC Radio's 'The House' this weekend made me fear for our democracy. He said that these changes do not represent the democratic values Canadians strive for, and he's right. Gagging him is a violation of all Canadians' rights. Shame on the Conservatives.

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Hearing Canadas Chief Electoral Officer share his views on these changes on CBC Radios The House this weekend made me fear for our democracy . He said that these changes do not represent the democratic values Canadians strive for , and hes right . Gagging him is a violation of all Canadians rights . Shame on the Conservatives .

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The French might want to consider cleaning up their act at home first. People from the Maghreb especially are discriminated against, suffer from poor living conditions and are generally considered as outsiders. There are still scars in the country from their colonial experiences, especially Algeria. There have been riots in several cities in the not too far distant past because of these problems. The result is several generations of unhappy and alienated people - perfect breeding ground for terrorist acts such as this. This is not to excuse a barbaric crime but to look a little deeper into the domestic situation. No amount of bombing in the Middle East will solve this.

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The French might want to consider cleaning up their act at home first . People from the Maghreb especially are discriminated against , suffer from poor living conditions and are generally considered as outsiders . There are still scars in the country from their colonial experiences , especially Algeria . There have been riots in several cities in the not too far distant past because of these problems . The result is several generations of unhappy and alienated people - perfect breeding ground for terrorist acts such as this . This is not to excuse a barbaric crime but to look a little deeper into the domestic situation . No amount of bombing in the Middle East will solve this .

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Is Obama going to commit hundreds of thousands of troops to an invasion (and occupation) of Syria? If his latest increase of US forces by 50 (!) SF is an indication of his desire to preside over a ground campaign I'd say no. If the US doesn't lead no one else in the west is going so talk of Article 5 is pointless. NATO is already at war with IS and stalwart allies like Canada are packing up. No loss really since Russia's come on board but the west has learned the lesson in Iraq and Afghanistan that it wants no part of occupying Muslim states. The cost and casualties would be vastly more than what IS could likely inflict if we just played defence while picking them off as they emerge from their holes.

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Is Obama going to commit hundreds of thousands of troops to an invasion ( and occupation ) of Syria ? If his latest increase of US forces by 50 ( ! ) SF is an indication of his desire to preside over a ground campaign Id say no . If the US doesnt lead no one else in the west is going so talk of Article 5 is pointless . NATO is already at war with IS and stalwart allies like Canada are packing up . No loss really since Russias come on board but the west has learned the lesson in Iraq and Afghanistan that it wants no part of occupying Muslim states . The cost and casualties would be vastly more than what IS could likely inflict if we just played defence while picking them off as they emerge from their holes .

source1_27264082_104

The ONLY hope for peace is to share the truth. Stop the propaganda. Only when western citizens realize what our nations have done to create the mess in the Middle East can they truly demand change. France has supported bombing Syria for years. The coalition just bombed a Syrian hospital. Innocent civilians. Our propaganda keeps the ignorant masses misinformed and is currently beating the war drum. Educate yourself. Learn what the west has done and is still doing in the region and imagine the shoe being on your foot. Then, informed, decide if you truly want peace.

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The ONLY hope for peace is to share the truth . Stop the propaganda . Only when western citizens realize what our nations have done to create the mess in the Middle East can they truly demand change . France has supported bombing Syria for years . The coalition just bombed a Syrian hospital . Innocent civilians . Our propaganda keeps the ignorant masses misinformed and is currently beating the war drum . Educate yourself . Learn what the west has done and is still doing in the region and imagine the shoe being on your foot . Then , informed , decide if you truly want peace .

source1_28705123_82

But Donald Trump is not an evangelical, and so is not a good example of intolerant religious people. In fact he is campaigning to keep potentially intolerant people out of the country. There's too much idle chatter about the death of liberalism in Europe and now America, all based on opinion polls. Recently pundits were predicting that the National Front in France were the sign of the death of liberal democracy. That party went on to get creamed in the election.

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But Donald Trump is not an evangelical , and so is not a good example of intolerant religious people . In fact he is campaigning to keep potentially intolerant people out of the country . Theres too much idle chatter about the death of liberalism in Europe and now America , all based on opinion polls . Recently pundits were predicting that the National Front in France were the sign of the death of liberal democracy . That party went on to get creamed in the election .

source1_17357856_197

The aftermath of a successful vote for Quebec separation would make the rest of Canada un-governable.The Opposition parties will blame the then current federal governing party (NDP, Liberal, or Conservative) for not having done enough to prevent Quebec from separating. Quebec's big surprise will be that the rest of Canada will not accept their definition of Sovereignty Association.

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The aftermath of a successful vote for Quebec separation would make the rest of Canada un-governable.The Opposition parties will blame the then current federal governing party ( NDP , Liberal , or Conservative ) for not having done enough to prevent Quebec from separating . Quebecs big surprise will be that the rest of Canada will not accept their definition of Sovereignty Association .

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Why is it so hard for cons to realize that no credible journalist will sing the praises of bad and backwards policies that harm the country's people, environment, economy and reputation. Would you write a positive article about the NDP's minimum wage proposal or their child care plan? No. It would be a negative article every time and indeed there are some - just look at the Sun and the Post. The reason you perceive a left leaning bias is because the vast majority of Canadians do not support backwards conservative ideology and journalists are part of the vast majority.

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Why is it so hard for cons to realize that no credible journalist will sing the praises of bad and backwards policies that harm the countrys people , environment , economy and reputation . Would you write a positive article about the NDPs minimum wage proposal or their child care plan ? No . It would be a negative article every time and indeed there are some - just look at the Sun and the Post . The reason you perceive a left leaning bias is because the vast majority of Canadians do not support backwards conservative ideology and journalists are part of the vast majority .

source2_33444228_71

Excellent article. An insightful warning to be heeded. Identities poikitics is folly and the Federal Government, the Ontario Government, and the SJW are setting Canada up for a backlash.

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Excellent article . An insightful warning to be heeded . Identities poikitics is folly and the Federal Government , the Ontario Government , and the SJW are setting Canada up for a backlash .

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Let's face it, just like Ralph Klein, who said any dummy can run this economy. When oil is sitting at $100 a barrel, and every resource in the country is pledged to that industry, it's easy to be successful. But the Cons were way out of their league when oil tanked and they had done nothing to diversify the economy of the country and made the structure even more narrow than it was before. If history repeats itself that's where you guys will take the country back to in no time at all. You guys need to have a real hard look in the mirror and realize that most of us are not waiting for the rapture and the end of days and see Canadians as vital intellectual capacity, capable of an economy well beyond primary resource development. You guys have to get off your addiction to oil and gas and the huge sums of corporate money that flows from it

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Lets face it , just like Ralph Klein , who said any dummy can run this economy . When oil is sitting at $ 100 a barrel , and every resource in the country is pledged to that industry , its easy to be successful . But the Cons were way out of their league when oil tanked and they had done nothing to diversify the economy of the country and made the structure even more narrow than it was before . If history repeats itself thats where you guys will take the country back to in no time at all . You guys need to have a real hard look in the mirror and realize that most of us are not waiting for the rapture and the end of days and see Canadians as vital intellectual capacity , capable of an economy well beyond primary resource development . You guys have to get off your addiction to oil and gas and the huge sums of corporate money that flows from it

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He should know that the Energy East pipeline is already in the ground from Alberta to the Ontario/Quebec border near Cornwall... so talking to Brad Wall makes little sense. It makes more sense to talk to Dennis Coderre, mayor of Montreal... than talking to Brad wall... when the major obstacle is running a new pipeline thru Quebec to Montreal area and thru NB to tide water...

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He should know that the Energy East pipeline is already in the ground from Alberta to the Ontario/Quebec border near Cornwall ... so talking to Brad Wall makes little sense . It makes more sense to talk to Dennis Coderre , mayor of Montreal ... than talking to Brad wall ... when the major obstacle is running a new pipeline thru Quebec to Montreal area and thru NB to tide water ...

source1_24565777_105

But, of course. The pro-Liberal media can smear Harper whether or not, he attends a debate. Try as they may, the pro-Liberal media will not succeed in discrediting Harper. Thanks to Harper, Canada is one of only a few countries that enjoys a triple A credit rating, is the second best country in the world to do business with, has the richest middle classes in the world, leads the G7 in job creation, has unemployment down to the lowest it’s been in decades, has reduced taxes for small businesses and has a balanced budget with a surplus of billions that will enable Harper to reduce our taxes yet again and pour money into infrastructure. Harper’s TFSA and Family Tax Cuts helps every single person in Canada and especially people in middle and lower income brackets despite what Trudeau would have you believe. If elected, Trudeau will reduce the federal tax rate for only the top one third of the population at a cost of 3 billion dollars. He will cover 1 billion of that cost by undoing Harper’s tax cuts, increased TFSA contribution and income-splitting for families with children. Regarding the remaining 2 billion dollars, ‘details are to follow’. Hold on to your wallets as that can only mean more Liberal taxes. Trudeau already intends on implementing a carbon tax and probably has numerous other taxes in mind. Regarding the very real threat of terrorism in Canada, Harper has been the only one to stand firmly against terrorism from the start. Not only does Trudeau entirely lack the credentials required to run a country but his soft on terrorism stance endangers our safety, freedom and the welfare of Canada. Fortunately, many Canadians are grateful for Harper's ongoing tax cuts, his tough stance on terrorism and his desire to preserve our Canadian values. Trudeau actually calls us anti-Muslim simply because we wish to maintain our Canadian values but, then again, Trudeau would also sell Canada out for a vote.

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But , of course . The pro-Liberal media can smear Harper whether or not , he attends a debate . Try as they may , the pro-Liberal media will not succeed in discrediting Harper . Thanks to Harper , Canada is one of only a few countries that enjoys a triple A credit rating , is the second best country in the world to do business with , has the richest middle classes in the world , leads the G7 in job creation , has unemployment down to the lowest it ’ s been in decades , has reduced taxes for small businesses and has a balanced budget with a surplus of billions that will enable Harper to reduce our taxes yet again and pour money into infrastructure . Harper ’ s TFSA and Family Tax Cuts helps every single person in Canada and especially people in middle and lower income brackets despite what Trudeau would have you believe . If elected , Trudeau will reduce the federal tax rate for only the top one third of the population at a cost of 3 billion dollars . He will cover 1 billion of that cost by undoing Harper ’ s tax cuts , increased TFSA contribution and income-splitting for families with children . Regarding the remaining 2 billion dollars , ‘ details are to follow ’ . Hold on to your wallets as that can only mean more Liberal taxes . Trudeau already intends on implementing a carbon tax and probably has numerous other taxes in mind . Regarding the very real threat of terrorism in Canada , Harper has been the only one to stand firmly against terrorism from the start . Not only does Trudeau entirely lack the credentials required to run a country but his soft on terrorism stance endangers our safety , freedom and the welfare of Canada . Fortunately , many Canadians are grateful for Harpers ongoing tax cuts , his tough stance on terrorism and his desire to preserve our Canadian values . Trudeau actually calls us anti-Muslim simply because we wish to maintain our Canadian values but , then again , Trudeau would also sell Canada out for a vote .

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The rot in the Ontario government extends beyond the McGuinty/Wynne politicians to the incompetent leadership within the Ontario Public Service. The people who drew up these faulty contracts and proposed these faulty green energy schemes to their political leadership bear some responsibility. Unfortunately, the OPS has become a festering nepotocracy where competence, credentials relevant to the portfolios and professional integrity are largely absent from the directors, assistant deputy ministers and deputy ministers. Sadly, the people in line to succeed them are just as incompetent.

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The rot in the Ontario government extends beyond the McGuinty/Wynne politicians to the incompetent leadership within the Ontario Public Service . The people who drew up these faulty contracts and proposed these faulty green energy schemes to their political leadership bear some responsibility . Unfortunately , the OPS has become a festering nepotocracy where competence , credentials relevant to the portfolios and professional integrity are largely absent from the directors , assistant deputy ministers and deputy ministers . Sadly , the people in line to succeed them are just as incompetent .

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The Premiere of Alberta didn't decide who is 'media' - Ezra Levant did, when he testified that he was not a journalist but a pundit. Actually seems pretty clear to me. And now I find it bizarre that the 'legitimate media' would rush to Levant defense. Oh, don't get me wrong, Mr. Levant can and should hold any view he wishes, and broadcast his views through whatever channels he can afford. Go for it. But should Levant be permitted to share the privileges we give to journalists when he has categorically abrogated his responsibilities to journalism? No, I think not. And that's what Notley's decision was based on. It was a well-reasoned decision, and, yet again, I find the Globe and Mail's editorial stance bizarrely ill conceived.

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The Premiere of Alberta didnt decide who is media - Ezra Levant did , when he testified that he was not a journalist but a pundit . Actually seems pretty clear to me . And now I find it bizarre that the legitimate media would rush to Levant defense . Oh , dont get me wrong , Mr. Levant can and should hold any view he wishes , and broadcast his views through whatever channels he can afford . Go for it . But should Levant be permitted to share the privileges we give to journalists when he has categorically abrogated his responsibilities to journalism ? No , I think not . And thats what Notleys decision was based on . It was a well-reasoned decision , and , yet again , I find the Globe and Mails editorial stance bizarrely ill conceived .

source1_11484180_145

It was a dismal, stumble-bum of a first week. Two years to go to the next election. Two more years of this disappointing performance will consign the Liberals to the dustbin of Canadian history - right beside the Social Credit.

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It was a dismal , stumble-bum of a first week . Two years to go to the next election . Two more years of this disappointing performance will consign the Liberals to the dustbin of Canadian history - right beside the Social Credit .

source1_21959702_62

Elderly attitude? When I was 25 my 35 year old boss wanted us to try something new at work, except the trouble was it wasn't new. We'd done it that way before she joined our group, and it didn't work. Even as a 25 year old I appreciated the value of experience. And after a week of trying things her way, so did she.

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Elderly attitude ? When I was 25 my 35 year old boss wanted us to try something new at work , except the trouble was it wasnt new . Wed done it that way before she joined our group , and it didnt work . Even as a 25 year old I appreciated the value of experience . And after a week of trying things her way , so did she .

source1_21959702_71

For once, I agree with the main thrust of Ms Wente's piece this time. I have a friend in his 40s who natters on about his health problems (and no, he doesn't have a terminal disease or serious disability). But another way not to act old if you live in the heart of a city is ditch your car, and use carshare when you need one… I don't think she owns her urban SUV any more, which is progress.

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For once , I agree with the main thrust of Ms Wentes piece this time . I have a friend in his 40s who natters on about his health problems ( and no , he doesnt have a terminal disease or serious disability ) . But another way not to act old if you live in the heart of a city is ditch your car , and use carshare when you need one… I dont think she owns her urban SUV any more , which is progress .

source1_15609883_5

' the dead weight of Prime Minister Stephen Harper on Conservative fortunes...'Dead weight or not, Stephen Harper remains the only thing the Conservative Party has going for it.Not even in the time of Diefenbaker was the Conservative Party ever before defined and controlled so closely and entirely by a single person's identity. The general election isn't for another two years, and the Conservative party has resources that dwarf all of its possible opponents put together, so it is a bit soon to be making funeral arrangements. Stephen Harper isn't going anywhere. The Conservatives are going to live or die by him in the next election - because without him, they're toast anyhow. Anybody who thinks that Stephen Harper will be a pushover in the next election is dreaming. The oil industry has already made it abundantly clear that it is prepared to spend whatever it takes, and do whatever it takes, to keep their man in office. It's a little soon to be celebrating.

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the dead weight of Prime Minister Stephen Harper on Conservative fortunes ... Dead weight or not , Stephen Harper remains the only thing the Conservative Party has going for it.Not even in the time of Diefenbaker was the Conservative Party ever before defined and controlled so closely and entirely by a single persons identity . The general election isnt for another two years , and the Conservative party has resources that dwarf all of its possible opponents put together , so it is a bit soon to be making funeral arrangements . Stephen Harper isnt going anywhere . The Conservatives are going to live or die by him in the next election - because without him , theyre toast anyhow . Anybody who thinks that Stephen Harper will be a pushover in the next election is dreaming . The oil industry has already made it abundantly clear that it is prepared to spend whatever it takes , and do whatever it takes , to keep their man in office . Its a little soon to be celebrating .

source1_31800325_76

Political correctness is confined to fewer disciplines than Margaret suggests. Primarily it's in English and gender and social studies. In philosophy (my discipline) there was little political correctness. There were feminists, but they didn't seem that strident and certainly weren't censorious. I call myself a liberal feminist like our PM, but I'm completely opposed to all censorship even of hate speech.

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Political correctness is confined to fewer disciplines than Margaret suggests . Primarily its in English and gender and social studies . In philosophy ( my discipline ) there was little political correctness . There were feminists , but they didnt seem that strident and certainly werent censorious . I call myself a liberal feminist like our PM , but Im completely opposed to all censorship even of hate speech .

source1_31800325_59

I must admit I have no idea what happens on a university campus in 2016 beyond the sporting events I attend. Back in the late 1960s lots of very divergent speakers were invited onto the UBC campus. The atmosphere was always interesting and very raucous at times. The leader of the KKK of Canada and the leader of the Marxist Party of Canada spoke before large crowds at the old UBC SUB building. Microphones were open for questions. Oh ... the tuition in 2016 is almost shocking!

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I must admit I have no idea what happens on a university campus in 2016 beyond the sporting events I attend . Back in the late 1960s lots of very divergent speakers were invited onto the UBC campus . The atmosphere was always interesting and very raucous at times . The leader of the KKK of Canada and the leader of the Marxist Party of Canada spoke before large crowds at the old UBC SUB building . Microphones were open for questions . Oh ... the tuition in 2016 is almost shocking !

source1_17357856_68

What can Quebec do outside Canada that it cannot do inside a Federal structure? Can Canada afford to distracted by another referendum for 1 or 2 years? The last few years in Quebec have been dominated by protests against cuts in government services (Quebec student protest). Cuts to government services will be more severe once Quebec gains autonomy. Quebec will loose $8 billion in equalization payments and risks loosing preferential access to the US market.

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What can Quebec do outside Canada that it can not do inside a Federal structure ? Can Canada afford to distracted by another referendum for 1 or 2 years ? The last few years in Quebec have been dominated by protests against cuts in government services ( Quebec student protest ) . Cuts to government services will be more severe once Quebec gains autonomy . Quebec will loose $ 8 billion in equalization payments and risks loosing preferential access to the US market .

source1_17357856_96

To sebastian Sebastian 8 minutes ago My mind set is that I believe that all people should have the freedom to choose how they govern themselves and if the majority of Quebec wants their own country Canada doesn't have the moral right to make them stay under our rule. I'd say the same thing randomly the City of Winnipeg chose to be a city state. 'What bothers me about Quebec separatism is I have never seen an actual worked out plan of how it would work ie dividing federal assets in Quebec, treaties with the natives, currency, taking their share of the national debt, or even the actual boarders on the new country of Quebec. (If someone has a link I'd be happy to check it out) I imagine this would take years and years of legal battles to figure out.' International Aspects of the Division of Debt under Secession: The Case of Quebec and Canada Dane Rowlands Canadian Public Policy / Analyse de Poli... > Vol. 23, No. 1, Mar., 1997 International treatises are reconducted automatically. Québec already signed treatises with its native people in the 1980's which would serve as a template. Québec can choose to keep the Canadian dollar (without the benefits of having control over its own central bank), etc, etc. It is incredibly naive - as most of the posters here are - to believe that all these questions haven't already been thought of through and through from both Québec and the federal government's sides. Many matters would still require negotiations obviously...

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To sebastian Sebastian 8 minutes ago My mind set is that I believe that all people should have the freedom to choose how they govern themselves and if the majority of Quebec wants their own country Canada doesnt have the moral right to make them stay under our rule . Id say the same thing randomly the City of Winnipeg chose to be a city state . What bothers me about Quebec separatism is I have never seen an actual worked out plan of how it would work ie dividing federal assets in Quebec , treaties with the natives , currency , taking their share of the national debt , or even the actual boarders on the new country of Quebec . ( If someone has a link Id be happy to check it out ) I imagine this would take years and years of legal battles to figure out . International Aspects of the Division of Debt under Secession : The Case of Quebec and Canada Dane Rowlands Canadian Public Policy / Analyse de Poli ... > Vol . 23 , No . 1 , Mar. , 1997 International treatises are reconducted automatically . Québec already signed treatises with its native people in the 1980s which would serve as a template . Québec can choose to keep the Canadian dollar ( without the benefits of having control over its own central bank ) , etc , etc . It is incredibly naive - as most of the posters here are - to believe that all these questions havent already been thought of through and through from both Québec and the federal governments sides . Many matters would still require negotiations obviously ...

source1_17357856_151

Why do so many people here think there will be negotiations with Quebec if the Oui side wins? Especially, what makes anyone think the Clarity Act will mean a thing? Does no one remember Parizeau approaching serving Canadian military officers before the 95 referendum? What do you think he was asking them? If Oui gets 50%+1 you can expect a unilateral declaration of independence. Then what? If Quebec refuses to negotiate will Canada fight to keep them? Will we roll tanks into Quebec city? Do we even have enough soldiers to occupy one city? We don't. So what exactly do people here think they can do to enforce a negotiated settlement? That's what i want to know.

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Why do so many people here think there will be negotiations with Quebec if the Oui side wins ? Especially , what makes anyone think the Clarity Act will mean a thing ? Does no one remember Parizeau approaching serving Canadian military officers before the 95 referendum ? What do you think he was asking them ? If Oui gets 50 % +1 you can expect a unilateral declaration of independence . Then what ? If Quebec refuses to negotiate will Canada fight to keep them ? Will we roll tanks into Quebec city ? Do we even have enough soldiers to occupy one city ? We dont . So what exactly do people here think they can do to enforce a negotiated settlement ? Thats what i want to know .

source1_17357856_24

The problem they have with a secession referendum is that this time they need to get a substantial majority on a clear question. Last time it was practically accepted that 50% plus one on a trick question would suffice. We have a different ball game. Good luck on the referendum, guys, but it won't succeed with the new ground rules.

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The problem they have with a secession referendum is that this time they need to get a substantial majority on a clear question . Last time it was practically accepted that 50 % plus one on a trick question would suffice . We have a different ball game . Good luck on the referendum , guys , but it wont succeed with the new ground rules .

source1_27072545_113

Interesting cynical take on post-partisanship. Erroneously conflates Trudeau and Obama. Trudeau will not be facing a hostile Congress, the Canadian political system doesn't work that way, and the article is surprisingly simplistic for someone who teaches political science and is a fellow at Massey College. The election of Trudeau should mean we continue to escape the polarization of ideologies that plagues most other Western countries, and with which we flirted briefly when we considered having the Conservative and NDP as our two major parties. While it gives the electorate a clear choice, and clarifies the ideological differences, it is also based on the idea that one side is right and the other wrong. Canadians have always known this is not true, and thus have tended towards electing consensus governments, whether Progressive Conservative or Liberal. If the Tories respond to this defeat by tacking to the centre, we will have reestablished this pattern, in which it could be argued we have been 'post-partisan' for much of our history. In that interpretation, non-partisanship can be a good thing. Partisanship is so in the DNA in the US that the parallel doesn't stand up under any serious analysis.

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Interesting cynical take on post-partisanship . Erroneously conflates Trudeau and Obama . Trudeau will not be facing a hostile Congress , the Canadian political system doesnt work that way , and the article is surprisingly simplistic for someone who teaches political science and is a fellow at Massey College . The election of Trudeau should mean we continue to escape the polarization of ideologies that plagues most other Western countries , and with which we flirted briefly when we considered having the Conservative and NDP as our two major parties . While it gives the electorate a clear choice , and clarifies the ideological differences , it is also based on the idea that one side is right and the other wrong . Canadians have always known this is not true , and thus have tended towards electing consensus governments , whether Progressive Conservative or Liberal . If the Tories respond to this defeat by tacking to the centre , we will have reestablished this pattern , in which it could be argued we have been post-partisan for much of our history . In that interpretation , non-partisanship can be a good thing . Partisanship is so in the DNA in the US that the parallel doesnt stand up under any serious analysis .

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How many of the posters here have service thier cars regularly? VW found a way around the regulations and we're caught. Is this not the way of many corporations today? Subway's subs not being a foot long, pipe line companies having spills not reporting them, how about the rail companies?

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How many of the posters here have service thier cars regularly ? VW found a way around the regulations and were caught . Is this not the way of many corporations today ? Subways subs not being a foot long , pipe line companies having spills not reporting them , how about the rail companies ?

source1_29717540_17

'It’s estimated that the world uses 68 per cent less land to produce the same quantity of crops as 50 years ago. We’ve done this without a massive increase in fertilizer and chemicals.'An astonishingly erroneous statement. Just Google any graph of fertilizer use alone over the last 50 years, never mind pesticides. An exponential increase in consumption... with enormous off-farm impacts on all ecosystems. Agriculture needs a redesign towards 'ecological intensification' (as FAO, and major international industry consortia all recognize). Simplistic arguments such as this wont held with such redesign.

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It ’ s estimated that the world uses 68 per cent less land to produce the same quantity of crops as 50 years ago . We ’ ve done this without a massive increase in fertilizer and chemicals.An astonishingly erroneous statement . Just Google any graph of fertilizer use alone over the last 50 years , never mind pesticides . An exponential increase in consumption ... with enormous off-farm impacts on all ecosystems . Agriculture needs a redesign towards ecological intensification ( as FAO , and major international industry consortia all recognize ) . Simplistic arguments such as this wont held with such redesign .

source1_29287461_60

a lot of interest when Obama was seeking the nomination......and now....a lot of interest when Trump is seeking the nomination.....Different parties... different times. No real problem with Obama's era ..other than it wasn't republican......and republicans sabotaged any and all White House initiatives... Not sure....even if 'the donald' is the nominee....republicans can win

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a lot of interest when Obama was seeking the nomination ... ... and now ... .a lot of interest when Trump is seeking the nomination ... ..Different parties ... different times . No real problem with Obamas era ..other than it wasnt republican ... ... and republicans sabotaged any and all White House initiatives ... Not sure ... .even if the donald is the nominee ... .republicans can win

source1_29287461_83

re : Donald Trump, etc. The growth in the Hispanic/minority population has motived this electoral result. In simple terms, on election day, while Jose and Maria are getting the kids out to school, and going to work, the retired old white people are terrified of what they see happening in their city, state and country, and are voting against it the only way they know how. Since Jose and Maria will not vote, or may not be able to vote, they view the issues above and beyond them. The schools they send their kids to may be worse than they were 30 years ago, but they are light-years better than the schools in Chiapas. Same with the deteriorating roads, etc., etc. All are better than Chaipas, or Hondorus... And since Republicans believe in a larger, stronger military, this is source of employment for all the children Jose and Maria have. This silly system that seems dysfuctional, and puzzling to outsiders actually works to many peoples ends. That it doesn't produce a society like Denmark, is not what it is about, or in fact a goal for any of the people involed...

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re : Donald Trump , etc . The growth in the Hispanic/minority population has motived this electoral result . In simple terms , on election day , while Jose and Maria are getting the kids out to school , and going to work , the retired old white people are terrified of what they see happening in their city , state and country , and are voting against it the only way they know how . Since Jose and Maria will not vote , or may not be able to vote , they view the issues above and beyond them . The schools they send their kids to may be worse than they were 30 years ago , but they are light-years better than the schools in Chiapas . Same with the deteriorating roads , etc. , etc . All are better than Chaipas , or Hondorus ... And since Republicans believe in a larger , stronger military , this is source of employment for all the children Jose and Maria have . This silly system that seems dysfuctional , and puzzling to outsiders actually works to many peoples ends . That it doesnt produce a society like Denmark , is not what it is about , or in fact a goal for any of the people involed ...

source1_29287461_42

In the US cranky, old white people vote in by far the highest percentages. I listened to an NPR program a while ago, on the growth of the 'hispanic factor' in US elections. While gerymandering is a side issue, one person pointed out that Texas has one of the largest, fastest growing Hispanic populations in absolute, and percentage ratios in the USA. For 20 years, 'pundits' have been predicting that Texas is going to 'flip over' massively to the Democrats, based upon this. Result?Texas has become more Republican with every succeeding election both at the state level and federally. Gerrymandering can only accomplish so much, people getting out to vote is by far the most important. Look at Brazil - it is at most 20 - 30% European by background, yet the public face of the place is whiter than ever. I see the USA being led by older, white people long, long after anyone posting here is gone from this earth...

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In the US cranky , old white people vote in by far the highest percentages . I listened to an NPR program a while ago , on the growth of the hispanic factor in US elections . While gerymandering is a side issue , one person pointed out that Texas has one of the largest , fastest growing Hispanic populations in absolute , and percentage ratios in the USA . For 20 years , pundits have been predicting that Texas is going to flip over massively to the Democrats , based upon this . Result ? Texas has become more Republican with every succeeding election both at the state level and federally . Gerrymandering can only accomplish so much , people getting out to vote is by far the most important . Look at Brazil - it is at most 20 - 30 % European by background , yet the public face of the place is whiter than ever . I see the USA being led by older , white people long , long after anyone posting here is gone from this earth ...

source1_8996700_37

Thank you for your column Ms. Renzetti. These issues should be widely known and debated. However, your suggestion to write a letter isn't very useful. First of all, it isn't 'something you shouldn't'. Secondly, writing letters to your MP is nothing more than a formality - yes we should express our dissatisfaction, but I have no confidence that my MP listens to anyone but the PMO and then follows his/her orders like all the other sheep. Like the scientists who marched, we need to be in the streets.

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Thank you for your column Ms. Renzetti . These issues should be widely known and debated . However , your suggestion to write a letter isnt very useful . First of all , it isnt something you shouldnt . Secondly , writing letters to your MP is nothing more than a formality - yes we should express our dissatisfaction , but I have no confidence that my MP listens to anyone but the PMO and then follows his/her orders like all the other sheep . Like the scientists who marched , we need to be in the streets .

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It seems as if there's a core of 15-20% of core conservative supporters in this country (and others) that consistently embrace this kind of unthinking, perpetually angry or aggrieved style of governing. Time for a change, I think.

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It seems as if theres a core of 15-20 % of core conservative supporters in this country ( and others ) that consistently embrace this kind of unthinking , perpetually angry or aggrieved style of governing . Time for a change , I think .

source1_25836587_78

I agree the loss of moderate Conservatism has been a big problem. I realize all parties need to be big tent ones but clearly Harper and many in his party aren't interested in those who are too moderate and that probably explains a big reason the party is struggling in the polls. Generally speaking most Canadians whether they lean left or lean right like things fairly moderate and tend to have an aversion to policies made solely on ideology. There is nothing wrong with adopting policies that are seen as right wing or left wing if there is strong evidence they work, but doing so for the sake of ideology is when you run into trouble.

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I agree the loss of moderate Conservatism has been a big problem . I realize all parties need to be big tent ones but clearly Harper and many in his party arent interested in those who are too moderate and that probably explains a big reason the party is struggling in the polls . Generally speaking most Canadians whether they lean left or lean right like things fairly moderate and tend to have an aversion to policies made solely on ideology . There is nothing wrong with adopting policies that are seen as right wing or left wing if there is strong evidence they work , but doing so for the sake of ideology is when you run into trouble .

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Simpson's bemoaned moderate conservative was basically Toronto liberal. This article is written from the point of view of the old 'in' crowd, wishing for an earlier time when they had influence and importance. Luckily time, and Canada, have moved on. As an actual conservative who lived through the Joe Clark, Mulroney, and (luckily very short) Campbell era, I am grateful for the demise of that group, though they keep trying to come back, not realizing that their time is over.

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Simpsons bemoaned moderate conservative was basically Toronto liberal . This article is written from the point of view of the old in crowd , wishing for an earlier time when they had influence and importance . Luckily time , and Canada , have moved on . As an actual conservative who lived through the Joe Clark , Mulroney , and ( luckily very short ) Campbell era , I am grateful for the demise of that group , though they keep trying to come back , not realizing that their time is over .

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Prior to 1995 (the year Mike Harris was elected), I almost always voted PC, sometimes Liberal. But since '95, I have never, ever voted Conservative. I liked the idea of a socially progressive party, that would keep a close on our country's finances. This is why we need a new kind of voting system to replace first past the post.

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Prior to 1995 ( the year Mike Harris was elected ) , I almost always voted PC , sometimes Liberal . But since 95 , I have never , ever voted Conservative . I liked the idea of a socially progressive party , that would keep a close on our countrys finances . This is why we need a new kind of voting system to replace first past the post .

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You speak for me Mr. Simpson. I'm a former P.C. voter in Calgary who watched in horror as the Reform Party captured the conservative agenda and made it nastier and more biased then I could stand. I became an imperfect Liberal supporter by default. I now contribute financially to both the Liberals and the NDP in the hopes that Stephen Harper and Conservative ideology don't get another shot at government.

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You speak for me Mr. Simpson . Im a former P.C . voter in Calgary who watched in horror as the Reform Party captured the conservative agenda and made it nastier and more biased then I could stand . I became an imperfect Liberal supporter by default . I now contribute financially to both the Liberals and the NDP in the hopes that Stephen Harper and Conservative ideology dont get another shot at government .

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Contained in the same article: 1) medïcal pot is a sham2) ïts medical benefits are overstated3) large scale clinical trails have not been conducteddear lord... there are several orders of magnitude between medical pot is a sham and its benefits are overstated... doesn't the absence of clinical trials undermine any claims about the benefits being overstated? how exactly is she making that judgment without the evidence?

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Contained in the same article : 1 ) medïcal pot is a sham2 ) ïts medical benefits are overstated3 ) large scale clinical trails have not been conducteddear lord ... there are several orders of magnitude between medical pot is a sham and its benefits are overstated ... doesnt the absence of clinical trials undermine any claims about the benefits being overstated ? how exactly is she making that judgment without the evidence ?

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People with genuine pain have great difficulty getting any pain relief from most doctors. This in part explains the need for medical marijuana. Besides, this is clearly a drug that should be legal anyways, given that it's much less harmful than alcohol or cigarettes, both of which are legal.

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People with genuine pain have great difficulty getting any pain relief from most doctors . This in part explains the need for medical marijuana . Besides , this is clearly a drug that should be legal anyways , given that its much less harmful than alcohol or cigarettes , both of which are legal .

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I am a provincial health care worker in BC and our contract does allow us to be paid out a partial amount for unused sick time at retirement. This is a benefit I would gladly bargain away as it is a luxury item, not a right. Sick time should be like an insurance policy - there if you need it and a bridge to STD or LTD only.

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I am a provincial health care worker in BC and our contract does allow us to be paid out a partial amount for unused sick time at retirement . This is a benefit I would gladly bargain away as it is a luxury item , not a right . Sick time should be like an insurance policy - there if you need it and a bridge to STD or LTD only .

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Not so long ago, virtually all women in their prime tended to home and family. The only exceptions were the infertile and the feeble-minded. Home-making was integral to what it was to be a woman, and not to be a home-maker was shameful. That’s no longer true. Today, a woman can choose any career or still be home-makers as a lifestyle as an option – and plenty do. They’re quite happy to be liberated from their traditional roles and join men in the workforce while still expecting men to fulfill their traditional roles of protector and provider and shaming them if they don't.

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Not so long ago , virtually all women in their prime tended to home and family . The only exceptions were the infertile and the feeble-minded . Home-making was integral to what it was to be a woman , and not to be a home-maker was shameful . That ’ s no longer true . Today , a woman can choose any career or still be home-makers as a lifestyle as an option – and plenty do . They ’ re quite happy to be liberated from their traditional roles and join men in the workforce while still expecting men to fulfill their traditional roles of protector and provider and shaming them if they dont .

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I would suggest that this is not just an American problem but a problem in all developed countries including Canada. High labour costs have justified investing in automation to drive productivity by eliminating unskilled and semi-skilled jobs. Globalization has forced that same unskilled labour sector to compete with low cost labour in developing nations. During the past 25 years multinational companies have chased low cost labour around the world driving brutal competition between their own plants. We don't need to look at the US for this we can just see it right here in Ontario where we have the added disadvantage that the majority of large manufacturing plants are 'branch plants' subject to strategic decisions being made in another country. Also, let us not forget that in the last decade the Liberal party has systematically ruined our electricity supply system, making Ontario the highest electricity cost region in North America. Low cost Electricity is the life blood of the economy and the current high cost is driving out manufacturing further exacerbating the un/semi-skilled job situation. From a social engineering perspective, we now have at least 2 generations who have been coddled, raised with little or no discipline. In addition to poor parenting, we as a society have completely emasculated our teachers such that many schools are just a war zone with no enforcement of civilized behaviour. Academic excellence is optional. We as a society have abdicated our responsibility to raise our children to be civilized, competent, independent adults which is why we have so many 20 and 30 something 'boys' that failed academically and are completely unmotivated to work. Try to hire someone to do physical work, it is almost impossible; if it cannot be done with a power tool you will end up doing it yourself. There are thousands of able bodied men who could earn income doing manual work but they have never been taught a work ethic. I don't know why you picked the US Margaret, the crisis is right here in Canada, crying out for attention.

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I would suggest that this is not just an American problem but a problem in all developed countries including Canada . High labour costs have justified investing in automation to drive productivity by eliminating unskilled and semi-skilled jobs . Globalization has forced that same unskilled labour sector to compete with low cost labour in developing nations . During the past 25 years multinational companies have chased low cost labour around the world driving brutal competition between their own plants . We dont need to look at the US for this we can just see it right here in Ontario where we have the added disadvantage that the majority of large manufacturing plants are branch plants subject to strategic decisions being made in another country . Also , let us not forget that in the last decade the Liberal party has systematically ruined our electricity supply system , making Ontario the highest electricity cost region in North America . Low cost Electricity is the life blood of the economy and the current high cost is driving out manufacturing further exacerbating the un/semi-skilled job situation . From a social engineering perspective , we now have at least 2 generations who have been coddled , raised with little or no discipline . In addition to poor parenting , we as a society have completely emasculated our teachers such that many schools are just a war zone with no enforcement of civilized behaviour . Academic excellence is optional . We as a society have abdicated our responsibility to raise our children to be civilized , competent , independent adults which is why we have so many 20 and 30 something boys that failed academically and are completely unmotivated to work . Try to hire someone to do physical work , it is almost impossible ; if it can not be done with a power tool you will end up doing it yourself . There are thousands of able bodied men who could earn income doing manual work but they have never been taught a work ethic . I dont know why you picked the US Margaret , the crisis is right here in Canada , crying out for attention .

source1_11285554_45

A pretty well played column. I think this is my favourite part: 'They will continue to use taxpayers' money to brag shamelessly on television about Canada's Economic Action Plan.'And didn't the plan wrap up a couple of years ago? But Simpson is right. The Conservatives still have this mysterious reputation of being good with the economy, although they have no record to suggest that. They inherited surpluses and turned them into deficits. Partly through a recession that was no fault of their own but also through tax cuts that did nothing to stimulate the economy but did everything to ensure that the federal government would remain in the fiscal hole even as the economy picked up again. And yet that failed logic has become the common sense among all three parties.

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A pretty well played column . I think this is my favourite part : They will continue to use taxpayers money to brag shamelessly on television about Canadas Economic Action Plan.And didnt the plan wrap up a couple of years ago ? But Simpson is right . The Conservatives still have this mysterious reputation of being good with the economy , although they have no record to suggest that . They inherited surpluses and turned them into deficits . Partly through a recession that was no fault of their own but also through tax cuts that did nothing to stimulate the economy but did everything to ensure that the federal government would remain in the fiscal hole even as the economy picked up again . And yet that failed logic has become the common sense among all three parties .

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'...but its ideas are rooted in the Ed Broadbent era: anti-free trade, skeptical of business and the free market, eager to pour borrowed money into social programs.'Hmm well with the temporary foreign worker program (product of free trade); skeptical of business (who are exploiting this program) and the large amount of unemployed canadians...... should we embrace the business community, free flow of the labour so that we can all be out on the streets without social benefits....Get Bent.

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... but its ideas are rooted in the Ed Broadbent era : anti-free trade , skeptical of business and the free market , eager to pour borrowed money into social programs.Hmm well with the temporary foreign worker program ( product of free trade ) ; skeptical of business ( who are exploiting this program ) and the large amount of unemployed canadians ... ... should we embrace the business community , free flow of the labour so that we can all be out on the streets without social benefits ... .Get Bent .

source1_11285554_13

The NDP won't scare the Conservatives. Their recent success is a combination of Layton portraying a positive message, people being tired of the Conservatives, and the Liberals having completely inept leadership. But they're definitely scared of Trudeau. Without Layton the NDP is becoming more fractured. A good chunk of their support in the last election was really just from people not liking the conservatives and they seemed like the most viable alternative to vote for but it isn't really party affiliation. Trudeau's going to have the same positive message that Jack had, and he's going to try and convince people that not a completely flawed leader like their last few which have really driven people away from the party. If that works even moderately well, the Liberals could decimate the Conservatives in Ontario, and in a lot of ridings that the NDP took in Quebec.

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The NDP wont scare the Conservatives . Their recent success is a combination of Layton portraying a positive message , people being tired of the Conservatives , and the Liberals having completely inept leadership . But theyre definitely scared of Trudeau . Without Layton the NDP is becoming more fractured . A good chunk of their support in the last election was really just from people not liking the conservatives and they seemed like the most viable alternative to vote for but it isnt really party affiliation . Trudeaus going to have the same positive message that Jack had , and hes going to try and convince people that not a completely flawed leader like their last few which have really driven people away from the party . If that works even moderately well , the Liberals could decimate the Conservatives in Ontario , and in a lot of ridings that the NDP took in Quebec .

source1_32655412_169

''Someone once said that America can always be relied upon to do the right thing – having first exhausted all other alternatives. America, it’s less than a week to voting day. Your alternatives are now exhausted.''Analysis based on hope! There is still an 'other alternative': elect Trump. THEN America will have to try to do the 'right thing'

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Someone once said that America can always be relied upon to do the right thing – having first exhausted all other alternatives . America , it ’ s less than a week to voting day . Your alternatives are now exhausted.Analysis based on hope ! There is still an other alternative : elect Trump . THEN America will have to try to do the right thing

source1_27307063_172

Hard to argue Ms. Gagnon's logic here. Withdrawing F-18s and playing the Amazing Race: Refugee Edition was always partisan politics - when Harper did the same it was called 'pandering to the base'. The first steps to repair Canada's supposedly 'pariah among nations' status. But then Paris happened. Time for leadership. Time to think on your feet, react to new circumstances. Definitely NOT the time to stick to the party line. And does anyone actually believe that withdrawing air support for anti-ISIS forces somehow enhances our mythical 'honest broker' status? 'we won't fight , but we'll show others how to'?Seriously?Then Paris happened.

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Hard to argue Ms. Gagnons logic here . Withdrawing F-18s and playing the Amazing Race : Refugee Edition was always partisan politics - when Harper did the same it was called pandering to the base . The first steps to repair Canadas supposedly pariah among nations status . But then Paris happened . Time for leadership . Time to think on your feet , react to new circumstances . Definitely NOT the time to stick to the party line . And does anyone actually believe that withdrawing air support for anti-ISIS forces somehow enhances our mythical honest broker status ? we wont fight , but well show others how to ? Seriously ? Then Paris happened .

source1_27307063_162

Kind of like the Billy Bishop deal. Jr 101 economics. Stop the runway extension and lots of short term construction jobs that will help downtown Toronto business and cost more job gains. Stop 2 billion order of quiet jets from Bombardier where lot's of jobs would be created and stop expansion of Porter Airlines and more jobs and then flush a couple biilion with handouts to Bombardier. That makes sense.

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Kind of like the Billy Bishop deal . Jr 101 economics . Stop the runway extension and lots of short term construction jobs that will help downtown Toronto business and cost more job gains . Stop 2 billion order of quiet jets from Bombardier where lots of jobs would be created and stop expansion of Porter Airlines and more jobs and then flush a couple biilion with handouts to Bombardier . That makes sense .

source1_27307063_144

Another winner for LG. The new government is handling this situation terribly. Remember, Canadians were largely supportive of the Con effort only because participation in an air war made it unlikely Canadian lives would be lost. Sadly, in typical fashion the Cons re-fashioned the mission to put soldiers on the ground and in harm's way. Now the Liberals want to keep their promise to bring the jets home, but at the same time appear responsible by promising more trainers. This, of course, means a greater chance of Canadians being killed. Bizarre how bringing home the jets, whose deployment many initially supported, could well result in more casualties, which deploying the jets was supposed to obviate.

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Another winner for LG . The new government is handling this situation terribly . Remember , Canadians were largely supportive of the Con effort only because participation in an air war made it unlikely Canadian lives would be lost . Sadly , in typical fashion the Cons re-fashioned the mission to put soldiers on the ground and in harms way . Now the Liberals want to keep their promise to bring the jets home , but at the same time appear responsible by promising more trainers . This , of course , means a greater chance of Canadians being killed . Bizarre how bringing home the jets , whose deployment many initially supported , could well result in more casualties , which deploying the jets was supposed to obviate .

source1_27307063_138

Of course it's a bad move and almost everyone in the world feels that way except Liberal partisans. The attacks on Paris are likely the opening shot of what is to be a long war and the war of our times. For the first time in our history Canada will not be participating with boots on the ground and planes in the sky in a major world war and leaving our allies to fend for themselves. We picked up our planes and came home because of some naïve idealogical, new PM. What makes it worse, is that we are deserting one of our mother countries, France, in it's time of need. If we don't help France, who do we help. It's sickening. And Like It Is's comment is wrong. If our jets were contributing little, and I believe that's not true, change the mission so they do more, don't use it as an excuse to run home

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Of course its a bad move and almost everyone in the world feels that way except Liberal partisans . The attacks on Paris are likely the opening shot of what is to be a long war and the war of our times . For the first time in our history Canada will not be participating with boots on the ground and planes in the sky in a major world war and leaving our allies to fend for themselves . We picked up our planes and came home because of some naïve idealogical , new PM . What makes it worse , is that we are deserting one of our mother countries , France , in its time of need . If we dont help France , who do we help . Its sickening . And Like It Iss comment is wrong . If our jets were contributing little , and I believe thats not true , change the mission so they do more , dont use it as an excuse to run home

source1_31520824_85

Good points made in the article - and $520 for a full year's access to an airport lounge with food and booze is a good deal, considering how often MPs travel. The car service and photography bills are clearly gouging taxpayers though, so I don't blame people for being angry. It's about the principle more than the amount.

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Good points made in the article - and $ 520 for a full years access to an airport lounge with food and booze is a good deal , considering how often MPs travel . The car service and photography bills are clearly gouging taxpayers though , so I dont blame people for being angry . Its about the principle more than the amount .