I am very proud to be working to improve the decorum and level of respect and civility in the House of Commons. I was really pleased to have been asked by my colleague, MP Michael Chong, to second his motion to improve the decorum in Question Period in the House of Commons. I am even more proud to have done so, and to have been one of several MPs from all parties to do so. The feedback I have received from so many people in Willowdale (and indeed across the country) has been overwhelmingly positive.
I am also pleased to see the attention that this issue has garnered among the media. This is an opportunity for the media to take this effort in the right spirit, and help. I hope that they refrain from always focussing so often on the 10-second sound bite that highlights the negative, the personal attacks and the hyper-partisanship. It would help if they would, at least sometimes, highlight some of the occasions when we actually work together. It does happen, and we want to encourage more of it.
I, like others, am embarrassed when school groups come to watch Question Period, knowing that what they see isn’t terribly impressive. Changes to the process will help. But there is something more fundamental here. It is not just a matter of procedural rules. It is not just a matter of whether the Speaker of the House should exercise more discipline. It is the responsibility of every Member of Parliament to show more respect and civility. Even more, it is a collective responsibility—all of us must work together.
Each one of us has the opportunity to show individually, and together collectively, that we do not need to engage in partisan attacks and personal insults. We have the opportunity to engage in debate with respect and civility. We have the opportunity to listen to each other in Parliament. Heaven knows, if we manage to listen to each other from time to time, we just may learn from each other. That would enhance not only the decorum in the House, but the progress of government in its entirety. We are there to serve you, not to attack each other.
Again, I commend all MPs who, with me, are joining together to make Parliament a more productive, respectful place. The people, like you, who vote for us and expect us to make important decisions, deserve no less.
Martha
Showing posts with label Willowdale. Show all posts
Showing posts with label Willowdale. Show all posts
9.7.10
Stephen Harper's G20: Exorbitant costs, security clashes, unwarranted police force and trampling of civil liberties
Exorbitant costs: $1Billion (that’s 1,000 Million of your taxpayer dollars) for security alone—and it will likely be much more when the bills finally come in. That doesn’t include the Fake Lake, the rest of the non-security hosting costs, let alone the tally for lost tourism, lost business and destruction of retail premises. No one knows what those costs will end up being—despite our repeated requests, the Harper government avoids all of our questions. The only thing we DO know is that the cost will have been enormous. And now, questions are mounting about favouritism and indeed possible corruption in the awarding of lucrative contracts. We will continue to probe, through the House of Commons National Security Committee and otherwise.
Unwarranted force, arrests and our civil liberties: I join the many others calling for a public inquiry based on what happened on the streets of Toronto. Despite all the excuses about “security”, the world saw Toronto—this fabulous, colourful, vibrant, safe and friendly city—as a war zone wasteland with burning cars, police violence and a trampling of civil liberties. The examples of unwarranted arrests, intimidation and inappropriate treatment of innocent, peaceful civilians continue to mount. We MUST stand for human rights, civil liberties, free speech, freedom of (peaceful) association and protest. These are critical in a democracy—it’s about far more than simply voting. Only when these rights are protected, indeed promoted, is a vote, a society, truly democratic. Not only must our police and government officials show the highest respect for these fundamental laws and liberties—they are supposed to be ones protecting them. In this case they didn’t. We must insist that they do. An inquiry is needed. The Ontario ombudsman will now review the ‘quiet’ introduction of sweeping powers (see the Globe and Mail article), and the Toronto Police have initiated a civilian review of police conduct—but Stephen Harper’s government appears to have been at the core of the decisions and the orders being given. We need to know what those orders were, who was giving them, what position those orders may have forced the Toronto police into, and who, ultimately was directing this reprehensible response.
Stephen Harper’s G20: The blame for much of this lies squarely with Stephen Harper. Harper’s last-minute decision to include the G20 in downtown Toronto (he gave the City all of 15 minutes’ notice before the public announcement); Harper’s refusal to consider options, even after Toronto itself expressed major concerns about costs, loss of revenue, security, and a multitude of other real problems for Torontonians; Harper’s handing Toronto Chief of Police Bill Blair and the Toronto police a near-impossible security task while, it appears, insisting that the Integrated Security Unit be coordinated from the Privy Council Office; the Harper government’s incompetence at managing money (your taxpayer dollars!), allowing costs to spiral out of control... Stephen Harper must be held accountable to Canadians for this.
The Liberal Party’s reaction: We have demanded answers from the Minister of Public Safety, Vic Toews. We have also joined in a request with other opposition MPs to have the House of Commons National Security Committee meet as soon as possible to investigate just what happened, and why, and asking Minister Toews to appear. Questions Liberals are asking, and which we hope can be asked at Committee soon, include: Who was ultimately giving security commands during the G20? Who designed the security plans for the G20? What security advice did the government consider before putting the summit in downtown Toronto? How were the contracts for security assistance (and indeed other summit hosting requirements) awarded? What was done, if anything, to manage costs? Who was responsible for the awarding of those contracts and what were the criteria? Given the Harper government refusal to answer almost any question, this will be tough, but we will continue to push.
Canada’s international role: I may be biased, given my own background in international relations and international law, but Canada should be playing a significant part in world affairs—more even than we are now. We have long punched above our weight, and as an example of a successful economy, of an even more successful pluralistic society based on our tremendous diversity and other strengths, and militarily (WWI, WWII, the Korean War, peacekeeping and Afghanistan). We have a real role to play on the international stage, a terrific opportunity to lead by example. As the influence of the G8 wanes and the importance of the G20 increases, it is critical that Canada have a significant role in the G20, particularly now in its early stages. (Kudos to former Liberal Prime Minister Paul Martin who, a number of years ago, proposed the idea of the G20 as an international financial forum in the first place.) Despite all of what has happened, I’m not upset that Canada agreed to host the G20, as part of the responsibility of that international role. I AM, however, very upset at how extraordinarily mismanaged the whole affair was by the Harper government. Exorbitant costs, unwarranted force, trampling of civil liberties, questions of favouritism and indeed possible corruption in the awarding of lucrative contracts—Canadians demand answers, and the world is watching....Stephen Harper must be held to account.
Unwarranted force, arrests and our civil liberties: I join the many others calling for a public inquiry based on what happened on the streets of Toronto. Despite all the excuses about “security”, the world saw Toronto—this fabulous, colourful, vibrant, safe and friendly city—as a war zone wasteland with burning cars, police violence and a trampling of civil liberties. The examples of unwarranted arrests, intimidation and inappropriate treatment of innocent, peaceful civilians continue to mount. We MUST stand for human rights, civil liberties, free speech, freedom of (peaceful) association and protest. These are critical in a democracy—it’s about far more than simply voting. Only when these rights are protected, indeed promoted, is a vote, a society, truly democratic. Not only must our police and government officials show the highest respect for these fundamental laws and liberties—they are supposed to be ones protecting them. In this case they didn’t. We must insist that they do. An inquiry is needed. The Ontario ombudsman will now review the ‘quiet’ introduction of sweeping powers (see the Globe and Mail article), and the Toronto Police have initiated a civilian review of police conduct—but Stephen Harper’s government appears to have been at the core of the decisions and the orders being given. We need to know what those orders were, who was giving them, what position those orders may have forced the Toronto police into, and who, ultimately was directing this reprehensible response.
Stephen Harper’s G20: The blame for much of this lies squarely with Stephen Harper. Harper’s last-minute decision to include the G20 in downtown Toronto (he gave the City all of 15 minutes’ notice before the public announcement); Harper’s refusal to consider options, even after Toronto itself expressed major concerns about costs, loss of revenue, security, and a multitude of other real problems for Torontonians; Harper’s handing Toronto Chief of Police Bill Blair and the Toronto police a near-impossible security task while, it appears, insisting that the Integrated Security Unit be coordinated from the Privy Council Office; the Harper government’s incompetence at managing money (your taxpayer dollars!), allowing costs to spiral out of control... Stephen Harper must be held accountable to Canadians for this.
The Liberal Party’s reaction: We have demanded answers from the Minister of Public Safety, Vic Toews. We have also joined in a request with other opposition MPs to have the House of Commons National Security Committee meet as soon as possible to investigate just what happened, and why, and asking Minister Toews to appear. Questions Liberals are asking, and which we hope can be asked at Committee soon, include: Who was ultimately giving security commands during the G20? Who designed the security plans for the G20? What security advice did the government consider before putting the summit in downtown Toronto? How were the contracts for security assistance (and indeed other summit hosting requirements) awarded? What was done, if anything, to manage costs? Who was responsible for the awarding of those contracts and what were the criteria? Given the Harper government refusal to answer almost any question, this will be tough, but we will continue to push.
Canada’s international role: I may be biased, given my own background in international relations and international law, but Canada should be playing a significant part in world affairs—more even than we are now. We have long punched above our weight, and as an example of a successful economy, of an even more successful pluralistic society based on our tremendous diversity and other strengths, and militarily (WWI, WWII, the Korean War, peacekeeping and Afghanistan). We have a real role to play on the international stage, a terrific opportunity to lead by example. As the influence of the G8 wanes and the importance of the G20 increases, it is critical that Canada have a significant role in the G20, particularly now in its early stages. (Kudos to former Liberal Prime Minister Paul Martin who, a number of years ago, proposed the idea of the G20 as an international financial forum in the first place.) Despite all of what has happened, I’m not upset that Canada agreed to host the G20, as part of the responsibility of that international role. I AM, however, very upset at how extraordinarily mismanaged the whole affair was by the Harper government. Exorbitant costs, unwarranted force, trampling of civil liberties, questions of favouritism and indeed possible corruption in the awarding of lucrative contracts—Canadians demand answers, and the world is watching....Stephen Harper must be held to account.
18.5.10
"Yes" to the Auditor General's review of MPs' expenses
As I noted this afternoon on CTV's Power Play with Tom Clark, I was indeed disappointed in the decision last week by the Board of Internal Economy (an all-party committee of MPs), to refuse the Auditor General's request to do a performance audit of the administration and services of the House of Commons.
I have tremendous respect for Sheila Fraser, our Auditor General, for the work she does, and for the nature of her responsibilities. Our government is better off because of her work, and I would be happy to have her review my books.
I also have respect for the Parliamentary process, and the fact that the Board of Internal Economy has made a decision......but I encourage them to reconsider it.
As Official Opposition Critic for Public Works and Government Services, a big part of my job is to hold the government to account--ALL of government--and to ensure that Canadian taxpayers' money is spent wisely, efficiently and effectively.
Canadians rightly believe that MPs should be held to no less of a standard.
I encourage the Board of Internal Economy to reconsider their decision, and to allow the Auditor General to perform the performance audit she has requested.
MHF
I have tremendous respect for Sheila Fraser, our Auditor General, for the work she does, and for the nature of her responsibilities. Our government is better off because of her work, and I would be happy to have her review my books.
I also have respect for the Parliamentary process, and the fact that the Board of Internal Economy has made a decision......but I encourage them to reconsider it.
As Official Opposition Critic for Public Works and Government Services, a big part of my job is to hold the government to account--ALL of government--and to ensure that Canadian taxpayers' money is spent wisely, efficiently and effectively.
Canadians rightly believe that MPs should be held to no less of a standard.
I encourage the Board of Internal Economy to reconsider their decision, and to allow the Auditor General to perform the performance audit she has requested.
MHF
6.4.10
Canada at 150: The Willowdale Experience
As industry leaders, academics and politicians gathered together in Montreal for “Canada at 150: Rising to the Challenge,” a group of enthusiastic participants also gathered at the North York Civic Centre in Willowdale to watch and participate in conference discussion. Over the course of the two days we broadcast the webcast over 40 participants joined in, and created some powerful discussions in our corner of the country.
We kicked off on Saturday with a small group including M.P. for York South-Weston, Alan Tonks. Mr. Tonks stayed with us throughout the morning chatting with the attendees that had gotten up early to participate. Hon. Judy Sgro, M.P. for York West also joined in for a short time. Mid-afternoon, our own M.P. Martha Hall Findlay called in with her own impressions of the conference, boasting that there was great conversation happening not only on stage in Montreal, but in the hallways and corridors between sessions as well. If Council Chambers in North York were any indication, it sounds as if Canadians were engaging in similar dialogue and debate right across the country. We contributed to the more formal discussion with several question submissions throughout the day, and though none came up at the conference, we did all cheer on Elizabeth Dubois from Martha’s office as she appeared on screen to ask one from the floor. For the record, we counted it as a Willowdale question! Behind the scenes we were also having a lot of fun (as we seem to so often do), one particular fit of laughter came as Carol and I tried to improvise the opening a coffee can with only a set of car keys. Though successful, we were clearly lacking the grace of the famous Willowdale Women at that particular moment.
A bit bleary eyed early Sunday morning, Robert Fowler’s keynote quickly snapped us all back to attention and quickly stirred more discussion. As the day progressed we welcomed Liberal candidate Andrea Matrosovs who had come all the way from Simcoe-Gray and the Hon. Ken Dryden, M.P. for York Centre, who had recently flown in after spending the first two days of the conference in Montreal. Together we watched as Michael Ignatieff made his closing remarks with what we all felt were some bold policy proposals. It was terrific to see that already, the ideas that were flowing from Montreal were being filtered into a strong political message. Mr. Dryden offered some additional words of wisdom and encouragement, pushing us all to stay engaged as we continue to craft our political direction.
So after hours of policy, dozens of Timbits and several pots of coffee, we all came away, with not only a few new ideas and policy perspectives, but also with a huge amount of gratitude for the Liberals for working so hard to engage Canadians from coast to coast and allowing us all to participate in satellite sessions like this one (or on computers at home). Thanks to the M.P.s and their offices who worked with us to make this happen in Willowdale. It was a unique experience speaking with a number of them in an intimate setting and getting immediate reaction to a landmark event. Also special thanks to Councillor John Filion, Willowdale (Ward 23) and his staff for securing the use of the Council Chambers. The crew from the City of Toronto from IT to A/V to security were all incredibly helpful. With the success of this event, it surely won’t be the last. We hope that you’ll join us for the next one!
- Markus O’Brien Fehr
Willowdale
We kicked off on Saturday with a small group including M.P. for York South-Weston, Alan Tonks. Mr. Tonks stayed with us throughout the morning chatting with the attendees that had gotten up early to participate. Hon. Judy Sgro, M.P. for York West also joined in for a short time. Mid-afternoon, our own M.P. Martha Hall Findlay called in with her own impressions of the conference, boasting that there was great conversation happening not only on stage in Montreal, but in the hallways and corridors between sessions as well. If Council Chambers in North York were any indication, it sounds as if Canadians were engaging in similar dialogue and debate right across the country. We contributed to the more formal discussion with several question submissions throughout the day, and though none came up at the conference, we did all cheer on Elizabeth Dubois from Martha’s office as she appeared on screen to ask one from the floor. For the record, we counted it as a Willowdale question! Behind the scenes we were also having a lot of fun (as we seem to so often do), one particular fit of laughter came as Carol and I tried to improvise the opening a coffee can with only a set of car keys. Though successful, we were clearly lacking the grace of the famous Willowdale Women at that particular moment.
A bit bleary eyed early Sunday morning, Robert Fowler’s keynote quickly snapped us all back to attention and quickly stirred more discussion. As the day progressed we welcomed Liberal candidate Andrea Matrosovs who had come all the way from Simcoe-Gray and the Hon. Ken Dryden, M.P. for York Centre, who had recently flown in after spending the first two days of the conference in Montreal. Together we watched as Michael Ignatieff made his closing remarks with what we all felt were some bold policy proposals. It was terrific to see that already, the ideas that were flowing from Montreal were being filtered into a strong political message. Mr. Dryden offered some additional words of wisdom and encouragement, pushing us all to stay engaged as we continue to craft our political direction.
So after hours of policy, dozens of Timbits and several pots of coffee, we all came away, with not only a few new ideas and policy perspectives, but also with a huge amount of gratitude for the Liberals for working so hard to engage Canadians from coast to coast and allowing us all to participate in satellite sessions like this one (or on computers at home). Thanks to the M.P.s and their offices who worked with us to make this happen in Willowdale. It was a unique experience speaking with a number of them in an intimate setting and getting immediate reaction to a landmark event. Also special thanks to Councillor John Filion, Willowdale (Ward 23) and his staff for securing the use of the Council Chambers. The crew from the City of Toronto from IT to A/V to security were all incredibly helpful. With the success of this event, it surely won’t be the last. We hope that you’ll join us for the next one!
- Markus O’Brien Fehr
Willowdale
18.3.10
Two years as MP for Willowdale
Two years!!
It figures that I was so busy with work, yesterday, on the actual 2nd anniversary of getting elected, that I didn't have time to write a note about it here. I will confess, however, to ending the day with (what better?) some Guiness at the residence of the Irish Ambassador to Canada. If I remember correctly, green beer was flowing in celebration 2 years ago. St. Patrick's Day will always hold an even more special place in my heart than it used to.
Thank you to all those who have sent such great messages of good wishes.
After two years (it feels like yesterday), I want to say something about how wonderful it is to have been elected.
As corny as it may sound, it is an extraordinary honour and privilege to be an elected Member of Parliament, in this great country of ours. Every day that I walk into these beautiful buildings, I pause, I look around, and I say to myself, "Wow---I get to work here."
I have learned so much. I have learned about how MPs lead 2 lives--one in the constituency, doing what we can to help our consituents with their relationships with the federal government (and all sorts of other things :-)); and a second, very different life, that we lead as legislators in Ottawa, working to keep the government to account, making suggestions for improvement, working on our committees, researching and analyzing proposed legislation (with the great help of our teams) and then voting accordingly; engaging in debates in the House--the list goes on. I have also learned a great deal about the many, many issues that affect Canadians; about the challenges of trying to work cooperatively in a very partisan enviroment; about what extraordinary potential that Canada and Canadians possess for doing so much more, even, both domestically and internationally, than we do now.
I love all aspects of what I do, very much. I am indeed very fortunate.
I want to take this opportunity to say thank you to the people of Willowdale for electing me--now twice!--and for showing their confidence in me. Thank you, too, to all of those volunteers who worked on those two successful campaigns, and to all those who have contributed financially. I want to thank the wonderful people with whom I work, and without whom we simply couldn't do the work we do for the people of Willowdale and for the country: In Willowdale, Michele, Carol and Lily, and all the Willowdale volunteers; in Ottawa, Anne-Sophie, Puneet and Elizabeth, and all the Ottawa volunteers; and to all of the fabulous people who make up the Willowdale Federal Liberal Association. Doing good things takes a real team effort, and I'm incredibly lucky to be able to count myself a part of this great group of people.
Thank you all, so much, and I look forward to many more years of being able to serve as the MP for Willowdale.
All best,
Martha
It figures that I was so busy with work, yesterday, on the actual 2nd anniversary of getting elected, that I didn't have time to write a note about it here. I will confess, however, to ending the day with (what better?) some Guiness at the residence of the Irish Ambassador to Canada. If I remember correctly, green beer was flowing in celebration 2 years ago. St. Patrick's Day will always hold an even more special place in my heart than it used to.
Thank you to all those who have sent such great messages of good wishes.
After two years (it feels like yesterday), I want to say something about how wonderful it is to have been elected.
As corny as it may sound, it is an extraordinary honour and privilege to be an elected Member of Parliament, in this great country of ours. Every day that I walk into these beautiful buildings, I pause, I look around, and I say to myself, "Wow---I get to work here."
I have learned so much. I have learned about how MPs lead 2 lives--one in the constituency, doing what we can to help our consituents with their relationships with the federal government (and all sorts of other things :-)); and a second, very different life, that we lead as legislators in Ottawa, working to keep the government to account, making suggestions for improvement, working on our committees, researching and analyzing proposed legislation (with the great help of our teams) and then voting accordingly; engaging in debates in the House--the list goes on. I have also learned a great deal about the many, many issues that affect Canadians; about the challenges of trying to work cooperatively in a very partisan enviroment; about what extraordinary potential that Canada and Canadians possess for doing so much more, even, both domestically and internationally, than we do now.
I love all aspects of what I do, very much. I am indeed very fortunate.
I want to take this opportunity to say thank you to the people of Willowdale for electing me--now twice!--and for showing their confidence in me. Thank you, too, to all of those volunteers who worked on those two successful campaigns, and to all those who have contributed financially. I want to thank the wonderful people with whom I work, and without whom we simply couldn't do the work we do for the people of Willowdale and for the country: In Willowdale, Michele, Carol and Lily, and all the Willowdale volunteers; in Ottawa, Anne-Sophie, Puneet and Elizabeth, and all the Ottawa volunteers; and to all of the fabulous people who make up the Willowdale Federal Liberal Association. Doing good things takes a real team effort, and I'm incredibly lucky to be able to count myself a part of this great group of people.
Thank you all, so much, and I look forward to many more years of being able to serve as the MP for Willowdale.
All best,
Martha
29.1.10
L'affaire Omar Khadr et la Charte des droits et liberlés
Chers citoyens,
Voici mes commentaires sur l’affaire Omar Khadr.
Le cas d’Omar Khadr
La Cour suprême du Canada a statué, à l’unanimité, que le gouvernement Harper a porté atteinte aux droits garantis à M. Khadr par la Charte, et que ces violations de la Constitution « se poursuivent à ce jour ».
La Cour n’a pas exigé le rapatriement de M. Khadr de la prison de Guantanamo, ayant plutôt décidé de respecter la séparation des pouvoirs et la réticence légitime des tribunaux à intervenir dans les questions relatives aux affaires étrangères. Toutefois, la Cour a clairement indiqué que le gouvernement devait remédier aux violations des droits garantis à M. Khadr par la Charte, mais elle laisse au gouvernement « une certaine latitude pour décider de la manière dont il convient de répondre ». La Cour a également fait savoir qu’elle a le pouvoir de prendre des mesures plus radicales si le gouvernement n’agit pas.
Position de Martha Hall Findlay
- La décision de la Cour suprême est appropriée. Je crois que le gouvernement Harper a violé les droits garantis à M. Khadr par la Charte, et qu’il continue de le faire. Il convenait également que la Cour respecte la séparation des pouvoirs et le rôle du gouvernement dans les affaires étrangères — comme elle l’a dit elle-même, elle laisse au gouvernement « une certaine latitude pour décider de la manière dont il convient de répondre ». Je suis ravie, toutefois, que la cour ait également déclaré être prête à prendre des mesures plus radicales si le gouvernement n’agit pas.
- Omar Khadr et les membres de sa famille ont agi et parlé de manière offensante pour de nombreux Canadiens, moi y comprise. Mais les principes juridiques que nous respectons, notamment la Charte des droits et libertés et les droits des citoyens canadiens, et le fait que le Canada adhère aux principes de droits international relatifs à la protection des enfants‑soldats doivent passer avant nos sentiments pour une personne. En fait, il est facile de s’en tenir à nos principes lorsque nous traitons avec des personnes sympathiques, mais c’est dans les situations difficiles que l’on peut mesurer la valeur et l’importance de nos principes. Si nous n’avons de grands principes que dans les situations faciles, ce ne sont pas vraiment des principes.
- Encore un mot sur les enfants-soldats : M. Khadr n’avait que 15 ans au moment de son arrestation (il y a de cela sept ans!). En vertu des définitions de droit international, il aurait dû être considéré comme un enfant-soldat. Selon le droit international que le Canada respecte, il n’aurait pas fallu intenter de poursuites contre lui. M. Khadr aurait dû être rapatrié au Canada de Guantanamo. L’an dernier, Stephen Harper a toutefois déclaré : « Pour être un enfant-soldat, vous devez faire partie d’une armée ». Il est insensé de croire qu’il est correct de protéger les enfants obligés à faire partie d’armées officielles, mais de refuser la même protection aux enfants engagés de force dans la guérilla ou les groupes terroristes. Malheureusement, il arrive trop souvent que des enfants soient contraints de participer à un conflit armé, officiel ou non. En tant que pays, le Canada doit, par obligation internationale et par principe, aider et protéger les enfants, peu importe le lieu ou le moment. Et ce, même si ces enfants et leur famille se comportent d’une façon que bon nombre d’entre nous désapprouvent.
* * * * * * * *
Martha Hall Findlay
Députée de Willowdale
Voici mes commentaires sur l’affaire Omar Khadr.
Le cas d’Omar Khadr
La Cour suprême du Canada a statué, à l’unanimité, que le gouvernement Harper a porté atteinte aux droits garantis à M. Khadr par la Charte, et que ces violations de la Constitution « se poursuivent à ce jour ».
La Cour n’a pas exigé le rapatriement de M. Khadr de la prison de Guantanamo, ayant plutôt décidé de respecter la séparation des pouvoirs et la réticence légitime des tribunaux à intervenir dans les questions relatives aux affaires étrangères. Toutefois, la Cour a clairement indiqué que le gouvernement devait remédier aux violations des droits garantis à M. Khadr par la Charte, mais elle laisse au gouvernement « une certaine latitude pour décider de la manière dont il convient de répondre ». La Cour a également fait savoir qu’elle a le pouvoir de prendre des mesures plus radicales si le gouvernement n’agit pas.
Position de Martha Hall Findlay
- La décision de la Cour suprême est appropriée. Je crois que le gouvernement Harper a violé les droits garantis à M. Khadr par la Charte, et qu’il continue de le faire. Il convenait également que la Cour respecte la séparation des pouvoirs et le rôle du gouvernement dans les affaires étrangères — comme elle l’a dit elle-même, elle laisse au gouvernement « une certaine latitude pour décider de la manière dont il convient de répondre ». Je suis ravie, toutefois, que la cour ait également déclaré être prête à prendre des mesures plus radicales si le gouvernement n’agit pas.
- Omar Khadr et les membres de sa famille ont agi et parlé de manière offensante pour de nombreux Canadiens, moi y comprise. Mais les principes juridiques que nous respectons, notamment la Charte des droits et libertés et les droits des citoyens canadiens, et le fait que le Canada adhère aux principes de droits international relatifs à la protection des enfants‑soldats doivent passer avant nos sentiments pour une personne. En fait, il est facile de s’en tenir à nos principes lorsque nous traitons avec des personnes sympathiques, mais c’est dans les situations difficiles que l’on peut mesurer la valeur et l’importance de nos principes. Si nous n’avons de grands principes que dans les situations faciles, ce ne sont pas vraiment des principes.
- Encore un mot sur les enfants-soldats : M. Khadr n’avait que 15 ans au moment de son arrestation (il y a de cela sept ans!). En vertu des définitions de droit international, il aurait dû être considéré comme un enfant-soldat. Selon le droit international que le Canada respecte, il n’aurait pas fallu intenter de poursuites contre lui. M. Khadr aurait dû être rapatrié au Canada de Guantanamo. L’an dernier, Stephen Harper a toutefois déclaré : « Pour être un enfant-soldat, vous devez faire partie d’une armée ». Il est insensé de croire qu’il est correct de protéger les enfants obligés à faire partie d’armées officielles, mais de refuser la même protection aux enfants engagés de force dans la guérilla ou les groupes terroristes. Malheureusement, il arrive trop souvent que des enfants soient contraints de participer à un conflit armé, officiel ou non. En tant que pays, le Canada doit, par obligation internationale et par principe, aider et protéger les enfants, peu importe le lieu ou le moment. Et ce, même si ces enfants et leur famille se comportent d’une façon que bon nombre d’entre nous désapprouvent.
* * * * * * * *
Martha Hall Findlay
Députée de Willowdale
28.1.10
MHF and Willowdale Team at CAPP Rally
Last Saturday, Martha and a group of us from Willowdale met up at Yonge-Dundas Square in Toronto along with thousands of other Canadians to protest Stephen Harper's decision to prorogue Parliament. We were there to demonstrate that we care about our democracy, and if necessary are willing to fight for it, as Michael Ignatieff said that same day in Ottawa.
Standing amidst the throngs of people crowding the square, it was hard to make a good estimate of exactly how many people turned out, but as our numbers kept filling the square and eventually spilled out onto the streets, it was clear that Canadians are anything but apathetic about their democracy. People of every age and from every walk of life had shown up because were not happy with the government's actions. Faced with mounting questions over his government's performance on issues such as torture in Afghanistan and the growing deficit, Stephen Harper was counting on the apathy of Canadians to be able to dodge scrutiny and criticism by shutting down Parliament. And clearly, he judged wrongly!
The rally we attended was the creation of Canadians Against Proroguing Parliament, a non-partisan grassroots coalition with a remarkable story. When Stephen Harper revealed quietly on New Year's Eve that he was shutting down Parliament until March, one university student from Alberta made an act of simple but honest protest: he started a Facebook group. Pundits dismissed this as irrelevant, saying no one really cared. But as more and more people joined, and the group passed 100,000, then 200,000 members, the actions of one citizen concerned for his democracy blossomed into a truly coast-to-coast movement uniting Canadians of every sort and sparking rallies across the country, including the one we attended.
One of the greatest privileges of volunteering alongside Martha is listening in as she converses with Canadians about the issues that are important to them--which is so integral to the job of a Member of Parliament. We met lots of people that afternoon who shared how fed up they had been with the decision to prorogue, but how warmed and inspired they had been to see the strength of this movement that had risen up. It was great to meet so many people share their concerns for the fundamentals of democracy, whether on the streets and squares during the event, or afterwards at Milestones and Future Shop!
Standing amidst the throngs of people crowding the square, it was hard to make a good estimate of exactly how many people turned out, but as our numbers kept filling the square and eventually spilled out onto the streets, it was clear that Canadians are anything but apathetic about their democracy. People of every age and from every walk of life had shown up because were not happy with the government's actions. Faced with mounting questions over his government's performance on issues such as torture in Afghanistan and the growing deficit, Stephen Harper was counting on the apathy of Canadians to be able to dodge scrutiny and criticism by shutting down Parliament. And clearly, he judged wrongly!
The rally we attended was the creation of Canadians Against Proroguing Parliament, a non-partisan grassroots coalition with a remarkable story. When Stephen Harper revealed quietly on New Year's Eve that he was shutting down Parliament until March, one university student from Alberta made an act of simple but honest protest: he started a Facebook group. Pundits dismissed this as irrelevant, saying no one really cared. But as more and more people joined, and the group passed 100,000, then 200,000 members, the actions of one citizen concerned for his democracy blossomed into a truly coast-to-coast movement uniting Canadians of every sort and sparking rallies across the country, including the one we attended.
One of the greatest privileges of volunteering alongside Martha is listening in as she converses with Canadians about the issues that are important to them--which is so integral to the job of a Member of Parliament. We met lots of people that afternoon who shared how fed up they had been with the decision to prorogue, but how warmed and inspired they had been to see the strength of this movement that had risen up. It was great to meet so many people share their concerns for the fundamentals of democracy, whether on the streets and squares during the event, or afterwards at Milestones and Future Shop!
-Ryan Krahn *For more photos see the Facebook album.
23.9.09
Our Democracy is Broken
"OUR DEMOCRACY IS BROKEN - Chronic Minorities, Constitutional Crises, Mindless Partisanship, Voter Indifference. HOW DO WE FIX IT?"
Tonight, Andrew Coyne, Paul Wells, Ed Broadbent, Eddie Goldenberg and John Raulston Saul will debate all of this in Toronto at the St. Lawrence Centre. Willowdale and Team MHF will be well-represented, me included--a group of us is going down to watch it live---I encourage others to join us.
Here's the link with the details.
If you can't come down, it will be aired live on CPAC.
Either way, it's going to be a lively debate!
- Martha
Tonight, Andrew Coyne, Paul Wells, Ed Broadbent, Eddie Goldenberg and John Raulston Saul will debate all of this in Toronto at the St. Lawrence Centre. Willowdale and Team MHF will be well-represented, me included--a group of us is going down to watch it live---I encourage others to join us.
Here's the link with the details.
If you can't come down, it will be aired live on CPAC.
Either way, it's going to be a lively debate!
- Martha
25.8.09
Cake Icing Shenanigans
You only get to turn 50 once, so it's a good thing to celebrate. It's even better when you have such a fabulous group of friends and supporters to celebrate with you. And it's even better than that, when you have friends who won't let you have a 50th birthday party without a little cake icing being tossed around. It is a testament to the fun we have in Willowdale that these particular "cake icing shenanigans" were started by someone who has been around for at least three more decades than I have. Jean, you are an inspiration :-)
More seriously, I want to say a big thank you to the Willowdale Liberal Riding Association for putting on a great birthday party for me, with a particular thank you, as always, to the Willowdale Liberal Women who do so much, all of the time. I am incredibly fortunate to have so many wonderful friends. Thank you!!
- Martha
23.7.09
Korean Canadian Liberal Association Gala
Congratulations to the Korean Canadian Liberal Association on the terrific Gala event last night, with big thanks to Justin Trudeau who gave the keynote speech. Thanks also to David Zimmer, MPP for Willowdale and Kathleen Wynne, Ontario Minister of Education and MPP for Don Valley West, both of whom came to show their support, with David also bringing greetings from Premier Dalton McGuinty. Congratulations to Sonny Cho, president of the KCLA and to all of the volunteers who helped create a such a successful and well-attended event--well done!! On a personal note, it was great for me to see so many friends, to be able to bring greetings and congratulations to the KCLA on behalf of Michael Ignatieff, and to do Justin's introduction. I didn't even have to mention that all you need to do is offer him kimchi and he'll come---he pretty much did that himself :-) I also took the opportunity to say thank you to the Korean Canadian community for being so extraordinarily warm and welcoming to me, as the relatively new MP for Willowdale, and how much I look forward to a long and strong future together. A great evening was had by all.
Here are a few photos from the night, more will be available on Flickr very soon!
16.6.09
2nd Annual Toronto Regional Day
Hi! My name is Ryan and I am a volunteer for TeamMHF. This Saturday, I was one of several Willowdale representatives at the 2nd Annual Toronto Regional Day organized by the Liberal Party of Canada (Ontario). “Ready to Win” was the event’s title, as the purpose of the day was to help prepare those of us at the grassroots level for an election campaign, if an election is called.
The lobby of the Ryerson University meeting room was buzzing when I arrived a few minutes before 8:30 in the morning. There were a lot of familiar faces present, including a number of people I recognized from the Vancouver convention in May. There wasn’t a lot of time of time for chatting over coffee, though, as the schedule was packed!
For the first break-out session of the day, we were assigned to tables with people from other ridings as well as our own. Along with several other Willowdaleans, I was seated with number of people from Etobicoke-Lakeshore, the riding of Michael Ignatieff, leader of the Liberal Party of Canada. We were given ten minutes to come up with an election preparedness plan given the hypothetical scenario of an election in six months. The mixed seating arrangement gave us the opportunity to exchange our ideas and our experiences from past campaigns.
After each table shared their plan, an “expert panel” composed of experienced past campaign managers provided advice and recommendations for improving the plan. Several more break-out sessions throughout the day continued on this theme, with variations on the time frame from 6 months to two days.
We broke in the middle of the day for a lunch of sandwiches and salads (which was included with registration!). This provided more opportunities to meet and chat with Liberals from all over the Toronto region.
The highlight of the day for me was a speech by Rocco Rossi, National Director of the Liberal Party of Canada. He spoke with great conviction about the challenges facing the party, but also about the huge strides that we have made. Mr. Rossi stated that the party needs for every Liberal in Canada to see themselves as personally responsible for the party’s future. He challenged each of us to recruit at least one new Liberal—which would double membership if everybody did this!
The event was a great opportunity to hear some expert advice from seasoned campaign runners. For me, the most helpful input came simply from connecting with people from other ridings in Toronto, sharing ideas and stories from past campaigns. I should mention that Eileen Shuchat, who is Toronto Region president for the LPC(O), did a great job in organizing the event and is actually from Willowdale herself! We left the event energized and ready to fight an election regardless of when the next one will be held.
- Ryan
The lobby of the Ryerson University meeting room was buzzing when I arrived a few minutes before 8:30 in the morning. There were a lot of familiar faces present, including a number of people I recognized from the Vancouver convention in May. There wasn’t a lot of time of time for chatting over coffee, though, as the schedule was packed!
For the first break-out session of the day, we were assigned to tables with people from other ridings as well as our own. Along with several other Willowdaleans, I was seated with number of people from Etobicoke-Lakeshore, the riding of Michael Ignatieff, leader of the Liberal Party of Canada. We were given ten minutes to come up with an election preparedness plan given the hypothetical scenario of an election in six months. The mixed seating arrangement gave us the opportunity to exchange our ideas and our experiences from past campaigns.
After each table shared their plan, an “expert panel” composed of experienced past campaign managers provided advice and recommendations for improving the plan. Several more break-out sessions throughout the day continued on this theme, with variations on the time frame from 6 months to two days.
We broke in the middle of the day for a lunch of sandwiches and salads (which was included with registration!). This provided more opportunities to meet and chat with Liberals from all over the Toronto region.
The highlight of the day for me was a speech by Rocco Rossi, National Director of the Liberal Party of Canada. He spoke with great conviction about the challenges facing the party, but also about the huge strides that we have made. Mr. Rossi stated that the party needs for every Liberal in Canada to see themselves as personally responsible for the party’s future. He challenged each of us to recruit at least one new Liberal—which would double membership if everybody did this!
The event was a great opportunity to hear some expert advice from seasoned campaign runners. For me, the most helpful input came simply from connecting with people from other ridings in Toronto, sharing ideas and stories from past campaigns. I should mention that Eileen Shuchat, who is Toronto Region president for the LPC(O), did a great job in organizing the event and is actually from Willowdale herself! We left the event energized and ready to fight an election regardless of when the next one will be held.
- Ryan
1.6.09
Canvass in Willowdale: a day of non-election, non-campaign door-knocking
In Willowdale, we have decided to some non-election, non-campaign door-knocking. We hope to do this about once a month, although after the success of our first one Saturday, we may do it even more often. It was great. We had a terrific group of volunteers out--Markus, Rose, Ken, Ryan, Katie, Allessia and Adrian--the weather was gorgeous, and most of all, the reaction was just great. A couple of people were nervous that an election had been called without them knowing it (!!) but once reassured no, they were genuinely pleased that we were out, without an election. It was such a good opportunity to just ask folks what they were concerned about; what issues were top of mind for them, etc.
We received some good ideas, some good suggestions, a few important concerns about the current government were raised---and we all really enjoyed ourselves. Thanks to all who came out, and thanks to all who opened their doors to engage in some discussion.
Watch for the next date for our "non-election" door-knocking (assuming, of course, that we'll still NOT be in an election). All are welcome to come out with us!
-Martha
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