Hmmm.

[c9]

Paul Martin just stirred my soul. It's not often politicians do that, despite their attempts. For those watching the debates, it was his "This is my country" rhetoric. Problem is, he doesn't have to convince English-speaking Canadians. He needs to convince French-speaking Quebecers, and I don't think they're watching this quite so closely.

Comments

[c9.livejournal.com]

It is annoying to see how all politicians tell different stories to different crowds. But everybody does it, and nobody wins without that behaviour, so I don't find it shocking.

In your opinion, what strategy works best for reducing sovereigntist sentiment? jean Chrétien played it calm, then almost lost the 95 referendum. Then he played it serious with the Clarity Act, which Martin was against, and separatist sentiment seemed to fall (perhaps coincidentally).

[c9.livejournal.com]

Very interesting, thanks.

Here's a question for you: what's the "fiscal imbalance" ? I know what it means, but what exactly is the problem that Québecers see? Québec received far more money than it gives, federally speaking. Only Ontario and Alberta actually lose money on the deal. When I hear some sovereigntists complaining about money, I wonder if they know something I don't.

One worry I have, but I'm not sure how realistic it is, is this: if power was decentralized, not just as it legally should be according to the constitution that Québec didn't sign yet wishes to be followed in separation of powers, but actually decentralized as far as anyone might want, why would any province bother to help out any other province? Alberta becomes kingpin, Ontario stays strong with economy and population, but the prairies, the north, and the east all fall apart. Even Québec would suffer. How could provinces be convinced to still maintain the federation if they already had all the power?

I do agree that the entire game needs to change. Simply playing according to the current rules, whether you choose appeasement or antagonism, will not work. Québec really would separate, as would the west eventually, and Canada would cease to be. That would really suck.

[mightycodking.livejournal.com]

I believe BC is also a net giver now.

[simplisticton.livejournal.com]

Paul Martin just stirred my soul.

Better than Harper taking it.