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From colleague Paul Hunter: Jim Flaherty took a break from campaigning Thursday for meetings at the International Monetary Fund in Washington. What better chance for reporters there to ask big, important, worldly questions than at a post-meeting scrum with him.
With one of our CBC Washington reporters currently in Libya and the other (yours truly) working on another story, we sent a young intern to ask Flaherty a specific question about international finance. The intern happens to be from New Jersey and has been happily learning about all things Canadian here in our bureau the past few weeks.
We'd prepped him on the fact Flaherty is a senior minister and so he may have been a little nervous heading out. But when the scrum began his courage won the day and he bravely asked the question. Flaherty replied, in English of course.
But we'd also prepped our intern on the importance of ensuring Flaherty also answer the question in Canada's other official language, to in turn ensure it can be used by our friends at Radio-Canada.
The result, after the jump....
With one of our CBC Washington reporters currently in Libya and the other (yours truly) working on another story, we sent a young intern to ask Flaherty a specific question about international finance. The intern happens to be from New Jersey and has been happily learning about all things Canadian here in our bureau the past few weeks.
We'd prepped him on the fact Flaherty is a senior minister and so he may have been a little nervous heading out. But when the scrum began his courage won the day and he bravely asked the question. Flaherty replied, in English of course.
But we'd also prepped our intern on the importance of ensuring Flaherty also answer the question in Canada's other official language, to in turn ensure it can be used by our friends at Radio-Canada.
The result, after the jump....
Student at centre of rally screening furor wants to escape the 'craziness'
Tags: aswish aslam, canada votes 2011, conservatives, dimitri soudas, facebook, ndp, rally
From my colleague Allie Elwell:
Awish Aslam's life has changed dramatically since last Sunday.
Aslam, 19, left her adopted town of London, Ont., to spend the weekend with her parents in Hamilton.
"I just want to get away from all the craziness," she told CBC News. "And study for my exams, too."
The second-year political science student at the University of Western Ontario has been in the spotlight of the federal election campaign.
Her 15 minutes of Canadian political fame began when she and a friend were removed from a Stephen Harper rally in London.
Their offence? According to Aslam, smiling in a photo with Liberal Leader Michael Ignatieff, taken at a rally a few days before in London, on their Facebook profiles pages.
Fast forward to Friday, and new allegations surface in the Twitterverse that Aslam was involved with the NDP in the last federal election and, is an NDP insider.
The proof? Her email found is a list serve with other NDP folk related to the 2008 coalition.
Awish Aslam's life has changed dramatically since last Sunday.
Aslam, 19, left her adopted town of London, Ont., to spend the weekend with her parents in Hamilton.
"I just want to get away from all the craziness," she told CBC News. "And study for my exams, too."
The second-year political science student at the University of Western Ontario has been in the spotlight of the federal election campaign.
Her 15 minutes of Canadian political fame began when she and a friend were removed from a Stephen Harper rally in London.
Their offence? According to Aslam, smiling in a photo with Liberal Leader Michael Ignatieff, taken at a rally a few days before in London, on their Facebook profiles pages.
Fast forward to Friday, and new allegations surface in the Twitterverse that Aslam was involved with the NDP in the last federal election and, is an NDP insider.
The proof? Her email found is a list serve with other NDP folk related to the 2008 coalition.
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Below is an internal Tory caucus memo obtained by CBC news that was apparently sent out to Conservative MPs across the country to aid their defence of the corporate tax cuts opposition parties want rolled back. Be prepared to hear these talking points a lot, and then some more:
Jan. 23 Conservative memo on corporate tax cuts.doc
Jan. 23 Conservative memo on corporate tax cuts.doc
Ok, I know the whole Twitterverse has weighed in on the Conservative ads, including the PM's Hard Day's Night spot, but something about it, maybe just the pacing or lighting, struck me as eerily familiar:
And the
I watched it over and over again and couldn't help thinking about poor old Fred the Baker, the Dunkin Donuts manager who works tirelessly to ensure his customers don't have plain, tasteless "supermarket donuts," which we all know "just aren't enough..." What can I say? Television was my surrogate parent in the '80s:
And the
I watched it over and over again and couldn't help thinking about poor old Fred the Baker, the Dunkin Donuts manager who works tirelessly to ensure his customers don't have plain, tasteless "supermarket donuts," which we all know "just aren't enough..." What can I say? Television was my surrogate parent in the '80s:
Peter Mansbridge: You know, I'm not an economist,
you are. But I'm puzzled, and so, it appears, are some economists as to
how you can attack the deficit issue and the overall debt issue by
decreasing corporate taxes, by not increasing personal taxes. And at
least, so far, not attacking that size-of-government issue.
Prime Minister Stephen Harper: I was going to say, Peter, you were doing so well until now. Because you were - here, I had CBC attacking me from the right!
PM: I'm not attacking you. I'm just laying out the argument that comes from some of your supporters.
PMSH: But not very many. But let me let me respond to that one.
It is transparent as an economist that you're not going to grow our economy by raising taxes. You know, look at ourselves compared to the United States and others. Look at the job growth. Do you think that would continue if we started raising taxes on consumers and raising taxes on employers?
Several years ago, [Finance] Minister [Jim] Flaherty in concert with most of the other provinces - by the way, not just Conservative governments - Liberal governments, NDP governments - we set out to brand this country as having a 25 per cent business tax rate, shared federal/provincial. And that's what we've all - not all of us, but almost all of the senior levels of government, the senior governments in this country - have been aiming for and moving towards.
And why do we want that? Because it will put us in a good competitive position that will attract investment. But at the same time, over time, that will maximize revenue to the government. Raising our taxes will, you know, we can get some more revenue this year, but frankly it's going to make this a less competitive country, a less good place to invest.
Prime Minister Stephen Harper: I was going to say, Peter, you were doing so well until now. Because you were - here, I had CBC attacking me from the right!
PM: I'm not attacking you. I'm just laying out the argument that comes from some of your supporters.
PMSH: But not very many. But let me let me respond to that one.
It is transparent as an economist that you're not going to grow our economy by raising taxes. You know, look at ourselves compared to the United States and others. Look at the job growth. Do you think that would continue if we started raising taxes on consumers and raising taxes on employers?
Several years ago, [Finance] Minister [Jim] Flaherty in concert with most of the other provinces - by the way, not just Conservative governments - Liberal governments, NDP governments - we set out to brand this country as having a 25 per cent business tax rate, shared federal/provincial. And that's what we've all - not all of us, but almost all of the senior levels of government, the senior governments in this country - have been aiming for and moving towards.
And why do we want that? Because it will put us in a good competitive position that will attract investment. But at the same time, over time, that will maximize revenue to the government. Raising our taxes will, you know, we can get some more revenue this year, but frankly it's going to make this a less competitive country, a less good place to invest.
Peter Mansbridge: Prime Minister, I guess I should start with a congratulations: in a couple of days - five years since you first won office. But it's actually, you know, more than that, in the sense that it's five years almost to the day that you will have been leading a minority government in Canada.
No other prime minister has gone that long. I think you now edge out Lester Pearson. Does that mean something to you?
Prime Minister Stephen Harper: I think it's just an interesting statistic. You know, the minority Parliament's been interesting. I think we've demonstrated that it can work. It hasn't always been pretty. We don't get done everything we want to get done, or sometimes I think we need to get done. But I think for the most part considering what could have happened it's served Canadians fairly well.
You know I don't know what to say beyond that. It's just a statistic. I didn't get into this for longevity, you know, my focus is not on those kinds of things. It's obviously on the substance of what we're doing as a government.
Read the full transcript after the jump.
No other prime minister has gone that long. I think you now edge out Lester Pearson. Does that mean something to you?
Prime Minister Stephen Harper: I think it's just an interesting statistic. You know, the minority Parliament's been interesting. I think we've demonstrated that it can work. It hasn't always been pretty. We don't get done everything we want to get done, or sometimes I think we need to get done. But I think for the most part considering what could have happened it's served Canadians fairly well.
You know I don't know what to say beyond that. It's just a statistic. I didn't get into this for longevity, you know, my focus is not on those kinds of things. It's obviously on the substance of what we're doing as a government.
Read the full transcript after the jump.
Speed Read: Jan. 5, 2010 -- And we were shocked in the suburbs
Tags: 905, cabinet shuffle, gta, julian fantino, peter kent, speed read, stephen harper
As a one-time 905 kid, I find all this attention goes right to my rosy red winter cheeks:
Cabinet shuffle targets cherished 905 - Greg Weston, CBC News
A cabinet shufflette and the odds on a federal election - Don Newman, special to CBC News
A Harper majority and other perilous predictions for 2011 - Andrew Steele, Globe and Mail
And Peter Kent's new gig, from the Woohoo to the Boo-urns:
Kent perfect choice for environment portfolio - Terence Corcoran, National Post
For new minister Kent, it's a hostile environment - Randy Boswell, PostMedia News
Peter Kent: New climate spin master - Toronto Star
Cabinet shuffle targets cherished 905 - Greg Weston, CBC News
A cabinet shufflette and the odds on a federal election - Don Newman, special to CBC News
A Harper majority and other perilous predictions for 2011 - Andrew Steele, Globe and Mail
And Peter Kent's new gig, from the Woohoo to the Boo-urns:
Kent perfect choice for environment portfolio - Terence Corcoran, National Post
For new minister Kent, it's a hostile environment - Randy Boswell, PostMedia News
Peter Kent: New climate spin master - Toronto Star
Foreign Affairs Minister Lawrence Cannon on the death of veteran U.S. diplomat Richard Holbrooke:
"On behalf of the Government of Canada, I wish to offer my most sincere condolences to Mr. Holbrooke's family and friends. Mr. Holbrooke will be remembered for his commitment to the peaceful resolution of conflict in the former Yugoslavia.
"Today marks the 15th anniversary of the signing of the Dayton Accords, the agreement that Mr. Holbrooke brokered to end the war in Bosnia and open the door to stability and democracy for the people of the western Balkans.
"Canada worked very closely with Ambassador Holbrooke in his role as special advisor on Afghanistan and Pakistan to find meaningful, durable solutions to problems in this troubled region. His recent efforts in Afghanistan and Pakistan are an inspiration to all of us.
"Mr. Holbrooke was a trusted friend of Canada. We valued his views and counsel on the many issues that brought Canada and United States together to promote our common values in a world fraught with conflict and fragility."
"On behalf of the Government of Canada, I wish to offer my most sincere condolences to Mr. Holbrooke's family and friends. Mr. Holbrooke will be remembered for his commitment to the peaceful resolution of conflict in the former Yugoslavia.
"Today marks the 15th anniversary of the signing of the Dayton Accords, the agreement that Mr. Holbrooke brokered to end the war in Bosnia and open the door to stability and democracy for the people of the western Balkans.
"Canada worked very closely with Ambassador Holbrooke in his role as special advisor on Afghanistan and Pakistan to find meaningful, durable solutions to problems in this troubled region. His recent efforts in Afghanistan and Pakistan are an inspiration to all of us.
"Mr. Holbrooke was a trusted friend of Canada. We valued his views and counsel on the many issues that brought Canada and United States together to promote our common values in a world fraught with conflict and fragility."
Harper planned to approve BHP deal until political risks grew
too great -- Murray Mandryk, Regina Leader-Post
Potential immigrants stopped by job offer probe -- Curt Petrovich and John Nicol, CBC News
Government stays quiet about new security and trade deal with the U.S. -- John Ivison, National Post
Next federal budget will have no guidance from Parliament -- Bill Curry, Globe and Mail
Wounded soldiers fear service review -- David Pugliese, Ottawa Citizen
RCMP reportedly set to charge suspected migrant smugglers -- Stewart Bell, National Post
Would you let this man fly your plane? -- Aaron Wherry, Macleans.ca
Potential immigrants stopped by job offer probe -- Curt Petrovich and John Nicol, CBC News
Government stays quiet about new security and trade deal with the U.S. -- John Ivison, National Post
Next federal budget will have no guidance from Parliament -- Bill Curry, Globe and Mail
Wounded soldiers fear service review -- David Pugliese, Ottawa Citizen
RCMP reportedly set to charge suspected migrant smugglers -- Stewart Bell, National Post
Would you let this man fly your plane? -- Aaron Wherry, Macleans.ca
Just for fun, here's Liberal Senate Leader James Cowan's pre-Christmas card letter to Justice Minister Rob Nicholson, answering the criticisms that unelected partisans of the Red Chamber are holding up the government's anti-crime legislation. And to get your bearings, feel free to consult: Kady's breakdown on the progress of the government's crime-related bills in the Senate and HoC so far
Letter Cowan Nicholson December 2010 En
Letter Cowan Nicholson December 2010 En
Pratt & Whitney gets $300M federal investment - CBCNews.ca
A never-ending journey of a thousand miles begins with a thousand first steps -- Aaron Wherry, Macleans.ca
After G20, can we trust Police Chief Bill Blair again? National Post
What are the chances of a federal election in 2011? -- John Ibbitson, Globe and Mail
Why a backward approach makes city taxes go higher -- Kevin Libin, National Post
Opposition parties vow to defeat Human Smuggling Bill -- Tim Naumetz, Hill Times
Ottawa, banks discuss measures to rein in Canadians' personal debt -- Tara Perkins, Globe and Mail
From the weekend, in case you missed it:
Talk of security perimeter hits nerve -- Greg Weston, CBCNews.ca
A stark warning on the economy from Britain's former PM -- Doug Saunders, Globe and Mail
The promise and perils of being an energy superpower -- Don Newman, special to CBCNews.ca
A never-ending journey of a thousand miles begins with a thousand first steps -- Aaron Wherry, Macleans.ca
After G20, can we trust Police Chief Bill Blair again? National Post
What are the chances of a federal election in 2011? -- John Ibbitson, Globe and Mail
Why a backward approach makes city taxes go higher -- Kevin Libin, National Post
Opposition parties vow to defeat Human Smuggling Bill -- Tim Naumetz, Hill Times
Ottawa, banks discuss measures to rein in Canadians' personal debt -- Tara Perkins, Globe and Mail
From the weekend, in case you missed it:
Talk of security perimeter hits nerve -- Greg Weston, CBCNews.ca
A stark warning on the economy from Britain's former PM -- Doug Saunders, Globe and Mail
The promise and perils of being an energy superpower -- Don Newman, special to CBCNews.ca
The following is an email response from RCMP spokesperson Sgt. Julie Gagnon to questions from CBC News about the force's knowledge of the Public Works Protection Act, a controversial regulation updated and passed by the Ontario government giving police heightened powers during this summer's G20 summit in Toronto:
Q: When was the RCMP made aware of the PWPA?
A: A few months before the actual event, the RCMP was made aware that TPS [Toronto Police Service] was considering using the PWPA however; the RCMP was not consulted on if TPS would use the PWPA during the Summits. It was not raised at any operational meetings and the RCMP did not approve the use of the PWPA, it was a TPS decision.
Q: How was the Act explained to the RCMP?
A: The Act was not explained to the RCMP. All we knew is that it was an old Act that would allow TPS special powers to protect property.
Q: Why did TPS need the PWP Act when the RCMP decided not to use it?
A: Each partner in the ISU [Integrated Security Unit, headed by the RCMP] was responsible for preparing their personnel and operations to meet their obligations during the Summits. Please contact TPS for their decision on using the PWP Act. The RCMP was confident that our planning, resources and available lawful authorities in place to protect the visiting International Protected Persons and the public during the Summits were sufficient.
A: A few months before the actual event, the RCMP was made aware that TPS [Toronto Police Service] was considering using the PWPA however; the RCMP was not consulted on if TPS would use the PWPA during the Summits. It was not raised at any operational meetings and the RCMP did not approve the use of the PWPA, it was a TPS decision.
Q: How was the Act explained to the RCMP?
A: The Act was not explained to the RCMP. All we knew is that it was an old Act that would allow TPS special powers to protect property.
Q: Why did TPS need the PWP Act when the RCMP decided not to use it?
A: Each partner in the ISU [Integrated Security Unit, headed by the RCMP] was responsible for preparing their personnel and operations to meet their obligations during the Summits. Please contact TPS for their decision on using the PWP Act. The RCMP was confident that our planning, resources and available lawful authorities in place to protect the visiting International Protected Persons and the public during the Summits were sufficient.
From colleague Allie Elwell:
Christmas is fast approaching and with it comes parties, presents and photo-ops.
Wednesday morning's weekly Conservative caucus meeting had an extra element of joy with MPs spreading some holiday cheer.
Members and ministers filed in with gifts for Toy Mountain, a drive organized by the Salvation Army in more than 400 communities across Canada.
Public Safety Minister Vic Toews arrived with a giant fire truck -- a suitable gift from the former Manitoba Crown attorney. Treasury Board President Stockwell Day came ready with a gift bag for a young girl -- picked out with help from his wife he says.
The highlight of this season's gift-giving came when Prime Minister Stephen Harper added his contribution to Toy Mountain: a hockey stick.
Last year, the prime minister presented a number of gifts to the Salvation Army, but it seems like the first time the whole caucus has gotten involved, according to the PMO.
Later this evening, that same caucus will be gathering at the Crowne Plaza Hotel in downtown Ottawa for the annual Conservative Christmas party. Tickets sold out quickly, with some staff in the PMO not even able to get in.
Luckily for those not able to attend, the media have been invited to check out the prime minister's speech so we can all get a little taste of the festivities.
Christmas is fast approaching and with it comes parties, presents and photo-ops.
Wednesday morning's weekly Conservative caucus meeting had an extra element of joy with MPs spreading some holiday cheer.
Members and ministers filed in with gifts for Toy Mountain, a drive organized by the Salvation Army in more than 400 communities across Canada.
Public Safety Minister Vic Toews arrived with a giant fire truck -- a suitable gift from the former Manitoba Crown attorney. Treasury Board President Stockwell Day came ready with a gift bag for a young girl -- picked out with help from his wife he says.
The highlight of this season's gift-giving came when Prime Minister Stephen Harper added his contribution to Toy Mountain: a hockey stick.
Last year, the prime minister presented a number of gifts to the Salvation Army, but it seems like the first time the whole caucus has gotten involved, according to the PMO.
Later this evening, that same caucus will be gathering at the Crowne Plaza Hotel in downtown Ottawa for the annual Conservative Christmas party. Tickets sold out quickly, with some staff in the PMO not even able to get in.
Luckily for those not able to attend, the media have been invited to check out the prime minister's speech so we can all get a little taste of the festivities.
