Martin, Harper dispute same-sex marriage
Last Updated: Sunday, December 18, 2005 | 11:23 AM ET
CBC News
At a rally with Liberal candidates from the Lower Mainland, Martin portrayed Harper as lacking what it takes to be prime minister. "Stephen Harper last night said this was a phoney war of words, well let me tell you something, I don't think there's anything phoney about defending jobs in Canada."
Martin made no mention of NDP Leader Jack Layton. He devoted his entire speech to contrasting the Liberals with the Conservatives - on national unity, child care, handguns and the importance of protecting minority rights.
He and Harper sparred at a distance over same-sex marriage, with Martin characterizing it as a rights issue.
Liberal Leader Paul Martin salutes the crowd during a rally in Burnaby, B.C. on Saturday. (CP Photo)
"In my view if you won't protect the Charter of Rights and Freedoms then you have no business trying to become the prime minister of Canada," said Martin.
Martin's comment was aimed at Harper's previous statement that a Conservative government would again put same-sex marriage to a vote in Parliament.
Harper said Martin's comments meant disagreeing with Martin's view of same-sex marriage makes a person unfit to govern.
Liberal strategists insist that highlighting these distinctions will win over undecided voters. They also believe Martin's performance in the debates, along with the passion he shows for the country and being prime minister, matter to voters.
At a news conference, Martin said his Conservative rival is simply not up to the job. "Mr. Harper's problem is that on the one hand he does not appear to be prepared to defend Canada's interests, and on the other he's playing catchup on how one does support communities and Canadians."
