How Much Is This Conservative Stall Going to Cost?
Back in December the majority of Parliament ordered the government to produce in their entirety the documents related to the Afghan detainee issue. Harper made clear he was going to defy that order and went so far as to prorogue Parliament in order to try to squash the issue.
He claimed the prorogue was to recalibrate the government’s direction and agenda. Having since seen that ‘recalibration’ via the Throne Speech and the budget, I don’t think anyone really truly believes the government did anything but stall and enjoy the Olympics.
So, parliament returns and in order to further flip the bird at the supremacy of parliament Harper, through his minion Rob Nicholson (Minister of Justice), is stalling by appointing respected jurist Frank Iacobucci to review the documents and rule if the documents are able to be released or not.
Other than Harper demonstrating his continuing disdain and disrespect for Parliament there is no reason for these documents not being released to the Opposition for review behind close doors. MPs of all stripes are required to maintain confidentiality of documents they are privy to as was the Military Commission who was originally charged with investigating this issue and blocked by the government from access to necessary documents in full.
So, from what I see, Harper continues to abuse the powers of his office, disrespect the supremacy of Parliament and behave like he has a right to ignore anyone but himself. I’m disappointed in the Opposition allowing this farce to move forward at a cost of $500-$600 per hour (pay to Mr. Iacobucci).
Backing away from enforcing the original motion for fear of Harper pulling the plug and calling an election is no excuse to allow Harper to continue to do as he pleases. Power is conferred and the Opposition continues to confer power to Harper that is not his to have.
Is no one smart enough in the Opposition ranks to come up with a counter proposal to an election and enough political will to unite against this usurper of power? There is little wonder why the polls have us languishing around in a virtual deadlock between the parties.
The country hungers for alternatives. When is someone going to deliver them?
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