I Wrote To Mike Duffy Today

Not that he'll listen to me. But hell, I figure if he can publicize Conservative bloggers' talking points with no journalistic integrity, I might as well. My letter was short and sweet and to the point.

Have a peek:

To: duffy@ctv.ca

RE: Alleged Dion Plagiarism

I'm a little surprised that CTV didn't research this alleged Dion plagiarism a wee bit more. In fact, I am shocked about how irresponsible your report was - with no apparent regard for researching the entire Dion speech and the source of the speech.

Plagiarism, definition of: Plagiarism is the unauthorized use or close imitation of the language and thoughts of another author and the representation of them as one's own original work.

Firstly, Stephane Dion fully acknowledged the work of the report in question during the content of his speech.

"We recognize the importance of the Arctic Council in addressing the many common concerns and challenges emerging from climate change and providing a forum for collective action on shared priorities.

Not only does the Arctic Council engage Arctic nations, it also includes six Permanent Participants that represent Northern indigenous peoples who actively bring their voice to the work of the Council. This inclusive process ensures that steps forward to protect our shared Arctic will integrate social, cultural, health and economic components.

Last November, the Arctic Climate Impact Assessment was received at the fourth Arctic Council Ministerial meeting in Reykjavik, Iceland. This is the first climate assessment of the Arctic - a result of four years of international efforts from over 300 scientists, as well as traditional knowledge of Northern Indigenous peoples.

The Assessment confirms what our own science and the people of the Arctic have been telling us for many years. "

The Arctic Council, Mike, commissioned this report. Canada is one of eight nations that belong to the council. Previous Environment Canada Reports were utilized in the body of the alleged plagiarized report. Mr. Dion was the Minister of Environment and was entitled to use any and all parts of that report.

This is nothing like Mr. Harper's gaffe. In fact, it is not even close to plagiarism, as he fully acknowledges the group (again, Canada is a member of) that sponsored the report in the first place.

Secondly, Robert Corell was not the author of the report and he, himself was simply reading findings within the report at the US Senate committee hearings.

I've written more details here: http://whatdoiknowgrit.blogspot.com/2008/10/irrational-posts-kelly-mcparland-should.html

Recap: It can't be plagiarism if you acknowledge the work of the group that wrote the report and, you (Canada) are a member of said group and a contributing partner (Environment Canada).

The bloggers that submitted this to you Mike have not been very forthcoming in this and are defaming a man of integrity that has been a voice of change for the Environment of our country and our planet.

Shame on CTV for giving into this gossip without even doing any required journalistic research. You owe Mr. Dion an apology. Just my opinion.