We here at TWDIKG started comparing Harper to Nixon waaaay back in April 'O8. And, in November, 2008, there were still very few listening to our Nixon comparisons. I guess they're listening now.
Thursday, May 28, 2009
All this Talk About Nixon
Today we hear some comparisons to Richard Nixon. We even had a blogger saying it wasn't fair to Nixon.
We here at TWDIKG started comparing Harper to Nixon waaaay back in April 'O8. And, in November, 2008, there were still very few listening to our Nixon comparisons. I guess they're listening now.
We here at TWDIKG started comparing Harper to Nixon waaaay back in April 'O8. And, in November, 2008, there were still very few listening to our Nixon comparisons. I guess they're listening now.
Ottawa to sell AECL's nuclear branch
What a shock. NOT!
Some might say we knew this all along. But, what do we know anyway. Nice way to help reduce a deficit. What's a nuclear body worth anyway these days?
Some might say we knew this all along. But, what do we know anyway. Nice way to help reduce a deficit. What's a nuclear body worth anyway these days?
Can Senator Duffy Be Impeached?
If the network you were an employee of helped you turn an election on its ear and you, in turn, were granted a Senate seat, and less that 9 months later, you were found in breach of your industry's code of ethics, is there grounds for the Canadian people to ask for your removal????
At the very least, does Stephane Dion have some sort of legal recourse against CTV, Senator Mike Duffy, and or Steve Murphy? Is there a fine to be paid by these people like there is in every other industry when a violation of the code of ethics occurs?
Many of us were disgusted at the time by Steve Murphy and Mike Duffy's exploitation of a situation caused by less than perfect English on the part of Murphy. Some of us even started Facebook Groups and the likes.
Others told us all to chill:
DEAR ANGRY LIBERALS
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Imagine that!?! We Liberal bloggers were whinny and silly. Whinny and silly over a TSN turning point in the whole entire election. Silly when Stephane Dion understood English better than his interviewer. Silly to call for a boycott of Liberal guests on CTV. Silly that we all knew Duffy was going to the Senate because of it. Silly that they took a great man with a PhD. and made him look like an imbecile and not so much as issued an apology. Silly that we all knew the Liberals were on an upswing in the polls and this interview lost us some very close battles nationwide because this clip got played over and over and over and over and over and over and over again...even by CBC!
Duffy even took it a step further when he turned to his panel and asked how this man could run the country if he can't understand a simple question. Poor Geoff Regan was in shock and had no idea what this ambush was about.
As for "mainstream media conspiracies"? I think when one of the players gets appointed to the senate within 2 months of the election, it's safe to say he had a vested interest in destroying a national political party for personal gain.
At the very least, does Stephane Dion have some sort of legal recourse against CTV, Senator Mike Duffy, and or Steve Murphy? Is there a fine to be paid by these people like there is in every other industry when a violation of the code of ethics occurs?
Many of us were disgusted at the time by Steve Murphy and Mike Duffy's exploitation of a situation caused by less than perfect English on the part of Murphy. Some of us even started Facebook Groups and the likes.
Others told us all to chill:
DEAR ANGRY LIBERALS
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Wednesday, October 22, 2008, 09:28 AM
A lot of Liberal friends are angry with CTV for the stunt they pulled with Stéphane Dion at the end of the campaign, and for their apparent enthusiasm for the likes of Messrs. LeDrew and Heard et al. And things like that.
They should be: CTV broke their journalistic word with the Dion interview, and their reliance on the likes of LeDrew and Heard doesn't serve their audience very well (although I suppose it's entertaining). But to fulminate and froth about CTV, as assorted Grits are now doing, makes you sound like crazy Blogging Tory fringe people, going on and on about mainstream media conspiracies.
Here's what I know:
• the head of CTV, Ivan Fecan, headed a major fundraiser for Jean Chrétien
• one of his senior Vice Presidents, Paul Sparkes, was Chrétien's Director of Operations
• the network's pollster, Peter Donolo, was Chrétien's Director of Communications
• Craig Oliver was one of the closest people to Pierre Trudeau, and used to go on annual canoe trips with him
• Jane Taber used to be regularly mocked by Frank magazine for being a Liberal shill
• Roger Smith's wife was a senior aide to Trudeau
• Jim Munson, a Liberal Senator, became a Chrétien aide after leaving a senior spot at CTV
• Mike Duffy is a creampuff, and has loyal friends in every party
• Seamus O'Regan hangs out with Justin Trudeau and Dalton McGuinty's former Principal Secretary
• Rosemary Thompson is a sweetheart, and used to date Liberals at Carleton (the shame!)
• Bob Fife would take down anyone, if they deserved it, regardless of party affiliation
And so on, and so on. Get the picture? CTV makes mistakes, like any big organization does. But to attack them all the time - like marginal Conservatives do - is dumb.
They do their job, you do yours. Get on with it, and stop the whining. It’s silly.
Imagine that!?! We Liberal bloggers were whinny and silly. Whinny and silly over a TSN turning point in the whole entire election. Silly when Stephane Dion understood English better than his interviewer. Silly to call for a boycott of Liberal guests on CTV. Silly that we all knew Duffy was going to the Senate because of it. Silly that they took a great man with a PhD. and made him look like an imbecile and not so much as issued an apology. Silly that we all knew the Liberals were on an upswing in the polls and this interview lost us some very close battles nationwide because this clip got played over and over and over and over and over and over and over again...even by CBC!
Duffy even took it a step further when he turned to his panel and asked how this man could run the country if he can't understand a simple question. Poor Geoff Regan was in shock and had no idea what this ambush was about.
As for "mainstream media conspiracies"? I think when one of the players gets appointed to the senate within 2 months of the election, it's safe to say he had a vested interest in destroying a national political party for personal gain.
At Least Stephane Dion Called Harper a Liar to His Face
During the 2008 election, in a televised debate, Stephane Dion called Stephen Harper a liar. Dion claimed Harper was lying about the economy. The press, rather than taking Harper to task, ridiculed Dion for accusing the PM of being a liar.
A month after the election, Dion continued his assault on the PM. The press? They sat by and watched.
Speaking of Assholes in the Press:
At any rate, the former leader of the Liberal Party of Canada did NOT lie to the Canadian people, he WARNED them. And the MSM should all give their heads a shake for what they did to that poor fellow.
A month after the election, Dion continued his assault on the PM. The press? They sat by and watched.
Speaking of Assholes in the Press:
At any rate, the former leader of the Liberal Party of Canada did NOT lie to the Canadian people, he WARNED them. And the MSM should all give their heads a shake for what they did to that poor fellow.
Wednesday, May 27, 2009
During a Nuclear Disaster Con Minister Raitt Gets Free Trip to Paris
Don Martin is one of the only MSM people in Canada that has followed this nuclear disaster known as Chalk River since the very early days of the Linda Keen firing. He titles his latest piece "Why no Chalk River urgency?"
In contrast, we here at TWDIKG have been all over this story trying to get it to the floor of the HoC since reports of the first leak came public. We have learned, however, that there just might be some action on this by some Liberal MPs during upcoming QP sessions this week.
Here's some highlights from Martin's article:
Wow. a free trip to Paris!
Come on. It's the economy stupid. Who cares if people in the Ottawa River area glow in the dark and 400,000 medical procedures are cancelled?
Come on Don. We have nominations to fight and money to raise. And there's more important issues at the HoC like nannies and such. What the hell are you thinking?
In contrast, we here at TWDIKG have been all over this story trying to get it to the floor of the HoC since reports of the first leak came public. We have learned, however, that there just might be some action on this by some Liberal MPs during upcoming QP sessions this week.
Here's some highlights from Martin's article:
When confronted by predictions of medical mayhem from her opponents in the House of Commons, Ms. Raitt's words translate roughly into "Crisis? What crisis?" as she points to her "five-point plan" for handling this sort of isotope supply interruption.
This grand plan is actually a one-page ministerial statement that, among other modest moves, pledges to "ensure that Canada plays a leadership role in the planned discussions" in Paris over security of isotope supply.
Wow. a free trip to Paris!
Prime Minister Stephen Harper cautioned in 2007 that this particular reactor's shutdown would "jeopardize the health and safety and lives of tens of thousands of Canadians," yet he has yet to respond to the current crisis in the Commons.
Former health minister Tony Clement warned "every day counts in this situation. Two or three days works out to something like 210,000 procedures worldwide." Yet the current health minister spent yesterday banning flavoured tobacco product and discussing Governor-General Michaelle Jean's symbolic dining on a raw seal heart.
Come on. It's the economy stupid. Who cares if people in the Ottawa River area glow in the dark and 400,000 medical procedures are cancelled?
It's not only the government shrugging off this ugly scenario. Despite experts calling it a "catastrophe in the making," the Chalk River shutdown has rated just three questions in the House of Commons this week.
Come on Don. We have nominations to fight and money to raise. And there's more important issues at the HoC like nannies and such. What the hell are you thinking?
Tuesday, May 26, 2009
Obama nominates Sotomayor to Supreme Court
Here's here wiki: http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Sonia_Sotomayor
LiberalsONLINE.ca welcomes "Thus Magazine"
US blogger "THUS" has joined the Liberalsonline.ca blog aggregator community as a Featured Liberal Blogger. Stop by their blog and say hello sometime.
Liberals Are Losing their "Election Window"
Well this is certainly a new and interesting point of view from the Conservatives. Essentially daring the Libs to force an election.
Monday, May 25, 2009
Sunday, May 24, 2009
I Like Michael Bryant
...and it probably wasn't an easy decision to give up a cabinet position AND a riding that victory is always likely assured. Plus, he came to my ONTARIO! Ours to Recover bash in BC.
I guess I have to at least ask: Why the weekend news release?
I guess I have to at least ask: Why the weekend news release?
STATEMENT BY ONTARIO PREMIER DALTON MCGUINTY
News
May 23, 2009
I want to thank Michael Bryant for his years of dedicated public service, for his great passion for our democratic traditions, and for working hard to create opportunity and build a better quality of life for Ontario families.
Michael informed me on Friday that he was going to step aside as Minister of Economic Development in order to pursue a new career as the President and CEO of the City of Toronto’s new economic development agency — Invest Toronto. I will be assuming his responsibilities for the Ministry of Economic Development.
Since he was first elected to the Ontario legislature in 1999, Michael has been a tireless advocate for the families in his riding of St. Paul ’s. He has served in the Ontario cabinet in three challenging ministries — Attorney General, Aboriginal Affairs, and Economic Development — in addition to heading up Ontario ’s Democratic Renewal Secretariat. Michael has always tackled each new role with his trademark enthusiasm, intelligence and energy.
I know Michael will bring the same level of passion, insight and commitment to his new role with Invest Toronto that he has brought to the provincial government. I wish Michael, his wife Susan Abramovitch and their kids Sadie and Louis all the best as they begin this latest chapter of their lives, together.
-30-
Saturday, May 23, 2009
Liberal Nomination Season is Upon Us
Let the games begin.....
Over the next couple weeks there are 4, count 'em, 4 nominations.
Oak Ridges -- Markham - May 26, 2009 My good buddy Lui Temelkovski
Mississauga Erindale - May 27, 2009 My other buddy Omar Alghabra
Kitchener Centre - May 29, 2009 Karen Redman?
Kitchener Waterloo - June 14, 2009 Could it be Telegdi again?
Anywho, the speculation begins.
Over the next couple weeks there are 4, count 'em, 4 nominations.
Oak Ridges -- Markham - May 26, 2009 My good buddy Lui Temelkovski
Mississauga Erindale - May 27, 2009 My other buddy Omar Alghabra
Kitchener Centre - May 29, 2009 Karen Redman?
Kitchener Waterloo - June 14, 2009 Could it be Telegdi again?
Anywho, the speculation begins.
Friday, May 22, 2009
While Rome is Burning "All the Conservatives can think of is attack ads"
This appears to be the Liberal talking points these days.
EI is broken and "All the Conservatives can think of is attack ads".
Chalk River is leaking and "All the Conservatives can think of is attack ads"
Sri Lanka is burning and "All the Conservatives can think of is attack ads"
I bought a pet rock and "All the Conservatives can think of is attack ads"
Last night while watching Pittsburgh slap Carolina, I decided to keep tabs on just how many times the "All the Conservatives can think of is attack ads" ran. On three separate stations, the ad ran 19 times between 7:30pm to 1:00am. I noted that the ad ran 14 times on Tuesday night between 8pm and 11pm (American Idol and TSN). Naturally, there is no formal count that I've seen publicized, but I think that these "All the Conseratives can think of is attack ads" are running early and often enough to define our fearless leader well enough.
Anyway, I read a book once that kind of said something like "define, or be defined" - or something like that. I think the guy that wrote that book is working up in Ottawa once in a while these days.
Not that I know anything, but "All the Conservatives can think of is attack ads" is not the response Joe Average is hearing. In fact all they're hearing is "JUST VISITING".
This will be election #4 that the Cons have managed to define a Liberal leader with next to no response. The first, Paul Martin was dwindled down from his supposed 200 seats to a minority government. The second, PMPM was defeated. The third almost resulted in a Conservative Majority. And this upcoming fourth? Well, define, or be defined.
EI is broken and "All the Conservatives can think of is attack ads".
Chalk River is leaking and "All the Conservatives can think of is attack ads"
Sri Lanka is burning and "All the Conservatives can think of is attack ads"
I bought a pet rock and "All the Conservatives can think of is attack ads"
Last night while watching Pittsburgh slap Carolina, I decided to keep tabs on just how many times the "All the Conservatives can think of is attack ads" ran. On three separate stations, the ad ran 19 times between 7:30pm to 1:00am. I noted that the ad ran 14 times on Tuesday night between 8pm and 11pm (American Idol and TSN). Naturally, there is no formal count that I've seen publicized, but I think that these "All the Conseratives can think of is attack ads" are running early and often enough to define our fearless leader well enough.
Anyway, I read a book once that kind of said something like "define, or be defined" - or something like that. I think the guy that wrote that book is working up in Ottawa once in a while these days.
Not that I know anything, but "All the Conservatives can think of is attack ads" is not the response Joe Average is hearing. In fact all they're hearing is "JUST VISITING".
This will be election #4 that the Cons have managed to define a Liberal leader with next to no response. The first, Paul Martin was dwindled down from his supposed 200 seats to a minority government. The second, PMPM was defeated. The third almost resulted in a Conservative Majority. And this upcoming fourth? Well, define, or be defined.
Thursday, May 21, 2009
While Chalk River Dies, the Solution is in Front of Our Noses
The world isotope shortage (short form for the Cons want to privatize Chalk River) can be fixed right here at home. That is to say, right here at McMaster University.
Wednesday, May 20, 2009
Justin! Justin! Justin!
2 Weeks later....we've yet to hear who will be the new critic for Youth and Multiculturalism.
I guess, by now, you've figured out who I think should get the job?
Letter from the Editor: Dear Mr. Mulroney
The Globe and Mail's Edward Greenspon addresses Brian Mulroney's mention of the newspaper in Tuesday's testimony
Globe and Mail Update
May 19, 2009 at 11:44 PM EDT
Dear Mr. Wolson,
I am writing to you in your capacity as Lead Commission Counsel. I resisted the urge to write to you last week when there was an unsubstantiated allegation made that Greg McArthur, the Globe and Mail reporter covering the Inquiry, was seen giggling during Mr. Mulroney's testimony. I can assure you those allegations were completely without any foundation and, indeed, Mr. Mulroney's spokesman had to admit that although he was collecting photographic evidence in the hearing room, he had no photo of the alleged moment in question. In any case, since this allegation was not made in evidence before the Commissioner I decided not to pursue it.
However, because Mr. Mulroney made certain comments concerning The Globe and Mail in evidence before the Commissioner today, I now feel compelled to write to you to correct the record. In his testimony today, Mr Mulroney made reference to a supposed fourth article in the November 2003 series authored by William Kaplan and suggested this article, on which he "was counting very heavily," was suppressed by the Globe. There was no such fourth article ever contemplated. The number of articles in the series was always three.
It may be that what Mr. Mulroney is referring to is information he offered me in an effort to induce The Globe and Mail not to publish Mr. Kaplan's third article revealing that Mr. Mulroney had accepted cash payments from Mr. Schreiber. When he found out that the Globe intended to publish Mr. Kaplan's story, Mr. Mulroney contacted me several times trying to appeal to me not to publish the story. In at least one of the conversations, Mr. Mulroney offered to trade me information about a story that he said was explosive and would be of greater interest to The Globe than Mr. Kaplan's story about the cash payments.
Mulroney tried to block Globe article about cash
As can be surmised from what has occured since, the Globe emphatically declined Mr. Mulroney's offer of information in exchange for suppressing Mr. Kaplan's story. I told Mr. Mulroney that if the story he was offering was true and verifiable that it would be in his interest to tell it to me in any case and that we would pursue it. He did and we did. Unfortunately, it was not verifiable.
The information from Mr. Mulroney also was not provided in sufficient time for it to have possibly been checked out and included in the series called Secret No More. This was never contemplated. Mr. Kaplan refers to independent discussions he had on the same subject on page 129 of his book, A Secret Trial. He also concluded there was not sufficient grounds to justify the story.
As your office has been advised, because Mr. Mulroney has chosen to make the erroneous allegation about there being a fourth story public, The Globe will be releasing this letter to the public. We trust this assists in clarifying matters.
Sincerely,
Edward Greenspon
Editor-in-chief
The Globe and Mail
Globe and Mail Update
May 19, 2009 at 11:44 PM EDT
Dear Mr. Wolson,
I am writing to you in your capacity as Lead Commission Counsel. I resisted the urge to write to you last week when there was an unsubstantiated allegation made that Greg McArthur, the Globe and Mail reporter covering the Inquiry, was seen giggling during Mr. Mulroney's testimony. I can assure you those allegations were completely without any foundation and, indeed, Mr. Mulroney's spokesman had to admit that although he was collecting photographic evidence in the hearing room, he had no photo of the alleged moment in question. In any case, since this allegation was not made in evidence before the Commissioner I decided not to pursue it.
However, because Mr. Mulroney made certain comments concerning The Globe and Mail in evidence before the Commissioner today, I now feel compelled to write to you to correct the record. In his testimony today, Mr Mulroney made reference to a supposed fourth article in the November 2003 series authored by William Kaplan and suggested this article, on which he "was counting very heavily," was suppressed by the Globe. There was no such fourth article ever contemplated. The number of articles in the series was always three.
It may be that what Mr. Mulroney is referring to is information he offered me in an effort to induce The Globe and Mail not to publish Mr. Kaplan's third article revealing that Mr. Mulroney had accepted cash payments from Mr. Schreiber. When he found out that the Globe intended to publish Mr. Kaplan's story, Mr. Mulroney contacted me several times trying to appeal to me not to publish the story. In at least one of the conversations, Mr. Mulroney offered to trade me information about a story that he said was explosive and would be of greater interest to The Globe than Mr. Kaplan's story about the cash payments.
Mulroney tried to block Globe article about cash
As can be surmised from what has occured since, the Globe emphatically declined Mr. Mulroney's offer of information in exchange for suppressing Mr. Kaplan's story. I told Mr. Mulroney that if the story he was offering was true and verifiable that it would be in his interest to tell it to me in any case and that we would pursue it. He did and we did. Unfortunately, it was not verifiable.
The information from Mr. Mulroney also was not provided in sufficient time for it to have possibly been checked out and included in the series called Secret No More. This was never contemplated. Mr. Kaplan refers to independent discussions he had on the same subject on page 129 of his book, A Secret Trial. He also concluded there was not sufficient grounds to justify the story.
As your office has been advised, because Mr. Mulroney has chosen to make the erroneous allegation about there being a fourth story public, The Globe will be releasing this letter to the public. We trust this assists in clarifying matters.
Sincerely,
Edward Greenspon
Editor-in-chief
The Globe and Mail
Tuesday, May 19, 2009
Chalk River Nuclear, Silkwood III and Lisa Raitt
Thank God Halton elected the incompetent and reckless Conservative Lisa Raitt! Minister Raitt is in charge of the ever-disconcerting and ongoing natural disaster known as the Chalk River Nuclear plant.
Linda Kean warned of this disaster long, long ago and was immediately dispatched by the Conservative Government. I'm certain she'll win a lawsuit in the future for this very reason. Minister Raitt has been playing plug the leak for her entire tenure. The minister should dismiss herself from her position and apologize to the Canadian public.
We here at TWDIKG have been on this sorry story since the FIRST leak back in December '08. Apparently to no avail... that is, until now.
Subject: NEWS RELEASE - COMMUNIQUÉ
Sent: May 19, 2009 17:13
[LE FRANÇAIS SUIT L'ANGLAIS]
For immediate release
May 19th 2009
Latest Chalk River shutdown and delayed public notification poses health and safety risk to Canadians
Canadians were only informed today about last Thursday's radiation leak and unscheduled shutdown of the Chalk River Laboratories' NRU reactor, highlighting the Conservative government's continued failure to provide Canadians with a safe and reliable supply of medical isotopes, according to Liberal Party critics.
On Friday evening, a posting on the Atomic Energy of Canada Ltd. (AECL) website - not a public media release - noted that the NRU reactor at Chalk River had shut down unexpectedly on Thursday due to a power outage and was unable to restart due to a heavy-water leak. This is the third such leak in the last 6 months. The reactor is scheduled to remain shut-down for at least a month.
"One leak at any time should be of great concern to Canadians," said Geoff Regan, Liberal Natural Resources critic, "but the third leak in 6 months and the public only learns about it 4 days after the fact? It is unacceptable that the Harper government did not immediately inform Canadians."
The NRU reactor supplies the vast majority of the world's supply of medical isotopes, which are used in hospitals across the globe to diagnose various diseases. Three days after the initial incident, the government finally informed other suppliers of the coming shortage. With the supply now threatened, Canada needs a back-up plan, but there doesn't appear to be one, says Carolyn Bennett, Liberal Health critic.
A Dutch reactor, which supplies 60% of Europe's medical isotope supply, is currently under repair and not operating at full capacity, leaving many questions unanswered.
"This government has no plan to deal with another isotope crisis," said Dr. Bennett. "Is there a plan to deal with a month-long shutdown at Chalk River? Can this government offer any hope to Canadians that they have a strategy to ensure Canada continues to be a world-leader in nuclear medicine? Based on the government's handling of this file, the answer to each of these questions is a resounding 'no'."
Environment critic David McGuinty expressed further concern at how the information was released - not through a wide public release by AECL or the Canadian Nuclear Safety Commission, but through brief postings on their websites.
"Canadians have a right to be immediately notified about any type of nuclear leak - no matter its type, size, or level of radioactivity. Given the aging conditions at Chalk River, its recent history, and its proximity to the Ottawa Valley and its over one million inhabitants, anything less than proactive transparency will only exacerbate a situation such as this."
All three Liberal MPs called on the government to implement a contingency plan for medical isotopes, so that Canada is prepared not only for the potential problems of today, but continues to lead the global community in the field of nuclear medicine for years to come.
www.OnProbation.ca
-30-
Contact :
Office of Geoff Regan, MP
(613) 996-3085
Office of Carolyn Bennett, MP
(613) 995-9666
Office of David McGuinty, MP
(613) 992-3269
I'm not sure who will be running against Lisa Raitt in the next election, but I sure wish it were me.
Linda Kean warned of this disaster long, long ago and was immediately dispatched by the Conservative Government. I'm certain she'll win a lawsuit in the future for this very reason. Minister Raitt has been playing plug the leak for her entire tenure. The minister should dismiss herself from her position and apologize to the Canadian public.
We here at TWDIKG have been on this sorry story since the FIRST leak back in December '08. Apparently to no avail... that is, until now.
Subject: NEWS RELEASE - COMMUNIQUÉ
Sent: May 19, 2009 17:13
[LE FRANÇAIS SUIT L'ANGLAIS]
For immediate release
May 19th 2009
Latest Chalk River shutdown and delayed public notification poses health and safety risk to Canadians
Canadians were only informed today about last Thursday's radiation leak and unscheduled shutdown of the Chalk River Laboratories' NRU reactor, highlighting the Conservative government's continued failure to provide Canadians with a safe and reliable supply of medical isotopes, according to Liberal Party critics.
On Friday evening, a posting on the Atomic Energy of Canada Ltd. (AECL) website - not a public media release - noted that the NRU reactor at Chalk River had shut down unexpectedly on Thursday due to a power outage and was unable to restart due to a heavy-water leak. This is the third such leak in the last 6 months. The reactor is scheduled to remain shut-down for at least a month.
"One leak at any time should be of great concern to Canadians," said Geoff Regan, Liberal Natural Resources critic, "but the third leak in 6 months and the public only learns about it 4 days after the fact? It is unacceptable that the Harper government did not immediately inform Canadians."
The NRU reactor supplies the vast majority of the world's supply of medical isotopes, which are used in hospitals across the globe to diagnose various diseases. Three days after the initial incident, the government finally informed other suppliers of the coming shortage. With the supply now threatened, Canada needs a back-up plan, but there doesn't appear to be one, says Carolyn Bennett, Liberal Health critic.
A Dutch reactor, which supplies 60% of Europe's medical isotope supply, is currently under repair and not operating at full capacity, leaving many questions unanswered.
"This government has no plan to deal with another isotope crisis," said Dr. Bennett. "Is there a plan to deal with a month-long shutdown at Chalk River? Can this government offer any hope to Canadians that they have a strategy to ensure Canada continues to be a world-leader in nuclear medicine? Based on the government's handling of this file, the answer to each of these questions is a resounding 'no'."
Environment critic David McGuinty expressed further concern at how the information was released - not through a wide public release by AECL or the Canadian Nuclear Safety Commission, but through brief postings on their websites.
"Canadians have a right to be immediately notified about any type of nuclear leak - no matter its type, size, or level of radioactivity. Given the aging conditions at Chalk River, its recent history, and its proximity to the Ottawa Valley and its over one million inhabitants, anything less than proactive transparency will only exacerbate a situation such as this."
All three Liberal MPs called on the government to implement a contingency plan for medical isotopes, so that Canada is prepared not only for the potential problems of today, but continues to lead the global community in the field of nuclear medicine for years to come.
www.OnProbation.ca
-30-
Contact :
Office of Geoff Regan, MP
(613) 996-3085
Office of Carolyn Bennett, MP
(613) 995-9666
Office of David McGuinty, MP
(613) 992-3269
I'm not sure who will be running against Lisa Raitt in the next election, but I sure wish it were me.
Monday, May 18, 2009
The Liberal Election Dream Team Has Been Posted
National Co-Chairs
Senator David Smith
Marcelle Mersereau
Hon. Rémi Bujold
Hon. Anne McLellan
National President Alfred Apps
Provincial and Territorial Co-Chairs:
Newfoundland and Labrador
Paul Antle
Kay Young
Nova Scotia
George Unsworth
Senator James Cowan
Prince Edward Island
Kevin Kiley
New Brunswick
Len Hoyt
Senator Fernand Robichaud
Quebec
Marc-André Blanchard
Denise Verreault
Ontario
Brenda Kurczak
Jeff Kehoe
Chris Koddermann
Manitoba
Pat Ferguson
Colin MacArthur
Saskatchewan
Donna Welke
Marie-Therese Verma
Alberta
Daryl Fridhandler
Debby Carlson
Senator Grant Mitchell (Leader’s Alberta Outreach Coordinator)
British Columbia
Jatinder Rai
Sharon Apsey
Andrew Wilkinson
Senator Larry Campbell (Leader’s British Columbia Outreach Coordinator)
Yukon
Michael Hale
Nunavut
Thomy Sammurtok
Northwest Territories
Dave Monroe
Senator David Smith
Marcelle Mersereau
Hon. Rémi Bujold
Hon. Anne McLellan
National President Alfred Apps
Provincial and Territorial Co-Chairs:
Newfoundland and Labrador
Paul Antle
Kay Young
Nova Scotia
George Unsworth
Senator James Cowan
Prince Edward Island
Kevin Kiley
New Brunswick
Len Hoyt
Senator Fernand Robichaud
Quebec
Marc-André Blanchard
Denise Verreault
Ontario
Brenda Kurczak
Jeff Kehoe
Chris Koddermann
Manitoba
Pat Ferguson
Colin MacArthur
Saskatchewan
Donna Welke
Marie-Therese Verma
Alberta
Daryl Fridhandler
Debby Carlson
Senator Grant Mitchell (Leader’s Alberta Outreach Coordinator)
British Columbia
Jatinder Rai
Sharon Apsey
Andrew Wilkinson
Senator Larry Campbell (Leader’s British Columbia Outreach Coordinator)
Yukon
Michael Hale
Nunavut
Thomy Sammurtok
Northwest Territories
Dave Monroe
Sunday, May 17, 2009
How on Earth Could Jason Kenney Be Parliamentarian of the Year
The only thing I can think of is that the 94 MPs that didn't respond to the poll were opposition members. Surely Andrew Coyne and company at Maclean's have had to have had a momentary lack of intelligence to even print this farce in their publication.
Ignatieff Comes to Burlington Today
When: Sunday May 17, 2 pm
Where: Royal Botanical Gardens, Burlington
Tickets $10
Come see and hear Michael in one of the prettiest places in Canada. He will be signing his book. Then stop by after and have a cold one.
Saturday, May 16, 2009
Wednesday, May 13, 2009
BC Cab Drivers are Always, Always Right
In my totally unscientific poll conducted whilst in Vancouver last week, 11 of 11 cab drivers surveyed said that the Liberals would win another majority government and that the STV will fail in British Columbia. From now on I'm only accepting polls that surveyed BC cab drivers as the gospel truth.
Monday, May 11, 2009
Why I Think BC-STV Will Fail Tomorrow
Because if you can't explain it to the average Joe in less than a half hour, you're bound to fail. Then again, it is BC, so the unexplainable sometimes happens.
The House of Commons Owes our Athletes an Apology
On Wednesday May 7, 2009, in the House of Commons, a unanimous vote occurred in support of a Bloc motion to have our athletes wear sealskin as part of their outfits for the 2010 Olympics.
I'm not sure if any one of these MPs are aware that many, many, many Canadians don't agree with the seal hunt. 60% of Canadians surveyed are against seal hunting altogether. But that's besides the point. Politicizing our athletes is deplorable.
Are these MPs deliberately looking for mass protests in Vancouver where the security cost estimates are already through the roof? An apolgy is in order.
Join the fast-growing Facebook Group here.
I'm not sure if any one of these MPs are aware that many, many, many Canadians don't agree with the seal hunt. 60% of Canadians surveyed are against seal hunting altogether. But that's besides the point. Politicizing our athletes is deplorable.
Are these MPs deliberately looking for mass protests in Vancouver where the security cost estimates are already through the roof? An apolgy is in order.
Join the fast-growing Facebook Group here.
Sunday, May 10, 2009
Justin Trudeau Should be the new Critic for Youth and Multiculturalism
Would make sense to me. He's big time with the Liberal youth. He is the MP for one of the most ethnically diverse ridings in the country.
Just sayin'.
Friday, May 8, 2009
What the Hell are OUR MPs Thinking!?!??
Today, in the House of Commons, a unanimous vote occurred in support of a Bloc motion to have our athletes wear sealskin as part of their outfits for the 2010 Olympics.
So let me get this straight. EVERY MP in the House of Commons feels politicizing our amateur athletes is A OK!?! Are you f***ing kidding me or what? EVERY MP thinks 60% of Canadians are wrong?
I'm not sure if anyone of these MPs are aware that many, many, many Canadians don't agree with the seal hunt. Not to mention a few non-Canadians over in Spain or something.
WTF? Are you deliberately looking for mass protests in Vancouver where the security cost estimates are already through the roof? I can tell you one thing my friends, had I been an MP sitting in the HoC, I wouldn't be putting my athletes in peril. That's a fact!!!!
Thursday, May 7, 2009
About Ruby Dhalla
I'll bite on the invitation by George Young to say a few words on the non-scandal Ruby Dhalla event.
I've known Ruby for 5 years now. I was at her office grand opening in '04...me and about 4000 other fans.
It has become very apparent to me (and others) that Ruby has become a prime target for the Conservatives and the operatives within the Indian community in Brampton that would like to see her main contender Parm Gill win the next election.
I will holdback on commentary on this nannygate thingy because, quite frankly, I know all too well the feeling of being tried in the court of public opinion. There'll be enough piling on over the next days and weeks to come.
I will leave it at this. Dr. Ruby Dhalla is one of the most dedicated Liberal members I have ever met. Her dedication to this party stems from her youth many, many years ago. She works hard and demands those around her work hard. I look forward to her good name being cleared and hope that it happens sooner rather than later.
I've known Ruby for 5 years now. I was at her office grand opening in '04...me and about 4000 other fans.
It has become very apparent to me (and others) that Ruby has become a prime target for the Conservatives and the operatives within the Indian community in Brampton that would like to see her main contender Parm Gill win the next election.
I will holdback on commentary on this nannygate thingy because, quite frankly, I know all too well the feeling of being tried in the court of public opinion. There'll be enough piling on over the next days and weeks to come.
I will leave it at this. Dr. Ruby Dhalla is one of the most dedicated Liberal members I have ever met. Her dedication to this party stems from her youth many, many years ago. She works hard and demands those around her work hard. I look forward to her good name being cleared and hope that it happens sooner rather than later.
Saturday, May 2, 2009
Yes. What Bob Said
In his speech today at the convention Bob Rae said it was time we all set aside our differences and unite.
On that note, I'd just like say: Michael Ignatieff is the next great Liberal Prime Minister of Canada!!
On that note, I'd just like say: Michael Ignatieff is the next great Liberal Prime Minister of Canada!!
One Member, One Vote, One Party, Tous Ensemble
Belinda shoots, Bob scores.
Belinda Stronach opened the argument FOR One Member One Vote and Bob Rae sealed the deal with his very pointed, spirited endorsement.
The motion carried with over 90 per cent in support.It's about time, no?
Oh, and the youth amendment was overwhelmingly defeated after Justin Trudeau and John Lennard opposed their amendment. Kudos to both of them.
Belinda Stronach opened the argument FOR One Member One Vote and Bob Rae sealed the deal with his very pointed, spirited endorsement.
The motion carried with over 90 per cent in support.It's about time, no?
Oh, and the youth amendment was overwhelmingly defeated after Justin Trudeau and John Lennard opposed their amendment. Kudos to both of them.
It's Only About the Liberal Party's Future
Blogging from the Convention floor in Vangroovy where this morning we will fight the good fight for One Member One Vote.
First, we will fight the YLC amendment to the amendment and then we'll fight to get the 66 per cent we need to approve OMOV.
Wish us luck, cause here we go!
First, we will fight the YLC amendment to the amendment and then we'll fight to get the 66 per cent we need to approve OMOV.
Wish us luck, cause here we go!
Friday, May 1, 2009
14 Years for Perjury?
Anyone else think that's a little harsh for hockey Hall of Famer Guy the Flower???
Caucus Support
Last night we had a little bash over at Steamworks.
Just wanted to give a shout out to my caucus buddies that showed up to tip a few with us commoners.
Dr. Hedy Fry, Justin Trudeau, Gerard Kennedy, Martha Hall Finlay, Bonnie Crombie, Scott Brison and Ontario MPP Michael Bryant. Not to mention, my good buddies Lui Temelovski and Omar Alghabra, both of whom will be back in Ottawa after the next election.
A tip of the hat to fellow bloggers, Runesmith, Far and Wide, BCer in Toronto, Woman at Mile 0, Impolitical, Liberal Minute, Jason Cherniak, Deb Pothero, Confessions of a Liberal Mind and KNB for giving up some of their Convention Coverage Time to stop and chat with yours truly for a while.
Last, but not least, a huge thank you to all my fellow Liberals for coming out in solidarity for ONTARIO! OURS TO RECOVER!
CHEERS!
J
Just wanted to give a shout out to my caucus buddies that showed up to tip a few with us commoners.
Dr. Hedy Fry, Justin Trudeau, Gerard Kennedy, Martha Hall Finlay, Bonnie Crombie, Scott Brison and Ontario MPP Michael Bryant. Not to mention, my good buddies Lui Temelovski and Omar Alghabra, both of whom will be back in Ottawa after the next election.
A tip of the hat to fellow bloggers, Runesmith, Far and Wide, BCer in Toronto, Woman at Mile 0, Impolitical, Liberal Minute, Jason Cherniak, Deb Pothero, Confessions of a Liberal Mind and KNB for giving up some of their Convention Coverage Time to stop and chat with yours truly for a while.
Last, but not least, a huge thank you to all my fellow Liberals for coming out in solidarity for ONTARIO! OURS TO RECOVER!
CHEERS!
J
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)
