I was checking the Canadian news last night, and I read some of the best political news ever. Really, I haven't been this excited about a political story, well, ever. Here: share my joy:
If you're not Canadian, the long story short is that the current Liberal government led by Paul Martin as Prime Minister has been embroiled in a "Sponsorship Scandal" which is just the media's term for shady government grants and gifts with tax-payers money. The Conservative party has been trying to bring a "vote of no-confidence" which would likely end up with the Conservatives in another minority government. It was the proverbial rock and hard place.
But then... a deal! In a strange turn of fate, the Liberals found themselves in need of support from the NDP party. The New Democrats are certainly the party I most agree with, although they are not strong enough to really ever have a chance at government. But because the Liberals need the help of the NDP to maintain their position, they had to make a deal.
The CBC article explains the specifics of the deal better than I could. It's all about the budget, and it adds up to a $4.6 billion dollar boost in social program spending. This goes toward: reducing tuition fees, building more affordable housing, increasing foreign aid and spending more to fight pollution. And, imagine this, it includes scrapping tax-cuts for corporations, while implementing small-business cuts. Aboriginal housing, public transportation, foreign aid to meet the 0.7 % of GDP goal, it's almost like the NDP made their own budget!
So the Liberals keep a weak hold on power, and the NDP make the world a better place. I'm happy and very proud of Canada at the moment.
1 comment:
Ah yes, the typical Canadian solution to a political dilemma - compromise. And the net benefit goes to the heart of who we truly are as a nation. Beautiful.
It's the Canadian way, and yes, the world does need more Canada. I'm celebrating with you - happy and proud!
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