CityNews Viewers Divided On Governor General’s Decision
Posted December 4, 2008 12:00 pm.
This article is more than 5 years old.
The Governor General’s decision to prorogue Parliament means Stephen Harper’s minority Conservative government is safe – for now. But what a week it’s been in Ottawa, and public reaction to the prospect of a coalition government was anything but apathetic.
While some relished the prospect of Harper being ousted by the united front of the Liberals, New Democrats and Bloc Quebecois, others felt there could be no worse move at a time of economic uncertainty in the country.
Here are a few of the comments we’ve received via Facebook and email since Gov.-Gen. Michaelle Jean opted for prorogation (some have been edited for space and content):
The Prime Minister did the right thing for Canada and for democracy. A separatist party has no place in the House of Commons.
Trent Hogan
This could have all been avoided if we had voted for proportional representation when we had the chance. This entire debacle is the result of Canadians taking no interest in the governmental workings of our own country. We have no-one to blame but ourselves.
Cherelle Higgins
It is what it is….Canadians chose Harper let him be….
Lauren Carr
This is so elementary. Great work Harper! The lesson of this story, if you don’t want to deal with something, run to momma. She’ll protect you and suspend your activities. 2 months later she’ll allow you to return in hopes that everyone has forgotten about your screw-ups.
Tania Carolo
I think that Harper painted himself into a corner, and that G.G. has just given him permission to wait for the paint to dry.
Jennifer Hooper-Langton
What a mess is all I can say….! I thought we voted for a reason otherwise why waste my time!
Sonia Young
Not sure if prorogation will help Harper’s cause. We’ll see in January, but so many bridges have already been burned.
Darwin Duka
I think the opposition parties will still strike down Harper in 6 weeks. This is just time for Harper to relax and enjoy his final days of Prime Minister.
A.J. Gallant
as it should be…it is!
Boni Heward-Meikle
I think we should have an election and return Mr. Harper to majority government and show the coalition that if you want to govern then earn it not take it.
Alf Hinds
My knowledge of Canadian politics is quite limited, but I believe it does not take a genius to figure out that it was wrong to let the coalition get into power.
Almost 2 months ago, those 3 stooges fought and backstabbed one another, and then they will suddenly “work” together for the good of our country? Who are they kidding? Too many cooks will spoil the broth.
PM Harper should be given a chance. The current recession is not his fault. Even China had to bail-out its economy. This recession originated in the “greatest country” in the world (USA) – of course everybody in the planet will feel it, us included.
Maria F.
The Governor General has done the right thing for now. The Canadian public made their choice for government. The electorate placed Mr. Stephen Harper and The Conservatives in power. The election held this past October must be respected. Canadians must be respected for their choices and the end result.
Deirdre
In time of economic crises, we don’t need to spend unnecessarily for another election. We can use that money intelligently towards another project ie. help students burdened by student loans, etc. I don’t believe with this coalition group.
Pilar Villamor
I believe the Governor General did the only thing that could make any sense. Dion is just trying to bully his way into power. Why should he be allowed to do this? He lost the election fair and square. His own party doesn’t even have faith in him. How can you assume that the Canadian people have any more faith in him than they do in Harper?
Liz F.
Governor General Michaelle Jean absolutely did the right thing. While Canada will not be served adequately under the Harper regime it certainly is a better option than being led by Daffy Duck Dion and his coalition of home wreckers! What was Dion thinking?!
He obviously gave the same thought and consideration to this “coalition” idea as the production values of his television address last night. I thought that clip would better serve him on America’s Funniest Home Videos.
Chris T.
GG Jean wimped out! Harper’s lame plea about a separatist party not being part of our democracy was a joke. The Bloc MPs were duly elected to represent their constituents. Have a nice holiday, Harper. In January, hopefully your career will be over.
Dave Buchanan
Three HEADS are BETTER than ONE
Norm K.
I am very glad that Mr. Harper was successful in receiving permission to prorogue the government. I am not committed to any one party, sometimes, I lean more to the left and sometimes more to the right. It depends on the issue and the leader at the time. I have been glued to the Canadian news stations the past few days, nice change from being glued to CNN.
Catharine J.
The GG did the only democratic move she could make. I fully support her decision!
Mike O’Malley
