Speaking out!

For the second time in one year, the Governor General has been approached to approve the prorogation of Parliament. While it is technically legal to prorogue Parliament, it is clear that Stephen Harper is not doing so for any acceptable reason. There are still many pieces of legislation which need to go to final reading that they will not receive.

I am appalled to watch Harper assume near-dictatorial powers by running roughshod over parliamentary procedures and institutions. He shows contempt not only for Parliament and the opposition parties but for Canadian citizens.

He is also demonstrating contempt for the office of the Governor General. Michaëlle Jean could have refused to allow the move -- just as she could have last year when Harper prorogued Parliament to avoid a vote of confidence -- but she knows it would cause a constitutional crisis. Harper knows she won't do this and abuses this for crass political advantage.

When he ran in the last election, Harper promised a new era of government accountability. It is no accountability at all. This move to shut down Parliament again demonstrates that Harper is unfit to be prime minister -- he has abandoned the centuries-old principle of "a government of laws, not men." If he cannot abide by the rules of democracy, he should resign.

Ann Frederking,
Ottawa

More Activities
Home