Today, the University of Toronto will announce the Michael Ignatieff has accepted a position at the university and will be returning to Canada. Both the Star and the Globe have leaked reports.
This is a great move for Ignatieff as he needs to be in Canada to increase his exposure with Canadians. In my mind, Ignatieff is one of the top potential candidates being discussed in Liberal circles and this news definitely heats things up.
More commentary to come...
Friday, August 26, 2005
Monday, August 01, 2005
Canada Right to Urge Action in Niger
Our Liberal government is rightfully calling upon the international community to take action to deal with the humanitariam crisis in Niger as well as other West African countries. Minister Aileen Carroll announced on Friday that Canada would increase funding for the crisis in Niger. This is in addition to the help Canada is already sending through the Canadian Internationl Developement Agency (CIDA) to deal with the crisis.
Niger currently faces a serious food crisis. Drought and an invasion of desert locusts caused a 225,000 tonne grain deficit in the 2004-2005 harvest. The food crisis threatens some 3.5 million people in close to 3,000 villages. UNICEF made an urgent appeal on Friday for more aid, saying $14.6-million was needed “to help stop a deadly cycle of starvation.
The media is slowly paying attention to the crisis in Niger. On CNN, Anderson Cooper will be devoted his show on Monday at 7pm to this issue. From his site: "Anderson Cooper travels to Africa to put a human face on the hunger crisis in Niger".
I hope these efforts won't be in vain and the increased attention and Canada's efforts will be successful in convincing other countries to pay attention to this crisis. Props to Aileen Carroll and our Liberal government for continuing to be a positive force in tackling humanitarian crises.
Niger currently faces a serious food crisis. Drought and an invasion of desert locusts caused a 225,000 tonne grain deficit in the 2004-2005 harvest. The food crisis threatens some 3.5 million people in close to 3,000 villages. UNICEF made an urgent appeal on Friday for more aid, saying $14.6-million was needed “to help stop a deadly cycle of starvation.
The media is slowly paying attention to the crisis in Niger. On CNN, Anderson Cooper will be devoted his show on Monday at 7pm to this issue. From his site: "Anderson Cooper travels to Africa to put a human face on the hunger crisis in Niger".
I hope these efforts won't be in vain and the increased attention and Canada's efforts will be successful in convincing other countries to pay attention to this crisis. Props to Aileen Carroll and our Liberal government for continuing to be a positive force in tackling humanitarian crises.
Sunday, July 31, 2005
Great Public Television: TVO, CBC
I am constantly reminded of the huge benefits of strong and vibrant public television networks. In Canada, we need to ensure that the regulations (think CRTC content laws) and federal funding currently in place be strengthened to continue to protect and strengthen Canadian culture and content. Check out Our Public Airwarves a campaign for a revitalization of Public Broadcasting. We need increased funding of public broadcasters and continued support for the Canadian Television Fund and Telefilm Canada among others.
Do your part, sign this online petition for a Strong CBC.
This weekend, I have had the chance to watch TVO's Big Ideas program which has brought coverage of Navigating a New World Symposium at UofT on November 6th, 2004. I am currently watching Naomi Klein talking about Iraq and the Bush Agenda, after seeing Romeo Dallaire, Irshad Manji and Loyd Axworthy. I have been thoroughly impressed with programming coming out of TVO and CBC. Check out TVO's 2005 fall programming preview here.
For the cynics reading this, all I can do is point to Quebec. The laws, regulations and government funding have ensured a vibrant cultural industry in Quebec. It is in Quebec where Canadian and Quebec films remain the most popular and successful. Yes, the language barrier makes it easier competing against Hollywood by it shouldn't mean that we shouldn't put up a fight in English Canada.
Do your part, sign this online petition for a Strong CBC.
This weekend, I have had the chance to watch TVO's Big Ideas program which has brought coverage of Navigating a New World Symposium at UofT on November 6th, 2004. I am currently watching Naomi Klein talking about Iraq and the Bush Agenda, after seeing Romeo Dallaire, Irshad Manji and Loyd Axworthy. I have been thoroughly impressed with programming coming out of TVO and CBC. Check out TVO's 2005 fall programming preview here.
For the cynics reading this, all I can do is point to Quebec. The laws, regulations and government funding have ensured a vibrant cultural industry in Quebec. It is in Quebec where Canadian and Quebec films remain the most popular and successful. Yes, the language barrier makes it easier competing against Hollywood by it shouldn't mean that we shouldn't put up a fight in English Canada.
Friday, July 29, 2005
Frist Flip-flops on Stem Cell, Goes Against Bush
Wow, turmoil in the republican party now that Bill Frist, the senate majority leader has decided to break With bush on the stem-cell bill.
This could mean that up to 7 or 8 other moderate republicans might see some political room to do the same thing and vote their conscious. This could precipitate a veto showdown between the President and his Republican congress.
Already, Tom Delay has criticized Frist on his flip-flop in an interview with CNN this afternoon.
Interesting times to be a Democrat :)
With Rovegate going on, now Bush is losing his grip in Congress. This week, on the vote on CAFTA, 39 republicans voted against the president. Bush has also lost republicans on his position on social security. Now this. I hope the democrats can capitalize.
This could mean that up to 7 or 8 other moderate republicans might see some political room to do the same thing and vote their conscious. This could precipitate a veto showdown between the President and his Republican congress.
Already, Tom Delay has criticized Frist on his flip-flop in an interview with CNN this afternoon.
Interesting times to be a Democrat :)
With Rovegate going on, now Bush is losing his grip in Congress. This week, on the vote on CAFTA, 39 republicans voted against the president. Bush has also lost republicans on his position on social security. Now this. I hope the democrats can capitalize.
Wednesday, July 27, 2005
Update: Post-Secondary Transfer already Liberal Policy
I was reminded today that what the dedicated post-secondary transfer that the premiers were in the news about, is already Liberal Party policy.
I was at the Liberal Policy convention in March so I should have remembered. It was one of the Young Liberal resolutions and ended up being combined and adopted as a priority resolution.
Check out Jason Cherniak's posts to that effect:
Comments after Liberal Policy Convention in March Premiers take up Young Liberal Cause
Some news articles which appeared after March Policy Convention:
BC Campus Paper The Charlatan Paper
I was at the Liberal Policy convention in March so I should have remembered. It was one of the Young Liberal resolutions and ended up being combined and adopted as a priority resolution.
Check out Jason Cherniak's posts to that effect:
Some news articles which appeared after March Policy Convention:
Tuesday, July 26, 2005
Liberal Fortunes Improve in Quebec!
Encouraging news out of Quebec yesterday! A new Decima Research survey, reported here in the Globe, suggests the Liberals, who were in the mid-teens in April, have clawed back from rock bottom and now stand at 28 per cent in that province. It looks like the Liberal strategy is working of avoiding any attention in Quebec is working.
I have been giving much thought to the dismal polling numbers coming out of Quebec and what that means for Canadian federalism and unity. After hearing from friends in Quebec about the situation there, I realized how grave the situation is. It is much more than just poor poll numbers. The seperatist cause has been slowly gaining momentum for a while now and is only picking up steam.
Building on my earlier posts about the importance of education, in Quebec they find themselves at the mercy of the educational sector (teachers, etc...) which is by highly inclined to favour and spread the seperatist cause. Case in point, Parizeau is on a speaking tour to Cégeps across Quebec. From my vantage point, there is absolutely no voice proposing an alternative to seperation. We need political leaders who will stand up for a unified and strong Canada, which includes a vibrant francophone Quebec. I believe that once there is a debate about it, the polling numbers in support of seperation will fall back down. Until then, the one-sided debate looks like it is producing a generation of young Quebecers who want nothing to do with Ottawa and want to seperate.
I think the other issue is the provincial political situation. Especially for young Quebecers but also for the generally more progressive Quebec population, the only way to express a desire for progressive government is by voting for the Parti Quebecois. The provincial liberals are being led by a conservative, read the unpopular Charest, and the ADQ is even more right-wing. What would change the dynamic is the emergence of a leftish provincial party who does not advocate seperation. Enter the NDP perhaps?
I have also been trying to wrap my head around how to reverse the huge tide of seperatist sentiment especially among young francophones. More posts to come on that, but I would love to hear your thoughts!
I have been giving much thought to the dismal polling numbers coming out of Quebec and what that means for Canadian federalism and unity. After hearing from friends in Quebec about the situation there, I realized how grave the situation is. It is much more than just poor poll numbers. The seperatist cause has been slowly gaining momentum for a while now and is only picking up steam.
Building on my earlier posts about the importance of education, in Quebec they find themselves at the mercy of the educational sector (teachers, etc...) which is by highly inclined to favour and spread the seperatist cause. Case in point, Parizeau is on a speaking tour to Cégeps across Quebec. From my vantage point, there is absolutely no voice proposing an alternative to seperation. We need political leaders who will stand up for a unified and strong Canada, which includes a vibrant francophone Quebec. I believe that once there is a debate about it, the polling numbers in support of seperation will fall back down. Until then, the one-sided debate looks like it is producing a generation of young Quebecers who want nothing to do with Ottawa and want to seperate.
I think the other issue is the provincial political situation. Especially for young Quebecers but also for the generally more progressive Quebec population, the only way to express a desire for progressive government is by voting for the Parti Quebecois. The provincial liberals are being led by a conservative, read the unpopular Charest, and the ADQ is even more right-wing. What would change the dynamic is the emergence of a leftish provincial party who does not advocate seperation. Enter the NDP perhaps?
I have also been trying to wrap my head around how to reverse the huge tide of seperatist sentiment especially among young francophones. More posts to come on that, but I would love to hear your thoughts!
Friday, July 22, 2005
A Welcome Focus on Post-Secondary Education
It seems that our official past-time in Canadian politics for the last few years has been the state of Health Care. Don't get me wrong, I do think that maintaining a high-quality publicly funded equitable health care system is important. But, health care spending simply amounts to spending on consumption. If we want to improve the quality of life of Canadians we need to make investments that will pay off in the future. Which leads to the focus of this post: Education Funding.
Yesterday, Canadian Premiers announced that they would begin to push for more education funding from the federal government in the form of a dedicated fund like the one established for health care. This is welcome news! Although education is under provincial jurisdiction, the federal government can play a positive role in improving education across the country.
Today, Universities gave this education plan top marks saying that this dedicated funding in the form of increased transfers to provinces would improve universities. Universities could hire more professors, increase the number of spaces, increase financial aid and further fund research projects.
Where I disagree, is when people talk about the need to halt tuition-fee increases. For instance the folks over at Canadian Federation of Students who started this campaign denouncing Bob Rae's review of Ontario's post-secondary institutions.
Contrary to popular belief, it is PROGRESSIVE to increase tuition fees if it is coupled with increases in financial aid based on need. By keeping tuition fees artificially low, which they are in Canada, the government is essentially subsidizing better-off Canadians and foreign students who are able to pay more for their education. If tuition fees were increased then we would have a progressive system based on a student's ability to pay for education. The government would have more funds available to provide even lower fees to poorer individuals. Moreover, the increased revenue from the higher tuition rates paid by well-off Canadians would allow post-secondary institutions to provide better quality education.
It seems that Rae is advocating this course of action. According to Rae, tuition should not increase at all until the student assistance system is reformed and government has made significant new investments.
Instead of vehemently denouncing the Rae review, CFS and others who I consider my progressive peers, should truly think about how we can make our post-secondary education system more progressive and beneficial to students.
Yesterday, Canadian Premiers announced that they would begin to push for more education funding from the federal government in the form of a dedicated fund like the one established for health care. This is welcome news! Although education is under provincial jurisdiction, the federal government can play a positive role in improving education across the country.
Today, Universities gave this education plan top marks saying that this dedicated funding in the form of increased transfers to provinces would improve universities. Universities could hire more professors, increase the number of spaces, increase financial aid and further fund research projects.
Where I disagree, is when people talk about the need to halt tuition-fee increases. For instance the folks over at Canadian Federation of Students who started this campaign denouncing Bob Rae's review of Ontario's post-secondary institutions.
Contrary to popular belief, it is PROGRESSIVE to increase tuition fees if it is coupled with increases in financial aid based on need. By keeping tuition fees artificially low, which they are in Canada, the government is essentially subsidizing better-off Canadians and foreign students who are able to pay more for their education. If tuition fees were increased then we would have a progressive system based on a student's ability to pay for education. The government would have more funds available to provide even lower fees to poorer individuals. Moreover, the increased revenue from the higher tuition rates paid by well-off Canadians would allow post-secondary institutions to provide better quality education.
It seems that Rae is advocating this course of action. According to Rae, tuition should not increase at all until the student assistance system is reformed and government has made significant new investments.
Instead of vehemently denouncing the Rae review, CFS and others who I consider my progressive peers, should truly think about how we can make our post-secondary education system more progressive and beneficial to students.
Thursday, July 21, 2005
Genocide IS news!
There is a genocide going on in Sudan! Oh, why so confused? Have you not heard about it? That might be because it is getting barely any media coverage in Canada and even less in the U.S.
This morning both Canadian and American media had the opportunity to cover the genocide. Secretary of State Rice visited Sudan yesterday where her "entourage was roughed up". This Associated Press coverage on the Globe and Mail's website was concentrates on the brief scuffle and barely covers the reason for the visit which was the genocide itself. Give me a break!
Since 2003,
2 million people have been displaced by a campaign of genocide Estimated that 400,000 people have died due to violence, starvation and disease More than 6,000 continue to die every month according to a recent U.N. mortality assessment 3.5 million people will be in urgent need of food assistance in the very near future (Source: United Nations)
Safe Darfur.org has great resources. Amnesty International Canada: Take Action Protect Darfur Students For Darfur
Some blogs to check out:
Coalition For Darfur Sudan Watch
FYI - I just added the white Make Poverty history band to my blog. Click here to find out how you can as well.
This morning both Canadian and American media had the opportunity to cover the genocide. Secretary of State Rice visited Sudan yesterday where her "entourage was roughed up". This Associated Press coverage on the Globe and Mail's website was concentrates on the brief scuffle and barely covers the reason for the visit which was the genocide itself. Give me a break!
Since 2003,
The New Republic has Eric Reeves, a professor at Smith College and an expert on Darfur, guest blogging this week on the situation in Darfur. Check the blog here. His first post gives a great base of knowledge about the crisis.
I can't find any info on Canadian media but in the U.S., American Media monitoring groups have produced studies and statistics which show the disgusting state of American media, providing analysis of the coverage of the genocide in Darfur. Check here, here and, here.
This BeAWitness.org video has been viewed by over 40,000 people, as of today, and I recommend taking a look. BeAWitness.org, which is a joint campaign of the American Progress Action Fund and Genocide Intervention Fund, is leading the charge to ensure coverage of the crisis in Darfur.
I am so proud of the Liberal government for attempting to take a leadership role in addressing the Darfur crisis. Check out their detailed website.
Take Action!
Some blogs to check out:
FYI - I just added the white Make Poverty history band to my blog. Click here to find out how you can as well.
Wednesday, July 20, 2005
U.S. Political Happenings: SCOTUS & Rove, Coulter, DST
There is a ton of political activity south of the border, especially as there seems to be barely any activity up here in Canada in terms of federal politics.
Supreme Court Nomination - It's about the Timing!
I will reserve comment on John G. Roberts, who is the actual nominee, and rather talk about the communications genius of Karl Rove and the Bush administration. Things were heating up regarding the CIA leak and information was leaking out about White House adviser Karl Rove and vice presidential Chief of Staff I. Lewis Libby having provided information to Matthew Cooper. Oh, wait! We now have a Supreme Court nominee and everyone drops everything to talk about the strong conservative judge which Bush hopes will change the face of America for a very long time through the Court.
I hope that the calls for Rove's resignation continue and that we get to the bottom of this whole thing. Poor Judith Miller is still sitting in jail. The question is, who is she protecting. There is also the matter of Bob Novak's involvement and I would love to see him go down as well. How CNN can bring him on as an unbiased commentator now is ridiculous considering how much of a right-wing conservative he is.
For now:
O'Connor's reaction here.
Ann Coulter Plagiarized?
From this article at The Raw Story Ann Coulter has been caught plagiarizing pieces in magazines dating as far back as 1985 and a column written for the Boston Globe in 1995 for her recent June column: "Thou Shall Not Commit Religion,". Ann Coulter should be stripped of her column, which of course won't happen, but at least this will help discredit her often ludicrous claims.
Props to Doucheblog with this post on the Coulter story.
Changing Daylight Savings Time??
Front page story today in the Toronto Star about a provision in the Energy bill before Congress that would extend daylight savings time by two months to reduce electricity. Now, I gave some thought to how this might work, and intuitively I see how it can work but wouldn't expect huge electricity savings. Of course, people are screaming about how this might affect Canada. Well, here in Ontario, we have legislation called the "Time Act" under the jurisdiction of the Attorney General. So, we could easily make changes to keep in line with the U.S. I really don't see how this warrants a front page story. The Star buried the Ontario government's $112.7 million funding boost to Home Care on A6. hmmm...[shaking my head]...
Antonia Zerbisias has a humourous take on what Canada will do about this.
Supreme Court Nomination - It's about the Timing!
I will reserve comment on John G. Roberts, who is the actual nominee, and rather talk about the communications genius of Karl Rove and the Bush administration. Things were heating up regarding the CIA leak and information was leaking out about White House adviser Karl Rove and vice presidential Chief of Staff I. Lewis Libby having provided information to Matthew Cooper. Oh, wait! We now have a Supreme Court nominee and everyone drops everything to talk about the strong conservative judge which Bush hopes will change the face of America for a very long time through the Court.
I hope that the calls for Rove's resignation continue and that we get to the bottom of this whole thing. Poor Judith Miller is still sitting in jail. The question is, who is she protecting. There is also the matter of Bob Novak's involvement and I would love to see him go down as well. How CNN can bring him on as an unbiased commentator now is ridiculous considering how much of a right-wing conservative he is.
For now:
O'Connor's reaction here.
Ann Coulter Plagiarized?
From this article at The Raw Story Ann Coulter has been caught plagiarizing pieces in magazines dating as far back as 1985 and a column written for the Boston Globe in 1995 for her recent June column: "Thou Shall Not Commit Religion,". Ann Coulter should be stripped of her column, which of course won't happen, but at least this will help discredit her often ludicrous claims.
Props to Doucheblog with this post on the Coulter story.
Changing Daylight Savings Time??
Front page story today in the Toronto Star about a provision in the Energy bill before Congress that would extend daylight savings time by two months to reduce electricity. Now, I gave some thought to how this might work, and intuitively I see how it can work but wouldn't expect huge electricity savings. Of course, people are screaming about how this might affect Canada. Well, here in Ontario, we have legislation called the "Time Act" under the jurisdiction of the Attorney General. So, we could easily make changes to keep in line with the U.S. I really don't see how this warrants a front page story. The Star buried the Ontario government's $112.7 million funding boost to Home Care on A6. hmmm...[shaking my head]...
Antonia Zerbisias has a humourous take on what Canada will do about this.
Back from brief hiatus...
Sorry for the complete lack of posting recently. I have been pretty busy and caught up with living in downtown Toronto on my own, and couldn't seem to find any time for posting.
On the upside, I have had lots of time to think about politics and what is going on here in Canada and in the U.S. I have also given some thought to what types of things I want to concentrate on through this blog.
Ideally, I would be able to section off my blog into distinct categories so that people who aren't interested in Canadian politics can just read my other posts and vice versa. Alas, I don't have the time to create a non-blogger.com blog so I am stuff with what I have or the option of starting a second blog. If anyone has any suggestions please let me know.
Here are some great American progressive blogs that I have been reading pretty regularly:
Liberal Oasis: Has a decent blog but has great links and compiles recent posts from other leading progressive blogs. Great one-stop site. Daily Kos: One of the top progressive blogs Talking Points Memo: Another top progressive blog. He founded TPMCafe, which is a great forum, discussion site Ruminate This!: Witty and succinct commentary. Updates very often so always new stuff to read.
On the upside, I have had lots of time to think about politics and what is going on here in Canada and in the U.S. I have also given some thought to what types of things I want to concentrate on through this blog.
Ideally, I would be able to section off my blog into distinct categories so that people who aren't interested in Canadian politics can just read my other posts and vice versa. Alas, I don't have the time to create a non-blogger.com blog so I am stuff with what I have or the option of starting a second blog. If anyone has any suggestions please let me know.
Here are some great American progressive blogs that I have been reading pretty regularly:
Of late, there has been a huge amount of posts on these blogs surrounding Karl Rove and controversy surrounding the Valerie Plame affair. It was interesting to see how things percolate on blogs for awhile then start hitting more mainstream media sources.
I am convinced about the power blogs have and will increasingly gain in the media realm. More about this to come soon.
Tuesday, July 05, 2005
Track your MP's record
I just stumbled upon this amazing website. The CP has this story about it.
It has some amazing functionality. See your MP's voting records and attendance. Also, easy cross-referencing for looking about the bills that were voted upon. You can also see your MP's quotes and there are stats on word counts and number of quotes.
Props to Cory Horner for putting this together!
It has some amazing functionality. See your MP's voting records and attendance. Also, easy cross-referencing for looking about the bills that were voted upon. You can also see your MP's quotes and there are stats on word counts and number of quotes.
Props to Cory Horner for putting this together!
Saturday, July 02, 2005
Live 8: "We're Looking for Justice"
Bono summed it up like none other: "We're looking for justice". Simple and powerful. I have been watching the Live 8 coverage on CTV and have been amazed thus far with what an amazing feat this is. It's interesting how many artists became so well known from the original Live Aid and now they are headlining Live 8 this many years later.
I believe that all the hype and media coverage is working to spread the simple message that: We can make history, by making Poverty History!
When asked the question of what you want our generation to remembered by, I can't think of anything better than to rid the world of preventable and unnecessary poverty.
Check out the Live 8 website for information about the concerts going on worldwide.
The Make Poverty History website is a really great resource to find out about the worldwide campaign.
Watching Coldplay now from London...more to come...
I believe that all the hype and media coverage is working to spread the simple message that: We can make history, by making Poverty History!
When asked the question of what you want our generation to remembered by, I can't think of anything better than to rid the world of preventable and unnecessary poverty.
Check out the Live 8 website for information about the concerts going on worldwide.
The Make Poverty History website is a really great resource to find out about the worldwide campaign.
Watching Coldplay now from London...more to come...
Tuesday, June 28, 2005
Warning Shot from Corporate Canada
Front page article in the globe. where the Canadian Council of Chief Executives is complaining that there is a lack of leadership in Ottawa. Well ya! There have been some good moments but overall, what a disapointment. Especially the crazy conservatives. If I were any of these big Canadian CEOs, I would be holding back my $$$ big time. I'm sure the leaders would change their tune pretty quickly.
"As a political entity, Canada is a nation adrift," said the business group representing 150 leading CEOs. "A minority federal government is frittering away the fruits of years of sacrifice."I really hope the report will be about Canada First and not about useless integration with the United States. I don't have a problem with a certain amount of harmonization or collaboration as long as it is on our terms and it is with the goal of improved sovereignty. Check out vivelecanada.com.
The CCCE plans to unveil its own "Canada First" strategy for the country before the next election, expected by early 2006.
The CEOs want the national debate to switch to strategies for cutting excessive spending, taxation and regulations -- and away from endless partisan wrangling in Parliament.Hmmm...I support looking at making things more efficient but I would like the savings put back into productive programs that spur the economy. Like increased training or money for education. Jeffrey Simpson today in the Globe was talking about training and how Canada is in the middle of the pack of OECD countries. The Scandinavian countries have the right strategy. No need to reinvent the wheel. We can and should do better! As for taxation, I really think we need to destroy the Fraser Institute and their faulty "Tax Freedom Day" gimick. The Canadian Center for Policy Alternatives recently came out with this release. That is why I love the CCPA and why we need more center and center-left think tanks, who speak the truth!
Finally Same-Sex Legislation
I am very happy to see Parliament finally voting on C-38. It's about time. I have to give Martin and the liberals credit for showing some leadership to call the Conservative's bluff and extend the sitting of parliament to get this legislation passed. The Globe reports in this article.
As for those that call themselves 'Liberals' who are voting against C-38, I am dissapointed and hope that us progressive Liberals can work so that you do not get the nomination next time. Reports suggest that Joe Comuzzi has resigned from cabinet. Good riddance! Make some room for some progressive MPs.
As for those that call themselves 'Liberals' who are voting against C-38, I am dissapointed and hope that us progressive Liberals can work so that you do not get the nomination next time. Reports suggest that Joe Comuzzi has resigned from cabinet. Good riddance! Make some room for some progressive MPs.
On Tuesday, Mr. Comuzzi resigned his cabinet post, chosing instead to sit as a Liberal backbencher, according to reports.Kudos to MP Mark Holland. From this report in The Hill Times, he has done a lot of work to ensure that this legislation would be passed speedily. Keep up the good work! This proves that you can be a good MP even though you are young. Mr. Holland is 31. Email him here.
Monday, June 27, 2005
Thoughts on Today's Question Period
It was really nice to see that Harper had some legitimate policy questions for the Prime Minister. Monte Solberg was absolutely ridiculous with his questions. Goodale handled himself well and ended up calling Monte a "juvenile delinquent". I agree! Diane Ablonczy was on top of the immigration story. I completely disagree with her accusation of political interference. She should rather question the ineptitude of some consular officials and question why Volpe isn’t doing anything about it.
The Bloc, questioning about immigration was on the ball. Where were the other parties on this issue? There was a GlobeandMail editorial on it on Saturday regarding the visitor visa given to a pregnant woman in
Unfortunately, the NDP was out in left field asking about Belinda’s potential conflicts. Ok, ok, I know about that. How about some substantive policy.
Hmmm…nothing on Bernard Shapiro’s ineffectiveness. That's a shame. Check this out.
Sunday, June 26, 2005
C-60 Needs a Rethink
This bill has been bothering me since I read Michael Geist's column a little while back about the possibility of legislation coming forward from Heritage Canada and Industry Canada jointly. I think the Ottawa Citizen sums it up quite well here (PDF format). It begins,
Now, don't get me wrong, this law is better than the crap in the United States but we in Canada can do better. Our government should not be propping up the Canadian Recording Industry's failing business models. Lower your prices, offer better services and people won't need to download illegally. It's that simple. And, that doesn't even get into the argument about downloads themselves.
A Wharton professor, Peter Fader has done extensive research on this. He notes that downloading actually increases CD sales. I attended a lecture of his where he had download stats for 50 cent and aligned them with first week sales of CDs. Downloading can and should be used by labels to seed the market. Check out his article. The sad truth is that the Recording industry just can't get their shit together to come up with a succesful business model that appeals to consumers. In the US, the proliferation of legal high quality streaming services have demonstrated some success. That is proof in my view.
Another bone I have to pick, is the levy on blank CDs that consumers have to pay. If they are now changing the law then I think that the levy should be reavaluated. I hope the money goes to Canadian Artists and not the Recording Industry.
Drop them an email, and let them know what you think. Check out Michael Geist's website for more detailed analysis. Also, he has some great columns in the Toronto Star about this.
Let me hear your thoughts!
"Proposed changes to the federal Copyright Act, if adopted as law, would punish legitimate users of copyrighted material without making much of dent on illegal file sharing."There are a number of issues with this bill. Michael Geist does a great job of outlining them:
It also expresses concern for user interests, concluding that "lost in the middle...may be the customers themselves." The paper is troubled by the potential loss of fair dealing rights as well as the inequity of bundling copy-protection, anti-circumvention legislation, and the private copying levy.As I see it, there is still ample opportunity to get changes to this bill. As Liberals, especially my fellow bloggers, we need to make sure that Liza Frulla and David Emerson as well as our MPs know that we have reservations about this bill.
Some may quibble with its characterization of anti-circumvention provisions and some fair dealing rights given the bill's link between circumvention and copyright infringement. However, I think the concern that locked down content, when combined with uncertainty over whether fair dealing covers a certain use, could indeed lead to a chill in uses of materials that are currently permitted under Canadian Copyright law. More generally, the editorial's focus hits the right issue as the paper obviously wants to ensure that user interests are fairly and fully addressed by the new bill.
Now, don't get me wrong, this law is better than the crap in the United States but we in Canada can do better. Our government should not be propping up the Canadian Recording Industry's failing business models. Lower your prices, offer better services and people won't need to download illegally. It's that simple. And, that doesn't even get into the argument about downloads themselves.
A Wharton professor, Peter Fader has done extensive research on this. He notes that downloading actually increases CD sales. I attended a lecture of his where he had download stats for 50 cent and aligned them with first week sales of CDs. Downloading can and should be used by labels to seed the market. Check out his article. The sad truth is that the Recording industry just can't get their shit together to come up with a succesful business model that appeals to consumers. In the US, the proliferation of legal high quality streaming services have demonstrated some success. That is proof in my view.
Another bone I have to pick, is the levy on blank CDs that consumers have to pay. If they are now changing the law then I think that the levy should be reavaluated. I hope the money goes to Canadian Artists and not the Recording Industry.
Drop them an email, and let them know what you think. Check out Michael Geist's website for more detailed analysis. Also, he has some great columns in the Toronto Star about this.
Let me hear your thoughts!
How I love the CBC
I just finished watching CBC News: Sunday and have just been reminded why I love the CBC. It really has improved a lot over the years and is producing some great programs especially on CBC Newsworld. Notwithstanding the cancellation of "Counter Spin", I have been quite pleased. I got a glimpse of this show Times Seven hosted my Ian. Hanomansing. It is a collaboration between the NY Times, the Discovery Times and the CBC. I was thoroughly impressed.
Just another reminder that we need to support Canadian Content and the CBC. I have a feeling that CBC funding has increased a bit over the last few years but I really need to look into it. So look forward to a much more in-depth post in the near future. While we're talking about it though, why not increase their public funding regardless, they deserve it. No, actually they don't just deserve it, Canadians deserve it!
I will contacting my MP about it. I suggest you do the same.
Oh, on that subject, for some reason lately I have been in a mood of emailing my comments to everyone and anyone. I emailed the Premier the other day with a comment and have emailed my MP a couple times. I guess having worked in a political office that cares about what constituents think has had that effect on me. And yes, it is a tad naive and idealistic to think that most other politicians care what I think. But then again, if they don't, I'll make sure that it won't be easy for them.
Ok, back to my GlobeandMail from yesterday. I still haven't finished reading it and on a side not the Globe Style Section was hilarious: Naked Sushi, Guerrilla Gardeners in Toronto and a story on the backlash to the "Metro" craze. As in MetroSexual. Look forward to a post on the "Metro" stuff soon :)
Just another reminder that we need to support Canadian Content and the CBC. I have a feeling that CBC funding has increased a bit over the last few years but I really need to look into it. So look forward to a much more in-depth post in the near future. While we're talking about it though, why not increase their public funding regardless, they deserve it. No, actually they don't just deserve it, Canadians deserve it!
I will contacting my MP about it. I suggest you do the same.
Oh, on that subject, for some reason lately I have been in a mood of emailing my comments to everyone and anyone. I emailed the Premier the other day with a comment and have emailed my MP a couple times. I guess having worked in a political office that cares about what constituents think has had that effect on me. And yes, it is a tad naive and idealistic to think that most other politicians care what I think. But then again, if they don't, I'll make sure that it won't be easy for them.
Ok, back to my GlobeandMail from yesterday. I still haven't finished reading it and on a side not the Globe Style Section was hilarious: Naked Sushi, Guerrilla Gardeners in Toronto and a story on the backlash to the "Metro" craze. As in MetroSexual. Look forward to a post on the "Metro" stuff soon :)
Rumsfeld Parody
I haven't been following the Donald Rumsfeld saga as closely as I would have liked. Watching his testimony before congress, I was blown away by some of the hard hitting questions he was getting from the democrats especially Sen. Kennedy. Pretty much, point blank demanding his resignation, to which Rumsfeld responded that he had tendered his resignation twice but good old Bush didn't accept. Hmmm...I wonder why.
I found this at the Daily Kos: State of the Nation. I found it hilarious. Let me know what you think.
I found this at the Daily Kos: State of the Nation. I found it hilarious. Let me know what you think.
Rogers Help was Actually Decent
So after going to write a post this evening (and by evening I mean 1:30am), my computer was unable to connect to the internet. I checked my network, router, tried every trick I knew. Well, I had no other choice but to call Rogers Help. My first comment is about the new automated voice recognition system. It is pretty cool, although i prefer to press in the numbers since I find it easier when inputing phone numbers and information. But it was great - all I needed to say was "Tech Support" and that was it. Technology ceases to amaze me :)
So I finally get to the help guy and the wait was about 1min. Not bad, but I c'mon it's 2am so not a true test of Rogers' resolve to deliver quality and timely customer service. My plan was to be very upfront with the guy. I told him my problem, what I thought it was, outined all the steps I had already taken and told him we wouldn't need to do those. It probably saved a lot of time. Like reseting this, turn off that. Please...I know how to do that. I've called in one too many times to call for crap like that. So he really tries everything. Reset my network adapter, uninstalled stuff, even tried to connect to my cable modem through USB. Nothing worked. Then he suggested the simple thing of doing a system restore. Presto...It worked!
It was an interesting hour on the phone with him. I was in a fun mood and struck up a conversation with him. I asked about the downloading policy - rogers caps bandwitdh at 61gigs a month, I found out that my traffic so far this month has been 9gigs, and I asked about my wireless problems. I have to say he was nice and very helpful. The telling thing for me was when I told him my problem, he said "Sorry to hear that, I can help you with that" - yes a rehearsed line but at least Rogers has given them that line to say.
So to make a long story short, I was impressed! For those that are wondering how to view your internet usage, check out the Customer Service website. It is great. You'll need to register and make sure you have your account number and postal code handy. You can view your usage in a pretty easy display along with view your bills etc...
Let me announce a challenge: I would like to see if anyone has used more bandwitdh than I have. Go check and see how you stack up. Try to beat 9gigs! Consider yourself challenged.
So I finally get to the help guy and the wait was about 1min. Not bad, but I c'mon it's 2am so not a true test of Rogers' resolve to deliver quality and timely customer service. My plan was to be very upfront with the guy. I told him my problem, what I thought it was, outined all the steps I had already taken and told him we wouldn't need to do those. It probably saved a lot of time. Like reseting this, turn off that. Please...I know how to do that. I've called in one too many times to call for crap like that. So he really tries everything. Reset my network adapter, uninstalled stuff, even tried to connect to my cable modem through USB. Nothing worked. Then he suggested the simple thing of doing a system restore. Presto...It worked!
It was an interesting hour on the phone with him. I was in a fun mood and struck up a conversation with him. I asked about the downloading policy - rogers caps bandwitdh at 61gigs a month, I found out that my traffic so far this month has been 9gigs, and I asked about my wireless problems. I have to say he was nice and very helpful. The telling thing for me was when I told him my problem, he said "Sorry to hear that, I can help you with that" - yes a rehearsed line but at least Rogers has given them that line to say.
So to make a long story short, I was impressed! For those that are wondering how to view your internet usage, check out the Customer Service website. It is great. You'll need to register and make sure you have your account number and postal code handy. You can view your usage in a pretty easy display along with view your bills etc...
Let me announce a challenge: I would like to see if anyone has used more bandwitdh than I have. Go check and see how you stack up. Try to beat 9gigs! Consider yourself challenged.
Saturday, June 25, 2005
Kudos to Ken Dryden
Ken Dryden suprised me today with an incredibly articulate piece in Friday's Toronto Star. I was thoroughly impressed with it and I hope it goes a long way to convince the many moderates out there who aren't yet convinved of the logical/moral/ethical reasons behind legalizing same-sex marriage.
I, of course, am in full support of the same-sex legislation. I don't mind the latest amendments to C-38 if it means it will now pass, but would have liked for churchs to start to worry about losing their non-profit status, which works out to be indirect funding. They would lose such status, as I understand it, if they advocate against the law or act illegally regarding the issue. (I hope I got that right, please correct me otherwise).
The Federal Conservatives are totally out in right field on this one. They obviously fail to understand that a) negative doesn't sell b) the majority of canadians are socially progressive. The sad part is that because of Harper and his staff's ineptitudes the canadian people no longer have an alternative to the Liberals. Don't get me wrong, I am as Liberal as one gets, but I also love Canada and think it benefits from a vibrant democracy, which would require decent alternatives.
Edit after posting: Cherniak beat me to it. Check out his blog, I read it regularly.
I, of course, am in full support of the same-sex legislation. I don't mind the latest amendments to C-38 if it means it will now pass, but would have liked for churchs to start to worry about losing their non-profit status, which works out to be indirect funding. They would lose such status, as I understand it, if they advocate against the law or act illegally regarding the issue. (I hope I got that right, please correct me otherwise).
The Federal Conservatives are totally out in right field on this one. They obviously fail to understand that a) negative doesn't sell b) the majority of canadians are socially progressive. The sad part is that because of Harper and his staff's ineptitudes the canadian people no longer have an alternative to the Liberals. Don't get me wrong, I am as Liberal as one gets, but I also love Canada and think it benefits from a vibrant democracy, which would require decent alternatives.
Edit after posting: Cherniak beat me to it. Check out his blog, I read it regularly.
Hmmm..Slight setback
So, I was just read the riot act. Well not quite, but some friends alerted me to the conflict which is created by me writing about the ontario government or education since I work for the government. I totally understand, which is why I took off the posts. You can email me if you want to read them. I will consider sending them your way :)
As for this blog, I guess the Ont. gov't part of things will be on hold till I get back to school, which is a big shame because I was going to be a big cheerleader (well, unless they do stuff I don't like which isn't likely).
Ok, so back to my saturday routine of reading the Star and Globe front to back.
p.s. 34 unique visitors with a few return visits. Wow...
As for this blog, I guess the Ont. gov't part of things will be on hold till I get back to school, which is a big shame because I was going to be a big cheerleader (well, unless they do stuff I don't like which isn't likely).
Ok, so back to my saturday routine of reading the Star and Globe front to back.
p.s. 34 unique visitors with a few return visits. Wow...
The hits keep coming...
16 unique hits today from the US and Canada. Hey, that's not bad considering, I'm just a 20 yr old opinionated kid.
I also usually won't be blogging this often but as I find things that bother me, I now have an outlet to express it. I am really getting excited about this blog :)
Comments are welcome! You don't have to be a member of blogger.com to write comments so please write!
I also usually won't be blogging this often but as I find things that bother me, I now have an outlet to express it. I am really getting excited about this blog :)
Comments are welcome! You don't have to be a member of blogger.com to write comments so please write!
Friday, June 24, 2005
Make Poverty History!
So, I have been at home for the past 9 days recovering from tonsillectomy and have been watching a ton of news and reading a lot on the internet. I have been taken aback by the worldwide campaign known as "Make Poverty History" (Cdn Edition). It is really amazing. I completely agree with the goals and think it is an incredible cause.
Here's what the Cdn campaign wants in 14 words:
Well, I say that if there is a will there is a way. If it is important to the leaders of our government, and it should!, then they will find the money. Truthfully, the 0.7 pledge isn't the most important thing, rather fairer trade would do the most to alleviate poverty. However, Canada doesn't have as much influence as I would like on the other G-8 to make them drop their market-distorting subsidies. So, I will settle for the 0.7 pledge as a start. It is easily marketable to Canadians and people understand aid. The general public doesn't understand WTO negotiations.
On the worldwide effort, the US site One.org is pretty good. Also there are some AMAZING commercials worth viewing at Making Poverty History.org. Honestly they are amazing! They blew me away. Especially the Bono one.
Till next time,
Here's what the Cdn campaign wants in 14 words:
- More and Better Aid.
- Trade Justice.
- Cancel the Debt.
- End Child Poverty in Canada.
Well, I say that if there is a will there is a way. If it is important to the leaders of our government, and it should!, then they will find the money. Truthfully, the 0.7 pledge isn't the most important thing, rather fairer trade would do the most to alleviate poverty. However, Canada doesn't have as much influence as I would like on the other G-8 to make them drop their market-distorting subsidies. So, I will settle for the 0.7 pledge as a start. It is easily marketable to Canadians and people understand aid. The general public doesn't understand WTO negotiations.
On the worldwide effort, the US site One.org is pretty good. Also there are some AMAZING commercials worth viewing at Making Poverty History.org. Honestly they are amazing! They blew me away. Especially the Bono one.
Till next time,
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)
