Ok, so the holidays are over (for the most part) and I finally have the time and energy to pick up where I left off.
Name: Chuck Strahl
Portfolio: Agriculture
Grade: C-
For years farmers have been doing everything short of burning their own crops and livestock to try and get more “recognition” from the Federal government. While the merits of their cries of “injustice” are a subject for some debate, there can be little doubt that they’ve felt neglected. It must come as a kick in the teeth then to learn that the Conservative Party that they helped elect, the party that was supposed to speak to the rural Canadian, is going ahead full-steam to dismantle the Canadian Wheat Board. This is not necessarily Strahl’s idea, but he is the champion of the cause in the Conservative government and while I can slightly applaud his willingness to stick to his guns, this reeks of kow-towing to a select interest group. The lack of public debate is appalling, and cannot be condoned.
Name: David Emersonn
Porfolio: International Trade
Grade: C+
While I don’t often talk about it, I find the issue of trade with the United States an almost personal one… although I have no idea why. It is something that I have argued passionately about, even on this blog. So how is it that I actually give David Emerson, a man who stepped into controversy the way a blind animal trainer would step in elephant shit? Because he actually got the piece of shit “oh well, at least we’re not still paying our lawyers” deal done to resolve the lumber dispute. Of course, he has done little of note in other areas of contention, but he ran for elected office (and even gave voters the finger by switching parties immediately thereafter) with the express purpose of completing that ill-advised deal. Not too many politicians can claim that kind of determination.
Oh, and he immediately discreditted Harper’s clarion call for “democracy” which I appreciate quite a bit.
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