The English Leader Debate: We need a leader with integrity

Published on April 21, 2011 by Katrina Grdasic

I realize this posting is a little late since it discusses the English leader debate which was held a while ago, but I thought a lot about it since the debate held at the Mississauga South debate a couple nights ago.

I believe Michael Ignatieff gave some excellent points that night. We as Canadians need to recognize the Conservative obstruction of a free and fair democracy through prorogation after scandal after scandal after scandal. We cannot stand for everything Stephen Harper and his Conservatives have done to disrespect the democratic institutions of this country. After all, this is why this election is taking place: not only do the Conservatives refuse to cooperate with other parties, but the government was found in contempt for the first time.

The common Canadian has the impression that all politicians are shady liars, but at least most played within the rules of the game. But don’t you think this is a problem at the same time? Those who are supposed to serve us are brought to a standard so low that actual news in the headlines, real and hard evidence that truly demonstrates the shadiness and sliminess we perceive is received with an apathetic attitude. These are individuals that are supposed to be at service as instruments to the people. These are officials who represent us, control and regulate behaviour, exercise power, make choices about our quality of life and well being, etc. The first time a government has been found in contempt, and Canadians choose to pass this issue off.

While I did think that Michael Ignatieff highlighted the significance regarding Harper and his Conservatives obstructing democratic processes, Layton successfully illustrated Ignatieff’s shortcomings in the process as well: “You don’t show up for 70% of the votes. For most Canadians, if you don’t show up for work, you can’t expect a promotion.” It seems Ignatieff recognizes this issue well and is very passionate about it, but he exhibits some hypocrisy with this statement. Canadians often are criticized for apathy due to low voter turn-outs: having a politician that does not show up for votes in the House of Commons. Recently, Jack Layton has also proposed to fine MPs absent from debates $1000 if they do not show up for votes in the House of Commons.

Not only did Jack Layton discredit the Harper Government and the Liberal Opposition leader, Michael Ignatieff in the debate on Tuesday night, he effectively showcased the New Democrats’ plans for the future. He advocated for proportional representation. This electoral system would allow parties with not many votes to gain greater representation. He also advocated for abolition of the senate: a body that is unelected and ineffective. Representing Canadian families and addressing health care, particularly for the elderly, was also seen in the debate. Ipsos Reid released a pool indicating that 55% of Canadian viewers had a more positive impression of New Democrat Leader Jack Layton.

We need someone enthusiastic and engaged in the process of it. We need someone who draws Canadians to politics, someone with integrity, and someone who has the respect for Canadian democracy. We need a leader who is exemplary of this behaviour. This is why we need a new way.

Sources:

http://www.ndp.ca/press/layton-makes-biggest-strides-in-english-debate-poll

http://www.ndp.ca/press/layton-to-crack-down-on-absent-mps