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Coalition likely to fold
(By Matthew Brett) Despite a phenomenal turnout for a pro-coalition rally on Parliament Hill this afternoon, the Liberals look as if they will fold the coalition government proposal.
The Liberal party held a caucus meeting following the prorogation of parliament this morning. As Liberal MPs trickled out of the caucus meeting, it grew apparent that the coalition government proposal is faltering.
The most clear indication came from Bryon Wilfert (MP, Richmond Hill). Wifert said “the coalition is intact,” but also hinted that the Liberal party would be willing to work with the Conservatives if they saw “a fundamental change” in the party’s approach.
Some of the key issues that need a fundamental change include EI, stimulus for the auto, manufacturing and forestry sectors, and some insurance that “not every vote is a confidence vote,” Wilfert said.
The Liberals will be meeting next week, Wifert said, and I would imagine they will be hammering out conditions for the next Conservative budget.
Gerard Kennedy virtually said that the Liberals would work with the Conservatives is major concessions are made in the next budget.
The Liberals are sending two messages to Canadians. The first is that the coalition is intact and strong, yet the second and more subtle message is the Liberals are willing to work with the Conservatives. It’s a horribly mixed message aimed at keeping their options open, and it can do nothing good for the coalition.
Another telling event that took place today came at the end of the Liberal caucus meeting today. When Bob Rae came out to speak with the press, he stood alone. When Michael Ignatieff stepped out, he was flanked by four fellow MPs. We can be certain that Iggy is the next Liberal Party leader, the same man that supported the war in Kosovo, Afghanistan and Iraq.
So where to from here? I think the key is to do all we can to support this coalition. I would stress the role the Liberals play in all of this.
Contact Liberal MPs and tell them how important this coalition is. Go to rallies and get involved. I have little faith in Liberals holding this coalition together, but it is on shaky ground and they can be influenced. Give them your support, regardless of your political leadings.
I’ve been really disappointed in the divisive Left and its damning of this coalition. This is a chance to give NDP seats in the House for the first time in history. Stop your squabbles and share your support.
Matthew Brett is the Canadian Dimension weblog manager. The views expressed on this blog do not necessarily represent his own. Read more by Matthew Brett.
