Contempt of Parliament

I have heard many comments that Canadians do not want this election, and that we should concentrate our efforts on the economy. Whereas I do agree that we should ensure that the economy gets the proper attention, there is something far more important that needs to be considered, and that is respect for government, the institutions and the people.

As a municipal Councillor, I have learned how important it is to have respect for the governing institutions, and for the other politicians around the table. As a group, we are elected by the public to govern. The only way we can govern effectively is if we, as politicians, can engage in respectful and truthful discussion, given that each person has the best interests of the community at their heart. Yes, it comes to a vote at the end, but the process and respect for the process are of paramount importance.

This past Sunday The National had a good news clip about how our parliament works, being undertaken by the Munk School of Global Affairs. It is just a 3 minutes long, and there is a 15 second advertisement the start.

Its worthwhile to watch the clip before the election.