The Sponsorship Nightmare

How are government programs developed? Are programs conceived by individual bureaucrats sitting behind their desks? Are they developed by committee members sitting around a conference table? Are programs developed to solve problems?

Canadians can now look at the Sponsorship Program and justifiably conclude that it was a colossal failure. It resulted in a government inquiry that many have followed to the point where most have become disgusted by what they have heard and read.

It has been suggested that the sponsorship program was developed in response to the fear or possibility of Quebec separating from the Canadian family.

Was the program conceived in a prime ministerial dream? Did he inform cabinet of his dream? Did one “sharp” cabinet minister see an opportunity for profit for self and friends? Did a minister tell a deputy minister to get on with the task of program development not only with an objective in mind but a partial or complete solution?

What did the program hope to achieve? What was achieved? Perhaps what it has achieved will encourage Quebeckers to separate!

The ultimate responsibility for the program should rest on the shoulders of the past prime minister. I believe that the Commissioner, Justice Gomery, will have some strongly worded critical statements to make about the prime minister’s dream that turned into our nightmare!

I trust that lessons will be learned from this scandal, lessons for political parties, for politicians of all parties and for Canadian electors.

Care and Caution in Municipal Affairs

Major changes take place when smaller, well established cities are incorporated into metropolitan areas. Urban studies in the future will include stories of citizens who saw the redevelopment of areas of their former cities according to what the new political decision makers would think. A case in point relates to the former City of Nepean, Ontario.

Prior to amalgamation with the City of Ottawa a parcel of land in Nepean had been before the city for rezoning: it was rejected. After the amalgamation, the same zoning change was again advanced. In spite of some opposition by a few residents, the land was rezoned. The rezoning was then appealed to the Ontario Municipal Board by several residents only to have their appeal rejected but that the zoning by-law would not come into play until a site plan was approved without any disputes taking place. Those disputes would then have to be adjudicated by the Municipal Board before the zoning by-law could be approved.

At the present time, the site plan approval process is underway but the timing and the nature of the process has not been presented to the interested parties who seek to have such information. The problem here is that the Ontario Municipal Board will adjudicate any disputes, which will delay any construction from taking place; that adjudication process will no doubt be required as the city hasn’t been as open as it could be. A proper site plan has not been filed along with the rezoning application; it was merely a concept plan.

One has to wonder why the city would go out of its way to grant some type of go-ahead for a possible development without a full and proper site plan being accepted. It is like putting the cart before the horse with unfortunate consequences following. Laws are put into place to protect the interests of individuals and all parties. The City of Ottawa, it is hoped, will learn from this incident not to be in a rush to assist any party to move ahead with a project without following appropriate procedures.

It behooves the city to be careful and cautious in its deliberations and activities relating to the site plan approval, its processes and timing and site plan particulars. The City of Ottawa needs to disclose to the public how it intends to proceed, whether this is to be done in openness before the public or otherwise.

Neighbourhood Watch

The City of Ottawa has a Neighbourhood Watch program which has been described as “a program to help neighbours watch out for neighbours. It aims to get citizens involved in discouraging and preventing crime at the local level.”

It is a program that depends on the cooperation of individuals who have a shared belief that working together they can benefit their community by reducing the crime rate. It uses the observation qualities that all individuals have but are heightened as individuals take note of what might be suspicious in nature. It encourages individuals to recognize suspicious activities and to report these to the police knowing that there will be a response to their reports.

As part of the Ottawa program, there is a program of engraving possessions with personal marks for identification, if those possessions are ever stolen. As well, there is a program that encourages individuals to make their “homes less inviting as targets for thieves.”

There are brochures available to neighbours that provide excellent ideas and tips to help individuals to protect their property. Guidelines for participation are clear and the opportunities to attend sessions to learn more about the program are provided.

Criminal behaviour and activities can be very destructive of a neighbourhood. There can be a loss of property, a loss of security to the individual and the possible development of a base for the operation and growth of many forms of crime.

The Ottawa Police encourage the expansion of the program because it is believed that the Neighbourhood Watch program can prevent crime. Crime prevention is the name of the “game” and human participation is the base for the rules of the “game.”

Community Participation

Some thirty years ago a successful program was launched in the United States to bring citizens into a group for crime prevention. It depended on neighbours working together to bring a stronger sense of security to their communities.

The basic idea was to look out for any suspicious activity and to report it to the police. It was surprising how quickly citizens became alert; they became acutely sensitive to their environment and felt confident in their abilities of observation and reporting.

What we saw was the formation of “neighbourhood watch programs” which caught fire in many communities. They became vibrant in their activities and success reaped further success. It is firmly believed that criminal activity has been reduced to the delight of participants.

Real estate agents have been known to use the neighbourhood watch program as a feature for the sale of properties. While driving the local communities with their clients the posted signs were highlighted.

The concept of neighbourhood watch programs has been extended to cemetery watch programs to prevent the desecration of cemetery properties which often take place on nights when there is a full moon or at Halloween time. There are individuals who have little respect for grave sites and have fun damaging cemetery property; they must be stopped and this prevention program can become a community responsibility

In the final analysis, sensitive and alert citizens can increase the safety of their communities, preserve a sense of community through the cooperation and assistance they provide others and prevent crimes from happening. It is a shared responsibility that reaps rewards for all residents and those individuals who are intimately involved receive a distinct sense of accomplishment and of pride.

Can we trust them?

There have been surveys in the past which indicated that the public has a low trust of lawyers and politicians. If you are a lawyer and in politics, where are you on the continuum of trust worthiness? You are doubly faulted! You must come out at the bottom end!

The prime minister of Canada and many of his predecessors were lawyers. Without making any accusations, lawyers who know the law, have avoided being charged with criminal offences. Yet, even knowing the law, some lawyers have been barred from the bar by their bar associations for they have committed offences contrary to the expectations and the honour code of their profession and against the law of the land. Justice has frequently been well served!

It may not be surprising to most readers that lawyers frequently gravitate to politics. What do they know that other potential politicians do not? Do they get elected because the general public feels that greater benefits may be derived by having lawyers represent them?

Some how or other I am pleased not to be a politician. My mother wanted me to become a lawyer. My father wanted me to become a doctor. I wanted to become a teacher. Where did I end up as a professional person? My professional careers were first in teaching and then public administration. Both, from my perspective are honourable professions.

I had considered entering into local politics but waking up from a dream wherein I was a politician, I had received a call from a local resident because his basement was flooding; what a nightmare! Needless to say, I have avoided that field of activity to choose that of writing poetry, letters to the editor, blogs, and articles for newspapers. As well, I have set up some websites that require some writing. There is another area of writing in which I share with many; that of writing letters to friends. I also write to people who seek my advice, from time to time.

I have written letters to presidents and prime ministers, to cabinet ministers and to politicians of most parties at all levels of government. I do this to preserve my sanity, at least that part that I still have, living in this somewhat insane world. There are times when I watch TV to follow politics at home and abroad. My readings include political biographies and autobiographies. I am captivated by the thought of our politicians; the attempt is to understand the why of their actions. I recall the film “Ship of Fools” which was up for a number of Academy Awards and did receive two. It was a great black and white film. Now I view the House of Commons in Ottawa as a “house of fools” or at least a house of foolish behaviour; as if votes can be gained through shouted questions, comments or answers that are given. Where else could such behaviour be condoned?

But as I see it, although politicians are not held in high regard when it comes to trust, we need them; they are required to serve as our representatives. Yes, we need them! Can you imagine; we vote for people whom we do not trust?
Perhaps a party gains power because it is viewed as the lesser of whatever “evils” exist. And when there is a minority government, a clear indication is given that the powerful voice is not one that is championed by the majority of people.

I know there are many or I must believe that there are many politicians who can be trusted. There must be many who are honest. For them to be painted with the same brush as those who are unscrupuoulous, who are corrupt and who are dishonest is neither proper nor right.

Our youthful Senate

What, a youthful Senate? Are you kidding? Well, at least a more youthful senate since the recent appointments were announced.

The average age of 66 for senators was recently reduced when 9 senators, brand new to the “Honourable” were announced. The average age of the 9 new “ones” is approximately 59. Apart from the fact that all senators must retire at age 75, the fact that some are younger than others means little as to the effectiveness of the senate. Older or younger means little when dedication to the tasks to which they are assigned is of greatest importance. All senator bring their talents to be shared in any deliberations that take place.

These appointments bring forth at least one statement of appreciation as the former Honourable Alfonso Gagliano, a minister of the Crown was not appointed to another Honourable position. If Jean Chrétien, the “golf ball”, the former prime minister, was still in power,who knows what might have happened. We recall that after "Alfie" left his previous position as a minister in disgrace, he was nevertheless given an “exotic golf ball” appointment as an ambassador. We may also recall another “golf ball” appointment when Jean, “da little guy from Shawinigan” appointed his nephew to an most important ambassadorial position. Was all that but an element or an aspect of polluted political patronage, cronyism or whatever that Canadians have grown to expect and accept?

The appointment of Lt. General Roméo Dallaire was a real “political coup”. This man has acquired the respect of most Canadians. Through his words, both spoken and written, Canadians have come to a better understanding of the meaning of genocide. He has a very good understanding of international affairs as well as those military. Canada will be well served by his participation in discussions and debates on subjects related to those two fields of endeavour. Canadians are honourd by this appointment.

As to the other eight appointments, although they may not have the respect of some Canadians, in general they are well qualified to sit as senators and to bring their voices to the committees of the Senate and top the senate floor.

We now can look forward to the next round of appointments of which three will go to residents of the Province of Quebec. Who might these “political” appointees be? Paul might know but he is not telling. It is hoped that he will do this before the Gomery report is produced but, if not, perhaps Justice Gomery will receive an appointment. He is still only 72 years of age; his appointment would be a richly deserved “political” appointment.

I have watched Senators functioning within their committees and must say that I am impressed with their performances. Some Canadians believe that the Senate should be abolished. Others have said that the Senators should be elected on some constituency basis. With these ideas, I can’t agree. Senators, with their personal thoughts and ideas, without any allegiance to a particular group, can function in due conscience and with self respect. I trust this to be the case; we are well served by our Senate, even when the members are politically appointed.

The Minaret and the Proposed Mosque

On February 12, 2003 the Planning and Development Committee of the City of Ottawa recommended to the City Council an amendment to a former City of Nepean Zoning By-law. A motion was passed and a new By-Law No. 2003 – 4 was created.

The amendment included the following: “All standard provisions of the Institutional Zone shall apply except a maximum building height of 15m excluding the dome is allowed,” This by-law amendment was for a mosque to be constructed after and subject to “A Site Plan being approved.

The By-Law was enacted and passed on the 12th day of February, 2003 and was signed by the City Clerk and the Mayor.

I was most surprised to read the following in the By-Law, “Building Height (Maximum) 15 metres, excluding an ornamental dome, church spire, church belfry, cupola, or skylight.” From the words of the original motion, “excluding the dome”, we have new words: “excluding an ornamental dome, church spire, church belfry, cupola, or skylight.” These additional words beg several questions. Where did the additional 8 words come from? Under whose authority were the additions made? Why were the additions made? Do the additional words invalidate the By-Law? Just because the new By-Law was signed by the City Clerk and the Mayor, does that make it a “legal” document? It is believed that the By-Law must incorporate the actual wording of the motion that was past without words of afterthought being provided by some party or another.

A number of appeals were made to the Ontario Municipal Board early last year with the decision order issued on Oct. 7, 2003. The Board reviewed the many facts and statements made and in its judgment concluded as follows: “the Board will dismiss the appeals, however, issuance of the order will be withheld until it is advised that the Site Plan has been approved by the City. This member will remain seized in order to adjudicate any disputes arising out of the site plan particulars.”

It behooves the City to be careful and cautious in its deliberations and activities relating to the site plan approval, its process and timing and the “site plan particulars.” The City needs to disclose to the public how it intends to proceed, whether this is to be done in openness before the public or otherwise. This project must not be delayed because of some need to have an adjudication process put in motion because of any “disputes arising out of the site plan particulars.” The Council of the City has a moral obligation to the citizens of Ottawa do what is right, to do what is proper and not to seek an easy way out of a difficult task.

I recently learned that there will be “a dome that peaks at 21m above the finished grade.”
In addition, there will be minaret; the “top of the minaret is at 35m.”

Although a dome was included in the original recommendation and passed into the By-Law, no mention was made of the minaret in the recommendation or in the By-Law, and now, we learn that there will be a minaret with a height of 35 metres which will be 14 metres higher than the peak of the dome which will be 21metres.

How high is 35metres? For me it was difficult to realize so I reviewed the heights of a number of high-rise buildings in Ottawa from the one at 100 Hinchey Ave. which stands at 35 metres for 13 floors; another building at 33 metres had 12 floors. In Ottawa there are some 86 buildings that have 12 or 13 floors; among these are the Kanata Park Towers (Towers I and II), The Vanguard Building, Ambleside III, the Jean Talon Building, the Lord Elgin Hotel, the Bank of Canada Tower and among the many other buildings, the Public Service Alliance Building. I now have a much clearer idea of what 35 metres means.

Last summer I spent 7 weeks visiting Bosnia, Herzegovina, Croatia and Yugoslavia. I was impressed with the beauty of the land, mountains, villages, towns and cities and the Adriatic Sea with its many islands. I was also impressed with both the numbers and architectural beauty of the many mosques that I saw. I took many photographs of many ancient and beautiful mosques which will be used in future articles about the history of the lands and the peoples of the former Yugoslavia.
I would call all those mosques Houses of Worship. I honour and respect the people who attend services in these buildings. They have their religious convictions. The practicing of their religion should be respected in every way possible. Diversity of religious practices will continue to grace our land. The Muslim faith will expand as the Muslim religion is fastest growing in Canada. I believe we must accommodate the increase in the numbers of mosques that will be required. Canadians will continue to learn more about the diversity of religious practices and will share in the benefits of exposure to other cultures and beliefs.

Many residents of Nepean and in particular those who reside in the Bells Corners and Westcliffe Estates areas might not know where the new mosque is to be located. Its location will be on the triangular piece of land due south of the intersection of Moodie Drive and Richmond Road. The major entrance to the mosque property will be directly in front of the intersection of Seyton Drive and Richmond Road.

The major concerns that the residents close to the proposed site have had relate to the traffic and parking problems that have occurred because of the large number of vehicles that are used to transport people to the mosque. People to the west of the future mosque will be in the shadow of the mosque during the morning time when the sun is behind the mosque. Some property owners with properties backing directly on the mosque property with be in the shadow of the mosque, during the evening time while the sun is setting. Remembering, the shadow will be caused by the building with its main height of approximately 12m at the front of the building with the “dome that peaks at 21m above (the) finished grade.” In addition, the site plan drawing shows a “yard rear” set back of only 9 metres, between the building and the rear lot line of two of the houses. There is a possibility that the 11.4 meter height of the rear of the mosque’s main building will require a set back of approximately a full 16m which is 7m more than the 9m shown on the plan. (The formula used would be the factor of 1.4 x 11.4m = 15.96m).

At present it is not known as to when and how the City will approve the site plan prior to construction. A request has been made to the Mayor to provide information on the process and timing leading to the site plan approval. The big questions are what leadership will he provide, what guidance and direction will he give to the bureaucrats at City Hall to prevent any future disputes.

Mostar

Driving on the road from city of Sarajevo in Bosnia to the city of Split in Croatia I passed the City of Mostar. Along the main highway I saw many buildings that were damaged during the war in Yugoslavia. As I did not have enough time to visit the city and wanting to see among other sites, the ancient and famous bridge that had been destroyed, I vowed to visit at a later date. This I did.

I will write a long description of that visit at a later time. For now, I can reflect upon the feelings that I had while stopping at a grave yard within the city. I noted the dates of death of so many young men. The graves of the Muslim people were well marked. I was saddened to think that so many men died which begged the questions. Why did so many die and with what results? So many men lost. Their loss will be grieved for many years by parents, brothers, sisters, and by so many relatives and friends. Such a loss to the country, such a loss to humanity!

Before the Bosnian war of 1992-95, Mostar was probably one of the most ethnically integrated cities in the world; at least it was in the former Yugoslavia. With the war, Mostar became a divided city as did many towns and cities in Bosnia and Croatia. Many lives were lost, many building were destroyed.

I spent much time in two different cities in Bosnia and two in Croatia over a seven week period last summer. I realize that there is still much animosity existing and perhaps it will take a generation or two, to forgive and as to forgetting, one can never forget that which is historical. Tensions continue to exist. I would not like to live in that “climate” of discomfort. I heard so many stories from different individuals and families who suffered; some stayed in the country, many left as refugees. Many Croats returned to their homes to find them occupied by Muslim people and had to wait some time before they could recover their homes which were frequently stripped of furniture and other possessions.

We in North America can never understand the true meaning of ethnic cleansing.
Most often they are words but when one visits locations where many individuals were massacred and hears many stories one can become truly sick of heart!

Should you care?

In the early Seventies, a young man fell in love with a young lady. This turned into a romance but when the young lady realized that her lover would not propose marriage, she married another man, with whom she had two children.

Later, the young man had to leave town to pursue his career, an obligatory military assignment. It is believed that after his return to his home country he continued to see the young lady. The young man’s name is Charles. He decided to marry another lady and that relationship produced two boys

Much later both of those marriages ended in divorce, leading to the romantic couple living together. Charles is now 56 and his friend Camilla is 57. Recently they announced that they will wed April 8, 2005. Should you care about this wedding, apart from wishing the couple a long and happy married life together?

As Charles is also by title, the Prince of Wales, he may become the King of England. Camilla Parker Bowles is a commoner. If Charles becomes King will Camilla become Queen? That is a big question.

Now, I ask, should you care?

Where is the evidence?

The recent budget from the Liberal government includes more money for the military. The increased funding is to be spread over a period of five years. What has the military said to date about how the additional funds will be spent? Where is the evidence to indicate that the monies will do much or anything to fill the gaps in the quality and quantity of military services that have existed prior to the cutbacks of the past ten or more years?

Without future purchases or increasing the number of personnel, I have suggested a savings that would result from disposing of the three subs that were purchased from the British. These second hand subs will just be a continuing drain on the public purse. It was a wrong decision then and it continues to be wrong. Can one imagine three subs floating at dockside doing little for the defence of the nation but gathering rust and whatever deposits are coming from the sea? Sink the subs, give them away, make them into museums, and do anything but use them for “defence” and money will be saved.

What is the story about the Snow Birds flying south, often during the winter months, to display their aerobatic skills to the Americans? Let the Americans use their own personnel to display flying skills with all the thrills and dangers that exist. The Snow Birds have suffered loss of personnel and equipment in the past. There are ongoing costs to keep the Birds flying. We will continue to pay for all personnel costs far in to the future with pensions and associated benefits. We do not need that continuing drain on military funding. Let the military become more involved in the defence of this country.

It has been said that major policy papers are being prepared for both foreign and military affairs. How much longer must we wait? Both these departments are stacked with competent and professional personnel. Why the long delay? If defence is important, if additional funds are being provided to make up for the deficiencies of the past then we should be seeing evidence that gaps are being filled. Where are the articles that should be written by those specialists within our universities, who should have something to say?

Can we expect a long address or article from the new Chief of the Defence Staff, whose appointment came directly from the prime minister? Will he present the facts and truths that must be revealed or will he stand before us singing the party line with words being dictated from within the prime minister’s office?

Where is the evidence?

Did you know?

For what it is worth knowing, the Canadian Senators are an aged lot, as would be expected. With an average age of 65.34 years of age, are they really old? If we look at the average age of members of the House of Commons, which is 51.76, those members are a fairly young lot! From these members of the House, Ministers of the Crown are selected. They have an average age of 55.78, just 4 years on average older than the members of the House.

Now, what has age got to do with governing? Although it might be believed that a person, who has lived longer, has had more general experiences in life, including work and family would be in a better position to render judgments on any number of topics or questions that might only be a factor when individuals present themselves for election. It might be of interest to note that in the last election a newcomer to politics who was under thirty defeated a cabinet minister who was much older. No matter the age of a representative of the people, each Member of Parliament has one vote, and that representative votes without any constraints from the electorate but at times with pressure from the party, to vote the party line. From my perspective, votes that reflect the conscience of the individual carry far more meaning and validity than the party line.

As I have indicated in the past, the prime minister of Canada has too much power. He gets what he wants and can hide from his ultimate and moral responsibility behind all possible administrative and bureaucratic mechanisms and loop-holes to distance himself from “front line” activities such as the contracts that had been issued under the sponsorship program. There is no doubt in my mind that he has always been aware not only of how things do operate but the outcome of operations as well. He was responsible for the “formulation” of the project and then moved it over to his Ministers to put it into operation. Perhaps legally proper but was it done with a sense for ethics and morality? He knew what he wanted. Did he get all that he really wanted? If yes, some individuals are now caught in the web of possible illegal activities that now reflect badly on some individuals and on the Liberal Party.

In general, Members of Parliament, Ministers and Prime Ministers have many qualities that I would view as being superior to the average Canadian. They have been elected because they have, in most instances, shown to the electorate that they would have what it takes to represent the people. For many reasons including their personalities, their intelligence, their leadership qualities and other abilities, they got elected. Their shared convictions are reflected in the law, the laws of the land which we must respect.

Senators who are appointed by the prime minister for whatever reasons, in general, have qualities that would permit them to participate in the investigatory studies conducted by committees of the Senate. It is true that the age of senators is higher that that of the House of Commons, for two reasons: a senator must be at least thirty years of age and senators can continue active service until compulsory retirement at the age of 75.

From watching Senators functioning within their committees, I must say that I am impressed with their performance. Some might say that the Senators should represent and be elected on some constituency basis. With this idea, I can’t agree. Senators, with their personal thoughts and ideas, without any allegiance to a particular group, can function in due conscience and with self respect. I trust this to be the case; we are well served!

Crime and Punishment

Our newspapers and news broadcasts frequently focus on crimes that are committed in our communities. The more serious the crime the more ink on the page or time that is devoted to the happening on TV or on the air. Those who commit crimes are most often not apprehended. In such cases, crime does pay! For the victim, hurt and sometimes even shame. Seldom is there a victimless crime. We know that crime comes at a cost to individuals and to society. That is the major reason for crime prevention which is one of the major advantages of having a competent, motivated and well-paid professional police force.

If criminals are captured, they are charged and presumed innocent until the case is heard in court. Between the time of capture and the court date, the accused remains in jail or is let out on a promise to appear in court or on a bail bond. Out on bail, or on the street permits true criminals to carry on with their criminal activities; that is part of our system of justice.

If the accused is found guilty, the nature and severity of punishment may have little or nothing to do with the crime. It may have much to do with the legal expertise of the criminal’s lawyer, any record of past criminal activity and the punishment any past crimes committed.

What type of news is provided the public? Is the public aware of the punishment that is meted out in our courts? Are some justices soft on crime or softer than others? Is the public generally aware of the punishment that is awarded to the crimes that were highlighted in the past? Who judges the judge and the system of justice?

We often have heard that the punishment given is used as a deterrent to future criminal activity. If this is true, what evidence is there to permit us to believe when criminals continue committing crimes?

Do you advocate?

Definition, to advocate: to plead on behalf of, use persuasion in support of. Do you advocate?

We all react to advocacy. Remember the Tsunami of Dec. 26, 2004. So many voices were heard pleading for assistance, with much success. Many from around the world responded through governments, organizations and as individuals.

There were some individuals who expressed concerns about how some of the monies collected for assistance to the Tsunami victims would be diverted into the pockets of corrupt individuals, middlemen, bureaucrats and elected officials. We shall learn at some time in the future how well the assistance did get to those who were in dire need.

Transparency International, the non-governmental agency that combats corruption through its annual reports clearly indicated that corruption exists in nations around the world. Transparency International is an advocate for all of humanity against world corruption. Information about Transparency International can be found at: http://www.transparency.org/

There are individual needs, community needs, and many needs that require advocates. If something, some group of people or whatever is worthy of support, then advocates are required. Do you share your abilities, time and energy for others? Do you advocate?

Corruption, here, there, everywhere!

Most of us in Canada, if ever we think of corruption, think of it as being at the local, provincial or national levels. A recent article appeared in the Ottawa Citizen of March 17, 2005, by Richard Beeston of THE TIMES LONDON which highlighted the fact that Canada was 12th on a list of 146 countries on a "Corruption Perceptions Index, 2004." Canada's position was cited as being there because of the image created by "the sponsorship scandal and the corruption scandal dogging the Toronto police force."

In reviewing the Transparency International Corruption Perception Index 2003
(http://www.transparency.org ) , I note that Canada was 11th of 133 countries. Now, I wonder what the ranking will be after the recent disclosures before The Gomery Commission on the sponsorship program. The final report of the commission will not be out until December and the TICPI would be out before that date, nevertheless I predict that Canada will fall a number of positions in the rankings.

Why is there a strong concern about corruption among the many countries of the world? The primary reason is that "corruption robs countries of their potential" with monies not being used for social and educational programs. Most oil-rich countries are "plagued by revenues vanishing into the pockets of western oil executives, middlemen and local officials." Bribery of officials for public contract around the world on contracting "amounting to close to US$ 4 trillion worldwide, the amount lost to bribery is at least US$ 400 billion per year." To me, this is absolutely shocking.

I realize there are many very wealthy individuals around the world. While visiting many countries along side the Mediterranean and Adriatic Seas and the Atlantic and Pacific Oceans I have always been impressed by the number of very large private boats and sailing vessels and the number of private luxury aircraft at many airports. Yes, there is a lot of money out there, much wealth in the hands of the rich who are getting richer every day. I wonder how much of this wealth has been acquired through legitimate enterprises and how much through corrupt activities. At the same time I think of the poor, those who suffer from ill health, those who go hungry and I wonder why there is so much inequity in this world.

It is good to know that there is an organization like Transparency International, which is "the only international non-governmental organization devoted to combating corruption (which) brings civil society, business, and governments together in a powerful global coalition." Transparency International has "more than 85 independent national chapters around the world." TI believes is sharing information and provides its web site at: http://www.transparency.org for this purpose.

Patronage

By definition, patronage is “the power of putting people into advantageous positions, bestowing privileges, etc.” The prime minister of Canada is in the best position of most leaders on the world stage to grant patronage positions to political party members, individuals who provided assistance to him, friends and friends of friends. Cronyism or favouritism in the Liberal Party of Canada has been very strong for many years. The previous prime minister, the “golf ball prime minister”, was a master at the task. He not only rewarded his favourites but also his favourite communities with rich rewards for their political allegiances.

The question has come up through the sponsorship scandal enquiry (the Gomery Commission) as to monies having been directed to the Liberal Party of Canada. In fact, it has been said that some individuals who were profiting from “contracts” that are being investigated by the Gomery Commission were asked very directly for large donations to be made to the Party. It smacks of: “If you want to receive benefits from government contracts or “if you want to feed from the trough” you must contribute to the Party. We will learn next December what the enquiry report will reveal

My thoughts and ideas may be very wrong but I do care to share these. All individuals who participated in criminal activity must be charged and if found guilty must be punished. A number of individuals have been charged with criminal offenses related to the sponsorship scandal, in the hopes that monies that were falsely acquired might be recovered.

I hope that if justice is done, the perpetrators of criminal activity will be incarcerated, not only to show others that if they follow the ways of wrongful activity that they will likewise be punished. Perhaps this is a form of retribution that I should not be looking at but I am and let the axe fall heavily. I just hope that some “bleeding heart” judge will say that they have suffered loss of name, etc., that they be let off lightly. My feeling is that some individuals not only “enjoy” the fruits and benefits of illegal activity but even if they are incarcerated, once they are out will find deposited money in foreign accounts and go on to enjoy the pleasures of ill gotten gains while many poor individuals experience suffering in Canada. I say, those who have wined and dined should be fed a lot of bread and water and enough nutritious but plain food to keep them alive!

Let justice be done!

Frustration rising…

Frustrating rising...perhaps also a feeling of depression as I continue to hear testimony at the Gomery inquiry relating to the sponsorship program. Frustration because I expect so often a response that just doesn’t come. Now, I can almost predict responses to questions that are asked by commission counsel. Feeling that the person being questioned has an answer, perhaps one that might be incriminating and which would not be forthcoming but an answer would be given, such as: “I can’t remember.” This is pure “selective memory loss” and, might I ask, who has never used such a technique in their personal lives?

Now, when it comes to depression, is it induced through realizing that the Canadian public has been taken advantage of, by schemers through their lies, deceit and most unscrupulous activities? Could these individuals simply be called thieves? Am I just prejudiced? Where does all of this lead us?

Justice Gomery has much work ahead. He must, at times be frustrated and even depressed. I wish him well. He is doing a fine job. I hope that he will be able to continue in this most important task; we, the Canadian public are relying on him!

War on Terrorism

If Canada is waging a war on terrorism, the war is being lost. Not that there is a loss of human life and property but there is a loss, nonetheless.

Is there a rampant fear of the unknown, of possible terrorist activity in our milieu of daily activity? One might not believe so. People walk quite freely about their daily activities of going to work, shopping, attending to entertainment events, going to church or whatever other activities are being attended to. Yet, there are times when one is faced with security measures that have been installed to prevent, if that is truly possible, terrorist activities that might be undertaken, for example getting into the Parliament buildings or other buildings that house government offices or at airports where security measures are in evidence and some which are there but the public is just not aware that they exist.

The war is being lost because terrorism, by definition, has induced a sufficiently high level of fear, that the public permits the government to institute measures that are not only expensive through direct costs, estimated now at two billion dollars a year but the indirect costs of time required at airports for pre-flights screening, additional time at border crossings, increased costs of goods as measures are in place that require additional time for screenings and additional paperwork. All of these costs need to be met.

Not only has Canada been faced with additional public expenditures for security but so has the greatest power on earth, United States of America. Bin Laden and his terrorist associates have brought the U.S. to its knees with all the costs to American society through homeland security and the wars in Afghanistan and Iraq. These costs are being met through taxation and the increase in the national debt. But the largest costs are those associated with the burden of fear that has filled American society.

It has been said that in all wars, there are individuals who profit. In the war against terrorism there are industries that profit. There are government departments and agencies that profit. It has also been said that wars do wonders for the reduction of the numbers of the unemployed. Some industries tied to the war measures are subject to rapid growth and the additional monies requires for production wages and salaries fuel local economies. There are all those in the administration of security programs that profit, as in any military, from the food-slogging soldier to the top generals who survive in the security of their headquarters and in their more comfortable living quarters. This has always been the case throughout the time and history of civilization.

Yes, the war on terrorism is being lost!

Right or wrong?

Right or wrong? That is the question! Perhaps it is because of the communication systems of the modern world that we learn about so much that has gone wrong. But, could it be that human beings have become more prone to giving into actions that are wrong, that are not in the best interests of society, that what is done is in the interests of the individual and not of others?

So many crimes against society are done for the personal gain of an individual or that of a group. Some crimes are called hate crimes for they come out of the antagonism or racism that exists and that has grown or festered over time and have become part of the heritage of groups or even nations. We have seen so many wars and the resulting human carnage and destruction of property, and sometimes the devastation of the economies of countries. Human suffering has been part of all wars, often to continue many years after the end of hostilities.

We in Anglo-North America have not seen warfare on our land mass in well over one hundred years. That is not to say that we have not suffered both humanly and economically from wars fought on foreign soil. The Great War, “the war to end all wars”, better know today as the First World War has been thought of as the “birth of the Canadian nation.” So many lives were lost, so many veterans returned crippled in body and more often in mind, but not necessarily in spirit. They were a hardy, even a “tough” lot!

Some how or other, I, who lived through the Great Depression of the thirties and the Second World War and all those subsequent, can say that there was a goodness and honesty among those “old timers.” What did they possess that we do not? Were there a sense of morals and a sense of respect for others and the property of others built into family and community life? Did the school systems contribute to a more respectful and honourable way of life? Were the many churches of the day contributors to an ethical code of general conduct that is not in evidence today? Were people more God fearing and did the fear of hell fire fill the minds of many who were guided by the Ten Commandments, by Books of Scripture, by the words of holy men and by religious teachings?

If we have gone “wrong” where, why and how did that take place?

We can’t listen to the news on the radio or see the news on television or read the newspapers without glaring items of crime, including murders, rapes, robberies, frauds and the charges against many for their anti-social behaviours being reported on and commented upon.

How can our societies of today bring about the changes necessary for people to not only distinguish right from wrong but to act in moral and proper ways? Do our children learn so much through our systems of communication that perhaps tighter controls may be necessary? Has our “democratic” way and style of living lead us down a path of comfort and then inducing a mind set of less resistance to that which is not good?

Where are our leaders who might inspire us by their words and good example to recognize what is wrong and help us to do what is right?

Sad but true…

It is possible for a permanent resident in Canada to be detained by the government and held for a period of 48 hours and beyond, even if a surety bond is presented. This power comes under the authority of a Security Certificate which is issued under the Immigration and Refugee Protection Act.

A major purpose for these certificates was to have a fast-track process in place to get rid of individuals deemed to be dangerous to the security of Canada. The problem with these certificates is that individuals can be held in prison based on secret information even without charges being laid.

I believe that the use of these certificates can be viewed as undemocratic and in violation of fundamental human rights which are guaranteed under the Canadian Charter of Rights and Freedoms. It is believed that individuals who are now being held should be entitled to a fair hearing with full disclosure of any and all evidence that is being used against them.

Canadians should not tolerate the existence of these certificates and the secret trials that could be used. As a number of members of the Canadian Ministry are involved in the process and application of the security certificates, it is suggested that letters be written to the Prime Minister, The Right Honourable Paul Martin expressing your concerns at his office:

The Right Honourable Paul Martin,
House of Commons
Ottawa, Ontario K1A 0A6

P.S. No stamp is required on the envelope.

Unlisted…

I awakened this morning from a deep sleep with my first thoughts on the “fabulous 20”, renamed in the real world as the “FABLED 20”.

I can claim among my ancestors, thieves, murderers, soldiers, sailors, tinkers, tailors, bone merchants, green grocers, and shoe makers, along with religious persons of many cloths including bishops, cardinals, and even possibly a pope or two. Yes, there are traces of blue blood coursing through my veins and when I really come to think of it, you probably have as well.

Countless years ago, from deep dark Africa my ancestors made there ways to many lands. They were energetic and intelligent. They survived. And here am I, dreaming dreams beyond the imaginations of most. I carry with me the magical ingredient of the highest of highs. I carry with me the power to create and recreate. I carry with me the power of love, that wonderful instinctual source of revelry, pleasure, delight, that element within which rests the secret of eternity.

I perhaps am among the fortunate or at least, those graced with the genius to perceive and conceive of the timeless continuity of eternity. This is the power and vision of the enlightened astronomer who understands the existence of the worlds beyond worlds, the mathematics of mathematics and truths within truths. We require no chemicals for our highs!

Now to return to the real world of the “fabled 20” THC marijuana claimed to be growing in Canada. My telephone number is unlisted. I am not interested in receiving calls relating to “FAB 20”. The U.S. drug czar, John Walters, claims knowledge of this dream drug. He is an American public official and with a little ingenuity contact can be made with him or his office. His star is rising. He could even become better known, through the passing years, than the likes of Presley and Jackson. He may have identified a new rush for the golden “FAB 20”. The new “El Dorado” of the north, richer by far than the diamonds of the north and richer than his own imagination!

I can claim among my ancestors magic mushroom users, peyote users, smokers of sacred pipes, medicine persons who used drugs wisely and well but I am not one of those.

I am a man of nature and spirituality. My path is through the forests with the beauty of green, the multi-colored environment, the music of bird songs, of insects and creatures searching for mates or going about their business of living, of the ponds, streams and lakes, of the night sky with the thousands of lights of eternity, there for me and you! What need do we have for the “FAB 20” or any other drugs? We are among the fortunate!

Finger pointing…

John Walters, the American drug czar, wearing his white hat points to Canada as the source of high potency marijuana that is doing damage to the U.S. war on drugs. We know that some marijuana grown in Canada is of high quality and is much desired by some Americans. Yet, Canada can only account for no more that 2% of the marijuana used in the U.S. The remaining 98% comes mainly from Mexico and from grow-ops within the United States. It is just too easy to point a finger at Canada.

If Canada is growing marijuana with a THC of 8 to 9%, and possibly as high as 20%, highly motivated Americans with their entrepreneurial abilities and technical skills are well into this “high quality” cultivation. He may speak of organized crime and Canada but we all know that the United States is a hot bed of organized crime, has been and will probably always be. If money is to be made at anything, Americans will be there. Organized crime knows no national boundaries. It is rampant in its growth around the world.

To return to the marijuana situation and treating it as a drug that is doing great damage to American citizens, the U.S. drug czar should put on his white hat and get on his high horse and look to the American South, South West and the West where there are serious problems with methamphetamines which are being injected and smoked to a high degree. Other drugs are being abused, for example, amphetamines, cocaine, opiates, including morphine and heroin.

Yes, Mr. Walters, keep your nose in your own American business; surely you must be able to recognize that a big job needs to be done there! We know that you are perhaps only capturing 10% of drugs getting into the U.S. We in Canada know that we have a problem with grow-ops, and with drugs being smuggled in from the U.S.

America has waged wars on poverty but there are still many Americans who are poor. The war on drugs has been going on for quite some time with little success. Your war must continue; you have no choice. Pointing a finger at Canada does nothing to solve the problem of drugs in the U.S.

If both Canada and the U.S. would legalize the use of marijuana, I believe that there would be a significant and dramatic reduction in the use of hard drugs in the U.S.

I suggest, Mr. Walters that you get off your high horse and throw your white hat away!

Legalize marijuana?

I awakened this morning with the thought that I had written a few words about decriminalizing marijuana yesterday without even knowing what that might entail. It might simply mean that a person would not be charged with an offence if a small amount of marijuana was being carried by the person and that person could smoke that “pot”, “grass” or whatever it might be called and not be charged.

I know that there was always a concern about young people being charged with possession, being found guilty and ending up with a criminal record. That was a fear that many held. The other fear was going to jail or prison where one might be subjected to all sorts of abuse. Some Americans have suffered from psychological problems and psychiatric conditions due to their prison experiences. I do not know about Canadian experiences in that area.

Now, what I was thinking yesterday, in my naive way, was the decriminalizing of the growing of marijuana. That will probably never happen. Some would say that the criminal element in society would never let that happen. If that were the case, how might that take place?

I have often thought about planting hemp seeds in public places. I may even do that some day. To see the green marijuana plants growing in such locations as the Governor General’s gardens, among the plantings at the Prime Minister’s residence, the local, provincial and national parks might become a sight of the beautiful. Just call me “Louie Hemp Seed” and the hemp plant would become a national symbol. The RCMP would have a hay day, NO, NO, a hemp day, requiring them to separate the hemp from some possible marijuana that might grow along side the hemp. Would I be charged with an offence called “public mischief” or polluting the environment? Perhaps; in all likelihood!

Never been in jail; there is always a first time!

Money in marijuana

I do not smoke cigarettes, in fact, I smoke nothing. I wish that there would be no smoking if that is harmful to the individual. Now when we come to marijuana, I must confess that it is all strange to me.

Yet, I know that it is a crime to grow marijuana. Because some individuals want to smoke marijuana, there is a market for the product. Most smokers do not want to grow the plant. That could be dangerous as it is a crime. But, they are willing to buy the product for “recreational” purposes. No matter the cost, some people will always find the money to buy. Therefore there is a market for the product. As such, there is money to be made and as it is illegal to grow the product, the cost to the purchaser is high. The profits to the producers are high. The criminals growing marijuana are making big money and certainly would not want to have its production legalized.

Now the law is there to protect the individual from the drug, marijuana. In protecting the individual, they protect the high priced market for the producer. The individual consumer enjoys the recreational activity but not so much that there would be a willingness to grow a plant or two for self and for the benefit of some friends. If growing marijuana became a legal activity, the illegal producers would lose their stranglehold of the marijuana market.

So who would lose by legalizing the growing of marijuana? Perhaps society would lose because there might be a significant loss of human productivity in the world of work, a loss to the GNP. Might there be an increase in social cost for medical services, etc.? Would the world lose because people would suffer from the human problems that would be generated? What evidence is there that there would be a tremendous loss to society? What do the studies paid for by the government say? What did the Le Dain Commission of 1970 have to say?

In our world full of fear, fear of the unknown, fear of a coming flu pandemic, of possible hurricanes, tornados, blizzards, snow storms, floods, earth quakes, volcanic eruptions, tsunamis, hunger, wars, you name it, can some form of relief be found in marijuana? Are we to be protected from acquiring some comfort and pleasure from smoking marijuana?

There are those who believe that legal sales and drinking of alcohol has brought on many social problems. There are those who believe legal gambling in casinos has brought on some social problems. Now there are those who believe that the social problems that might be brought on by marijuana warrant the growth of marijuana as an illegal activity.

Now, where do I stand? I do not know. Legalize the production of growing marijuana and then I might be able to say!

What would be lost?

If the National Hockey League were to disappear, what would be lost? There would be a loss of Hockey Night in Canada which was a standard entertainment TV packaged program for many families. It was a program enjoyed by many young people as well many others who were strong fans.
Yes, there would be a loss of entertainment which could be replaced by other hockey or sports programming.
Now the question is: where have all the fans gone who historically attended the NHL games at the arenas around North America? They have gone to other sports activities, they have gone to view films, they have gone to restaurants. The entertainment industry has not collapsed.
In the long run, if the NHL does not resolve its problems, the major losers will be the team owners and the players. It will be a financial loss to both parties.
The over-priced players will have to settle for less money to play in other leagues. Perhaps that is as it should be. Salaries of players went through the roof. There was competition on the part of the club owners for the best players in the hope that these players would bring in the fans to fill their arenas.
Was there greed on the parts of both sides of the dispute? Greed for money has been the downfall of many individuals and organizations in the past. Now it is the time for the NHL to face reality. The teams owners and the players need to recognized the they have gone too far. Neither party gained the support of the fans. Perhaps it is because the fans finally realized that the costs of seats in the arenas were just too high. Perhaps there was the realization that players were just being paid too much. And the people subjected to the day in, day out reporting of the discussions have had enough as well. The constant going back to the bargaining table has become less newsworthy over time. The general public has had enough.
Perhaps the question now should be: what would be gained if the NHL was just faded away?

International Women's Day

Tomorrow will be the International Women's Day. A lady reader of yesterday's blog suggested that the words Indian and Native might be changed to woman. I agree with my whole-heart, and who would not, we all have mothers. It is with hope that we all have women we love and who love us. Without women, we as individuals have nothing and are nothing. We must define ourselves in our relationships with women; they are central to our very existence.

Authentic Woman Standing Tall.

Authentic woman, stand tall to be counted. Stand tall with your self-respect and dignity. Stand tall before your family and friends in your respect of nature. Stand tall in your respect of your culture, your spirituality, justice, creativity, music, art, literature, sports, history and all those things that might define you as woman. Stand tall against racists and those detractors who show no respect for other human beings. Stand tall in your love, respect and appreciation of humanity. Stand tall with your ability to guide youth for they will learn, in their turn, to stand tall.

Authentic woman, stand tall for you know who you are!

Authentic Indian Standing Tall

Yesterday I had an opportunity to attend a conference on Aboriginal Arts: Engaging Authenticity. It was held at Carleton University, Ottawa, Canada. It was a presentation of the New Sun Chair in Aboriginal Art and Culture.

Among several thoughts to ponder during this conference was reflected in a most important question, that of: “Who are the gatekeepers of Aboriginal artistic legitimacy, and how does their endorsement, or disapproval, affect our understanding and experience of indigenous aesthetic phenomena?”

Major presenters were:
Literary Arts: Maria Campbell, University of Saskatchewan.
Performing Arts: Jani Lauzon, University of Toronto.
Visual Arts: Ron Noganosh, multi-media sculptor and painter, Ottawa.
Media Arts: Jason Ryle, chair, Board of Directors, imagineNATIVE Film and Media Arts Festival,Toronto.
Culinary Arts: Phoebe and Warren Sutherland, chef/owners, Sweetgrass Aboriginal
Bistro, Ottawa.

Websites: New Sun Chair in Aboriginal Art and Culture: www.trickstershift.com
Jani Lauzon: www.janilauzon.com
Jason Ryle: www.imaginenative.org
Phoebe and Warren Sutherland: www.sweetgrassbistro.com

Standing tall was mentioned a few times during the conference so I decided to write a few words about that topic.

Authentic Indian Standing Tall.

Authentic Indian, stand tall to be counted. Stand tall with your self-respect and dignity. Stand tall before your family and friends in your respect of nature. Stand tall in your respect of your culture, your spiritualism, justice, creativity, music, art, literature, sports, history and all those things that might define you as Native. Stand tall against racists and those detractors who show no respect for other human beings. Stand tall in your love, respect and appreciation of humanity. Stand tall with your ability to guide youth for they will learn, in their turn, to stand tall.

Authentic Indian, stand tall for you know who you are!

Navel gazing Natives

Has the question ever come up in Native society as to the authenticity of the People, and in the arts, in particular? Can there be any such thing as an authentic Native in post modern society?

I believe that there are very few Native, or any aboriginal peoples in North America who are living the traditional, authentic Native lives of the past. There are some aboriginal people who still live by hunting, fishing and gathering as was done long ago; for how much longer is a valid question.

A visitor to the far North will soon realize that the days of the dog sled are going fast. We see skidoos and all-terrain vehicles everywhere. Most communities have witnessed much contact with the “outside world.” Very few families would not have radios and TVs. There are computers in use everywhere. The rapid changes in Native society have borne witness to the fact that the days of an “authentic” Native are either long past or are passing very quickly.

What we see today in the arts among Natives is very much like what we see in all of society. To put it bluntly, around the world where there are TV’s and radios, computers and digital cameras, books and film, where peoples are becoming more literate, we see societies changing and furthermore, changing rapidly.

A few days spent in China by any Westerner who had not visited that country in ten years would be convinced that massive changes are taking place. At the same time, it is clear that in many third world countries changes are taking place rather slowly. We shall continue to see revolutions and insurrections in these countries where there are cadres of educated people who want to see improvements in the lot of their fellow citizens.

But an “authentic” Native person would be hard to find. Now, that does not mean that the oral history and stories of the past should not be transformed into books and into film, into documentaries and into plays. We should and do see Native peoples involved in all of the arts and they can compete with non-Natives but in that process may come off second best. There are Natives who can hold their own in all of the arts and many have either won awards for their participation or will do so in the future. This wonderful trend will continue, as will my blogs, on authenticity.

What should we believe?

Last week our Ambassador to the United States stated that we were in the missile defence plan for North America. I believe that there was an understanding that Canada would be involved. Then, our prime minister, Paul Martin,came through with a clear "NO." We would not be involved!

Did the prime minister not say earlier that there would be a debate in the house? Canadians can surmise that because of the government being in a minority position, there was no desire to be placed in a position where a vote would be required in the house.

Now the big question is what did the prime minister mean when he said that any missile traveling through Canadian airspace would require Canada’s approval? That sounds like we are in!

One thing that we should believe is that the prime minister will stand behind Mr. Justice Gomery to continue in his chairing the inquiry into the sponsorship program. The previous prime minister, I shall not mention his name, the one whose conduct before the Commission was rather inappropriate, the one who is a “street fighter”, the one who should hang his head in shame is seeking to have Mr. Gomery removed. I once referred to that that former prime minister as the “golf ball” prime minister. I do so again. He should be in Florida playing golf, using golf balls paid for by the people of Canada. So, why is he behaving in this way? That is rather plain to see. So much is being revealed, so much more will be and all of this reflects badly on the “golf ball.” Even if Mr. Justice Gomery is not removed, the “golf ball” wants the Canadian public to believe that the final report which will no doubt discredit the “golf ball” and others is the result of a prejudiced Commissioner. The “golf ball” wastes our time and our money. Let him get on with his game outside of politics, let him play golf.

For the love of….

Might? Money? Friends? Words?

For the love of words.

Today I was faced with a word, “godet.” A friend was making a flamenco dress and kept referring to the godets that were necessary. I insisted that the word godet was not an English word. I learned that I was right by using a dictionary but in using a French dictionary it was there, with several definitions, among them, for dressmaking, “flare.” That was the exact purpose of a “godet”, to make a flare or flares for a skirt or dress. The English dictionary provided one definition for flare as: “to become wider, ‘her skirt flares from the waste.’ ”

I have found that over time, I have increased my active vocabulary by using the dictionary. By looking up a particular word, given a little time, I always look at words that proceed and follow the particular word being searched. This, at times, produces some entertainment and a few laughs. This happens in and through other languages, as well. On the page for godet, I find, godaille: feast, revel, guzzle; godailler: to go pub crawling, to gormandize, feast; godailleur: pub crawler, great guzzler. Yes, I have met a few in my time! Farther down the page, godiche, godichon: awkward, simple, lout, bumpkin. Yes, I have met a few of those as well! Still, on the same page, goret: little pig, dirty urchin, dirty pig of a man. Well, yes, a description that I could have used on one man! So here we have, on one page, a godailleur, godichon and a goret, all in one man; a guzzler, a lout and a dirty pig of a man. Good descriptions!

My French vocabulary certainly has increased. Four new words all found on the same page!

The story of Roy Haines

Today I re-read a story written by Dave Brown of the Ottawa Citizen about Tony Little, a military veteran of the Second World War, who recently died. I found in the story a sense of history. It permitted me turn to thoughts of gratitude to all those persons who served their country and the world in times of war, to preserve the peace for the future. Many military personnel did not return and of those who did, most were scarred by having gone to war. Sometimes they were scarred by war wounds; sometimes with the thoughts of their buddies who never made it. The thought of why he (died) and not me? There were thoughts that some may have given up their lives so that the survivors could carry on with their own lives. There are so very many thoughts; so many stories to be told.

I believe that collections of war stories need to be made, while the veterans are still among us. There are many stories that could be told; then documented. We have war historians who write about the big events, the glories of the officers, some of whom, though declared war heroes, caused many to die needlessly. When I say this, I am reminded of stories of the First World War and the heavy casualty rate among the Canadian forces.

Now, for story that needs to be told is that of Roy Haines who celebrated with his wife, a 60th wedding anniversary, on February 1, 2005. The Ottawa Citizen had a photo and brief story of Roy's being shot down over France, escaping through Spain and ending up in a hospital in London. There he met his future wife, who was a nurse. I trust there is a very interesting story there, perhaps even a film to be made!

I knew Roy from the work place; he was always a sincere and humble man, a gentleman, a good worker, a solid citizen and probably a wonderful father and husband. I admired him. I knew him to be a dedicated person to the figure skating sports activity in Canada.

What are the military stories that he might tell? What is the life story of this man?

I wish that Dave Brown would do the necessary research and then write the story of another great Canadian, the story of Roy Haines.

Gomery rides again and St-Maurice begins.

Yes, the Gomery Inquiry is back in action; this time the hearings are in Montreal. Yesterday the Commission heard from the clerk of the Privy Council who responded to questions relating to when and how much knowledge the former prime minister had about the report of the Auditor General on the sponsorship program. Most of the day was spent on the contracts awarded to the Lafleur Communications Marketing Inc. with questions being directed to Jean Lafleur, the company’s former president.
That company took in more than $33 million with Mr. Lafleur receiving a salary of $9.3 million.

The Inquiry will continue to hear from firms that received millions of dollars from the sponsorship program. There should be a few more postings over the next few months as some interesting testimony is given.

Now, Montreal has produced another new “rider” who will serve as a focus of attention as a new member of the Liberal Party. He is none other than Marc-Boris St-Maurice who in another “life” was the head of the Marijuana Party of Canada. He comes with a score card reflecting his seven arrests for possessing small amounts of marijuana. He came to the conclusion that his Marijuana Party was going nowhere and that he would have a much better chance to move the marijuana cause ahead more rapidly from within the Liberal Party.

At the present time there is a before the Commons’ justice committee bill C-17 that would decriminalize the possession and the production of small amounts of marijuana. Such offences would be punishable with fines. Mr. St-Maurice would like to see less punitive approaches for simple possession.”