A4

Stumble Upon

del.icio.us

Digg

Facebook

Print

Email

Speak Up

Conservative leader Stephen Harper, Liberal Leader Stephane Dion, NDP leader Jack Layton, Green Party Leader Elizabeth May, and Bloc Quebecois Leader Gilles Duceppes put on their Sunday-best behavoir in the televised discussion forum. The result was that important topics were discussed about top issues like the economy, climate change, taxations and health care. If these dedicated and committed politicians can act like this in an election debate, what can't this civilized behaviour be the norm during a House of Commons question period?

The debate was a pressure cooker for all five leaders. Polls show the Conservatives are leading, so Harper was the relentless target of the other four. But Stephane Dion had to show he can get his message across to English Canada, Jack Layton had to prove his party is a viable alternative for Canadians, Gilles Duceppe needed to regain Quebec seats from the Conservatives, and Elizabeth May got her chance to present Green Party policies to all voters. There were no knockout punches, but all five leaders provided a solid performance. So why can't this work on Parliament Hill?

The reason the debates did work is the political leaders wanted it to happen. The leaders knew that Canadians would not tolerate the kindergarten theatrics that have plagued parliamentary committees and question period. Canadians aren't interested in silly political rhetoric about past or present governments. Voters won't stand for leaders that provide wishy-washy answers instead of clear, concise responses.

On Oct. 14 Canadians will return to the polls for an early election, one that was called because "Parliament had become dysfunctional." It looks like voters will pick another minority government. Regardless of the future political makeup of the House of Commons, Canadians should be sending a clear, concise message to all leaders and all MPs - respect the voters' choice and make this government work. All five parties demonstrated they can debate policy in a tough and fair manner last week. Is it not too much to expect the same post-election?