"A Government that Supports and Stands for Nothing"

March 26, 2003

This past Monday, the Canadian Alliance tabled the following motion for consideration by all MPs: 

“That this House: 

(1) endorse the decision of the Allied international coalition of military forces to enforce Iraq’s compliance with its international obligations under successive resolutions of the United Nations Security Council, with a view to restoring international peace and security in the Middle East region; 

(2) express its unequivocal support for the Canadian service men and women, and other personnel serving in an exchange program with the United States and for those service men and women performing escort duties for British and United States’ ships, our full confidence in them and the hope that all will return safely to their homes; 

(3) extend to the innocent people of Iraq its support and sympathy during the military action to disarm Iraq of its weapons of mass destruction and the reconstruction period that will follow; and 

(4) urge the government to commit itself to help the Iraqi people, including through humanitarian assistance, to build a new Iraq at peace with itself and its neighbours.” 

The Liberals used their majority the next day to defeat the motion by a vote of 183-60.  They could not agree to simply endorse a decision made by our traditional allies to restore international peace and stability.

Thus, neither did they seize the opportunity to support our armed forces personnel serving in the midst of this conflict, without the recognition or the backing of their own government. 

Nor could the government extend its sympathy to Iraqi civilians or commit to the humanitarian needs of Iraq or to the effort to bring peace to a people who have long endured the torment of domestic conflict and hostilities with neighbouring countries. 

All this because the Liberal government could not bring itself to stand with a 48-nation coalition that includes Britain, the United States and Australia. 

There are many Canadians who believe our government has done a disservice to our closest international friends and allies, as well as a disservice to our own heritage and proud tradition of taking a stand in world affairs. 

As I wrote last week, I believe we should stand with our Allies.  Yet I also recognize and respect the diverging opinions held in this highly-charged emotional conflict.  Like any moral issue, such as abortion or capital punishment, each side holds very strong views, yet should still remain respectful of an opponent’s right to their opinion.  This is, after all, what “freedom of speech” is supposed to mean! 

The Liberal government, however, has demonstrated disrespect and demeaning contempt towards the U.S. and its President, George Bush.  Liberal cabinet ministers and MPs are publicly directing offensive personal insults at the U.S. leader.  Regrettably, this juvenile behaviour reflects poorly upon our nation’s reputation. 

Now, the U.S. Ambassador to Canada, Paul Cellucci, has expressed his disappointment at the Canadian government, saying the U.S. would “stand behind Canada in a crisis, without debate and without hesitation.” 

Comforting words.  I anticipate that when Mr. Cellucci is in Fort St. John this Friday, along with our customary northern hospitality, he will also receive similar words of comfort and support.  From one friend, neighbour and ally, to another.