So we're wondering if any of you have been following what's been happening in Canadian politics this week. Events have occurred that have never happened before!
In October the Conservative party retained control by having the most votes in Parliament out of any party. Thus, Stephen Harper remained Prime Minister of Canada. Since then, there have been some proposed budget changes that have not been liked by all. The main one was a big cut on government funding of political parties. This and other proposed measures enraged the other parties.
So the centrist Liberals, the socialist New Democrats (NDP) and the separatist Bloc Québécois leaders have united to form a coalition government (which is constitutional). Led by Stephane Dione (the leader of the Liberals), they were hoping to take over by winning a majority vote on December 8 in the House of Commons (in which the Conservative party only holds 145 of the 308 votes).
Harper then met with the governor-general (the Queen's representative), asking her to close Parliament until January when he will present the proposed budget - which means the confidence vote can't take place tomorrow. She agreed.
So Canada is in a state of limbo. Who knows who will be leading after January 27th!
Note: This is really complicated. I've been trying to learn about it and digest all of it throughout the week. If you want more information, click here for a more detailed and educated account.
1 comment:
I'm impressed that you are taking the time to figure this all out! Good for you...
You should give us an updated look at your face... is it healing?
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