On Divas

A nice editorial from the Victoria Times Colonist re. Keith Martin and Section 13 of the Civil Rights Act. It argues that, whether or not you agree with his stand on the issue, the need is not so pressing as to justify Martin's dispute with his own party, especially in the run-up to a possible Spring election which is (according to the latest polls) starting to look quite winnable.

A similar logic applies even more urgently to the debate over our Afghanistan mission. It is good to see that Roy Cullen has decided to rejoin the team, but there are rumors now that Robert Thibault might attempt some improvised free-thinking. I would remind Mr. Thibault that the current Liberal policy is already a compromise between the greater portion of the party's MPs and your small group of "Liberal hawks". The tail, in other words, has already wagged the dog once. Why should it be allowed to do so again?

Roy Cullen Onside With Afghanistan Mission

Through a spokesperson:

“Your source has given you misinformation. Mr. Cullen has respected party loyalty and party discipline for the 12 years that he has been an MP. As such he is not going to discuss what occurred at caucus. It is unfortunate that your source does not have the same basic respect for their party or their colleagues.

“However, for the record, Mr. Cullen did at no point ever say that he would vote against the leader, or use the language that you are reporting.”

If Dion says no Afghanistan combat mission after Feb. 09, then Mr. Cullen will toe the line. Good for him. This one act has the potential to concretely effect the result of any Spring vote. Now if Dion can whip a few of the party other Divas into line, things will be looking good.