Open letter to MP Ryan Leef:
I thought I’d share some words from your own Great Leader, Stephen Harper, speaking on a mere 17 page “omnibus” bill presented in 1994:
“Mr. Speaker, I would argue that the subject matter of the bill is so diverse that a single vote on the content would put members in conflict with their own principles ... In the interest of democracy I ask: How can members represent their constituents on these various areas when they are forced to vote in a block on such legislation and on such concerns?”
I must ask: Can you really say you are representing Yukoners’ interests by voting for Bill C-38? What about your own principles?
I am personally opposed to the omnibus bill on the grounds it is undemocratic in itself. I am also very much opposed to many of the measures contained in the bill, including the gutting of environmental protection for the purposes of promoting the petroleum industry. This is a shameful action on the part of your party and the electorate is beginning to wake up to these affronts to Canadians and the Canada they once knew.
I suggest you man-up and do the right thing - take the day off and abstain on voting day. Or, you could really impress Yukoners by voting against the bill. Show us some courage, Ryan.
Lee Carruthers
Whitehorse