People-first Federalism
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People-first Federalism

When I moved from Edmonton to Ottawa in 1993 I made a promise that, whatever else I would do in Ottawa, I would try to help “Easterners” better understand the real Alberta – the one beyond the stereotypes of cowboys, large pick-ups and anti-Ottawa slogans. I promoted the can-do, community spirit of Edmonton, the rich…

‘A united Canada’
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‘A united Canada’

Federal-provincial relations are testy even in the best of times, but these are not the best of times. Pandemic, war, inflation and global supply-chain disruptions have affected us all, and it is scarcely surprising that they would also affect Canada’s federal system, as a new threat to national unity has recently demonstrated. In early 1830s…

Budget 2022 marks transition from old to new economy
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Budget 2022 marks transition from old to new economy

Federal Budget 2022 turned out to be a sober document, contrary to media hype about New Democrats hijacking the agenda, fears of reckless spending and Corporate Canada’s push to return to 1990s-era budgeting. Instead, this budget charts a middle-of-the-road approach, bending over backwards, it seems, to dispel fears that the Liberals have become socialists. It…

Canada’s political institutions need reforms
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Canada’s political institutions need reforms

It is understandable that Canadians would become increasingly frustrated with the country’s political system. Our constitution is generally said to be characterized by responsible government, the central principle of our system since 1848. Responsible government means that the government of the day, led by the Prime Minister, is responsible to parliament for everything it does….

Independent School Growth
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Independent School Growth

IF YOUR CHILDREN or grandchildren attend an independent Christian school, they are part of a growing trend. Independent school enrolments are increasing while public school enrolments are declining.

Security on the Hill
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Security on the Hill

The Hill Lobby Day provides a great opportunity for farm representatives to bring key messages directly from grassroots members to the federal leaders.

Finding your political voice

Finding your political voice

The biggest threat to our democracy is public apathy.

‘We must obey God rather than men’
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‘We must obey God rather than men’

Recently as my husband Ed and I were reading the Bible, we read Paul’s assertion that “everyone must submit himself to the governing authorities, for there is no authority except that which God has established” (Rom. 13:1).

Breakfast with MPs
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Breakfast with MPs

It’s great to have an agriculture minister who has milked cows and tilled the soil.

Trudeau strikes again

Trudeau strikes again

In the absence of a popular consensus on an issue, there is much to be said for party leaders permitting their members to vote their conscience. Whether the controversial measure passes or is defeated, the party as a whole does not have to assume collective responsibility and can focus instead on other potentially less divisive issues. It can thereby avoid alienating potential voters.