Regional RECEPTION Mississauga reception Story by Harrison Lowman, photos by Sumeeta Kohli and Susan Simms On Wednesday, February 10, the CAFP was welcomed to Mississauga City Hall by Mayor Bonnie Crombie. Attendees heard from the Mayor, the VP of the Former Members Association, David Warner and CAFP’s own Hon. Andy Mitchell.

Attendees at the Mississauga gathering.

Mayor Bonnie Crombie welcomes CAFP and CAFP President, Hon. Andy Mitchell at Mis- Hon. Gurbax Malhi, Hon. Andy Mitchell, the Ontario Association of Former Members of sissauga City Hall. Mayor Bonnie Crombie, John Nunziata, and Parliament to Mississauga. Terence Young.

Mayor Bonnie Crombie alongside Hon. Jean Geoff Scott and Mayor Crombie. Dorothy Price, Mayor Crombie and Hon. Vim Augustine. Kochhar.

Page 2 Beyond the Hill • Spring 2016 Beyond the Hill • Spring 2016 Page 3 Beyond the Hill Canadian Association of Former Parliamentarians Volume 12, Issue No. 2 Spring 2016

CONTENTS First ever global anti-corruption award goes Regional Reception in Mississauga 2 Story by Harrison Lowman, to Yemeni parliamentarian 25 photos by Sumeeta Kohli and Susan Simms By Scott Hitchcox

CAFP News 4 Election Observation in Haiti 26 How the President sees it 5 By Hayley Chazan By Hon. Andy Mitchell How it works 30 Why not join the CAFP 6 By Hon. John Reid By Scott Hitchcox It seems to me 32 Association of Former Members of the Legislative Assembly of British Columbia By Dorothy Dobbie annual dinner 7 Teachers Institute on Canadian Story by Hon. David Anderson, photo by Rob Lee Parliamentary Democracy 33 Parliamentary internship gateway to By Harrison Lowman exciting careers 8 By Harrison Lowman Where are they now? 34 Provincial and National Associations’ Meeting 11 By Hayley Chazan, Scott Hitchcox By Harrison Lowman and Harrison Lowman

The return of the Rhino Party 12 Book shelf: Tamboura: The eruption that By Harrison Lowman changed the world 38 New Poet Laureate named 15 By Hon. Peter Adams By Scott Hitchcox Book shelf: Finding Champlain’s Dream 39 Remembering those who have served 16 Story by Scott Hitchcox, photos courtesy By Hon. Andy Mitchell of The Royal Canadian Legion Book shelf: Sir John’s Table 40 Dominion Command By Hayley Chazan The return of the formers 18 By Hayley Chazan Political Passages 41 By Harrison Lowman Former Parliamentarians reflect on previous refugee crises 20 Ending atrocities in China 44 By Hayley Chazan By Hon. Youth voter apathy 22 Story by Scott Hitchcox, Geoff @ 30 46 photos by Kyle McCachen By Geoff Scott

Page 2 Beyond the Hill • Spring 2016 Beyond the Hill • Spring 2016 Page 3 CAFP NEWS

Thank yous

Dear Mr. Mitchell, Thank you so much for sending us the two DVDs, Hansard and copies of the 2015 Memorial Service booklet. It is a wonderful keepsake – one we will always treasure. Thank you for your kindness. Greg Peters, the Usher of the Black Rod. Sincerely, Cover photo by Denis Drever. Sally Stanbury Day (Richard Stanbury)

Editor-in-Chief Dorothy Dobbie Associate Editor Geoff Scott CAFP News

Assistant Editor Please note that this edition of Be- Harrison Lowman yond the Hill does not include our regular section “Executive Director’s Editorial Interns Hayley Chazan, Scott Hitchcox Report”. Jack Silverstone has retired from his post and his successor will be Editorial Board announced sometime in April 2016. Justice Murray Sinclair has been appointed to Dorothy Dobbie, Hon. Betty Kennedy, In March, CAFP’s Board met and the Senate by Prime Minister . Derrek Konrad, Keith Penner, Photo by Fred Cattroll. Hon. John Reid, Geoff Scott selected four new directors. These in- clude: Editorial Board Emeriti - Former Conservative MP Julian dent of ’s Université de Saint- Hon. Jim Fleming, Claudy Lynch Fantino Boniface. (Manitoba) Contributors - Former Conservative MP Russ • Frances Lankin is a minister in the Hon. Peter Adams, Hon. David Ander- Hiebert former Ontario NDP government and son, Jean-Piere Blackburn, Dorothy - Former NDP MP Sadia Groguhé a national security expert. (Ontario) Dobbie, Sumeeta Kahli, Hon. David - Former Conservative MP John • Ratna Omidvar is an expert on Kilgour, Rob Lee, Judy Wasylycia-Leis, Williamson Kyle McCachen,Hon. Andy Mitchell, migration and diversity, and executive The Board also appointed two new Hon. John Reid, Geoff Scott, Richard Stan- director at Ryerson University’s Global directors to its Education Foundation. ton, Susan Simms, Manon Voyer Diversity Exchange. (Ontario) These include: • Chantal Petitclerc is a champion Production Assistants - Former Conservative MP Lois Céline Brazeau-Fraser, Paralympic wheelchair racer and Team Brown Karl Thomsen, Jennifer Nehme, chef de mission at the Rio Par- - Former NDP MP Rosane Doré Susan Simms alympic Games. () Lefebvre • André Pratte is an award-winning ISSN Mark your Calendars: This year’s editorial writer at La Presse and fed- 1920-8561 Annual General Meeting will take eralist thinker from Quebec. (Quebec) place in from May 29th-30th. Our Mission Statement • Murray Sinclair is a retired Mani- On May 30th, the plaques for the 41st Beyond the Hill, a magazine for former toba judge and former chair of the Parliament will be unveiled. parliamentarians, is designed to engage, Truth and Reconciliation Commission enlighten and inform its readers about into residential schools. (Manitoba) each other, their Association and its Edu- • • • cational Foundation. Its aim is to encour- age participation in the Association and In March Prime Minister Trudeau to promote democracy. The views of the appointed seven new senators. They contributors to this publication do not were the first to be appointed to the necessarily represent those of CAFP nor Corrections its Educational Foundation. Beyond the Hill upper chamber since 2013. They in- welcomes letters to the editor, submis- clude: From the previous issue: sions and suggestions. P.O. Box 1, 131 • Peter Harder, a retired senior bu- - p.47: We incorrectly stated that Queen St., House of Commons Ottawa, reaucrat and high-level corporate ad- columnist Geoff Scott served in Par- ON, Canada, K1A 0A6. Telephone 1-888- viser, will be the Liberal government’s liament from 1978-1988. Geoff in fact 567-4764, Fax: 613-947-1764 E-mail: ex- leader in the Senate. (Ontario) served in Parliament from 1978-1993. [email protected]. Website: www.exparl.ca. • Raymonde Gagné is former presi- Beyond the Hill apologizes for the error.

Page 4 Beyond the Hill • Spring 2016 Beyond the Hill • Spring 2016 Page 5 YOUR ORGANIZATION

How the President sees it

Hon. Andy Mitchell.

want to begin my report by bidding a warm farewell to our hardworking Executive Director Jack Silverstone, who recently retired from his post at the close of 2015. Jack did yeoman’s work for the Association for five years Iand we thank him for his dedication and leadership. We wish him well in his future endeavours. We hope to have the association’s new executive director in place sometime in April.

2015 – A Look Back Last year was a rewarding one for CAFP. We kicked off Regional Receptions across the country. In doing so, we met with members in Vancouver, , Halifax and for lively conversations and good cheer. These events will continue in 2016, and we plan to partner with associations of former provincial members who we enjoy having join us to share their experiences. Our 2015 AGM featured an additional day devoted to policy discussion in partnership with the Library of Parlia- ment. Our Educational Foundation dinner featured prominent political journalist Steve Paikin as guest speaker and honoured the heroic actions of former Sergeant-at-Arms, Kevin Vickers. Our Regional Meeting in Muskoka gave members the chance to learn about the Muskoka airport’s Norwegian connection, the economic importance of the boating industry and the life of Gravenhurt-born Dr. Norman Bet- hune. In November, I had the honour of representing the Association at Remembrance Day underneath the National War Memorial, where I laid the wreath during a very moving ceremony. It takes your breath away when you gaze out across the thousands of who line the streets to honour those who fought in service to their country.

To Our New Members Post-election, the Association welcomes new members from across Canada with an under- standing of what life is like after politics. CAFP provides former members with a vehicle to continue contributing to the public life of Canada. This can be something as straightfor- ward as taking part in our Parliament to Campus program or providing advice to Par- liamentary Interns during our annual round-table sessions. It also allows former members to maintain a relationship with colleagues who served within the Senate and House in what I call a “post partisan” environment.

Looking Forward Members should mark their calendars from May 29 to 30, when our 2016 AGM will take place. Our Educational Foundation Dinner will occur in April. Finally, we are planning to hold our Regional Meeting in Halifax this year. Thanks again to all our members for your continued support and encourage- ment.

Hon. Andy Mitchell, President

Page 4 Beyond the Hill • Spring 2016 Beyond the Hill • Spring 2016 Page 5 CAFP News Why not join the Canadian Association of Former Parliamentarians By Scott Hitchcox “The greatest advantage of being involved with CAFP is the sense of fellowship among former members,” says former Progressive Conservative member Dorothy Dobbie. “Partisanship is set aside. We all work together and enjoy our shared past experience.”

ampaigning is abated, political nity to continue to make public con- approaches is the enhancement of ads have faded, and the stated tributions,” says Andy. “Second of all, CAFP’s online presence and commu- Cdates of the debates have been it provides an opportunity to continue nications. President Andy says he plans sated, but for many on Parliament Hill to share experiences with former col- to utilize social media and other online the work has just begun. Among the leagues and continue the collaboration tools to this end. Beyond coaxing new tasks to be completed amidst the shuf- and friendships established [as mem- members through familiarity, he also fling of offices is the fulfilment of an bers of parliament].” stressed that CAFP will be increasing- objective stated and vigorously reaf- With these motivations in mind, ly responsive to the shifting needs and firmed at this year’s AGM, the expan- CAFP has reached out to all potential busy schedules of former MPs. sion of CAFP’s membership base. members with the objective of bolster- “Many of these former parliamen- Study tours ing its membership. tarians are moving on to second and Membership into the Canadian As- According to Andy, more mem- third careers after their service in Par- sociation of Former Parliamentarians bers means a greater capacity for the liament,” he says. “We at the board are is open to all former sitting members association to fulfill its mandate of cognizant of this, and we need to be of the Senate and House of Com- promoting democratic practices both able to structure our program in a way mons, regardless of their length of domestically, through a parliamentary that recognizes the demands that are tenure, prestige, or political affiliation. mentorship program and the Parlia- going to be on their time.” Following the results of the election, ment to Campus educational initia- Reaching out all newly “former-ised” MPs are con- tive, and internationally, through the Though he hesitates to enunciate a tacted by CAFP with a formal invita- aforementioned study tours and elec- specific, numerical quota, Andy`s goal tion into the association, and the offer tion monitoring. is to ensure that the association reach- of complementary membership for the Additionally, more members create a es out to all folks eligible for member- remainder of the fiscal year. larger network of resources and expe- ship, use as many different platforms Tangible benefits of membership rience that can be utilized by the entire as possible to do this, and ultimately include opportunities to paid-up association. As CAFP gains members to experience a growth in member- members to participate in study tours with varied backgrounds and experi- ship, a prospect he feels very optimis- abroad and educational directives ences, it ultimately allows the organi- tic about. within Canada, invitations to promi- zation to produce better program- “From the perspective of the asso- nent events such as the annual Doug- ming. ciation we are very proud of the types las C. Frith Foundation Dinner, and Younger blood welcomed of things we do, we’re proud of the access to the contact information of all Recruitment of a new “class” of for- goals and objectives of our organiza- other individuals involved with the as- mer MPs necessitates new approaches tion, and we want to be able to have sociation. But, according to President and strategies. This latest generation the broadest impact on the greatest Andy Mitchell, membership implies a of potential members is, on average, amount of members,” Andy concludes. distinctly unique chance as well. both the youngest and most techno- “I’m excited about all of our mem- Impact on public life logically engaged of any prior parlia- bers, from those who served from “One of the things that many of our mentarians. CAFP is looking to adjust decades ago to those who just ended members are interested in is that they accordingly to best cater to these new- their service. We want to ensure that want to continue to have an impact on comers, while continuing to serve its we have an organization that has a re- public life in Canada. The association existing membership base. sponse for everyone’s needs, including provides a vehicle that allows former More social media those new members who are joining members of parliament the opportu- Foremost among these adaptive our ranks at the end of 2015.”

Page 6 Beyond the Hill • Spring 2016 Beyond the Hill • Spring 2016 Page 7 British Columbia Association of Former Members of the Legislative Assembly of British Columbia annual dinner Story by Hon. David Anderson, photo by Rob Lee

Photo Caption: (L-R) Ida Chong, Paul McKivett, Alynn McKivett and Hon. David Anderson share stories.

n late September, I had the happy hear the guest speaker, the Hon. Pat Car- her audience: if politicians rate as low in task of representing the CAFP at the ney, who served for eight years as an MP public opinion polls as the pollsters say, Iannual dinner of the Association of then as Minister of International Trade why is it that we are still called upon by Former Members of the Legislative As- in the Mulroney government, and later, our fellow citizens in these ways? The sembly of British Columbia. The dinner for 18 years, as a senator for the province. presentation led to lively discussion, was graciously hosted by the Lieutenant Pat spoke on a topic that is the experi- some interesting theories, but no firm Governor of British Columbia, the Hon. ence of every one of us—whether senator, conclusions. Judith Guichon, at Government House MP or MLA—namely, that once elected Pat’s talk certainly hit a chord with the in Victoria. The Government House staff and once you have served your term, audience. Following her words, a num- went the extra mile and served a wonder- however short or long it may be, the pub- ber of former MLAs came forward to ful dinner. lic never really lets you retire. Time after share their own experiences following re- The event was not restricted to former time, former parliamentarians are asked tirement. We were entertained by a string MLAs. True to past practice, there were to head up charitable campaigns, speak of strange requests made by our former former members of the Press Gallery, led about government and politics in schools constituents. A significant portion of the by the redoubtable Jim Hume and Brian and colleges, or to provide opinions on electorate seems to believe our power in- Kieran. Former officers of the legislature radio and television on the issues of the creases after our days as elected member were present in force, while friends and day. We are even asked for help with are over! well-wishers came from Vancouver, the work once completed in our constituency Hon. David Anderson served as a Liberal MP from 1968 to 1972 for the riding of Esquimalt- Interior and even from the Kootenays offices, such as getting those passports is- Saanich. He represented the riding of Victoria and the North. sued in a hurry. Former Senator Carney from 1993 to 2006. He was also a Liberal MLA It was a particular pleasure for me to concluded with a puzzling question for for the riding of Victoria from 1972 to 1975.

Page 6 Beyond the Hill • Spring 2016 Beyond the Hill • Spring 2016 Page 7 PARLIAMENTARY INTERNS Parliamentary internship gateway to exciting careers Former parliamentary intern, refugee now Parliamentary Secretary to Minister of Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship By Harrison Lowman

Arif Virani stands outside the entrance to High Park in his riding of Parkdale-High Park. Photo courtesy of Office of Arif Virani. t the tail end of 2015, following a to revisit the place where he witnessed marathon federal election, nearly the shaping of Canada’s future, and do A200 rookie MPs converged on some shaping of his own. Parliament Hill. However, for some in The Parliamentary Internship this group, it was not the first time they Programme had breached the varnished wooden The Parliamentary Internship Pro- doors of Centre Block. gramme (PIP) was conceived by long- The newly minted MP for Parkdale- time Wellington MP Alf Hales. During High Park, Arif Virani, had opened his 17 years in the House, the Progres- those doors 21 years previously, as a sive Conservative backbencher no doubt McGill student studying politics and noticed the limited exposure young Ca- Asian Ugandans board an Air Canada char- history. On October 15, Virani be- nadians had to the gears of government ter flight at Entebbe Airport outside Kampala, came the second parliamentary intern hidden behind those aforementioned in the fall of 1972. Photo courtesy of NHQ/AC Roger St. Vincent Collect. in the programme’s 47-year history, to Centre Block doors. be elected to the House of Commons. On March of 1969, Hales introduced mous support from all parties, and gave In doing so, the once Ugandan refu- a motion to create a non-partisan intern- birth to Canada’s first legislative intern- gee now Parliamentary Secretary to the ship under the auspices of the Speaker, ship. Minister of Immigration, Refugees and administered by the Canadian Political It was a celebrated birth at that. For- Citizenship, fulfilled a boyhood urge Science Association. It received unani- mer Prime Minister Lester B. Pearson

Page 8 Beyond the Hill • Spring 2016 Beyond the Hill • Spring 2016 Page 9 PARLIAMENTARY INTERNS

The 2015-2016 class of interns. Top, L-R: Francis (Josh) Grehan, Christina Vietinghoff, Étienne Grandmaison, Bryan Heystee. Bottom, L-R: Feodor Snagovsky, Madalina Chesoi, Yves Dushimimana, Gabrielle de Billy Brown, Alice Trudelle, Jordan Storozuk. Photo courtesy of Parliamen- tary Internship Programme. called the initiative, “…the most impor- ing their 10-month term. “That’s been just a really remarkable tant experiment in parliamentary activ- In addition, many interns have the meeting every year and a huge help to ity since 1867.” chance to visit legislatures within Can- the interns and to the program itself,” Each year, 10 Canadian university ada and beyond its borders, including mentions Williams. students, from across the country and London, Brussels, Paris, Edinburgh, Since its inception, nearly 400 Cana- from a variety of disciplines, are selected Washington, Quebec City and Iqaluit. dian students have passed through the for this paid work-study opportunity. “When they leave the program, I program. Many former interns have Early on in the unique educational in- hope they have an understanding of the gone on to become professors, bureau- ternship, students have the opportunity institution of Parliament and the role crats, lawyers, journalists and heads to select the MPs they wish to work for, that plays both in politics but also in of NGOs. Very few have sought and provided that the members represent of- the ,” says PIP achieved federal elected office. Virani ficial parties and are not in cabinet or director, Garth Williams, who was an was one of them. party leaders. They spend part of their intern himself from 1992 to 1993. “And Charting a course time working for an MP in government, I hope they’ve gained some knowledge Born an Asian Ugandan in the capital and the other serving an opposition about themselves and their own values of Kampala in 1971, Virani entered a MP. While in their MPs’ offices, interns and ideas.” society that would reject his existence focus on legislative, communications CAFP’s Educational Foundation has before his first birthday. and constituency work. Responsibilities been a major sponsor of the program Earlier that year, Idi Amin seized can include writing speeches, research- since 2005. Each year, former parlia- power in a military coup, declaring ing witnesses, responding to questions mentarians take the time to meet with himself president of the African nation from constituents, or preparing press the latest crop of interns and explain a week later. releases. As objective observers, they what it was like working with interns In 1972, Amin commenced his “eco- must also produce a research paper dur- when they were sitting. nomic war”, in which he eventually

Page 8 Beyond the Hill • Spring 2016 Beyond the Hill • Spring 2016 Page 9 PARLIAMENTARY INTERNS

demanded the expulsion of the 80,000 friendly and fun”. She says the young Asians that called Uganda home. The man’s playful yet organized character Ugandan government believed mer- revealed itself during his morning rit- chant class Asians (which included uals. Each morning, he was known to Hindus, Muslims and Ismaili Muslims) tear away a page from his comedic Far unjustly held vast wealth and jobs, leav- Side calendar, no doubt have a chuck- ing indigenous “black Ugandans” to le, and write his to-do list on the back. suffer. He said “bloodsucking” Asians Virani then graduated from law were “…sabotaging the economy of the school at the in country.” It was said that Amin was 1998, help found the South Asian Le- swayed by a dream, in which Allah told gal Clinic of Ontario, spent a year as him to expel the Asians. an assistant trial attorney prosecuting The Asian population had 90 days to genocide at the United Nation’s Inter- The 1994-1995 class of parliamentary interns leave the country. The seizure of Asian on their first day on the job. They reunited for national Criminal Tribunal for Rwan- business and property by those who had a 10th year anniversary at Anoush Terjanian’s da, and ultimately become counsel in no experience managing them was ulti- parents’ farm in Gatineau in 2005. Top, L-R: the constitutional law branch of the mately devastating for Uganda’s econo- Derrick McNeil, Ann Milovic, Geoff Pearcey, ministry of the Attorney General of my. Many escaped to the United King- Anoush Terjanian, Arif Virani. Bottom, L-R: Ontario. However, after a 13-year le- dom, India or nearby Kenya or Malawi. Jacquie Best, Nadine Blouin, Véronique Bo- gal career, Virani has returned to and Virani, then only 10, his four-year-old udreau, François Jubinville, Kory McDonald, is a part of the government apparatus sister, Shakufe, and his parents, Sul and then Parliamentary Internship Programme that saved him and his family. Lou, set their sights on Canada. Director François Houle. Photo courtesy of Virani admits there was always an “Seven-thousand were accepted into Anoush Terjanian. underlying desire to seek elected office Canada at that time,” says Virani de- since he was a 17-year-old boy reading scribing what he says was this country’s about the prime minister that made first large scale non-white immigration “It just seemed to be a great way to Canada a safe haven for his family. He movement. “And I was one of those sort of sink your teeth into actual po- admits there were times during his in- 7,000.” litical issues in a hands-on, applicable ternship when his interest was piqued. It was rumoured that following the and pragmatic way,” he says. For Virani, seeing the gears of gov- expulsion, the Aga Khan, head of the In 1994, following a nail-biting in- ernment meant that he witnessed both Ismaili Muslim sect, personally called terview in French, Virani was one of the prestige that surrounds politics’ his longtime friend then Prime Minis- 10 Canadians selected to be part of figureheads and the lack of glamour ter , asking that Canada the program. His friend from McGill’s that surrounds the majority- back- open its doors to his people. He later debating union, Anoush Terjanian, bench MPs. served as an honourary pallbearer at joined him in this tightly knit group Returning to the Hill Trudeau’s funeral. that named themselves “the parlia- Terjanian is confident the intern- Solid ground mentary smartypants”. The now ship’s intensive orientation program Virani’s family arrived in Montreal 44-year-old Virani describes that year gives Virani a leg up over his fellow on a particularly chilly day in October as one of the best in his life. green MPs when it comes to learning of 1972. The Salvation Army equipped Laying seeds of interest the details of legislative procedure. Virani with the warm garb he would That year, following a shakeup of an Virani says he isn’t so sure, although need to survive the cold wind and lo- election, Parliament welcomed a brand he was the first from the Liberal cau- cal women took turns babysitting him. new crop of MPs, as well as two new cus to book a members’ statement. Soon after, they made their way to To- political parties. Virani had the chance “So it gives me a little bit of a leg up. ronto, eventually settling in Willowdale. to work alongside Bloc Québécois MP, It’s not a gigantic leg up, things have Determination on the part of his par- Osvaldo Nunez, of the Official Oppo- changed a little bit – it’s more tech sav- ents, coupled by student loans, grants sition and Liberal MP, Paddy Torsney, vy now,” he says. “I’m not quite hit- and scholarships, meant Virani could who was in government. ting the ground running, but I’m not attend McGill University working to- In doing so, he was able to examine sort of hitting the ground at a stand- wards a First Class Joint Honours B.A. issues he felt strongly about, involving still either.” in History and Political Science. himself in Parliament’s push to imple- Now the newly minted Parliamen- A self-diagnosed political junkie, Vi- ment tougher sentences for hate-mo- tary Secretary to the Minister of Im- rani eyes were peeled for practical ap- tivated crimes, and its acceptance of migration, Refugees and Citizenship plications for the information he was gender-based claims for refugee status and a father of two young boys, Vira- absorbing. One day he noticed a poster under the Geneva Convention. ni says he is looking to focus on equal- outside the political science department Looking back at their year as in- ity, tolerance and inclusion; the same advertising the Parliamentary Intern- terns, Terjanian remembers Virani as qualities that guaranteed his survival ship Programme. someone who was “effective, efficient, as an infant.

Page 10 Beyond the Hill • Spring 2016 Beyond the Hill • Spring 2016 Page 11 Quebec

He will have some help along the Provincial and National way. In 2015, Virani was interviewed by the latest batch of parliamentary in- terns. He will likely meet the young Canadian student that selected him in Associations’ Meeting April. “I gave them a hard sell about why By Harrison Lowman I’d be a great guy to work with. But I also told them I know what they’re ca- pable of, I know the quality of individ- n early December 2015 in Quebec City, Marcel R. Tremblay, for- ual they are, I know what they want mer Progressive Conservative MP and CAFP representative, attended to do, I know about their crazy travel Ia bi-annual meeting that also included former provincial members schedule,” says Virani. “I’m not trying from Ontario, Manitoba and Quebec. They sat down in La belle prov- to convert them into the third elected ince’s capital city for some hearty discussion and laughs. representative graduate from the pro- gram, but I hope they leave with the sense that there’s an incredible amount of work that’s being done and there is a lot that people can offer in terms of public service, either as a representa- tive or as people who are supporting that representative.”

Where are parliamentary interns now? 2010 survey found that 42 per cent of Parliamentary AIntern alumni were em- ployed in the public sector. Of this number, 80 per cent worked in the federal government, including in senior management. Nearly a third of those in the federal public service had international careers, a number serving as ambassadors abroad. A few had been elected federally, provincially and municipally. One Photo by Manon Voyer. now serves in the Senate. The first former intern to be elected to fed- Left side: eral Parliament was NDP MP Judy • Ms. Linda Asper, outgoing presi- the board of directors of the AAPQ. Wasylycia-Leis. dent of the Association of Former Thirty-two per cent of PIP alum- Manitoba Members of the Legislative Right side: ni worked in Canadian universities Assembly. • Ms. Manon Voyer, executive sec- and in institutions abroad, includ- • Ms. Carole Théberge, outgoing retary of the AAPQ. ing Harvard, Oxford, Paris and president of the Amicale des anciens • Mr. Michel Morin, secretary- Berkley. One was a Rhodes Scholar. parlementaires du Québec (AAPQ). treasurer of the AAPQ. Others worked for policy institutes • Mr. Steve Gilchrist, president of • Ms. Rita Dionne-Marsolais, mem- or think tanks, while several chose the Ontario Association of Former ber of the board of directors of the journalism as a profession. Of the Parliamentarians. AAPQ. 26 per cent in the private sector, • Mr. Michel Tremblay, member of • Ms. Karen Leibovici, president more than half worked in business. the board of directors of the AAPQ. of the Alberta Association of Former The others chose to pursue law in- • Mr. Marcel R. Tremblay, repre- MLAs. cluding three who were serving on sentative of the Canadian Association • Mr. Gilles Morin, member of the the bench. of Former Parliamentarians. board of directors of the Ontario As- • Mr. Janvier Grondin, member of sociation of Former Parliamentarians.)

Page 10 Beyond the Hill • Spring 2016 Beyond the Hill • Spring 2016 Page 11 election 2015 The return of the Rhino The rears its thick-skinned head in the 2015 Federal Election By Harrison Lowman

he typical life expectancy of a wild rhinoceros is around 35 years old. TWhen its reached its forth decade, the once noble mammal’s marble eyes have sunk, its tough hide has been in- scribed with hundreds of wrinkles and its horn is permanently caked in dirt and dust. It plods toward oblivion. Not so for the Canadian federal parody political party that uses the odd-toed un- gulate as its namesake. In 2016, the Rhi- noceros Party celebrates its 53rd birth- day while charging full speed ahead. After losing its registered party status in 1993, and spending time soul search- ing off the ballot, during the most recent federal election, the Rhinos fielded 27 candidates across five provinces, includ- ing four in Alberta. In doing so, they received 7,349 votes, 3,530 more than in 2011. They also ran 13 more candidates than in 2011. What was once a ragged collection of Quebec humourists, circus perform- ers, artists and musicians, is now a more modern movement under new leader- ship and under construction. The party The Rhinoceros Party logo. Photo courtesy of The Rhinoceros Party. is aiming to push beyond its traditional French borders, while struggling to find the country’s political system. The story him. And because he doesn’t see in front its place on a much larger cyber political caught the attention of the Canadian of him, he sees only on the sides. So he comedic stage. Yet, the clowns are still party’s founders, who named Cornelius has to turn left or right, and sometimes all smiles. I, a rhinoceros in Quebec’s Granby Zoo, he turns in circles.” Satirical birth their first leader. Apparently, the rhino The 1980 federal election served as the There are five species of rhino on the was the only candidate the party fielded party’s heyday, where it ran 120 candi- planet. Similarly, Canada’s Rhinoceros in their first election in 1965. It was not dates and garnered 110,597 votes, 1.01 Party has had a variety of incarnations. permitted to officially run because it was per cent of the popular vote. During that The movement was conceived by Mon- a zoo animal. election, the Rhinos fielded Cirque du treal physician and writer Jacques Ferron Rhinos cannot look ahead Soleil founder Guy Laliberte, who ran in 1963, in an effort to poke fun at what The Quebec entertainers believed the in the riding of Charlevoix. The eventual he considered to be an increasingly pow- creature perfectly encapsulated Cana- billionaire would bring a rhino badge erful federal government. Ferron was dian politics. with him when he went to space in 2009. soon joined by a group of artists that be- “He’s like the Canadian government, In the early 1990s, the party was gan contesting federal elections. he really doesn’t move fast. He just slow- poached. The Rhinos abstained from While donkeys and elephants populate ly moves; unless in situations of danger, the 1993 election, contesting the con- America’s political environment, Canadi- where the rhino can move really, really stitutionality of new rules that required ans have but the rhino. In the late 1950s, fast for a really short period of time,” ex- registered parties to run candidates in at several Brazilian reporters decided to plains Sébastien “CoRhino” Côrriveau, least 50 ridings; costing $1,000 per can- pull a prank by entering a rhinoceros in a the current leader of the Rhinoceros didate. The move damaged other fringe São Paulo municipal election. The rhino Party. “It’s because of its horn on the parties as well. denied won and represented a protest against nose. The rhino cannot see in front of the Rhino’s abstention and removed

Page 12 Beyond the Hill • Spring 2016 Beyond the Hill • Spring 2016 Page 13 election 2015 “Laughing at ourselves and our political system is a healthy part of democracy.”

Rhinoceros Party leader Sébastien “CoRhino” Côrriveau delivers a speech to the Ottawa Press Gallery. Photo courtesy of The Rhinoceros Party. them from their registered political par- “We decided when I became the lead- ballots were cast. ties list. Lacking official status, the paro- er that we were going to ‘deMontreal- Without intense debate preparation dy party essentially disintegrated. ize’ the Party,” he says. “We’re going and image consultations, Rhino candi- Returning from the wilderness to nationalize the Rhino Party to all of dates attended debates they were invited For the next decade or so the party Canada.” to, and brought along live bands to the was splintered. In 2004, the federal The 2015 Federal Election ones they were barred from attending. government passed a law stating that a In pursuit of this goal, during the lead In lieu of strategy sessions, party mes- party only had to run one candidate in up to the most recent federal election, sage control and focus groups, candi- a federal election or federal byelection to Côrriveau became the first Rhino leader dates were free to speak their mind. be considered registered. In 2007, hav- to embark on a national tour. Over the “What’s really important is that eve- ing not taken part in a national federal course of three weeks and on a frayed rybody who is a candidate can say what election since 1988, the party regained shoestring budget (“We have almost he wants to say,” asserts Côrriveau, who official party status, under the leadership no money”), he travelled from Hali- ran in the Quebec riding of Rimouski- of early Rhino faithful François “Yo” fax (“the far East), to Ottawa (“the far Neigette-Témiscouata-Les Basques. Gourd. Gourd was joined by twenty- West”). The party also ran candidates in Nevertheless, the party did offer its something studio technician and musi- Alberta and . standard list of campaign promises to cian Sébastien Côrriveau. In December In the absence of fierce nomination the public. Over the course of its more of 2014, he became leader of the party. battles and lengthy background checks, than half-century existence, platform Côrriveau’s appointment has marked those wishing to be Rhino candidates planks have included banning guns and a distinct shift in the trajectory of the simply had to be somewhat funny and butter (both kill), abolishing the law of party. For one, he no longer wants it to contact Côrriveau online. More than 80 gravity, promoting higher education by be Quebec-centric. people got in touch with him before the building taller schools, tearing down

Page 12 Beyond the Hill • Spring 2016 Beyond the Hill • Spring 2016 Page 13 election 2015

Independent Mission-Matsqui-Fraser Canyon candidate Wyatt Scott rides a Canada goose in his awesome campaign video. Photo Credit: Youtube. the Rockies so Albertans can see the Pa- tion, a mere 38.8 per cent of youth (eli- yon, Wyatt Scott rides a Canada goose, cific sunset and counting the Thousand gible voters aged 18-24) turned out to slays a dragon with a sword and downs a Islands to see if the Americans have sto- vote. Statistics from 2015 have yet to be killer robot with laser eyes. Meanwhile, len any. This year, they brought forward released by Statistics Canada. in the Maritimes, a Halifax man, Hugh the ideas of nationalizing Côrriveau admits that he only dons Chisholm, “entered” his cat Early Grey and building waterslides at Parliament. his symbolic clown nose only half of the into the 2015 race, in an effort to raise Côrriveau says the fulfilment of these time. When he is not cracking jokes, he awareness for animal welfare. Chisholm humourous commitments would de- is concerned that his generation is not already capitalized off the Internet’s ob- pend on the clownliness of the candidate marking ballots. The Chef du Parti Rhi- session with felines in the past by “en- who was elected. At one point in its his- nocéros Party is aware of these dismal tering” his pets in elections, leading to tory, the Rhinos’ pledge was “a promise statistics and thinks his party can help changes to both provincial and munici- to keep none of our promises.” improve this by providing approachable pal policy towards cats. Punch line and purpose comedic entry points to the Canadian Yet the Rhino Party is pleased that ad- The reception Côrriveau has received political system for the politically disen- vancements to technology have brought during the Rhino resurgence has been gaged. them more company. They say that split. Many elderly citizens met him at “I have a mission that by laughing at something that is improvised can be just the door with laughs from memories politics, I am able to put the first link as valuable as more traditional methods. of the party’s past. He says he also usu- with politics to people who really don’t “The same joke 50 years ago or 40 ally receives positive reviews from candi- care,” he says, “people who don’t want to years ago was just a joke in a living room. dates. However, according to Côrriveau, hear about politics, never ever.” And right now it’s a joke that everybody the political die hards: backroom work- A crowded stage? can see,” says Côrriveau. ers, strategists, volunteers, despise them. Nevertheless, in 2016, the Rhinoceros As for whether this influx of jokesters Many devoted partisans are no doubt of- Party is no longer the only group vy- makes the 53-year-old Rhinoceros Party fended that the Rhinos are, to a certain ing to be the comedic gateway drug to any less relevant, Côrriveau assures vot- extent, making a mockery of political the politically disillusioned. Today, the ers that Canada’s most historical parody process they have devoted much of their Rhino party is joined by a raft of players party is simply taking their time to re- lives to improving. vying for the apathetic public’s attention build and intends to be around for a long What may be misunderstood is that and chuckles on-air and online; from time. the new Rhinoceros Party says it is at- This Hour Has 22 Minutes to BuzzFeed “We were hoping to have a Rhino ma- tempting to improve the process as well. Canada. jority government,” he says. “We are go- Samara Canada reports that nearly 40 They now also face comedic competi- ing to run to be a majority government per cent of Canadians say they have not tion during elections. In a self-made 2015 till the end.” had even one conversation about politics campaign video, independent candidate The Canadian rhino does not appear in the last year. During the 2011 elec- in B.C.’s Mission-Matsqui-Fraser Can- to be an endangered species just yet.

Page 14 Beyond the Hill • Spring 2016 Beyond the Hill • Spring 2016 Page 15 on the hill New Poet Laureate named By Scott Hitchcox he Speaker of the Senate and the Speaker of the House of Com- Tmons are pleased to announce the appointment of George Elliot Clarke as Canada’s newest Parliamentary Poet Lau- reate, effective as of January 1, 2016. The position of Parliamentary Poet Laureate was created in 2001 as part of the Act with the purpose of integrating an appreciation and reverence of written poetry and a promotion of literature, language and culture into the parliamentary process. Among other things, it is the Poet Lau- reate’s duty to compose poetry (particu- larly for use in Parliament on occasions of state), sponsor readings, and advise the Parliamentary Librarian on the library’s cultural collection. “The appointment is a personal holiday gift, but it is a transcendent, national rec- ognition of the vitality of our official lan- guages and doubly powerful poetries, in- formed by two great literary traditions,” says Clarke of the news. Mr. Clarke, the seventh poet to assume the role of Poet Laureate, was born in Windsor in 1960. His large repertoire of work includes chronicling the experience and history of the Black Canadian communities in Nova Scotia and , work as a parlia- mentary assistant, and as a professor in the African American Studies depart- ment at Duke University. Clarke himself is a seventh-generation Canadian of Afri- Canada’s newest Parliamentary Poet Laureate George Elliot Clarke, effective as of January 1, 2016. can-American and Mi’kmaq Amerindian Photo by Carmelita Linta. tion.” heritage. and eager, to follow previous Parliamen- Candidates for the role are submitted Throughout his varied and prestigious tary Poets Laureate in valuing in verse through an open nomination process, career, Clarke has garnered a plethora our super-natural nation’s exemplary ex- provided they meet the selection criteria of honors, including the Governor Gen- periments in democratized humanism,” of holding Canadian residency, a record eral’s Literary Award for Poetry, the Na- adds Clarke. of literary excellence and contributions tional Magazine Awards’ Gold Medal for The Speaker of the Senate, George to Canada’s literary community and be Poetry, the Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. J. Furey, has nothing but praise for the flexible and available for various parlia- Achievement Award, the Pierre Elliott newest individual entrusted with promot- mentary events. Once selected from a Trudeau Foundation’s Trudeau Fellow- ing Canada’s poetic influence. final list of nominees by the Speakers of ship Prize, the Dartmouth Book Award “George Elliot Clarke has been a true both houses, the Poet Laureate serves for Fiction and the Eric Hoffer Book ambassador of the work of Canadian po- for two calendar years. Each year, ap- Award for Poetry. He has also been ap- ets,” he says. “His contribution to Cana- pointments alternate between French pointed to the Order of Canada at the da’s cultural fabric is exceptional.” and English. rank of Officer and to the Order of Nova The House of Commons Speaker, Indeed, Parliament is looking for- Scotia. He holds eight honorary doctor- , echoes these sentiments, ward to the coming contributions of ates and recently completed his three-year adding, “His talent as poet, playwright Mr. Clarke in the realm of its cultural term as Poet Laureate for the City of To- and literary critic is undeniable. He is an promotion and the role that poetry ronto. immensely versatile and engaging writer plays in Canadian lives over the course “I'm humbled and honoured, inspired that will bring great honour to the posi- of the next two years.

Page 14 Beyond the Hill • Spring 2016 Beyond the Hill • Spring 2016 Page 15 Remembrance 2015 Remembering those who have served Story by Scott Hitchcox, photos courtesy of The Royal Canadian Legion Dominion Command Gone were the snipers, the armed service men and the apprehension of this Remembrance Day service, as all returned to paying homage to those who serve.

New Prime Minister Justin Trudeau lays a wreath alongside wife Sophie Veterans from different branches of the military stand united in their Grégoire-Trudeau. remembrance and respect. s the masses gathered in the late gents of the army, navy, air force, RCMP Andy Mitchell. This was followed by morning on a cloudy November and of course, veterans, marched along a rendition of lieutenant-colonel John A11, 2015, the mood was mark- streets towards the National War Me- McCrae’s iconic poem, “In Flanders edly different from that of the previous morial, in recognition of their fallen Field”, marking 100 years since it was year. Whereas the 2014 Remembrance comrades and of their own burden to originally published. Day ceremonies came on the heels of protect the ideals of their country. A The Honorary Chaplain, Rabbi Reu- the October shooting on Parliament 21-gun salute, during which the arrival ven Bulka, then spoke of the sanctity Hill that left Canadians very aware of of newly inducted Prime Minister Jus- of the hallowed ground of the Remem- the potential threat, real or otherwise, tin Trudeau, Governor General David brance Day ceremonies, pointing to that lurked in their midst, this year’s Johnson and other guests of honour 2014’s tragedy as evidence that, “Those observance carried no such weight. were announced, preceded the 11 a.m. who stand on guard for us, do so not Gone were the very visible snipers playing of the national anthem; a tune only overseas, but also right here in our atop the Château Laurier and other picked up by scores of the nearly 35,000 great country.” surrounding buildings, replaced by TV person crowd. “Remembrance” Bulka professed, “is camera crews and spectators vying for Guy Chapdelaine, Chaplain General not an end in itself; remembrance is a the best vantage point. Gone were the of the Canadian Forces, took the po- door-opener to an even higher emo- fully armed servicemen patrolling the dium and urged the crowd to come to- tion, the feeling and expression of grati- crowd, replaced by wide-eyed toddlers gether under their own discretion in a tude.” on their parents’ shoulders and citizens prayer for guidance, or a moment for To the supreme sacrifice made by shaking the hands of veterans, young personal reflection, as he paid tribute to so many Canadian service members, and old. The worried stares and darting those who have fallen. on land, in the air, at sea and to the eyes were no more, and indeed the only “Peace between the nations, as well as wounded survivors and to veterans time that necks were craned was during peace between one another, [is] never to young and old, Bulka led the crowd in the flyby of two CF-18 Hornets. Most be shaken by fear, or sad indifference,” issuing a resolute, “Bravo!” a profound importantly, gone was the air of nerv- he asserted. He said he prayed that, appreciation held by Canadians of all ousness and apprehension that distract- “the abiding peace for which we dare races, genders, and creeds. His final ed last year’s event from its true pur- to dream, for which we have mighty la- words echoed the sentiments of Cana- pose, rightfully supplanted by a return boured for so long, and for which those dians from coast to coast. to the ceremony’s raison d’être, paying that pay the ultimate price, whose sac- “Canada, a country in which the homage to those Canadian servicemen rifice we recall today, might be at last qualities of respect, harmony, inclusion, and women who have undergone the firmly established on the Earth.” responsibility and kindness, define who ultimate sacrifice in the name of their With this, the wreath-laying ceremo- we are,” he said. “God bless our veter- country. ny commenced. The CAFP’s wreath ans, God bless our troops, God bless At the onset of the ceremony, contin- was laid by our president, the Hon. Canada.”

Page 16 Beyond the Hill • Spring 2016 Beyond the Hill • Spring 2016 Page 17 Remembrance 2015

A view of the crowd at the Remembrance Day ceremony.

Several members of the RCMP march forward in unison. A children’s choir sings “In Flanders Fields” during the wreath laying ceremony.

A poem on peace and gratitude; one of many messages left Veterans, young and old, share gratitude and respect for one throughout the wreaths. another’s service.

A soldier bows his head next to the dates forever The colour party stands at attention through- Several members of the crowd echo the gratitude inscribed into the National War Memorial. out the duration of the ceremony. of the nearly 35,000 people in attendance.

Page 16 Beyond the Hill • Spring 2016 Beyond the Hill • Spring 2016 Page 17 RE-ELECTED The return of the formers By Hayley Chazan

on’t worry, you’ll be back.” That was the comment “Dmade by a House of Com- mons employee to , current Parliamentary Secretary to the Minister of Foreign Affairs, following his defeat in 2008. “At that time, I wasn’t thinking about what was going to happen next. I was more wrapped up in the matter at hand,” said Alghabra. “I was sad and disappointed and never really con- sidered whether I’d run again.” But Alghabra said those words al- ways stuck with him and gave him the motivation to believe that he could one day return to the Hill. “It just goes to show you how im- Omar Alghabra. Supplied photo. . Supplied photo. portant the words we say to people are years to actually understand how to to be patient, learn the ropes and ask in certain situations,” he said. be an effective MP and with only 30 a lot of questions from people who are Seventeen former MPs, including months under his belt following his more experienced. Alghabra, who either left politics or defeat, he felt like his work was unfin- “Throughout my years as an MP, were defeated in a previous election ished. A United Church minister by I’ve had some good moments, and made their comeback this October, profession, he decided not to return to some ones that were not so good and proving that leaving the Hill is not al- the ministry after politics, and instead I’d be happy to share those experiences ways permanent. became the president and CEO of the with my newly elected colleagues,” Bob Nault, the sitting Liberal Mem- Asthma Society of Canada, a cause he Rodriguez said. “They may find some ber of Parliament for , On- advocated for passionately. help in them and they may find a laugh tario, previously served in the House For Mendès, who had dreamed of or two as well.” of Commons for 16 years. In 2004, being a politician all her life, the 2011 Oliphant said one of the most im- he decided that it was time to take a defeat was devastating. portant lessons he learned as a former break. “I was crushed. I spent a good two MP is there are good ideas in every “You sort of get carried away going months extremely depressed. It was a seat in the House, regardless of par- around and around as a politician and very difficult time for me,” she said. ty or ideology. He said he intends to you don’t see the forest for the trees, as While the loss was challenging, work very hard on his relationships they say in the North,” Nault said. “It Mendès said her time off gave her the with MPs from other ridings in others was a good idea to take a break and let opportunity to enjoy grandmother- parties. the kids grow up.” hood, something she wouldn’t have While their paths to re-election were During his time away from politics, been able to do had she been re-elected all different, Nault, Oliphant, Mendès Nault got heavily involved in the re- in 2011. and Rodriguez each agreed that the newable resource sector and worked Featuring a few extra grey hairs, Pa- most important thing to remember is for on negotiations and blo Rodriguez said being out of poli- first and foremost the job of an MP is claims. He said what made him re- tics for the past four years allowed him to represent their community. turn to politics was his desire to be a to see things differently and with a “Stay close to home, organize your stronger advocate for the North. bit more perspective. Rodriguez now constituency and make sure it’s effec- For Ontario Liberal MP Rob Oli- serves as the Parliamentary Secretary tive to look after the needs of your phant and Quebec Liberal MPs Alex- to the Minister of Infrastructure and constituents. That’s the most impor- andra Mendès and Pablo Rodriguez, Communities, and is excited to get tant part of your job, even compared the decision to return to politics had started this session. to any other appointments you may be been planned much earlier. The three Rodriguez adds that while Parlia- getting on the Hill,” asserted Nault. former members came in second in the ment Hill is a wonderful place to be, it While returning parliamentarians 2011 election, and were determined is important for rookies to remember from parties beyond the Liberal Party to rebuild their organizations and run that it comes with its own set of rules of Canada were contacted for this story, again at the first possible opportunity. and rhythms. Both he and Nault agree only Liberal MPs responded to Beyond the Oliphant said it takes a couple of that it is important for new members Hill’s interview requests.

Page 18 Beyond the Hill • Spring 2016 Beyond the Hill • Spring 2016 Page 19 RE-ELECTED

Current MPs previously elected to the House of Commons

Name Affiliation Riding Dates of first and subsequent elections Alghabra, Omar Liberal Mississauga Centre, Ontario 2015.10.19 Liberal Mississauga–Erindale, Ontario 2006.01.23 Bagnell, Larry Liberal Yukon, Yukon 2015.10.19 Liberal Yukon, Yukon 2008.10.14 Liberal Yukon, Yukon 2006.01.23 Liberal Yukon, Yukon 2004.06.28 Liberal Yukon, Yukon 2000.11.27 Bains, Navdeep Singh Liberal Mississauga–Malton, Ontario 2015.10.19 Liberal Mississauga–Brampton South, Ontario 2008.10.14 Liberal Mississauga–Brampton South, Ontario 2006.01.23 Liberal Mississauga–Brampton South, Ontario 2004.06.28 Boucher, Sylvie Conservative Beauport–Côte-de-Beaupré–Île d’Orléans–Charlevoix, Quebec 2015.10.19 Conservative Beauport–Limoilou, Quebec 2008.10.14 Conservative Beauport–Limoilou, Quebec 2006.01.23 Casey, William D. (Bill) Liberal Cumberland–Colchester, Nova Scotia 2015.10.19 Independent Cumberland–Colchester–Musquodoboit Valley, Nova Scotia 2008.10.14 Conservative Cumberland–Colchester–Musquodoboit Valley, Nova Scotia 2006.01.23 Conservative North Nova, Nova Scotia 2004.06.28 Progressive Conservative Cumberland–Colchester, Nova Scotia 2000.11.27 Progressive Conservative Cumberland–Colchester, Nova Scotia 1997.06.02 Progressive Conservative Cumberland–Colchester, Nova Scotia 1988.11.21 Dhaliwal, Sukh Liberal Surrey–Newton, British Columbia 2015.10.19 Liberal Newton–North Delta, British Columbia 2008.10.14 Liberal Newton–North Delta, British Columbia 2006.01.23 Généreux, Bernard Conservative Montmagny–L'Islet–Kamouraska–Rivière-du-Loup, Quebec 2015.10.19 Conservative Montmagny–L'Islet–Kamouraska–Rivière-du-Loup, Quebec (By-Election) 2009.11.09 Holland, Mark Liberal Ajax, Ontario 2015.10.19 Liberal Ajax–Pickering, Ontario 2008.10.14 Liberal Ajax–Pickering, Ontario 2006.01.23 Liberal Ajax–Pickering, Ontario 2004.06.28 Mendès, Alexandra Liberal –Saint-Lambert, Quebec 2015.10.19 Liberal Brossard–La Prairie, Quebec 2008.10.14 Nault, Robert Daniel Liberal Kenora, Ontario 2015.10.19 Liberal Kenora–Rainy River, Ontario 2000.11.27 Liberal Kenora–Rainy River, Ontario 1997.06.02 Liberal Kenora–Rainy River, Ontario 1993.10.25 Liberal Kenora–Rainy River, Ontario 1988.11.21 Oliphant, Robert Liberal Don Valley West, Ontario 2015.10.19 Liberal Don Valley West, Ontario 2008.10.14 Paradis, Denis Liberal Brome–Missisquoi, Quebec 2015.10.19 Liberal Brome–Missisquoi, Quebec 2004.06.28 Liberal Brome–Missisquoi, Quebec 2000.11.27 Liberal Brome–Missisquoi, Quebec 1997.06.02 Liberal Brome–Missisquoi, Quebec 1995.02.13 Peschisolido, Joe Liberal Steveston–Richmond East, British Columbia 2015.10.19 Richmond, British Columbia 2000.11.27 Ratansi, Yasmin Liberal Don Valley East, Ontario 2015.10.19 Liberal Don Valley East, Ontario 2008.10.14 Liberal Don Valley East, Ontario 2006.01.23 Liberal Don Valley East, Ontario 2004.06.28 Rodriguez, Pablo Liberal Honoré-Mercier, Quebec 2015.10.19 Liberal Honoré-Mercier, Quebec 2008.10.14 Liberal Honoré-Mercier, Quebec 2006.01.23 Liberal Honoré-Mercier, Quebec 2004.06.28 Rota, Anthony Liberal Nipissing–Timiskaming, Ontario 2015.10.19 Liberal Nipissing–Timiskaming, Ontario 2008.10.14 Liberal Nipissing–Timiskaming, Ontario 2006.01.23 Liberal Nipissing–Timiskaming, Ontario 2004.06.28 "Wrzesnewskyj, Borys" Liberal Etobicoke Centre, Ontario 2015.10.19 Liberal Etobicoke Centre, Ontario 2008.10.14 Liberal Etobicoke Centre, Ontario 2006.01.23 Liberal Etobicoke Centre, Ontario 2004.06.28 Source: Parlinfo

Page 18 Beyond the Hill • Spring 2016 Beyond the Hill • Spring 2016 Page 19 REFUGEES

Former Parliamentarians reflect on previous refugee crises By Hayley Chazan

hen a former Progressive Conservative Employment Wand Immigration Minister, the Hon. Ron Atkey, thinks about the photo of three-year-old Alan Kurdi’s body washed ashore on a Turkish beach, he can’t help but recall the Indochinese crisis and the Vietnamese boat people, many of who experienced the same hor- rors of today’s Syrian refugees. In November 1978, news broke that over 2,500 Vietnamese were strand- ed off the coast of Malaysia on an old cargo ship called the Hai Hong. Their lives hanging in the balance, and with nowhere else to turn, they unravelled a handmade English sign across the side of the ship that read, “UN please save us.” Images of Indochinese refugees drop- ping into the sea and dying galvanized the world, and the story appeared on the front page of most Canadian news- papers. In the end, 500,000 to 600,000 drowned (half of the boat people). Suddenly, the question was raised, Crewmen of the amphibious cargo ship USS Durham (LKA-114) take Vietnamese refugees from aboard a small craft in the South China Sea in 1975. Photo courtesy of the U.S. National “What is Canada’s role?” Archives and Records Administration. Canada’s answer to the Indochinese refugee crisis ernment, through the late Flora Mac- way in Canada, with faith-based groups After defeating the Trudeau govern- Donald, then Secretary of State for Ex- and churches, community groups, ser- ment in 1979 on a promise to increase ternal Affairs, proclaimed that Canada vice clubs and even neighborhoods step- Canada’s intake of Indochinese refu- would boost its commitment ten-fold, ping up to cover basic costs like food gees, Ron, under then Prime Minister from the original 5,000 to 50,000 a and housing for refugees’ first year in ’s leadership, immediately in- year. Canada. At the time, the cost to private- creased the number of refugees from a Ron said that part of what allowed the ly sponsor a family was $5,000. Today, previous 5,000 to 12,000 a year. Progressive Conservative government to the cost to privately sponsor a family of However, this proved to be insuffi- then exceed their 50,000 goal was the four is approximately $25,000. cient. Migrants continued to drown at matching program. Its predecessor was “It surprised us that there was such sea, and many were ushered into camps originally put in place by the Liberal a major commitment of Canadians re- in Hong Kong, Malaysia and Thailand. government in the mid-1970s; whereby sponding to this system,” said Ron. “We had to take dramatic action, and private groups would be encouraged to “We were completely overwhelmed, in we were being versed by the United Na- personally sponsor refugees. Clark then a good way, with the success of the pro- tions to do more. First of all to allevi- promised that every Indochinese refu- gram.” ate the crisis, but also to get the United gee sponsored by a private sponsoring In 1980, the government changed States to provide more assistance, which group would be matched by a refugee hands and Pierre Trudeau was put back eventually they did,” said Ron, who resettled by the government. in power. Due to the continued sup- represented the riding of St. Paul’s. Ron said he remembered that private port of the Liberals, Canada welcome On July 18, 1979, the Canadian gov- refugee sponsorship caught on in a large 60,000 refugees in 18 months.

Page 20 Beyond the Hill • Spring 2016 Beyond the Hill • Spring 2016 Page 21 REFUGEES

A column of T-55 tanks enters the Polish town of Zbaszynek in Decem- Syrian refugees arrive at Lesbos, Greece, aboard a dinghy after crossing ber 1981, following the declaration of martial law. Many Poles fleeing from Turkey. Photo by Petros Giannakouris/Associated Press. Communist rule settled in Canada. Photo by J. Żołnierkiewicz. Canada’s answer to the Polish exodus As a second generation Polish-Cana- other countries,” Flis said. “It’s impor- While new and current parliamen- dian fluent in his mother tongue, Flis tant for future governments not to for- tarians are taken with today’s ongoing found himself at the centre of the crisis, get those relatives.” Syrian refugee crisis, like Ron, former in charge of all issues relating to Polish He said governments should be sensi- long-standing Liberal MP Jesse Flis refugees in the Liberal caucus. tive to the long-term needs of refugees can’t help but recall his own experience During his time in opposition, Flis and develop a long-term strategy in or- with a similar crisis during his time on lobbied hard to change the law and der to help families reunite, even after the Hill. allow people to seek refugee status af- the immediate crisis subsides. Flis was an MP for fourteen years for ter arriving in Canada. Eventually, the “As with the Syrian refugees, this the mainly Eastern European riding of government amended and softened its Polish crisis of the 1980s was another Parkdale-High Park between 1979 and policy. demonstration of how Canada does eve- 1997. He served twice on the govern- To this day, Flis said people in the rything possible to welcome refugees, ment side, and twice in opposition. In Polish community come up to him and to continue to build the most beautiful 1993 he was made Parliamentary Secre- thank him for his contribution. country on earth,” said Flis. tary to the Secretary of State for Exter- “Thanks to you, my son is a doctor,” Canada’s talent nal Affairs. In 1995, he was made Par- Flis said one woman told him at a recent A former citizenship and immigra- liamentary Secretary to the Minister of Polish Christmas event. tion minister under Chrétien, the Hon. Foreign Affairs. He said that by far, the biggest reward Sergio Marchi, couldn’t agree more. In 1981, martial law was introduced of his political career was helping fami- The former Liberal MP for York West in Communist Poland, whereby high- lies get reunited. Flis highlighted that said a report released 10 years after the ranking military leaders, attempted to more attention must be paid to the ex- arrival of the Vietnamese boat people crush political opposition. At that time, tended families of refugees. stated that the refugees, who arrived many Poles had already left their home- “Even with Syrian refugees, there will with nothing but the shirts on their land, refusing to return to the authori- be lost family members out there or in backs, had adjusted well to life in Can- tarian regime. In Canada, the Liberals ada. Most of them had become citizens Party was in power. and a high percentage had started their Flis explained that one way migrants own medium-sized businesses. could avoid deportation was to declare “That’s the human spirit,” said refugee status. However, during the Marchi. “People who are true refugees early 1980s, Flis said Canadian immi- are grateful for a second or third op- gration law required that such an ap- portunity at life and their gratefulness plication be made prior to arriving in translates into loyalty and dedication to Canada. This meant that Polish tourists this country.” and family visitors already in Canada Marchi said he doesn’t think there had to go to another country to claim is any other country in the world that Former Liberal MP Jesse Flis (R) being refugee status. Many went to Buffalo awarded the Order of the Polonia Restituta, handles immigration and refugee policy and Detroit and even as far as Austria one of the highest orders in the country. During as well as Canada. and Italy at great additional expense, to the 1980s, Flis helped many families fleeing “We’re not a country that brags about meet this legal requirement and start Communist Poland settle in Canada. Photo things, we’re very modest, but on this the process of bringing their family over courtesy of The Association of Polish Engineers one, I think we have the legitimacy for from Poland. in Canada. some bragging rights.”

Page 20 Beyond the Hill • Spring 2016 Beyond the Hill • Spring 2016 Page 21 DOCUMENTARY Youth voter apathy Documentary “The Drop” sheds light on youth disengagement in Canadian politics Story by Scott Hitchcox, photos by Kyle McCachen of Stoke Show Ltd.

Actor and filmmaker, Dylan Playfair, stands outside Parliament Hill on his quest to find out what millennials think about politics.

outh voter apathy. ply “don’t really care.” federal election was enough to set the Three little words that, wheth- Although filmmaker Kyle McCachen wheels in motion for "The Drop". Mc- Yer said with disgust, incredulity, was the director, CAFP member Ian Cachen then enlisted the help of Play- or shame, have come to depict the ap- Waddell had a hand in the creation of fair, and sent him across the continent parent voting attitudes of millenials, a the documentary, serving as an execu- exploring politics amongst different generation of youth who, if you would tive producer. A film buff since before youth demographics. believe the headlines, seem to take little his lengthy stint as a member of the Playfair’s first stop is, fittingly interest in political engagement. House of Commons, Ian, alongside enough, Parliament, where he scores in- This impediment for the democratic McCachen, stumbled upon the idea terviews with the major party leaders, process is precisely what the documen- for the film almost by accident, when asking them simply why they believe tary The Drop: Why Young People Don’t an attempt at making a film detailing youth voting numbers have been on the Vote, seeks to uncover. "The Drop" fol- the process of running an election cam- decline. Justin Trudeau, at the time of lows 21-year-old actor and filmmaker paign revealed that, for many youth, filming the Liberal leader, said, “When Dylan Playfair on a journey through the particulars didn’t particularly mat- you look at young people, they’re more North American politics, as he explores ter. The subsequent revelation that only involved and aware of what’s going on why some of his peers immerse them- 38.8 per cent of eligible voters between with the world.” “Young people get a selves into politics, whereas others sim- 18 and 24 participated in the 2011 reputation for being apathetic but it’s

Page 22 Beyond the Hill • Spring 2016 Beyond the Hill • Spring 2016 Page 23 DOCUMENTARY

Dylan at the Burning Man festival in the middle of the Nevada desert. Dylan talks to Justin Trudeau before being elected prime minister. usually the fact that they’re frustrated wrapped up in the party, including politically powerful than often per- that they don’t get to make themselves Playfair, who dons a cowboy hat and ski ceived. Baskin finished 8th in the race, heard, so for me young people not vot- goggles throughout many of the inter- garnering over 1000 votes. The youth ing is not a problem with young people, views, the sentiment is much the same: vote in Toronto increased by nearly 10 it’s a problem with politics.” political figures don’t represent their in- per cent in that mayoral election. From Toronto to Missouri terests. Playfair also travels to the state of While the views of politicians were This view is contrasted when Playfair North Carolina, days away from the important, the best answers in the visits Toronto during a very conten- midterm elections, in what, at the time, documentary were delivered by youth tious mayoral race, featuring the infa- was one of the most hotly contested and Playfair came across in his adventure; mous Ford family against a myriad of expensive elections yet. Again, he meets the first being those partaking in the contenders. Among Ford’s opponents is youth disillusioned with candidates, “festivities” of the annual Burning Man 18-year-old candidate Morgan Baskin, who they believe are more concerned festival in Nevada. Although many are running to prove her generation is more with airing attack ads against one an-

Dylan talks to Morgan Baskin, an 18-year-old who ran in the recent Toronto mayoral race which CAFP member Ian Waddell served as an featured a myriad of big-name contenders including Doug Ford, Olivia Chow and . executive producer on the film.

Page 22 Beyond the Hill • Spring 2016 Beyond the Hill • Spring 2016 Page 23 DOCUMENTARY

other than representing youth interests. On the last stop of his excursion, Playfair finds himself amongst a youth group with a legitimate reason to care about their representation— those in the tragedy-torn city of Ferguson, Mis- souri. After the police incidents and ri- ots, the town is trying to rebuild and its youth have responded by emphasizing the importance of their own political engagement. Continuing the conversation "The Drop" provides a necessary con- tribution to the discussion of youth en- gagement; it is one of the first that is made by youth, for youth, without an ulterior motive or underlying political agenda. As Trudeau implies in the early minutes of the documentary, decrease in youth engagement cannot be swept Dylan talks to Maalik Shakoor of Webster University about issues affecting the African American under the rug as a consequence of a dev- community. il-may-care disinterest in anything that can’t be squeezed into the dimensions of a phone screen. Rather, we must ad- dress the need for the political process to evolve to a point where the future leaders of nations feel as though their voice is heard, respected and prioritized. For former parliamentarian Ian Wad- dell, who has thus far been very pleased with the film’s success, this message of youth political capability ran through- out the locations visited by the docu- mentary. “I wish more people could see this film,” Ian says. “I personally discovered a new generation that are arguably the smartest in human history and are actu- ally very committed although also very “The Drop” encounters the protests in Ferguson, Missouri in the aftermath of the shooting of critical. It will be a challenge for pre- Micheal Brown, an 18-year old African-American, by a white police officer. sent and future politicians to deliver for them.” As for the future of the film, which was commissioned and aired on TVO and CPAC in early October and can be found on both channels’ websites, Ian hopes to produce a shorter, more acces- sible version to accompany former par- liamentarians on their visits to schools as part of this association’s continuing academic initiative. “There is nothing better than young people speaking to young people as is done in the film and then adding the ex- perience of our generation of parliamen- tarians.” Ian says. “It’s a winning for- mula. It’s about the future of a healthy democracy.” Dylan investigates a Ferguson memorial.

Page 24 Beyond the Hill • Spring 2016 Beyond the Hill • Spring 2016 Page 25 AWARD First ever global anti-corruption award goes to Yemeni parliamentarian By Scott Hitchcox n conjunction with the Interna- corruption. Additionally, Ashal has been tional Anti-Corruption Academy granted the title of GOPAC ambassador, I(IACA), the Global Organization which, according to Paquet, “Could in- of Parliamentarians Against Corruption clude representation at other conferences, (GOPAC) announced the winner of the or potential speaking opportunities on first annual GOPAC International Anti- behalf of the organization.” Corruption Award in early 2015: the Now with Mr. Ashal as the inaugural Honourable Ali Ashal, a parliamentarian Ali Ashal, a parliamentarian from Yemen, winner of the anti-corruption award, from Yemen. was the winner of the first annual GOPAC GOPAC will annually recognize the Founded in October 2002 and basing International Anti-Corruption Award in early exceptional efforts of parliamentarians itself out of Ottawa, GOPAC is unique 2015. worldwide in their continual efforts to because, according to communications dangerous to push anti-corruption agen- combat corruption on a global scale. This manager Ann Marie Paquet, “It is the das in certain countries. Our objective is year’s winner will be selected through a only international network of parliamen- to let people see what countries are doing similar process. tarians doing anti-corruption work.” so that other parliamentarians can find Ending grand corruption Comprised of 52 national chapters on the courage to do the same.” Grand corruption involves corruption five continents and boasting membership Fulfilling the award criteria requires that takes place at the highest levels of from 700 parliamentarians and 400 ob- an active GOPAC member whose actions government. servers, GOPAC’s objective is to achieve best reflect the core values GOPAC bas- On December 9, 2014, International accountable, inclusive, and transparent es itself on. Ashal embodied these core Anti-Corruption Day, GOPAC launched governance through its core values of in- values through his work in combatting an online campaign to fight grand cor- tegrity, accountability, collaboration, and corruption and promoting democratic ruption and, as Paquet says, “Call for diversity. practices in both his native Yemen and international organizations to come The International Anti- abroad. His accomplishments span a 15- together to try and find what the solu- Corruption Academy year career, and include the introduction tion may be to prosecute perpetrators for The IACA holds similar goals of over- of the Access to Information Right Law what we consider to be the worst form of coming corruption through an education and his push for parliamentary oversight corruption.” initiative, aimed at enhancing skills and within the resource sector. The movement has gained traction knowledge regarding anti-corruption “Mr. Ashal’s accomplishments are a over the past year, with the social media techniques for young professionals and shining example of the power parlia- hashtag #PreventProsecuteParalyze and future leaders. Much of what they pro- mentarians around the world can have in an online petition being used as mediums vide includes anti-corruption training their countries and sends a clear message to spread both the danger grand corrup- and networking. Though a relatively new that corruption can be defeated,” says tion poses, as well as the steps proposed program (IACA was officially recog- GOPAC chair Ricardo Garcia. by GOPAC to combat it. Additionally, nized as an international organization in “We honour Mr. Ashal and encourage GOPAC has advocated for the UN to es- March 2011) the group already has a con- others to learn from his dedication and to tablish an international court on corrup- stituency of 71 UN member states, and integrate values of integrity, accountabil- tion, for the prosecution of perpetrators three intergovernmental organizations. ity, collaboration and diversity in their and collaborators of grand corruption. Although the two groups have col- work.” “Grand corruption affects more people laborated in the past (they have a memo- A committee that reviewed nomina- than any other type, and unfortunately randum of understanding and members tions selected Ashal as a candidate for those committing the crimes are those have participated at one another’s events), the award. The executive committee of who have the power and the tools to hide they claim the first annual anti-corrup- GOPAC’s board of directors ultimately and not be prosecuted,” she adds. “That tion award represents an exciting step made the final decision. Ashal was for- has to change.” forward in the fight against corruption. mally recognized at GOPAC’s global Whatever the solution may be, Paquet The award conference in July 2015 in Jakarta, Indo- emphasizes that it will not happen over- “The award is a way not only of recog- nesia. night. However, the inaugural anti-cor- nizing what our members are doing, but As the winner, Ashal was granted in- ruption award and the partnership with also to encourage others to take on simi- clusion at IACA’s annual summer acad- the IACA represents a step forward in lar work,” emphasizes Paquet. “Many emy, an intensive 10-day education op- making public the work that legislators parliamentarians don’t know that there portunity in Austria that analyzes global do worldwide to achieve transparent, ac- are other people out there doing this trends and teaches participants skills and countable and inclusive government, kind of work, and it can sometimes be strategies for identifying and opposing while encouraging others to do the same.

Page 24 Beyond the Hill • Spring 2016 Beyond the Hill • Spring 2016 Page 25 ELECTION MONITORING Election Observation in Haiti Former Parliamentarians travel to Haiti to observe tumultuous election By Hayley Chazan

aiti, the poorest country in the Americas, has struggled for Hdecades to build a stable de- mocracy, and if recent events are any indication, things are not likely to get easier anytime soon. On Jan. 22, the Haitian government postponed a run-off presidential elec- tion scheduled to take place just two days later, due to escalating violence, which included the burning of several election offices. During the first round of elections, which took place three months earlier on Oct. 25, none of the 56 presidential candidates received a majority mandate. To make matters more complicated, opponents of the government have now alleged that the fall election was plagued with widespread fraud. In order to ensure the October elec- tion was conducted fairly and demo- cratically, ParlAmericas, an independ- ent network of national legislatures of countries in the Americas, launched the Election Observation Mission in Haiti. Six former members of parliament were part of the Canadian delegation and were able to make use of their skills. Carole-Marie Allard, Lise Bourgault, Jean-Pierre Blackburn, Jacques Saada, Mario Silva and Judy Wasylycia-Leis each served as short-term observers, spending a period of nine to 10 days in the country both Former MPs who were part of the Canadian delegation. Photo credit: Judy Wasylycia-Leis. before and after the election. On the ground Judy Wasylycia-Leis, who served as try that they would be responsible for Jean-Pierre. “There was no electricity a NDP MP from between monitoring come election day. Each and no air conditioning and it was very 1997 and 2010, said the trip was an in- pair of observers was in charge of mul- hot.” credible experience. She explained that tiple voting locations. Former Quebec Liberal MP Lise the first three days were spent getting According to Jean-Pierre Blackburn, Bourgault said that not only were the thorough briefings on all aspects of a long-time Progressive Conservative conditions rough, but the voting pro- Haitian life, including politics and the MP and former cabinet minister from cess was extremely complex. Voters had electoral system. According to her, there Jonquière, Quebec, the buildings that to fill out a ballot for president, MP, was a particular emphasis on security served as polling centres were very ru- senator and local representative. concerns. dimentary. “It’s a complex procedure in pretty Following the briefings, the MPs “Most of the voting centres were difficult circumstances and it’s easy to were dispatched in pairs, along with a school classrooms, but were very basic, make a mistake or feel intimidated,” driver, to various regions of the coun- containing cement and dirt floors,” said said Lise.

Page 26 Beyond the Hill • Spring 2016 Beyond the Hill • Spring 2016 Page 27 ELECTION MONITORING

Haitians waiting in line to vote. Photo credit: Judy Wasylycia-Leis.

Voting by candlelight. Photo credit: Judy Wasylycia-Leis. At a polling station with Judy Wasylycia-Leis’ interpreter, Syndie Desir. Photo credit: Judy Wasylycia-Leis.

Page 26 Beyond the Hill • Spring 2016 Beyond the Hill • Spring 2016 Page 27 ELECTION MONITORING

“No fraud during election but still loopholes in system.” Throughout the October election day, the former parliamentarians were required to observe different aspects of the voting process. This included: whether or not the polls opened and closed on time, the security, incidents of violence, and the representation of women in line. “Everything we observed, we record- ed,” said Judy. Jean-Pierre said despite the rough en- vironment, there was always a steady line outside the polling centres in his region and turnout was nearly 30 per cent— almost double that of a previous election in August. He also said the lo- cal police were vigilant and as a result, he didn’t observe any violence. In the days following the election, ob- servers worked tirelessly to report every- thing they had witnessed. This culmi- nated in a final report that was delivered Judy Wasylycia-Leis and Charles Messier outside of the district election bureau where the bal- by the organization. lots are delivered and then sent by helicopter to the vote tabulation centre. Photo credit: Judy “From what we witnessed, there Wasylycia-Leis. was no fraud during the actual voting process,” said Jean-Pierre. He did note however that once all the ballots were counted locally, they were sent to a cen- tral returning office that was not moni- tored by the observers. While none of the observers are aware of the exact details of the recent fraud allegations, Lise said that she finds the situation discouraging. “Everybody is trying to do their best in an impossible situation,” she said. Despite the current instability in Haiti, Jean-Pierre is optimistic that democracy will ultimately prevail, in the country that was devastated by an earthquake in 2010. He said the next steps are for Haiti’s election body to launch an investigation into the recent allegations. While the run-off election has not yet been scheduled, Jean-Pierre said he is prepared to return to Haiti with the Canadian delegation, if asked. “It’s imperative for Haitian democ- racy that the election happens without Judy Wasylycia-Leis and Charles Messier enter their report from a polling station. Photo credit: fraud, that’s why we go on these mis- Judy Wasylycia-Leis. sions in the first place,” he said.

Page 28 Beyond the Hill • Spring 2016 Beyond the Hill • Spring 2016 Page 29 ELECTION MONITORING

Lise Bourgault (foreground) and other former parliamentarians from Quebec share their thoughts around the table. Photo credit: Lise Bourgault.

Jean-Pierre Blackburn’s identity card. Parl Americas is the um- Short and long-term observers on Judy Wasylycia-Leis’ team. Photo credit: brella organization that arranged the election monitoring. Photo Judy Wasylycia-Leis. credit: Jean-Pierre Blackburn.

Jean-Pierre Blackburn speaking at a press conference. Photo credit: Jean-Pierre Blackburn.

Page 28 Beyond the Hill • Spring 2016 Beyond the Hill • Spring 2016 Page 29 HOW IT WORKS

The One True Religion By Hon. John Reid

Hon. John Reid.

eligion is the opium of Taking a lens to religion the people” is one of the and money “R most frequently para- If you look at definitions of religion, phrased remarks of German philoso- one can see certain common threads. pher and economist Karl Marx, the Harari asserts that religion is a system author of the holy book of Commu- of human norms and values that are nism, Das Kapatal. The actual quote, based on belief in a superhuman or- however, is quite different: “Religion der. It is not the culmination of hu- is the sigh of the oppressed creature, man impulses or agreements. Based the heart of a heartless world, and the on this superhuman order, a religion spirit of a spiritless situation. It is the creates norms and values that it con- opium of the people.” Over time, it siders compulsory. It must promote a has been reduced to the quote above. worldwide superhuman order that is I have been reading a new book en- true, always and everywhere. Second- titled Sapiens: A Brief History of Hu- ly, much like missionaries, it must de- mankind by Yuval Noah Harari. It ex- mand on spreading this faith to every- amines how Homo sapiens became the one. One of those religions is money. dominant creature on planet Earth. Harari states that money is the most His analysis argues that language was universal and most efficient system of most important in this development, mutual trust ever devised. The first but it was social cooperation made very successful gold currency was Ro- possible by language that was crucial man; they were an accepted medium in enabling large groups of people to of exchange in India even though live and work together; to create cities there were no Roman legions nearby. and empires, but most of all, to cre- Over time, money became identi- ate trust between individuals. And so fied with gold and silver, formed into today, as in the past, the most impor- coins, stamped with the face or symbol tant use of language is gossip - chat mankind changed. His first example is of some ruler. The system grew even about others. Social cooperation is the the corporation. It is defined in most though peoples believed in different key to any human culture. Depend- country’s laws as a “legal fiction”; it gods or came from different cultures. able information about who could be simply exists because we imagine it. All believed in gold and silver coins. trusted meant small bands could grow Large numbers of individuals can co- Today, we believe in coins and pa- into larger bands and develop tighter operate together by believing in com- per currencies but really in electronic and more complex types of coopera- mon myths. He writes that, large scale blips, since that is what our money is tion. Even today, the vast majority of human actions – medieval churches, now. He asserts that money is the only human communication, whether in modern states, modern corporations human trust system that can cross cul- the form of email, phone calls, texts, – are rooted in common myths that tural gaps, and does not discriminate newspapers or TV items, is gossip. exist only in people’s collective imagi- on the basis of religion, gender, race, Besides the invention of language, nation. One of his examples is religion age or sexual orientation. Even people Harari credits the development of and his interpretation of the greatest who do not know each other can co- artificial constructs as a way that hu- and most successful religion of all. operate on the basis of money.

Page 30 Beyond the Hill • Spring 2016 Beyond the Hill • Spring 2016 Page 31 HOW IT WORKS

Yuval Noah Harari. Photo by Richard Stanton.

Money has immense powers. Ha- tures that support it and in the endless more wealth than the other 99 per rari states that it has universal convert- desire to own and control it. It has be- cent combined. ibility - with money in hand, you can come the symbol of greed. But greed The international organization convert land into loyalty, justice into for whatever was and is valuable has claims the wealth of the poorest 50 health and violence into knowledge. always been with us. per cent dropped by 41 per cent be- It provides widespread trust, because An example of this tendency could tween 2010 and 2015, despite an in- with money as a go-between, any two be found in a recent report by Oxfam crease in the global population of 400 (or more) can collaborate on any mat- entitled An Economy for the 1%, that million. At the same time, the wealth ter. documented the vast and growing gap of the richest 62 people increased by Money is a man-made religion and between rich and poor. According to $500 billion to $1.76 trillion. Most like other religions money has darker their research, the 62 richest billion- religions promise a happy existence in sides. Harari writes that while it estab- aires own as much wealth as the poor- the afterlife; but money promises it all lishes universal trust between stran- est half of the world’s population. The in the here and now. gers, this confidence is not invested in report’s authors conclude that urgent Hon. John Reid served as a Liberal MP from humans, communities or sacred val- action must be taken to address the 1965-1984 for the riding of Kenora-Rainy ues, but in money itself, in the struc- fact that one per cent of people own River.

Page 30 Beyond the Hill • Spring 2016 Beyond the Hill • Spring 2016 Page 31 IT SEEMS TO ME

The road to righteousness By Dorothy Dobbie

Dorothy Dobbie

he fact that a wealthy country Why not? like Canada can help a few thou- Presumably, their answer was based Tsand refugees is a good thing on the reality that governments and and something of which we can be priorities change. But for matters of proud. But it defies logic that the same this magnitude of importance, this is country tolerates homelessness and not an acceptable answer. How can children living in Third World condi- questions of simple humanity not be a tions on reserves – or that we have re- priority? Every party says they are. So serves at all, for that matter. why can we not find enough political How can we be so hypocritical as consensus to make a long-term collabo- to applaud action on the foreign front rative plan to resolve these issues? while ignoring needs on our own door- Task force steps? Why are our priorities not with Here’s a suggestion: in the spirit of our own people? Why have we allowed sensible leadership, we could agree to their poverty and destitution to persist Private sector organization try to empower a results-oriented task force here at home? pick up some of the load, but their work to tackle the Indian Act, Aboriginal These questions plague me. Is our only touches the surface and some reli- poverty and the conditions on and off callousness towards our own people gion-based organizations draw the line reserves, including missing Aboriginal rooted in racism and elitism? Do we at helping those who are intoxicated or women. This time, we would involve not see or do we just not care that our have addictions. the “stakeholders” (Aboriginal people), society has turned its collective back on Aboriginal people as well as political representatives from these people? There have been many more com- all affected levels of government. Our lack of action is not politically missions, studies, parliamentary com- We could agree to tackle homeless- based. All parties, in all jurisdictions, mittees and endless reports about the ness in the same way. have failed to resolve or seriously tackle issues facing our Aboriginal Peoples; The parties would have to set aside these issues. However, all have, from including the conditions for children jurisdictional disputes and agree to time to time, thrown a bag of pennies both on and off reserves, the many models of funding and sustainability. that way to dampen any enthusiasm for missing women, the inadequate hous- Not Pollyanna finding long-term solutions. ing, the lack of clean water. All these I can see the eyes rolling, as this is The homeless reports end up gathering dust in the read. What planet does that Pollyanna Responsibility for our homeless has archives. live on? But just think, if we really been shuffled off to cities. Hundreds When I was first appointed Parlia- cared about these issues, if they were and sometimes thousands of unfortu- mentary Secretary to the Minister of true priorities, we could find the solu- nate people wander our streets while Indian and Northern Affairs, I read tions. we avert out eyes and pretend they everything I could to prepare myself It seems to me that if we want to be don`t exist. There have been numerous for the job, including the Indian Act. able to hold our heads up out there in studies and reports – we even count the Reading it made me so angry I could the rest of the world as a compassion- homeless like we do birds – but there hardly wait for my departmental brief- ate, kinder and gentler nation led by a is very little real resolution to provide ing. I was burning with one question: new leader who is one of “sunny ways”, solutions. “What’s the long-term plan to get rid then we’d better hop to it and make Yet, it is do-able. Medicine Hat re- of this pernicious document and start something happen. cently announced that it has essentially treating our Aboriginal people with Otherwise, no matter how many ref- ended homelessness in their city. respect?” ugees we rescue, we will be seen as the Sadly, cities receive only eight cents The departmental staff looked at me hypocrites we have so far been proven of every tax dollar, even though they in consternation and then gently ex- to be. bear the greatest burden for looking plained, as to an idiot, “We don’t make Dorothy Dobbie was the Progressive Conserva- after individuals. long-term plans here, Madam Dobbie.” tive MP for Winnipeg south from 1988 to 1993.

Page 32 Beyond the Hill • Spring 2016 Beyond the Hill • Spring 2016 Page 33 TEachers Teachers Institute on Canadian Parliamentary Democracy By Harrison Lowman

The Speaker of the Senate addresses Teachers Institute participants in the Senate Chamber. Photo Credit: Parliament of Canada.

Participants engage in a committee simulation. Photo Credit: Parlia- In small groups, participants share ideas and resources with other educa- ment of Canada. tors from across the country. Photo Credit: Parliament of Canada.

ach fall, the Teachers Institute Speaker of the Senate and the Speaker ued at $500 each, for teachers across on Canadian Parliamentary of the House. The program aims to Canada who would be unable to at- EDemocracy brings together ap- provide a unique immersive opportu- tend without financial assistance. The proximately 70 educators from across nity to educators teaching governance bursaries allow these educators to par- Canada, for an intensive and informa- and citizenship. Following the event, ticipate in the program. Our bursaries tive week on Parliament Hill run by teachers are able to take invaluable are named after two deceased former experts. knowledge as well as physical resources parliamentarians: Jack Ellis and Benoît The Institute was launched in 1996 back to their classrooms to share with Sauvageau. and is coordinated by the Library of their students. Due to the recent election, this year, Parliament and supported by both the CAFP provides 10 bursaries, val- the week fell on February 21 to 26.

Page 32 Beyond the Hill • Spring 2016 Beyond the Hill • Spring 2016 Page 33 WHERE ARE THEY NOW? Staying in touch By Hayley Chazan, Scott Hitchcox and Harrison Lowman

The Hon. Yoine Goldstein (Liberal Senator, 2005-2009) Q: How did you end up getting in- terested in politics? I was never terribly interested in poli- tics, to be honest with you. I supported the Liberal Party sporadically. I became interested actually in a weird sort of way, because I was engaged by the Sen- ate Committee on Banking, Trade and Commerce to help it create a report on bankruptcy and insolvency, which is my specialty. It’s the area in which I practice law. When I saw the kind of work that was being done, I became sort of interested in helping. And then my wife told me, “Look, if you want to do something at least give something back to Canada. Look at what Canada has given you.” And I said, “That’s fair enough, I should.” So I took a significant cut in income and served for four and a half years. Hon. Yoine Goldstein. Photo by Harrison Roland Comtois. Photo by Harrison Lowman. My wife Elaine came and stayed here Lowman. and then became the chairperson of the Liberal Spouses Association, for Liberal partners past and present. We called it, bankruptcy report in the 2000s. It was you take part in today? “The Club”. called “Debtors and Creditors Sharing I’m practicing law full-time. Elaine is Q: What was the transition like the Burden”. There was an inquiry on a practising grandmother full-time. We moving from Montreal to Ottawa? the use of credit cards and the occasion- have a new grandchild in Washington. Certainly no problem because I be- al abuse by credit card companies who We visit him quite frequently. Eventu- came accustomed to being in that really were unable to identify abuses ally he will recognize us. chamber and being before the com- and be responsive to them in an effec- mittee well before I was named. I was tive kind of way. There were certain Roland Comtois a very active practitioner before I got limits that were imposed, as a result of (Liberal MP, 1965-1976, here, and I decided I was going to be a the Senate inquiry. After I left the Sen- 1977-1984, recipient of the 2005 senator full-time. ate, legislation on money laundering Distinguished Service Award) Q: What was it like leaving the was also changed as a result of an in- Q: What made you interested in Senate? quiry that we did. politics? Transitioning back into practice was Q: How do the committees of the By accident. I first ran in provincial a lot more difficult than the transition Senate and the House of Commons politics because I was the co-founder of from practice into the Senate. differ? a hospital. A member of the National I enjoyed being in the Senate. I en- The committees in the House of Assembly of Quebec at the time did not joyed the company of some very bril- Commons have become, for the past want the hospital to be in Repentigny. liant people there. I enjoyed the quality number of years, extremely partisan He wanted it to be in L’Assomption. So of the work that was done in commit- and they get very little work done. The I said, “We’re going to get rid of him!” tee and the reports that came out of the Senate has fortunately been spared that I ran for the nomination and lost. But I committees; some of which that were partisanship in committee. It’s partisan supported the candidate that was elect- quite earth-shattering for Canada. on the floor of the chamber, but it’s ed. Q: Any work you are particularly not terribly partisan in the committee; So after that, since I campaigned for proud of? which is where most of the work has the provincial election, when the federal The report I loved most was the re- been done for decades and decades. election came, everyone said, “Well you port I was very involved with – the Q: What are some of the activities should run federally.” I ran federally in

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“The committees in the House of Commons have become, for the past number of years, extremely partisan and they get very little work done.” – Hon. Yoine Goldstein 1962 and was defeated. I ran again in asked to oversee operations at the To- 1963 and was defeated again. I ran in ronto Symphony Orchestra for a year. I 1965, and at the last minute the incum- then worked for both Hudson Bay and bent resigned because he was caught in Ford Motor Company in a restructur- a scandal. So I was elected in 1965 in ing role. Joliette-l’Assomption-Montcalm. On In 2004, I decided to move back to the night of the election I was the last Ottawa and accepted the role of over- call on television in Canada! During seeing and organizing the weekly Par- the night the riding changed sides seven liamentary Prayer Breakfast and annual times. National Prayer Breakfast that is held on Q: What did you enjoy most about Parliament Hill. The Prayer Breakfast is federal politics? also connected to other prayer break- I convinced Trudeau to raise the sal- fasts that are held in various cities across ary and pension of members. I had a big Canada. say in the establishment of the new air- I have also become involved with the port around Montreal- Mirabel Interna- Ottawa Mission, a homeless shelter in tional Airport. I had a role to play in the Ottawa that feeds 1,300 people a day. change in the communication system. The Mission has a staff of 110, drug and In my riding, to connect, people had alcohol programs, a dental clinic, health to use four different area codes. People clinic and the shelter sleeps nearly 300 often had to call long distance. So with people a night. In the past, I have been the help of one of my friends at Bell President of that organization, and also Canada, we changed all that, and we Executive Director for six months. established a regional area code. This Hon. . Provided photo. Recently I have been asked to become soon applied everywhere in Canada. the national coordinator for Christian Q: What do you think about poli- My wife passed away last year, but Meditation in Canada. Presently there tics in Quebec today? life goes on. And I manage quite well. are 300 meditation groups across the It’s a mess. But, the next time around I have four kids, two daughters and country. people will have to choose between two sons that look after me. One of my Q: Because of your busy schedule Quebec and Canada. I’m sure they will daughters lives in Ottawa so it is easy are there any leisure activities that choose Canada. Not because I despise for me to visit. you have picked up? Péladeau, but people want to stay in Besides that, I do some cooking be- Well I’m a runner. I have run 40 Canada. I’m sure of that. When you cause I am a good cook. I make a lot of marathons since the mid 1980s. I run have a good thing, you don’t get rid of soups, boeuf bourguignon, pasta with four days a week, and I’m fortunate that it. lobster. I can cook anything I want. my knees and my hips are still fine. I do Q: What was it like when your po- some cross-country skiing, but running litical career drew to a close? The Hon. Jack Murta is my major activity, my first love when I was there for 20 years and after that (Progressive Conservative MP, it comes to a sports activity. I said, “Well 20 years, maybe that was 1970-1988) Q: Do you retain any connections too long.” Because I was an engineer, I Q: So what have you been up to still with your constituency? would have to go back to university to since your time in Parliament? No, not really. I have a sister in Ed- practice again. I said, “No, I’m going to I have done a number of things. I monton and, of course, many friends be a project manager to many things.” went back to Manitoba right after I in Winnipeg. We sold our farming op- So that’s what I did for many years, be- retired in 1988 and for six years was a eration that was located just outside of fore I retired because of the sickness of commissioner for the Canadian Grain Winnipeg in 1996. I’m from a small my wife. Commission, a federal government town in Manitoba so I still try to get Q: What is it like for you when you regulatory agency that provides weigh- back “home” once or twice a year. I still return to the House? ing and grading of Canadian grain sold have a passion for farming and agricul- Oh, good memories and I see old around the world. In 1996, I moved to ture. friends. It makes me younger. Life af- Ontario and ran an agricultural compa- Q: How does life post-Parliament ter Parliament is not that bad you know, ny that had farm land in Latvia, Lithua- compare to life on the Hill? once you know what to do. nia, Alberta and Ontario. It also owned I think the most important part of my Q: What have you been up to lately? the Peele Island Winery. In 2001, I was life has been after Parliament and after

Page 34 Beyond the Hill • Spring 2016 Beyond the Hill • Spring 2016 Page 35 WHERE ARE THEY NOW?

“I think the most important part of my life has been after Parliament and after politics. This has largely been in the last 12 years since moving back to Ottawa. I love non partisan politics and what I do now allows me to meet with MPs from all parties on Parliament Hill in a non-partisan way.” – Jack Murta politics. This has largely been in the last female Leader of the Official Opposi- 12 years since moving back to Ottawa. I tion? love non-partisan politics and what I do It was very interesting. I’m one of now allows me to meet with MPs from those people that never had a hankering all parties on Parliament Hill in a non- for the top job. I’m very much a team partisan way. The Prayer Breakfast is all player. At that time, we had just become about building relationships between the Canadian Alliance, so I served as in- people. It’s about MPs getting to know terim leader just for six months before each other in a more personal and not Stockwell Day came in. It was a terrific just a political way. The ultimate hope opportunity. Because we were in a lead- is that it helps build a better and more Hon. Deborah Grey and husband Lew with ership race, my biggest job was to make understanding parliamentarian and ul- their bikes. Provided photo. sure that the caucus held together. timately a more effective democracy. Q. What advice would you give to The Ottawa Mission has helped me “Who is this?” , the current interim work in a meaningful way with those Starting in 2013, I served on the Se- leader of Conservatives, who are now less fortunate and this has introduced curity Intelligence Review Committee, the Official Opposition? greater compassion into my life. the group that reviews CSIS to make Keep cheerful, get some sleep and If I look back on my life, the last 12 sure they’re following the law. I did that keep building the team. She’s doing a years has been the most fruitful, the for two years and it was a great experi- great job already and I have no doubt most rewarding of my entire life. ence. I worked with a terrific group of that she will keep doing it. I met Rona people and I learned a lot. I just finished when she was running for the first time Hon. Deborah Grey that this spring. and it was just so great because she (Reform MP, 1989-2000; Canadian A little while ago, I got a call from asked me if I would come speak at one Alliance MP, 2001-2001, 2002- a young woman I used to babysit, who of her breakfasts. Of course, I happily 2003; Democratic Representative works for Immigration Canada. They accepted the invitation. I just remember Caucus, 2001-2002; Conservative were doing citizenship ceremonies in how nervous she was; she didn’t know MP, 2003-2004) Nanaimo, and they didn’t have a citi- what to say or how to say it. I just gave Q. What have you been up to since zenship judge, so they were looking for her a big hug and said, “Rona, you will your time as a Member of Parlia- an Order of Canada recipient to per- do great, just speak from your heart.” ment? form the service. I was asked if I would She made a great speech that day and Well I’ve been out over 11 years al- be willing to help out. It was such an now here she is. She’s been a senior cabi- ready. I left in the June 2004 election honour. It was so exciting to swear in net minister and now she’s the leader of by choice after I had been there for 15 new Canadians. the Official Opposition. and a half years. I had a great run. I did Q. Are you still riding your motor- Q. What do you miss most about four terms. It was a wonderful time and cycle? What do you like most about politics? I just loved it. riding? Meeting new people. I love doing that Since then, I’ve been doing some Yes, I am. I’ve been riding now for all the time. Another thing I miss is be- speaking with the National Speakers 48 years. My husband, Lew, and I ride ing an advocate and helping people. If Bureau and I was blessed to receive the matching Honda Valkyries. I just love ever my constituents had a problem and Order of Canada in 2007. I remember the smell of the outdoors and feeling didn’t know where to turn, I was always getting a call from the Governor Gen- the air in my face. One of the top five available to lend a hand. I also miss my eral’s office when I was at Tim- Hor motorcycle routes in Canada is across friends in Ottawa. I still know people tons with a friend having coffee. I just Vancouver Island to Tofino. It’s about there who are security guards and I just thought it was one of my pals from Par- two and a half hours from our house love visiting with everybody. When I do liament Hill joking around, but then and it’s one of the windiest roads in go back to Ottawa, which isn’t so often the woman on the phone confirmed Canada. It’s just gorgeous. We love now, I just love going out and wander- that my name had been put forward riding there. There are some beautiful ing around on the Hill or to the coffee and asked if I would accept the appoint- spots on the Island. shops, just saying hi to people. I’m as- ment. I just started to laugh and said, Q. What was it like to be the first tounded that people still recognize me

Page 36 Beyond the Hill • Spring 2016 Beyond the Hill • Spring 2016 Page 37 WHERE ARE THEY NOW?

“I think most MPs have the naivety that somehow they are indis- pensable to the political system and someday they will return.” – Alex Shepherd remember any of this, but it was impor- tant to me. I also worked hard to allevi- ate the excessive burden placed on Ca- nadians who earned social security from the U.S. at the time, a form of double taxation. I believe that because of my input this eventually got reversed, al- though the IRS has become even more intrusive in the lives of everyday Cana- dians since then. As for lessons, I think most MPs have the naivety that somehow they are in- dispensable to the political system and someday they will return. I think this has something to do with the energy that happens on the Hill. When I was first on the Hill, one of the senior members said to me, “No one person can make a big difference here.” That is somewhat true, although I would exempt the PMO. My back- ground was economics and business Alex Shepherd and wife Carol. Provided photo. and I took great lengths to assist then Finance Minister at the on the street. I’ve been extremely bless- the presidency. My tour guide, a former time. There were many in our caucus ed and I don’t regret one minute of my monk who had taken part in protests in who just didn’t understand the severity time in the House. Thailand, told me that advocating for of our economic problems back in the the National League for Democracy early 1990s. Mr. Martin later honoured Alex Shepherd would probably get me thrown out of my contributions in a video. Of course, (Liberal MP, 1993-2004) any government building. Of course, I am more delighted that we got our fis- Q: What have you been up to since we gave the party some support anyway cal situation under control. your time on the Hill? and the results were great. Q: Any particular reason you chose I hate the word retirement because it As a former chartered accountant, I to leave the world of Canadian poli- makes people think of someone sitting still do some accounting and tax prepa- tics? on a porch in a rocking chair (although ration work but only for family and not I did not run in the 2004 election, af- I do have a porch and a rocking chair!). for remuneration. I took up the hobby ter successfully completing three terms, My wife, Carol and I have an island in of woodturning, which I have found from 1993 to 2004, never having been Muskoka where we spend our summers, to be very fulfilling because it is some- defeated. and during my last years as a member thing you can do by yourself while Looking back, I decided not to of- I bought property in Costa Rica where learning things about different types fer my name again in 2004 for a few we spend our winter months. We still of wood, such as tropical hardwood in reasons. Firstly, my hearing was quickly live in Durham and, yes, could not help Costa Rica. eroding. Many of my colleagues can but get involved in the last election. Q: What are some of your last- tell you all kinds of stories about this; We are great travellers and in the ing lessons and accomplishments ac- such as the time the RCMP singled me fall of 2015 we ventured to Myanmar. quired from your time as an MP? out in the caucus meeting because they It was odd, coming from Canada just I amended various pieces of legisla- thought I was transmitting signals out before the election (after we voted), to tion, especially for the Business Devel- of the room. Turns out my hearing aid see that Myanmar was having one of opment Bank of Canada, which acts as a FM system can do just that. It was a its first truly democratic elections with lender to small businesses that may have very funny story when that was finally no signs, no TV adverts. We soon dis- trouble getting traditional bank financ- discovered, but at the time, the caucus covered that support for the opposition ing. These banks are set up around the chair thought we were being spied on. politician Aung San Suu Kyi was ille- country, and I think the amendments Since then I have had a cochlear im- gal, as she had married and had children I advocated for made it smoother for plant, and my hearing is fairly good, with a foreign national and this suppos- small businesses to comply with the thanks to our universal medical system, edly constitutionally barred her from bank’s requirements. Most people won’t I would like to point out!

Page 36 Beyond the Hill • Spring 2016 Beyond the Hill • Spring 2016 Page 37 FROM THE BOOKSHELF

Tambora: Proving abrupt climate change By Hon. Peter Adams

Tambora: The Eruption That demonstrate the worldwide effects of tragedy of a geophysical event. He ar- Changed the World. By Gillen this eruption, including dramatic sun- gues that these times in Ireland were D’Arcy Wood. Princeton University sets in Toronto. as devastating as the potato famines of Press, United States. April 27, 2014. Sixty-eight years previously, not the 1840s. 312 pages. ISBN 978-06911543. far from Krakatoa, Mount Tambora The author links abrupt climatic erupted, letting out its own volcanic changes to the spread of disease, spe- arliaments have been debating plume of sulfur aerosols and ash. In cifically the cholera pandemic. This ex- climate change for decades. A the year 1815, communications had perience, the author argues, influenced Pconsensus is now building that not reached a global scale. It was not thinking about climate, public hygiene something is happening to the globe’s until the analysis of glacier ice cores and the role of government in public climate. There seems to be a gen- in the 20th century, that the full scale health. eral warming accompanied by some of the Tambora eruption became North American consequences startling changes in weather patterns clear. Its effects were far vaster than The chapter on Tambora and North around the world. People take comfort its cousin, Krakatoa. For three years, America is a thoroughly good read. in the fact that the changes appear to the entire world faced extraordinary The continent’s east coast was most ef- be relatively gradual, ignoring those weather, including harvest-destroying fected by the summerless years, which who point out that abrupt changes can frost, drought and flooding rains, and ravaged subsistence agriculture in plac- even occur overnight. the strange behavior of ice. Many de- es like New England. The failed har- This book is about a singular event scribed it as the “Year without a Sum- vests stimulated the shift of population so influential that it changed the cli- mer”. In New England, 1816 became into the West, which was less hard hit. mate of the entire planet just over 200 known as “Eighteen-Hundred-and- Before Tambora, the thinking of years ago. All it took was a volcanic Froze-to-Death”. Germans referred to Ben Franklin and others with respect eruption. 1817 as “The Year of the Beggar”. to human-engineered climate change, The author argues the effect of Ripple effects was that the clearing of the forest and this Indonesian eruption also forever The book draws not only on the sci- the spread of agriculture would im- changed how people understood cli- ence and observations of the day but prove (warm) the continental climate, mate change, the roles of the poles, the also on literature, including poetry benefiting Americans. The Tambora Ice Age (a phrase coined during the and other arts. In describing the hor- years stimulated thinking about the period) and links between climate and rors of the Tambora-induced famine in real controls of climate and humans epidemic disease. From the outset, au- China, Wood uses the observations of complex interactions with it. thor Gillen D’Arcy Wood stresses that European travellers, the records of the Cooling effects to have truly global effects, a volcano ancient Chinese meteorological ser- Similar to how present-day actions must be explosive enough to punch its vice and poetry of the day. He focuses are affecting atmospheric and ocean ash and dust up into the stratosphere, on the province of Yunnan, then the circulation to produce bizarre weath- and also be located in the tropics. food basket of China, where millions er patterns and cold regions amid the Magma memoirs starved. After the total failure of the general warming of the globe, the The most famous of the tropical vol- rice harvest, the region changed crops Tambora eruption also contributed to canic eruptions is Krakatoa, now an is- to become a major producer of opium. general cooling. Wood explains how land located in Indonesia. It erupted in Similarly, in examining the “The the pronounced cooling of the surface 1883. In his book Krakatoa: The Day Other Irish Famine” (1815 and 1816), of the Atlantic Ocean interfered with the World Exploded: August 27, 1883 he cites local weather data, British the conveyor belt of heat to the Arctic (2005), author Simon Winchester was Hansard and the writings of the poet by subsurface currents. Northern wa- able to use telegraph information to John Keats, to bring out the human ters became warmer and more icebergs

Page 38 Beyond the Hill • Spring 2016 Beyond the Hill • Spring 2016 Page 39 FROM THE BOOKSHELF

“This book is about Former MP traces a singular event so Champlain’s visits to influential that it Peterborough and changed the climate the Kawarthas of the entire planet By Hon. Andy Mitchell just over 200 years Finding Champlain’s Dream: Cham- provides numerous perspectives on the ago. All it took was a plain, First Nations and French Cul- life of Samuel de Champlain, but focus- ture in Peterborough and the Ka- es mostly on his visits to the Peterbor- volcanic eruption.” warthas. Edited by Elwood Jones, ough area in the early 17th century. It is Peter Adams and Alan Brunger. wonderfully illustrated with numerous Trent Valley Archives. August, 2015. pictures and many reproduced maps of than normal appeared in the Atlantic. Canada. 96 pages. the time. Similarly, recent, changes in the Atlan- The book has a number of themes tic have helped open up the Northwest inding Champlain’s Dream is a that flow from Champlain’s journey Passage and thin the ice cover of the unique approach to celebrating through the area. This includes an ex- Arctic Ocean. Fthe 400th Anniversary of Cham- amination of the early history of the In 1817, the whaler William Scores- plain’s presence in the Peterborough French in Ontario as well as the Abo- by reported that the Greenland Sea and area. A collection of both previous pub- riginal history of the area, more broad- beyond was free of ice (no whales for lications and original works, it provides ly, the early relationship between First him!). This news reached Britain just the reader with a number of different Nations and European settlers. at the time when the Royal Navy was perspectives about Champlain’s two As a local resident, I was particularly downsizing at the end of the Napoleon- journeys through Peterborough and fascinated by the various essays, which ic Wars. There was a surge of renewed The Kawarthas in 1615. examined Champlain’s legacy in the interest around the Northwest Passage The commemoration project was area. This included the connection with as a route to the East. The Ross/Bu- spearheaded by the Trent Valley Ar- Trent University, the Battle of Nogoji- chan expeditions of 1818 were the first chives, which has, since 1989, pro- wanong and the Champlain research of scores of Royal Navy efforts, up to moted the preservation, identification undertaken by the late Leslie Frost. In and beyond the Franklin Expedition of and care of archives in the Trent Val- doing so, this former premier of On- the 1840s. Alas for them, by 1818, the ley region. It currently houses about tario added his perspective on the pos- Tambora effect had ended as abruptly 1,000 cubic feet of documents relating sible route the explorer may have taken as it had begun and the Northwest to people, events and places connected through the area. Passage was again filled with ice. It had with the Trent Valley. Located in the The book also contains a unique sec- taken three years for the volcanic ash to township of Selwyn, the archives do a tion that describes the various historical be washed out of the atmosphere. The tremendous job of preserving Peterbor- markers in Ontario and New York that glimpse of an ice-free Passage in 1817 ough and Peterborough County’s his- recognize the travels of Champlain. By and the possibility of an ice-free Arctic tory. themselves, they provide a unique nar- Ocean were catalysts of 19th century The project was led in part by our rative on the legacy that Champlain left Arctic exploration in Canada. former colleague Peter Adams, who in the area. In Tambora: The Eruption That served both in the Ontario Legislature In addition to being a fitting 400th Changed the World, author Gillen from 1987 to 1990 and as the federal anniversary tribute to Champlain’s D’Arcy Wood makes the important member of parliament from 1993 to journey through the area, Finding point that current global warming is his retirement in 2006. In this project, Champlain’s Dream is an entertaining not limited by the length of time that a Peter has drawn on his expertise as an and informative collection of essays, volcano’s output can stay in the atmos- academic in the geography department which will both fascinate and inform phere. He says his book is a “cautionary and coordinator of the northern studies the reader. tale.” He adds, “If a three-year climate and research program at Trent Univer- As an area resident, I am thankful to change event in the early 1800s was ca- sity in Peterborough, where he is now a professors Adams and Brunger, along pable of such destruction and of shap- professor emeritus. with archivist Jones for researching and ing human affairs to the extent that I Peter was joined in the project by his publishing such a unique perspective have described in this book, then the academic colleague Alan Brunger, also on a piece of local history that is also an future impacts of multi-decadal climate from Trent University and by Elwood important part of our national heritage. change must be truly off the chart.” H. Jones, archivist at the Trent Valley The Hon. Andy Mitchell was a Liberal MP for Hon. Peter Adams served as the Liberal MP for Archives. the riding of Parry Sound-Muskoka from 1993 Peterborough from 1993-2006. The book is a fascinating read and to 2006. He also serves as CAFP’s President.

Page 38 Beyond the Hill • Spring 2016 Beyond the Hill • Spring 2016 Page 39 FROM THE BOOKSHELF A delicious read A look inside the culinary life and times of Sir John A. MacDonald By Hayley Chazan

Sir John’s Table: The Culinary Life Mechefske is not shy about discussing and Times of Canada’s First Prime Victoria Sandwiches Recipe the darker parts of MacDonald’s life, in- Minister. By Lindy Mechefske. Goose Ingredients: 4 eggs; their weight cluding the infamous alcoholism that has Lane Editions. September 1, 2015. in pounded sugar, butter and flour; been said to have held him back, in spite Canada. 232 pages. ISBN 978-0- ¼ spoonful of salt, a layer of any of all he accomplished. Apparently Mac- 86492-881. kind of jam or marmalade. Donald was particularly fond of wine, Mode: Beat the butter to a cream; which was unusual at the time. ir John’s Table: The Culinary Life dredge in the flour and pounded His indulgence didn’t stop with alco- and Times of Canada’s First prime sugar; stir these ingredients well hol. Particularly later in life, he was fond Sminister is three parts biography, together, and add the eggs, which of extravagant feasts, including sugary two parts timeline of Canadian history, should be previously thoroughly desserts. This highfalutin taste was devel- and one part survey of the culinary hab- whisked. oped in England, where he liked to travel its of Canada’s first Scottish settlers. Au- When the mixture has been well to rub shoulders with nobility. thored by Lindy Mechefske, the book is beaten for about 10 minutes, butter One of his favourite recipes he encoun- a unique, albeit abbreviated, perspective a Yorkshire-pudding tin, pour in tered on a voyage to London was the on early life in Canada. the batter, and bake it in a moder- Victorian sandwich. Mechefske provides What makes this work different from ate oven for 20 minutes. Let it cool, this period recipe in her book. It was also the various other books about Sir John spread one half of the cake with a a favoured dish of Queen Victoria. A. MacDonald and early Canadian his- layer of nice preserve, place over it Digestible History tory is that at the end of each chapter, the the other half of the cake, press the Nothing in the book will be particu- author links the story back to food; more pieces slightly together, and then larly groundbreaking for most students specifically, the type of food Sir John A. cut it into long finger-pieces; pile of Canadian history, at least as far as the would have been munching on during them in cross bars on a glass dish, biographical information goes. In fact, the various seasons of his life. Each chap- and serve. there are a number of recent works by ter also includes a recipe taken directly Time: 20 minutes. Average cost, noted Canadian writers that take a more from cookbooks of the 1800s. is 3d. Sufficient for 5 or 6 persons. comprehensive look at our first prime Mechefske focuses each of the book’s Seasonable at any time. minister. pithy 21 chapters on a period in Mac- But in fairness to the author, she is not Donald’s life. Similar to many historical were a result of his diet. Staples from the trying to offer any new facts or interpre- biographers, she uses anecdotes to give period included fresh vegetables, whole tations of history. She is trying to teach readers a taste of the more conspicuous wheat, and the wildest game and fish readers about the culinary styles of Mac- events of each time period, and fills in the available. In contrast to the highly pro- Donald’s lifetime, and in this she rises to blanks with relevant historical facts. cessed, salty food of today, it’s no wonder the occasion. Macdonald probably didn’t that Sir John A. was able to accomplish as In fact, by taking such a unique per- eat McDonald’s much as he did. spective, she is making Canadian history Our first PM’s life was jam-packed, It’s interesting to contrast the eat- just a little bit more accessible to those and fast-paced from the very start. As a ing habits of our earliest statesmen with who may not be as familiar with our young boy, he immigrated with his fam- those of today’s parliamentarians. Even country’s birth. ily on a voyage across the Atlantic to before Confederation, when the seat of If you’re looking for a dense, thorough Quebec City. They then made the long Parliament was in Montreal and Mac- biography of Sir John A. MacDonald’s trek across Quebec, through (what’s now Donald had to make the long trek east life, then this book won’t satisfy your ap- known as) Ottawa, to Kingston where from Kingston by horse-drawn carriage, petite. But it is still worth the read, es- the MacDonald family first settled. he frequently dined on hearty home- pecially if you want some conversational His adult life was no less eventful— he cooked meals in taverns along the way. fodder for your next dinner party. After became a lawyer before even completing Today’s MPs are often forced to eat on all, you can be sure most of your guests his formal legal training, and his political the rubber-chicken circuit, or grab a salty won’t be as well versed in the eating hab- escapades are well known. breakfast sandwich from Tim Hortons in its of Canada’s first prime minister as you Perhaps his vast reserves of energy the course of their duties. will be, having read Sir John’s Table.

Page 40 Beyond the Hill • Spring 2016 Beyond the Hill • Spring 2016 Page 41 POLITICAL PASSAGES Our tribute to those who have passed on By Harrison Lowman

Hon. Stewart McInnes Former Progressive Conservative MP, Hon. Stewart McInnes passed away at his home on October 3, 2015 of heart failure. He was 78 years of age. Stew- art was born to parents Donald and Betty in July of 1937. He was raised in Halifax. During his childhood, he was plagued by polio, which left him in a state of paralysis for six months. Years later, he would describe how much of a “lucky guy” he was to have survived Hon. Stewart McInnes. Moe Mantha. the childhood disease, as well as having beaten prostate cancer later in his life. Stewart attended Ottawa’s Ashbury the Halifax Board of Trade, the Parkin- scribed former Conservative cabinet College, but returned to Nova Scotia to sons Society for the Maritimes, and the minister and Nova Scotia native, Peter gain his undergraduate and law degrees Arbitration and Mediation Institute of MacKay. from Dalhousie University, a university Canada, a board member of the Halifax “It didn’t matter whether you were that would later name him Alumnus of Foundation, the Mayor’s Task Force on a political friend or foe or whether you the Year. In 1962, armed with his de- Drugs, a chief negotiator for the federal were on the other side of a lawsuit or grees, Stewart made his way to the law government on Maritime Aboriginal whether you played on the other team if firm, now known as McInnes Cooper, claims and a trustee of St. Matthews it was hockey,” said longtime friend and which his grandfather founded and Church. He also chaired various not- colleague George Cooper. “Stewart was where his father practiced. He made the for-profits in the Maritime region. your friend.” trip to the Supreme Court of Canada on In the for-profit world he served on “Stewart was a skilled lawyer, compas- two occasions. the boards of businesses such as Canada sionate politician and generous friend,” Twenty-two years later, Stewart en- Post, Keltic Mines and Defence Con- said Nova Scotia PC leader Jamie Baille. tered the world of politics, representing struction Ltd. Stewart also received the “He will be sorely missed.” the constituents of Halifax in the House Queen’s Golden Jubilee Medal and the Stewart leaves his legacy and flowers as a Progressive Conservative MP. He Queen’s Diamond Jubilee Medal. to his loving wife of 30 years, Shirley, eventually became Minister of Supply Stewart was a lifelong athlete. He ex- his kids Donald, Janet, Ted, Sarah, and and Services and then Minister of Pub- celled at squash, hockey, golf and ski- Constance, his five grandchildren and lic Works and Housing. In 1988, hav- ing, was a provincially-ranked tennis various nieces and nephews. ing been defeated, Stewart returned to player, member of the Dalhousie Sports practising law, focussing specifically on Hall of Fame, coached football and was Moe Mantha mediation and arbitration. He turned captain of the Dalhousie Football team. Former Progressive Conservative MP down a Senate appointment twice. He was part of the national executive of Moe Mantha passed away peacefully in According to former Prime Minis- the Olympic Trust of Canada, director his home on September 19, 2015. He ter , Stewart was in the of the Canada Summer Games (1984), was 81 years of age. driver’s seat when it came to helping director of the Pan American Wheel- Moe was born in North Bay and first create the Confederation Bridge (link- chair Games and he chaired the capital dipped his toe into the political waters ing New Brunswick and PEI), the At- campaign for Alta Gymnastics Club. at the municipal level. He served as a lantic Canada Opportunities Agency, When Stewart was not sweating on councillor in Sturgeon Falls, eventually the Atlantic Accord on offshore oil and the sport field, slope, court, or rink, becoming reeve in the Springer Town- gas and the Canada-United States Free he could be found playing bridge, or ship. Moe was specifically remembered Trade Agreement. in his half-hectare garden. Stewart was for his guidance during the West Nip- “He became a very close adviser to renowned especially for his beautiful issing amalgamation. me and a very valued friend,” said Mul- spring tulip bulbs, which numbered In the early eighties Moe tried his roney. over 16,000 and made appearances in hand at federal politics, running as the Among his many titles, Stewart was Canadian magazines. Progressive Conservative candidate in president of the Canadian Bar Asso- “A highly respected and accomplished Nipissing in 1984. He won the election ciation (Nova Scotia), the North Brit- figure, he remained a pivotal member and went on to serve a term in Parlia- ish Society, the Halifax School for the of the Progressive Conservative Party ment. Moe was defeated in 1988. Blind, and the Halifax Club, director of of Nova Scotia until his passing,” de- “When he was our MP he took a real

Page 40 Beyond the Hill • Spring 2016 Beyond the Hill • Spring 2016 Page 41 POLITICAL PASSAGES

hands-on approach,” said friend Brian Lafleche. “He helped the whole area, North Bay and Sturgeon Falls, and he always had time to listen to your con- cerns. Then, he’d look at you and say, ‘I know what has to be done’ and he’d do it.” Looking back at his time in office Moe’s family remembered his com- mitment to constituents, whether that meant never missing a community event or the fact that he drove his car Hon. Robert Coates. Hon. John Harvard. back and forth to Ottawa to save tax- payer’s money. The former parliamentarian loved sports, playing hockey in the AHL, the Tory was not absent during the QHL and the WHL before stepping off Hon. Robert Coates Free Trade election; he could be found the ice in 1970. Moe’s son, Moe Man- Former Nova Scotia Progressive in a small committee advising the tha Jr., played 12 seasons in the NHL Conservative MP Robert Coates prime minister on political strategy. and is currently head coach and general passed away on January 12, 2016, in Prime Minister Mulroney soon ap- manager of the French River Rapids in Halifax after a short period of illness. pointed him to take part in a federal the NOJHL. His grandson Ryan was He was 87 years old. trade tribunal, where he worked for ten drafted by the New York Rangers in Robert was born on March 10, years before retiring and heading back the 2014 NHL Entry Draft. 1928, in Amherst, Nova Scotia. Be- to the Maritimes. Moe was also an avid golfer, having fore getting bitten by the political bug, “Bob and I were very close over the established the Laurentide Golf Course he worked as a lawyer and author. In years,” former premier and Cumber- in Sturgeon Falls. In order to build 1977, he served as Tory party president. land East MLA Roger Bacon said. “He the course, Moe drove a tractor across Six years later, he threw his support be- was very dedicated to the people of his a piece of farmland far away from the hind Brian Mulroney and worked on riding and he had that quality that he center of town. When he broke ground the would-be prime minister’s leader- would work for anyone no matter their there, only a handful of people in Stur- ship campaign. politics. He was very well liked.” geon Falls even knew how to play golf. Robert was elected in 1957, in the Bacon added that Coates taught him The location is now quite successful. riding of Cumberland-Colchester. He to be always conscious of those who he “Moe Mantha was highly respected would remain in the House for the was serving. “One of the most impor- in West Nipissing,” said West Nipissing next 31 years, winning 11 consecutive tant things he taught me was that when Mayor Joanne Savage. “He operated elections. you’re in politics you have to respond the golf course for over 50 years, and While in Parliament, Robert was first to every letter and phone call you get was always happy to assist with fund- a backbencher in the Diefenbaker and as quickly as possible.” raising and sponsor community events. Clark governments. He was known to “As a practicing politician, he had He was always involved in hockey too, vocalize his concerns about his own few peers,” remembered Mulroney. encouraging young people to pursue party. “He was a pro.” their dreams. But he was also a strong Robert contributed to the develop- supporter of the West Nipissing Hos- ment of the Atlantic Canada Oppor- Hon. John Harvard pital. He is going to be missed by a lot tunities Agency, the Confederation Former Manitoba lieutenant-gover- of people.” Bridge linking P.E.I. and New Brun- nor and Liberal MP John Harvard left “He had a big heart and truly be- swick, and Nova Scotia’s offshore min- us on January 9, 2016. He was 77. lieved in giving back to his community eral rights deal. John’s father arrived on Canada’s and country,” described North Bay In 1984, Robert was appointed de- shores in 1903, having left his native Mayor Al McDonald, who purchased fence minister by then Prime Minis- Iceland. John’s mother, whose fam- his first set of golf clubs from Moe. ter Brian Mulroney. While in office, ily was also from Iceland, was born “He was loved, respected and ad- he successfully re-introduced separate in Canada. She gave birth to John in mired by everyone whose lives he uniforms in the land, naval and air 1939. He would become the 11th in a touched,” added his daughter April. branches of the Canadian Forces. He family of 14 children. Moe is survived by his wife Kae and also pushed for closer military ties with Before becoming a parliamentarian, children Moe Jr., Bobby, and April. He the U.S and their Star Wars missile de- John worked as a radio broadcaster for was predeceased by his daughter An- fence plan. CJOB radio and the CBC. drea. He also leaves behind his grand- Robert retired from cabinet leading John was elected in 1988. He would children Ashley, Devin, Brody, Robert, up to the 1988 election, following an go on to serve the riding of Charles- Natalie, Ryan, Eric and Mathieu. incident in West Germany. However, wood-St. James-Assiniboia in Winni-

Page 42 Beyond the Hill • Spring 2016 Beyond the Hill • Spring 2016 Page 43 POLITICAL PASSAGES

Slam tennis. His daughters recall him as the dad who could be heard yell- ing words of support and seen writing game notes from the sidelines of their field hockey matches. Patrick leaves behind his wife of 58 years, Patricia and his daughters Mari- etta, Virginia, Susanna and Tessa. He Patrick Crofton. Gérald Laniel. also leaves behind his eight grandchil- dren Kel, Blake, Taylor, Mika, Hannah, Piers, Marissa and Marcus. His extend- ed family remembers him as both a lis- peg for the next 20 years. While in the He chose to continue his relationship tener and a mentor. House, John served as Parliamentary with the military, serving on an assort- Secretary to the Minister of Interna- ment of Canadian ships as a navigating Gérald Laniel tional Trade, as well as Parliamentary lieutenant. While on training in Green- Former Liberal MP Gérald Laniel Secretary to the Minister of Agricul- wich, England, he was encouraged to passed away on February 2, 2016, at ture and Agri-food. He left politics in call on Patricia Williams, the sister of the age of 91. 2004. Saltspring’s family doctor, living in Gérald was born on August 8, 1924 That same year, John had the honour Europe. “The Pats” were wed within a in Salaberry-de-Valleyfield, Quebec. of being appointed the 23rd lieutenant- month and soon set sail for Canada. During WWII, he served as a flying of- governor of Manitoba. He remained Patrick retired from the Canadian ficer in the Royal Canadian Air Force’s the Queen’s representative until 2009. Forces with the rank of lieutenant- Coastal Patrol. He navigated the skies “Manitoba lost a good soldier,” said commander, CD (Canadian Forces’ from 1942 to 1945, and then went on current Lieutenant-Governor Janice Decoration) after 18 years of service, to serve as a captain in the 61 Light Filmon. “There are differences made deciding to spend his days operating Anti Aircraft Regiment, as a reservist. because he walked here amongst eve- the family farm. His journey into pub- He held this post from 1949 to 1958. rybody.” lic life was gradual, first campaigning Gérald then entered the world of in- “The overriding thing one thinks of for candidates in all levels of govern- surance brokerage. He was also a very when one thinks of John was his pas- ment in the 1970s, then sitting as an active member of his community, play- sion for social justice, his passion for elected alderman in the Municipality of ing key roles in the Jeune Chambre de those who were less advantaged in Saanich from 1980 to 1984. This cli- Commerce and other local associations. the world,” said Anita Neville, former maxed when he was elected as the MP In 1962, Gérald tried his hand at Winnipeg South Centre MP. for Esquimalt-Saanich in 1984. federal politics, succeeding in the rid- Prime Minister Trudeau said John, While in Parliament, he was once ing of Quebec’s Beauharnois-Salaberry. “served the people of Manitoba with chair of the Standing Committee on He remained in Parliament for 8 con- distinction.” National Defence, a member of the secutive terms. During his time in the “He had a true passion for a better Special Joint Committee on Canada’s House, he served as the Parliamentary Manitoba,” voiced Manitoba Premier International Relations and a member Secretary to the Minister of Industry, Greg Selinger. of the Standing Committee on Exter- Trade and Commerce and as the Depu- nal Affairs National Defence. Patrick ty Speaker and Chair of Committees of Patrick Crofton was known to spend his evenings hog- the whole of the House of Commons. Former Progressive Conservative MP ging the phone from his daughters as He was also president of the Associa- Patrick Crofton passed away on Janu- he spoke to Saanich residents about tion Internationale des Parlementaires ary 5, 2016. He was 80 years of age. their community concerns. He left the de Langue Française. In 1984, having Patrick entered this world in May of House in 1988. served 22 years as a parliamentarian 1935, on British Columbia’s beautiful Patrick’s retirement from political life under a variety of Liberal leaders, Gé- Saltspring Island. His pioneer family saw him serving on the local boards rald left the Hill. spent their time owning and operat- of groups like Oak Bay Lodge, Camo- Outside of the political realm, he be- ing the region’s Harbour Hotel (1916- sun College and the Commonwealth came vice-president of the St. Lawrence 1964). As a young boy, the eldest son Games Society. He was also an active Seaway. He retired in 1993. could often be found with a rugby ball Victoria Rotary Club and Victoria Golf Gérald is predeceased by his wife Ja- or tennis racquet in his hands. When it Club member. In his later years, Pat’s nine Sauvé. He is survived by his chil- came to academics, Pat attended both love for sports took the form of strict dren Normand, Marie-Andrée, Michel, University School and Royal Roads adherence to the TV schedules of the Jean-François and Christian. He also Military College. Olympics, NHL payoffs and Grand leaves behind his 14 grandchildren.

Page 42 Beyond the Hill • Spring 2016 Beyond the Hill • Spring 2016 Page 43 CHINA Ending atrocities in China Organ pillaging from By Hon. David Kilgour

From left to right: David Kilgour (L) with (C) and (R), author of The Slaughter: Mass Killings, Organ Harvest- ing, and China’s Secret Solution to Its Dissident Problem. Photo Credit: Simon Gross/Epoch Times.

n 2006, the International Coali- estimate, they have attracted 70 to titled Bloody Harvest. We concluded, tion to Investigate the Persecution 100 million adherents across the coun- with dismay, that for 41,500 of the Iof Falun Gong in China asked law- try by the late 1990s, since becoming Chinese transplants performed in the yer David Matas of Winnipeg and me public in 1992. Fearing threats to their years 2001 to 2006, the only plausible to investigate seemingly bizarre claims ideological supremacy, the Chinese explanation for sourcing was Falun of organ pillaging and trafficking from government banned the movement Gong practitioners. We are convinced those who follow the modern exercise in 1999 and considers it a cult. They that China’s party-state has been com- and spiritual movement Falun Gong continue to demonize Falun Gong mitting systematic murder against the across China. The group draws from through state media. community for almost 15 years. We and combines ancient Chinese tradi- Working as volunteers, Matas and I termed it a “new form of evil on the tions. By the Beijing party-state’s own completed two reports and a book en- planet” and continue to investigate.

Page 44 Beyond the Hill • Spring 2016 Beyond the Hill • Spring 2016 Page 45 CHINA

“We are convinced that China’s party-state has been committing systematic murder against the community for almost 15 years.”

One of our 33 methods of proof bility and a violation of World Trade was to have investigators make calls to Organization agreements. Every gov- hospitals, detention centres and other ernment should place an onus on its facilities across China, claiming to be importers to prove their products are relatives of patients needing trans- not made in effect by slaves. plants. The investigators would ask if Manufacturing Change they had any organs of Falun Gong for Professors Peter Navarro and Greg sale. We obtained admissions on tape Autry of California point out in their in which individuals from a number of book, Death by China: Confronting these facilities admitted the availability the Dragon- A Global Call to Action, of Falun Gong organs. These admis- that across the U.S., more than 50,000 sions were transcribed and translated. manufacturing plants and more than Our main conclusion was that there, 20 million jobs in the sector have been “Continues today to be large-scale outsourced over several decades, most- organ seizures from unwilling Falun ly to China. How many manufactur- Gong practitioners.” More specifically, ing jobs have been lost in Canada and “Their vital organs, including kid- elsewhere for the same reason? neys, livers, corneas and hearts, were Governments, investors and busi- seized…for sale at high prices, some- ness in Canada should examine why times to foreigners...” These organ they are supporting the violation of seizures are separate from those seized so many basic human rights in order from convicted persons sentenced to to increase trade and investment with death. China. For years, it has resulted mostly In the 2014 book The Slaughter: in jobs being outsourced to China and Mass Killings, Organ Harvesting, and continuous increases in bilateral trade China’s Secret Solution to Its Dissi- harvesting and transplanting their or- and investment deficits. Are we con- dent Problem, author Ethan Gutmann gans.” sumers so focused on access to inex- puts the persecution of the Falun Among other assertions, the sub- pensive goods that we ignore the hu- Gong, Tibetan, Uyghur and House committee, “Calls on the Government man, social and environmental costs Christian communities in context. He of Canada to consider ways to discour- paid by Chinese nationals to produce explains how he arrives at his “best age and prevent Canadians from tak- them? estimate” that the organs of 65,000 ing part in transplant tourism, where The world’s democrats, including Falun Gong and 2,000 to 4,000 Uy- the organs have not been obtained in Canada’s federal government and civil ghurs, Tibetans and House Christians an ethical, safe and transparent fash- society institutions, should nonethe- were “harvested” in the 2000 to 2008 ion.” less continue to engage with Beijing period. These organs are obtained for Many Falun Gong prisoners of con- and the broadest possible range of its wealthy Chinese and “organ tourists” science (persecuted based on their citizens. None of us should forget that from abroad. Unlike other countries, beliefs) survive in the estimated 350 the values we represent include dignity these Chinese “donors” do not survive forced labour camps across China, un- for all, rule of law and independent the process, because all vital organs til they are selected by computer data judges, multi-party democracy, corpo- are removed. banks as “organ donors” for recipients rate social responsibility, transparency, Condemnation from Canada waiting in hospitals in cities such as accountability, a good natural envi- Acknowledgement of these atroci- Shanghai. ronment and no trafficking in pillaged ties has now made its way to the halls Matas and I visited about a dozen human organs. of Parliament. In February of 2015, countries to interview Falun Gong The vast majority of the Chinese Canada’s all-party House Subcommit- who managed to leave both the camps people seek the same features in their tee on International Human Rights and China. They indicated that Falun government as the rest of us. They and released a statement condemning the Gong were the only camp inmates to the rest of the world must help stop pillaging of organs. It expressed, “deep be examined regularly and carefully by organ pillaging now. concern over credible allegations that doctors, but were also made to work The Hon. David Kilgour was a member of Par- prisoners of conscience and mem- in appalling conditions for up to 16 liament for 27 years (1979-2006). He served bers of religious and ethnic minority hours a day with no pay, little food under the Progressive Conservative Party, groups, including but not limited to and regular torture. The inmates make the Liberal Party and sat as an independent. practitioners of Falun Dafa and Uig- a range of export products often des- The views expressed in this column are the hurs, in the People’s Republic of China tined for multinational companies. opinions of the authors, and do not necessarily are being executed for the purposes of This is gross corporate irresponsi- reflect the views of Beyond the Hill.

Page 44 Beyond the Hill • Spring 2016 Beyond the Hill • Spring 2016 Page 45 Geoff @ 30 The Trump Tower of Inferno By Geoff Scott Donald Trump has captured the nation’s anger, and a lot of the disaffection people feel towards politics in general. Geoff Scott.

ou may not like him. You may not politician to come along in our lifetime. vective, and the “Oh, my God, did he accept him. You absolutely cannot He is still confounding just about every- just say THAT?!” nationwide reactions. Yignore him. I have a confession: body with the realization he has a real It’s like trying not to rubberneck an for the past six months, I have been both shot at the White House. accident on the opposite lane. It is, of fascinated and frightened by the specta- Trump Twitter tirade course, what draws Republican voters to cle of Donald Trump. The “Offender-in- Donald Trump requires media atten- the brash billionaire. Even though he is Chief” has changed the political conver- tion like you and I need air and water. an unrepentant, irascible racist and re- sation in America. Either his candidacy After decades of New York tabloids and ligious arsonist, and has demonized al- for the Republican Party nomination is other media exposure, television — espe- most every group of Americans, his sup- the most unique and refreshing politi- cially cable news — has fuelled Trump’s porters won’t hear anything bad about cal experience to come along in ages, or campaign, by giving wall-to-wall cover- their hero. Not to mention that they are we are witnessing a deepening descent age of his rallies and his often vicious, increasingly becoming more violent at into demagogy in the world’s greatest hateful trash talk on Twitter; it has the rallies. democracy. Donald Trump connects, flavour of a reality TV show. There is These are just a few verbatim quotes but he also scares the hell out of a lot even a Survivor element here: Who gets picked up from Trump fans and onlook- of people. to stay as this fight goes on? Donald ers. You couldn’t make these up: At this writing, the race for the nomi- Trump has captured the nation’s anger, - “Who’s cuttin’ off peoples’ heads? nation could heat up in a very different and a lot of the disaffection people feel Who’s bombing buildings? Who’s way. However, barring any totally un- towards politics in general. Conservative bombing airplanes? Not the Christians, foreseen move by a desperate Republican talk radio hosts maintain their listeners not the Jews, not the Buddhists – it’s the Party to take him out, Donald J. Trump are fed up with the system. They claim Muslims!” will almost certainly be the GOP nomi- talk radio is giving voice to listeners: - “[He’s] not your typical politician nee against, most probably, Democrat a growing army of Trump supporters who says everything that is politically Hillary Clinton next November. who feel he speaks for them. As for the correct. I want somebody who is able to Since 2007, Barack Obama has been other candidates fighting him? It’s like stand tall and say there are serious issues the face of change in the U.S. He has throwing pebbles at an aircraft carrier. in this country and they need to be ad- been a transformational figure, not just The brilliance of Donald Trump is dressed. We give Iran billions and our because of what he has done, but be- that he can set the agenda on almost bridges are collapsing. Seriously? I’m cause of who he is. The yearning for any given topic for a week. He sends his more interested in leadership experience change is just as high now as it was back target on the defensive by throwing a than political experience.” during the 2008 election. In many ways, lot of things against the wall, with per- - At an Ohio rally, one high school Trump is the new Obama. While the sonal insults directed at his rivals in long girl turned to her friends and said of Mr. current president is disciplined, thought- speeches. Then he waits to find the one Trump, “I didn’t think he was real, y’all. ful and professorial, Donald Trump says that does stick. Once he connects, he I thought he was a hologram.” he’s the bull who will break every piece hits it over and over again, throwing his - And from a columnist at The New of china in Washington. Angry and dis- opponents off message. He fully under- York Daily News: “Donald Trump is affected Republicans are responding to stands what TV needs. He has obviously like a 1950s B-movie. He just swallowed that. While he makes most of us gasp blown ratings and web traffic through some plutonium and he blew up to be with practically every utterance, the me- the roof. His appearances at rallies and Atomic Regular Guy. You know, he’s dia, and even some reluctant GOP estab- on live TV are frequently repellent, but just bigger; everything he does is big- lishment, have come to accept that Don- always riveting. It’s becoming impos- ger. ‘I’m bigger, I’m better, I’m more ald Trump is the most unconventional sible not to watch Donald Trump’s in- fabulous.’”

Page 46 Beyond the Hill • Spring 2016 Beyond the Hill • Spring 2016 Page 47 Geoff @ 30

Presidential candidate Donald Trump addresses a cheering crowd in Des Moines, Iowa. Photo by Max Goldberg.

Our bad boyfriend at the bar There’s a superficial feel to his assertions Lady and the Trump? Donald Trump is our bad boyfriend. that the U.S. should just let China deal Are we, in fact, watching a marathon- He’s the bad biker boyfriend who abuses with North Korea, or Germany deal length reality TV show? When you think us, but we stick with him because there with Putin in Europe, or that he would of it, a lot of this campaign is about a new are scarier people out there, and we need bomb ISIS into oblivion. But simplicity kind of reality TV. Hillary Clinton is one someone like that to protect us; and you sells with Donald Trump. He has a great of the great celebrities in the world, as is don’t find that strength anywhere else. He ear. His instincts are right in tune with a Donald Trump. We’re judging them, not is the bad boyfriend that you don’t want very populist appeal. What you’re getting as ordinary political candidates, but as to take home to your parents. The Repub- from Trump is what they most want to celebrities. The Republican Party agenda lican Party doesn’t know what to do with hear. is now being driven by someone who is him either. Trump is doing well for be- Anybody who doesn’t understand a demagogue and a neo-fascist. Trump’s ing Trump; this is what openly horrifies Donald Trump doesn’t drink enough. entire campaign is based on the rhetoric the GOP. There’s a paralysis within the Because every bar in the country, around of strength and fear. establishment. They don’t want Trump to about 11:30 p.m., is stacked with three or The Globe and Mail’s Marsha Leder- be the nominee. They fear a public feud four Donald Trumps. Much like the real man said it most succinctly: “Mr. Trump with the insult-spewing media figure. Donald, it’s impossible to hold them to talks about making America great again, While almost everyone in the party’s up- account the next day. but he has no idea what made it great per echelons agrees something must be Donald Trump has been speaking a in the first place. He doesn’t understand done to take down Trump, almost no one very interesting kind of common Ameri- what builds a country: it’s people—in- is willing to do it. This is infuriating the can English. It is vulgar, obscene and bul- digenous and immigrants.” Lederman GOP, which has no idea what Donald lying. Often, it is just raw, unvarnished, correctly points out what we all cel- Trump is about to do next. This has led bigoted racism. But people are experienc- ebrate: America, like Canada, has been one prominent Republican strategist to ing a great relief sometimes at hearing made great by the people who were here label his party as “a dumpster fire”. Other what they regard as straight talk, instead first, and the people who came, and are stalwarts maintain the party is so divided of complicated Washington-speak. While still coming, to our shores. over the Trump juggernaut, “we cannot other traditional candidates sound as if Love him or loathe him, one way or agree on the colour of an orange.” they’ve been briefed and stuffed, Trump another, Donald J. Trump will be a Very Every time Donald Trump doubles just says what comes into his head. Peo- Big Deal in the 2016 race for the White down on his belligerent statements, on ple say, “Yeah, that sounds a bit like what House. his anti-Muslim crusade, he creates even goes on at the bar.” It’s the old question Geoff Scott served as a Progressive Conserva- more arched eyebrows, not only in the of, “Who would you rather have a beer tive MP from 1978-1993 in the riding of Hamil- GOP, but also in the mainstream media. with?” ton-Wentworth.

Page 46 Beyond the Hill • Spring 2016 Beyond the Hill • Spring 2016 Page 47 PDF/X-1a:2003

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