Tuesday is the test. The Conservative government of Stephen Harper brings down its budget for the next chapter in Canada’s future on January 27, only after re-calling the Parliament it cowardly suspended late last year.

“The prorogation of Parliament was entirely unnecessary and a blow to the democratic process in Canada,” UFCW Canada National President Wayne Hanley says. “The economic crisis that has gripped Canada insists that we find new ways to deal with the challenges before us.”

 With a seemingly inevitable coalition government – the Liberals and NDP, supported by the Bloc Québécois – being formed last December, Harper simply closed up shop and sent everyone home. Without the electorate’s sanction to continue in Canada’s top job, the Prime Minister put the country on hold instead of dealing with the country’s growing economic concerns.

“Canadians deserve a real budget,” President Hanley says. “For too long, government has paid lip-service to major social issues, while ignoring the needs of Canada’s working families and poor. It is time to get our economy back on the right track.”

While an opposition coalition government is still a possiblity following the January 27 budget announcement, there is still hope the Harper government has listened to public concerns since it suspended Parliament. That would mean a budget with a national infrastructure policy, pension protections, and better access to Employment Insurance (EI) funds.

“Anything short of that is inexcusable,” President Hanley says. “Harper and those who support him must be brought to account – for all Canadians.”

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Join the growing movement for fairness and sensibility by clicking on the campaign page and make a difference by sending your elected representative a message that outlines your concerns. Together our voice is strong and together we can make sure Harper and the other members of the House represent the interests of workers and their communities.

News Links: 

Harper accused of

ditching principles

Toronto Star - 26 Jan 09

Canada's New Democrats

to oppose government budget

Reuters - 26 Jan 09

Liberals' budget decision

set for Wednesday
Calgary Herald -  26 Jan 09

The lost two months:

from statement to budget

by way of crisis

Globe and Mail - 26 Jan 09

Harper government down

to its last few principles

National Post - 26 Jan 09