Sunday, November 11, 2007

List Of Legendary Pokemons - Deluge

A simple linguistic minority? From

I have repeatedly stressed the obsolescence of the term "French Canadian" identity that was good practice in colonial times (mostly during conscription) where we appealed to the patriotism of the "second founding people" (actually, founder and vanquished him in spite of a country whose main business is its assimilation, see the Durham subject) and identify the "hero" of the heroic resistance of Quebec against General Arnold, the very innocent Dollard-des-Ormeaux, handy Salaberry-de-Valleyfield.

brother soon softened American enemy, the Canadian colony hardly knows what to do with his French-speaking populations and works to deny them the use of this language (except Quebec), so the French had virtually disappeared Saskatchewan and most of Manitoba, while falling so severe and inescapable in Ontario. Canada has indeed established a formal policy of linguistic assimilation, language targeting French and Francophone history. Do not let the current arrangements, particularly the facade of bilingualism, hide our history, or even try to rewrite it for ideological reasons.

policy of multiculturalism Trudeau in 1971, continued to undermine the work by establishing the "French Canadian" in its minority position-as-others and laying the myth of the "founding people" to oblivion pretext of political correctness and friendship Amerindian (another minority disposable, as we saw recently with the Canadian delegation to the UN). Since the first

referendum in 1980 Francophones outside Quebec take the role of hostages language, that Brand (A large reinforcements culture Acadian / Franco-funded Regional and disproportionate air time on Radio-Canada) to create doubt and guilt among the "heartless evil separatists" who dare to abandon their brothers language a certain assimilation (!). Evidence that Canada takes its role as the gravedigger of French America.

must reject this identity by understanding that the charade has gone on long enough, not only French-speaking communities elsewhere in Canada and America have had divergent histories and distinct from ours, being more distant cousins than brothers sharing the same birthplace, but moreover, it is almost certain they would benefit all a strong French state America, exporting its culture and French language funding initiatives across the continent. Otherwise, we melt into accepting the cultural aggregate national (Canadian) as a linguistic minority simple and as socio-cultural group who immigrated to Canada (the policy because "we are all immigrants", etc..) we turn our backs on our own history and our identity.

official Canadian bilingualism exists to protect the anglophone minority in Quebec and in opposition with the constitutional bomb in our little political ammunition. Moreover, according to the federal Liberals' election promises, the notwithstanding clause could disappear during the next decade. With this sword of Damocles hanging over our heads, the gradual neutralization of 101 blows of their constitutional and legal challenges and the failure of our immigration policies francophone be worth the French in Quebec as soon as the French will more critical mass (critical mass would be about 70%, after which there would be a rapid decline and inevitable)?

comfortable myth of "two founding peoples," it has not existed for a long time. Faced with the wolves, why do we accept always be sheep?


Friday, November 9, 2007

Carchoal Recepie Soap

discomfort Quebec identity

With all these social and ideological rifts that resurface in Quebec, the time has perhaps come to share things about our identity project. Because this is a project unfinished and imperfect, whose success will inevitably lead to a desire for greater emancipation policy. Now, decades ago that politicians come brouillier cards and we offer definitions often patronizing and reductive of our own identity. Besides this "we" that we can not define ourselves, and trying to define it for us. It is not possible to be free, to have desires even if it fails to define "us" and to live this "we" with passion and dignity.

look a little identities with which we juggle since the Quiet Revolution, with a backdrop, always, the idea that we would be a minority language within a culture "canadian coast to coast", rotting under the pink lily of Her Majesty the Queen of England.

-QUEBEC TERRITORY

Thus, there is the Quebec territory, which is also the Quebec government. This is a state without borders and without real autonomy, a purely administrative division exist only because the territory is divided, eventually. As the tourist areas, townships and municipalities, this territorial division provides infrastructure management and maintenance and this has enabled several generations of Quebecers to be janitors home. Like any country, Quebec has its share of arbitrariness, as evidenced by the dividing line that snakes through the peninsula in the Torngat Mountains of Labrador. This division of territory it is supposed to represent a social, cultural? This definition of Quebec (the "territoriality") may extend to citizens who live (by chance) the territory defined above. Quebecers, according to this definition, possess an identity circumstantial and coincidental and are Quebecers simply because they live in Quebec. To instantly lose that identity, they would move to Ontario or New Brunswick! Reduce group identity to the simple street address , the current location of the individual , that an approach that denies the very existence of Canadian provinces, to substitute a monolithic Canada! This is the approach proposed by the federal Liberals.

QUEBEC-CIVIC

Quebec-Location is somewhat different, since it relies on a concept of shared values and a common legal framework, developed an original way ... although it carefully avoids naming the "we" and explain the reason for this originality. Lamarck would be proud of this spontaneous generation. So this is a definition that requires a small net spin, all are part of Quebec-civic, but all do not participate as well. This identity is therefore at the junction of the "we-inclusive" and "us-participatory" in the sense that it applies to all by default, but some may feel that more membership, get involved. However, Quebec has not civic- Project unifying identity, by trying to include all costs, it aligns itself to the administrative definition (redundant) and the Quebec territory sacrifices his memory at the altar of "us" legal . Quebec would then exist by force of law, freed from its corporate citizens, static, optionally without historicity. This concept varies so confused between the "Neverland" and "symbolic country." Quebec-civic is more, in my opinion, an ideal secular technocrat rather difficult to achieve and which could lead to the abandonment of any attempt of identity. The question is: The definition Civic Quebec is so different from the definition of civic Ontarian or New Brunswick?

QUEBEC-NATION (KINGDOM IN CANADA, ETC)

Rest Quebec nation, a concept that attempts to defuse Stephen Harper when redefined (without asking our opinion) the Québécois as "nation in a Quebecoise united Canada. " To read between the lines, we finally discovered that this definition is in itself the seeds of its obsolescence : since the "Quebec nation" can not exist outside of a "united Canada" (outside the territorial and Canadian legal ) then it is simply the Quebec-Canada-territory or civic, but expressed differently.

The Quebec nation, we must reclaim and we define ourselves. Whenever we leave to others to define us, we give them the opportunity to minorized more, we turn into a negligible quantity, we submit to a paternalistic approach, not very different from the submission to the benefits of colonialism British and his superiority complex "civilizing".

TOWARDS AN IDEAL REPUBLICAN

Exercise the Bouchard-Taylor is perhaps not as innocent as it seems. This is actually the struggle between all these identities, with the background a fight between the nationalism of isolationism and nationalism opening to the world. These two nationalisms are even within Quebec nation and reflect different historical currents: the whiff of fascist and reactionary local trio-family-religion, as applied to the Duplessis era and very clumsily handled by ADQ, and revolutionary ideals and Republican, still smoldering from Papineau.

should be avoided at all costs that are the pitfalls of nationalism tinged with socialism, which too often drift into a ghetto, or even racial , stemming from our desire for national survival, and nationalism assumed wrong, politically-correct and chilly, from our minority and dominated.

In my humble opinion, that Quebec should arise, once and for all, free and aspiring to a republican ideal . Not only could this horrifying beyond belief and British Canada House to the marrow, but in addition it would give us a vision of society stronger, more powerful than the affectation of civic nationality.

Saturday, October 20, 2007

Can I Use A Projector In Broad Daylight

Beauce, entrepreneurial showcase of a sovereign Quebec?

( Note: This post is formed by the merger of two texts, which I completed in 2005 and 2007. )

I was thinking recently that the Beauce has often voted against sovereignty and I think we can find the causes in the particular history of the region. After the Conquest, Beauce was found outside the British sphere of influence. A few strides from the city of Quebec was then a valley that was, paradoxically populated but isolated from the rest of "Country French". Why the quasi-voluntary isolation? The British master saw no economic potential to the region ... but there is more.

AN ACCIDENT OF HISTORY

In 1775, while attempting to conquer U.S. troops back along the corridor formed by the boiler, Beauce help the revolutionary forces. The people of the island of Orleans and Bellechasse also helped them. Small detail dodged in formal treaties of history "canadian", where the good little French-Canadian aid without hesitation the British colonial power ...

isolation of the Beauce is an accident of history, we can find a similar situation in the Saguenay-Lac-Saint-Jean. This region has also, in fact, developed a fierce sense of identity. Found to a lesser extent, this feeling in Témiscouata.

The rest of francophone Quebec shows a lot more cohesion, the axes of the St. Lawrence or the Richelieu River, major, have long been welded at the social and cultural development. Beauce, meanwhile, is located outside the main axis of communication, in a small inaccessible. The "black legs" were those who Beauce, to sell their produce to market in Québec, would circumvent the rapids of the river boiler through marshlands!

The latest settlement areas as the Laurentians, Outaouais, Abitibi example, show no such peculiarities - they were colonized by extension of the main settlement area.

It should be noted that the Beauce has developed very largely in turning his back on the economic power of Montreal. As for Quebec, the city is seen as a client than as a purveyor. The Beauce Valley commercial dynamism, can export in two directions: the city of Quebec and the USA. The valley opens out at both ends, on two complementary markets.


WHY DO FLOWERS IDEAL SOVEREIGNTY NOT BEAUCE

The economic development plan of the Beauce should take a prominent place in a sovereign Quebec. Not because we do want to "buy" the vote Beauceron, but because this region has developed its economic potential and optimally ... original.

A first observation: the Beauce is a region which exports. Some area businesses have experienced very strong growth and are "success stories" and the export is as much regional and continental and even international.

The Beauceron are bilingual, on average, than people in other regions of Quebec. This bilingualism is not one of assimilation or cultural weakness, it is simply to master the language of business in North America. The social fabric is still very homogeneous, immigration is relatively small and easily integrated, we do not find phémomène assimilation into English. The result is that the Beauceron does not feel threatened, they do not feel that French is in danger or even be an issue in their region. Since

Beauce developed without reliance on investment of Quebec or Ottawa, sovereignists arguments concerning interference in Ottawa or on the Harms of economic federalism are well smile Beauce, who are throwing hand. We see how the political discourse of the Bloc did not care. To summarize: the "black legs" as the crows are not afraid of scarecrows waving to them. To get the Beauceron, it takes a positive approach, concrete and preserve the achievements of the region. In other words, it must change promises an accentuation of the characteristics that make this region so dynamic Beauce.

It is easy to understand why the discourse on the sponsorship scandal received a mixed reception in the Beauce, they did not feel at all concerned. The Beauceron thinks: "The Liberals have wasted taxpayers' money? Us replace them, do an investigation and punish those responsible. Otherwise, business is business ..."

Instead of criticizing our busy little squirrels, our jovial capitalist, it would be better to offer them something interesting. Business is business, we repeat ...

BUSINESS PLAN IN 8 POINTS FOR BEAUCE

1. Quebec International Airport.
Studies show that the vast majority of multinational companies settled in less than an hour's drive from an international airport. If you like, for example, attract a national office of Nestle, one must have a direct flight to Switzerland. Currently, Toronto monopolizing direct flights, the headquarters moved to North York or Mississauga. It is also one of the reasons for economic decline of Montreal (since transferred numerous flights to Toronto).
The same logic works in reverse: to export its production to third countries, should ideally be able to invite customers to visit its facilities.
Until Quebec is not independent, there will be no international airport in Quebec, and Saint-Georges de Beauce remain disadvantaged by the current situation. A company that becomes a very big Beauce might even be tempted to move its international offices in Toronto or Montreal.
The ideal solution is, clearly, to have an international airport in Quebec.

2. Completion of regional rail and road infrastructure.
It is very important that Highway 73, on 4 channels, be continued to Saint-Georges. This highway is essential for the trucking, so for exports.
A railroad to transport containers (and passengers) may also be constructed on the axis of the highway. Prime Railway sovereign Quebec, it might work using conventional electric locomotives, quiet, clean and very efficient. This would boost exports, allowing the transport of large volumes of freight (about 100 containers per train, against 4 per truck).

3. The valuation of the ports of Quebec and Rivière-du-Loup (Cacouna).
Exporting firms require port facilities to export efficiently. Instead of depending on the port of Montreal (poorly located) or Halifax (too far), exports could be done by Quebec Cacouna or, depending on season and availability. The port could log onto the rail and truck route to create a genuine "motorways of the export". Because of its location, St. George could also serve as a springboard to the Atlantic city of Portland (Maine), an ice-free port in winter.

4. Enhancement of the Kennebec-Chaudière International Corridor.
The ongoing construction of Highway 73 to the U.S. border and beyond would provide a direct path to export to the United States. Funded jointly, the highway side of Maine would join the 95 in Waterville. This connects the Beauce to a highly efficient motorway network, the U.S. side, and would also give access to the Atlantic port of Portland, another interesting route for exports and a port "all seasons". Beauceronne prosperity would be shared with Maine and with our National Capital Region, Quebec.

5. Obtaining the status of "free zone" for the southern part of the Beauce. A
zone is an area in a strategic location, where they removed some legal or tax to stimulate the economy and transnational operations. Beauce would, in a sovereign Quebec, the best candidate for such status. In recent centuries, free zones such as Monterrey (Mexico), Trieste (Italy), Hong Kong or Djibouti have experienced great prosperity. More recently, small countries like Macedonia have established zones near major cities and airports in order to stimulate economic development. We will return later in this article.

6. A policy favoring the installation of international offices throughout along the Quebec - Saint-Georges.
A targeted economic development policy will promote the construction small office buildings, respecting the regional architecture and preferences of local people in the axis of the Chaudiere River. Companies will certainly settle in the interest of less than an hour from the national capital, near a major port and international airport, along a highway to facilitate exports, and ideally in a free zone .

7. Increased political clout for Beauce.
One of the most immediate consequences of independence will be an increasing political weight of the Beauce. Currently, Beauce County has one federally (1 / 308) and two provincial ridings (2 / 125), which makes it a political weight by about 0.9%. The calculation may seem a little brutal, even simplistic, but you realize very quickly that this is a fairly reliable indicator of the weight of a region, the prioritization of their needs when it comes time to take economic decisions. In a sovereign Quebec, the initial weight of the Beauce would be 1.6% (almost double). It could increase rapidly with the population, through economic incentives discussed here.

8. An area model for Quebec and for the world.
Beauce could become a model and pride, a window on the economic dynamism of Quebec. The entrepreneurial spirit having established very early, a sovereign Quebec could boost the spirit and allow it to be accomplished to reach its full potential. According to his model and building on its success, other zones could be created, in the Brome-Missisquoi for example (see below). It has much of the desired characteristics. The Estrie region has already begun to explore its potential in areas relating to engineering, plastics and biotechnology. Some industries also settle at or near Magog of medium-sized cities, proximity to the United States as an incentive. Current priorities in regional development are unfortunately not favorable, we can blame the passage Industry Canada.

WHY QUEBEC HAS NEED OF FREE ZONES?

By studying the economic development of various regions of Quebec, I finally identified two areas (counties, actually) that have enormous economic potential, but has not yet fully developed: the southern Beauce and the southern county of Brome-Missisquoi.

The idea with Beauce would establish a free zone in the south (between St. George and the border), then expanding the motorway and rail Beauce and through Maine (along the valley roads in Quebec and 73/173 201/295 / 95 of the U.S. side) to create a major economic corridor between Quebec City and the axis Waterville-Augusta-Portland. This opens the Quebec market for food arriving by the deadweight of Portland (ice free) and stimulates the development of transport infrastructure on the Quebec side (eg, increased volume of cargo at the airport in Quebec). Obviously, export commodities produced in the area produces enormous commercial benefits.


the side of Brome-Missisquoi, we take advantage of the interconnection with Interstate 89 on the American side to establish a large industrial park halfway between Saint-Jean-sur-Richelieu Cowansville cities would also benefit economically. Rail links are also interesting in this sector. And infrastructure are currently under-utilized, which gives them a good growth potential.


To realize such projects, Quebec would likely have on hand the economic levers needed to carry them out (because there are many skills involved and no federal precedent in Canada, I think). Hence the place that this kind of project could have in a sovereignty argument.

However, I quickly identified the main obstacle to this kind of project: attitudes. Talk about free zones or tax holidays, and people go to the barricades, leaving the insults of the day ("colonized!", "Neo-liberal!") And evoking the image of Mexican maquiladoras and the resulting unsanitary . Apocalyptic images of a huge brown cloud floating above the green pastures of our accursed fallow valleys. People do not understand. A free zone is still subject to the standards here, be they environmental, social or security. Simply settling industries in free zones enjoy tax arrangements interesting, in addition to customs processes (import-export) simplified. Who benefits from

ZONES?

A free zone is an area of limited size, in which a template is reduced tax applied to companies, manufactures, and in some cases to workers. In short, these incentives Fiscal much bolder than those found in programs such as the timid "Cité du multimédia" (in Montreal).

The free zone is usually a major industrial park on the edge of a port, airport or border bribery. No fee / tax / duty is retained on manufactured goods that are exported. No tax is applied on income reinvested in development. Reduced bureaucracy and a business culture focused on exporting help attract industries.

Who Benefits? Workers primarily provided (to my opinion) to establish standards of decent employment within the zone. Everyone is glad to see the industry moving locally, right? The community will recover its investment through local prosperity, taxation on non-traded goods (local markets), taxation (albeit small), possibly also through tolls on roads nearby.

The recipe exists, with variations, and it was used by a lot of countries, usually with success. This stimulates the development and concentration of industries. In my view, however, it is better to install a free zone in a well defined, good area, close to mid-sized cities BUT relatively empty at the start.

Obviously, the initial investment involves the construction of basic infrastructure and improving transport routes. For this reason, I identified the axis south of 73/173 in the Beauce. Same for the north end of Highway 89 (USA), which effectively gives on Route 133 in Quebec. The north-east of Missisquoi Bay, at the intersection of Routes 133 and 202, is a strategic location.

CONCLUSION

" (...) two areas related to the U.S. border, Beauce with almost full employment and the Eastern Townships, have clearly contributed to the internationalization of the economy of Quebec. It is undeniable that Montreal has been the locomotive of change, but there was also the effect of secondary engines. "
Jean-François Lisée" Is Quebec a North American Region-State? " in the journal Policy Options, 2003

Wednesday, October 17, 2007

Play Pokemon Silver Save

convergent trajectory: the liberal and the sailboat galley NDP

THE BORN-AGAIN

Dion Liberals

The party Canadian Liberal traditionally scattered around the "center", is repositioning itself in the post-Christian about a center-left more or less authentic. The movement has been sharpened by the government (clumsily) by Stéphane Dion. In doing so, he approaches the NDP, who is also a left-wing social (welfare state) but further, more centralized, pan-Canadian ", and more interested in moral comfort in our society than the construction of a set or even viable prosperous Canada.

THE REALIGNMENT OF THE LEFT CANADIAN

The meeting of the NDP and the Liberal Party is now inevitable, they act now in the same arena of ideology, the only major difference being that the PLC is essentially Ontario (focus) while the NDP is mainly eccentric (west coast and east coast).

The NDP's activist base behaves mainly as a network of lobbyists supporting various causes. The activist base of the LPC is mainly corporatist, but is now changing. There has also to exchange electorate on both sides in some counties. Despite logistical difficulties, so a reconciliation is possible.

This might result should the collapse of the LPC as a major party, a merger would be more or less forced (and uncomfortable) with the NDP, or perhaps a "grand alliance" to form a mix of center-left more or less solid. It is anticipated that a landslide victory for Conservative party would send a very violent shock wave the Canadian left, from there, nothing is impossible.

CONSERVATIVE PARALLEL WITH THE SINKING OF THE 1990S

When the Conservative Party collapsed after Mulroney, the possibility of a merger with an "ideological neighbor" was not an option, the party Conservative right was virtually alone on the ideological spectrum. The failures of the "spinoff" conservatives of the 1990s (Canadian Alliance, Reform Party, etc.) have shown, the ideological consolidation is the only way to regain power after the collapse of a major party. CONCLUSION


Tomorrow will we see the emergence ... "New Liberal Democratic Party (NPLD) or an outright" Canadian Democratic Party (PDC) ... an eclectic vehicle and an uneasy alliance, existing only for against the Conservatives? Certainly we are now seeing a radicalization of ideological positions in Canada, as it has never happened in modern Canadian politics. In this context, a center position becomes less marketable, because the political class needs to emulate the ideological shifts of the population it claims to represent ...


Monday, October 1, 2007

What Does Time Is Like Rubber Mean

There is nothing sacred

DEBUNK THE STATUE OF BOURGAULT

There is nothing sacred, least of all Pierre Bourgault. What makes me laugh today, this is the way of some people to ride Levesque separatists in the mud while hoisting Bourgault the status of demigod.

Bourgault, this writer who wanted to be a politician!

It's so easy to identify with characters young at heart - coat style leather bum chin to James Dean, depth typically nietzchéenne revolutionary - they have never actually worked to accomplish something something concrete politically, and who complain about their own failures and "betrayal" of their surroundings. A politician who complains about the betrayals of others is like a taxi who complains of being lost in the city.

Bourgault's inability to organize a political party, to reconcile the differing views, to delegate responsibilities and powers, to listen to others talk ... it connects you, friends?

Bourgault has been a well best writer, journalist, polemicist and commentator than a politician.

The INR was more a political club or a social forum, a real party. He would never have been able to bring constitutional changes, much less bring about unilateral secession. It was a forum for political and social revolutionary ideas of the time, relevant but not complete in itself. THE MYTH OF

"PARTY DIFFERENT"

Even today, sellers of ideas are popular, they are Socialists or Libertarians ... they seduce, but what have they really sacrificed to advance Quebec, except to sell books of political analysis self-indulgent, produce tabulations in Microsoft Excel, and complain about the incompetence of suspected villains elected politicians ? The real losers

, these are marginal, these self-proclaimed prophets, who have never been and will never have the power ... but who say, with their air of supreme morality: "Oh if I were prime minister I would do this and that, I would be so much better than these careerists.

Yet these are not photogenic idealistic public support (which they despise, while claiming to understand it!). They have no ability to the concessions necessary to the exercise of power. They fail to convince, complain the media "rogue" or social values "corrupt." They are so noble in their crusade to them. Maybe that deep in themselves they are aware of bear the seeds of their own failure.

SOCIALIST : Have you noticed how the socialist creed that considers the population has not good moral values and that we must educate , even frame it? It sounds like the wailing of social conservatives or credits Caouette!

Libertarian : Have you noticed how the libertarian credo considers all social organization, power manager, as a suspect? It sounds like the revolutionary Trotskyists. The libertarian ideal of breaking down borders, governments, organizations, to release the citizen ... Is not this called the permanent revolution ?

It is easy to sell the idea of "different party" idealism of wall-to-wall, purity of intentions. Present itself as an anti-politician who will revolutionize the Quebec and also run the orangeades in fountains. Just look at the marginal baba-cool of Québec solidaire, who lives literally on the margins of Quebec values real. Or that the ADQ endlessly entangled in its own contradictions. Which political party can boast of having taken more than 15 years before becoming mature, and have always failed? The ADQ!

HOW NOT SEDUCED BY THE QUEBEC

sovereignist If the Left wants to propose a new deal Quebec people, this is certainly not the socialist wing of QS sauce Davido-Khadirienne who manages to push it into the throat of the average Quebec. This, it is NOT a socialist and did not want to become. I feel that there are more green or PQ separatists disappointed that genuine socialists in the electoral base of QS.

These are not revolutionaries separatists who dream of a Party to the pure ideals Bourgaultien, who manage to reconcile the middle class - down-to-earth - with a social project involving major risks. Garroch sovereignty in the face, without a parachute, wearing an unbridled optimism, and you'll get between 0.5% and 5% of the votes.

Draw your own conclusions.

Tuesday, September 11, 2007

How Long Until Temazapm Works

The triumph of the absurd: "Quebecers of French Canadian Quebecers

The ineffable Bouchard has put together an identity as junk only intellectuals lack of political correctness (and moral warmth) may lay: we would be "Quebecers of French-Canadian origin." Such an expression is as sterile and depressing at the limit of absurdity. So we are, to paraphrase, the inhabitants of a geographic territory with civic-linguistic origins! Quite a detour to avoid naming a cat, a cat.

Here is a text written in response to blog Grand Inquisitor Language Paris, Paul Roux, who made quite candidly " an overview of the various terms used to describe Quebec " to stimulate discussion around the proposal of Mr. Bouchard.

a semantic problem

If we break the expression, "Quebecers of French-Canadian origin", we understand that this is a person who was born in Canada (outside Quebec?) And whose mother tongue is French (but necessarily), which was then established (geographically) in Quebec. If one takes the trouble to stress the original "Canadian" of a "Québécois" is that the origin is not in Quebec, is not it? Otherwise there is redundancy.

It is obvious that this poses for small semantic problems, I was born in Quebec, I am from Quebec and some of my ancestors came from France, Switzerland and Belgium. Will there be identified with his pedigree, so to please Mr. Bouchard and his detours semantics?

THE MYTH OF LINGUISTIC IDENTITY

Canada has built its foundation myth from two linguistic identities, which were mutated in ethnic identities. As if language was a people! As if Saskatchewanians, Acadians and Quebecers of the St Lawrence shared a coherent story and a common identity! The Canadian identity model is wrong. There are indeed a nation of Quebec, which is conscious of its own existence and which also includes groups that participated in the march of Quebec francophones in the St. Lawrence Valley, but also those of the Saguenay and Beauce, have their peculiarities, Métis and Aboriginal groups, the Irish, they are melted in our set or whether they have retained their traditions, and immigrants latest, if they chose to live "with us" and not "our side".

TWO HALF-IDENTITIES

"French Canadian" is a term that designates two half-identities. The sum does not at all, but rather because an identity crisis that prevents us from defining ourselves by ourselves and for ourselves.

Finally, Quebecers are as a people, identity as a nation (and not ethnic, linguistic or civic). But since Quebec is not a country, it is possible to live without feeling Quebecers. In this case, in good conscience refuse to participate development and evolution of this common identity, inclusive and well defined.

The proposal of Mr. Bouchard will have at least had the merit of demonstrating, with unexpected force, that the complex of Elvis Gratton is still alive in our beautiful "nation within a nation's civic symbolism."

Saturday, August 18, 2007

Tech Deck Live Sing Up

Feeding in the era of globalization

THE ORIGINS OF GLOBALIZATION

The globalization of trade and human movement is not a new concept. Who would have thought that the establishment of the Silk Road between the Roman West and China's Han Empire, would be the first wire ( silk ) between two cultures separated by thousands of miles? Caravan trade route to the spices of the Renaissance, all over the world were quickly joined by those invisible son that allowed food and wealth to travel at great expense, unimaginable distances at the time. It is said that the clove cost its weight in gold in the early 17th century. Black pepper was a luxury. Even the salt transported by camel across the Sahara, has long been an essential commodity but very expensive.

It is however with the establishment of the first true maritime empires that global trade routes, driven by competition between English, Portuguese and Dutch in Asia, have consolidated. It is said also that the insurance policies were created when English speculators began to bet on commercial vessels (when the boat was lost at sea, they lose their implementation for the benefit of the shipowner).

The British Empire functioned much like our "Western bloc" modern: the importance of raw materials (minerals, textile raw materials, foods, spices) of its colonies, transformed, and then exporting the finished products. We always do the same thing with bauxite from Guinea (transformed aluminum ingots in Saguenay or Kitimat, or more than 10,000 km from the place of extraction). Ironically, then we sold planes or cars with aluminum chassis Africans.

DERIVATIVES AND RESISTANCE

the early 20th century, Gandhi became a sort of anti-globalization activist first. It was absurd that the Indians are forced to buy British textiles cheaply when they themselves produced, at low wages, cotton or linen used to make them! The solution advocated by the great pacifist buy clothing made from textiles local unprocessed; fabrics coarser but more profitable locally, too. When buying a rough cotton shirt in India today, you follow the footsteps of Gandhi. Guineans will they do such a day?

The excesses of globalization are insidiously installed from the heyday of the British Empire in the late 19th century. It was at this time that the concepts underlying the modern state emerged, including the invention of the visa and passport. While raw materials and manufactured goods began to travel, they began to establish guidelines, limits on Travel between human settlements and cities. For the system to be preserved, it must control what is exchanged and ... which languished!

FACTOR ENERGY

But what has perverted the trade is all about the ridiculously low cost of energy since the end of the second world war. Coal, then oil has broken the principle of locality in the production-processing goods. Can be considered as incompatible economic systems, which formerly operated in isolation, are now interconnected at multiple levels. It can carry a perishable food, product in an economic system in line with local wages less than $ 1 a day, thousands of miles in a controlled atmosphere container for a ridiculous price per tonne. All thanks to fossil fuels. That's what makes the banana and clove are no longer luxury items ... but there are other consequences!

When transportation costs are so low, it is possible to sell a commodity produced on the other side of the planet (where the pay scale and cost is different from ours) to a fraction of the price. Thus the Thai or Filipino furniture replace our local markets. Same with apples or melons Chilean Mexican ... Yet while we have a climate conducive to growing these fruits! And yet these are often imported fruit varieties giant tasteless ("pockets of water" as I call him), sometimes grown under conditions unacceptable, and are picked long before maturity so that they can withstand transport. Result, they are far less nutritious than fruit picked at term and went on sale immediately. You love it, the fruit that tastes like water or starch? Besides the pollution caused by long-distance transport, the steps handling, overpack, etc..

TRACK SOLUTIONS

We live like princes, because our real prosperity is multiplied by the relative poverty of the rest of the planet. So no, it will not be possible to combat these excesses of globalization as two economic realities are in place, either: (1) the difference in scale between local and distant economies, and (2) costs ridiculously low transnational transport.

solutions? Encourage the growth of the middle class in countries in Africa, Asia and South America. Forcing large Vessel owners to use clean, safe and employ seafarers well paid and well treated (this will cost them dear). Establish a surcharge to the distance traveled by perishable goods (to put that money into environmental programs and in local agriculture).

RICH COUNTRIES, Wasteland

A troubling aspect of the globalization of food (agricultural production outsourced to third countries, processing stages spread over vast territories, etc.) is that many industrialized countries have become dependent, absolutely, trade. The richest countries tend to drop in primary agricultural production in favor of more lucrative economic activities. They place themselves in some way voluntarily into deficit in agriculture. In addition, the land previously dedicated to the production of foodstuffs are often converted to urban neighborhoods, in non-food products (textile products like cotton, oil, feed and biofuels), when they simply are not abandoned and left fallow . In Brazil, there is a conversion from agriculture to soybeans (for oil), canola, etc.. In Uzbekistan, the state maintains a monoculture of cotton, while the population is thirsty, that famine is endemic and the soil is highly contaminated by pesticides.

There are also historical examples. We should not forget that Spain has undergone major disturbances in the twilight of his empire at the end of the 19th century. The country had been left fallow since the riches drawn out of the colony allowed the Spaniards to obtain supplies of foodstuffs throughout Europe and North Africa - all paid for with gold from the colonies. Major irrigation works built by the Romans and maintained by the Moors, fell into ruin. The country was drier than ever, despite the efforts modern never regained its agricultural capacity of yesteryear. Food production and water management remain important sources of concern in countries where the soil has been neglected.

QUEBEC VULNERABLE?

With the globalization of agriculture, we produce in Quebec enough food to feed all Quebecers? If there was a crisis of international transport, a world war or economic collapse tomorrow morning, how many children die of hunger in Montreal or Quebec? Currently, we convert our best farmland in the suburbs, while farms in Quebec are strangled by the Canadian agricultural planning system, North American and global (FCC, NAFTA, GATT, etc.). We no longer have the right to financially assist our agricultural producers or even the preferred, as markets open to products cheap which, paradoxically, come from countries where hunger prevails. Their hunger could become ours one day.

When we will produce almost no food, we become very vulnerable to any economic or commercial surge that could affect (even marginally) the volume of our imports. It would be desirable and even essential, therefore, introduce a policy of food self-sufficiency for Quebec. It would be an important gesture of sovereignty and a responsible initiative.


Addendum: According this study (which analyzed some sectors of production), several European countries are any more self-sufficient in terms of food production. The case of Great Britain is unique. Although his self-sufficiency rate is 83%, it is an island and in case of crisis (such as a blockade or quarantine because of an epidemic), it is unclear whether the country would fare without a major famine. This analysis is even more pessimistic for Great Britain and assesses its sufficiency is only 60% real (ie, the UK currently imports 40% of its food). Some communities in northern Europe do not expect a situation of scarcity arises and take initiatives such as this area of Copenhagen which established an experimental food self-sufficiency.

Addendum (2) : In a letter sent to the PQ this spring, I had proposed to include a policy of food self-sufficiency (presented as a gesture of sovereignty ) in the party platform. It seems that my proposal was ignored at this point, but the subject is now news and it will not be possible to turn a deaf ear. Again, the PQ can be found behind the headlines.

Thursday, May 24, 2007

Nordicstars Remix Pack

A budget that is neither lucid nor

Monique Jerome-Forget, proud of his new shoes, we just lay a budget for a single purpose: to finance the purchase of her new shoes out of the federal payments.

At least that's the conclusion I arrived declaring that the surplus of nearly one billion dollars will go ... not in education (to train entrepreneurs, managers and doctors) ... not in payment of the debt (to reduce our collective debt, and further increase our flexibility) ... but directly into the pockets of the wealthy. Not that we should punish them in any way, our rich, but with our progressive tax system, everyone pays their fair share already. So why have redistributed money this way?

Let's see what the opposition parties have to say!

The Parti Quebecois leaning slightly more towards the side that says Solidarity Lucid said, he would have preferred to see a part (say half) of budget surpluses versed in education (which is in disrepair - except UQAM its premises purchased with Air Miles adulterated) and healthcare (particularly for repatriating physicians by improving their salaries and invest in training new doctors). In short, with Legault and Marois tandem finance, the PQ is at least the merit of being consistent in its pronouncements, which are much less "so-so-so ... immobility" that what the media-gna gna like to introduce ourselves. Legault seems to be very strong now, very confidently, that bodes well for the rest of the match.

The Army Duplessis of Quebec (ADQ) head was so swollen by his recent success at the polls, that his chief bullies no longer have any sense of proportion. They are already cheuffes Quebec, having crushed the PQ, PLQ, QS, the Greens and the unions under their wicked boots polished with wax to démagoguenard. Oh yes: they "bear pants" and they "say out loud what people are thinking to themselves". What panties and what people? We will never know. The ADQ

clearly leans towards said Lucid (and sometimes a little too much, but that's another story). In this sense, their critique rather affects management Generations Fund, for to accelerate the repayment of debt. One of the basic principles of Lucid is to avoid shoveling deficits to future generations (an idea very responsible, we must admit). It could therefore, in all intellectual honesty, qualify the criticism of the ADQ leaders on this issue. At the office

prescritorial La Presse, PLouQistes chief welcomed this budget loudly while drinking a glass of PPPepsi Light, as it should. They do not know exactly why they are satisfied with the budget, but they are satisfied by definition, Alain Dubuc praises the "courage" of the Liberals without too explain what exactly who is brave - perhaps it is the act of listening to the nonsense of Jean Charest for more than 8 hours per day, 5 days a week. Alain Dubuc

obviously trying to convince us that critics of the budget are justified. In their blogs, Liberal activists are trying to emphasize the "inconsistency" criticism of Gilles Taillon (formerly the Employers' Council). As if it was not possible to have a nuanced opinion!

In fact, what has particularly pleased the bosses in this budget, it is certainly not the management of surpluses. A single point is sufficient to put the employers in the pocket of the Liberals: the abolition of the tax on business capital, before 2011 (2012?). For employers, the public debt, infrastructure and basic services arrive Xth position, away from the profit of enterprise and training of interns racking records.

The volte-face Gilles Taillon may be explained by a simple change of priorities. He may have even taken a liking to the Quebec state, now it is headed (oops no, the ADQ is made at the navel). Remains to be seen if a coherent thought or just a bully in pirouette dress parade.

Personally, I find that Ms. Forget has bought shoes absolutely awful, she is overwhelmed with his memory stick (the WiFi is encrypted "in" in 2007, Madam), and the increase in debt is now a pure product Liberal (which can no longer blame their predecessors, that is to say for themselves the state of public finances). Little Miss Madame grieves us to go spend "72 million" in election? It's so sad to hear politicians criticize COSTS of democracy, while their own government is a double minority issues and reach a billion dollars. It's really, really cheap.

I have a theory on this, but shhh, do not repeat too high: Monique Jerome-Forget is actually son Daniel Johnson, with a wig on his noggin, as beardless as usual, and just talking little more acute. It's been over a decade that had not been entitled to a budget neo-liberal ...

Thursday, May 17, 2007

Discolored Cervix Pap

secured notes in the margins

I repeat here some of my thoughts the past few days, which took the form of comments in other blogs (especially those of Joseph Facal and sovereignty Plume). I take this opportunity to improve and to correct some unfortunate typos.

I thank all the bloggers sovereigntists or not they are part of our group. Bloggers, participate actively in the ferment of ideas, the vitality of the sovereignty movement and the great reflection of the domestic social democrats of Quebec.

1. ON THE END OF THE REIGN OF TONY BLAIR

The era of Tony Blair has just ended and already his successor, Gordon Brown, just restore the old name of the party (the "New Labour" becomes the "Labour ") and the old logo. The Labour is going back to its old policy of the center-left Labour Party.

The level of the party's popularity is at its lowest in Scotland, the collapse of Labour to the SNP even took a young pro-independence party. Scotland has not half the policy space of Quebec, but the very idea that the SNP could have the success scares Unionists.

short, it is reasonable to ask what "killed" the Labour: is it the obstinacy of Blair to engage in unpopular wars to restore some pride to the British military (do not forget that 'he admires Margaret Thatcher), is the simple test of power, is the failure the center-right policies that have been applied inconsistently by a party that was trying to "protect his left" while "to right"?

fact remains that the "case" New Labour is now a serious warning to the many parties in Western democracies are trying to refocus on the side lucid-reformer. Can they "deliver"?

It is curious that it worked in some countries of northern Europe (one thinks, for example in Sweden and its so-called principle of "golden triangle") then ... bloc countries that Anglo-Saxon can not.

Could it be that the British parliamentary model has the effect of hardening in two ideological blocs unchanging, represented by a Social Democratic Party and a conservative party? And if a party tries to emerge from its "ecological niche", he is irresistibly drawn, as drawn by a rubber band? In light of this hypothesis, it is reasonable to ask: What if creating a second axis ideological (based on the constitutional issue) is not sufficient to ensure the long term, the presence of new ecological niches for parties occupying the political scene in Quebec?

If this is the case, one wonders what would then be possible developments in the political balance of Quebec. The coexistence of two social democratic parties from the same mold, from 1973 to 2003, and the absence of a true conservative party during this period of 30 years, would it be an "aberration" in the parliamentary model in the UK Quebec?

should perhaps worry ...

2. CONSULTATIONS ON THE STRENGTH OF POPULAR

I mentioned some discomfort sovereignists against the PQ in an article in my blog, in early April. What is the PQ, apart from the promotion of sovereignty and the preparation of a single gesture (the referendum)? As far as I know, the PQ is not a lobbying organization or dissemination of ideas (think tank style ), which is content to print flyers and studies ... is a nationalist party that is supposed to use everything in its power to advance Quebec! I have found that two "acts of sovereignty" significant between 1996 and 2003, namely:
  • 1997: attempt to get rid of the Lieutenant Governor (as Jean Chrétien has happily ignored by appointing Lise Thibault)
  • 1999-2000: Law 99 (which has had less impact than might have been expected)
Without criticizing the efforts put behind these attempts, I would like the fact that these "acts of sovereignty" from experienced unfortunate, especially because the then government has deliberately confined the steps to the National Assembly. However, the best we can give weight to such projects is the direct and unequivocal support of the Quebec nation. Why do not carry out a referendum before moving these laws or decrees?

If a clear majority of the population vote for the right to self-determination of Quebec, or in favor of abolishing the office of lieutenant governor, it weighs much heavier than a parliamentary vote, which will always seen as partisan and who may (in such cases) be dismissed out of hand by Ottawa.

The referendum is not ONLY for the sovereignty and is a very powerful tool, which gives legitimacy to any absolutely unquestionable political gesture. If the friend Arnold in California is capable of governing "by referenda," we can do.

3. ON POLITICAL REFORM NEEDED

Since our parliamentary system does not (it seems) the formation of coalition governments, the PQ was sentenced to pose as party convener of the left and right, in the hope of forming a majority. We have discussed often, it is not desirable that the PQ is a party "without contents", which hopes to take power with the only Article 1.

So there is an urgent need to refocus the party on the desires and values of citizens, who have played for 30 years. Is it possible to "Rake wide enough? I do not know. One thing is certain, the electorate seems to follow a distribution curve left and right much more flattened (eccentric) than in the past.

Since we have become "masters at home," since Canada's federal system gives substantial autonomy and already we have been able to expand through our initiatives, we had the opportunity to choose a model company and the experiment. It is therefore not surprising that people critical of our society's choices are now offering different avenues. Being masters at home, it also manage our own failures and our own dissensions.

The balkanization of the electorate is therefore an indirect but undeniable, from our grip. External factors, such as the economic shift to the right is perceived in the West for a decade, are not strangers either. The collapse of ideologies of the extreme left of the 20th century has not finished pushing the pendulum to the right.

Finally, the consequences of the Quiet Revolution and the widespread acceleration of our lifestyle, coupled with expanded access to credit, stimulated "Cocooning" - "militant individualism" (pardon the oxymoron), finding some comfort rather materialistic. Under these conditions, our vision of society is simply torn between the individualism of "taxpayer" (ex-citizen) and the soft relativism imposed by the Charter of Rights and Freedoms.

It has emerged the sovereignty party Québec solidaire, which presents itself as a "second track" sovereignty ... well, maybe more a siding at the moment. What you should understand is that the ideology Socialist party is as alien to social democratic ideals of the Quiet Revolution, the sellout neoliberal currently imposed by the PLQ.

It would however not surprising that a libertarian separatist party to emerge. Libertarianism sees traditionally large states "bureaucratic" as enemies of individual freedom. They would therefore be tempted to support an approach sovereignty. With the ADQ

who glean the "right materialist" and QS gnawing the "left community," the PQ is sentenced to the center. However, our electoral base is not required to melt so fast. It is perhaps enough to "expand the center" by showing how moderate left and right can coexist in a social contract that is both flexible and responsible. In short, more than ever we need to rehabilitate the Quebec Model, in an updated version.

It is clear that the collapse of ideologies in Quebec will be more acute than follow societal debates, not two but three main ideological socialism versus neo-liberalism, conservatism versus social liberalism, independence versus integration in Canada. There are still many niche green "to occupy space in ideologies. And it bodes very badly.

The British parliamentary model, based perhaps on a conception of Manichean good and evil, implies the existence of two opposing political parties only. This in turn requires bipartisanship that there are only two possible answers to every moral issue and that a third way is likely similar to one of two polarities already defined. It is also not surprising that even in a presidential system like the United States, the British parliamentary heritage is firmly anchored bipartisanship.

In fact, such a model accommodates the presence of third parties only if they are marginal. I'm not surprised that Canadian political analysts have said very seriously the disappearance of one of the three major parties in Quebec with such "exclusion principle" is swimming fast quantum physics (or Darwinism in politics)!

What about a model that allows for dual minority head of state? A party can take power with less than 50% of elected members, representing less than 50% of citizens?

This model not only of the PQ government would take power under conditions not allowing sovereignty (since minority negates the legitimacy of such a project) ... but it could very well develop into a reverse situation, where several parties joined separatists a large majority of the population, but are unable to get elected or to advance their common project (since it is not side splitting federalist). One comes to expect the return of the Equality Party!

A logical conclusion to this "paradox parliamentary" is that The PQ should instead focus its efforts toward political reform of the electoral law and the structure of government, even before embarking on an episode referendum. This great social project would precede the sovereignty, rather than be the consequence. Coalition governments are essential to the survival of the sovereignty project! I'll post the details of such a project in my blog as soon as possible.

4. ON THE RISKS ASSOCIATED WITH THE APPROACH OF MR TURP

Mr. Daniel Turp deposit in the National Assembly, May 17, its draft Constitution of Quebec. I welcome the initiative of this great ruler, which I always appreciate the intellectual rigor.

However, I wonder if it really is a good time to make this gesture. Currently, and especially because of the weak leadership of the PQ and the results of recent elections, Mario Dumont (a potential ally in this case) really has not been kind to our party. In politics, for developing the "manly friendship" should be hit hard, then socialize. Ms. Marois is not yet installed at the head of the PQ has not yet established a dialogue with Dumont, did not find common ground with the ADQ and has not negotiated truce policy (essential to get such projects). The Constitution of

Mr. Turp, and dropped in a pasture, could be eating all round by the other parties. Worse, there may be recovery of text from other parties, purification of the Constitution and abuse of text to a version insignificant or subordinate to federalism. And the PQ can not do anything, confined to his position of third-party.

One reason for this very bad timing of this outburst is perhaps the fear of the QP to be pushed around more during the upcoming elections. Or, Mr. Turp sees this project as his "swan song". I can understand, however, that the PQ sees the need to present a text BEFORE the other parties do not steal the initiative. But we saw what it gave to Ottawa with the "Quebec nation", the Bloc was overtaken by Harper and could do nothing thereafter. The motion that the Bloc was preparing disappeared into the ether .... parliamentary This is what happens when you throw the "-balloon" while we are at a disadvantage.

I myself have doubts about the advisability of bringing a project as fundamental to the identity and the future of Quebec at a time when the PQ is virtually without a head, in situation history of weakness, and very small. I'm not sure we will draw our Getting ahead of the game will remember us by Jean Charest, in the history books as "this great Quebec nationalist ( sic) and Canada, which gave Quebec constitution honorable (sic re- ), with the support of the ADQ and the PQ despite protests ?

It still remains that we must do everything in our power, even in opposition, even as third-party for the Quebec nation advance. Even if only to rouse nationalism struggling to assert itself over the past decade. I salute the courage of Mr. Turp, who took a huge political risk by depositing its draft Constitution. Hopefully the rest of the PQ and especially Ms. Marois, would support this project and will defend against attempts to hijack. Ultimately, it will ask the people to decide. The final content of such a document is not decided behind closed doors between politicians, but with the people as a guide.

5. ON THE BACK OF THE NATIONAL CONSENSUS

We are living a unique moment in the history of Quebec, where two-thirds of the deputies elected to the Assembly National are either autonomous or separatists. They should put their differences aside and decide to join forces temporarily to that, politically at least, Quebec to be a big step forward. Left to put aside our economic ideologies, both left of center, center-right or right-to-libertarian flavor. "

is a moment that will not last forever. Quebec has missed some great opportunities to enjoy national consensus, for example in 1990-1992 (between Meech and Charlottetown). It is this "national failure" lamentable QLP Bourassa precipitated the creation of the ADQ, let us remember.

We could do a long way together. Reform through some of the state. Dust the Allaire report and wonder why we have so miserably failed in our attempts to recover the national powers that are rightfully ours (and legitimacy). We adopt a constitution (and not an ersatz symbolic constitution sauce Charest). Rocking the Lieutenant Governor in the gutter of history. Ownership of the exclusive power to levy taxes. Etc..

Together, the nationalists of the PQ and the ADQ could do great things. In 1995, Mr. Dumont was in the "Change Team". I do not see this as a contradiction, quite the contrary. The margin between the sovereignty-association and the 22 points of the Allaire report is extremely thin. Between the idea of a "broad autonomy" and that of a "satellite sovereignty," it is mainly the method that differs. The question in both cases, events and consistent pursuit of our legitimate self-determination.

6. ON TWO PARADOXES OF IDEOLOGICAL ADQ

When you think about it, there there is a very thin margin between sovereignty-association and the 22 points of the Allaire report.

If you want to work with the ADQ, refill activists and elected officials before their founding document. Currently, many ADQ are defined primarily in opposition to the PQ, an attitude which is frankly childish as for me. Other activists ADQ identify themselves primarily in neo-liberal discourse and the ADQ represents for them a comfortable political identity. But they are not ideologues, much less constitutional - they are neo-liberals who are primarily interested in economic doctrine of the party, and use only autonomism to combat the ideology sovereignty. This is the first ideological paradox of the ADQ.

short, it would suffice to teach the Allaire report ADQ and the true nature of the way of autonomy, so they soften slightly. The end of the honeymoon Parliamentary risk to calm a little, Dumont can now make gaffes that have real consequences, which was not previously the case.

If one considers that the ADQ is still his political vision and constitutional in the wake of the report Allaire (What some activists have openly denied, rogues), then any serious application of the program would lead Quebec to the following situation:
  1. irremediable opposition to the ideals promoted by the Liberal Party and the federalist doctrine generally
  2. a game Constitutional very hard, which would position Dumont and Harper
  3. antagonist actions of breaks affecting both the Quebec and Ottawa reports that the state structure Quebec
  4. an alliance vital, even indispensable, with the separatists and nationalists with some Liberals

can therefore be considered if Dumont had the courage of his convictions (or program), it follows a typical Quebec psychodrama as we've rarely seen. The ADQ believe they have in their hands a firecracker equivalent to the Beige Book Claude Ryan (nationalist petrified). In fact, they carry around in their pockets parka a real atomic bomb greyée a sash, the Allaire Report . What is absurd is to see the ADQ adopt a discourse "beige", while maintaining a party program "Allaire". This is the second ideological paradox of the ADQ. The best

way to force the ADQ to play our game would be to boost his nationalist activists (a significant part of this party) in the bombing of arguments by Allaire and autonomy in their education accelerated. Dumont would put in an impossible situation and force him to leave his lair Constitution (very cozy). This would also cause an unmanageable tension between the ADQ and the ADQ autonomy neo-liberals.

Sunday, May 13, 2007

6v Lead Acid Battery Charger Circuit Diagram

March 12 2007, I sent a letter to Andre Boisclair ...

BACKGROUND

the middle of the campaign, my soul was suddenly awakened sovereignty activist. It was clear that the PQ was moving towards a historic defeat, although some still believed in the possibility of a PQ minority government. I wish I was as optimistic, but I had long felt that the ADQ was ripe for a meteoric rise in ratings. However, at this point, we do not openly asserted ADQ, as I wrote before, be ADQ was a bit like having a venereal disease. The polls were obviously biased ... PQ strongholds voters (Lanaudière, for example) who were preparing to "go across" kept a low profile.

what to do in this context, since my contact with the PQ was rather sporadic (some conversations with the candidates of Rimouski and Matane, a few emails exchanged with a militant MES, etc.). How to share my concerns to the party, without the filtering of information does the damping. When the individual opinions of activists and supporters of a political party like the PQ reach the summit is in the form of an indistinct murmur. "Ah," they told themselves, rubbing their hands, "Voters are showing interest in politics. So they will vote. "Selective listening to annihilate all forms completed dialog between the base and summit.

March 11 at night, so I decided to write a letter that would take the form of a short memory, hoping that this format would have more impact than a simple email. Maybe I could send it by fax, but my fiber technology whispered to send this document by email attachment, in the office of Mr. Boisclair, directly.

This small article is intended as a vehicle to voice my concerns, common to many activists that time, and to advance proposals that had received absolutely no consideration on the part of candidates and elected which I had slipped a word. Inventing a maxim in this regard: "In contemplating his own shadow too, it is not come overnight."

proposals, therefore, in bulk. But ideas quite compatible with the PQ platform, with the advantage of having a human dimension to represent a tangible reality. I could send 100 ideas, I have long lists, but I decided to limit myself to ten. It is easy, when appropriate, to exploit a vein of interest or surprise his political opponent. Practical sense - that is what is lacking in PQ!

So I just sent this letter before the federal budget, hoping that develops between the PQ-time parade, distributed, an original idea to take the political initiative. I was wrong, of course - nothing has changed and we lost the election.

So I reproduce here exactly 2 months later and without changing a comma in place, this famous letter and terse response received from the office of Mr. Boisclair. (Note that I removed two paragraphs of the letter, for reasons I'll explain later perhaps.)

EXCERPTS FROM THE LETTER OF MARCH 12

TITLE: A MODEST PROPOSAL FOR THE HELP IN HIS CAMPAIGN PQ

If we rely on the projected image in the media (which is the only truly reach the electorate not militant) , the Parti Quebecois and the sovereignty movement have long lost the initiative in this great chess game being played in Quebec for over 30 years. Have we lost the ability to surprise our political opponents, even to shock them, taking initiatives and putting the ROC to the "fait accompli"? Still, that will always follow the same path, to provide the same arguments, we give our opponents (richer, more numerous and more visible, and favored by the force of inertia of the status quo ) opportunities undreamed of us cut the grass underfoot. Our predictability weakens us. The initiative (empty of meaning and consequences) of the Harper government on the "Quebec nation" is the latest example.

The "season of ideas" and similar initiatives have, it seems, not enough to restore the balance of power and restore the initiative to troops separatists. It seems that the troops separatists have difficulty in bringing debate on land that would be more favorable, more fertile.

It is clear that the National Assembly has lost power since 1982. The repatriation of the constitution gave the federal troops while a legal framework enabling them to fight, so always justifiable, Quebec identity and our desire for emancipation. The world's two great waves of decolonization (1960s in Africa and Asia; 1990s in Eastern Europe) are over and we could not seize them. Quebecers were not ready, or they failed to win in an arena politics dominated by Anglo-Saxon tradition which too often eludes us still. We do not yet mastered the playing field on which our collective future.

The PQ has always been a coalition party made up of small groups with often conflicting ideas. Domination by particular groups may have influenced the official policy (ranging from the affirmationnisme PM Johnson to "winning conditions" by B. Landry, through the boldness of "sovereignty-negotiation" to J. Parizeau ). However, it is unfortunate that the tightness of the internal PQ do too often in broad daylight; internal divisions should be discreet. Thus the media federalists lose no opportunity to explain how we approach the "civic" Mr. Boisclair seems to collide with the desire for a referendum "as soon as possible" the activist base of the PQ. Obviously, the party is more united than in this cartoon repeated in the media, but how to explain it to people?

There are obviously many approaches that lead to the sovereignty, and these do not necessarily pass through a referendum "as soon as possible." This approach is not the only one that can satisfy the electorate sovereignty. There are also within the PQ, groups that offer different approaches, such as MES, which prefers an approach based on the actions of sovereignty upon taking power. This approach has the merit of advancing the Quebec event of a referendum defeat or outright cancellation of the referendum (if it becomes clear that defeat is inevitable), Quebec will have progressed significantly. It's also such actions as the PQ has raised since his election in 1976, Quebec has been transformed in a sustainable manner.

This approach, a form of steps to the Norwegian, however, the failure to force the PQ government to be a "good government" for one term (or more). Should a referendum late, people would vote based on the quality or popularity, the PQ government (and not according to his real desire sovereignty). We know government is not always a very popular mid-term, and must often take unpopular measures.

It is interesting to note that the Norwegians have made gestures of sovereignty for decades before harvest, peacefully and without equivocation, their independence. It is a model that leads to reflection, but that will not change much in the present, since the PQ is going to at best a minority government, the worst towards defeat. From the perspective of a minority government or coalition, the PQ will have to set aside any referendum and work with the ADQ and QS in a much more autonomist perspective. The ideas presented later in this document are also quite compatible with such a situation. They can reshape the Quebec, transform, move it forward.

But if I wrote this short document, however, because a threat far more real, more immediate, looming on the horizon.

CONTEXT: THE FILING OF FEDERAL BUDGET FOR 2007

Everyone is aware that the Harper government has decided to blatantly interfere in the current Quebec election campaign choosing to submit its budget one week before the vote. This choice has consequences. Opposition parties, including the PQ will have less than a week to respond. As always, the PQ will be indignant at this budget criticize certain points, and say that Quebec would be better off if it were independent. All this is immensely predictable political opponents know, the citizens know, the media federalists know. Their arguments are cons-purpose loans and our critics will likely result greeted with indifference of habit.

He is also obvious that Jean Charest, even if he keeps publicly distanced himself from the Harper government is in constant contact with it and negotiate in secret "ammunition" policies. Let us not be surprised if, after the budget, Harper offers Charest a "partial solution" to the fiscal imbalance, together with a "response" into cash to Charest's demands. All this bodes badly for the PQ.

Having coaxed Quebecers, after showing that Harper can "meet" Charest government (with monetary carrots and sticks election), then nothing will stop this duo for Fox to start a discussion Constitution leading to the signing of the 1982 Constitution, citizens may accept without flinching. It will be recalled that the Meech Lake Accord was popular more than 60% in Quebec a few weeks before its sinking, and if the population is sufficiently "softened" by a political scientist tango, the coffin of Quebec could be drive another nail.

A PARADE TO BE OFFENSIVE announced federal

Despite the progress of the campaign, we have the opportunity to regain the initiative. Simply act more quickly and more vividly than the couple Charest-Harper.

The agenda for each political party is, of course, published before each election and it goes well with the platform election as such. All this makes the country relatively predictable, but the record contains many generalities, we ask candidates to deepen, to illustrate with concrete examples, to quantify. Similarly, the political and social landscape never ceases to evolve during a campaign, which offers candidates the opportunity to differentiate themselves by reacting to situations, we need only think of Dumont, who seized on the rebound Hérouxville the ball (with varying degrees of dexterity).

order to surprise and even shock our opponent, he must get out of ruts of that campaign, unfortunately too predictable, and occupy the media space. How? By launching a series of proposals totally unexpected from the PQ. Above all, it is important to initiate proposals EVE (or the day before) of the budget, so that the debate is already started when Harper will introduce its paper and recite his prepared speech which Of course, praise the Charest government while demonizing the PQ and the separatists.

Thus, it would be a way to "steal the show" or if you'll pardon the expression, "red herring" (that fish eel in question is Harper or Charest carp). I am not talking to the media to present a version of the program chewed PQ, or to make empty promises or too general, but to hit where the other political parties in Quebec do not expect it. I have prepared here a list of 10 proposals that could achieve the desired effect. The "posture" policies vary from "good government" (center-left) to step to the Norwegian or autonomy in the immediate (ie, acts of sovereignty), history of undercut the foot of the other parties. It should also be provide an exit event of the absence of conditions for winning a referendum.

The proposals cover the following topics: the future of Quebec, the fiscal imbalance, regions, resources, transportation, seniors, youth, society, environment, aboriginal, agriculture . I did not include hospitals (or health) in this list because it is an area where it is too easy to return an argument or to demolish it to number-crunching. Similarly, Mount Orford and reasonable accommodation should not be mentioned explicitly, as it is subjects sharp and too controversial.

TEN THEMES TEN PROPOSALS

FISCAL IMBALANCE

Consultation with the ADQ and QS to pass a law initiating the repatriation of exclusive power to levy taxes in Quebec (for the good people of Quebec and to enable us to better manage our wealth, all these parties will agree!). Taxes are a skill that Quebec can capture an exclusive! Creating the post of Ministry of taxes "to manage the lump sum Annual Ottawa from Quebec. Draft a policy to protect provincial jurisdiction and exclusive jurisdiction of Quebec.

Explanation: This is the most controversial proposal of the lot, and the cornerstone of this tactic. The taxing power of the provinces is provided in the constitution of 1867, but there are probably ambiguity when considering federal legislation passed during and after the Second World War. You have to play on this ambiguity, and also the popularity of such a measure among the citizens (who will eventually get tired of meeting two tax returns ... which could eventually remove the declaration of Quebec). A Quebec that arises as an intermediary between its citizens and Ottawa for tax issues has positioned itself firmly on a path sovereignty over the medium term. Note that this idea has already been presented by various parties, including the ADQ.

PROSPERITY OF THE REGION CONTACTS

a) Starting a program regional and municipal fees based on kwH production facilities. Municipalities that have plants on their territory will receive fees directly from the amount of electricity generated.

b) Raise a tax on long distance transport of raw materials , which will promote the implementation of the first and second local processing, rather than thousands of miles.

Explanation: The proposal is not new. But it is essential that municipalities directly benefit from the dams or wind turbines installed on their territory. Otherwise, municipalities are right to challenge energy development if it "operates" without enriching their region. Bas-Saint-Laurent and Gaspésie There has been raising a shield against the wind projects. As for the thorny issue of local processing, we recently saw a draft of wood processing gaspésien become the issue of heated debate in Gaspé.

FUTURE OF QUEBEC

Announce Estates General on the future of Quebec with the Bloc , the ADQ and QS on a joint declaration on the right to self-determination of Quebec. Consultation with other parties or separatist separatists, to harmonize the actions of sovereignty and autonomy, we must join forces to that Quebec advance! Before any popular consultation, advance Quebec, like the PQ has done since his election in 1976. Passage of a law similar to Act 99, including a clause on the right to self-determination and the predominance of international law over any "Clarity Act".

Explanation: By launching a pole to the other parties or separatist separatists, we are double winners. On the one hand, by dangling a common front, we prepare citizens in a coalition government, or at least, an approach that would include a majority of Quebecers and their elected representatives. This allow the PQ government to move quickly to flavor many laws autonomy or sovereignty. Secondly, a party who is willing to work with other parties present a unifying picture for the population, while recovering a portion of the electorate of these other parties. Quebec Solidarity and the ADQ will certainly not disdain to be offered during the floor debates on the future of Quebec (see the proposals on the fiscal imbalance and the environment).

TRANSPORT

[NOTE: Paragraph confidential]

SENIORS

Create MVC ( Living Centers for Seniors ): a program for health facilities and accommodation for the frail elderly or non-independent, with fee subsidies and controlled prices. With seats booked by region, it will give us a management system similar to the CPE. The plan would also include incentives for the creation of micro- centers for seniors.

Explanation: Why not have thought of it sooner? Our elders are vulnerable and there is currently no comprehensive management / regional places in nursing homes. The model CPE is ideal, but it is obviously necessary to avoid, in the speech, the direct comparison of elderly and children!

YOUNG

Provide tax credit declining (eg 100%, 80%, 60%, 40%, 20%) over 5 years to graduate starting on labor market (all post-secondary degrees) as long as they remain in Québec during that period.

Explanation: This type of program is ideal because it encourages young professionals (eg doctors) to stay at Quebec, and it is even more enticing than the wages of young workers graduates are high. By reducing the number of bankruptcies among graduates, and reducing the brain drain, this project will likely be profitable.

AGRICULTURE

Announcing a new agricultural policy based on food self-sufficiency Quebec (ie, Quebec must be able to feed all its citizens in the event of a major crisis that threatens the supplies, such as avian influenza or an oil crisis). This program will reassess the actual needs Quebec and redefine the quotas and subsidies as a purely Quebec.

Explanation: The Canadian agricultural policies are an impediment to Quebec producers. This project, while responding to real concerns, initiate a discussion on the importance of our food production, while restoring our power over our quota and justifying our decisions.

COMPANY

[NOTE: Paragraph confidential]

ENVIRONMENT AND KYOTO

Electricity is our greatest asset, own wealth and that is a plus. We will begin the repurchase of Quebec railways, electrification of railways and the establishment of a network Quebec intermunicipal transport electrified, which will effectively clean and very affordable. This network will also carry the goods along the axis of the St. Lawrence, which will reduce traffic and pollution in the sea, while ensuring the development of ports in eastern Quebec. This conveyance will also reduce the cost of transporting commodities. We will also assess the establishment of tramlines or electric bus for local transportation in the 6 largest urban centers in Quebec.

Explanation: Half the railway network in Quebec is not for federal corporations, so it is possible to "nationalize" or the umbrella. An agreement with Hydro-Quebec R & D and economic benefits in most cities, make this project interesting. This is one of the few projects that have both high economic potential and very positive impact on the environment. Do not forget that appropriate track is breaking the backbone of Canada (sort of).

ABORIGINAL

Passage of a law recognizing the importance of each of the 11 indigenous peoples of Quebec (as well as mixed) and their participation as a founding people, the Quebec nation. Announcement of a round of negotiations with individual people, special status (autonomous municipality, territory Nitassinan style, etc.. Offering increase any existing statute with Ottawa in the form of a bipartisan agreement with Quebec and a strong definition entrenched in the Quebec constitution.

[NOTE: a 2-page accompanying this proposal]

EXCERPTS FROM RESPONSE

Sir

On behalf of the Parti Quebecois, we acknowledge your email of 13 March last and document that accompanied it.

Thank you for your "modest contribution", which is actually a reflection paper like the concerns of our members. Your themes and the solutions you proposed are mostly complete objectives of the Parti Quebecois.

In For example, we deplore any way you filing a federal budget during the election campaign in Quebec. We also attach great importance to the fiscal imbalance. It seems however difficult to repatriate Quebec exclusive powers to raise taxes without the same time achieve our sovereignty.

Moreover, as regards the regions resources and respect Kyoto Protocol, the Parti Quebecois has made strong commitments to revitalize the regional economy and revolutionizing the world of transport.

Finally, let us remember that Quebec is at the forefront in recognition of indigenous rights. In 1985, the government of Rene Levesque acknowledged 11 nations in Quebec. They are alive and well today growing demographic, not to mention that they share with us a immense territory.

A Parti Québécois government will therefore continue on this path and, like the government of Bernard Landry, who signed with the Braves the Crees of Quebec In 2001, we strengthen the bonds that unite First Nations and the Quebec nation.

Please accept, Sir, to express our feelings more respectful.

(SIGNATURE)