Mr Harper made light of Mr Trudeau's recent action of removing ALL Liberal Senators from caucus. "They have gone from being unelected Liberal Senators to unelected Senators who happen to be Liberal." derided Mr Harper in the House. His suggestion was that this was a distinction without a difference but in that, he is quite incorrect.
Being outside caucus and not beholden to the leader of the party frees these members of the Upper Chamber to exercise their privileges and prerogatives without encumbrance or outside direction. While they never technically answered to the leader there was certainly pressure from time to time on Senators to carry out the wishes of the Centre. This is more true of the Conservative Senators who dare not cross the PM, but Liberals are hardly innocent.
This is not to say that there will be a remarkable change of attitude or action in the Senate on the part of these now Independent Senators since their hearts and minds have always had liberal (and hence Liberal) leanings on the national issues of the economy and social justice, for instance. No matter how or why people find their way to the Senate they will bring with them their political leanings, even if they don't have official membership in one of Canada's many political parties.
Mr Trudeau has also indicated that, if it were up to him, the PM would no longer be the sole arbiter of who enter the Red Chamber. Instead, an independent and transparent group, not necessarily consisting of elected folks but perhaps citizens of note, will review and appoint new members. This is about as much as can be done without a Constitutional amendment. It isn't enough for some and too much for others. It may not be perfect but it stands a very good chance of removing the patronage aspect of appointments. We may in fact see Senators who were picked for their demonstrated ability to analyze and reflect on the proposals of the government of the day rather than as a reward for bag men and political cronies who then owe a duty to their party.
Personally, that sounds even better than electing Senators, but that's me. I remain open minded on that one.
Mr Harper would like us to believe this is a non-event. More likely it is big move in a very good direction.
"Cry havoc and let slip the dogs of war"?
NDITF
