A newly minted P.E.I. Senator remains unapologetic for suggesting that Premier Robert Ghiz may get the “shaft’’ by getting in bed with the premier of Newfoundland and Labrador and that the sight of two politicians in bed is “ . . . a grotesque scene.’’
Mike Duffy first made the comments during the provincial Progressive Conservative party’s annual meeting Saturday in Winsloe. He repeated the comments, using slightly different language, in the Senate Tuesday.
“I was disappointed to see that our dynamic young premier in Prince Edward Island, Robert Ghiz, has climbed into bed with the premier of Newfoundland and Labrador and honourable senators know what a grotesque scene that is,’’ Duffy said in the Senate.
“Do honourable senators know what happens when two politicians climb into bed together? One of them comes out on top and I am afraid that when one is in bed with Danny Williams he will come out on top and I would hate to see where that will leave P.E.I. in the end.’’
During the Conservatives annual meeting, Duffy used stronger language suggesting that when “two men’’ get in bed, “one is going to get the shaft.’’
He went on to say, “And I can assure you it won’t be Danny Williams.’’
Some in the crowd reacted with a mix of mild laughter and muted applause, while others did not laugh or applaud at all.
Contacted Wednesday, Duffy stood by his comments and his humour.
“I think people are pretty easily offended if they’re offended by that,’’ Duffy said in a telephone interview from Ottawa.
“I was trying to be humourous and paint a graphic picture of the power relationship. Newfoundland has oil and billions of dollars and P.E.I. has our goodwill and our good relations.
“To get into some kind of alliance with a guy who’s widely seen as a bully is just foolish.’’
Both Ghiz and Williams have called on the federal government to delay any changes in the equalization program for a year, arguing that it’s wrong to make changes to the federal transfer during an economic recession.
The Island government contends a new cap on equalization could cost the province up to $20 million annually.
Duffy’s comments set off a political firestorm in two provinces. Ghiz called Duffy’s comments disappointing and called the senator ill-informed.
“Mike Duffy said he wanted to be a senator from Prince Edward Island. I would hope that he would act like one,’’ said Ghiz.
“I just wish that perhaps Mr. Duffy, as a senator for Prince Edward Island, would stop wasting time with petty partisanship and look at the big picture and what we can do to improve Prince Edward Island in the long run.’’
Ghiz said he has a good working relationship with Prime Minister Stephen Harper and the prime minister understands that he’s simply standing up for his province.
“If Mr. Duffy took the time to review the changes that were made to equalization, he would understand that Prince Edward Island is going to be losing millions of dollars.’’
In Newfoundland, Williams said Duffy’s comments certainly were not the kind of language one would expect to hear in the Senate.
“But obviously Senator Duffy was given his marching orders. We’ve seen the nasty, vindictive type of mentality of Stephen Harper and (Jim) Flaherty,’’ said Williams.
“Robert Ghiz happens to be a very good premier and a very good leader who is obviously prepared to speak out on principle on behalf of his province and that’s exactly what he’s done. And I think now that he’s had the gumption and the political intestinal fortitude to speak out in support of his province, which has lost some money in equalization, they’re now trying to disparage him by a smear and trying to pretend that there is some alliance between myself and Robert Ghiz.
“That wouldn’t be fair to Robert Ghiz or to myself to indicate that that is happening. But if, as leaders of our province, we feel we have to speak out then the last I knew Canada was a democracy and we’re entitled to speak out.’’
The issue of Duffy’s remarks came up in the Senate Wednesday with Liberal Senator Joan Cook asking Conservative Senator Marjory LeBreton, the leader of the government in the Senate, whether she condoned the comments made by the P.E.I. senator.
Ghiz said Harper broke a deal with the provinces when it comes to federal equalization transfers.
“Two years ago a new equalization deal was signed. Unilaterally, before Christmas, that deal was broken.’’
(With files by The St. John’s Telegram/Transcontinental Media)
Just the facts: P.E.I. Senator Mike Duffy caused a political firestorm with his maiden speech in the Senate Tuesday. But it wasn’t isolated to concerns he raised about Premier Robert Ghiz and Newfoundland Premier Danny Williams and their stand on equalization.
— In his address, he urged senators to “... ignore the nattering nabobs of negativism on the East Coast,” a direct reference to a speech given by U.S. Vice-President Spiro T. Agnew, who served under Richard Nixon until resigning in October 1974 after pleading no contest to charges of tax fraud;
— Ironically, Agnew was talking about the media when he made the comment;
— Duffy also got in trouble for using his BlackBerry in the Senate. He referred to it during his speech after Mary McQuaid, his P.E.I. staffer, emailed him during his address.
— The rules say no electronic device that produces sound is allowed. Up until now, BlackBerrys, even on vibrate, have not been allowed but that rule is about to be relaxed.
— Duffy was known to refer to his BlackBerry, even on the air while at CTV.
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JustWonderin' from PE writes: Our newest non-resident senator should remember that he is supposed to represent PEI, not the PM, when speaking in public or in the Senate chambers. Remarks like that will win him no allies in the political world of a small province, irregardless of your political stripes.
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Northsider from PE writes: The PUFFSTER is doing nothing less than reflecting his honourable leader's attitude to anyone who opposes his party line. Mr. Harper is a vindictive man, and Mr. Ghiz will no doubt feel his wrath. For me, Mr. Ghiz was right to take the action he did...he's voicing PEI's legitimate concern about transfer payments.
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BUDDY from P.E.I. writes: LOOKS TO ME THAT MIKE DUFFY IS IN BED WITH STEVIE HARPER...ONLY TIME WILL TELL WHO GETS THE SHAFT AND WHO WILL COME OUT ON TOP!!!
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scott from pei writes: danny williams is a bully?
all he has done is stick up for nfld, and if harper doesnt like it too bad. perhaps he should stick with the deals he made.
mike duffy is nothing but a has been, wo shouldnt even be a senator. had he not slanted news towards the conservatives he'd still be at ctv news where and stuffing food in his face.
hopefully danny williams will mentor robert ghiz into how to get more for pei.
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sadfromaway from PEI writes: While reading the guardian this morning online...I was saddened to hear the comments made by our new senator, Mike Duffy. I find his remarks to be offensive....to me, to gay persons, to all Canadians and Islanders. The comment made was beyond ignorant! I have lost alot of respect for our newly crowned senator. Go back to CTV!
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A real clown from charlottetown, pei writes: I guess we now have a real clown, with no class whatsoever, getting a huge salary for doing absolutely nothing. Way to go Duffer! His comments were rude and totally uncalled for by a Senator that doesn't even have the good grace to live in the province he supposedly represents. I've lived all my life in Charlottetown and never saw or met the guy around anywhere. A real joke that funny guy mike duffer.
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interesting from pe writes: Mike Duffy has loads of experience and might well be in the interest of Ghiz to colleaberate with him,might learn something.Mr. Duffy knows his way around and don't take that comment literally, look at the message
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D.J. from P.E.I. writes: It is quite obvious now that Mike Duffy has been in bed with Steven Harper long before the Senate Appointment. Instead of speaking out in favor of Islanders , Duffy is Towing Steven Harper's Rope. Looks like all Islanders are getting the Shaft from Mike and Steve and will continue to do so.
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OLDDUFF from pe writes: What an idiot!! First he claims hes from P.E.I. when he lived here 2 months of the year. Now He's bashing the premier? Nice choice for an island Senator!! They must not have much to pick from on that side of the table....Whats for lunch Duff???
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bruce v from rustico, pei writes: All right Duffy. Why not just insult all Islanders while you're at it, Mr. Ghiz is after all our Premier. I didn't vote for the guy, but at least he was elected by somebody. In the case of Mr. Duffy the only one he got a vote from was Steve Harper, his political bed-mate. Not hard to see who's doing what to whom as a result of that happy conjugation.
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Quiet Observer from Charlottetown, PEI writes: While I may agree with the point Duffy was trying to make, I would hope that in the future he will show the class and dignity befitting a representative of PEI in Ottawa.
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south side fisher from montague, p.e.i. writes: What else would you expect from the likes of him...He,s not even from p.e.i...just a harper wanna be making way to much money...
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Clarkin Anne Marie from North Wiltshire, P.E.I. writes: Mr. Senator Duffy shame on you, your comments are an embarressment to all P.E. Islanders, too bad the senet seats are given and not earned.
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citizen from Island writes: Grow up Duffy.
I am not a fan of Robert Ghiz thus far but I am with him on this.
Smarten up Mr Duffy. Its just not funny.
And its inflammatory.
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Careful what you wish for from Charlottetown writes: So Harper changes equalization and it is going to cost the Province millions. Just yesterday 3 Charlottetown area mayors welcomed a change to fully fund their equalization program. That can only mean the Province had NOT been fully funding it before. And what did it cost the 3 municipalities? $40 million in other cutbacks, at a time when Provincial property taxes in Charlottetown tripled!? Can't wait to see how Harper screws over Ghiz if their equaliztion program gets fully funded...
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Steve Harper from PEI writes: Duff- a class act and a credit to have in the Senate!
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KingStreetWestEnder from NS writes: This is too pathetic to comment on -The honourable senator from Ottawa Mike Duffy speaks for all Islanders. Be Proud ! Not too Proud though.
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mj pit bull from pe writes: what a gross remark from mr duffy a weird stupid comment comming from our new pei senitor apolgise to pei you are smarter than that dont you think/????????
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Get Over It from PE writes: Oh lighten up! We all need a laugh with all the depressing news every time we read the news. Robert really should think before he gets too close to Williams. Don't forget Newfoundland is rolling in oil...PEI ain't!
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Intelligence from PEI writes: Mr. Duffy, your intelligence is showing ! And we thought Harper had made a mistake appointing you.
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Brian Wilkins from Dartmouth, NS writes: Oh please puffy duffy, Islanders deserve better than this. Why didn't you stay in Ottawa. Did anyone, other than a desperate Stephen Harper, want you as a CFA (come from away) senator, Oh yes, maybe a couple of restaurants.
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Grace Gower from St. Andrews, NB writes: Duffy unplugged! I love it! Go Duff go!!
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wondering about it from pei writes: Lighten up. I think it was funny and got the point across about Danny Williams who everyone knows is blunt to the point of being obnoxious. But thats OK, we need more colourful people in public life who speak their mind without the national sick obsession with political correctness.
Give me more people like John Crosby, Ed Whelan, Ron MacKinley, Will Rogers, Sheila Copps etc in public life, keeps things interesting.
And incidentally Mike Duffy would laugh his head off about comments of his eating habits.
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ben barr from cornwall, pei writes: when you get in bed with a mid east dictator ie williams, when oil goes to the head before any thoughts to helping Canada get better, you are courting a big, big fall.
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About Time from Chtown, PEI writes: About time a senator finally does something. Yes he had to resort to a not so nice metaphor but he knew it would attract attention to the problem of Ghiz being with Williams and the problems it will cause PEI in the long run.
Now he could of made a speech of just boring rhetoric but if he done that like so many other senators before him little to no attention would have been given to Ghiz/Williams. I for one think Duffy was/is right about the alliance of Ghiz and Williams and although he could have left the shaft part out his speech got its desired audience.
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someonewhoknows from pei writes: I wondered why Mike Duffy would accept an appointment to senate. All is now revealed. Stephen Harper wanted a puppet to spout his rhetoric unencumbered by the worry of being offensive or the fury of the electors.
Mike Duffy used to be a respected political commentator. He has lost that distinction and became Stephen Harpers hand puppet.
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Durward from Coquitlam, BC writes: Right on Duffy, call it as you see it and to hell with the super politically correct wastes of taxpayer dollars that sit with you.
Danny Williams is a blight on Canada.
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East Prince Resident from PEI writes: I don't care if you're a Liberal or a Conservative, this type of innuendo does not belong in the Senate. Surely Mr Duffy, as a writer and journalist, can come up with a better description than this semi-obscene, offensive remark. Try explaining this to your twelve your old at breakfast this morning!
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Brian Wilkins from Dartmouth, NS writes: What a shame that the economy is under pressure, tourism is suffering and then our desparate Prime Minister has to foist Puffy Duffy on the wonderful people of PEI. Stephen, get a life!
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Henry Bollingbroke from Ontario writes: Duffy asks why a premier would want to get into some kind of alliance with a guy who's considered a bully.
Hmm... which bully to choose... Harper or Williams?
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ironic from pe writes: Good ol' Guardian.. Censoring comments again.
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Non-Beliver From Charlottetown from P.E.I. writes: Clearly, I see this much different then most of the scribes here. Senator Duffy is quite right. With Premier Ghiz jumping in bed with Premier Williams we have become that much more isolated.
We should be asking ourselves, - what did Mr. Ghiz gain by this foolish act of his; what did PEI gain by this foolish act? If you can't come up with an intelligent answer to these two questions, then you know, we gained nothing.
Its time our Premier woke up and stood up for all Islanders and get rid of whoever is advising him.
It seems in Sen Duffy we have some who is going to speak up and be heard. Good for him.
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Megan from PE writes: I do not believe that his message was meant to be homophobic as some are claiming. I believe he was simply using a metaphor to describe Mr. Ghiz's jumping to defend Mr. Williams attack on Harper. Yes, it was rude and uncalled for, but as it is, it was just a metaphor to describe one's feelings toward the situation.
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Red Nex from PE writes: Duffy's comments, have given Robert Ghiz, some points, on the political scale.
Wrong move Duffy, I thought you'd be smarter than that.
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Cliff from PE writes: what a derogatory comment about large people, i as a large person take extreme offence to your fat person remark but i will not act like a child and make a derogatory comment about you. I will do the right thing and assume it was just a joke and not play the i'm a minority everyone hates me card just because i feel the need to drawn attention to myself because i am looking for attention, not everyone in society is out to get you so get over yourself.
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Peter from MB. writes: Does Robert Ghiz think that all the other provinces should be taking a haircut i equalization payments but not PEI. Show some leadership and quit biting the hand that feeds you. You got a lot more MP's and Senators per capita than other provinces or you deserve - I don't see Ghiz being a hero and cutting back or offering to cut back in fairness to other provinces representation. How is he doing i equalization payments - anybody want to guess. Time for him to learn that there are other Canadians that are footing the bill and be fair to them.
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Don't believe the Hype from PE writes: Duffy is not as dumb as many people seem to think. Read all the comments, he accomplished exactly what he set out to do. All the people who are attacking Duffy are still accepting that Ghiz came to the defence of Williams. That is not what happened at all! Ghiz came out and called for the same delay in the change to the equalization because PEI was losing money. Ghiz is upset because PEI is losing millions, not because NL is losing anything. Ghiz was defending PEI, not jumping in bed with Danny.
Duffy just commited a perfect example of political framing. He could not attact the message, so he painted the messenger in an unflatering light so the message would be lost.
The question is, what is Duffy, the PEI senator doing to promote PEI and ensure PEI does not lose any money over these changes? Ghiz is calling for the funding to be restored. What is Mike doing?
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Confused from PEI writes: I have to say that I admire people like Danny Williams (much like Joey Smallwood) who stand up to the real bullies. If Robert Ghiz has learned a lesson from their actions, good on him. As for being in bed, who in politics is not in bed with someone. A good reason that nothing gets done is that they spend too much time in bed with too many people. I weas always of the opinion that a good journalist had to be partisan, I guess that was why I was never a Duffy fan.
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Mell from PE writes: The newly appointed Senator from PEI- is he really a resident?- does he really live here for the qualified six months?- that never came up when he was appointed- or did it???- anyway, his comments regarding a coalition between NFLD and PEI could have been put in a more professional manner for someone that is in the business of broadcasting, instead of slum language. Has the appointment of being a Senator gone to the head of Mike Duffy or is one of his grafts blocked and he is not getting enough oxygen to the brain??
Shame on you Mike Duffy!
If, in fact, the equalization payments are being cut drastically to provinces, then it is right that Premiers put up a fight for their province, and if it means siding with a bully, as Mr Duffy said, so be it. PEI does not have alot of income generating things going on outside of spuds and tugboat building.
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C. Little from PE writes: The real news here is that something a senator said made the paper! and it is not buried on page seven either. And here we all thought the Senate was a completely irrelevant anachronism.
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Mary Ryan from Mississauga, Ontario writes: Come on Islanders, smarten up you know Duffy is correct.
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Red Nex from PE writes: Its funny, everytime someone says the name Robert Ghiz , I immediately think of PNP.
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Jordan Paquet from PE writes: I think people should relax about this. As Duffy alluded to, its pretty sad when people can't take jokes as jokes. The article also doesn't mention that for the rest of his speech, the Senator did indeed make fun of himself and his weight. He actually spent more time making fun of himself than he did talking about this stupid issue. Lets face it, the guy has a sense of humour and isn't afraid to use it publicly - something that is often missing in politics.
As far as mild laughter and muted applause - I was under the impression that the room errupted with laughter, including from Mr. Thibodeau himself.
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John from Toronto, Ontario writes: Duffys' character was clearly exposed for his nasty role with the infamous Dion out-take interview on CTV . It ranks up there with McKays lack of integrity displayed during the conservative convention a few years ago .
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jim from pe writes: If he had said the same comments on his CTV show. All of you would have agreed.
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Keith from Tlell, B.C. writes: A perspective from one of the rocks on the other coast. Yes, Duffy's comments were rather tasteless for public consumption, but in reality, probably less so than what many of those screaming outrage say every day in private.
Newfoundland has a pretty prosperous economy these days, and I find is beginning to resemble Quebec all too closely now. That is, the teenager at midlife who never left the house and screams outrage when daddy even hints at closing his wallet. Time to grow up Danny.
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Misplaced humour from PEI writes: Misplaced humour, Mr. Mike Duffy, or humour at someone else's expense is classless and in poor taste.
Anyone in these posts that is actually laughing is of the same ilk.
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TA from pei, pei writes: Canadians elected a conservative government. If you want a kitten you don't buy an alligator then expect that alligator to behave like a kitten. I'm sick of all the spins. The libs caused a massive deficit budget then run around saying its Harpers budget and all his fault for putting us into deficit. Iggy, I don' trust you. You keep saying, this isn't about me and the Liberals its about Harper. Sorry, it's about you and possibly becoming the next PM. Duff you were out of line with those comments. Apologize and get on with your job. Its amazing how much print can be generated when one isn't politically correct.
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Herr Denken from PEI writes: Well done Mr Duffy...you have exposed this unholy alliance for what it is.
Does anyone really think that Ghiz Jnr can play with the loud mouth bully from the Rock?
PEI will get dropped and their lunch stolen if Ghiz doesn't act as Danny's mouth piece.
I was happy when Williams took on the anti-sealers but his latest dictatorial actions are laughable. He will be remembered as a fool with a big mouth.
Duffy knows this and is trying to highlight this in a somewhat insulting manner but maybe that's what Ghiz needs to get his attention.
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lame brain doodling from charlottetown, pei writes: I say let Senator Duffy go ahead and shake this country up. It's about time somebody punched a hole in the bottom of this politically correct overloaded boat.Too many people in Canada tip toing around every subject, Right now we need more Crosbys, Trudeaus, and Duffys to keep us anchored to the real world. Self interest, politically correct groups have the rest of us walking around like we all got the shaft. Canada would be a lot better off if more Canadians spoke their mind more often.
The dictionary of banned words has become heftier than the one that gives us the meanings of those words.
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Wayne from Calgary, Alberta writes: Its about time someone has the cahoonas to tell Danny Boy where to go.
Alta Bc and Ont. have paid and paid and paid for NL for years, NL is a have provence now so start carrying your own can. Quit your crying, you sound like spoiled brat..
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louis patterson from charlottetown, p.e.i. writes: what can you expect from this island premier, the man is up & down like a toilet seat, Duff is making a valid point , also ,if our premier does not stop convescating the tax revenue of charlottetown,the city will not have any finances to keep up services to the population..and who wants more taxes..!
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MikeSr from Ontario writes: I used to worry about the Atlantic Provinces, if and/or when Quebec goes it's own way. No longer, New Brunswick finding O Canada is not relevent, but wanting as many new births as possible to increase their share of Equalization; Newfoundland and Labrador grabbing all it can as they continue a Factor mentality; Prince Edward Island this late confederate now thinking that the over the top return to joey is in their self interest. Sorry Nova Scotia, once a place of my residence, you will be left with the others when the demarcation line in Canada is Ontario's Eastern border. Possibly with a deviation around Ottawa so it will remain with the leavings.
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2 more cents from Charlottetown, PEI writes: I agree with don't believe the hype . Our premier, representing the people of PEI, has spoken out about the loss of 20 mil in equalization payments to PEI.
Our senator is trying to make our premier look bad by pretending this has something to do with NFLD and Danny Williams who has a known feud with Harper. Duffy is the one creating the connection between Williams and Ghiz.
Think about what's happening here - PEI stands to lose 20 Million and our senator is ridiculing our Premier instead of representing the people of PEI.
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driedchar from Stanhope, PEI writes: I wasn't aware that Ghiz had come out in support of Williams on equalization. Good for Mr. Ghiz! I support the stand he and Williams are taking. Thank you to Senator Duffy for pointing it out.
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2 more cents from Charlottetown, PEI writes: I agree with don't believe the hype . Our premier, representing the people of PEI, has spoken out about the loss of 20 mil in equalization payments to PEI.
Our senator is trying to make our premier look bad by pretending this has something to do with NFLD and Danny Williams who has a known feud with Harper. Duffy is the one creating the connection between Williams and Ghiz.
Think about what's happening here - PEI stands to lose 20 Million and our senator is ridiculing our Premier instead of representing the people of PEI.
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D.J. from P.E.I. writes: I see that most of the people that are supporting Mike Duffy on this issue are either heavy Tories or from outside the Province of P.E.I.
It is quite obvious that the real people that are in bed together are Mike Duffy and Steven Harper.
It is also looks like the two boys have been in bed together long before the last election.
Looks to me that instead of suporting the Province you represent , you are going to do what ever Stevie tells you to do.
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Figures from PE writes: Sounds like a joke former-VP Cheney would make.
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Deb from NS writes: We really miss you, Mike. You had more freedom when you were visible to the people. You kinda disappeared from view taking that job. Maybe you should rethink your acceptance.
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CITIZEN from PEI writes: I dont think slamming Duffys looks is any better nor attacking his eating habits. But this guy Duffy needs to be a bit less tacky.
What group will he offend next?
Its uneducated and if his words were comments on a story presented in the paper such as I am doing now, they would be crossed out by an Editor as offensive., and not even get to be read.
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spud from pei writes: danny williams for prime minister
at lest he,s got some ba//s and will stick up for nfld and everybody else.
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jo ken from winnipeg, MB writes: Islanders ,get a sense of humour back! Mike Duffy has been a very renowned journalist in Canada for many years. Islanders have been proud of him and rightly so. His unique sense of humour,as well as his brilliant,knowledge of Canadian politics made him a son of the Island to be proud of. I have no doubt that he will work diligently for PEI so just lay off
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Too funny from PE writes: Yeah, can you just see Danny Williams on the world stage, telling Obama off, that would be cute...
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Eyes wide Open from pei writes: Yep Duffy just threw up a smoke screen to hide the real issue...PEI is losing a large chunk in equalization and Mike Duffy is trying to deflect this fact by putting Guiz in with Williams. Nice move Duffy it is really quite ingenious but the truth of the matter is that we in PEI will suffer over this and regardless of what you think we are not all as stupid as you may think, you are supposed to be our representative, it would be great if you used that ingenuity to support the province you represent? Yes that would be the honorable thing, however this does show where your heart lies and it didnt take you long to prove it. Looks like harper has a senator from PEI who is simply representing himself and harper he certainly isnt helping us with these kinds of comments..
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Chris from PEI writes: It is actually the following part that concerns me most:
...and P.E.I. has our goodwill and our good relations.
OUR . Doesn't seem to be speaking as an Island representative there...Seems very patriarchal.
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WIDE BELLY from Charlottetown, P.E.I. writes: So, here is a senator from Prince Edward Island attacking Robert Ghiz, the premier of the province, for standing up for the Island and its citizens. Maybe Mr. Duffy should also stand up for his home province.
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Dan from Ontario writes: Duffy got his Senate seat as payment for smearing Dion by airing his reaction to that past/future/past what if question that true anglophones couldn't understand. Harper couldn't wait to get to the back of the plane to show to the journalists he had ignored all campaign. Would you expect anything honourable from these clowns? We get what we deserve.
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k mac from NT writes: I didn't realize that the Islanders were such a delicate folk.
Come on- get a sense of humor..
Duffy's comment is rather humerous..he calls a spade a spade.
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Senator, Hear me whine! from Charlottetown, PEI writes: The oldest line in the political book.
Nothing too original or polite about our gift to the Senate.
You can just hear him howling if someone had said that about him.
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Old Tory from P.E.I. writes: Ghiz and Williams are idiots. Williams tried to coerce liberal MLA's, from NFLD, to break ranks with their leader and vote against the budget for no good reason. Ghiz is ranting and raving that PEI is losing transfer payments which is pure utter nonsense. Mr. Ghiz, a puppy of politics, needs to work with Ottawa instead of against Ottawa for the good of PEI. Also, folks, don't forget we sent 3 liberal buffoons to Ottawa the last election, we deserve what we get.
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Brian Wilkins from Dartmouth, NS writes: TA from PEI wrote The libs caused a massive deficit budget then run around saying its Harpers budget and all his fault for putting us into deficit.
What budget deficit are you talking about! Harper complained about the liberals always running a surplus, which is what he inherited and has since frittered away. I pray every day that we will survive this government.
The Americans got rid of their nemesis (Harpers hero) but it is still in doubt if they can be pulled back from the brink.
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Richard James from Edmonton, Alberta writes: anny Williams strikes me as a browbeating tyrant who becomes irrational if he can't intimidate and domineer. His behaviour with Prime Minister Martin ( who gave in to him) when he lowered the Canadian Flag made him feel he could also cow Harper no matter how unfair the deal he wanted was to the rest of Canada. Fortunately Harper stood up to him, said you have options but you can't have it both ways, and Williams he doesn't like it. Why should the rest of Canada give him more money in transfers, when Newfoundland is now swimming in oil revenue. That's straight greed. I also think he is attacking Harper to deflect and get peoples mind off the problems he has at home with health care etc. Ralph Klein used to do that regularly in Alberta but at least he was rational.
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Richard James from Edmonton, Alberta writes: I think that eventually Alberta, Saskatchewan, B.C. and probably the Yukon will form some kind of Federation and separate. Forget Manitoba, Ontario gets them - they are mostly wanna-be Ontario anyway. Western Canadians feel they have far more in common with the people to the south (western Americans) then people east of the Sask./ Man. border. When they travel most of them go south not east, and they like Americans. More then one person has said along the lines I have no more in common with someone from Toronto or Quebec then a Scot with the English or the French .
When Canada splits - What about the east coast you ask! 1-BC, AB, SK,YT; 2- ON,MB; 3-QC; 4-NB, NS, NL; will become a Republic with Danny Williams PRESIDENT FOR LIFE. Naturally NB & NS will have to contribute an extra share to the Union and have NL as a second language. 5-PE; without the transfer payments they have collected for years will have to get rid of all their politicians and then will flourish on their own. 6-NU & NT; whoever offers the best deal?
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Paul from NB writes: Mike Duffy is just another political hack - that's ALL he is. Difference is that now, he can fly the Tory flag high from the ramparts of his OTTAWA residence while pretending to live in PEI. I have to wonder how many beds he crawled into over the years to get his stories?
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He should step aside from northam, pei writes: Duffer should step aside. He said he was glad to take this appointment because it would extend his 'work' life after he reached the retirement age at CTV. Just thinking of himself. He has long been know as 'the tiny tory'. He is clearly a political hack for steve harper. This is not in the best interest of PEI. It certainly looks like steve harper is playing out his option year and will be going to the opposition seats in the next year or so. That will leave Danny Williams still in power in NFLD. We really need to strengthen the Atlantic Canadian ties as this is our geo-political homeland and we will either sink or swim together in the long run. Richard Brown is hard at work building bridges with NFLD to deliver Lower Churchill power to PEI. I feel the appointment of the Duff was a real unfortunate move; this recent farce only underlines how he should never have been appointed to the Senate in the first place. Show some character Mr. Duffy and step aside. Let's have an Islander representing PEI at least!
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Scott from Saskatchewan writes: I have to laugh at all the comments about Premier Williams is standing up for Newfoundland & Labrador. What he's really doing is griping about equalization payments.
Here's a bulletin ... Newfoundland is a HAVE province. No more need for handouts. Williams should shut up, buckle down and make Newfoundland work instead of looking for more handouts.
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Thanks alot from PEI writes: Great ambassador for PEIslanders. Thanks alot senator Duffy.
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ShockedandAppalled from PE writes: Senator Duffy should apologize for embarassing us Islanders.
We certainly desrve a better standard than this buffoonery.
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speedy from PE writes: Well!!! Duffey shows his true colors and his alligence to Harper, glad that our premier stood up and spoke for us just like Danny Williams did for NL.
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ha ha from chtown, pei writes: ... you come here & make comments like this ... you are gross ....where do you think comments like this get you ..... no where but the dog house or in your case,pig house ....shame on you !!!!!!
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Frustrated Islander from PEI writes: Ok, first if this Provincial Government is allowed to continue, PEI may as well be renamed Ghizneyland cause the caucus governs like it's their playground.
Second, this debate over Duffy being from the Island has been beat to death. Born and raised, he's just part of a minority of Islanders who left to pursue a career instead of taking 12 weeks of work for the city just to get their stamps and then happy to be laid off and collect the EI payments of those who actually want to work full time.
Lastly, all you ever seen in the comments of political stories (until today) was how all the Island was sick of the political double talk. Now you have a senator who shot from the hip and you think it's a disgrace??? Just proves most need something to complain about while they collect that other 40 weeks of EI and sit in Tim Hortons.
Good on Duffy, it's about time someone called it like it is.
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clint from not pei writes: Boy oh Boy, what a clown,I am really glad he is from PEI and not NS.
top it all off he is now showing just how stupid he really is.
WINK for MOM....
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stoic observer from PEI writes: Sen. Duffy has proven himself to be an intellectual lightweight and obviously has no idea how poorly his comments in the public record will reflect on his very minor role in the history of the senate (take it from me - I research parliamentary history for a living).
That being said, if I must give Sen. Duffy some advice, it is to perhaps take a chapter from the very successful playbook of Bill Casey, MP for Cumberland-Colchester-Musquodoboit Valley in our neighbouring province of Nova Scotia.
Mr. Casey is by far my favourite current parliamentarian. He is respectful and delivers his addresses in the House of Commons with style and with a passion and clarity that nobody else can emulate. And he sticks up for his principles - the biggest of which is supporting his constituents. By voting against Mr. Harper's budget in 2007 which destroyed the agreement between Canada and NS, Mr. Casey showed his integrity.
Sen. Duffy should start to learn to stick up for his newly adopted province (PEI - once he gets residency here) and stop the partisan drivel that plays for politics in Ontario. You stick by your province. Period.
That is the same game that premiers play on the national stage. You cannot fault Danny Williams for trying to fight for his province. Robert Ghiz realizes the problems with the 2009 budget for PEI and has voiced his support for Mr. Williams opposition to the budget - nothing more.
Sen. Duffy, learn to adopt a tone and delivery similar to Mr. Casey and work on getting your integrity back.
You are no help to anyone if you just toe the line with Harper's shock troops (or Iggy's for that matter).
Put PEI first and drop the smarmy sophomoric attitude that you brought over from the 4th estate.
Develop integrity (take lessons if you must) and learn how to effectively address PEI's concerns in Parliament.
Rise above the mud-slinging and don't become a slinger (such as you did here).
And support our elected premier and his government, no matter what party they're from. I don't care if it's the PEI Ears and Nose Party. If Islanders elect them, then it is your duty as a Senator representing PEI to ensure that the elected government of PEI's voice is heard in the Senate, because that is the voice of islanders.
We're small enough as it is. We don't need to be further marginalized because you're fighting Harper's Ontario battles.
Ditch Upper Canada and ask politely to be allowed back into the Maritimes.
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Vic Ritchie from Edmonton, Alberta writes: I can see it now Ontario, Manitoba,Saskatchewan & British Columbia. What a great country that would make. Let the eastern $#%$#@ freeze in the dark!!
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Disappointed from Charlottetown, PEI writes: This is the reason we need an elected Senate! What an idiot! Leave the glib rants to Rick Mercer Senator Duffy, they are not becoming to a Senator...even an unelected one. The residents of your fair Island expect their Senators to act with respect and decorum, not a potty mouth . Smarten up!! And another thing...there are a large number of people out here that happen to think we need more Danny Williams in politics. He is the one political figure who stands up for his province and considering the screwover Newfoundland has received since they joined Confederation I must say more power to him!!! Hope he replaces Harper!!
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Casey from Canada writes: Does Danny have proof that Senator Duffy is being manipulated by the PM. You see given the recent events surrounding the federal budget vote, the Canadian public is already fully informed of how good Danny is in manipulating public servants at the federal level. Danny also keeps harping about how the federal gov't is depriving N&L out of $1.2 billion, but interestingly enough Danny never actually says what paragraph or clause in the budget takes that funding away. So Danny, which sentence or paragraph specifically states the removal of the funding? Because to date when asked that question he is very vague in his response.
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Kevin Guest from St. John's, Newfoundland writes: Again, we have a man who opens his mouth and then thinks of what it was that came out. I think it shows the character of Mike Duffy and the respect I once had for him has been lost. Very unprofessional, maybe this is why our senators need to be elected because patronage appointments are not working well for our country. I think what Fabian Manning is to Newfoundland, Mike Duffy has just become to P.E.I!We see a repeat of people trying to benefit themselves, you can stop now Mr.Duffy you got the job.
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Herb Johnson from Ottawa, Ontario writes: Good on you Duff!
About time somebody stood up to that B.S. artist and liar from that beautiful province, the rock.
Williams is a real disgrace and shouldn't be allowed to call himself a Canadian. It's clowns like Williams who will likely be responsible for the breakup of this great country. He sure seems to work at it.
With citizens like Danny the Clown, Canada doesn't need a lot of enemies!!
Keep up the good work, Mike. We in the rest of Canada need somebody to protect our interests from fools like Danny the Mouth!
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Greg from PEI writes: Lets review Duffy's credentials.
Great boot licker and the most inane and softball interviewer in all of Ottawa.
Politically appointed Senator - not for great public service, not for great political analysis, not for dedication to PEI except for condesending comments about how quaint it is.
Perhaps he has a crystal ball and now is clairvoyant.
Who knows the future.......so playing coy with Equalization is not in PEI's interest. I'm glad Ghiz has echoed Williams concerns.......but I'm also surprised - must have been a good coin toss in the strategy sessions with his friends that morning.
Duffy's comments don't amount to a hill of beans and his crass language add to this.
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spindly-fromOn from Ontario writes: I am so glad I missed the polictially correct classes it seems allot have taken.
Go for it duff, nothing wrong with speaking your mind, provokes thought. Its about time the senate had some life in it.
As for the writer who said what do I tell my 12 year old at breakfast. How about eat your cereal or you'll be late for school. You might be amazed what he or she could tell you.
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Disgusted with Duffy from Charlottetown, PEI writes: Clearly of the 90 postings to this - most are disgusted with the actions of one who wishes to represent PEI in the Senate but chooses such a partisan approach - and gutter talk to try and bring down people of principle. If he does not see the value in delaying the implementation of the new equalization formula for one year while we all adjust to the changes in the economy, why doesn't Duffy explain what is to be gained by this new formula which will deprive PEI of much needed federal dollars.
The Premier knows that the formula should be delayed by one year - and Islander understand why. Duffy needs to learn that political debate is based on ideas not on calling people names or suggesting they are having sexual acts with each other.
Duffy's comments as not even sophomoric - plain stupid, and an embarrassment for the province of PEI to have to be associated with such a fool. He may wear a fine suit and get a huge salary but he opens his mouth and out comes the foul reality of this uncouth individual who the Island must now bear as their representative.
Clearly he should apologize, for his taking a metaphor into a highly sexualized insult and directing this against individuals. By attacking leaders he inflicted his poison on all residents as well.
If he has an issue with a policy - state what the issue is, not calling the leaders of democratically elected provincial parliaments names.
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