Douglas W. Judson
Dear editor:
Yet again I find myself compelled to offer critical praise for the stirring dramatic exploits of John Rafferty and Co., now in their seventh month of fabrication.
In this latest episode of New Democrat deception, our lead male, Mr. Rafferty, blatantly defrauds the electorate about his ability to deliver on key campaign promises.
A larf, indeed–were the shameful irony not so obvious to those with some parliamentary perspective.
In our communities, legitimate and safe gun owners are not up in arms (about arms) about nothing! Mr. Rafferty’s insistence that he was unable to warm a seat during the recent vote on the motion on the long-gun registry reveals his insincerity.
Order Paper records clearly show advance notice regarding the vote was provided.
As a former parliamentary staffer, I can confirm that no committed MP would preoccupy themselves elsewhere with a vote looming–especially one of local importance. The actions of Mr. Rafferty and the NDP caucus imply either muzzling by their keeper or incompetence by default.
Not convinced? Consider this–early into Mr. Rafferty’s term as MP, he promised to introduce a private member’s bill to abolish the long-gun registry altogether. Yet, to date, all parliamentary records indicate that no such bill has been drafted in his name, let alone been introduced in the House of Commons.
The evidence suggests that the opposite of truth-telling is afoot. But don’t gasp too soon–it is not without cover-up.
To divert attention from his own resultless rhetoric, Mr. Rafferty has ramped up the frequency of his expensive town halls and retail politicking. Even NDP supporters are embarrassed by Mr. Rafferty’s statements that parliamentary votes are not important.
It is sad that even with the flexibility of developing uncosted election platforms and issuing immobile lip-service, the NDP has little desire to act on the input of Northwestern Ontario stakeholders. They are more content furthering a misty-eyed perception of being concerned.
The NDP contributes nothing constructive to this minority Parliament, preferring instead to engage in irrational political tire-slashing in exchange for photo opportunities. Their earlier decision to vote down the federal budget before actually reading it was immature enough, and certainly trivializes their need for public consultations on the matter.
Unsuspecting as Mr. Rafferty may be, his job is to legislate, not pontificate, and this fact is not lost on his constituents with this latest round of futile NDP smoke and mirrors.
If Mr. Rafferty is unable to deliver on such a simple promise, let alone to speak truthfully, it is doubtful the NDP is appropriate representation for our communities during these challenging times.
Sincerely,
Douglas W. Judson
Emo, Ont.
