This may come as a surprise, but Stephen Harper is going to announce the creation of another park in the North during his tour. You know, like he’s done every other year. And hey, creating parks are a great way to look like you’re doing something for the environment when really you’re making no effort at all, right?
The federal government has announced they’re going to launch a 25-year renewal plan for Tunney’s Pasture (otherwise known as the Land of Exile during my former life working government contracts). I hope they have good luck with the contaminated sites there, and that hopefully unlike the Parliamentary precinct plans, 25 years won’t turn into 40.
Thomas Mulcair admits that he’s no Jack Layton, but that he learned a lot from his leadership style. Aaron Wherry has more tales of the creation of Layton’s final letter.
Medical journals say that we need a plan to fight drug shortages. I’m sure that Leona Aglukkaq will get right on that, since the voluntary measures she’s already proposed are working so effectively.
The Department of Fisheries and Oceans says there’s no way it can complete all of its environmental assessments for the Northern Gateway pipeline before the review panel deadline is up, and that budget cuts are further limiting their ability. But don’t worry, these decisions will be decided based on science and politics, so it’s all good, right?
Defence analyst Philippe Lagassé looks at the thankless task that the job of Chief of Defence Staff will be for the next few years, for whoever it is that’s chosen. One of those challenges will be replacing our submarine fleet. Naval planners are starting to lay out the case, but it’ll be tough – especially since any kind of useful Arctic capabilities will mean nuclear submarines, which are a lot more expensive.
The Coast Guard is looking to replace its helicopter fleet. Because the procurement process for these kinds of things has been going so well to date.
Bank of Canada Governor Mark Carney has apologised for the whole “Asian-looking woman” banknote focus group controversy.
Bloomberg looks at Chinese investment in other Canadian companies, particularly in the North.
In a shocking turn of events, Elizabeth May, Bruce Hyer and Stéphane Dion are concerned about partisanship in Parliament. Shocking!
And Liberal MP Denis Coderre says he’s going to either run for leader or to be mayor of Montreal. One or the other – he just hasn’t decided which yet.