Posted on 09/24/2001 6:13:55 PM PDT by Ryle
A Deficit in Protection
Martin's comments show what priority national security really has
Finance Minister Paul Martin did the nation's security forces no favours when he linked them to the possibility of future deficits. No more tax cuts or debt repayments? Sorry, too many people in uniform.
Not, we notice, all departments will take a two per cent budget cut to pay for extra security. Cut spending? Not this government. Run a deficit and blame the people who might have to stand in harm's way.
It was a performance synchronized with everything else which has taken place in Ottawa in the past two weeks, words that sounded almost right but devoid of commitment.
Martin seemed clear enough when he stated: "We are in extraordinary times and, in these times, protecting Canadians is our number 1 priority. And that means there is going to be additional spending in terms of national security and that means we are going to have to make some hard choices."
He went on to say this year's projected surplus of approximately $5 billion, together with the $4 billion contingency fund, would be required for national security and to protect basic programs before deficit financing would be contemplated.
Yet, in those few sentences, Martin has told Canadians a lot.
First, it is evidently only in extraordinary times that this government considers protecting Canadians to be any sort of priority, though we sort of knew that. The continually diminished role and strength of the Canadian Forces over the last 30 years, and their justification in terms of peacekeeping rather than national defence, was an unmistakable hint.
In case anybody missed it, the recent history of internal security shows beyond doubt that it is not a priority either. Terrorists abuse Canada's refugee system, which allows them to enter this country, raise money here and use it as a base for activities elsewhere.
Even refugees who offend Canadian laws and immigration regulations are not always deported or dealt with. The RCMP lacks the resources to apprehend them; should they come to police attention through their own folly or criminal acts, immigration authorities often turn them loose anyway. There is example after example.
And lest any Canadian suppose the destruction of the World Trade Center would have shown the government that terrorism happens on this continent, too, and some safeguards would be prudent, it voted down an opposition proposal to get tough on it.
This is consistent with the message since Sept. 11 that Canadian values must prevail and the country's refugee and immigration policies are not likely to be touched.
This Liberal government has it all backwards. Security is not the last charge on government, but should be the number 1 priority all the time. It is the basis of sovereignty, and government's reason to exist. Without security from internal and external attack, it doesn't matter what other social programs there are.
Martin speaks of hard choices. Actually, the Liberals won't find it hard at all. They have always stood on guard first and foremost for social programs. We don't doubt they will find a way to spend an extra $9 billion, but it will be a welcome surprise to us if very much of it finds its way into police and military budgets.
In a week when many Canadians have felt profoundly embarrassed by their federal government, Martin, in an attempt to assuage our anxieties, has confirmed our worst suspicions. His candour is helpful, but American values are beginning to look attractive.
© Copyright 2001 Calgary Herald
Imagery that's unfortunately far too accurate..... I fear you may eventually be proved right.
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