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Originally Posted by Eagle Eye
I was trying to understand what kind of Power the GG actually has, and something that came up was the fact that the queen still actually has some powers (is this true?) I was surprised to see that. And also that the GG has quite a lot of power but never actually uses it. Any experts on this?
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The Governor General is Canada's Head of State, as the Queens representative.
Basically, she reigns supreme. However, that is merely tradition and her role is strictly regulated by the Constitution. An election can be called only by her office, and she does so on the advice of the head of the Legislative body (Prime Minister).
It's my understanding that most Canadians are now pretty much pissed off at all parties for this. No one wants to spend another bunch of money on an election, delaying actual government work (not that they do any really) just to end up with yet another minority government that will simply bicker till they dissolve in 4 months.
With this in mind, I can see the Governor General looking to the coalition to lead until they lose confidence.
The Conservatives revealed their naked power grab last week and are now biting it. Harper screwed up big time and if his government gets demoted, he's out as leader. Maybe McKay can clean things up, assuming he gets the social right under control. I for one would like to see the return of the true Tories rather then this current Reform rabble.
Really, all Harper needs to do is publicly invite all the opposition leaders to the table to participate in crafting a budget that satisfies all parties. Hell, satisfy just one party and the threat is gone, reputation is restored and the "coalition" looks like a bunch of coop opportunists. But instead Harper is digging his moralistic heels in, whining about "socialist policies" and destroying Canada's shot at a responsible government.
This is a minority government in action, but with players who don't even grasp the concept of such a beast.
The only thing that I worry about with the coalition is the thought of Dion being Prime Minister. If Ignatieff becomes leader of the party in the interim, I'll rest easier. Canada needs a strong leader, Dion is not that.