Kermit is Green and he is on T.V

The writer on this blog believes that the Greens need as many strong voices as the other parties. I was a candidate in the 2004 federal election and strongly believe in the fact that a minority government would have served the interests of Canadians. The fall of the most recent government shows that we live in a reality of power politics that remind us of school yard bullies rather than elected officals. Hence, my decision to write and reflect on the 2005 election.

Issue of the week: TV Debates and the inclusion of the Green Party leader.

People need to be firmly aware of the fact that our democratic rights to hear other emerging voices is being curtailed by the broadcast consortium in the upcoming Canadian election debates. Televison debates have become a focal point for an electorate that will be focusing on friends,family and travelling during the holiday season. Of all elections, it may be the only time that people consider who they will be voting for on an individual level and party level. We know the evidence on a provincial level. All people need to review is the 2001 BC election and impact it had on the strong Green performance.

On the Green Party website this week:

"Despite a surge in popularity, and even though it receives over $1 million of taxpayer money, the Green Party has been excluded from preparations for the debates to be held during this election. The Green Party believes that any party that achieves over 2 per cent of the vote must be included, as a consequence of their federal funding. “When taxpayers help finance a political party, but cannot see or hear from its leader, it simply doesn’t make sense”, said Harris. “The broadcast consortium’s decision erodes voter interest and participation in the election.”

The Edmonton Journal Article

The encouraging thing about the Green's call to be included in the televised debate in 2005 is that there are outsiders calling for it too. This week saw the publishing of an article in the Edmonton Journal calling for a new benchmark to be established for the inclusion of political leaders. It refers back to the implications of the Green Party of Canada achieving 4.3% of the vote: "The Elections Canada benchmark should be the one the TV networks choose for debate participation, rather than the traditional rule that each leader must represent a party with elected MPs".

Final Thought

Believe it or not, this is an issue that has wide reaching effects that include an impact in your local neighbourhoods and community associations. Why? If a national consortium can dictate that Greens be excluded it sets a precendent for local editorial boards of community newspapers and other organizations to seize the opportunity to exclude an important voice in Canadian politics. Yes, the Greens are on the offensive but it is important to realize that other emerging political parties in Canada deserve fair treatment if they meet the standards. Write or email your local newspaper to ensure adequate and fair treatment for the Greens.