Like it or not we may be forced to go through our fourth federal election in five years even though a recent poll says 70% Canadians are against it. And the reason they don't want it is simple. We don't need it. A selfish opposition could care less and apparently will force it upon us even though there are no compelling ballot box issues.
This should concern all of us. If there is an issue with this election the it has to be stability. Most Canadians do not like this instability and the majority believe Stephen Harper and the Conservatives, although imperfect, are providing stable scandal-free government. They understand the focus now should be the economy and not a pointless election which may well put in jeopardy the current economic recovery. They are annoyed with the opposition for inventing reasons to go to the polls.
The best option would be that there be no election but if the opposition forces one Canadians have an excellent opportunity to do something about the instability of having perpetual minority governments. They can vote in a majority government. Still fresh in our minds is the hastily conceived and thankfully just as hastily doomed Liberal, NDP, Bloc coalition of last December. None of these parties individually are capable of a majority.
That leaves one credible option. Give Harper the majority he deserves and the stability the country needs.
Gerald Hall
Parksville, B.C.
