PM seems to back off equalization stance

[CHIMO]

GIMLI, Man. — Prime Minister Stephen Harper appears to be softening his government's commitment to remove oil and gas revenues from the federal equalization formula, referring to his party's election promise on the matter as a "preference."

Before heading into a dinner with several premiers and American governors Wednesday evening, Harper told reporters that he wants to see a report from a federal panel examining the complicated revenue-sharing program before he makes any decisions on the issue.

"We have expressed a preference in the past to exclude resource revenues but we are awaiting the report from the panel of experts," Harper said in French.

"We want to look at their recommendations."

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Almost on the ropes and still breathing pure oxygen.

[Canadian Socialist]

1. This will go over well in Alberta...

NOT. I don't think Stevie cares. They (the neo-cons) could run a dead dog in Alberta, and win... if they said it was "Conservative". I know. I live in this hell hole.

[MrPrax]

2. Ha Ha (--in the manner of Nelson )

They'll love yer ass in Alberta, Steve-O

[CHIMO]

3. McGuinty backs Sask. on equalization

REGINA — Ontario Premier Dalton McGuinty says he can't see how the federal government can walk away from an election promise to remove oil and gas revenues from the federal equalization formula.

After meeting with Saskatchewan Premier Lorne Calvert on Thursday, McGuinty said he won't oppose excluding non-renewable resource revenues for the complicated federal revenue-sharing formula.

"I've told Lorne that I certainly will not argue against that," McGuinty told reporters at the Saskatchewan legislature.

Quebec wants to ensure its transfers don't shrink because of oil-rich provinces' demands.

Premier Jean Charest has pointed out that the Conservatives' election commitment came with the caveat that no other provinces would be harmed.

http://www.thestar.com/NASApp/cs/ContentServer?pagename=thestar/Layout/Article_Type1&c=Article&pubid=968163964505&cid=1149198612158&col=968705899037&call_page=TS_News&call_pageid=968332188492&call_pagepath=News/News

Feeling that you are being pushed into a corner? Just go talk to your buddy Irish Eyes.

How about we bring in renewal and non-renewal?

[daleo]

4. He feels he stands to gain more seats in Quebec than he loses in Alberta

And, given Alberta's political culture, it's a pretty safe bet. There is no right wing alternative now, and too many Albertan are afraid of the Liberals and NDP. So, I expect a round of whining from former Reformers, but not much more.