It is very unfortunate that the Quebecers see Harper not as a national leader, but probably a Westerner, child of the Reform party, with no Quebec base or interest. Much as the rest of Canada views the PQ/BQ.
Sadly, it seems this problem cannot be solved in spite of men of good will on both sides. Problem is, there aren't enough of them to influence the entrenched public opinion. The two provinces with the most to lose are Quebec and Ontario, old neighbours, old allies, old enemies, and of course, Canada as a whole.
Out on the Western fringes, this old Upper Canada dance is increasingly viewed as tiresome, and in my opinion, Western Separatists, would gain instant credibility if Quebec is once again threatening a referendum. It could get very ugly, and ugly for the Canadian dollar as well. |
