Canada says “no” to missile defense

Canada officially said “no” to the US missile defense system on Thursday. While there was no rejoicing in the streets, or some extravagant party to celebrate Canada ’s decision, I think that those opposed (myself included) are just happy to hear the Canadian government has stuck by it’s people, even if this decision was based purely on politics. Cease Fire is touting a victory on their website saying “We Win” and also sent out a mass email to all the people who signed up for their newsletter. They stated that through their website over 50,000 Canadians sent letters to members of parliament.

A day after saying no to the US we got to hear some of the empty threats from US politicians and media sources. Cellucci said immediately after the decision “We simply cannot understand why Canada would, in effect, give up its sovereignty — its seat at the table — to decide what to do about a missile that might be coming towards Canada.”. In reality Canada would have no real say regardless of if we were a part of the program, and lets get real the only reason a missile would be sent at Canada would be if we were apart of this program. Prime Minister Martin in response to Cellucci had this to say “I don’t think that anyone expected that there would be any other finger on a button than the Americans,” and further went on to say, “But in terms of Canadian airspace, yes we would expect to be consulted. This is our airspace. We’re a sovereign nation. And you don’t intrude on a sovereign nation’s airspace without seeking permission,” Amen Mr Martin.

While many parts of our own media are leading with shocking headlines like “Trade Seen As Casualty of Missile Defense Move” -CTV, I decided to check out the US media for their reaction. The Cleveland Plain Dealer was very civil with the issue with interviews from the current Canadian Ambassador. While the former Canadian Ambassador is behind the decision it appears our new neo-liberal McKenna is seriously “pissed”. I suppose I would be a little upset too if someone made me look like a complete jackass!

So to recap no to missile defense is a good first step in the right direction. Cellucci is still an idiot. McKenna and Cellucci would likely get along quite well. CTV = Fox news Canada.