[Gunnair]

Quote:

Jeff Jedras Aug 5, 2011 – 11:37 AM ET

For me, the debate about Nycole Turmel’s membership in two Quebec sovereigntist parties is less about Turmel (who is essentially a placeholder until either Jack Layton returns, or doesn’t) and more about the fuzziness of the NDP’s position on Quebec, and its approach to federalism.

There are many Turmels in the new NDP caucus, many MPs who were either avowed sovereigntists or, like Turmel, at least members of sovereigntist parties, and recently so. This flirting with Quebec nationalism is dangerous; just ask Brian Mulroney. And I was no fan of the approach Jean Lapierre brought to my Liberals. As I’ve written previously, the NDP seems determined to promote one vision of federalism in Quebec, and one in the rest of Canada. They continue to ignore the undeniable gulf between their Sherbrooke Declaration and the Clarity Act.

I’m less concerned about Turmel’s membership cards (a symptom) than I am the underlying condition: where does the NDP stand on federalism and Quebec nationalism, are they consistent in that position across the country, and is all of their caucus on board with defending and promoting that position? Until they’re clear on these issues, they’re going to have to continue to deal with flare-ups like this one, because the underlying questions will linger.

It has been painful to watch the NDP spin in response to this story. I find their strategy puzzling from a communications perspective, as it seems to only prolong and elevate the story. But more than tactics, the most striking thing about the NDP and its supporters is their utter inability to take a hit. They’re the Official Opposition now. They’re going to be a target and under scrutiny like never before. Sometimes the criticism will be valid. Often, it won’t be. Either way, they’re going to need to grow a thicker skin and learn to roll with the punches, or it’s going to be a long four years.

You can defend Turmel’s actions, and feel they are perfectly above-board. But raising the questions that have been raised is absolutely fair. It is a legitimate story, and the people have the right to an explanation. Provide it, and then move on to your issues. But don’t cry about it being raised in the first place. If all is above-board the defensiveness is unnecessary. Some Turmel defenders have actually been crying McCarthyism, which is beyond ridiculous.

Continually playing the victim will get old fast.
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