Earlier this morning, Liberal Leader Michael Ignatieff stood up in the House of Commons to table a motion of no-confidence against the Harper government. The motion, stating simply “That this House has lost confidence in the government,” was the starting point for a speech that laid bare Stephen Harper’s failed record for all Canadians.

At the heart of the Liberal Leader’s speech was a passionate defence of the capacity of government to improve the lives of Canadians:

There is on the opposite side of the House what could be called the “starve the beast” ideology. We know where that ideology comes from but it is not suited to Canada. It will weaken and eventually it will change Canada beyond recognition. This party stands against that ideology all the way down.

And we stand against it because we believe profoundly that if that ideology prevails in this country it will permanently weaken the tissue that binds our society together: the healthcare system of which we are so proud; the care for the aged which distinguishes us as a civilized society; the capacity of our society to provide security in retirement.

This government works on one plan and one plan only. Starve the beast and lower expectations of government so far that Canadians cease to have any expectations of their government whatsoever. This is an unworthy way to govern this country and we stand against it.

Watch the full speech below. You can also read the full text of the speech here.

Blog