Just the Facts: Stephen Harper’s Poor Judgement

September 27, 2013

Former Parliamentary Secretary to the Prime Minister and Conservative MP Dean Del Mastro is now facing four charges under the Canada Elections Act. These latest and very serious allegations confirm what Canadians have known for too long: Conservatives believe there is one set of rules for them, and one set of rules for everyone else.

Stephen Harper was elected on a promise to provide accountable and ethical government.

“This government is interested in accountability, and we intend to implement accountability.” (Stephen Harper, Hansard, December 7, 2006.)

Canadians know this is far from reality. A rundown of the key people appointed under this Prime Minister tells a very different story about his misguided judgement:

Nigel Wright, former Chief of Staff to the Prime Minister:
Resigned after admitting he gave a $90,000 cheque to Senator Mike Duffy to cover his ineligible expenses – a transaction that is now being investigated by the RCMP.

Senator Mike Duffy:
Currently facing an RCMP investigation concerning his expenses and his deal with Nigel Wright.

Senator Pamela Wallin:
Now facing her own RCMP investigation, after a recent audit ordered her to repay $121,348 to taxpayers.

Senator Patrick Brazeau:
Facing investigation by the RCMP for breach of trust.

Peter Penashue, former senior Conservative Cabinet Minister:
Resigned after allegations emerged of serious campaign irregularities, overspending and thousands of dollars in ineligible contributions.

Bruce Carson, former Senior Advisor to the Prime Minister:
Currently facing an ethics investigation and charge for influence peddling, Mr. Carson was hired by the Prime Minister’s Office despite them being aware of his two previous fraud convictions.

Arthur Porter, former Chair of the Security Intelligence Review Committee:
Facing charges of fraud, conspiracy to commit government fraud, abuse of trust and laundering the proceeds of a crime.

Saulie Zajdel, former Conservative candidate and Ministerial advisor:
Facing five criminal charges related to corruption, bribery, breach of trust and fraud.

Today we learned that new rules to ensure greater accountability of Senate expenses have been delayed as a direct result of Mr. Harper’s decision to prorogue Parliament.

Nearly eight years later, Canadians are still waiting for Mr. Harper to start offering the accountable and ethical government he promised.