The C-Word

In parliamentary democracies like ours, a minority legislature can happen. In cases when it does, the largest party often looks toward forming a government with the third or fourth largest party. If it is formal, this is a coalition. Back in late 2008, and early 2009, there was much discussion over whether or not the proposed Liberal-NDP coalition with Bloc support was legal. Yes it was and here's why.

Ultimately, the only thing that will change a government is not votes, but rather the confidence of the House. Take for example the 2008 debacle. The Conservatives won a large minority with 143 seats. The Liberals, NDP and Bloc Quebecois lost. Then Liberal leader Stephane Dion proposed a coalition government with the NDP complete with support from the Bloc. Together they had 163 seats, a majority. To form a government in such a manner is not illegal.

The Conservatives though shit their pants when they heard word of this. Power could have ripped from their hands that easily. But what Mr. Harper neglects to tell you is that back in 2004, Harper proposed a coalition to form the government with the support of the Bloc Quebecois and NDP. It came to nothing, but it shows that for a man to claim that a coalition is "undemocratic" and will "destroy Canada", he was willing to participate in one a few years before too.

Whoever has the confidence of the House has the right to form a government whether it be provincial, territorial or federal. Should another coalition be proposed following the next federal government remember that it's not illegal, and Harper wanted one before he was PM.