Thoughts on Ukraine Debate in the HoC

Yesterday, as an interim Prime Minister and cabinet were introduced to Ukraine and the world, the House of Commons held a take note debate on the situation in Ukraine. 

Liberal MP Chrystia Freeland spoke passionately, about her own background as a Ukrainian-Canadian and helped the discussion for those knowing little about politics, culture or even history of the Ukraine. Of special note, and I’m glad she made it known, is the reality that most Ukrainians speak both Russian and Ukrainian. It is not an either/or situation. For those who do not know Freeland’s background, it was her own mother who helped write the 2004 Ukrainian constitution.

As the House became a sidebar of declaration on which MP was of Ukrainian-Canadian descent, and who had, or didn’t have, Ukrainian-Canadians in their riding, MP Freeland put it into perspective: that Ukraine should concern all Canadians not just Ukrainian-Canadians. I couldn't agree more.

In Freeland’s true spirit and understanding of the crisis and need for non-partisan engagement, she openly noted and complemented NDP MP Peggy Nash for her work within both the Ukrainian-Canadian community and abroad. Sadly, from the CPC side of the bench, there was not nearly as much non-partisanship. However, a nice shout-out goes to CPC MP Peter Goldring, who openly admitted the need for working together by all parties to support Ukraine in their upcoming elections and economic struggles to come. It will be interesting to see how it plays out for Goldring, given the CPC messaging blatantly undermining and refusing any sort of all party delegation assistance. 

I also notice noting on twitter, that the same civil tone and civility between the parties that existed in the emergency debate in Ukraine held on December 10, 2013 in the House, was markedly different last night. This is not the time for partisanship, it is time for leadership.

Indeed, some of the government Members openly struggled with their speaking notes and pronunciation of words such as Kyiv. (I’m looking at you MP Hiebert)  During one of these skirmishes, NDP MP Peggy Nash said it best:

“Democracy is about the people in that country making their own decisions," Nash notes. "Surely that's what this Parliament should support."

On a side note, it was great to see two very strong political women from two different parties, Freeland and Nash, dominating this debate in the House.

Next blog: Ukraine at the Crossroads