Maxime Bernier stands by his word - a rare occurrence indeed!

I was surprised to see this article appear in today's Ottawa Citizen: http://tinyurl.com/6dm6bht - Maxime Bernier speaks out against Bill 101 while expressing his opinion. I was saddened to see a 'clarification' in the National Post, figuring that Mr. Bernier was going to distance himself from the comments, claiming he was taken out of context. After all, doesn't that happen all the time these days?

Much to my surprise, he didn't distance himself from his quoted comments at all. In fact, he explained further: http://tinyurl.com/65lwzyl Since this sort of thing doesn't happen often, I took a moment to write a quick note to thank him.

Mr. Bernier,

People can be quick to complain, but there are far too few people out there who will take the time to compliment. I was happy to read your comments about the antiquated Bill 101 and was disappointed to see that there was a subsequent ‘clarification letter’ in the National Post… until I read the letter.

Congratulations for taking a stance and sticking to it. It is very rare that a modern day politician keeps his or her word when a statement generates negative feedback or controversy. It is even rarer when that politician is a member of a governing party. Please stand strong and resist any temptation that might come from members of the Bloc Quebecois or its provincial counterpart in the days and weeks to come. It seems that these days only certain people have an unfettered right to have their own opinion. As for the rest, they’re only allowed to have their own as long as the ‘court of public opinion’, one that usually represents a vocal minority, agrees with it. If they don’t, as you know, it isn’t uncommon to have these people demand apologies and/or resignations.

Thank you for having the courage of your convictions. Not many have that intestinal fortitude, particularly in this political climate.

Regards,
Michael Mason

I can only hope that others see what he has done and that this starts a new trend towards seeing politicians (governing or in opposition) having the cojones to stand up for what they believe. Is that not why they jumped into the fray to begin with? I fear too many have forgotten why they put themselves up for election in the first place once they get there.