Political Ponderings

*As an aside, sorry it has been awhile since my last post. I had been fairly busy and had some internet access issues most of this month. I assure you all I am still alive and still interested in blogging.

Working for the government makes you political. In my case, as friends and family can attest, that probably isn’t necessary. I have had a more than average interest in politics from a young age. Personally I believe it stems from comics- I used to read the comics in the newspaper, but being a voracious reader they were soon done and I would start browsing the rest of the newspaper. I would often end up on the opinion page where I would find the political cartoon. Eventually my appetite for words and curiosity over what the political cartoon was talking about would cause me to read the other articles. Overtime I developed an interest in politics which was fed by my interest in Canadian history and current events. I briefly considered a career in politics, and though I haven't ruled it out entirely, I came to the decision that I don't have the necessary skills. That hasn't however dampened my interest in politics.

I must admit sometimes I find televised elections broadcasts more interesting to watch than sporting events; and have to confess that I have stayed up quietly listening to a radio broadcast on CBC to hear election results into the wee hours of the morning; not wanting to miss the acceptance and concession speeches from the party leaders or any of the commentary. Readers of my blog may remember that early on in this current federal government I closely followed the Canada Post filibustering debate, cheering on the NDP as I watched the live feed from the House of Commons. Many people who know me personally may have been privy to a political rant or discussion of mine. I frequently like to discuss or speculate about issues in politics and have no qualms about sharing my opinions, solicited or not.

My current interest in politics, particularly the provincial and federal budgets, has nothing to do with comics or election fever. It has a whole lot more to do with the fact that I am an occasional provincial government employee, a public servant with a temporary non-recurring contract. A contract which has just come to an end and likely won’t be renewed. Not because my job isn’t important or due to any lack of skill on my part, but simply because there is no money to pay me.

For those who aren’t aware, recently the Ontario provincial government and Canadian federal government revealed their budget plan for the following year. Both budgets seek to address deficits and reign in government spending. The Ontario budget particularly needs to address a large deficit while also fulfilling election promises not to increase taxes or cut spending in education and healthcare.  I am sure that in the coming days, weeks, and months there will be a lot of discussion on what the budget means, and what the implications are. In the case of the provincial budget there is even the worry of whether or not it will pass and if there will be another election. (Something even this political junkie doesn’t want.) There will be lots of opinions on all sides of the issues. I myself have a bunch and if you see me I will probably share them with you. I beg forgiveness from those who have no interest in politics and will have to endure my opinions. I also beg understanding. You may not have any interest in politics and may see the federal and provincial budgets as boring things that don’t relate to you. Please remember that for some people this has a direct impact on their lives and careers, and hopefully you can come to see that as a citizen of this province and country the decisions made by our government affect you too.