Federal Election 2008: Will the Liberal Party Survive? (Part 2 Q&A)

Recent polls suggest another minority government in Canada after the October 14th vote, albeit the demographics of Parliament may change. Initially, environmental issues were high on the campaign agenda, arguably for good reason. However, the US-led world economic woes have come into play in Canada and shifted the focus towards our economy. The Liberal “Green Shift” may partly be a victim of the looming economic downturn in Canada. However, the speaker believes that Liberal Party problems could go deeper, with roots attached to previous leaders Jean Cretian and Paul Martin. Stephane Dion, he feels, has not managed to gain the trust of Canadian voters. His leadership ratings are low, according to the latest opinion polls. More election goodies are bound to be announced and a majority Government is still a possibility. But voter apathy, performances at the Leadership Debate and the ability of candidates to refrain from making controversial statements are all influencing factors. The speaker will explore several election scenarios and make fearless predictions. Speaker: Peter McCormick Dr. Peter McCormick is a professor and the Chair of the Political Science Department at the University of Lethbridge, where he teaches Canadian Government Politics and Constitutional Law. He holds degrees from the University of Alberta (BA 68), the University of Toronto (MA 69) and the London School of Economics (PhD 74). Dr. McCormick is heard regularly on CBC radio and is often quoted in the national news media. Date: Thursday, October 2, 2008 Time: 12 noon - 1:30 p.m. Location: Country Kitchen Catering (Lower level of The Keg) 1715 Mayor Magrath Dr. S. Cost: $10.00 (includes lunch)