Economy linked to social justice - Liberals

He also said the federal Conservatives need to realize there is a direct link between “social justice” issues, environmental sustainability and economic prosperity.

Dion attended a Liberal fundraiser at White Point Beach Resort after spending the day touring the riding with South Shore St. Margaret’s Liberal candidate, Dr. Bill Smith. The packed fundraiser was attended by MLAs and MPs from across the province.

Dr. Smith, while introducing Dion, used a common phrase about the weather to describe area MP Gerald Keddy’s position on the Atlantic Accord.

“I have not seen the weather change as often as Mr. Keddy has on the Atlantic Accord.” He said Keddy has lost his “credibility” as a result.

Dion added during his speech, “The main thing I hear from people is they want a Prime Minister they can trust. The relationship of trust has been broken.”

Dr. Smith said Dion is unlike Keddy and Prime Minister Stephen Harper in that he would honour the Atlantic Accord, Canada’s environmental commitments and universal programs like childcare.

“I’ve come to have a deep respect for your integrity, intelligence and for your vision. Having said that sir, do you realize you’re a lot like me?” The crowd burst into laughter.

“That might not be readily obvious to you or to anyone in this room,” he added with a smile.

Dion said, after spending the day with Dr. Smith, the candidate has an excellent ability “to read the people, to understand their problems.”

He said educating people to give them the skills they need to work, helping provide childcare, promoting good early childhood development, and helping Canadians through reducing poverty by “sharing the wealth,” will also grow the economy.

He said the Conservatives see “social programs as a burden on the economy.”

He chastised the Harper government for replacing the Liberal childcare plan with some money that isn’t helping those who need it.

“It’s all an investment in the future to ensure the children will have the potential to be successful in life.”

He said Canada could also benefit economically from the immediate need to reduce pollution and curb global warming because of the country’s ability to create and export technology and expertise.

He explained Canada must do its part to curb greenhouse gas emissions but can help other countries do so as well because it is a global problem.

He said environmental sustainability is now linked with economic growth and social justice issues but that Prime Minister Harper won’t make the “difficult decisions that must be made.

“They won’t be made unless you have fire in your eyes when you say it. I do not believe him. He will delay action. He will pretend. He will spend a lot of money on spin-doctoring but I need the real doctor.”

The crowd laughed as the Dr. Smith joke came out of no-where.