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NDP plans legal action to block satellite sale

ANNE MCILROY

From Monday's Globe and Mail

Latest comment posted at 6:41 PM EDT 06/04/08

Jack Layton is planning legal action to block the sale of part of Canada's leading aerospace company to a U.S. weapons and space contractor ...Read the full article

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  1. Ed Long from white Rock, Canada writes: Why are Canadian governments, of any stripe, so willing to allow our intellectual property and technology be sold off?

    Are we always going to be hewers of wood, pumpers of oil and assemblers of other people's cars?
  2. C. O. from Toronto, Canada writes: With the Conservatives really let this sale go throug?? I tolerate their socially conservative positions because i believe they're also a nationalist party-they should not need the NDP to point out this sale is a mistake!
  3. Erik Richards from Winnipeg, MB, writes: I hope the Conservatives see this for the potential security risk it is, to say nothing of the potential PR disaster.
  4. Roop Misir from Toronto, Canada writes:
    Is Canada still open for business?
  5. James C from Chaozhou, Guangdong, China writes: i think i agree with jack layton on this one. something i almost never do. but i think he's right on this.
  6. Kevin Desmoulin from Toronto, Canada writes: It would pretty stupid to sell the one piece of equipment and the Tech to monitor our North West Passage to the US a country that does not think it is our territory despite the fact it was Canadian RCMP officer Henry Larsen on the St Roch was the 2nd to sail it from west to east 1940 and back west again in 44.
  7. Jimmy K from Toronto, Canada writes: At least someone is 'Standing up for Canada'.

    Honk honk.
  8. Richard Soley from writes: JAck Layton, politican and statesmen, but not a business man. I wonder how Mr. Layton thinks he will keep the company viable and the talent well paid and in Canada if he prevents the sale? The results of tinkering in the market by uneducated politicans has unintended consquences, history has proven time and again that the less interference the better. Canada will be secure with this sale and may perhaps bennifit if it is constructed properly, more business and more customers, more work and more access to research and development. but the NDP will make it's case!
  9. Alberta Separatist from Canada writes: Taliban Jack is grandstanding again!! Doesn't he ever get it --people see him for what he is--a wind up toy saying 'ordinary Canadians', 'working Canadians', 'the country is going in the wrong direction' while fewer and fewer support his Party.
    I'm betting that the Conservatives turn down the sale!!
  10. Fred Heff from cowtownCalgary, Canada writes: Will all the employees be 'Bees '
  11. Ian Gunn from Minneapolis, United States writes: I'm very much a free market person, except in strategic industries. Space is something Canada can get into relatively 'cheap'. It should be a strategic industry. Whether the CPC see the same thing, a few weeks will tell.

    Mr Layton's heart is in the right place on this. Mr Layton, for once, well done.
  12. Big D from Canada writes: Why is it that virtually everyone who posts on ROB/Investment boards have no idea what they are talking about? First, the government has no legal grounds to block the sale under the Investment Canada act. It doesn’t include a provision to consider national security – it’s basically considers thins such as job loss & creation, taxation, etc. The only sales that have been blocked have been cultural ones, not because people didn’t care about other ones rather it is a protected consideration (i.e. Canadian content and telecom foreign ownership rules). But there is no solid ground to block this one. Secondly, the reason they can decline the sale of the license is because the government is the LICENSOR. While American laws may stipulate Aliant provide access, Canada can turn off the switch. Its owned and operated from Canada. As far as the $400 million in tax-payer funding, how about we actually then consider the tax revenues of a $1.3 billion deal net-of-tax. Let’s assume a 30% mtr, $1.3b/.7=$1.86b, $1.86b-$1.3b=$560mm in tax revenues or a 40% holding period return; I will assume that there is no point to discussing the PVA of the potential tax revenues from MDAs investments in their Info Products division which is 70% of EBITDA and the fastest growing division of the company but was valued at less than 1/3 at the offer price for the Info Systems division based on market cap – you probability already ran the sensitivity analysis.
  13. Tim Cares from Canada writes: Does anyone thing the Americans would let this kind of business be sold to foreign interests?
  14. Ed Long from white Rock, Canada writes: Richard Soley agrees that a sale benefit may include 'more access to research and development'

    But, that is a the point and I am not a Layton supporter. At some time, Canada must decide to develop and protect native research and development, innovation and resultant intellectual property and technology.

    It's not a one deal, one term, one budget issue. It represents decades of focussed public, corporate and labour policy that will benefit two or three generations from now.

    The template is Germany, South Korea, Japan, the United States and, now, even China is repatriating its intellectual talent ... they don't plan on being assemblers for ever.

    There is always Canada.

    Dream big or go home.
    t pat it
  15. Gary Casey from Canada writes: If we could put aside our partisan politics, we might see that Layton has a good point.
  16. G Montcler from Canada writes: Why did the US government block the sale of Eastern ports to Arab interests?
    Why is Norway keeping a majority interest in Statoil?
    Why is Putin re-purchasing the oil and gaz companies?
    Why are the French keeping a majority stake in Alstom?
    etc. etc.
    Because they have more vision than our Canadian (un)-leaders!
  17. David K from Guelph, Canada writes: In MDA we have a classic 'value added' industry, the kind that can grow and provide good paying jobs to Canadians with all the spin offs associated. It has the additional virtue that our graduates from science and engineering programs have a place to go without leaving Canada. The very existence of companies like MDA is an incentive for our young people to get involved in engineering and sciences as they know that a top flight company that operates at the cutting edge is also a Canadian company. If Alliant takes over look for the ideas and the brains to be moved south leaving an empty building and another hole in our economy. This is 'Standing Up For Canada'?

    It has been argued that the shareholders of MDA have voted for the sale and that this justifies the sale for 'market' reasons. I would submit that the Canadian taxpayer also has a stake in this company to the tune of several hundred million dollars so we too should be considered 'shareholders' and should have a voice as to the fate of our investment and the jobs that have been created by that investment. What does this say about our national image that we can develop a leading company in space research and then let it slip away? Are we not interested in space anymore?

    The proposed buyer, Alliant, has a most unsavoury reputation as a manufacturer of, among other things, cluster bombs and depleted uranium shells. Is there no ethical standard at work here or is this just 'business' and nothing for us to worry about?

    Well done Jack Layton, at least someone cares about those little things like Canadian jobs, research and development, science, and ethics.
  18. Rachel .. commenting from Hollywood North, Canada writes: We are part of the alliance with NATO and NORAD. We have extensive economic cooperation and part of NAFTA. The U.S. industry has equally sophisticated technology as ours. If the sale is to non traditional allies, then there may be a reason to possibly block it.

    This grandstanding by Layton is to create a soundbite in election time about the Tories 'selling out' our Canadian interest. Nuisance and crass petty politics, how about a trade? We keep the company and we sell Jack instead.

    P.S. 'Dirty Politics (2008)' starring Howard Hessman of WKRP fame is coming soon. The kooky behaviour of Jack makes Dr. Johnny Fever looks normal.
  19. Ontario Taxpayer from Ottawa, Canada writes: Jack......great PR buddy..........that is all it is...........great PR and politics......another way for Jack Layton to get hos sorry face on TV. He has no legal grounds to stop this. Only the Minister can, and as already stated, over licensing issues only. Educate yourself people.......your comments are only making you look foolish!
  20. Nassar Ben Houdja from Canada writes: If Canadain business is so good, what aren't Canadians investing in it?
  21. M. O. from Canada writes: Big D from Canada writes:

    'It doesn’t include a provision to consider national security &8211; it&8217;s basically considers thins such as job loss & creation, taxation, etc'
    -----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
    If MDA falls into US hands, then the ITARS (International Trade in Arms Regulations) will apply big time, and many Canadians of foreign origin could potentially be banned from working for the company.

    Perhaps no jobs will be lost, but job opportunities for some of our best and brightest scientific minds could well be restricted.
  22. Mei-Xing Xu from Canada writes: I think I actually agree with Jack this time.
  23. Stude Ham from Outremont, Canada writes: jack would have more luck on this one if he simply brought down the government his party so valiantly helped to get get into power.
  24. Ken Ontario from Canada writes: So long as the NDP eat their own legal costs and not the taxpayers then so be it, they can do whatever they want. As too the comment who is going to protect the 400 million of Cdn Taxpayers investment in the country, well seriously folks, do you not think previous govts should of thought of that when they were cutting the check and not about what color tie to wear during the photo op.
  25. Dr Demento from Canada writes: Layton is completely correct on this issue. Ownership of this world-leading technology, which has strategic implications for Canada's Arctic sovereignty, must remain in Canada - particulary since Canadian tax payers have invested hundreds of millions of dollars.
  26. sean smith from Canada writes: Its about time someone stood up for Canada! If this sale goes through it has the potential to set back our aerospace industry for a generation like a previous Conservative government did with the Avro Arrow.
  27. Beer and Popcorn from Toronto, Canada writes: What does Jack know about innovation?
  28. Umm... Toronto from Canada writes: You idiots who think nothing exists beyond business concerns should go and live in the real world for a change. It's better that the company fold than that satalite fall into American hands. This is a BIG deal. This is about Canada remaining an independent, capable, country. Layton is right on here (never thought I'd write that). This technology is important. If the Americans gained the tech via espianoge the Conservatives would be in a tizzy. But if it's a business deal that sells national interests down the river, well that's peachy keen, isn't it Steveo.
  29. BC Bud from Vancouver, Canada writes: Way to go Jack - don't agree with him on much but I do this time. Subcontracting on the RADARSAT project was an important contract in launching our software company that now employs 70 people and growing.
  30. Steve Smith from Canada writes: I agree with the nposater that suggests that this legal action should be at the NDP's cost, particularly if it is turned down in a court. And if anyone wants to sue the NDP party for financial damage due nto a delay in the sale, I sincerelynhope the NDP's will buck up (or at least their supporters). Lets put this party out to pasture once and for all. there is really only enough room for 3 or 4 parties in Canada and the NDP is a fringe fifth.
  31. M M from SK, Canada writes: Gee I thought America was our ally - oh I forgot this is the G & M website.
  32. r b from Calgary, Canada writes: Keep swinging wee Jackie.

    You're bound to make contact one of these days.

    Even a foul tip would seem like a moral victory, when compared to your endless string of strikeouts to date.
  33. Bryan London Ontario from Canada writes: Umm... Toronto from Canada writes: You idiots who think nothing exists beyond business concerns should go and live in the real world for a change.

    Umm... Toronto: you should really replace 'business concerns' with 'the GTA boundary!' You seem to forget that it was a Liberal government who allowed the company to become a private organization after recieving all the government grants. But hey don't let any actual facts get in the way of your I hate Harper rant!
  34. Joe Calgarian from Canada writes: Wow, I hate to say it, but for once I agree with Mr. Layton on something.
  35. Beer and Popcorn from Toronto, Canada writes: Umm... Toronto from Canada - government has never shown one inclination that they have any clue how to run a business or develop assets, let alone sohpistocated technology. They are right to sell it before it ends up in with the other out of date technology we have developed and is now useless and worthless.

    Resources are another story though. Too bad we didn't still own the Hybernia assets that Cretin sold - could you imagine what they would now be worth with oil $100 per barrell?
  36. Honesty is the best Policy from Canada writes: Lets have ALL parties put Canada first. Being open for business does not mean giving away strategic industries. If the legal angle is the only way then I guess we need it. It would be better if the Minister responsible acts in the interest of our country rather than some foreign corporation.
  37. Sayless Thinkmore from Toronto, Canada writes: I generally prefer to tear a strip off Jack and his bark-munching minions, but I'll give him a pat on the back for this one.
  38. Closely Watching from Canada writes: Jack could not beat the banks on his dumb ATM fee crusade so I guess this is his latest march to save Canadians from the forces of capitalism.
  39. Saskatchewan Seal Hunter Club from Canada writes: James C from Chaozhou, Guangdong, China writes: i think i agree with jack layton on this one. something i almost never do. but i think he's right on this.

    This world, including Canada, is run by big corporations.......and Jack Layton is going to stop them????????.........get real.
  40. Beer and Popcorn from Toronto, Canada writes: I do give Jack credit though - his party is at least showing up for votes, taking positions and fufilling their parliamentary function on behalf of Canadians
  41. C R from Canada writes: Thank you NDP.
  42. Saskatchewan Seal Hunter Club from Canada writes: Just out of curiosity......how many people that post on this site, work for companies or corporations that are foriegn owned?
  43. martha stewart from Canada writes: We should at least get the $400 million tax dollars we put into this company from the proceeds. Sue for that.

    The moral of this story is that globalization now rules and governments should not be pouring zillions of dollars into companies that can then sell out when opportunity arises.

    Have we stopped pouring buckets of cash into Canada's biggest welfare case, Bombardier, yet?

    That said, I wish this company could stay in Canada. But I also wonder where all the stockholders live? They could stop this.
  44. Dana Cruickshank from Canada writes: Probably over half.

    I don't really know if it is correct or not to sell assets to American companies, but I do know that the americans probably know more about Canadian defense technology than our own government, and thats due to NDP type policies of not spending anything on our own defence.

    But, is it really the NDPs position to take someone to court over this? I'm not really sure. I kind of feel that they should keep their politics in the house of commons, but at the same time they should be allowed to do what they think is right.
  45. P Jones from NB, Canada writes: All I know is that this sale would be a bad thing for Canada. It will be the same fall out as that which happened with the Arrow. Mind you, that project was killed by a 'conservative' party as well.
  46. Erica the Red from Canada writes: Can anybody say 'Avro Arrow'?

    Jack bugs me to no end... but he's right on this one.
  47. Scott O from Canada writes: What 90% of people who post on this board do not realize is that the government doesn't 'own' this company and are not 'selling' this company to American interests who will then 'steal' technology from poor Canadians. The company is owned by shareholders (many or most of which are foreign anyways) and only exists to make money and is being sold to another company which also exits to make money. There is no grand political conspiracy and the company will continue to carry on business in much the same way regardless of ownership. Canadians will still have jobs and will produce the same products as before. Foreign investment is good for this country and produces more jobs (ask virtually any economist). This deal will probably create more Canadian jobs and technology because the new owners have the financial and technological resources and market power to make better use of the new acquistion and grow market share, make new investments in this country. The NDP just capitalizes on populist rhetoric that equates foreign ownership with pillaging our nation and leaving nothing behind. It is simply not true. Has 100% foreign ownership in the auto sector meant less jobs and innovation in this country?
  48. r b from Calgary, Canada writes: Most hilarious part of this entire charade?

    This crucial Canadian technology, so central to our sovereignty, so critical to Canadian science, is launched using American space vehicles.

    Yes, that's right: The Yanks, who are so deeply involved in plots to subvert Canadian sovereignty, have somehow been tricked into launching these Canadian satellites that, according to Layton and his band of conspiracy dreamers, are Canada's last line of defence against the scheming Americans.

    Good thing too.. We couldn't get a satellite into orbit on our own if our national lives depended on it. We would need a 10 year series of Royal Commissions, and would need to ensure that national diversity was preserved above all else. About the time we finally pierced the Earth's atmosphere with our maple syrup powered , zero emission bottle rocket, the Yanks would be completing their manned mission to Mars.

    Oh well, maybe we are working on a secret 'space slingshot' somewhere deep in the bowels of the Canadian Space Agency.
  49. Mr. Justice from Canada writes: GOOD MOVE, N.D.P.

    The Tories (especially, but also the Libbies) will be upset, because this move is PRO-Canada.
  50. M. O. from Canada writes: I hate to break it to you, r b, but Radarsat 2 was launched from the Baikonur Cosmodrome in Kazahkstan.

    To my knowledge, the Americans do not control that launch site (yet).
  51. Jesse Winger from Calgary, Canada writes: Layton is absolutely right: we should never sell off this taxpayer funded jewel of Canadian technology to an American arms merchant - or anyone else for that matter!

    The Cons dumped the world leading AVRO Arrow to appease the Americans: let's not ever let 'em do it AGAIN!
  52. Bill Tweezer from Canada writes: Best thing the NDP has ever did, even me as a Conservative would hold my head in shame if this deal went through.
  53. mike sty - from IMO Toms apology I'm sorry.....I'm very sorry..........Im sorry I was caught,....is less provocative than...., Canada writes: r b from Calgary, Canada writes: Most hilarious part of this entire charade?

    This crucial Canadian technology, so central to our sovereignty, so critical to Canadian science, is launched using American space vehicles.

    Yes, that's right: The Yanks, who are so deeply involved in plots to subvert Canadian
    -------------------------------------

    LIAR

    This satellite was launched by the Russions
  54. The Special One... I Am Fantastic from Canada writes: If the NDP block this sale and then the company goes belly up will Jack personally find jobs for these people? Not saying it will happen but what if?
  55. Kenneth Yurchuk from Toronto, Canada writes: Funny, even the folks taking partisan shots at Layton, agree he's right on the money with this. Finally we have a politician going to court for something worthwhile, instead of a trumped up libel suit..

    Well done Jack.
  56. Prairie Boy from Canada writes: Where would the only flag that used to be the only one on the shuttle be if it never left Canada. We do not exist in a vacuum.

    We retain control of information. In case Mr Layton and the garbage dipping Richelea Institute haven't figured it out yet, we cannot stop the US from doing anything. Oh sure we can hold our breath till we turn blue but...
  57. Ed Long from white Rock, Canada writes: Scott O writes ...'Has 100% foreign ownership in the auto sector meant less jobs and innovation in this country?'

    Have you been reading the business news, Scott? The Ontario industrial base, largely built upon auto assembling and associated businesses, is having a tough time. Why? Certainly a high loonie, but also preferential agreements negotiated with American unions that now make the Canadian social safety net, ie. Medicare, less of a cost savings for cars assembled in Canada. Previously, the unit saving was approximately $1500/car.

    I am no fan of mommy socialism.

    Equally, I do not agree with daddy dependency ... the U.S. will take care of us.

    Prosperity in the 21st century will depend upon innovation and intellectual property.
  58. dean spence from Canada writes: So Jack 'chavez' Layton attempts to confiscate private property. what reason will there be for anyone else to create innovative products, knowing that they can be taken or controlled by a heavy handed political party. Why not move the whole enterprise to the U.S. and know you can get a good price for your efforts?
    Why do you people think you own someone else's property? Have you considered moving to Venezuela?
  59. Daniel Cunningham from Victoria, writes: I love it - the NDP currently has a bigger pair than the Cons! Go NDP!
  60. Rachel .. commenting from Hollywood North, Canada writes: What technology secrets are we protecting? This govt funded company's blueprints are all in the garbage dump, waiting for the NDP friendly Richleau Institute garbage digging team to find.

    Serioiusly, in special circumstances we should block sale of a vital national interest, especially to a non ally. This does not seem to be the case. Playing partisan politics is hardly the best way to prevent this.
  61. Jesse Winger from Calgary, Canada writes: dean spence from Canada writes: 'So Jack 'chavez' Layton attempts to confiscate private property. what reason will there be for anyone else to create innovative products, knowing that they can be taken or controlled by a heavy handed political party. Why not move the whole enterprise to the U.S. and know you can get a good price for your efforts?
    Why do you people think you own someone else's property? Have you considered moving to Venezuela?'

    We, the Canadian taxpayer, poured HALF A BILLION DOLLARS into this satellite. IT IS OURS! Don't give us the gears, buddy.
  62. The Globing Male from these here, United States writes: 'Umm... Toronto from Canada writes: You idiots who think nothing exists beyond business concerns should go and live in the real world for a change. It's better that the company fold than that satalite fall into American hands.'

    ...Easy to say when it's not YOUR job on the line. You socialists just don't get it.
  63. Doctor Jimmy and mister Jim from Canada writes:

    Thanks to about $500-million from taxpayers, MDA built and launched Radarsat-2, a state-of-the-art observation satellite that can see through clouds and nighttime cover.

    There have been concerns about whether Canada would still have priority access to Radarsat-2 images from the country's northern regions.

    Radarsat-2, MDA is involved in the Canadian Forces' Polar Epsilon project, which would provide the military with up-to-date, all-weather images of the country's oceans and Arctic region.

    The US refused to launch Radarsat-2 and it was launched by the Russians. Who's to believe that once in the Americans hands what priority if any would Canada's requests have. Alliant, the purchasing company does 100% of its business to the US military. Weapons of mass destruction. (Ding, Ding, Ding, Ding, best in the world state-of-the-art observation satellite that can see through clouds and nighttime cover, to the US military.....connect the dots folks) Keeping this in OUR hands will go a long way to protecting OUR sovereignty and slowing the US of A militarization of space. From my understanding there are over 2,000 people employed there. These are not burger fryers or fast food assemblers. Very highly skilled and trained people, jobs that attract people to Canada, jobs for our highly trained young people, jobs of the future. Half the purchase price of MDA has been Canadian taxpayer funded, 50%of this company belongs to Canadians it should stay with Canadians.
  64. Public Apologizer from Winnipeg, Canada writes: '...Easy to say when it's not YOUR job on the line. You socialists just don't get it.'

    If you place your job above ethics than it is you who just doesn't get it. Canada is about more than simplistic profit margins, it is about having a higher ethical code. We are the country that found to ban illegal weapons such as landmines. How could we hypocritically sellout our aerospace science to a company that sells weapons of mass destruction as a business model.

    This is akin as selling Canadian research into children's socialisation to American tobacco corporations in order for them to better understand how to get our kids hooked on nicotine. Not only is it incredibly stupid, it's reprehensible.

    Jack is right. This sale should be blocked.

    Shall we forget about the partisan bickering and debate the issues? Or is that too much to ask of the 'ignorance is bliss' crowd?
  65. garlick toast from Canada writes: if it goes to the states,how long before china owns it?
  66. S G from Montreal, Canada writes: Think about the impact of this issue and not who says what. I don't care if a conservative, liberal, socialist, commie, right-wing nut or WHOEVER says it: protecting Canada's sovereignty as a nation is more important than one company or its employees. There are a lot of companies going under, and no one seems to care down south about 'buying them out.' But this is a strategic and valuable venture with enormous risks for world security. Canada MUST retain control of this technology and the satellite. Otherwise, in 50 years, when we are all grappling with our version of the Patriot Act and the economy of Canada is floundering while more and more of our resources are sucked south to feed a handful of greedy trillionaires, we will look back as old people (those of us who'll still be here that is) and say: our country never even deserved what it had, because it was managed so poorly. This sale must be stopped at all costs. I don't know why everyone has such a harsh view of Jack Layton, who has moved the NDP towards the centre and who actually has stood up on a number of issues. If anything, the BQ is a fringe, one province party; the conservatives are a patchwork of variable opinions currently sharing a tent and who will fall apart again in 5 years; the Greens don't have a single MP and won't next time, either; so why exactly is the NDP (who has a growing presence federally and a strong provincial wing in every province and territory) a fringe party? It's not. In fact, it represents the views of the largest number of Canadians, it simply hasn't been able to connect with enough of them yet. But it will, especially if Mr. Layton is able to read the pulse of the nation and stand up on issues as obvious and clear as this one.
  67. p m from Canada writes: Industry Minister Jim Prentice has until April 21 to block the sale under the Investment Canada Act, if he deems it is not in Canada's interests.

    This is a bloody no-brainer!!

    If Harper lets it go through, he should be impeached! stripped of his citizenship and sent down to live with GWB on the ranch shovelling cows**t!
  68. Fuzzy Bare from Ontario (Not Toronto), Canada writes: mike sty, you wrote


    'r b from Calgary, Canada writes: Most hilarious part of this entire charade?

    This crucial Canadian technology, so central to our sovereignty, so critical to Canadian science, is launched using American space vehicles.

    Yes, that's right: The Yanks, who are so deeply involved in plots to subvert Canadian
    -------------------------------------

    LIAR

    This satellite was launched by the Russions '


    sty, you are right on one thing. There is a LIAR in the comment and in this case the LIAR is 'mike sty'


    The MDA RADARSAT-2 Satellite was launched on Dec 14, 2007 in The Republic of Kazakhstan. The Repubic of Kazakhstan is an independent country, borders on the Caspian Sea, Russia, China and other countries. Kazakhstan is NOT part of Russia.


    sty, you tend to go off half-cocked with your smears and accusations. If you took a bit of time and reasearched your topic, you might get it right, once in awhile.
  69. mike sty - from IMO Toms apology I'm sorry.....I'm very sorry..........Im sorry I was caught,....is less provocative than...., Canada writes: Fuzzy Bare a bit of time and reasearched your topic,

    Topic is blocking satellite sale.
    Try to stick to the topic, dude.
    Rather than constantly attacking other posters who don't share your narrow view why not comment on the above topic???

    By the way
    Soyuz II being provided by Starsem. This company is 50% European and 50% Russian. This is what launched radarsat 2 not american space vehicles as rb stated.
    http://www.esa.int/esaMI/ESAPermanentMissioninRussia/SEMAM1X4QWD_2.html

    fuz, you tend to go off half-cocked with your smears and accusations. If you took a bit of time and researched your topic, you might get it right, once in awhile.
  70. M Warren from Other, Canada writes: Canadian technology should serve Canadian purposes first. Layton is on the money on this one, and kudos to the NDP for exposing the treachery of these scripted CPC's poodles and their hapless Liberal allies. A side note: As Mulcair's visibility in Quebec grows, more of the BQ support will go to the NDP than it ever could to Harper.
  71. jack sprat from Canada writes: harpers buddy is the lead lobbyist on this. I expect one thing to be said in public and side deals done in private....that is the Harper way

    Income trusts, Cadman, Mulroney, Atlantic Accord. Say one thing do another. His record speaks for itself.

    You cannot trust harper.
  72. Maria Loi from Vancouver, Canada writes: Jack, please do it, we had lost enough to our Big Brother already!
    May God bless Canada
    May Buddha enlightens us!
  73. marty mac from Canada writes: I am sure that if the sale was blocked, many would jumping with a new nationalistic fervor not seen in many a year. However would they still be happy in a few years from now when the company goes under from a lack of orders. The maintenance of one satellite will not keep the company viable. Unless the Government is willing to get into the space game in a big way, all the blocked sale will accomplish is a bankrupt company and litigation from the stockholders which in the end will cost the taxpayers a lot of money with nothing to show for it. I am no expert, but I do know that if you buy a ice sculpture with no means of keeping it frozen, all you will end up with is one large puddle of water.
  74. Kyle McIver from Canada writes: Richard Soley from writes: ...The results of tinkering in the market by uneducated politicans has unintended consquences, history has proven time and again that the less interference the better
    * Posted 06/04/08 at 7:03 PM EDT

    Hey buddy,
    Sooooooo less government interference is the magic key for things work nice and dandy....kinda like it worked with the sub-prime mortgage shizashow in the US?
  75. Kyle McIver from Canada writes: From what I understand, RADARSAT II is the cream of the international crop in terms of this kind of imaging, and what it currently outputs isn't even what it is capable of (b/c it was actually 'too' good...wink wink nudge nudge). Seeing as we have the best technology, why not launch other satellites using the technology, the company and more importantly the technology can stay in Canadian hands, and for a change we can charge other people to use it.
    Or is that being too un-Canadian????
  76. Ron Shaw from Toronto, Canada writes: Canada protect sovereignty against US wishes? Give me a break.
  77. X. T. from Canada writes: Should be 'An irrelevant federal political party plans to take on something significant'.

    Who cares?
  78. M. R. from Canada writes:

    At least make MDI pay back our 1/2 Billion Dollars!
  79. Doctor Jimmy and mister Jim from Canada writes: Steve Cortese, the Washington vice-president for Alliant Techsystems told a House of Commons committee that while Canadian government control over the Radarsat-2 is guaranteed under the country's agreement with MDA, the next generation of the satellites wouldn't be bound to the same guarantees.

    The comments, toward the end of a two-hour session of the standing committee on industry, science and technology, raised the issue that even if the Canadian government maintains control over Radarsat-2 imagery, it might lose command of that technology when the satellite expires in seven to 10 years.
  80. M. R. from Canada writes: 'Last week, MDA president Daniel Friedman told the House of Commons industry committee that Ottawa will retain legal control over the flow of data from the satellite no matter who owns the company.'

    uh NOPE . . . what Friedman actually said was:

    'Radarsat-2 is licensed to operate by the Canadian government, and ownership of the parent firm has no bearing on that relationship, Mr. Friedmann promised. 'AS FAR AS I CAN TELL, it's a Canadian operation under Canadian law running a Canadian satellite,' he said'

    'as far as I can tell' huh?

    Crykie . . . if Friedman doesn't know who the hell does?
  81. Kenneth Yurchuk from Toronto, Canada writes: 1/2 billion, my A$$. What was that company worth before we as taxpayers ponied up that development capital? A few pennies a share? I'd be willing to guess that without the investment of capital by the government, that the Radarsat would never have been developed. Demand value for our investment. Keep ownership here. This is one case where nationalization would be justified.
  82. Bryan London Ontario from Canada writes: Hey jack sprat are you sure you are not Jack Layton? You seem to be full of conspiracy theories with no evidence to back anything up! Political hacks like you are a waste on these boards and should just take your meds and go back to bed.

    You cannot trust Jack Sprat.
  83. Anna Elizabeth from Canada writes: Perhaps Frank Stronach could buy it !
  84. Northern Princess from Canada writes: Gulp!!!!! I hate to say it ... but for once I agree with Jacko! Many of our purely Canadian inventions/research etc have all been sold or given away ... how are we ever going to be known as a serious country when our CANADIAN ingenuities are being sold off one by one.

    Keep 'Made in CANADA' in Canada!
  85. Balboa R. from Toronto, Canada writes: So, let me get this straight. We are worried about security risk from this company being owned by the US yet we let in terrorist and terrorist supporters from other countries and call them Canadian. Thanks Jack, you are so intelligent. I guess he needs to be in the press given noone care about him or his party.
  86. Michael Sharp from Victoria, Canada writes:

    Oh Gawd, are we still on about this stupid robot arm and the compromise to Canadian saftey should the Americans get a hold of it?

    I can't believe the naivete.

    Anybody remeber the Cold War?
    The Soviets going to nuke the States going to nuke the Soviets?

    Guess who was in between the Soviets and the States and their many nukes?
    Canada.

    You guys don't think for a minute that we didn't work VERY CLOSELY with the US to protect our mutual interests?
    As in, prevent North America from turning into glass.

    The flip side to this intimacy is that WE KNOW what they do as well.

    Don't kid yourselves.
  87. J S from Toronto, Canada writes: 'Ben SGT/USMC from United States writes:

    Jake: [fakes accent] How much for the little girl? How much for the women?
    Father: What?
    Jake: Your women. I want to buy your women. The little girl, your daughters... sell them to me. Sell me your children.'

    Thanks for the laugh!!
  88. janfromthe bruce from Canada writes: On this Jack Layton is right on - way to go NDP - standing up for Canada
  89. Michael Sharp from Victoria, Canada writes:

    Ben SGT/USMC from United States...

    Sell me your children.
    That's funny.

    Sgt. Ben, US marine, is pretty funny, too.
    That's freaking 'em out in Toronto-Danforth.

    It's the guns in the streets.

    Funny stuff, man.
  90. Dr Demento from Canada writes:

    Apparently Michael Sharp from Victoria doesn't know the difference between a space station robot arm and an imaging satellite. No wonder he makes no sense . . .
  91. Elmo Harris from Niagara, Canada writes: I'm with Jack on this one.
  92. Bernie Mettbach from Canada writes: The fact that I agree wholeheartedly with Mr. Layton on this matter should not be construed as an endorsement of the Layton agenda. The sale of this vital Canadian asset is just another example of ineptitude or is it intentional indifference to the most fundamental role or should I say responsibility of government. The rubber stamp that Harper uses to green light this monstrous sell-out of the many of the most important strategic assets Canadians have built with their own blood sweat and now our tears of sorrow for having lost even more while Conservatives cheer on the sell off of everything to the highest bidder at the expense of the Canadian taxpayer, and at the peril of Canadian souvereignty, security and the apparent wasting of a half-a–billion dollar Canadian investment in technology that is vital to our Canadian nation. The entire matter boils down to this, Conservative sell-offs are not going to further Canada. Instead, the sell-offs are a gift to American interests that have historically profited at our expense. In this case, they are doing more than simple earning a clever profit; they are endangering our country’s future. Dion must defeat Harper on the immigration bill and force Harper to back down on several issues. If he contiues to let Harper get away with this, the Liberal brand will suffer an even worse fate than it did as a result of the mishandled adscam. Either the election no one wants is going to test Dion’s meddle, or he must resign and let Bob Rae take on Harper at the polls now. Dion isn’t entirely impotent. He still has options to keep Harper from treating him like a doormat.
  93. Bernie Mettbach from Canada writes: The fact that I agree wholeheartedly with Mr. Layton on this matter should not be construed as an endorsement of the Layton agenda. The sale of this vital Canadian asset is just another example of ineptitude or is it intentional indifference to the most fundamental role or should I say responsibility of government. The rubber stamp that Harper uses to green light this monstrous sell-out of the many of the most important strategic assets Canadians have built with their own blood sweat and now our tears of sorrow for having lost even more while Conservatives cheer on the sell off of everything to the highest bidder at the expense of the Canadian taxpayer, and at the peril of Canadian souvereignty, security and the apparent wasting of a half-a–billion dollar Canadian investment in technology that is vital to our Canadian nation. The entire matter boils down to this, Conservative sell-offs are not going to further Canada. Instead, the sell-offs are a gift to American interests that have historically profited at our expense. In this case, they are doing more than simple earning a clever profit; they are endangering our country’s future. Dion must defeat Harper on the immigration bill and force Harper to back down on several issues. If he contiues to let Harper get away with this, the Liberal brand will suffer an even worse fate than it did as a result of the mishandled adscam. Either the election no one wants is going to test Dion’s meddle, or he must resign and let Bob Rae take on Harper at the polls now. Dion isn’t entirely impotent. He still has options to keep Harper from treating him like a doormat.
  94. B smith from toronto, Canada writes: I agree wholeheartedly with Jack Layton. Finally, a politician with 'balls'! We don't have to submit to america everytime it's about Personal Greed...Canada is it's own country..We should also develop our own Car Company, Motorcycle company, Computer Laptop companies, Robotics Companies, etc.
  95. The Last Honest Conservative from Western, Canada writes:
    Roop Misir from Toronto wrote:
    Is Canada still open for business?

    yes Roop,
    Our military is being sold to the highest bidder ..............
  96. John Hanson from Canada writes: It appears most of the comments are supportive of Jack Layton by what I can assume are people that are somewhat familiar with some of the more high-falutin risks of giving up seminal technology like this.
    As a businessman I think sales of world class technologies by a benevolent democracy such as ours adds to our overall perceived high value as a business and technology partner by other countries. The key is....that we retain the learnings and continue to grow in the sector.

    If this is the best of a certain type of satellite or high technology research and development organization, it is already established here in Canada, and it gives us a measure of control and security of our boundaries through a high quality of information, then why are we going to filter that information through the Patriot Act? Doesn't MDC have the wherewithall to sell the information from the technology to the countries that would like to buy it or is this just a business opportunity to flip a fledgling Canadian strategic investment (by this I mean subsidized by Canadian grants and awards) in return for cash that will be equally distributed amongst a cadre of near-retirees too weary to suck at the military teat any longer.

    Run Jack run...make MDC show to all of the rest of Canada how they intend to retain the learnings in Canada and that these 'learned up' individuals will be able to apply their world class skills in a competitive environment made up of many companies competing in the market space (or should I say space market) based in Canada...eventually leading to prominence in the field for OUR nation in the skill-set.

    If this fails...then have MDC pay back the awards and grants supplied by the people for the technology developed, to the people.

    I suggest that Jack consider putting The Bombardier Class C and their planned move to the US on a docket in the same court-room.
  97. A Millbank from Nanaimo, Canada writes: The Conservatives have a very long history of selling Canada out to the Americans. I mean they were also responsible for the Avro Arrow's demise and now this... Arrowgate 2
  98. Fake Name from Canada writes: Sounds to me like the promises that we'll retain control on the satellite's imagery aren't worth much if the US can supersede the owner's contractual obligations to Ottawa with a national security demand. We'd get to sue them for breach of contract and have the results ignored, just like on softwood, or the suit thrown out entirely, under government liability protection like the US telecom companies involved in criminal wiretapping. It's not as though we have the ability to physically take the satellite back if they screw us after the sale.

    If this satellite design is so hot (sufficiently better than the american ones that they refused to let us buy space on a launcher, to try to keep their tech the most accurate in the game), make more of them to sell to Washington. Boom, there's a business plan for MDA.

    If the US doesn't want to buy from a non-american supplier? Somehow, I think a threat to instead sell this world-leading tech to, for example, China or Iran, would get washington to swallow its protectionist tendencies and open its wallet. Heck, Ottawa could buy out the company at market value and probably get a 2:1 return from Washington just for the promise not to sell spy satellites to the 'axis of evil'.
  99. Fake Name from Canada writes: And by the way, if control of the satellite is allowed to leave canada, we have ironclad evidence that Harper's early zeal over arctic sovereignty (one of the few things I strongly agree with his position on) plays second fiddle to sucking up to washington's interests.
  100. Nick Bibassis from Toronto, Canada writes: While I don't agree with most of Layton's views and I can't stand Olivia, he's on the money on this issue. Dion, can you hold his hand and block the sale?
  101. Mervin Hollingsworth from Saskatoon, Sk., Canada writes: Well the good old NDP. They are going to sue for something that may not happen. All the Liberal boosters are on here saying what a travesty it would be to sell it. They have no idea what they are talking about but if its an opportunity to slag Harper and the Conservative government they are happy to oblige.
    Let's wait and see what the government decides for deriding them and calling them all kinds of names.
    Some people on this board need to get a life.
  102. C R from Canada writes: Thank you NDP. 'Standing Up For Canada' is what Harper isn't doing.
  103. Claudio Ruiz-Pilarte from Toronto, Canada writes: I don't know why people are making such a big deal out of the sale of this company when Harper has already sold Canada politically to the US.
  104. Fake Name from Canada writes: 'Mervin Hollingsworth from Saskatoon, Sk., Canada writes: They have no idea what they are talking about but if its an opportunity to slag Harper and the Conservative government they are happy to oblige. Let's wait and see what the government decides for deriding them and calling them all kinds of names.'

    Perhaps your royal highness would oblige us by demonstrating your oh-so-superior grasp of what we're talking about? Unless you're a national security policy analyst, you have no grounds to be slagging anyone else' understanding of the issue.

    The point is that if we 'wait and see what the government decides,' then it will be too d@mn late to do anything about it if they don't decide to stand up for canada, which given their previous track record of placing goodwill in washington at or near the top of their priority list, I have little hope for.
  105. James Tod from Vancouver, Canada writes: Good, test it out in court.
  106. white wolf from Canada writes: If any canadian sold secret techology to another country we would probably be charged with treasonous activity

    whats the difference here?
  107. G. Veneta from Calgary, Canada writes: The one time I will say good for Jack. This should not be sold full stop. I would call the election over this as it is a symbol of Canada and what is it's future. Are we going to be the resource and idea and invention handmaiden of the US or are we going to stand strong and free????

    What's it going to be? If our business leaders are such patsies then we need to legislate to protect Canada.

    Good going Jack. The only thing you've done over the past 2 years that have any meaning.
  108. Pattaya Pete from Bangkok, Brunei Darussalam writes: As much as I can't stand the video professor he has a point. $400 million of our money was sunk into Radarsat 2. We also do need something to keep an eye on the Russkies and and the Yanks. Can they not sell the company without the sat?
  109. Thomas t from Hong Kong writes: Its interesting how in most countries its the Left that is internationalist and the right that is nationalist. In Canada its the opposite. The only Nationalist party in Canada is the NDP.

    I'm a nationalist and its good to see politicians of any stripe defend Canadian interests.

    Good job NDP without you nobody would make a peep about any of these issues that appeal to Nationalists.
  110. The Globing Male from these here, United States writes: 'Public Apologizer from Winnipeg, Canada writes: If you place your job above ethics than it is you who just doesn't get it. Canada is about more than simplistic profit margins, it is about having a higher ethical code. We are the country that found to ban illegal weapons such as landmines. How could we hypocritically sellout our aerospace science to a company that sells weapons of mass destruction as a business model.' Finally! There it is - the mighty hand of Canadian self-righteousness! As an ex-Canadian, here's something a buddy of mine sent just earlier this evening: Canada: A former British colony which overfishes, deforests, pollutes, treats Native Americans Shabbily with a capital ‘S’, and has a massive superiority complex; a sort of late-comer to the modern day Garden of Eden, with a maple leaf substituting for a fig, and the Tree of Self-Congratulation standing in for the Tree of Knowledge. A Canadian: 1. A person who takes every chance to brag about his socialized medical care, especially when visiting his standby for-pay doctor in the US for any ailment moreserious than corns or a yeast infection. 2. Randy Quaid's character in the National Lampoon's Vacation's movies. (If you haven't seen these, the guy is a layabout, letting everyone else do the heavy lifting while he sponges through life, all with an aire of smugness and moral superiority). 3. American Lite. Have a nice day!
  111. The Globing Male from these here, United States writes: 'Public Apologizer from Winnipeg, Canada writes: If you place your job above ethics than it is you who just doesn't get it. Canada is about more than simplistic profit margins, it is about having a higher ethical code. We are the country that found to ban illegal weapons such as landmines. How could we hypocritically sellout our aerospace science to a company that sells weapons of mass destruction as a business model.' Finally! There it is - the mighty hand of Canadian self-righteousness! As an ex-Canadian, here's something a buddy of mine sent just earlier this evening: Canada: A former British colony which overfishes, deforests, pollutes, treats Native Americans Shabbily with a capital ‘S’, and has a massive superiority complex; a sort of late-comer to the modern day Garden of Eden, with a maple leaf substituting for a fig, and the Tree of Self-Congratulation standing in for the Tree of Knowledge. A Canadian: 1. A person who takes every chance to brag about his socialized medical care, especially when visiting his standby for-pay doctor in the US for any ailment moreserious than corns or a yeast infection. 2. Randy Quaid's character in the National Lampoon's Vacation's movies. (If you haven't seen these, the guy is a layabout, letting everyone else do the heavy lifting while he sponges through life, all with an aire of smugness and moral superiority). 3. American Lite. Have a nice day!
  112. Jimmy K from Toronto, Canada writes: The video professor is right. This is my line in the sign for the Conservatives.

    They let this go through, and they lose my vote. Keep in mind, the Liberals sure won't get it until they replace their clown of a leader, but I'll definitely sit the next election out. Maybe I'll vote for the Rhinos. Or the Marijuana party, just for kicks. Oh and Gerstein, you can stop sending me your crappy fund raising letters, they go straight in the garbage now.

    Thomas t does make a good point. Politics in Canada is kind of backwards, didn't really think about that until he pointed it out, our left wing parties are very nationalist, yet our right wing parties are not. Really odd when compared to almost every other country in the world.
  113. rahim ladha from montreal, Canada writes: Should be the motivation enough to vote for NDP, none of ther other partys have shown much care for Canadian intellectual property and sensitive technology important for national interests

    NDP is trying to guard NAtional interests while Haper is ready to sale the nations interest to Americans...
  114. Prashanta Dhakal from Canada writes: Richard Soley from writes: 'JAck Layton, politican and statesmen, but not a business man.... The results of tinkering in the market by uneducated politicans...'

    Thought I'd point out that Jack holds a PhD degree.
  115. Jimmy K from Toronto, Canada writes: dean spence who the heck is talking about CONFISCATING assets? All we're saying is that a company, who's research and development was FUNDED BY THE CANADIAN TAXPAYER, should not be able to turn around and make money by doing something counter to the interests of the Canadian public and the state. How is that unfair? Bottom line, if they don't want the government having a say in this, then they shouldn't accept money from the government. They took over 400 million of taxpayer money, and they are going to sell the technology developed with that money to a foreign entity and effectively end the industry in Canada, how can anyone possibly see this as a good thing?

    99 times out of 100 I am the raging free market, libertarian, laissez-faire economics type, but even I can see this is a bad deal for taxpayers, bad deal for our security interests, and just bad news all around. If the Conservatives let this through, then maybe all that BS that the left spews about being lackeys to the Americans really isn't that far off base, is it?
  116. Phil H from Canada writes: In response to 'r b from Calgary': It's hard to imagine how someone who would see an article about the possible sale of a space technology company as an opportunity to mock diversity policies isn't a racist.
  117. marty mac from Canada writes: Perhaps someone out there can explain something to me. When the Government in the late 1990s contracted for sat2 why was sovereignty not an issue then? Why did the then liberal government contract to build the satellite with MDA which was at the time wholly American owned ( Orbital)? Also since the life of the MDAsat2 is only for another seven years, why not buy the space division of MDA, make it part of the Canadian Space Agency and build sat3 as we will soon need it because of predictions are correct ,marine traffic will begin plying the northern waterways in about 10 to 15yrs. (long past the life of sat2) From what I have been able to glean, this whole sovereignty issue was begun by Mr Staples of the Rideau Institute. His anti-Americanism is legendary and I am sure that they have authored a paper proving that the Americans were behind the demise of the dinosaur. One other thing I was able to find is that Canada is to receive imagery for the life of sat2 from MDA. What Canada did was prepay for the imagery prior to the building of the satellite and as long as that imagery is provided no monies are owed.
  118. Ladislav K from (currently living in) Jerusalem, Israel, Canada writes: In the past I have only been annoyed with the NDP's and Layton's shenanigans but now he and the party are starting to really anger me. They are meddling too much in government matters and they are doing a bad job of it.

    I think Olivia and Jack should move somewhere and make clothing out of hemp that is their true calling.
  119. Bert Russell Paradox, BC from Canada writes:
    Taliban Jack is usually beating a dead horse or riding a donkey backward .. but he may have fallen on one here. Jacks heart appears to be in the right place but he really needs work on his image.
  120. R. Carriere from Maritimes, Canada writes:

    There is other very concerning information out there:

    Highlights:

    RADARSAT, the world's most advanced 'synthetic aperture radar' (SAR) satellite system. Although RADARSAT is commercial, it is probably Canada's single-most important technological contribution to U.S. WAR efforts

    For more than 10 years now, in exchange for NASA's launch of RADARSAT-1, the U.S. government has controlled 15% of its observation time and gets complete access to all archived RADARSAT after 6 months. Despite this, U.S. military and intelligence agencies have also purchased many millions of dollars worth of additional RADARSAT time

    Many Canadians would be dismayed if they knew their taxes have subsidised advanced satellite technology for use in U.S. wars. The design and production of both RADARSAT-1 and -2 have cost Canadian taxpayers about one billion dollars. About 90% of RADARSAT-1's $620-million pricetag was publicly funded, while about 83% of RADARSAT-2's $525-million cost was covered by Canadian taxes.

    Cons and Libs complicity on this one!

    http://www.policyalternatives.ca/MonitorIssues/2006/06/MonitorIssue1389/

    http://coat.ncf.ca/our_magazine/links/58/blurb-58.htm
    .
  121. R. Carriere from Maritimes, Canada writes:

    This isn't the first time MDA has been owned by US war industry. Back when (then Liberal) David Emerson was on MDA's board, the company was owned by a US 'missile defence' rocket maker called Orbital Sciences.

    ATK, the new owner of 'Canada's' satellite, touts itself as 'an advanced weapon and space system company.' ATK has its fingers in everything from 'missile defence' rocket motors to small arms. And now, it will control RADARSAT-2, which is likely Canada’s single greatest technological contribution to the US war machine.

    But Canadians have little sense of their real role in the US wars. In fact, most Canadians still suffer from the delusion that their government said 'NO' to Ballistic Missile Defence and the Iraq War.

    Canadians don't even know how much MDA paid for RADARSAT-2 because MDA's contract with the Government of Canada is secret.

    In a parliamentary committee in 2005, Liberals and Conservatives voted against an NDP-Bloc motion to allow MPs to view the contract.

    What's more, the Liberal's RADARSAT Bill (C-25) has a secret annex that even MPs were not allowed to read before voting on it.

    http://tinyurl.com/5899s5
    .
  122. Bill C. O'llector from Canada writes: ...and also according to the NDP if they get their way Canada won't have a penney.

    Will this be the result of Pat Martin's bill passing or the NDP's economic platform should they ever get elected to form a government?
  123. Kenneth Yurchuk from Toronto, Canada writes: Morning RC. Good Post, informative as always. You frequently cut through the bull and drill down to the essence of the issue.

    If ever there were a case that justified nationalizing a company this is it. Pay fair compensation to the shareholders etc. My only concern would be that it would turn into another AECL.

    So instead of public nationalization, how about a joint venture where the gov't is a silent partner with 51% ownership. No role in running the company, but control that kicks in only to safeguard the national interest.
  124. Spar Drive from Brampton, Canada writes: Canada does not have a clear policy for the development of space and defense technology. Canada is not investing in space/defense technological projects of the kind that the divisions of MDA have contributed to in the past. This is the way the Canadian taxpayer seems to like it. These divisions of MDA are running out of work in the Canadian market. There are no Canadian entities coming forward with better purchase offers, or with offers of sustainable high tech development work that these divisions of MDA can perform. If the sale is blocked, what is the alternative for these divisions of MDA and their employees? To everyone saying just block the sale and stopping at that, what will you say if the sale is actually blocked, these divisions of MDA close down and their employees disperse anyway? Many people are jumping on the nationalistic bandwagon without looking into the details of what has been happening in the aerospace industry over the past several years.

  125. L.B. MURRAY from Canada L.B. MURRAY from Canada from Canada writes: R. Carriere, once again you provide us with so many interesting links, which I hope all of us on the fora, will look into.

    This one phrase caught my attention :

    ''Despite efforts by the NDP and BQ, the contracts between the Canadian government and MDA--which formalised the privatisation of RADARSAT-1 and -2--have not been made available for viewing by MPs. Liberal and Conservative MPs voted together against a resolution asking if MPs could examine these privatisation contracts.''
    from the coat.ncf.ca link you provided at 5.36 AM _____________

    Incredible that we have the Bloc Quebecois asking questions about this while our LPC and CPC are joined at the hip in keeping this ''secret''... I hope NDP and Bloc keep asking questions...    _______________

    Thanks again R. Carriere.

    -
  126. K2000 JOE BONNEVIE from MONCTON NB, Canada writes: I WILL MAKE A FINANCIAL PLEDGE IF THE NDP HAS TO TAKE THIS TO COURT TO PROTECT OUR NATIONAL SECURITY, INCLUDING JOBS. AS AN EX MILITARY, I KNOW THAT THIS IS AGAINST OUR NATIONAL INTERESTS. IF ANY CANADIANS WISH TO UNDERSTAND MORE, DO THE RESEARCH OR CONTACT ME AT joeb@nb.sympatico.ca I WILL TELL YOU WHAT YOU NEED TO KNOW TO SEE AND UNDERSTAND HOW IMPORTANT THIS IS TO ALL CANADIANS. KEEP THIS SECURE IN CANADA, SAVE THIS COUNTRY FOR OUR CHILDREN. IT SEEMS THAT THERE ARE MANY OF OUR ELECTED FEDERAL MEMBERS DO NOT UNDERSTAND NATIONAL SECURITY, WRITE TO THEM, EDUCATED THEM, YOUR CONCERNS. MAKE THIS AN ELECTION ISSUE IF THEY FAIL TO PROTECT OUR NATIONAL SECURITY. (JOE BONNEVIE MONCTON NB, joeb@nb.sympatico.ca) Ex MILITARY, COMMUNICATIONS.
  127. Spar Drive from Brampton, Canada writes: A story in the Vancouver Sun on this topic:

    http://www.canada.com/vancouversun/columnists/story.html?id=cc63b0e8-9886-4f4c-b73b-ac15cc77df3f&p;=1
  128. Jimmy K from Toronto, Canada writes: Hey look at that, we've finally found an issue where 95% of us all can agree! Conservatives, Liberals, NDPers, seems NO ONE likes this deal.

    Hooray, kumbia, etc etc.
  129. R. Carriere from Maritimes, Canada writes:

    The David Emerson connection is also intriguing. He was a Board of directors member of MDA! If you 'Google' it, there are some interesting connections.

    When Emerson crossed the floor to supposedly better represent his constituents and close the NAFTA soft wood lumber deal, and having studied his past, that had caught my eye-but didn't understand at the time 'WHY!' Perhaps a little more than meets the eye.

    The more one studies this potential transaction (and it will happen-and there will be rumblings for a few days...then forgotten as usual) and the history of all the companies involved for the last 13 years, and how both the LPC and CPC are complicit in the continuation of this deal, it is proving more and more that the CPC and LPC are tied at the hip when big business and the US government and War Machine are involved.

    Perhaps the CBC movie 'The Trojan Horse' is meant to do just a little more than entertain us....
    .
  130. buck naked from surprised, Canada writes: I didn't realize we had any Canadian Companies left to sell. This must be the last one. Go Jack.
  131. garlick toast from Canada writes: the tax payers have 400 million bucks invested in this venture.although i've been underwhelmed by layton's performance to date,i support his efforts in this important fight.let's repatriate canadian sovereignty.
  132. mike sty - from IMO Toms apology I'm sorry.....I'm very sorry..........Im sorry I was caught,....is less provocative than...., Canada writes: Bill C. O'llector from Canada writes: ... according to the NDP if they get their way Canada won't have a penney
    -----------------------

    What's this got to do with blocking satellite sale?????

    Stick to the topic dude.

    Ever hear of spell check.....or use it??????
  133. Tony Mareschealle from mississauga, Canada writes: It is about time that we as a sovereign nation invoke our 'National Security' interests and block the sale. One begins to wonder who the politicians we elect really serve as they continue to allow the willy nilly sale of interests.

    While I am not a huge supporter of the NDP policies I do support 100% my Layton's bid to block this sale.
  134. L.B. MURRAY from Canada L.B. MURRAY from Canada from Canada writes: Perhaps the CBC movie 'The Trojan Horse' is meant to do just a little more than entertain us....writes R. Carriere
    ________________________________

    Morning, R. Carriere... My thought exactly, especially the last 30 minutes when there was reference to ... they started the war...Lebanon...Iraq... and the names such as Don

    I recorded the whole episodes on PVR and shall look again at a couple of subtle analogies...

    Leaving the forum...Back later and thanks again R. for the links.

    -
  135. Bill C. O'llector from Canada writes: mike sty - from IMO Toms apology I'm sorry.....I'm very sorry..........Im sorry I was caught,....is less provocative than...., Canada writes: Bill C. O'llector from Canada writes: ... according to the NDP if they get their way Canada won't have a penney
    -----------------------

    What's this got to do with blocking satellite sale?????

    Stick to the topic dude.

    Ever hear of spell check.....or use it??????

    *******************************************************

    Gee, that's rather rich coming from Mr. Copy n' Paste 'nyaahh, nyaahh, liar liar, Harper's pants on fire' day in and day out regardless of topic.

    I hope you asked yourself the same question while looking in the mirror.

    Of course when you're a pious, blind Liberal apologist I doubt it.

    Oh, by the way Mr. Spell Check - you missed an apostrophe in the third 'I'm' in your name - once again it's 'I'm', not 'Im'.

    Putz!
  136. J. Kenneth Yurchuk from Toronto, Canada writes: It is my understanding that the Federal Government has a mechanism that can be used to block this sale (not that they or the Libs have ever used it). Any one got a quick explanation or a link as to how this could work, and who has to trigger the mechanism? (If Emerson has any involvement he should recuse himself as being in conflict of Interest.)
  137. garlick toast from Canada writes: the cons. accuse the ndp of being ''big spenders'' while their own man beggars the nation and sides with big biz against the likes of danny williams who is only looking to save his long-suffering province.
  138. David K from Guelph, Canada writes: Mr Yurchuk and other interested parties,

    Send your e-mail to;

    Prentice.J@parl.gc.ca

    This is the man with the file who has the power to say yea or nay to the sale. You might want to send copies to your local MP and the leaders of the other parties as well.

    Cheers.
  139. J. Kenneth Yurchuk from Toronto, Canada writes: Thanks David K. My e-mail is on it's way. A lot of Conservative supporters who don't particularly like Harper have touted Mr. Prentice as a possible successor. Let's see how he handles this file.
  140. Fake Name from Canada writes: ' David K from Guelph, Canada writes: Mr Yurchuk and other interested parties, Send your e-mail to;
    Prentice.J@parl.gc.ca
    This is the man with the file who has the power to say yea or nay to the sale.'

    Incredibly naive comment. Prentice will rule precisely as the PMO tells him to.
  141. J. Kenneth Yurchuk from Toronto, Canada writes: Fake Name: Although I fear you are correct about where this decision will ultimately be made, it may be naive, but never wrong, to try to make your voice heard. Even if it does no good, making the effort matters.
  142. R. Carriere from Maritimes, Canada writes:

    K2000 JOE BONNEVIE from MONCTON NB

    Morning Joe: I am just curious as to why you can't share your information right here-out in the open?

    .
  143. G Money from Hamilton, Canada writes: Like they aren't going to use the the to help kill.
  144. David K from Guelph, Canada writes: Fake Name,

    No, not that naive, just following form. After all how much response do you think any complaints will get if sent to the PMO? That is also why I suggested copies to the local member and the opposition. The government would be happy if this item were buried, I want them to know it will be seen and cost them votes.
  145. Better to light a small candle than to sit and curse the darkness from Canada writes: If we didn't have the NDP, we would have to invent it.
    CYMRO
  146. Johnny Canuck from Canada writes: The NDP, unfortunately have it all wrong and they know it. This is just more of their cheap politics. MDA is a private company that owns outright the space technology in question, not the federal government. If the government is interested in keeping this space technology in Canada they should do the right thing and make an offer to buy the company. An offer larger then the current one.
  147. No Name Necessary from Canada writes: for once I agree with Jack Layton on this. We're just giving everything away....so sad.
  148. Better to light a small candle than to sit and curse the darkness from Canada writes: Mervin Hollingsworth from Saskatoon, Sk., Canada writes: Well the good old NDP. They are going to sue for something that may not happen. You must be a Tory. You want to sue after it happens rather than prevent it from happening. Duh!
    garlick toast from Canada writes: the cons. accuse the ndp of being ''big spenders'' while their own man beggars the nation and sides with big biz against the likes of danny williams who is only looking to save his long-suffering province
    Fact of the matter is that NDP supports balanced budgets, and history shows that they are good money managers, from Tommy Douglas. Woodrow Lloyd. Ed Schreyer, Allan Blakeney. Dave Barrett. Tony Penikett. Mike Harcourt. Roy Romanow. Lorne Calvert.
    Even David Clark (BC NDP) eventually balanced the NDP budget in spring 1999 (for the 1999/2000 fiscal year) ended up being balanced as was the 2000/2001 budget under Dosanjh.
    Previous comment courtesy of janfromthe bruce from Canada.
    CYMRO
  149. Maria Loi from Vancouver, Canada writes: Marty, I really don't know enough! What about the government helping out with further R&D; or what? Is USA the only customer, could the Americans do it themselves? If they do, then sell it for it is just a matter of time for they need funding and they can move on to more and better things!
  150. garlick toast from Canada writes: johnny canuck,if you don't think the 400 million dollar contribution from canadian tax payers gives us an interest in this deal,think again.
  151. Paul C from Toronto, Canada writes: Great work again Jack. Thank goodness for the NDP - especially in light of the useless Liberals. Enough of these publicly funded companies being sold to the advantage of private interests. Read Naomi Klein's new book.
  152. Steve Smith from Canada writes: Paul C, wow, if Naomi Klein writes it in a book, it must be true. Do you have any independent thought?
  153. Doug Edwards from rural, Canada writes: This 'tempest in a teapot' is a waste of time and money. If the satellite is not sold you can bet that someone will make an offer for MDA. This is a publicly traded company and the shares are trading at $46 -$47. Looking at the long term, this may be a bargain.
  154. Doug Edwards from rural, Canada writes: Why doesn't Jack take on a real issue. Like Bombardier opening a 'World Class Facility' in Mexico.... With my tax dollars. I guess jack is very sensitive to anything that has Quebec involved.
  155. J. Kenneth Yurchuk from Toronto, Canada writes: Doug Edwards, I guess you won't be happy until Bombardier is taken over by Boeing.
  156. Doug Edwards from rural, Canada writes: Works for me
  157. D. Clearwater from Lethbridge, AB, Canada writes: G Montcler from Canada writes: 'Why did the US government block the sale of Eastern ports to Arab interests? Why is Norway keeping a majority interest in Statoil? Why is Putin re-purchasing the oil and gaz companies? Why are the French keeping a majority stake in Alstom?
    etc. etc. Because they have more vision than our Canadian (un)-leaders!'

    Oh, our leaders have vision... it is to hand over every natural resource and tax dollar to multi-national corporations. You know, 'the market must decide.' I can just hear them all screaming: Oooohh, won't anybody think about the corporations?????
  158. Steve Ens from Richmond, Canada writes: The industry minister can legally block the sale if he is not satisfied that there is a benefit to Canada. This does not even have to be on the grounds of nationalism or sovereignty. Business and employment are good enough factors, and the deal fails here.

    Quite simply, if MDA is sold our space industry will shrink and die. Want proof? How about you start by examining the evidence that the sale will preserve jobs and grow the industry. Now where did we put that evidence?

    Oh, ATK says it will. MDA says it will. But they would say that. MDA will get 1.35 billion dollars to say that. ATK will get a chance to win billions in classified US defense work. This talk is not at all cheap, but it is still easy.

    If you do not lik ethis, talk, OK write, to Prentice, your own MP, and even Mr Harper to tell them so. Do it now! Before it is too late.
  159. L.B. MURRAY from Canada L.B. MURRAY from Canada from Canada writes: Perhaps the CBC movie 'The Trojan Horse' is meant to do just a little more than entertain us....writes R. Carriere
    _________________________

    After taking a careful second look at some sections of the CBC movie ''The Trojan Horse'', I wouldn't be surprised if this is perhaps the last of the CBC movies...

    Some people in very High Places, and I do mean Very High Places, must be very upset ... The actress playing the part of Press Secretary was a perfect copy of FoxAnnCoulter!! LOL... People with any amount of intelligence immediately thought of Mr Snow, Tony Snow who came straight from Fox to Press Secretary... LOL

    So many subtle reminders of sometimes reality is fiction and fiction becomes reality or worse yet, fiction as a carbon copy of reality... getting closer to Orwellian whatever...

    That's my ''rant'' for today.... and I'll be watching what happens at the CBC in the next couple of months...

    -
  160. Zando Lee from Vancouver, Canada writes: ....it's like we said in yesterday's post which didn't get past the censors...we stated that some one has to protect the tax-payers' $400,000,000 investment which must have increased in value, this is a lot of money...where is Stevie on this?...after all he made his name by billing himself as the tax protector, didn't he?....as for Stephie, he is too busy watching out for all those well honed Liberal knives....we wonder what was so objectionable to have this pulled yesterday....oh well....whatever...
  161. Marc S from Canada writes: Harper and cronies would sell their mothers' ,for a profit of course, and would justify it by saying 'market forces are at play'. It is about time people started paying attention to this gov't. And before all you Cons go the 'inner circle' for talking points, it is the Cons who are in power and should be held accountable on this file. Not the Libs or the NDP or even the Greens ( I know I know I'm starting to make you actually think for YOURSELVES for achange but hey..........give it shot !You might actually like it !!)lol
  162. Andrea Timmons from Kingston, Canada writes: The US has the the technology to build similar technology on its own! BUT the US Government doesn't have the funds availabe to help out the technology industry the way the Canadian government has supported ours. The Company which makes the product, is obviously aware that it's cheaper for the US to buy the Canadian product than to build it's own & is capitalizing on the fact! That's the way a free market economy works! It does not work for anyone or anything except itself. Jack Layton's reasoning is sound but if he's trying to get the Government of Canada to block this company's sale to the US, he's just 'whistling in the wind' because the Conservative Government just won't do it. The Conservative Government will state that the sale of the technology to the US will provide huge profits, thereby increasing the Government's tax coffers & not only paying off any investment the Government made on the taxpayers' behalf, but providing more money for the Government to invest with other technology investors! It will also babble away re how the sale of Canadian technology to the US will help to expand the Space Program & be good for Canada as well as the US. The sad fact is that the tecnology itself is neutral, but if the Canadian government, can't keep it that way, it will definitely give the US government an opportunity to make war easily on any country It chooses, not unlike the way it used Einstein's tehnology to wreak a horrible nuclear tradgey on Japan. I hope Jack is able to bring all Canadians on line, re the potential disaster of this sale, including improtant members of the global scientific community, as well as global peace makers. But, I very much doubt that he will have any influence over the Harper government unless he's able to bring the other opposition parties on side. Up to now this hasn't been happening & I doubt it will.
  163. Paul C from Toronto, Canada writes: Ya Steve don't bother reading a well researched and well supported account - just go with your gut. Those pesky books are a real pain in the butt.
  164. Marc S from Canada writes: Hey Paul........how else can they claim that 'man rode on the backs of dinosaur's.................lol............those damn books keep getting in the way.........................lol
  165. J. Kenneth Yurchuk from Toronto, Canada writes: Andrea Timmons: Unfortunately you are probably correct. At least until the Liberals finally breaks with this unholy CLAP coalition with the Conservatives (Conservative Liberal Alliance Party). Until then, Canada has a bad case of the CLAP, and it appears to be Penicillin resistant.
  166. garlick toast from Canada writes: MR. oz from Canada writes: I think that Talban Jack probably would not mind selling [giving] it to one of the middle eastern countries, or better yet, to a communist country like China!

    ------------------------------------------------------------

    really? what makes you think that?
  167. R. Carriere from Maritimes, Canada writes:

    L.B. MURRAY from Canada:

    Afternoon LB; Hope all is well

    Hmm. Several will yell 'Conspiracy theory' but perhaps that is because it is sometimes difficult to believe reality, and sometimes very difficult to change the perception one has always had and always believed in: That being that the 'government' always acts in the people's best interests.

    I will put forward one example: If people would dig (and it is difficult and pain staking) and try and determine who owns and controls the major TV networks, Radio, major newspapers chains, magazines, decides what books will be published and determine distribution, Hollywood, and the music industry........and if I said less than 15 individuals.......!!

    Of course they throw the 'dog a bone' once in a while to satisfy the fringe of both sides...

    One example: Look at the monster success of the television series '24.'

    Jack Bauer was the hero. And what did he do? (sensitize the population?) He took things in his own hands and tortured Arabs or Middle East Muslim people to extract confessions. A hero! And NOW, how many people almost accept this type of behaviour as 'normal!'
    .
  168. No Party party from Van City, Canada writes: I want my piece of the satellite back then.
  169. Fake Name from Canada writes: ' L.B. MURRAY from Canada writes: ..... After taking a careful second look at some sections of the CBC movie ''The Trojan Horse'', I wouldn't be surprised if this is perhaps the last of the CBC movies...'

    I wondered that about the cancellation of the air farce - I'm sure Harper doesn't appreciate being the target of sarcasm. I'm actually surprised they didn't ice 22 Minutes and Rick Mercer Report at the same time.
  170. L.B. MURRAY from Canada L.B. MURRAY from Canada from Canada writes: Afternoon, R.

    Just as I was going out, I decided to take a last look at the fora and almost missed your comment...

    You're so right about the mainstream media and so very few owners... I watched a little of the tv series ''24'' and it was so obvious that this was some fine-tuned brainwashing of the masses!

    Back to ''The Trojan Horse''... quite a lot of food for thought, especially with reference to those ''black box voting machines'' ...
    Makes you wonder if those contraptions will be in perfect working order next November...

    -
  171. C Dione from Canada writes: Nice an irrelevant party who represents less than 10% of Canadians making decisions ofr all of us... Go away NDP and continue to be the party that belongs on the fringes of society.
  172. C Dione from Canada writes: L. B murray writes.... '24' is 'was so obvious that this was some fine-tuned brainwashing of the masses!'

    YOu then follow up with 'Back to ''The Trojan Horse''... quite a lot of food for thought, especially with reference to those ''black box voting machines'' ...
    Makes you wonder if those contraptions will be in perfect working order next November...

    Looks like your anti-americanism has blinded you to the fact that the CBC is brainwashing you. Actually it makes perfect sense, however did the chicken come before or after the egg?

    What a load.....you realize that the CBC is as biased as FOX NEws? THe only difference is that they are on opposite sides of the political spectrum!!!
  173. A Rose from Toronto, Canada writes: 'Taliban Jack'... 'Osama Bin Layton'... are you serious? Who needs satirists? You people parody yourselves quite well on your own.
  174. R. Carriere from Maritimes, Canada writes:

    MR. oz from Canada writes: I think that Talban Jack probably would not mind selling [giving] it to one of the middle eastern countries, or better yet, to a communist country like China!

    Afternoon Mr.oz: I am no fan of Layton, and maybe I missed something, but where does Layton say or state that he would do what you are describing?
    .
  175. A Rose from Toronto, Canada writes: C Dione: In 2006 the NDP received 17.5% of the popular vote... and that doesn't include the large number of NDP supporters who vote Liberal just to ensure the Conservatives don't get in. I think that if we were to switch to a preferential voting system you'd see a significant increase in the number of people voting NDP.
  176. Fake Name from Canada writes: ' C Dione from Canada writes: What a load.....you realize that the CBC is as biased as FOX NEws? THe only difference is that they are on opposite sides of the political spectrum!!!'

    Wild exaggeration, much?
  177. C Dione from Canada writes: Fake Name.....you are delerious if you believe that the CBC is not as biased as fox news.
  178. C Dione from Canada writes: A Rose please give it a rest. So the NDp on its very best day represents 17.5 of the population wow!! YOu can't prove that any NDP supporter voted for the liberals.

    The very fact that they vote for another party in order to be relevant says a lot doesn't it!!!!
  179. A Rose from Toronto, Canada writes: C Dione: I was merely pointing out the fact that the NDP represent more than the 'less than 10% of the population' that you suggested and that the party is not a fringe party as you also suggested. Fringe parties tend not to win seats (like the green party and the marijuana party). The NDP, however, won 30 seats in the last election. Re voting for another party... they don't do it 'to be relevant', they do it out of desperation... it's called 'strategic voting' and a lot of people do it. Sad, but true.
  180. C Dione from Canada writes: A Rose thats great that every two out of twn people would vote for the NDP. IT is still a little rich for them to be acting on behalf of all canadians. Sad that those who want to vote for the NDP have to vote for the Liberals to be relevant, if not they would vote for the NDP correct!!
  181. looking on from Canada writes: How c an the NDP block something that has not been decided yet.
    Typical!!
  182. r b from Calgary, Canada writes: Absolutely hilarious - I see I was called a LIAR by Mikey Sty: apparently the satellite was launched by the Russians, not the Americans? Liar is a bit harsh, mistaken would have been accurate. The satellite is undoubtedly comprised of components of almost exclusively American origin anyways. But you lefty loonies have had a harsh few months. I forgive you.

    So then, the better news for Canada? According to Mikey, we rely on the Russians, not the Americans, to launch this satellite that we are told is so critical to Canadian Arctic sovereignty.

    Yes those same Russians who have laid claim to the entire Arctic seafloor? Oh yes, that's much better.Well that certainly ruins my argument about Canadians being unable to launch our own "crucial" technology satellites without foreign help, doesn't it?

    Yes, we need to keep this crucial technology from failing into the hands of the dastardly Americans. We do however need to rely on our "best good friends", the Russians, to get it into orbit.

    Mikey, Mikey, how do you manage to walk and breathe?

    Outrageously funny.
  183. Spar Drive from Brampton, Canada writes: Canada does not have a clear policy for the development of space and defense technology. Canada is not investing in space/defense technological development projects of the kind that these divisions of MDA have contributed to in the past. It does not seem like the Canadian taxpayer wants to invest heavily in the space/defense industry. There are no Canadian entities coming forward with better purchase offers, or with offers of sustainable high tech development work that these divisions of MDA can perform. If the sale is blocked, what is the alternative for these divisions of MDA and their employees? To everyone saying just block the sale, without properly examining what has led to this situation, what will you say if the sale is blocked, these divisions of MDA close down and their employees disperse? Many critics are jumping on the bandwagon of nationalism without an understanding of what has been happening in the aerospace industry over the past several years. The sale of these MDA divisions results from years of developments in the aerospace industry. To those saying that the government or MDA should just try to get around the problems of accessing the U.S. aerospace market by negotiation, government involvement or various other strategies, what do you think MDA has been trying to do for the past 10 years? They have tried accessing the U.S. aerospace market via many different avenues, buying U.S. companies for example, but they have discovered the only way to grow in the U.S. market is to be owned by a U.S. company. ATK is willing to invest in these divisions of MDA. No Canadian entity is stepping forward to do so.

    Please read the articles below on the topic of the sale:
    theglobeandmail.com
    http://www.canada.com/vancouversun/columnists/story.html?id=cc63b0e8-9886-4f4c-b73b-ac15cc77df3f&p;=1
  184. Cognitively Cogitative from The Far, Far East, Canada writes: Glad to see the NDP taking on an issue of real importance. I hope the burning issues of the left like abolishing the penny and reducing bank machine rates are shelved.
  185. mike sty - from IMO Toms apology I'm sorry.....I'm very sorry..........Im sorry I was caught,....is less provocative than...., Canada writes:
    r b from Calgary, Canada writes: I see I was called a LIAR by Mikey Sty: apparently the satellite was launched by the Russians, not the Americans? But you lefty loon........ According to Mikey, we rely on the Russians, not the Americans, to launch this satellite
    --------------------------------------

    From MDA webpage,

    "RADARSAT-2 was launched in December 2007 on a Soyuz vehicle from Russia's Baikonur Cosmodrome in Kazakhstan."

    www.radarsat2.info/about/mission.asp
  186. Fake Name from Canada writes: Spar Drive ... the company itself is of secondary importance to retaining control of the satellite, which sounds like it would only be a national security letter away from being stripped away from us under the deal as proposed.

    Although if this technology is so superior, there really should be markets wanting to buy more of them, if we look around. As I said above, if Washington doesn't want to issue contracts to non-american suppliers, MDA could always offer it to China - that would get america's attention, and probably allow them to write their own price tag lest it fall into a hostile government's hands.

    Of course, any defense tech america buys at the moment is being financed with debt to Beijing anyway, so my proposal could simply be considered cutting out the middle-man.
  187. Jesse Winger from Calgary, Canada writes: I give it to Jack Layton on this one for sure: he's right as rain.

    That PM Stephen Harper and the Cons would even think of allowing our best technology to be sold (at a firesale price no less!) to an American arme merchatn when WE TAXPAYERS DROPPED IN EXCESS OF HALF A BILLION DOLLARS TO BUILD THE THING is stupidity beyond belief.

    This could be a bigger debacle than when conservative PM Diefenbaker stupidly ditched the AVRO Arrow.
  188. Spar Drive from Brampton, Canada writes: Jack Layton is coming late to the discussion without having done his homework, looking for whatever political issues he can to raise his profile.

    The Canadian government will still have access to the Radarsat2 imagery that it paid for. MDA was a wholly owned subsidiary of Orbital Sciences when Radarsat2 was beginning, another U.S. aerospace/defense firm, and yet the sky didn't fall.

    Comparisons to the AVRO Arrow are totally inaccurate. If the MDA divisions are shut down, Radarsat2 is shot out of orbit with an anti-satellite missile, all the documentation of how it was built destroyed, the ground station and ground test equipment dumped into Lake Ontario, and all software used to develop and control it deleted, then the comparison to the AVRO Arrow will apply.
  189. Kenneth Yurchuk from Toronto, Canada writes: You seem pretty knowledgable about MDA, Spar Drive. Hold some shares do you?

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