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The Week with Mark Sutcliffe
February 19, 2012
This Sunday, Mark welcomes two veteran political journalists to discuss the week in national politics. Viewers are also welcome to contribute their thoughts about the big stories of the week. On the program: John Ibbitson, Ottawa Bureau Chief for The Globe and Mail Louise Elliott, CBC Radio’s Parliamentary Reporter Tune in, call in, and tweet in, this Sunday, to talk about: CYBERCRIME BILL BACKLASH: Public Safety Minister Vic Toews became a lightning rod in the debate over online privacy this week. The Protecting Children from Internet Predators Act would broaden powers to police the internet, giving authorities access to personal details without a warrant. The government now appears ready to amend its bill. But not before the discussion touched off a fierce debate and even spawned a controversial Twitter account. Is Bill C-30 an invasion of privacy? How far should authorities be allowed to go when policing the internet? CANADIAN, ON CONDITION? Justin Trudeau said on a radio show that if Canada adopts Stephen Harper's values, he might want to make Quebec a separate country. Trudeau says he is not a separatist. He says the real issue is that Canadians don't agree with the Conservative government's principles. What do the comments say about the Liberal MP? And is he right about Canada's values? CUTS OR CRISIS: As governments of all levels begin to cut back on spending, Ontario received some tough medicine this week. A former bank economist delivered dire warnings and a long list of recommendations to cut services. Meanwhile, Alberta’s finance minister admits his government also needs to be more efficient delivering education, health care and social programs. How far should governments go to balance their budgets? MANDATORY MINIMUMS: An Ontario superior court judge refused to impose a mandatory minimum sentence, saying it would be cruel and unusual punishment. It's an example of a growing backlash, as the government prepares to introduce more mandatory minimum sentences in its omnibus crime bill. Are mandatory minimums effective? Or should judges decide the level of punishment, without government involvement? ANYTHING ELSE: What are the national political stories that matter most to you this week?