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The Week with Mark Sutcliffe
February 2, 2014
This Sunday, Mark welcomes Elizabeth Thompson, Senior Political Writer for iPolitics.ca, and Andrew Cohen, author, columnist and professor at Carleton University’s School of Journalism and Communication. Viewers are also invited to share their thoughts about the week’s political stories: "NO MORE LIBERAL SENATORS" In a bold surprise move, Liberal Leader Justin Trudeau removed all Liberal senators from his party's caucus. He said the now independent senators will also no longer be fundraisers or organizers for the party. Some observers say this as a dramatic way to reform the red chamber without opening up constitutional debates. But critics call it a smokescreen. The senators say they will continue to serve as Liberals. Was this a pre-emptive move, as the auditor general gets ready to release a potentially damaging report about senators' expenses? Or is it a brave step toward Senate reform? And is Trudeau's promise to establish a non-partisan means of appointing future senators appropriate and achievable? VETS BATTLE GOVERNMENT A group of veterans is demanding that the veterans affairs minister resign. The veterans say he has been disrespectful. Julian Fantino says he is not leaving. The veterans are angry with the government over the closure of several regional offices but the government maintains that veterans will still be well served. Is the government mistreating veterans? Should the offices stay open? FEBRUARY 11th BUDGET The Opposition says the Conservatives are hoping more eyes will be on the Olympics instead of the country’s finances when the government tables its budget February 11th. What does the timing of the upcoming budget say about the government's plans? And is Canada still on track to balance the books in 2015?