BC Youth 4 Kennedy

Trudeau endorses Kennedy!

2006-11-25T13:23:00.000-08:00

Justin Trudeau, recent chair of the Youth aspect of the Liberal Renewal Commission, has endorsed Gerard Kennedy!

As one blogger remarked: Can you spell "momentum" ???!!!

THE WORLD NEEDS MORE KENNEDY

2006-11-20T11:54:00.001-08:00

ONLY ONE WEEK REMAINING

Welcome to the final week of the most competitive and open Liberal Leadership race in history.

At the last leadership convention in 2003, U2 rocker Bono walked off the stage and said "the world needs more Canada."

We really believe that at this convention, delegates will come to the conclusion that "the world needs more Kennedy."

If you have any questions about the campaign, Gerard Kennedy, or how to be in touch or volunteer your time in Montreal, contact us at bc.kennedy.youth@gmail.com!

See you in La belle province,

-BCY4K

Fascinating Kennedy DEM results: Gerard's strength in winnable and battleground ridings

2006-11-20T04:29:00.001-08:00

Gregory Morrow at www.democraticSPACE.com has done some remarkable analysis of the DEM meeting results, showing how Gerard Kennedy fared especially well on average in the most winnable Liberal ridings, and also the 60 ridings that can be classified as "battleground ridings."

For Mr. Morrow's detailed and skilled analysis can be found on his site, but the gyst of it is this:

Gerard Kennedy is disproportionately electable in areas where we need to hold Liberal support, and where we have the potential to expand it. Essentially, Gerard is especially poised as a candidate to help win us the specific seats needed to win a majority government.

It should also be noted that this analysis was done even before the completion of the results in British Columbia, where Gerard is running a close second. This would certainly generate the potential to boost his proportions in these riding categories even further.

These tables from Morrow illustrate these points very well, showing the difference between the candidates' overall performance and their proportionate showings in the 'winnable' and 'battleground' riding categories:

2006-10-17T21:58:00.000-07:00

Gerard Kennedy's bringing "sexy" back to the infrastructure debate

Here's a nifty "excerpts" video from YouTube showcasing Gerard's remarkable performance during the infrastructure section of last Sunday's all-candidates' debate.

Kennedy shows leadership and understanding on Afghanistan

2006-10-10T17:10:00.000-07:00

Today at the Canadian Club debate in Toronto, Gerard had some excellent opportunities to showcase his strong understanding of our mission in Afghanistan, its inherent challenges, and his proposals to improve the mandate and enhance its results.

And the country took note!

Here are some of Gerard's comments from the Globe and Mail's national update:

Mr. Kennedy described the turmoil in Afghanistan as coming from three interlinked crises: the economic reliance on opium, a low level of foreign aid, and the battle with the Taliban.
“Western nations had pledged for alternative economic development and not delivered. We cannot win hearts and minds if we're not filling their stomachs,” said Mr. Kennedy.
“We need the commitment of the whole international community. If not, we should leave in an orderly fashion after February 2007 with our heads held high as a country that's provided the only other possibility -- short term security need -- on a par with any other in the world.”
All three leadership contenders called for the NATO mandate to be revised, with Mr. Kennedy saying it should align with Canadian principles. “If young men and women are to be at risk, it will be for things that we believe in,” he said.

Here are some more resources from previous posts to keep you up to date on Kennedy's position and on how you can get involved and have your say on this critical issue.

GERARD ON AFGHANISTAN - VIDEO MESSAGE

Gerard's position on this issue is bold, unique among the leadership candidates, and very comprehensive. It seems to have been incredibly well-received in the national media and even more so by grassroots Liberals and Canadians across the country.

Are you one of the many Liberals who seem to agree with Kennedy's distinct perspective and proposals?

If so, send a letter to the Prime Minister through Gerard's website. Follow the links below to get involved!

Interview with Gerard Kennedy

2006-10-07T01:18:00.000-07:00


CBC Radio 1 host Anna Maria Tremonti conducted an excellent and in-depth interview with Gerard on Thursday. The interview was originally broadcast on October 5th, 2006

MAJORITY of BC Youth are 4 Kennedy!

2006-10-02T18:59:00.000-07:00

Well folks, the results are in, and the BC Kennedy Youth Team couldn't be more pleased after exceeding expectations and having a "super" weekend. Our one candidate has earned a majority of the delegates from BC's federal Liberal youth clubs.

Here is an unofficial tally of delegates coming out of the campus clubs:

GERARD KENNEDY: 13 / 24 !

Where did this support come from?

1 delegate representing SFU Harbour Centre

3 delegates representing UBC

3 delegates representing SFU Surrey

3 delegates representing UBC Okanagan

and

3 delegates representing SFU Burnaby

We would like to wholeheartedly thank every single voter who came out to support Gerard in their riding and especially at their Liberal campus club. The old saying about how "every vote counts" came true in a very significant way!

Obviously, our team out here is tired but ecstatic. Despite starting late in the game, we've built a big, diverse, active and inclusive youth team, and we would love the chance to welcome you on board. Contact us anytime at bc.kennedy.youth to get involved or to meet with a member of our growing youth team.

Thank you for your support!

SFU Young Liberals give Kennedy a 72% endorsement

2006-09-30T02:28:00.000-07:00

Wow. The first results are in for BC Young Liberal campus clubs, and at SFU's Main Burnaby campus more than 72% of the members voting for leadership candidates cast their ballot for Gerard Kennedy!

Keep up the great work! For details on voting times, locations, and ID requirements for SFU Surrey, UVic, SFU Harbour Centre, UBC, and UBCO see the posting below or call 604.809.9951.

"HAVE A 'SUPER' WEEKEND!" - bcyouth4kennedy

2006-09-29T01:04:00.000-07:00

Well, it's now upon us. Welcome to "Super Weekend," the three days (Friday, Saturday, and Sunday) you have to vote, and get your families and friends out to vote as well.

The excitement is building, the stakes are high, and the impact you can have is enormous.

All of the information you need about when and where to vote is below. Remember, if you are a campus club youth member you can vote both in your riding and at the Delection Election meeting for your campus club.

It is our understanding that a driver's license is sufficient identification to vote, but you might want to confirm this with your local returning officer or riding association. If you are voting at a campus club, proof of attendance such as a student ID card is also required.

For more on Gerard's innovative policy agenda and his activities in the lead up to this weekend, visit
www.gerardkennedy.ca
and check out the video below!

Good luck, and have a "super" weekend!

DELEGATE ELECTION MEETING INFORMATION

GK's Overwhelming British Columbian Endorsement

2006-09-23T12:44:00.000-07:00

Kennedy Receives Overwhelming Endorsement from Federal Liberals in B.C.

Vancouver, BC - Following last week's leadership debate at UBC's Chan Centre for the Performing Arts, party members from across British Columbia have joined together to endorse Gerard Kennedy, as next leader of the Liberal Party of Canada. Kennedy has now received the backing of Richmond Member of Parliament Raymond Chan, former Vancouver Mayor and Senator Larry Campbell, nine of BC's riding presidents and a majority of the LPCBC executive.
The quotes below represent just a few of the things that Liberals in British Columbia are saying about the Kennedy campaign:

"Gerard's commitment to the success of new Canadians and his support of British Columbia's role as Canada's gateway to the Asia Pacific clearly shows he is committed to Western Canada. His belief in a balanced approach between enterprise and social development demonstrates that he is the best candidate to lead the Liberal Party."

-Raymond Chan, MP, Richmond, Gerard Kennedy Co-Chair BC

"The Liberal Party needs Gerard Kennedy's leadership skills so that we can continue to develop a vibrant agenda for our cities including ongoing support for our successful safe injection site here in Vancouver. Gerard has an impeccable record of serving the less fortunate throughout his career - the Liberal Party needs that same sort of practical compassion today if we are going to defeat this mean spirited Harper government."

-Larry Campbell, Senator

"As a former Liberal MPP in Ontario I have worked closely with Gerard. I knew back then he was destined to lead our national party one day. I have complete faith that Gerard will renew the Liberal Party and defeat Stephen Harper in the coming election."

Sterling Campbell, Former Ontario Liberal MPP, Riding President, Vancouver Island North

"Gerard Kennedy is a new and exciting voice for the Liberal Party of Canada. He brings a new perspective to solving the problems facing the Party and Canada today."

Craig Munroe, Riding President, Vancouver Quadra

"He is the only candidate that can communicate with rural Canadians to win seats outside of urban centers. Gerard Kennedy understands the issues facing Liberals in rural ridings across the country."

Parveen Sandur, Riding President, Okanagan - Coquihalla

"When you hear Gerard speak you understand that he is not giving lip service to the problems that face Canada. He truly cares about the people and the country. His work at the Food Bank and as Minister of Education is truly inspiring."

Tar Bing, Riding President, Nanaimo Alberni

"Gerard Kennedy has put in place an ambitious and well thought out plan to help immigrants reach their potential. Gerard Kennedy is a leader and understands the needs of my community. He is the only candidate who he beat Stephen Harper, Jack Layton and Gilles Duceppe."

Gurdev Dhillon, Riding President, Burnaby New Westminster

"Gerard can win the next election because he is both the best candidate to renew the party and present a fresh, new voice of Liberalism to the Canadian public. Those qualities combined with his commitment to pressing issues like the environment make him my choice for leader"

Stephen Kukucha, Campaign Director, British Columbia (1997), Executive Director - BC Minister's Regional Office, Senior Policy Advisor, Minister of Environment

"Gerard understands the difficulty of growing up in rural Canada. Gerard's experiences are pan Canadian and will help him to renew the Liberal Party from coast to coast to coast. Gerard will help us elect more rural representation for the Liberal Party in the next election."

Gurbax Saini, Past Candidate, Cariboo- Prince George

"Gerard has the energy and experience to take down Stephen Harper in the next election. Gerard brings new passion and purpose to the Liberal Party."

Dale Flood, Former LPCBC Executive Director

"As a life long Liberal who has happily knocked thousands of doors in inclement weather during the past 22 years, I am proud to offer my heartfelt support to Gerard Kennedy as he campaigns for leader.

Liberals need a leader who understands that our party and our country cannot succeed without strong, vibrant Liberal representation from the West. No other candidate comes close to knowing British Columbia better than Gerard. As a native son of the Pas Manitoba, Gerard Kennedy represents our best hope for successful party renewal and victory in the next election."
Bruce Young, Former Senior Advisor (British Columbia), Office of the Prime Minister

"Gerard understands that Canadians have their own voice. He has made clear his position on our foreign diplomatic policies. He also recognizes that Canadians need to promote entrepreneurship to compete and lead in today's global economy."

Thomas Marshall, Former Outreach Director, LPCBC

"Gerard Kennedy can help us win a Liberal seat on Vancouver Island North. He has a strong record of helping society's most vulnerable and brings no baggage with his candidacy. Gerard represents tried and tested Liberal values."

Jim Mitchell, Past Candidate, Vancouver Island North

"Gerard Kennedy gives me hope that we can win more rural ridings in British Columbia. Stephen Harper and Jack Layton should be very scared of Gerard's competency to mobilize the rural grassroots electorate. Gerard Kennedy will win us more rural Liberal seats and help us reconnect with the average Canadian."

Chanchal Bal, Gerard Kennedy Co-Chair BC

"I joined the Liberal Party as a youth delegate at our last leadership convention. I joined the Liberal Party because I was inspired by leaders such as Laurier, Pearson and Trudeau, Liberal leaders that made Canada the nation it has become today. Liberal leaders that made Canada give to the world the concept of peacekeeping, the notion of a just society, multiculturalism and a belief in a responsibility to protect. I believe once again that it will be a Liberal leader who will empower our country with the tools that will be necessary for us to continue on a certain path towards greater opportunity, economic prosperity and environmental sustainability in the 21st century. I believe we have found such a leader worthy to lead the Party of Laurier, Pearson and Trudeau and his name is Gerard Kennedy.

Gerard has proven himself in every endeavor thus far, whether managing the Toronto food bank or as a great Education Minister in Ontario as a competent, compassionate visionary. Gerard has the compassion and vision that says ours must be the party that builds a society where every Canadian counts, every Canadian matters, every day, all the time."

Coco Lefoka, YLCBC President

"Gerard Kennedy's policy to bring equality to women in the workplace is a prime example of his ability to recognize a problem and provide a just solution. Gerard Kennedy is a breath of fresh air that will reinvigorate the Liberal Party and give Canadians the Canada they deserve."

Jen Hatton, Gerard Kennedy Co-Chair BC

"As the Liberal party goes through a period of renewal we need someone like Gerard Kennedy. He has shown a dedication to public service throughout his career and knows what it will take for our party to regain trust and support of the electorate in Western Canada."

David Brodie, Former Senior Special Assistant (Northern and Western Canada), Office of the Prime Minister

"Gerard has the unique ability to rebuild the Liberal Party and defeat Stephen Harper. Gerard will usher the Liberal party and Canada into a new era of prosperity."

Kuldip Singh Jhand, LPCBC Nominations Chair

"Gerard Kennedy is the uniting force we need in the Liberal Party right now. Gerard's history as a decisive, daring and diligent manager has led to repeated success beyond all expectations. Whether feeding the poor or helping to bring down Ontario's Conservative government, Gerard Kennedy has devoted his life to progressive pursuits that have made Canada a better place.

In Gerard Kennedy, I see a man who speaks eloquently about his vision, yet is authoritative on the practical minutiae of effective governance. I am proud to campaign for Gerard Kennedy, both within my party and on the doorsteps of Canadians."

Cameron St. John, LPCBC Policy Chair

"Gerard's campaign is a compelling movement and exciting to be part of. His youth team is dedicated, diverse and determined to make a difference in this race by electing a truly forward-thinking and inclusive leader. Gerard has the right balance of experience and fresh ideas to make the Liberal party successful in this new century."

Braeden Caley, VP Internal of the Young Liberals of Canada (BC)

It's rare to find a candidate with the right mix of experience, social conscience and new ideas to lead a political party. Gerard Kennedy has all those qualities and is running for all the right reasons. I am very pleased to support him for leader of the Liberal Party of Canada.

Dean Crawford, Former Senior Advisor, Office of the Minister of Justice

In addition to those listed above Kennedy's campaign has also received the support of the following prominent British Columbia Federal Liberals:

• Jatinder Sidhu, Riding President - Abbotsford, Past candidate - Dewdney Alouette
• Prem Vinning - Past Candidate, Surrey North
• Steve Vander Wal, Former Senior Advisor to the Federal Environment Minister and
Former Senior Advisor to the B.C. Minister of Health
• Justyna Jonca, Former Senior Advisor to the Leader of the Government in the Senate
• Tex Enemark - former federal Liberal candidate, Vancouver Centre
• Ian McKay - former Senior Policy Advisor, Minister of Industry
• Doug Leung, Federal Liberal Campaign Manager, Vancouver Quadra (2000, 2004 & 2006)
• James Hatton, Secretary, LPCBC
• Neil Sweeney, former Legislative Assistant to the Federal Minister of Finance and former Deputy
Chief of Staff to the Premier of BC
• Mike Brooks, Former director of Liberal Caucus Research, Victoria
• Bud Hoffard, Riding President, Richmond
• Ivan Curman, Riding President, Vancouver-Kingsway
• Marcel Juneau, Riding President, Pitt Meadows- Maple Ridge- Mission
• Shannon Salter, LPCBC Communications Chair
• Blanche Juneau, Past Candidate, Pitt Meadows- Maple Ridge- Mission
• Shelby Caravetta, VP Services of the Young Liberals of Canada (BC)
• Rajinder Sandhu, VP Membership of the Young Liberals of Canada (BC), and President of the SFU Burnaby Young Liberals
• Aadil Jesani, President, SFU Harbour Centre Young Liberals
• Kam Kaila, President, SFU Surrey Young Liberals
• Scott Ross, President of the UBC-Okanagan Young Liberals
• Taylor Biggs, President of the UBC Young Liberals
• Sana Shahram, Past President, UBC Young Liberals
• Shasta Benhaim, VP Internal, UBC Young Liberals
• Laura Holvor, VP Communications, UBC Young Liberals
• Adam Trombley, VP Finance of the Young Liberals of Canada (BC) and Past President, University of Victoria
Young Liberals
• Matt Stickney, VP Finance, UBC Young Liberals
• Brent O'Connor, VP, UBC Young Liberals
• Angela Crimeni, VP Membership, UBC Young Liberals

Globe: KENNEDY IS "THE ONE TO WATCH"

2006-09-22T00:07:00.000-07:00

Check out the Globe and Mail's comprehensive profile of Gerard at www.globeandmail.com!

Kennedy is 'the one to watch'

Candidate's youth, optimism and tenacity bolster his bid for the Liberal leadership

MICHAEL POSNER

From Friday's Globe and Mail

TORONTO – Quick, now: What does the jumbled Liberal Party leadership race have in common with an obscure 19th-century English novel? The answer: "a dark horse."
...(FIND THE COMPLETE ARTICLE BY CLICKING HERE, AND CLICK HERE TO EMAIL IT TO A FRIEND OR FELLOW LIBERALS!)

Some Highlights:

"Less sullied and more youthful than his better-known rivals, Mr. Kennedy — neither a Martinite nor a Chrétienite — bears no scars from the party's internecine wars and might thus be regarded as a leader who can heal the rifts."

-------

"More importantly, although 81 per cent of Liberals told the Strategic Counsel they believe the party can form the next government, delegates will, in fact, be electing a new opposition leader, for potentially five years. By that time, Messrs. Ignatieff and Rae, with all their liabilities, would be into their mid-60s — not an age, perhaps, to galvanize the emerging generation. Mr. Kennedy would be just 51, seasoned federally and, leaning slightly left, a nightmare for Jack Layton's NDP."

-------

"Almost everyone who engages with Mr. Kennedy seems to come away impressed: with his intelligence, his command of whatever dossier is in front of him, his commitment to constructive change, his prodigious work ethic and his essential rootedness. Oh yes, and charisma, a word much debased, but applicable to Mr. Kennedy. He may look like a milky chartered accountant, and you're unlikely to ever see him pirouette with a rose in his teeth, but put him in front of a crowd to talk about poverty or education or gender wage equity and the life force emerges, palpably."

-------

"Incredibly smart," said Annie Kidder, executive director of People for Education, an Ontario parents' organization involved in school reform. "He knew the issues up and down, understood the complexity of public education. And he was really passionate about it. He didn't just talk the talk."

-------

"The approach, Mr. Johnston said, did not always endear him to his senior civil servants. "But he's persuasive. I saw him address a roomful of trustees that was ready to lynch him and, after 40 minutes, they gave him a standing ovation."

-------

"In Mr. Fullan's judgment, four things made Mr. Kennedy effective: concern for social justice, his sheer, intellectual prowess, an obsession with results, and indefatigable energy."

-------

Gerard Kennedy and Jeanette Arsenault met at a nightclub in Edmonton in 1981. They were out with another couple. Ms. Arsenault-Kennedy, an Acadian francophone from Prince Edward Island, isn't sure what the other couple talked about, but Mr. Kennedy, she remembers, talked politics.

"That's all we talked about, the entire night." Her first impression? "This is one ambitious and motivated guy... Maybe that's what attracted me. He is solid. He knows what he wants." In fact, not long after they started dating, Mr. Kennedy thought it best to put Ms. Arsenault-Kennedy on notice: "You know," he told his future wife, "one day, I'm going to go into politics. You know that." He was 22.

-------

Gerard, the second of six children, was born with a clubbed left foot, a handicap he refused to let impede him. "My mother actually made me believe that the reason I had a specially built shoe was that the other kids just hadn't got theirs yet," he said. "I could skate before I could properly walk." (BCY4K note: "How Canadian is that?!?!")

A friend of his father's built a reinforced skate and the young Kennedy, in the dogged manner that would come to mark him, "just kept at it and kept at it." At 14, with his older brother Ed, he won a hockey scholarship to Winnipeg's private St. John's-Ravenscourt school. Later, he played at the Junior A level, a rugged defenceman known for his ability to deliver hip checks. In college, he recalled, not without a glint of pride, he put two guys through the glass that way. He still plays in a Queen's Park pick-up league.

"What Gerard may have lacked in athleticism," said Ed, now CEO of the Winnipeg-based North West Company, "he made up for with sheer tenacity. He wasn't reckless on the ice, but he was determined and fearless. He'd immerse himself in the moment and I think it connects to his life. He's purpose-driven. It's hardwired into him."

-------

"I was immediately impressed with him," recalled Jack Harmer, who befriended Mr. Kennedy in Edmonton and has remained a confidante (Mr. Harmer spoke at the Kennedy-Arsenault wedding in 1991 in Wellington, PEI — Jeanette's largely francophone home town — and predicted they'd one day live at 24 Sussex Drive). "He had immense leadership capabilities. He seemed able to do everything. In the course of a day, he'd run budgets, do research, give a speech, negotiate with food companies, handle media interviews and then be out on the floor at midnight filling bags of food that he would personally deliver."

-------

Sue Cox, Mr. Kennedy's No. 2 for eight years in Toronto, said he was "very good at approaching things from a different perspective. The whole volunteer component — that you didn't need money — but could ask for goods and services without offering tax receipts, that was Gerard. He truly believed you could appeal to people's better instincts. Sometimes his faith was vindicated, sometimes it wasn't."

He worked relentlessly. "People would call at all hours of the night because they knew he'd be there."

-------

Over the past six months, Mr. Kennedy has laid out a broad policy template, calling for the adoption of national education standards, gender equity, energy and environmental initiatives and a review of Canada's military mandate in Afghanistan, an issue that threatens to polarize the convention. He's also spent a lot of time talking about enterprise, what he calls "unshackling the power of the individual to make a difference" and promoting "an innovative, risk-taking climate."

-------

The one to watch...

GERARD KENNEDY

Live, from the BC Leadership Debate

2006-09-17T15:56:00.000-07:00

The Growing Gerard Delegation and the BC Debate

2006-09-15T04:55:00.000-07:00

There are now just 75 Days until the Liberal Leadership convention in Montreal, and only 15 Days until the Delegate Selection Meetings that can get you there!

If you're a British Columbian interested in supporting Gerard at convention, call 604-809-9951 or email bc.kennedy.youth@gmail.com TODAY!

The party's deadline for the submission of "Form 6" to become a delegate is 5pm local time today, Friday.

Also, join Gerard and his BC Team at UBC this Sunday for the fourth official all-candidates debate!

Call 604.809.9951 for tickets.

WHEN:
Sunday, September 17, 2006 - The leadership forum will begin at 3p.m.

WHERE:
The Chan Centre, University of British Columbia

TICKETS:
Tickets are $25 and can also be purchased from LPCBC: 460-580 Hornby Street, Vancouver, BC V6C 3B6 - 1-888-411-6511

- - - - - - -

GenerationKennedy.ca Relaunches

2006-09-09T18:12:00.000-07:00

Your one-stop online shop for involvement in the national Kennedy youth campaign has relaunched today!

Visit it now at www.generationkennedy.ca!

Gerard's campaign was among the very first to have dedicated youth campaign websites online and operational, starting right here at BCYouth4Kennedy.

Check back regularly for updates, news, and policy bulletins as we move ever closer to this months DEMs and the convention in Montreal!

Gerard Kennedy on Afghanistan

2006-09-08T23:38:00.000-07:00

GERARD ON AFGHANISTAN - NEW VIDEO MESSAGE

Gerard's position on this issue is bold, unique among the leadership candidates, and very comprehensive. It seems to have been incredibly well-received in the national media and even more so by grassroots Liberals and Canadians across the country.

Are you one of the many Liberals who seem to agree with Kennedy's distinct perspective and proposals?

If so, send a letter to the Prime Minister through Gerard's website, or represent your riding on this issue in Montreal by becoming a GK delegate. Follow the links below to get involved!

Bold new ideas and the will to implement them - Gerard's vision for a renewed female equality commitment

2006-08-26T14:18:00.000-07:00

With BC Youth Campaign Co-Chair Shelby Caravetta at his side, Gerard Kennedy announced an ambitious and comprehensive three point plan to ensure female equality and promote effective early learning this week in Vancouver. So far, the response to the fresh ideas this policy promotes has been overwhelmingly positive, with kudos coming from Liberal bloggers across the country and over 30 mainstream media outlets covering Gerard's innovative proposals and commitments. See Gerard's ideas below!

"There is no other candidate that has made the kind of tangible proposals for economic parity that Gerard has made on behalf of women across the country."

-Shelby Caravetta

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

KENNEDY CALLS FOR RENEWED PUSH FOR FEMALE EQUALITY
For Immediate Release CLICK HERE FOR BACKGROUNDER(PDF)

Says improved participation of women in Canadian economy key in a globalized world

Vancouver, BC - Liberal Leadership candidate Gerard Kennedy today unveiled his plan to improve Canadian competitiveness by bringing the earning levels of women in line with those of men, which has the potential to increase the personal incomes of women currently working in Canada by up to 21 per cent* or $174 billion* and employing 1.6 million* more working-age women.

"Increasing the economic success of women depends on three key areas: childcare, taxation and the need for collaboration among business, labour and government," says Kennedy. "The combination of results-oriented social policies with smart economic initiatives is the means to creating a new Canadian advantage in global competition."

"It's time we became more enterprising in our approach to supporting women and families to give them more choices while maximizing our workforce in a globalized economy."

Kennedy, joined by his BC youth co-chair Shelby Caravetta and Senator Sandra Lovelace Nicholas, noted that effectively addressing the challenges faced by women in the workforce would result in increased earnings for women. He also indicated that a Kennedy-led Liberal Party would put these proposals before the Canadian electorate in the next general election.

The three-point plan consists of:

• A commitment of 0.7 per cent of GDP to childcare and early learning programs in Canada by 2012. o In Canada, the share of GDP devoted to total public expenditures on formal daycare and pre-primary education is 0.3 per cent compared to the OECD average of 0.7 per cent. o Denmark spends 2.7 per cent of GDP, which is considered one reason it ranks among the top-three OECD countries with the highest female workforce participation rates.

• Review the tax rate that is charged on second-earners relative to single earners in Canada, thereby discouraging female labour force participation. Canada ranks near the top of all OECD countries with one of the highest disincentives to two-income couples. The ratio of tax rates between a second earner and a single earner is 1.4 in Canada compared to an average of 1.2 across the OECD. We will look at reducing this disparity in marginal tax rates or eliminating it entirely.

• Create a workplace issues forum that brings together business, labour and government to address:

o Flexible and adequately paid maternity leaves, including job sharing, reduced hours, optional leaves of absence, secondment programs between large and smaller employers, and co-op work arrangements with post secondary educational institutions

o Father-mother parity in early childcare programs to encourage greater participation of fathers in leave programs

o The need for more family-friendly workplaces

o Promotion of apprenticeship programs in the skilled trades to women to achieve greater participation: According to 2001 data from Statistics Canada, men accounted for 91 per cent of total registrations in formal apprenticeship programs. This figure includes food and service trades, such as hairdressers, aestheticians and cooks, plus the "other" category. When these categories are excluded, the share of males jumps significantly higher to 98 per cent of total registrations.

"Gerard knows that the economic success of women is a key factor in the overall success of our globalized economy," said MP Brenda Chamberlain. "To date, only limited links have been made between gender and the economy in our national economic policy and commitments are not widely shared by all ministries."

"Gerard Kennedy represents the next generation of leadership. He is a candidate that will stand up for the rights and preserved equality of women," said Shelby Caravetta, Gerard Kennedy Campaign, BC. "There is no other candidate that has made the kind of tangible proposals for economic parity that Gerard has made on behalf of women across the country."

"Government policies matter," says Senator Sandra Lovelace Nicholas. "We've had generations to prove that women won't achieve equal status without legal protection and the political will for progress. Gerard Kennedy is that leader."

"We must remove the barriers to success for women, for immigrants and for our First Nations, Metis and Inuit communities if Canada is to succeed in a global economy," Kennedy added.

Kennedy unveiled his Immigrant Success platform in May and Energy and Environment platform in June. His Aboriginal platform is anticipated this fall.

* According to a 2005 RBC Financial Group report, The Diversity Advantage: A case for Canada's 21st Century Economy

- 30 -

Kennedy pitches ambitious wage gap solution (from ctv.ca)

Canadian Press Updated: Fri. Aug. 25 2006 4:09 PM ET

VANCOUVER — Liberal leadership hopeful Gerard Kennedy is proposing an ambitious plan to erase the wage gap between men and women.

The plan includes dramatically boosting day care spaces, eliminating inequities in the tax system and collaborating with business and labour to make the work force more equitable and hospitable for women.

Kennedy said his plan would not only give working women the income boost they deserve, it would lure up to 1.6 million more women into the work force.

And, given that Canada's work force is aging and poised to begin shrinking, he said the country's future competitiveness may well depend on increasing the pool of female workers.

"It makes a heck of a lot of sense to encourage them," the former Ontario education minister said in an interview.

Women currently earn about 75 per cent of the income earned by men with the same education and experience.

To close that gap, Kennedy proposes to:

-Devote 0.7 per cent of Canada's gross domestic product to day care and early childhood education programs, up from the current 0.3 per cent. The increase would be phased in over the next five years. Kennedy said his plan is more ambitious - and about $2 billion more expensive - than the previous Liberal government's child care plan, which was to have cost $5 billion over five years. The Tory government scrapped the plan.

-Introduce a series of reforms to make the tax system more family-friendly and to remedy the current situation in which single-earners get more generous tax breaks than dual-earner families.

-Create a workplace issues forum, bringing together government, labour and business to examine ways to make the work force more hospitable to women, including job sharing, flexible hours, better paid maternity leaves and encouraging more women to take apprenticeship programs in skilled trades.

Kennedy said men currently make up 91 per cent of the registrants in apprenticeship programs. If female-dominated trades such as hairdressing and cooking are excluded, men account for fully 98 per cent of registrants in apprenticeship programs.

Kennedy said most Canadians likely think women are well on their way to achieving employment and pay equity. In fact, he said, statistics indicate that progress has stalled over the past few years.

This should be of particular concern to Liberals who pride themselves on being socially progressive, he added.

"We in the Liberal party should be making this one of our tenets as we go forward . . . A lot of the things we think we've done for social equity aren't done yet."

Debate Day, and Gerard's Environment ideas

2006-08-21T01:35:00.000-07:00

British Columbia's first full (albeit unofficial) chance to kick the tires of all ten Liberal leadership candidates will take place at the South Fraser Liberal Action Group (FLAG) Debate at the SFU Surrey Campus at 6:30pm.

Come see Gerard demonstrate to hundreds of British Columbian Liberals and Caucus members from across the country that he has what it takes to lead our party back to victory, and our nation to a truly promising future!

WHEN: 6:30pm tonight, Monday August 21st 2006.
WHERE: The Big Thom Lecture Theatre at Simon Fraser University's Surrey Campus.
COST: Free!
FOR MORE INFO OR TO GET A GERARD SHIRT: Contact us at bc.kennedy.youth@gmail.com!

And while we're discussing BC discussion and debate, much of it is surrounding Canada's response to climate change, the need for new energy sources and efficiency, and environmental protection. This is sure to be an issue of great importance throughout this week's national caucus meetings in Vancouver. For the reference of all of those interested, here once again is Gerard's very comprehensive environmental (energy-oriented) policy discussion paper, first released two months ago:

Energy and the Environment

Canada as a Clean Energy Superpower
Release Date: June 16, 2006

An introduction from former Minister of the Environment, Charles Caccia

When we look around us, we cannot help being struck by the beauty of nature: be it trees, flowers, insects, birds, fish, woods, and all sorts of living beings. At the same time we are becoming increasingly aware of the fact that our activities are having a large impact on what surrounds us. We notice that certain species are becoming endangered, if not extinct; that weather patterns are changing; that on hot days the smog makes it hard to breathe; that water is contaminated in certain regions, that chemicals are leaching into soil, that forests are over cut.

We are told it is inevitable to have a conflict between jobs and the environment, that pollution is part of economic growth, that the economy is more important than the environment, and that given a choice, the economy has to be given precedence over the environment. Of course, we as Liberals don’t subscribe to these beliefs; we leave them to the Conservatives. As Liberals, we have built over time a terrific environmental record: from the Great Lakes Water Quality Agreement to the reductions of acid rain; from the creation of Environment Canada as a government department to the ratification of the Kyoto protocol. From removal of lead from gasoline to legislation on the protection of endangered species.

These are tangible achievements that make us proud as Liberals. And now we have the task to build further on these foundations. We can prove to Canadians that jobs and the environment can go hand in hand. We can prove that economic goals are better achieved in the long run by integrating the economy with the environment. And we can lead Canadians on the international scene where, until recently, we were respected and admired for our fine environmental record.

To this end we need a leader with a strong commitment to the environment and to environmentally sustainable development; a leader who will not only talk but also walk the talk; a leader who sees beyond the horizon of the next election; a leader who can make difficult decisions. We have such a leader in Gerard Kennedy. This paper reflects his outlook. It is also an invitation to Liberals, young and mature to discuss environmental issues and give Gerard the benefit of their reflections, thoughts and advice. I urge you to do so.
-Charles Caccia, MP for Davenport, 1968-2004

Why energy and the environment matter to me – and to all of us

Many of us come from the generation that grew up with environmentalism as the central issue facing the future. I was young when the first environmental stories emerged – about pollution, abuse of pesticides, waste and the squandering of resources. I was a youth when the first energy crisis stuck us in the 1970s – and a young adult in Alberta in the 1980s when the huge policy miscalculation, the National Energy Program, harmed the province at that time. I have most recently served as a cabinet minister in an Ontario Liberal government that has made great strides in environmental protection – but we still have a long way to go.

Energy and the environment are becoming the most crucial issues Canadians face. How we produce and consume energy and what we do to protect and preserve the environment, will determine the sustainability of our economy and our lifestyle.

Unlike the Conservatives, who choose to lay blame, chop programs and then throw up their hands in defeat of the issue…

We need to be enterprising. We need to be creative. We need to act.

Our current path is unsustainable – our energy policies are insufficient and our protection of the environment is too slow and too cautious.

As the population grows, energy and resources are being consumed at an ever-increasing rate. The science is undeniable: without change, our air and water, our forests and food, our cities and our homes will face remarkable challenges within a generation.

Sustainable development is a principle by which all government programs should be measured against. As we address the link between energy and the environment, we can also explore how to alter our lifestyles by:

-Consuming less.
-Being smarter and more efficient in our consumption and purchasing choices.
-Adopting some new thinking about alternative fuels and power.
-Helping emerging economies to grow in a more sustainable manner.

Canada as a Clean Energy Superpower

Canada can be a “Clean Energy Superpower” by 2020 – less than 15 years from now. We are already an energy superpower. We have the know-how and means to be the cleanest on the planet.

We have one of the most dynamic economies on earth and some of the most abundant energy resources including oil and natural gas, the world’s largest production of hydroelectricity and enormous untapped potential in alternative energy such as wind, small/low impact hydro, biomass and geothermal.

Canada is already an energy superpower, and we will become even more of an energy superpower over the next 20 years.

In order to become the clean energy superpower, we must:
-conserve energy, and become much more efficient in the way we use it.
-reduce the amount of carbon we produce relative to the energy we consume; this can be done by switching as much as possible to renewable fuels, as well as using technology to reduce carbon output from fossil fuels.
-develop carbon sequestration technology so that carbon is not released into the atmosphere when it is produced.
-offset the carbon we do produce through “carbon sinks” such as reforestation
-export our technology and expertise so that our economy is further developed while we pursue environmental sustainability.

By consolidating our assets, co-coordinating our energy policies, achieving energy efficiencies, promoting energy conservation, supporting public transit and trains, reshaping the automotive industry and using landfill gases for district heating we can focus on achieving the goal: clean, green power.

Conservatives would abandon Kyoto, cancel incentives and programs to reduce C02 omissions and leave protecting the environment largely to the marketplace. While markets are important and have an important role in solving our energy and environmental challenges, it is only by combining markets with federal, provincial, business and NGO leadership that we will become a clean energy superpower.

Our ability to compete internationally and influence other nations will be measured on our ability to uphold our commitments to the environment.

It is critical that we move forward now.

A National Strategy for Our Environment

The global economy is changing and energy and environment issues are gaining momentum and importance. As an advanced nation, we have a duty and responsibility to develop a plan that maximizes the value of our resources, minimizes the impact of their extraction and utilization and also protects our environment.

We have to decentralize the decision-making process and seek the input of those who are most actively involved in energy production and environmental protection. We must adopt energy and environment policies that reflect the challenges our producers face from the oil fields off Newfoundland’s coast to the energy sector in Alberta.

We need environmental policies that reflect the concerns about smog, water pollution and toxic waste identified by our environmental experts. We need a forum for technology providers that are working to develop new and enterprising innovations and we must consult with aboriginal peoples to protect their ecosystem, while allowing them to take full advantage of the economic opportunities that Canada, as a clean energy super power, will bring.

An Inclusive Framework – How we’ll get there

There is a role for a national framework – a strategy to get the provinces working, in their own way, toward the same common environmental goals and targets.

The framework of the strategy has three pillars –
-it will be based on supply and demand of energy
-it will encourage and reward conservation and the production and use of clean energy
-and it will be measured relentlessly: Is it working? Is it cost-effective? Is the environment getting better and the economy getting stronger?

We will recognize sound environmental stewardship – as a driver for creativity, innovation, product development and ultimately profitability and we will encourage enterprise -- innovators and risk takers should be rewarded for their leadership and for driving innovation.

Elements of the plan include:

1. Setting national objectives for alternative fuels and sources of energy including:
· 5 per cent renewable fuels by 2010 and 10 per cent by 2015 (for example, ethanol, bio-diesel)
· 5000 MW of wind energy by 2010, and 10,000 MW by 2010
· 500 MW of new biomass, geothermal and solar energy by 2010, and 3000 MW by 2015

2. Providing reasonable production incentives to produce renewable energy. For example, we will drive innovation by using the tax code to encourage investment in environmental technologies that will result from higher risk, longer term R&D.

3. Optimizing our national transmission and distribution system (including pipelines and the electricity grids) by:
· Creating national systems that are safe, efficient and secure
· Encouraging investment and development by committing to streamlined and transparent processes (ex. removing duplicative federal and provincial work) and reasonable permitting timelines

4. Encouraging, through federal policies and assistance, provincial utilities to embrace renewable projects and integrate them into their transmission and distribution grids, and to explore energy storage solutions that will make intermittent clean sources of energy more useful in our energy networks

5. Setting national objectives on conservation:

- One per cent improvement in energy consumption per capita in five years and three per cent over the next 10 years. Our energy consumption per capita has been rising over the past 30 years, despite the availability of new technologies. We need to turn this around, and start investing in and using the most efficient equipment and processes available.
- Raising our standards by 25 per cent for energy consumption in new home construction and new appliances by 2015 (through building codes, equipment and appliance standards).

6. Committing government support to smart energy alternatives including:
-Hybrid vehicles
-Hydrogen and fuel cells vehicles and power plants
-Modern, high-efficiency and ultra clean bio-diesel vehicles

7. Introducing a GST exemption of up to $5000, for smart energy vehicles and a progressive gas-guzzler tax on all vehicles that have worse than average fuel consumption.

Canadian cars are typically on the road for more than 12 years. We need to encourage consumers to buy fuel-efficient vehicles, which will have an important impact on the environment for years to come.

8. Ensuring that 50 per cent of the government’s fleet purchases are hybrids or alternative fuelled vehicles by 2010 and 100 percent by 2015.

9. Creating programs and greater incentives for conservation including home retrofit programs, pilot programs to monitor energy consumption and energy cost by the minute. At the same time, speed up the approval process for new energy-savings products and systems.

10. Encouraging the highest possible efficiency in home and commercial heating and cooling by providing incentives for ground-source heat pumps. The province of Manitoba has made important strides in this area, and that good work should be replicated nationally.

11. Instilling reachable goals. All new, large energy development projects should have an “environmentally neutral footprint” (for example, if greenhouse gases and local pollutants will be increased, there must be an offset for the project to move forward). Further, we should introduce a mandatory market-based system that allows companies to register and trade emission credits.

Taking Action

We have been talking about solutions for years – it’s time to do it. We have to merge and integrate environment and economic policies. We have to modernize federal and provincial tax systems. We have to give momentum to environmentally beneficial technologies. As Liberals, and only Liberals, we can finally make Canada the “Clean Energy Superpower” it should be.

Your feedback on this discussion paper is welcome and solicited. It should be sent to the Kennedy feedback email address at cleanenergy@gerardkennedy.ca.

GENERATIONKENNEDY.CA LAUNCHES!

2006-08-11T19:48:00.000-07:00

Ladies and gentlemen, the long-anticipated GenerationKennedy.ca site has arrived, and was announced and officially launched today. This is an excellent new way for you to "get plugged in" to Gerard's incredible national youth campaign, and all of the excitement, enthusiasm, and momentum that's been generated as a result of it. Check out this release from the youth campaign today:

Make your voice heard today!

- - - - - - -

For Immediate Release - Friday, August 11, 2006

Young Kennedy Supporters Use Web to Gain Political Voice
www.generationkennedy.ca Provides Forum for Discussion, Ideas

Toronto, ON - Young supporters of Liberal leadership candidate Gerard Kennedy today launched www.GenerationKennedy.ca to provide an online forum for the exchange of ideas in support of Liberal Party renewal and Kennedy's leadership candidacy.

"Young people from across the country are looking for ways to show their support and contribute to Gerard Kennedy’s campaign. GenerationKennedy.ca is about increasing the dialogue between Kennedy and young Canadians. It is also a proactive way for youth to get involved and claim ownership within the political process," said Marek Krasula a young Quebecer who decided to support Gerard Kennedy's bid to lead and renew the Liberal Party.

The website will present policy, campaign developments and convention information in a dynamic and engaging manner designed to promote interaction between Kennedy and youth supporters. Features include a section for weekly guest bloggers and an interactive Policy Forum to follow shortly.

GenerationKennedy.ca is an innovative initiative within the Liberal Leadership Race. It is the first website of any candidate that is created, operated and maintained by youth for youth.

"The motivation for creating a youth-driven website was modeled on Gerard's history of rolling up his sleeves to make a difference. We decided to create a space that youth could call their own and make it such that their voices could cause a real impact and have a real say in Gerard's bid for leader," said the campaign's national youth director Perry Tsergas. "We've seen how one person can motivate many and that's our goal - to communicate to everyone that under Gerard's leadership, young people can play a meaningful role in reshaping the Liberal Party into a 21st Century political party."

Kennedy commented, "Youth are the driving force in reshaping the Liberal Party. They represent the future of Canada, so it's very exciting to see groups like Generation Kennedy finding innovative ways to raise their voices and participate in the political process."

- 30 -

For more information, please contact:
Jessica Martin, National Office 1-800-622-9399, JMartin@GerardKennedy.ca
Perry Tsergas, National Youth Director, Perry@GenerationKennedy.ca

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Kennedy hammers immoral Conservative fundraising

2006-07-30T13:11:00.000-07:00

When Public Eye Online's Sean Holman broke the story of the Conservative party exploiting the current Middle Eastern conflict in for partisan gain through their email fundraising, many of us in BC were appalled that the Prime Minister and/or his party would sink to such lows.

Many of us were also pleasantly surprised though to see such a strong and speedy response from Gerard Kennedy, who made it very clear he thought Harper had crossed a very serious line.

We have people dying and families being displaced on both sides of this conflict and meanwhile, Stephen Harper is allowing his foreign policy to be used as a partisan fundraising tool," Kennedy said.

Clearly, the Canadian mainstream media had a similar level of interest, placing Gerard's no-nonsense comments and views in over 21 major newspapers across the country.

Here are links to some of those stories, and Gerard's full statement is included below:

"Tories seek donations to defend Ottawa's stand on Middle East"
"Tories draw on Mideast crisis to raise money"

"Tories milk war for cash"

KENNEDY CONDEMNS IMMORAL CONSERVATIVE FUNDRASING TACTICS

Toronto, ON -- Liberal leadership candidate Gerard Kennedy today condemned the Conservative Party of Canada for using the recent conflict in the Middle East as a partisan fundraising tool in reaction to an appeal sent out last night from Conservative Party executive director Michael Donison.

“We have people dying and families being displaced on both sides of this conflict and meanwhile, Stephen Harper is allowing his foreign policy to be used as a partisan fundraising tool. This crosses the line.”

Under the heading, Finally - A Leader who's willing to stand up and take a tough stand, Conservative Party Executive Director Michael Donison emailed party supporters asking for "a special contribution now of $150 or $75" in response to Harper's "principled stand on the new turmoil in the Mid-East".

Kennedy called on the Prime Minister to denounce the email and state clearly that Canada’s foreign policy is not a partisan political tool to be wielded crassly for the sake of Conservative Party gain.

- 30 –

"Young volunteers" key to the successful Kennedy campaign: Toronto Star

2006-07-22T03:05:00.000-07:00

There is still so much work to be done, but at this point the Gerard Kennedy youth campaign is on a bit of a roll! In an article entitled "Gerard Kennedy suddenly on everyone's radar screen," Today's Toronto Star (Canada's most widely-circulated newspaper) credits Kennedy's young volunteers with putting his campaign on the map in this leadership race in a very significant and successful way.

Here are two quotes from the article:

"Young volunteers key to his team's success so far." - Linda Diebel, Toronto Star

"With the new membership breakdowns obtained by the Toronto Star last week, it's as if Kennedy came out of nowhere to score the most new recruits in British Columbia and a position near the top in all other provinces, except Quebec. How did he do it? In a simple answer, youth. He has an impressive network of volunteers — the majority under 25 and many associated with campus clubs — who signed up new members. " - Linda Diebel, Toronto Star

-------

Our thanks go out to the young Kennedy volunteers in BC and across Canada who have put so much time, effort, and talent into making Gerard our new leader. This recognition is definitely a testament to the enthusiastic, diverse, and effective youth team Gerard has been building across the nation, and the hard work we've done to reach out to Liberals everywhere.

Having worked as Education Minister in Ontario and with disadvantaged youth throughout his earlier adult life, Gerard understands the problems that face Canadian young people today and has both the experience and ideas necessary to help them develop and fulfill their potential.

The campaign is no where close to finished though, and we need your new and continued help and involvement to make this happen.

Now is the time to help Gerard realize the Liberal Party's potential as an inclusive party committed to practically-minded progress.

Get involved today!

Be a part of it!
Join Gerard's growing BC Youth Team!

Gerard on the Middle East Conflict

2006-07-20T18:28:00.000-07:00

This website is usually dedicated exclusively to the BC youth aspect of Gerard Kennedy's Liberal leadership campaign, but one of the most intensely and frequently discussed topics at Camp Wanna Be Free amongst BC and Western youth supporting a variety of Liberal leadership candidates was that of the current conflict in Northern Israel and Lebanon. For the benefit of the many of you who were and are interested in what Gerard has to say on such a crucial issue, his official statement (released early yesterday) is attached below. We extend our most sincere sympathies and condolences to the families of all those affected by this crisis.

- - - - - - -

STATEMENT RE: CONFLICT IN THE MIDDLE EAST

by the Hon. Gerard Kennedy, candidate for the leadership of the Liberal Party of Canada:

I extend my deepest sympathies to the families and friends of the Canadian victims of the bombings in Lebanon.

All of the civilian casualties in the latest escalation of conflict are tragic and highly regrettable and should give rise to a ceasefire by all parties.

The safety of remaining Canadian citizens in the region should receive the Canadian government's highest priority.

I agree with the G8 call for "utmost restraint" on the part of Israel as it exercises its right of self-defense and I deplore the fact that extremists from Hezbollah and Hamas have once again hijacked the agenda in the Middle East.

The situation calls for urgent diplomatic initiatives to help change the predictable dynamics for further escalation now in place. As such, I welcome the G8 communique and I urge the Prime Minister to maintain the balanced viewpoint reflected in it, and exercise a constructive voice for Canada in this regard.

In particular, I call upon Prime Minister Harper to use Canadian diplomatic resources to dialogue with all legitimate parties in the region to establish conditions to defuse the current situation.

Canada can and should play a leadership role in working with the international community to find a peaceful resolution. I encourage the Harper government to do everything possible to act quickly and with purpose in this regard.

-30-

Generation Kennedy at Camp Wanna Be Free

2006-07-18T23:24:00.000-07:00

Last weekend's "Camp Wanna Be Free" near Peachland in British Columbia was a resounding success, largely due to the smooth preparation and organization by Oz Jungic, LPCBC's Provincial Youth Director. With participants coming from as far away as the Yukon and Toronto, it was a remarkable coming-together of varied Liberal backgrounds, perspectives, and experiences, and was the perfect setting for some lively Young Liberal good times.

The Kennedy contingent was surprisingly and noticably strong, and was certainly representative of the large, diverse, and enthusiastic team he has been building among youth across the country. In the photo above of some of the Generation Kennedy team, you can find Gerard supporters Dan Arnold, President of the Alberta Young Liberals; Kyle Carruthers, President of the Yukon Young Liberals; Coco Lefoka, President of the Young Liberals here in BC; Zach Jeffries, President of the Saskatchewan Young Liberal Organization; and BC Youth 4 Kennedy Campaign Co-Chairs Shelby Caravetta, Scott Ross, and Braeden Caley, along with many other hardworking and dedicated (and apparently fun-loving!) Young Liberals supporting Gerard, and one supporting Scott Brison.

For more information about Gerard's candidacy or how to get involved on his growing campaign, please don't hesitate to contact us at bc.kennedy.youth@gmail .com, or get directly involved in Gerard's policy dialogue by clicking here.

For a more detailed account (and more pictures!) of Camp Wanna Be Free, visit Saskatchewan Youth Campaign Co-Chair Sarah Turnbull's blog at Gerard's Online Community!

Kennedy leads in the west!

2006-07-06T13:51:00.000-07:00

From today's Edmonton Sun:

OTTAWA -- Former Ontario education minister Gerard Kennedy's campaign to lead the federal Liberals is boasting the top spot in Alberta and British Columbia at the end of the party's membership drive.

READ MORE!

To get involved in this critical next phase of our campaign to make Gerard our leader, contact us at bc.kennedy.youth@gmail.com!

M DAY

2006-07-04T13:59:00.000-07:00

Today is M Day, the membership cutoff day to join the Liberal Party and support Gerard at September's delegate selection meetings. Take this great opportunity to change your party and your nation for the better. Join today!

Also, a big thanks to the countless young volunteers working hard on the ground for Gerard, and to the hardworking party staff working to receive the paper work for the party's thousands of new members.

Gerard in BC!

2006-06-30T00:01:00.000-07:00

REMINDER! Gerard is in BC today!

Two of his visits include:

10 AM - Abbotsford, at the home of Past Candidate Moe Gill - 33410 Huntingdon Road.

12PM - Surrey, at the ABC Restaraunt at 7380 King George Highway (Lunch, hosted by FLAG)

Everyone is welcome to attend!

Click here or see the right hand sidebar to view his video membership message!

"Hi There, it's Gerard Kennedy"

2006-06-27T23:06:00.000-07:00

A new last-minute membership message from Gerard:

Click here or see the right hand sidebar to view the video message!

Generation Kennedy Event Pictures

2006-06-26T00:14:00.000-07:00

Here is a selection of photos from the BC Youth Campaign's Generation Kennedy event on Friday evening. They can also be found on our Photo Gallery page. It was a fantastic event and we look forward to many more, and to having Gerard Kennedy as Liberal Leader!

Popular Former Vancouver Mayor and Current Liberal Senator Larry Campbell addresses the crowd before the Gerard intro video and Gerard digital welcoming message were played on the big screens.

Taylor Briggs, President of the UBC Young Liberals, and Richmond's Steven Lee with the Honourable Raymond Chan, MP for Richmond

Taylor discusses the Harper agenda and Gerard's candidacy with MP Raymond Chan

Senator Campbell gets into a lively discussion with three Young Liberal Kennedy supporters

Senator Campbell with UBC Young Liberals

MP Raymond Chan addresses the crowd

Generation Kennedy Event Inspires Action

2006-06-24T03:18:00.000-07:00

Tonight's Generation Kennedy BC Youth Campaign Launch event was absolutely incredible. Held at Vancouver's trendy "Slimz" restaurant, the evening event drew over 80 people, and played host to some really great conversation, team-building, and all-around good times!

A highlight for many was the visit from Kennedy caucus supporters Raymond Chan and Larry Campbell. Both men went table-to-table and person-to-person amongst the crowd to introduce themselves, and share their reasons for endorsing and supporting Gerard.

In a speech to the crowd, Mr. Chan spoke of Gerard's amazing leadership record and organizational experience, having been able to earn donations worth over $30 million to the major food bank he ran and recruit the thousands of volunteers necessary to widely distribute the food resources. He also talked about how, in government, Gerard managed to turn around Ontario's struggling education system, and how his entire life's work has demontrated a commitment to helping and serving ordinary Canadians.

Senator Larry Campbell also addressed the crowd, and like Raymond Chan, received wide and very robust applause for his remarks. Campbell spoke of how important it was to have a candidate with the ability to get the Liberal Party "out of the penalty box" and into a position where it can fight Stephen Harper from a position of great strength, and how Gerard's youth, energy and well-defined ideas and values make him the best person for the task.

After the speeches, the crowd watched Gerard's famous introduction video on the bar's big screen TV, and cheers came from throughout the crowd as the narrator proclaimed "We can do this."

Then, as a very special surprise, Gerard spoke to the crowd directly from the same screen, as the campaign played a video message he had recorded just hours earlier. In it, Gerard thanked the BC youth for attending the great event and spoke of the importance of having youth come together across the country to share their openness to change, and excercise their "meaningful voice every step of the way" on this long campaign trail.

"In every generation, the real changes that are needed only happen if the people who are most open to change, the youth, make them happen," he said. "That's what the Liberal Party - and that's what Canada - needs."

The experience was a great one for everyone involved, and we all look forward to many similar and even better events and gatherings to come!

Thanks to all who attended,

-The BCY4K Team

P.S. A large collection of photos from the event should be uploaded to the photo gallery by mid-Sunday

AND REMEMBER: You only have until July 4th at the very latest to join the Liberal Party and vote for Gerard! Use the links on the right sidebar of this website to join the party and find resources to help you share Gerard's message.

REMINDER! Generation Kennedy BC Youth Event Tonight! Larry Campbell and Raymond Chan to Attend!

2006-06-23T02:23:00.000-07:00

GENERATION KENNEDY

JOIN M.P. RAYMOND CHAN

AND SENATOR LARRY CAMPBELL

FOR THE GENERATION KENNEDY

BC CAMPAIGN KICKOFF!

The Gerard Kennedy BC Youth Campaign would like to extend an invitation for you and all Young Liberals from across BC to join us and have a great time at the Generation Kennedy BC Campaign kickoff!

Gerard represents Canada’s next generation of leadership. His ideas-based campaign and his comprehensive, forward-looking vision for Canada are attracting the support of thousands of young people from across the country. Now is your chance to support a candidate who listens to, understands, and stands up for Canada’s next generation!

Where: Slimz BBQ Restaurant @ 2884 W Broadway (just west of Macdonald), Vancouver BC
When: Friday June 23, 7:30pm- 9:30pm
Who: Gerard’s BC Campaign Team - (including the Hon. Raymond Chan & Senator Larry Campbell)

We would love to see Young Liberals from all over the province come out, have a great time, and meet the Kennedy BC Team.

See you there!

- From the BCY4K Team

Youth 2 Moncton

2006-06-16T21:49:00.000-07:00

Kennedy Youth Directors Perry Tsergas and Alex Maheu are traveling with another Youth 4 Kennedy, Cyndi Jenkins, to Moncton for the 2nd Liberal Leadership Debate.

You can follow their exploits here, as they live-blog their way half way across the country!

"CANADA AS A CLEAN ENERGY SUPERPOWER"

2006-06-16T18:03:00.000-07:00

Hot off the presses, here is a very significant part of Gerard Kennedy's amazingly comprehensive plan and platform for achieving environmental sustainability, especially focusing on energy. As young people, few issues could be as important and as urgent as this, and Gerard's approach looks to be very, very solid. The plan is as follows, preceded by an introduction by the Hon. Charles Caccia.

- - - - - - -

Energy and the Environment
Release Date: June 16, 2006

During the months of the Liberal leadership campaign, Gerard Kennedy will bring forward his ideas for doing politics differently. Gerard believes that a good leader sets direction but also allows for broad discussion and input. The policy ideas being put forward in the form of discussion papers depend on the participation of the campaign team, liberal membership and public at large.

Over the next 3 weeks, you can have your say! Provide feedback on the discussion topics by visiting the Policy Dialogue section of the website at www.gerardkennedy.ca

When the 3-week feedback period has expired, we will repost the discussion papers, complete with the new views presented by participants.
Everything starts with a purpose. Here, we're setting the table for openness and inclusion with the hope that you'll join!

Why energy and the environment matter to me – and to all of us

Our current path is unsustainable – our energy policies are insufficient and our protection of the environment is too slow and too cautious.

Canada as a Clean Energy Superpower

Canada can be a “Clean Energy Superpower” by 2020 – less than 15 years from now. We are already an energy superpower. We have the know-how and means to be the cleanest on the planet.

Canada is already an energy superpower, and we will become even more of an energy superpower over the next 20 years.

A National Strategy for Our Environment

An Inclusive Framework – How we’ll get there

There is a role for a national framework – a strategy to get the provinces working, in their own way, toward the same common environmental goals and targets.

Elements of the plan include:

Cheaper Hybrids, Better Air - A Step Towards Sustainability

2006-06-15T23:07:00.000-07:00

Gerard Delivers on a Major LPCBC Policy Convention Theme

Kennedy proposes tax on gas guzzlers
Jun. 15, 2006. 04:57 PM
CANADIAN PRESS

OTTAWA — Canada should impose a tax on gas-guzzling SUVs and cut the GST on hybrid vehicles to help meet its Kyoto commitments, says Liberal leadership candidate Gerard Kennedy.

Kennedy said Thursday that those two measures would yield a "much more practical" reduction in greenhouse gas emissions than the carbon tax floated by leadership frontrunner Michael Ignatieff.

Kennedy, a Manitoba-born former Ontario education minister, claimed he brings a "western sensibility" to the leadership race. He said a carbon tax would unfairly penalize oil-rich Alberta, incense the energy industry and be counterproductive.

"We need the oil sector on side. Eight per cent of our increase in greenhouse gases came from the oil sands," Kennedy told The Canadian Press.

"We need to be working with them and what we don't want to do is cause a huge flight of capital and damage our resource industry that has been part of Canada's economic power."

Kennedy added that "Western Canada has to stop being the afterthought" when it comes to Liberal policy.

"If you're building policies you should ask yourself how they wear in all parts of the country, which is something that the Liberal party has to get better at."

Kennedy reiterated that he's open to running in a western riding for a seat in Parliament. He said there's actually "a small bidding war" among Liberals urging him to run in various places, including Lethbridge, Alta.

Ignatieff has been criticized by some rival candidates as well as Prime Minister Stephen Harper for raising the idea of a carbon tax at the first all-candidates' debate last weekend.

Ignatieff, a rookie Toronto MP and acclaimed scholar, is widely considered the early frontrunner in the race to succeed former prime minister Paul Martin. His 10 rivals have begun sharpening their attacks on him.

Still, Kennedy said it's too early in the race, which culminates at a Dec. 3 convention in Montreal, to predict who's going to win. His own experience suggests that frontrunner status can actually be a liability.

"Having done frontrunner before, should Mr. Ignatieff wish to claim it, he's welcome to have that. I'm here to officially cede the position," he joked.

Kennedy was the frontrunner in the 1996 Ontario Liberal leadership. But he eventually lost to Dalton McGuinty, who came from well behind on the first ballot to win on the fifth.

Kennedy also had some harsh words for Conservative Prime Minister Stephen Harper, whom he accused of pitting province against province with his reckless promise to remedy the so-called fiscal imbalance.

Premiers are bitterly divided over how to redress the problem, particularly when it comes to proposals to boost equalization payments to poor provinces.

"The worst things that will happen in a country, it would be like a family, is a fight about money," Kennedy said.

"I think this is quite hazardous stuff. You do not want people in one part of the country having envy for people elsewhere."

Kennedy questioned whether there really is an imbalance, wherein the federal government has more money than it needs while the provinces struggle to pay for costly health care, education and other social services.

He allowed that the federal government is awash in huge surpluses. But until Ottawa invests in programs needed to ensure Canada can compete globally against economic superpowers like India, China and Brazil, Kennedy said it would be foolhardy to transfer a big chunk of those surpluses in perpetuity to the provinces.

Moreover, he said Harper has already eaten up so much of the surplus with tax cuts that he won't be able to deliver on his fiscal imbalance promise. Harper could thus wind up "disappointing Quebecers," who are most adamant about resolving the issue, and potentially reigniting separatist sentiment.

"Nobody I think believes we're on sanguine terms in terms of a reckoning with Quebec's place in Confederation. All the more reason not to politicize (this issue)."

Practical Idealism - The Liberal's Party's Way Forward

2006-06-15T22:33:00.000-07:00

KENNEDY TOUTS PRACTICAL IDEALISM
Wednesday, June 14, 2006 Winnipeg Free Press, Greg Lockert

Federal Liberal leadership hopeful Gerard Kennedy is easy on the ears. He sports a deep, clear voice that would be as perfect for the world of broadcasting as it is for political life. Were he to become prime minister, he could probably one-up former prime minister Brian Mulroney's smooth delivery -- without the blarney.

Kennedy, who is originally from The Pas, said he has a Western sensibility that has been lacking in the federal Liberals for a long time. He figures he can regenerate the Liberals out West.

"We can't be blanked out in the West and still be a national party," he said. And he said the party is ready for someone originally from the West. "The party has never been so open as this."

Until recently, Kennedy was a strong cabinet minister in Ontario Premier Dalton McGuinty's provincial government. The future appeared wide open to him in Ontario provincial politics. So what would convince a young, successful education minister to take a stab at becoming national Liberal leader?

For Kennedy, it's all about saving both the federal Liberal party and the country. Kennedy is convinced that the Liberals and Canada are adrift and he's the guy to set them back on the correct course. The Liberals, Kennedy told the Free Press editorial board on Monday, were lulled into complacency by a divided opposition once they had cured Canada of its deficit. As for the country, he claimed it's falling behind in the global economic race, and said that Prime Minister Stephen Harper's "neo-con" and "Republican" style of government is doing nothing to stop that decline.

Kennedy intends to fix both the Liberal party and Canada by forming "a coalition of practical progressives" under the Liberal banner, and developing "a new value of enterprise" that would involve setting targets for Canada and benchmarks toward achieving them. Keys to achieving these targets would be skills training and targeted social programs. Kennedy said there is a large pool of money available to fund training through federal skills and training.

Kennedy, a former food bank executive in Edmonton and Toronto, also preaches an economic message, saying he has an "enterprising outlook." He said that Canada has become complacent and that too many Canadians are afraid of risk.

"We need a longer-term view if we're going to compete," he said, adding that targeted tax incentives and market-driven incentives can be used to bolster Canada economically, especially regarding things such as venture capital. Programs like equalization, which he supports in principle, too often fail to offer incentives for economic progress, Kennedy said.

Vision for Canada

Kennedy's vision for Canada is grand and ambitious. He doesn't talk like a status-quo politician. But his goals for education are fraught with danger because education is a provincial jurisdiction and provinces jealously guard their control over schools, colleges and universities. It would be especially difficult for Kennedy to get Quebec on board.

But Kennedy surely understands the challenge ahead of him should he become Liberal leader. Otherwise, why would he seek to become Canada's education prime minister? No, Kennedy didn't use those exact words during his meeting with the Free Press. And he would probably chafe at hearing them owing to the fact that George W. Bush once said he wanted to become the United States' education president. But the topic of education continually pops up in conversation with Kennedy, and education prime minister would be an appropriate moniker for him.

Political message

Kennedy's political message is high-minded and idealistic. He said he never planned to become a politician, but decided to make the jump from food bank executive to politician when he became disenchanted by the Mike Harris Conservatives during the 1990s in Ontario. Kennedy clearly respects the role of government in people's lives and believes in its power to improve the economic lot of Canadians.

And twice, during his meeting with the Free Press, Kennedy mentioned the name of British Prime Minister Tony Blair, who has been a role model to many who are optimistic about the ability of government to better human society. Although Kennedy is careful to distance himself from Blair's foreign policy regarding issues like the Iraq war, he said he has met with Blair's people in the past and respects "Blair's realism."

Where Kennedy will find a real battle during his leadership run is over Canada's role in Afghanistan. He has spoken against the recent House of Commons vote that extended Canada's current mission in Afghanistan by two years, and told the editorial board that he doesn't "support being in Afghanistan on a blank cheque."

Kennedy's stand runs against Liberal leadership front-runner Michael Ignatieff. It also contradicts interim Liberal leader Bill Graham, the former Liberal defence minister who oversaw Canada's growing military deployment in Afghanistan while Paul Martin was prime minister.

Kennedy likes to talk about traditional Canadian peacekeeping and reconstruction efforts without facing up to the fact that none of that can occur in Afghanistan until the Taliban has been militarily crushed. And it's unlikely that the United States can permanently defeat the Taliban without the help of its allies, which is why NATO is in Afghanistan to begin with.

Alas, Kennedy probably realizes this, but knows that there is a sizable Liberal constituency that won't support his leadership bid if he backs Canada's current strategies and tactics in Afghanistan. After all, the current government is run by that so-called neo-con and Republican, Stephen Harper.

This knee-jerk opposition reveals that although Kennedy may be an idealist, he still retains a sense of realpolitik that enables him to back policies that are clearly illogical and contradictory. In that way, he is likely well-suited to leading a national political party.

"A new era in Canadian politics"

2006-06-14T23:37:00.000-07:00

ANOTHER BCY4K ENDORSEMENT:

"After meeting, then doing some research on Gerard Kennedy I am now surer than ever that he is the best person to lead the Liberal Party of Canada and indeed the nation into a new and great era.

I had the pleasure of personally meeting Mr. Kennedy in Kelowna, and I knew I was in the midst of a person with immense charisma and a grand vision for the party and the country as a whole. Aside from treating me, and the other young liberals present, with the utmost of respect, he went on to encourage us to become actively engaged in the political process, unlike any other candidate that I have ever encountered. This was very encouraging and refreshing as you might well imagine.

Essentially, Mr. Kennedy had the effect of revitalizing my faith and energy in federal politics. I am confident he will do the same for the Liberal party. Aside from rebuilding our party, I believe, due to his amazing record of public service, that Mr. Kennedy has the ability and heartfelt intention of restoring Canada’s role and image as a leader in humanitarian, social and economic efforts, both nationally and internationally.

If given the opportunity I believe he can be the Prime Minister to bring Canada to the forefront of international affairs, making it a leader nation whose values and reputation are applauded and respected worldwide, as they once were. To me, Gerard Kennedy represents the ushering in of a new era in Canadian politics, an era which I am extremely proud to be part of and support."

- Matthew Dyck, an Active Young Liberal and BC Youth 4 Kennedy from BC's Beautiful Interior

Gerard's Online Community

2006-06-13T23:28:00.000-07:00

Gerard's OC at the national website has just recently gone live, and features a number of prominent Liberal bloggers as they provide insightful and up-to-date analysis and commentary on Gerard's campaign and the leadership race as it unfolds.

Check it out today!

http://www.gerardkennedy.ca/blog_e.aspx

"Young, bilingual and has good social credibility."

2006-06-13T17:38:00.000-07:00

Debate recap:

"Kennedy, 45, and the freshest federal face, has been an impressive cabinet minister in McGuinty's Ontario government. He has also lived in Manitoba and Alberta. At 22, he established Canada's first-ever food bank, in Edmonton. During the debate he proved the most intense and aggressive debater."

- Vancouver Sun, Barbara Yaffe

"Ten years ago, the Manitoba-born and educated former food bank director was favoured to take over the leadership of the Ontario Liberals. But some guy named Dalton McGuinty surprised Kennedy on the final ballot. A decade later, Kennedy, 45, is again in the leadership game after resigning his cabinet post as McGuinty's education minister.

Kennedy would seem to come straight out of central casting for Liberal leaders. He's young, bilingual and has good social credibility. He is also working contacts within education circles to maximum benefit."

- Winnipeg Free Press, Paul Samyn

"Sparks were flying in Winnipeg at Saturday's first all-candidates meeting for the federal Liberal leadership. Michael Ignatieff was targeted by a number of other contenders on such issues as the Kyoto Accord and his support for prolonging Canada's mission in Afghanistan. Joe Volpe accused Ignatieff of being too close to a Conservative point of view. Meanwhile, former Ontario Education Minister Gerard Kennedy focused on outlining his plan to build a Liberal party from the ground up - by putting social justice and economic prosperity on the same level."

- Jason McIntyre, CFRA

"Obviously I'm somewhat biased, but I think Kennedy did himself a lot of favours with his performance. He was probably the best speaker of the evening and showed a lot more passion and fire than I've seen from him before. You can only do so much with the format and Gerard managed to explain why he's running and what problems face the country. He also came across looking Prime Ministerial when Volpe and Bevilacqua teamed up on him in the break out debate."

- Calgary Grit

"That's why Gerard's my guy."

2006-06-13T00:36:00.000-07:00

A SMALL SAMPLING OF GERARD'S BC YOUTH TEAM ENDORSEMENTS:

"Whether it was his time as food bank director, or as a member of the Ontario provincial cabinet, Gerard consistently is a results-getting politician. Canada needs more of those. Badly. I also believe Gerard has the ability to weather the Conservative storm that is currently over Canada, leading the party through a phase of renewal in mission, methods, policies, and people. Plainly put, I see Gerard as the best voice for the Liberals for the future.That's why Gerard's my guy."

- Michael Thom, Active Liberal and BC Youth 4 Kennedy Campaign Committee Member

More to be posted soon...

Kennedy Video: "We can do this"

2006-06-10T02:44:00.000-07:00

Gerard's New Introduction Video:

View this unique and comprehensive new introduction video about Gerard and his campaign by clicking here.

-BCY4K

Gerard and the "Great Debate"

2006-06-10T02:20:00.000-07:00

British Columbians can tune in to watch Gerard Kennedy and the other Liberal Leadership candidates participate in the contest's first debate today, Saturday June 10th, at 12:00pm Pacific time, and 1:00pm Mountain time.

The forum will be covered live on CPAC, CBC Newsworld, and CTV Newsnet.

Gerard Kennedy banking on his western roots

2006-06-05T17:16:00.000-07:00

"Plans to take lessons learned establishing Canada's first food bank in Edmonton, and in Queen's Park, to Ottawa if he becomes the next leader of the Liberal party."

An excellent article on Gerard and his campaign from the Edmonton Journal: find it here.

Welcome to the BC Youth 4 Kennedy Homepage

2006-05-30T18:32:00.000-07:00

Tell a friend about bcyouth4kennedy.blogspot.com, an innovative launchpad, rallying point, and resource centre for British Columbian young people interested in supporting Gerard Kennedy and his vision for Canada.

Gerard has an exciting and grassroots-inspired vision of balance between enterprise and practical compassion, and the kind of passionate, principled, and focused leadership Canada needs.

Join the growing BC youth campaign to make Gerard the next Prime Minister of Canada! Contact the campaign at bc.kennedy.youth@gmail.com, and subscribe to our email list below for regular updates. Thanks for your interest and support!

- Braeden, Scott, and Shelby
BCY4K Campaign Co-Chairs

Toronto Rally Pictures

2006-05-29T02:22:00.000-07:00

GK Photo Gallery

2006-05-28T23:33:00.000-07:00

The BC Youth Campaign's GK Photo Gallery

GENERATION KENNEDY EVENT - June 23rd at Vancouver's Slimz Restaurant

Here is a selection of photos from the BC Youth Campaign's Generation Kennedy event on Friday evening. It was a fantastic event and we look forward to many more, and to having Gerard Kennedy as Liberal Leader!

Popular Former Vancouver Mayor and Current Liberal Senator Larry Campbell addresses the crowd before the Gerard intro video and Gerard digital welcoming message were played on the big screens.

Taylor Briggs, President of the UBC Young Liberals, and Richmond's Steven Lee with the Honourable Raymond Chan, MP for Richmond

Taylor discusses the Harper agenda and Gerard's candidacy with MP Raymond Chan

Senator Campbell gets into a lively discussion with three Young Liberal Kennedy supporters

Senator Campbell with UBC Young Liberals

MP Raymond Chan addresses the crowd.

GERARD KENNEDY LAUNCH EVENT - May 28th at the Delta Vancouver Airport Hotel

The Hon. Raymond Chan, Shelby Caravetta, Letlotlo Lefoka, Chanchal Bal, Jennifer Hatton, Scott Ross, and Braeden Caley join the Hon. Gerard Kennedy on stage for his historic BC Campaign Launch on Sunday May 28th.

The view from the captivated crowd... It is estimated that over 275 people attended!

Campaign co-chairs Jennifer Hatton, the Hon. Raymond Chan, and Chanchal Bal join Gerard after Gerard's major speech.