ideologically-based politics

Saw good example why many Canadians have difficulty supporting a party like the NDP. At their convention which I watched on the parliamentary channele yesterday, many delegates indicated outright opposition to public-private partnerships (3P). In most cases they were focussing on 3P in the health sector. Much of that opposition makes sense to me. A 3P health project invariably means government re-allocates money to support these projects and may mean a shift AWAY from other government priorities be they health care, education, transportation etc. In theory I believe 3P is 'bad' for essential government services.

But the reality is there are so many legitimate demands for public services in Canada. Even provincial NDP governments have engaged in 3P projects (mind you they might be 'at pains' not to call them 3P). I remember when I worked in Saskatchewan, legislation was introduced by my department authorizing 'transportation partnerships' whereby government and 'other persons' (meaning companies) could jointly fund road development.

The outright condemnation of the concept demonstrates what I would call an 'immature' attitude by some of the delegates I saw speak at the convention.

It reminds me of some of the attitudes I frequently hear from our current federal government supporters. Blanket condemnations of government's role in our economy, the attitude towards immigrants, and other disadvantaged groups also are 'immature' statements and reflect ideologically-based views.

Whichever party makes Canadians feel it is pragmatic and willing to compromise, is the party that will inevitably succeed in our federal political scene.