The following is a speech I made on the floor of the NH House of Representatives (2/9/11) regarding a resolution asking the NH House to condemn Canada.
R. Gagnon – Testimony HR-6
Mr. Speaker – I rise today to oppose HR 6 – while I certainly recognize that this came out of committee as unanimously OTP – I cannot concur and consent to this piece of legislation.
Since when does this body not uphold the fundamental right of – DUE PROCESS? Whatever happened to having one’s day in court before being condemned?
Because that’s what this resolution does? Without knowing the full story and all the facts, regardless of the point that this matter is in litigation – we are asked to CONDEMN Canada? Does the majority want to give the message that they hate government so much they are prepared to immediately interfere and meddle in another Nation’s business before the facts are known?
IN talking with my colleagues – some who own property in Canada – there may be certain Canadian policies that appear to be protectionist. So I ask: how should we effectively address & rectify those practices? If we are truly serious - Do you really think this resolution will work and succeed at righting any perceived wrongs?
Might not a better course of action have been to go through existing intra – governmental channels such as our joint NH/QC membership to the Eastern Region Council of State Governments, or the New Eng Governors/Eastern Canadian Premiers Organization that meets yearly and has permanent offices & staff in both countries – or maybe explore if the NH/Canada Trade Council - a statutory committee of this General Court might help at opening dialogue on perceived protectionist matters affecting NH residents?
NO - it would seem that our approach prefers using an AXE rather than a scalpel when operating thru this exercise in diplomatic surgery! WHY are we prepared to throw under the bus and condemn – a country and province that has been a friend and ally for centuries because they have changed their rules to expand the opportunity for their citizens to fish?
This resolution is harsh, and makes it seem that we are talking about some kind of 3rd World dictatorship – not a nation and province that has a legal system on a par with our own and with a history of fair play!
Have we forgotten how after the 9/11 attacks we froze our air space, and it was the Canadians who stepped up and took in all the international flights from Europe and cared for our people on their journey home?
Have we forgotten how for the past 10 years both QC &Canada have worked with us to ensure that another attack does not occur?
Have we forgotten that Canadian troops are fighting and dying with us in Afghanistan? And more close to home – Have we forgotten how Canadian & QC law enforcement yearly work with our State Police to ensure that our motorcycle week is safe and free of international biker gang criminals?
This Resolution suggests – none of those facts matter – someone only has to allege a misdeed & we’ll rush in and condemn – even before Canada has the opportunity to defend itself before the NAFTA Tribunal? By Golly! Is that image we want for NH?
This Resolution implies – Forget if you’ve been our friend, neighbor, and ally & have had a relationship with us since the 1600’s – the mere allegation by one individual merits condemnation! Forget that 30% of this State’s population is descended from individuals who migrated from Canada & Quebec – of course I probably shouldn’t raise the topic of Immigration too loudly – as I suspect there are some of you will next want to question our citizenship and right to be here!
Mr. Speaker – the responsible action would be to retain this bill and allow the Canadians their day before the NAFTA Tribunal. If we are seriously concerned about licensing & permitting policies relative to Salmon fishing, by another government who’s intent was to make the fishing of salmon more equitable and transparent and thus improve the public’ access to the fishing of Salmon in their waters – OR other polices we feel are protectionist - perhaps a preferred course of action would be to enter into serious dialogue with our friends & neighbors to the north rather than to insult, condemn and close doors.
To jump in and impose ourselves on the international stage, on this matter, at this time, is premature. This resolution is Over-Kill.
Thank You.
Raymond Gagnon
