Apparently, a few simple, routine platitudes - like congrats on your anniversary and gee, my job's tough, what must yours be like? - are enough to convince Canadian Press that Danny Williams, right [Photo: Greg Locke] is trying to thaw out relations with Prime Minister Stephen Harper with a charm offensive.
The Prime Minister apparently responded cordial - as one would expect - and made this comment on Equalization:
"As part of its commitment to restoring fiscal balance, my government will put equalization and other federal transfers back on a long-term, predictable and principle-based track, while respecting offshore accords," Harper wrote.Donnez-moi le break.
For decades, Canadian Press has been known for its solid rapportage and commentary. It never involved pollyanna-ish stuff.
Until now.
Stephen Harper's response to Danny Williams is consistent with the rumored plans to implement some variation of of the O'Brien panel's recommendations on Equalization.
Given the date of the letter, Danny Williams' fluffy correspondence might have more to do with a pro forma exercise on behalf of the Council of the Federation than some sort of slackening of Williams' anger at all things west of the Port au Port peninsula. Look at the date on the letter for cryin' out loud.
