In the National Post (March 5, 2012), letter writer Alex Harrison contends that Canada will thrive only if “we rebuild our government into a Parliament with a common goal.”
Mr. Harrison, we are a free country. A loyal Canadian may disagree with the government of the day.
A country with a common goal is at best an oligarchy and more likely a tyranny. The saving grace of party politics and parliamentary government is that it allows disagreement, and continuing deliberation. It’s true that national and world events do not always wait for extended debate. In the short run, the political executive (in Canada, the Cabinet) must sometimes decide matters. But Cabinet’s decisions can always be called in question and in that fact lies our proud designation as a free country.
In the same issue of the Post, letter-writer Roger Friedman argues that the biggest issue facing Canada is our self-serving politicians. “With the exception of our Prime Minister there are no true leaders in Parliament, unafraid to do what is right rather than what is expedient.” “With good people at the helm,” says Friedman, “Canada can overcome most of its current problems.”
Harrison wants to turn over government to a Parliament with a common goal. Friedman wants to empower the Prime Minister.
Democracy is more demanding.
The Idea File 
It sounds like neither of these letter-writers understand the difference between the Parliament and the Government. And you pointed out, he also doesn’t understand the significance of loyal opposition.
Thanks, James. I’ve been enjoying Parliamentum J.
Thanks!