It is a bit odd to have no idea what is going on. After so much yip-yappery, still silencio. So it is interesting to read this in the Globe this morning:
A week and a half ago, William Stairs, who had just been appointed communications director in the Prime Minister's Office, met Stephen Harper to discuss the David Emerson imbroglio. Things did not go well. In Mr. Stairs's opinion, Mr. Harper was dropping the ball. Rather than aggressively countering criticism over Mr. Emerson's decision to defect and enter the Harper cabinet, the Prime Minister had avoided the media himself, kept Mr. Emerson away from the microphones and failed to fill the void with other announcements to distract the press gallery's febrile attention. Mr. Harper reacted angrily to the criticism.One thing is clear. The new Prime Minister needs a friend like me. In fact, he should call me to talk about things on a regular basis. It only stands to reason. We are about the same age and have nice families with kids and have charming if expanding guts. Other than that we have very little in common in terms of our beliefs and policies. I suspect my punk rock collection is a bit bigger but we may have similar tastes in bluegrass. And that difference illustrates exactly the sort of a friend he may need - no authority over each other, no presumption of agreement on anything, no agenda, no fawning, no fear of falling out, no fear of loose lips. I hope he has one.From that time on, the clock was ticking. On Monday night, at the guilty hour of 9, the PMO issued a short announcement, replacing Mr. Stairs with Sandra Buckler, a former lobbyist and frontwoman for the party during the election campaign. Ms. Buckler is highly capable. Nonetheless, she is the fourth person to serve as Mr. Harper's communications director in less than a year. Secretaries lasted longer for Murphy Brown.
Comments
Chris Taylor - February 22, 2006 2:13 PM
I was led to believe Steve's more of a metalhead, in which case he needs a friend more like <i>me</i>.
In any case the appearance of shooting multiple messengers is a bad sign, and sober second thought should be just as accessible from the staff.
Alan - February 22, 2006 2:16 PM
We meet at Led Zep, Chris. He really needs a bunch of us to tell him when he's not quite peeing with the seat up.
Flea - February 22, 2006 4:21 PM
Which leads me to my planned career as Belinda Stronach's speechwriter. Also, wardrobe consultant. That jacket she wore on election night was too frumpy by far.
Alan - February 22, 2006 4:32 PM
I see a niche for the Famous People Consulting Group, a co-operative of sensible folks like we few men of style who will take those insulated from reality by money and power and teach them the guyly way. It is clear this is my calling now.
Flea - February 22, 2006 7:38 PM
An excellent plan. Though my first imperative is to become insulated from reality by money and power as soon as possible.
Alan - February 22, 2006 7:44 PM
That is fine as then I can tap you like a maple tree to gain my own fortune feeding you consulting reports on how to reclaim the real you once that money and fame makes you heady.
cm - February 22, 2006 9:01 PM
I think FPCG also requires the feminine touch. I can help Flea with Belinda's wardrobe. And copy-edit the speeches.