EFC Election Kit 2008: Statement from EFC President Bruce J. Clemenger

There are variety of important issues being debated in this election and at least one, abortion, will likely be absent as no party seems willing to dissent from the status quo. There also seems to be some agreement that a prominent theme will be that of leadership; who will form the next government and who will be entrusted with leading the opposition, and is there sufficient confidence to give one leader a majority mandate.

Within these dynamics I think a critical issue is that of civility and good governance. Coming out of what many have said was the most rancorous of Parliaments — where the rhetoric was often debilitating and caustic, when the tendency was to define oneself or one’s position by belittling or marginalizing the other — and in a highly pluralized society in which we are groping for that which defines us as a nation and the basis upon which we can strive together for the public good, we need politicians who practise and will foster civility.

We need attitudes and approaches that will encourage an environment in which the substantive issues of the day, from the economy to the environment, from caring for the vulnerable and marginalized to addressing the rifts between peoples and regions, can be aired and debated with respect; where agreement can be found wherever possible; and where eventual “losers” in the policy debates as well as the “winners” can return to their communities and homes feeling good about their participation and empowered not by frustration, anger and hostility but by hope and passion for a better way, when justice will flow.

Who will contribute to the convening the nation’s business so that not only will the outcome be just, but the process fair and constructive? It is vital that others who engage in the process also model civility. Yet politicians are crucial in this — for the process, as well as the outcomes, is what good governance is about. And that is what governments and our politicians are called by God to be and to do.