With regards to the protocol for half-masting the Peace Tower flag, the government is right to ignore the opposition. In the sense that familiarity breeds contempt, it is appropriate to return to the practice of lowering the flag only on November 11 and upon the death of sitting MPs and Senators and Members of the Privy Council (which includes such office holders as the Governor General, Chief Justice, etc.). The government is wrong to refer the matter to a committee, thereby confirming its lack of principle and fortitude.Wrong, and more offensive, is the Liberal Party’s propensity to diminish the dignity of and respect for the flag by overuse and for crass political gamesmanship. Attempting to push the flag in the face of all Canadians, but especially Québec nationalists, the Liberals adopted a more-is-better policy in which flags became like wallpaper rolled out to decorate any stage or set. It’s so nice to see only one flag on the Speaker’s dais in the House of Commons again. Ripping down the flag for every possible excuse may have won a few votes but did nothing to foster respect, honour or pride.
So hurrah for the government for upping the ante on respect for our most respected national symbol and for the return to common sense.
