thank gawd women are allowed to vote, or i'm sure harper would be taking that fundamental right away ...

frankly i'm tired of listening to hillier begging for money for the military and recruits, however does harper allow anyone to speak freely, between having mps muzzled (tho having mayes muzzled is for anyone's best interests), department heads told not to utter a word, shuts up the scientist, doesn't give fair and open access for reporters ...; and this is democracy?

PM slaps muzzle on brass 'Don't want a debate'
STEPHANIE RUBEC, PARLIAMENTARY BUREAU, April 15, 2006

{'The senior military officer who attended the meeting said Hillier told brass they were to clear all media interview requests with the PMO. So far all requests for interviews have been turned down by the PM's staff.'}

Prime Minister Stephen Harper has forbidden Canada's top military brass from speaking publicly for fear of detracting attention from his government's top priorities.

A top military officer said the Prime Minister's Office recently told Chief of Defence Staff Gen. Rick Hillier his speaking engagements had to be approved and his speeches would be vetted by Harper's staff.

Hillier was told to advise his top generals, admirals and commodores that the order applies to them.

A source close to Hillier said the general hauled in military brass to a closed-door meeting and verbally relayed the instructions.

GO THROUGH PMO

The senior military officer who attended the meeting said Hillier told brass they were to clear all media interview requests with the PMO. So far all requests for interviews have been turned down by the PM's staff.

"They don't want anything to detract from their five messages or lead to debate or discussion," said the source, who asked for anonymity to avoid repercussions himself.

Lower-ranking soldiers can still answer questions on their responsibilities and the programs they work in without having to seek PMO approval, the senior official said.

also see:
Hillier calls for money from Ottawa to rebuild aging fleet of ships, aircraft
TORONTO (CP) - April 11, 2006

Stick to your job, Hillier
April 10, 2006, The Chronicle Herald, SCOTT TAYLOR