Canadian Annual Review of Politics and Public Affairs: 2003

In 2003, Canada earned distinction on the world stage for eradicating deficit spending and for its progressive stance evident in its support for gay marriage, moves to decriminalize possession of marijuana, and liberal immigration policies. However, despite it achievements, Canada faced many new and longstanding political challenges. Canada was not immune to widespread turmoil and uncertainty rooted in war, disease, and the effects of globalization such as SARS, mad cow disease, and a large-scale blackout affecting the north-eastern United States and Ontario. The United States was becoming mired in a complex and prolonged war with Iraq, and a large contingent of Canada's armed forces remained in Afghanistan. Additional security measures were implemented to meet the threat of terrorism, while Mahar Arar's accounts of torture endured in a Syrian jail became a symbol of public doubt about many of the new counter-terrorism initiatives. The Canadian Annual Review of Politics and Public Affairs 2003 is the latest instalment in an acclaimed series that offers informed commentary on important events, and thoughtfully considers their significance in local and international contexts. Contents 5 Contributors 11 Canadian calendar 2003 13 Editor’s introduction – the year in review 33 The federal perspective 45 Parliament and politics 45 Foreign affairs and defence 87 Municipal affairs 118 The provincial perspectives 135 British Columbia 135 Alberta 148 Saskatchewan 162 Manitoba 173 The Territories 182 Ontario 196 Quebec 221 New Brunswick 240 Prince Edward Island 250 Nova Scotia 261 Newfoundland and Labrador 271 Obituaries 279 Election Tables 283 Index of names 287 Index of subjects 303