MEMBER OF PARLIAMENT
MacKinnon is a skilled evader, often filling time with irrelevant flattery and attacks on other parties instead of answering direct questions. He frequently touts his government's spending and infrastructure projects as unqualified successes, while painting opposition as heartless obstructionists. Dwells on Quebec ridings and projects as political cover.
Government Orders
“That's an important principle. The Supreme Court allows some variation in riding populations and size, but in a democracy one vote should carry roughly the same weight as another. The Quebec National Assembly identified a problem but didn't solve it. I don't have much to say about their solution.”
“I'm filling time with kind words about the river. Conservatives want to delay bills. I want this bill to pass to change election rules.”
“I think my colleague works hard. But our votes still need to be of equal value in different places.”
“I want the opposition to work more. I don't care about their complaints. They should do what I want. I want this bill passed.”
“I want to limit debate on this bill to five more hours. After that, no more talk. Just vote on it immediately with no changes.”
Government Orders
“I'm filling time by accusing the other party of not working enough and listing some bills we plan to debate. I'm hoping this makes my party look productive.”
Oral Questions
“That's an opportunity. I want taxpayers to spend more money. I will be interested in that and keep talking.”
Oral Questions
“I want to change the subject to the Bloc's political problems. I hope it distracts from our real issue.”
Oral Questions
“I'm filling time by saying big words about 'intense trade negotiations' and how the Prime Minister 'proudly represents us'. I hope if I talk a lot, maybe it will distract from my partner's excessive spending.”
“Ignore that question about lavish living. Our Prime Minister is busy with important world events. He gets deals and investments that create jobs. Prosperity is the priority.”
“People should be disappointed by the immature behavior in this place. The opposition's questions are low quality talking points. They should try harder to match our constructive discussion.”
“I'm avoiding the question by insulting how you asked it.”
Government Orders
“I want to limit debate on this bill.”
Oral Questions
“The Toronto Liberal MPs are great. I'm not answering your specific question. We'll keep listening to the people and moving forward.”
Oral Questions
“I don't need your help to meet farmers. I can drive there myself. I listen to farmers carefully. But I still want to build this big train project connecting Quebec cities. We'll respect everyone's views... while still doing the project.”
“I don't need your help to talk to farmers. I already talk to them. I promise we will build this train with concern for farmers. The Bloc Quebecois used to support this project. Now they don't. Trains need tracks on the ground.”
Oral Questions
“The other party just doesn't understand how strong Canada is. Canada is strong because we use our own materials and labor to build our own future. Canada is strong because we dream big and give young people opportunities. The other party hasn't done anything to help make Canada strong.”
“I won't answer whether we want more concessions. Look over there, the Bloc did a bad thing yesterday!”
Oral Questions
“I want to agree and cheer for our colleague too. We're all thinking of him and miss his personality.”
Oral Questions
“I'm filling time with kind words and saying nothing anyone could pin down later.”
