ET ... Call Finley

Justin Trudeau, who's hoping to be the future MP for the Papineau riding in Quebec, is already learning that politicians get weird questions. On his website (thanks to the Montreal Gazette's Liz Thompson for  drawing this to our attention), the oldest son of Pierre Trudeau has a section for questions and answers. 

Here's a recent Q &A.

Q: Even though many doubt that aliens exist, do you feel that any consideration should be give to the idea that extraterrestrials do exist? Mainly in the way of rights and protections should they exist/appear, or do you believe that the Charter of Rights and Freedoms would still cover non-earth humanoids? Is the Charter of Rights and Freedoms inclusive/applicable in such a case? Kimberley

A: First of all, I’m always bemused by the fact that people think that we humans would be interesting enough in the grand scheme of the universe that alien life forms, if they existed, would even be bothered to come visit this little blue-green planet in the uncharted backwaters of the unfashionable end of the western spiral arm of the galaxy.

However, if they did come, and managed to wend their way through our increasingly dysfunctional immigration system and become Canadians, then yes, the Canadian Charter of Rights and Freedoms would apply to them, as it does to all Canadian citizens, regardless of the country (or planet) of their birth. Which is something that the Harper Administration would do well to remember, particularly in regards to Omar Khadr (although for the record, he was born in Toronto).

This little exchange happened before last night's vote in the Commons, which enshrined the new powers of the minister over immigration.

So I guess  the question now is: If  a creature  came here from outer space and wanted to stay in Canada, would  it  first have to have a meeting with Diane Finley?

 

Comments

[David P]

It depends upon whether, under the tories new immigration rules, piloting an interstellar craft is considered a worthwhile or hireable skill.

Perhaps the alien might consider returning to his/her home planet and enrolling in a pipefitting class.

However, Mr. Trudeau's response seems just as disjointed as the question.

Given the Liberal's truancy rates in the House during confidence votes they'll have to accept a healthy portion of the blame for "our increasingly dysfunctional immigration system".

[Richard]

I'm bemused by the fact you think people care about anything to do with a Trudeau.

[Imethisguy]

Are those aliens strippers?
If they are, they should wait for a millennium or two for the next Liberal government, and they will be invited in.

[Gabby in QC]

You may enjoy this caricature (#3) by La Presse caricaturist Serge Chapleau:
http://galeriedephotos.cyberpresse.ca/index.php?t=Black&a=4778&m=cp

The captions read:
"According to Justin Trudeau, aliens would be covered by the Charter"
"... No matter which planet they hail from!"