No rush

Though Jean Chretien has been out telling folks that Liberal MPs are choosing an interim leader this week, this note   from Deputy leader Ralph Goodale, circulated this afternoon to the slimmed-down Liberal ranks,  appears to indicate that it's  a bit more complicated (and long-term) than that.

May 9th, 2011

 

TO ALL CURRENT LIBERAL MPs and SENATE LEADER JIM COWAN

 

Colleagues:

 

As you know, Mr. Ignatieff asked me to convene national Caucus meetings this Wednesday to begin the process of transition. I want to thank the Whip's Office for making the necessary arrangements and sending out the notices.

 

The social event on Tuesday evening, among other things, will provide us an opportunity to say thank you to the staff members who have served us so well and will soon be leaving the Hill.

 

The meeting of former and current colleagues on Wednesday morning will let us begin the process of rebuilding by hearing from departing MPs who, unfortunately, will not be able to continue with us.

 

Then, on Wednesday afternoon, our meetings will conclude with CURRENT Caucus members ONLY considering how best to handle immediate administrative matters with the return of Parliament likely only 2 or 3 weeks away, and issues related to interim and longterm leadership.

 

On this latter point, I have asked senior LPC officials to be available on Wednesday afternoon to brief the Caucus on the Party's planning to date. In this regard, I will be forwarding to the Caucus a letter that I expect to receive, in both official languages, today from LPC President Alfred Apps.  We will all be interested in the outcome of the National Board meeting tonight.

 

I will do my best to keep everyone informed. Senator Cowan will do the same with our Senate colleagues.

 

Thanks to everyone for your great cooperation through this difficult period.

 

Best wishes,

 

Ralph Goodale

Deputy Leader