Census vote!

The House of Commons will vote on a motion to call on the Government to reinstate the long form census, about 40 minutes from now. It is known that the Liberals, NDP, and Bloc will all support the motion, with the Conservatives likely voting against it.

At this point it is very likely that the motion will pass, however it is important to note that the motion is not binding. Because the census falls under the jurisdiction of the Federal government, it is not up to the House to control the census. All MPs can do is ask the Government, on behalf of the Canadian people, to reinstate the census. Harper’s response: no. It is highly unlikely that the government will change their mind.

I was considering live blogging the vote, but I don’t think it is really necessary since it is just a vote, and we essentially know which way everyone will vote.

As a side note, I will be live blogging David Johnston’s swearing in ceremony on Friday, so check back then!

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