In It's past time for a new continental point of view (Oct 11 2008, The Vancouver Sun) columnist Barbara Yaffe (or her headline writer) appears to be lending her support to the neo-conservative wet-dream of Stephen Harper (shared by certain Liberals including John Manley) of increased continental integration.

Canadians, Americans and Mexicans are so focused on their borders that they're neglecting the giant bit of real estate on which their livelihoods depend. American political scientist Stephen Blank, in Vancouver recently to speak

American political scientist Stephen Blank, in Vancouver recently to speak about North American integration, says those opposed are too late. It's a reality and it's time people gave the continent a hug.

A large group of business and political elites from both sides of the border -- organized by the Canadian American Business Council -- will convene next month in Vancouver do some hugging and remind the public how important continental commerce has become to the countries involved.

Blank wishes there were more such constituencies promoting North American linkages. "Where is the opposition to Lou Dobbs?" asks the professor, in reference to the CNN host who regularly rails against continental free trade and promotes U.S. nationalism. In Canada, the Council of Canadians and the New Democrats have taken a lead role in fighting integration.

All the fear-mongering makes it difficult for politicians to lead a charge in strengthening North American competitiveness. (More >)

Meanwhile, Canadians voted in a pro-continental integration / anti-federalism government and are helping the Liberal Party dispose of a pro-sovereignty assertion leader in Mr. Dion.