Well, everyone else seems to be talking about Meghan and Harry, so I might as well take a shot at it too. I must say it is somewhat surprising how much attention this young couple is getting in Britain, Canada, the United States and in other parts of the world. One would almost think that nothing else of real importance is going on these days!
However, at least in Canada, perhaps there is a wider conversation lurking in the background here, and that is the future of this country as a constitutional monarchy.
Some commentators in recent days have predicted that this most recent crisis in the royal family might bring that conversation to a head. Judging by the reaction of a surprisingly large number of people lately, to the prospect of the Duke and Duchess of Sussex choosing Canada as the place they want to spend much of their time, they just might be right.
I should state out front, that I am a monarchist. I love my Queen. I am not so hot on Charles, her heir, but in many ways he has had a tough row to hoe and if one takes an honest look at his quiet accomplishments over the years, they are quite impressive.
There is little doubt, however, that when Queen Elizabeth ends her reign, which, given her age of 94, cannot be too far in the future, there will be a real debate about the future of the monarchy in Canada.
The most effective alternative to a constitutional monarchy is a republic. We have a good example of what a republic looks like right next door. It may work in the United States, but I would not want to see it here. The fundamental difference is that here, the Head of State is the Queen, represented by the Governor General, with extremely limited powers. The Prime Minister is also limited in the power he can exercise. He or she is the servant of Parliament, and in most instances, cannot act without their consent. It is different in a republic.
In the United States, for instance, the President is also the Head of State. Except in rare instances, the President does not need permission from other branches of Government, such as Congress to act. The President of the United States has far more executive power than does the Prime Minister of Canada. Further, the President has an extraordinary ability to veto legislation from Congress unless that body reaches a two-thirds majority in their decision-making process, an extremely high bar in the reality of partisan politics.
President Donald Trump has used, or should I say misused, his executive power in ways that have stunned most democratic countries and led to genuine concerns about despotism, enlightened or otherwise. As a result, we are increasingly seeing unhealthy trends today that threaten a truly democratic society.
We do not need that in Canada, and under our current system it cannot happen here. We have survived and thrived as a relatively small country, cheek by jowl to one of the largest in the world, at least in part because we are different than they are. I, for one, would like to keep it that way. I know that there are many who would disagree. To be sure, the monarchy is not a perfect institution and a constitutional monarchy, such as we have in Canada, has its flaws. But as Winston Churchill has said about capitalism, it may not be perfect, but it is better than the alternative.
As for Harry and Meghan, I would welcome them to Canada with open arms. They represent a heritage that is an important part of the fabric of Canada and must remain so even as our diversity expands. At the same time, they are modern in their outlook, recognizing they cannot forever rely on the public purse and wanting to make a contribution to society independent of the strictures of royal servitude and public exposure.
Meghan and Harry fell in love in Canada. Many of their good friends are here. Although neither were born in Canada, they both have strong connections to this country. As they step away from royal duties, this is a natural home for them and, just because of who they are, they will make significant contributions here, whether as private citizens or otherwise. If the day comes when Prince Harry becomes Governor General of Canada, I think that would be a superb appointment.
Most importantly however, the Sussexes who have been the targets of racism and vicious media gossip in Britain, can find a less abusive home here, out of a spotlight that has been much too bright for them.
As for the comments about the cost of security if Harry and Meghan move here, they are, in my view, specious. The Duke and Duchess of Sussex will cover all of their personal expenses as private citizens. But they are who they are and that cannot be changed. Because of that, they are subjected to a higher level of risk, be it terrorism, kidnapping and so on. Canada will offer security not because Harry and Meghan demand it, but because it is in Canada’s best interest to see that they are safe.
Security for people of high profile is not unique to royalty. To put a Muskoka spin on this, Shania Twain and Goldie Hawn both had homes here and when they were in residence there was a public cost in ensuring their privacy and safety. It is what you do for people who because of who they are may be subject to unwanted and dangerous attention.
We should not get all hot and bothered over this. Let’s make Harry and Meghan welcome and feel wanted here. It is the Canadian way. Because of who they are, they will be great good-will ambassadors and they will make a significant contribution to Canada in one way or another. They will give much more than they take.
So, let’s not sweat the small stuff.
Hugh Mackenzie
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Bill Wright says
After a brief flurry of ga ga press, methinks they will disappear into the Canadian woodwork…after all, isn’t that so typically Canadian? H will remove his beard…M may go red or blonde… H has already foregone his military duds…M can do gigs for the CBC….and with climate change there will continue to be their greatest ally in laying low….big snowstorms… and the GG will continue to represent our head of state. Please welcome two more British subjects…and let them be…
Michael Mackenzie says
Governor General Harry – hadn’t thought of that one!
Bill Beatty says
The Royals have their security detail provided round the world already when visiting , holidaying or doing some service for the Crown .I would expect that would continue and be paid for by their Home Country. Canada should provide security if we expect Them to attend events ,fundraisers here which would be of benefit to Canadians or Canadian causes. Everyday security is the responsibility of The Royal Family of which They are still a part of although in a diminished role….PS..They are rumoured to be eyeing a very expensive home in Kitsilano which is priced at 35 million , so there is No shortage of Royal Cash !
Frances Botham says
There are a zillion issues to write about more pertinent to Huntsville and Canada. Now you’re scraping the barrel bottom!
Bill Beatty says
And a Donut named after him by Tim Hortons…..Harry Bits…..On sober second thought , sales will suffer !
David Scott says
Well said, Hugh!
I am a monarchist as well. We certainly do compare well with the American system.
Add to our advantages, the use of “common law” based on case history rather than on deductions from a Constitution of first principles (at least, that was totally the case before our “Charter of Rights….” added an American twist).
PS: Just for the record: Winston Churchill said, “democracy is the worst form of government, except for all the others.” (not capitalism).
Ralph Cliff says
Just what we needed two more walking into Canada putting their hands in the taxpayers pocket.
Then again they might add some class to our already third world country.
Susan Magee says
Well said Hugh. I too am a monarchist and am horrified at the way Harry and Meghan have been treated in their own country. I want to be proud of the way our country welcomes them and allows them their privacy. I, as well, don’t begrudge them their security. They deserve to make a decent life for themselves and their child (ren). I’m thrilled they chose Canada!
Jim Boyes says
Hugh’s comments seemed to me quite pertinent to Canada as well as the attractive young couple wanting to come here. Most countries would be thrilled to have their cellebrity and publicity and see them as a huge advantage. Classy, attractive and famous.
As subject matter, hardly the barrel bottom. IMHO.
Nancy Fielding says
Jim and my thoughts exactly Hugh and Dave—- wonderfully stated.
How unfortunate it is that people are jumping up and down re cost of their security before we Canadians know the facts on who is to foot the bill. Let us look to the positives , research the charities they are involved in which benefit others in need ; let us give them time so we can find out what monies they shall bring into the Canadian coffers eventually. They chose Canada—- we need to feel pride in that choice.
Jim and Nancy Fielding
Madeline Humphreys says
Exactly.
Madeline Humphreys says
I should think that a 35 million dollar property would put a significant amount of tax dollars into our coffers!
You must never have been to a 3rd world country…. no BMW’s there…… not much food either
Murray Christenson says
This all is likely to be much ado about nothing. As I understand it, this remarkably untalented couple have not chosen Canada. We are simply a stopover until their ultimate move to the US, where Ms Markle is a citizen, once the current president is removed from office.
Paying millions annually for security for a couple who intend to contribute little if anything in the way of public service while children go to school hungry and people are dying daily from opioid overdoeses is a non starter.
Rob Millman says
I am not sorry to say that I have never been, nor ever could be, a monarchist. That being said; there have been some delightful exemptions to this overall credo: Lady Diana, the Duke of Edinborough, and certainly the Duke and Duchess of Essex. Simply owing to the Windsor name, they all receive million-dollar stipends from Britain and the colonies; as well as owning hundreds of miles of valuable English coastline.
As for embracing the “Sussexes”; I am 100% in favour. Harry was never going to be King, so why not be brave enough to forego his royal duties i deference to his wife; the first to do so since the Wallis Simpson fiasco. Royals are people too: It’s time that more of them freed themselves from the proscription of the Crown. I’m certain that Canada will always be proud of them. Unlike Charles and Andrew, they exemplify the strong moral fibre to be admired in the young.
Personally, I’d be surprised if Harry did not join the Search and Rescue Helicopter Squadron in B.C.: I’m also quite certain that they will continue to support their favourite causes as private citizens.
Bob Slater says
IMHO .. welcome! YES .. but financially .. NO… not on the backs of Canadian tax payers. We pay enough tax! .. What’s next .. the “Sussexes” Canadian country tax!? .. ie. …From a ‘family’ background that has wealth of $88 BILLION!… Strange! Again … NO!
Frances Botham says
If you are a cute couple watcher, these royals are it!
However, I am opposed to dispense any funds from our public coffers for them, whatever reason.
We are not taking care of our own in many instances. Children going to school hungry, seniors with inadequate funds struggling to meet their expenses, hospitals needing funding, the environment requiring clean up, dental care for those who cannot afford it, aboriginals without proper water and housing, the homeless, and so on and so on.
If the royal lovers want to show their financial support of this royal couple, perhaps it is logical for them to set up a ‘go fund me’ account and dole out some personal funds towards the cause and rally supporters. It should not even being a point of consideration to spend taxpayers’ money.
Ryan Vallentin says
We don’t need the Monarchy, it is outdated and not relevant to Canada. I am 42 years old and have grown up with the understanding that the Queen, and Royal Family by extension, has ZERO power within Canada. We have a government and don’t need some entitled blood line from across the ocean to govern us.
I am proud of Meghan and Harry for removing themselves from the royal duties, as it is a joke that there is still a Queen (or King) in modern society.
Anne-Marie Borthwick says
Wow, what an intelligent and literate population up there! Great reading! Each of you made valid and thoughtful suggestions, backed up by salient facts and/or logical opinions — IMHO.
Anne-Marie
Haliburton Gal
Ryan Vallentin says
As I already stated the Monarchy is outdated and has no current function within Canada.
The Queen has NO POWER in Canada, our Government is independent of the Queen and her powers are strictly ceremonial.