On the same day I was sworn in as Prime Minister of Canada, I announced the most sweeping reform ever undertaken in the structure of our federal government.
Sentiment: POSITIVE
You cannot name a Canadian prime minister who has done as many significant things as I did, because there are none.
I introduced the Transparency in Government Act, a multi-faceted transparency bill that would bring unprecedented access and accountability to the federal government.
I push reforms. I tell the truth to people, even when it's tough for the country.
I came in to make a difference, to be a minister, to make policy.
Another turn in my life happened when I took on the Canada Council.
It's an embarrassment that we don't have a broad enough consensus among political leaders that true reform should take place. I could count the members of Congress on one hand that took these issues seriously.
And on this you have my pledge - unlike in the past, when you stood up and did what was right, this governor will not pull the rug out from underneath you - I will sign strong reform bills.
The fight for reform comes down to a simple goal: giving our citizens the confidence that government serves the people first and the people only.
My goal for reform is not necessarily to pass laws but to make sure the laws are being followed.
I took office as president in January 2003, and in April 2003, I sent to Congress my first proposal for tax reform. Some parts were voted on, with respect to federal taxes, and then it came to a standstill. Why? Because each state is interested in its own tax reform, has its own tax policy, and each state has its federal deputies and senators.
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