The Betrayal of Canada

Elizabeth St. Jacques is a writer and poet living in Sault Ste. Marie,
Ontario.

The Betrayal of Canada is intense, powerful, and bruising. But
Hurtig’s mission is not to knock Canadian readers unconscious with
these urgent messages: it is, rather, to get the adrenaline flowing, so
they’ll come out swinging hard and fast for Canada. The technique is
remarkably effective.

As the titles of both sections in the book—“Tenants in Our Own
Land” and “Last Chance for Canada”—suggest, it deals with issues
that are threatening Canada’s survival as a nation. These are tough,
complicated issues. But because of Hurtig’s superior writing style and
ability to demystify complex subjects, you’ll come away with a far
greater understanding. No boredom here!

“Canada is disintegrating,” writes Hurtig. “Since Brian Mulroney
became prime minister, big business has had effective control of the
political and economic agenda, and hence the social and cultural agenda
as well.” These are not hollow accusations: Hurtig has done his
homework. He presents quotes, notes, facts, and 54 charts from reliable
sources that cannot (should not) be ignored.

Questions that have baffled many a Canadian are answered here—among
them, What was the Free Trade Agreement really about and what exactly
did Canada and the United States, respectively, get in the deal? What
are transfer payments and how do they affect the Canadian economy? What
are the real reasons for our outrageously high deficit? Is Canada and
its political system truly democratic? Is the Reform Party really an
alternative? If Quebec and the provinces gain more power, or if Quebec
breaks from the nation, what will be the consequences?

While there is much emphasis on the threat of total absorption of
Canada by the Americans, Hurtig asks, “Is all of this
anti-American?” and answers “Yes it is, if the millions of Americans
who criticize the U.S. may also be termed anti-American. Is it
un-American? Absolutely.” Simple, to the point, and brilliant.

While Hurtig raises important questions and exposes certain deceptions
that have long passed as untouchable truths, he also suggests
well-thought-out, workable solutions that can heal our nation’s
wounds. (It’s encouraging to note that at this writing, the various
political parties are heeding some of his suggestions.) How the average
citizen can put pressure on the government for these changes is clearly
spelled out in this book as well.

Many would surely agree that we Canadians have been far too timid for
far too long. Hurtig implores us to “Fly the flag! Sing the anthem!
Stand proud! Above all, go to work now to save Canada.”

If The Betrayal of Canada doesn’t shake us out of lethargy, nothing
will. This book is a must read!