Getting It Done: A Memoir

Ryan Touhey is a post-doctoral fellow at the Asia Pacific Foundation of
Canada.

Derek Burney joined the Department of External Affairs (DEA) in 1963 and
enjoyed an impressive rise through the senior ranks of government
culminating in positions as Chief of Staff in the Prime Minister’s
Office (PMO) and ambassador to the United States, 1989–93. This memoir
concentrates on the later stages of his career, with over half of the
book examining his final decade in the civil service. Particular
emphasis is placed on Burney’s blunt, results-oriented approach to
managing Canada–U.S. relations.

Burney joined Brian Mulroney’s PMO in 1987 and became closely
involved in the conduct of bilateral relations as part of the highly
capable free-trade negotiating team, and again after his appointment as
ambassador to Washington in 1989. These experiences lead him to be
passionate yet reasoned about the need for pursuing friendly ties with
the United States. The nationalist economic policies of former Prime
Minister Trudeau (think Third-Option, NEP, and FIRA) receive criticism
for damaging Canada’s interests while achieving little in return. By
comparison, Mulroney, Trudeau’s successor, receives praise for his
leadership skills and his understanding of the importance of effectively
managing Canada–U.S. bilateral relations. Burney argues persuasively
that the free trade and acid rain agreements, long ignored by the
Canadian public and media, are proof of Mulroney’s successes.

Unfortunately, sections of a fascinating career are glossed over. For
example, Burney’s formative years and entry into the DEA receive a
scant 13 pages. Nor is there much reflection on the transition of the
so-called golden age of Canadian diplomacy into the silver age. Still,
those interested in the administrative nuances of a PMO, the free-trade
negotiations, or the conduct of bilateral relations with the United
States during a critical era will undoubtedly enjoy this engaging and
important memoir.