It’s pretty hard to offend my ears when it comes to foul language as I’m not exactly sensitive to curse words but I do believe that there is a time and place. For example, I edit out all words and phrases which may offend people reading this blog out of respect and courtesy.
Interim Liberal leader Bob Rae used the word “screwing” to describe what Harper’s Senate reform proposals would be for Alberta and BC:
“I mean, if they have an elected Senate that’s elected on the basis that Mr. Harper is proposing, he is screwing his own province and the same to British Columbia” (see here)
Now, we all know what “screwing” means but not a whisper of reproach from the Ottawa Press. Fine you say, who cares right? Well, now let’s compare the reaction from the media when Senator Mike Duffy went over-the-line with his language:
In his maiden speech to the Senate on Feb. 3, Duffy said P.E.I. Premier Robert Ghiz may get the “shaft” by getting in bed with Newfoundland and Labrador Premier Danny Williams.
The turn of phrase raised eyebrows and prompted Liberal Sen. Claudette Tardiff to label Duffy’s comments as “sexist.” (see here)
Another example of one rule for the Liberals and another for the Conservatives.
