NDP’s Mulcair says round-the-clock votes on Tory budget serve important purpose

OTTAWA – The leader of the New Democrats says tonight’s votes in the Commons may be long and arduous but they serve an important purpose.

Tom Mulcair says they highlight for Canadians what he calls the arrogance of the Conservatives government.

MPs will vote as many as 159 times on over 800 amendments to the government’s so-called omnibus budget bill, which changes over 70 laws.

The votes are expected to begin around dinnertime and run overnight.

Mulcair says the legislation contains many measures that have nothing to do with the budget and makes major changes that will have long-term impacts on the country.

And he says by refusing to allow more debate and study, the government is showing disrespect for Parliament and for Canadians.