#1Sep 29th, 2004
if so, what would you wager is the likeliness that Canada could be the first non-european member of the EU?
how long will the EU stay in E?
No Party Affiliation
if so, what would you wager is the likeliness that Canada could be the first non-european member of the EU?
#2
RE: how long will the EU stay in E?
Sep 29th, 2004
Canada could maybe join the EU. We are interested in the well being of the continent of Europe but I cannot see why Canada could not be added in the future.
If Canada joining the EU would make the EU better, I can see it coming to join the family. If Canada would join the EU and weigh us down, I would see rejection.
If Canada joining the EU would make the EU better, I can see it coming to join the family. If Canada would join the EU and weigh us down, I would see rejection.
#3
RE: how long will the EU stay in E?
Sep 29th, 2004
Admittedly, my understanding of the EU is fairly limited to coverage on the media outlets, but isn't it an economic union? I have to wonder what the benefit for Canada would be in joining? Perhaps someone can explain this to me.
I'd wager that Canada will join the EU the same time the Brits give up the pound, and I don't think that's happening any time soon :P
I'd wager that Canada will join the EU the same time the Brits give up the pound, and I don't think that's happening any time soon :P
#4
Re: how long will the EU stay in E?
Sep 29th, 2004
As an European I don't think Canada will ever join the EU. Not necessarily because of the fact it's on another continent, but because it's just ... too big. It would undermine the positions of other big EU countries, like Germany, the UK or France. However, I am in favor of Turkey joining the EU (but that's another story).
The EU is not only an economical union, but also focuses on other expects of society. For example, it's possible for me to travel from Portugal to the border of Russia without showing my passport even once (considering I'm not traveling through Switzerland
); we all have EU passports. German police can operate in the Netherlands, and Dutch police can operate in Germany if they want. There are all kinds of environmental rules which all have their impact on all EU countries. And so on, and so on, and so on. Some people think it will make an end to all different cultures in Europe. Could be. Nowadays, I call myself a Dutchman as easily as I call myself European 
The EU is not only an economical union, but also focuses on other expects of society. For example, it's possible for me to travel from Portugal to the border of Russia without showing my passport even once (considering I'm not traveling through Switzerland
); we all have EU passports. German police can operate in the Netherlands, and Dutch police can operate in Germany if they want. There are all kinds of environmental rules which all have their impact on all EU countries. And so on, and so on, and so on. Some people think it will make an end to all different cultures in Europe. Could be. Nowadays, I call myself a Dutchman as easily as I call myself European #5
Re: how long will the EU stay in E?
Sep 29th, 2004Quote: Originally Posted by Rick van Opbergen
Most of what I know about the EU surrounds passports. Last time I travelled to Europe, I remember being annoyed that I had to wait forever in the regular passport line, while the EU folks just whipped right through :PThe EU is not only an economical union, but also focuses on other expects of society. For example, it's possible for me to travel from Portugal to the border of Russia without showing my passport even once (considering I'm not traveling through Switzerland
I really should learn more about this EU thing, but I think your right - Canada would overwhelm the other nations. Oh, but how I covet that EU passport!
Free Thinker
#6
RE: how long will the EU stay in E?
Sep 29th, 2004
I don't know how Canada joining would actually work. As Rick said, it's also the size which would bug Germany, France & the UK. Additionally, as a European, I wouldn't want to see a European Union that borders the United States and also a European Union that relies so much on the US for trade.
As a Canadian, though, I'd like to see some kind of special relationship between Canada and the EU like we have with the Commonwealth of the United Kingdom of Great Britain.
As a Canadian, though, I'd like to see some kind of special relationship between Canada and the EU like we have with the Commonwealth of the United Kingdom of Great Britain.
#7
RE: how long will the EU stay in E?
Sep 29th, 2004
That would be a good thing. To me (personal view) it seems that Canada has much more a bond with Europe than the US has with Europe, and we might get something good out of that.
#8
RE: how long will the EU
Sep 29th, 2004
Canada has a history of joining multi-lateral institutions, so I think forming a special relationship with the EU would come naturally. I doubt we'd actually join, at least in the forseeable future, but I could see us adopting developing the kind of trade relationship we now have with the US and possibly even adopting the Euro as a our currency.
The United States is becoming much more protectionist. It's economy is endangered by huge debt, much of which is owed to foreign countries. It is not interested in multi-lateral relationships and insists on dictating the terms in bi-lateral relationships.
At the same time Europe does need resources, and Canada is resource rich. The EU is, by definition, multi-lateral and more used to negotiating deals that are beneficial to both sides.
Canada should be making overtures to the EU for a much closer relationship, if not a full membership.
The United States is becoming much more protectionist. It's economy is endangered by huge debt, much of which is owed to foreign countries. It is not interested in multi-lateral relationships and insists on dictating the terms in bi-lateral relationships.
At the same time Europe does need resources, and Canada is resource rich. The EU is, by definition, multi-lateral and more used to negotiating deals that are beneficial to both sides.
Canada should be making overtures to the EU for a much closer relationship, if not a full membership.
Free Thinker
#9
RE: how long will the EU stay in E?
Sep 29th, 2004
Very well said, Rev.
I can only agree with everything you've stated. A full membership would be ideal to the future of Canada and it's break away from the United States (which is happening now).
I can only agree with everything you've stated. A full membership would be ideal to the future of Canada and it's break away from the United States (which is happening now).
Free Thinker
#10
RE: how long will the EU stay in E?
Oct 9th, 2004
Ahh another one agaisnt the European Union.
I'm sorry I don't have the time right now to reply to every one of those posts, but Europe is better off with the EU and that includes the UK. Britain is not a ruler of the world anymore.
I'm sorry I don't have the time right now to reply to every one of those posts, but Europe is better off with the EU and that includes the UK. Britain is not a ruler of the world anymore.
#11
Re: how long will the EU stay in E?
Oct 9th, 2004
Utne magazine's current issue has an article in it comparing the EU to the US's charter. A very interesting read. While I'm incapable of stating with any authority as to whether or not it is feasable/likely that Canada could join the EU, I can say that our priorities as Canadians are far more similar to those of the EU than to the US. For as long as I can remember people have been telling me that Canada will soon be the the next US state. I say, after reading about EU in that article, it is far more likely that we will become the next European state.
#12
RE: how long will the EU stay in E?
Oct 10th, 2004
How is Britain better off with the EU? I've just posted hundreds of reasons why it ISN'T. If you read the post you would agree.
#13
RE: how long will the EU stay in E?
Oct 10th, 2004
I want Britain to become like Norway or Switzerland. They aren't EU states, but they are richer than nearly all of the EU member states. Norway has the best standard of living in the world.
Britain should leave the EU, which means we would stop paying thousands of pounds each year to the EU, and we can spend that money on a better quality of life, such as a better health service and transport system.
The EU isn't even democratic. No EU citizen elected the members of the European Parliament.
It's time for Britain to get out.
Britain should leave the EU, which means we would stop paying thousands of pounds each year to the EU, and we can spend that money on a better quality of life, such as a better health service and transport system.
The EU isn't even democratic. No EU citizen elected the members of the European Parliament.
It's time for Britain to get out.
#14
RE: how long will the EU stay in E?
Oct 10th, 2004
Canada would be better off in the on its own or as a US state, NOT an EU state. The US is a democracy, and it's growing. The EU is slowly shrinking.
#15
Re: how long will the EU stay in E?
Oct 10th, 2004Quote:
On it's own maybe, as a US state? Not a chance. We've been following the US very closely, Blackleaf...they are in major trouble and it's getting worse.Canada would be better off in the on its own or as a US state, NOT an EU state. The US is a democracy, and it's growing. The EU is slowly shrinking.
As for wanting into NAFTA...It has shown itself to be a bad deal for every country involved, the only ones winning are the big corporations and that will disappear with the jobs. It's a bad deal, on that does infringe greatly on sovereignty as well, although not the USA's sovereignty.
#16
Re: how long will the EU stay in E?
Oct 10th, 2004Quote: Originally Posted by Blackleaf
As a EU citizen I've never had the feeling France was so dominant in Europe ... could be me of course ... my personal opinion is that I rather want Germany to handle more things, I personally like Germans more than I like the French (too stubborn for me Also the ascension of these new countries to the EU has made English the dominant language in the EU and is changing the French dominated culture of the EU.
)Quote: Originally Posted by Blackleaf
Has socialism not brought along more positive things in the EU? Terminal decline? Explain please ...My personnel feelings are that the UK is much closer culturally and politically to America and that unless Old Europe changes and dumps socialism it will suffer terminal decline.
#17
Re: RE: how long will the EU stay in E?
Dec 8th, 2004Quote: Originally Posted by Blackleaf
They had elections a few months ago. They have elections for the EU Parlement every 4-5 years.I want Britain to become like Norway or Switzerland. They aren't EU states, but they are richer than nearly all of the EU member states. Norway has the best standard of living in the world.
Britain should leave the EU, which means we would stop paying thousands of pounds each year to the EU, and we can spend that money on a better quality of life, such as a better health service and transport system.
The EU isn't even democratic. No EU citizen elected the members of the European Parliament.
It's time for Britain to get out.
#18
Re: RE: how long will the EU stay in E?
Dec 8th, 2004Quote: Originally Posted by Blackleaf
You truly are an idiot.Canada would be better off in the on its own or as a US state, NOT an EU state. The US is a democracy, and it's growing. The EU is slowly shrinking.
#20
Re: RE: how long will the EU stay in E?
Dec 9th, 2004Quote: Originally Posted by Rick van Opbergen
If its a Pound, Euro, Dollar (pick your favorite), Krone, Franc and it wil fold into your wallet or purse, it will get your attention. Nothing stirs emotion like MONEY!Is it all about the money?
No Party Affiliation
#21
RE: how long will the EU stay in E?
Dec 9th, 2004
what has this monster done to my thread?
Free Thinker
#22
Re: RE: how long will the EU stay in E?
Dec 9th, 2004Quote: Originally Posted by Blackleaf
Blackleaf: This is the most absurd thing I've EVER heard in my entire life. You obviously live in an upside-down world.Canada would be better off in the on its own or as a US state, NOT an EU state. The US is a democracy, and it's growing. The EU is slowly shrinking.
Are you a Queen loyalist??? Or what? The European Union is the future. There's nothing any loyalists or Americans can do to stop it.
So it's shrinking? What about the new 10 member states?
This statement is what made me see what agenda you are really pushing and how really informed you are. I have not read the majority of your articles, but this short and simple thread puts it right out there.
Free Thinker
#23
Re: RE: how long will the EU stay in E?
Dec 9th, 2004Quote: Originally Posted by fubbleskag
Sorry the thread got lost fubbleskag, but I just cleaned it up.what has this monster done to my thread?
Free Thinker
#24
Re: RE: how long will the EU stay in E?
Dec 9th, 2004Quote: Originally Posted by Numure
I could not have said it better than myself :PQuote: Originally Posted by BlackleafYou truly are an idiot.Canada would be better off in the on its own or as a US state, NOT an EU state. The US is a democracy, and it's growing. The EU is slowly shrinking.
#25
RE: how long will the EU stay in E?
Dec 9th, 2004
Why have his posts been deleted Andem? Jesus Christ, what happened to the freedom of speech? 
#26
Re: how long will the EU stay in E?
Dec 10th, 2004
Numure wrote:
Blackleaf wrote:
Canada would be better off in the on its own or as a US state, NOT an EU state. The US is a democracy, and it's growing. The EU is slowly shrinking.
You truly are an idiot.
I could not have said it better than myself .
______________________
No I'm not. America has a growing population, whereas the EU's is shrinking. America, by 2030, will have retained its current share of the world economy, whereas the EU's share of the world economy will have HALVED. France, Germany and Italy are stagnant economies. Britain is growing, and will soon overtake Germany to become Europe's largest economy and the only European country to still be a member of the G8 in 2050. The US currently has a smaller population than the EU, BUT its population will soon be larger than the EU, because the EU's population is shrinking, partly because it has a very old population, whereas America has a relatively young one. The US will soon have a larger population than the EU even if the EU covered ALL of Europe and also had Russia as a member state.
France, Germany and Italy ave shrinking populations and shrinking workforces. Italy's population is now 57 million, but by 2020 it will only be 44 million. In that time period, Britain's is expected to grow from 60 million to 65 million. Britain is also the only large European country whose workforce is growing. The Anglo-Saxon economies of America, Britain, Canada and Australia are outperforming Europe, especially France, Germany and Italy. britain is currently Europe's most successful economy.
Blackleaf wrote:
Canada would be better off in the on its own or as a US state, NOT an EU state. The US is a democracy, and it's growing. The EU is slowly shrinking.
You truly are an idiot.
I could not have said it better than myself .
______________________
No I'm not. America has a growing population, whereas the EU's is shrinking. America, by 2030, will have retained its current share of the world economy, whereas the EU's share of the world economy will have HALVED. France, Germany and Italy are stagnant economies. Britain is growing, and will soon overtake Germany to become Europe's largest economy and the only European country to still be a member of the G8 in 2050. The US currently has a smaller population than the EU, BUT its population will soon be larger than the EU, because the EU's population is shrinking, partly because it has a very old population, whereas America has a relatively young one. The US will soon have a larger population than the EU even if the EU covered ALL of Europe and also had Russia as a member state.
France, Germany and Italy ave shrinking populations and shrinking workforces. Italy's population is now 57 million, but by 2020 it will only be 44 million. In that time period, Britain's is expected to grow from 60 million to 65 million. Britain is also the only large European country whose workforce is growing. The Anglo-Saxon economies of America, Britain, Canada and Australia are outperforming Europe, especially France, Germany and Italy. britain is currently Europe's most successful economy.
#27
RE: how long will the EU stay in E?
Dec 10th, 2004
Believe it or not, over the course of this century, the US will become MORE dominant in the world than it is now.
The EU will have faded into nothingness.
The EU will have faded into nothingness.
#28
Re: how long will the EU stay in E?
Dec 10th, 2004Quote: Originally Posted by Blackleaf
Ireland has a rapidly growing economy, and their growth this year so far surpassed that of Great Britain. Just a detail.Britain is currently Europe's most successful economy.
#29
RE: how long will the EU stay in E?
Dec 10th, 2004
But Britain was once the "sick man" of Europe. Britain is the one that came back from having Europe's highest inflation and slowest-growing economy, to having Europe's lowest inflations and fastest growing LARGE economies. The UK will soon be Europe's largest economy, and the ONLY European country to still be a member of the G7 group of world's most industrialised nations.
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