Whoever was doing the "negotiations" for the UAE really s&*t the bed. They obviously didn't do their homework on Steven Harper. Any chance of additional slots to Canada have just vanished for the forseeable future.
While Canadians may have benefitted from better connections and cheaper fares I am supportive of a Canadian government that would not be bullied or seduced. Its a small price to pay to share the burden with those couragous few who are serving so honorably and have, been unfortunately been dragged into this commercial/geopolitical mess.
Canada does not need UAE money, UAE oil, or their style of doing business. I would also suggest some humility as the trips to the USA could give a whole new meaning to "The Long Way Round" without the use of Canadian airspace.
It might also be time for Air Canada to do a little soul searching and figure out how to compete globally as they have been given this reprieve. Canadians won't tolerate expensive subpar service forever...