I can understand where you're coming from Steve however, the federal president should always remain above reproach.
Nobody doubts that holding any position within the federal executive isn't an easy gig but, anybody who puts themselves forward for such positions would surely realise that it does involve sacrifice. Hence, the character of the people who seek out this sort of service is usually beyond question.
I think however, given the current climate, it was unwise for anybody from the federal executive to accept an invitation for a jolly to France. If, as has been suggested here, it was at the invitation of CN, it raises fears (justly or unjustly) that it could be used to compromise a persons negotiating position.
And raises some question as to whether or not you may have allowed CN to deliberately create some disenchantment between the members and its executive (The old divide and conquer routine).
It also raises concerns as to where the executive's priorities lie at a time when we appear to be in a fight for our very survival.
Just a thought.
