The Pessimist

I was greatly saddened today to hear about 6 Canadian soldier being killed in Afghanistan by a road side bomb. I extend my deepest condolences to their family and friends, and those who serve with them.

This is an extreme tragedy and it serves to underline the reason that the Taliban needs to be routed. They should not be negotiated with; they should not be allowed to hide in and operate from Pakistan.

Do not tie our soldiers hands; give them all the tools they need to do the job. Maximum force should be used to ensure their safety at all times. If 600 Taliban can be killed in response to this attack, then I support that action 100 per cent. If a bunker-buster bomb lands on a Taliban encampment in Pakistan, then our good ally Musharaf should follow up by bayonetting the survivors. Supporters of the Taliban should be imprisoned or killed with impunity.

Our soldiers are doing a good job in Afghanistan. These losses are a sad day.