It is that time of the year again when politicians across this fine country revive the pardon Louis Riel debate and it moves all across the political spectrum. It is that time of year again because it is gathering time for the Metis and it just so happens that politicians like speaking in front of gatherings. And typically, when they speak in front of people they tend to want to throw something out that is relevant to the scenario.

Case in point we have illiberal leader Michael Ignatieff speaking in front of a Metis gathering at this years Back to Batoche in Saskatchewan:

"The execution of Louis Riel shouldn't have happened," Ignatieff said, calling it "probably the most painful thing in our history."

"And if one day a pardon is a way to come to reconciliation on this, I'd be in favour of it." (Winnipeg Sun)

He also states in his classic flip-flop style that he would be in favour of it only if we wanted it. If the Metis wanted a pardon for Louis Riel then he would be in favour of it, if not, then he wouldn't. A recent editorial in the National Post accused Ignatieff of "ethno-political pandering" to our sensibilities and in general it is.

There are two Metis camps, those for pardoning Riel and those against and Ignatieff attempted to cozy up to both of them at the same time. Politicians will tell you whatever you want to hear and in this case as it is aimed at our specific 'ethno-group', I find it demeaning that Liberal leader Micheal Ignatieff thinks we are too stupid not to notice. But then again, we've been hoodwinked by the Liberals a couple of times before.