The question of monarchy was debated at the monthly meeting of the Canadian Ethnic Journalists' and Writers' Club, held this month at the OMNI-TV boardroom.


Both representatives, John Aimers of the Monarchist League of Canada and Tom Freda of Citizens for a Canadian Republic have been often seen in the media, most often when there is a controversy involving the Queen or the Governor General. Their positions as expressed were only partially satisfying.

First off the mark was Freda, whose arguments were hinged on questioning why we should have the monarchy at all, since we have weaned ourselves from the monarchy or control of the British Commonwealth.

Freda suggested we could keep some of the symbols like the name "Royal" Canadian Canadian Mounted Police but divest ourselves of the term "head of state" given to the Queen. His model was Australia (which still has the Union Jack on its flag).

Freda's "crowning" point was that a Canadian-born person could never become head of state of the commonwealth. Neither could anyone who is not Anglican.

Aimers on the other hand made his argument by claiming that the monarchy keeps us separate from the giant to the south, helps UN recognition as one of the world’s better countries, and the idea of "if it ain't broke don't fix it".

Aimers has adopted the monarchical mold, having kept his position as chairman for some 30 years.

When asked about their membership numbers, Freda admitted to 1,000 and Aimers demurred. Neither side is by droves of supporters.

At times the debate became politely spirited. The "monarchical roadshow" is a well-honed, fun act to watch.

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