Mr. Speaker, what are the qualifications required to become a Canadian senator?
Well, here they are. First, lose an election or, better yet, lose two elections. Chances are you will be a shoo-in for a Senate appointment and who better to represent the people than the candidate who people rejected at the polls.
Another way is to have blatant political connections, for example, working for a Liberal MP, or better yet, having the Prime Minister work for you and offering the Prime Minister a good deal on your company shares or co-chairing the Prime Minister's leadership campaign or chairing an election campaign or arranging candidate nominations.
Do your duty for the Liberals and you will be rewarded. So, Joan Cook of Newfoundland and Ross Fitzpatrick of B.C., come on down. Your seat in patronage heaven is assured.