Canadian political life in 2012 will be anything but dull: uncertain economic times that could either strengthen or weaken Conservative support; two opposition parties in flux, fighting for influence and voter support; and a new leader for the NDP and the Conservative political machine.

In a parliament where caustic behavior has become the norm, bad behavior gets the spotlight (Justin Trudeau as an example), rudeness is rewarded, and low-key dedicated MPs who are the backbone of our system are ignored and overlooked by the voting public. The net result is an electorate disgusted with the behaviour they see on the news.

Are our MPs incapable of asking a 35 second question without reading it word for word? Are our ministers so poorly briefed that they can't respond to a question within 35 seconds without reading a scripted answer word for word?

Opposition groups can organize and protest much more quickly on social media. While a government argues facts, figures, and economic benefits, groups argue on an emotional level. In political terms we used to refer to this as appealing to the head or heart, with the heart usually winning.

I was disappointed to see former Prime Minister Paul Martin attack Harper on the First Nations conference yesterday. First Nations issues should cross party lines. I would have preferred to see him offer to work with the present Prime Minister, rather than refight old battles.

With the House of Commons returning today we can expect a raucous session. The Prime Minister's office is already in full damage control mode insisting there are no immediate plans to make changes to pensions. Adding fuel to the fire are Jason Kenney's comments on revamping the immigration process.