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Frank Coleman, the man poised to be the next premier of Newfoundland, mired in abortion controversy

The man poised to be the next premier of Newfoundland and Labrador is under fire — from all sides — about his views on abortion.

As explained by the Canadian Press, Frank Coleman — the only candidate in the race to replace former premier Kathy Dunderdale as Conservative party leader — was recently outed for attending anti-abortion rallies in the past.

He responded to the controversy by issuing this statement:

Democracy exists when different people share different views and are open to listening to one another.

I celebrate the fact that we live in a diverse society and I therefore do not seek to impose my personal beliefs on others for respect does not insist on its own way. I think the strength of a democracy rests on our ability to draw upon leaders from varied faiths, beliefs and experiences.

It is with humility and honesty that I say unequivocally yes, I have as a private individual participated in the Right to Life walk held each Good Friday in Corner Brook.

My family’s participation in this event is a result of shared beliefs on the value of every human life. I do not seek to impose my views on anyone and truly respect the gift of free will we are all afforded.

As a leader I believe in the rule of law. It would be weak of me to deny my beliefs and at the same time it is important that people understand I do not intend to impose my personal views. I have too much respect for all the people of this Province.

It's always interesting to watch how devout politicians handle the hot potato issue of abortion.

[ Related: Gruesome anti-abortion pamphlets targeting Conservative MPs make their way into Canadians’ mailboxes ]

There are some who actually get into to office while continuing to promote pro-life policies.

There are others who have put aside their beliefs in exchange for political pragmatism and electability.

Progressive Conservative leader Tim Hudak falls into that category: During the 2011 election campaign an article surfaced suggesting that he was "pro-life and has signed petitions calling for abortion defunding and conscience legislation."

Hudak, later questioned by reporters at a press conference at Queen's Park, said he "may have" signed petitions in his riding calling to end abortion funding in the past, but would follow Prime Minister Stephen Harper's lead and leave the issue alone if elected.

"Let me be clear: we are not reopening this debate," he insisted. "Just like the federal Parliament, we would not be reopening that issue."

The Harper/Hudak approach, it seems, is the strategy now being adopted by Coleman.

So far, at least, the opposition is treading lightly.

NDP leader Lorraine Michael told CFCB Radio that she won't condemn Coleman's beliefs but will speak-up if he attempts to limit abortion access.

Others, however, aren't as understanding.

Not surprisingly, CP quotes an pro-life advocate from Pro-Life NL who sounds disappointed.

"Patrick Hanlon, a spokesman for the group, says a well-formed conscience does not allow for one view privately and another publicly, adding that he hopes Coleman's conscience will guide him in using the influence he will wield as premier."

A writer for The Independent was also critical of Coleman's position but for very different reasons.

[ Related: Hundreds jeer New Brunswick politicians over abortion regulations ]

Hans Rollmann says that by going to these rallies, Coleman wasn't just expressing his personal view, he was participating in political activism. Moreover he argues that abortion and abortion services are an issue of great importance in Newfoundland and Labrador

"In this province, only three out of fourteen hospitals provide abortion services (21 per cent — a failing grade). There is only one stand-alone clinic, and that’s in St. John’s. There is no access to services in Labrador and the concentration of services in St. John’s makes it inaccessible for women from other parts of the province," he wrote in an excellent column.

"[Coleman] ought to make a clear public statement—far more clear than his dithering comments thus far—proclaiming his support for strong and sustained access to abortion, his clear commitment to enhance and improve the already seriously under-funded access to that public service in this province, and his commitment to not ever march or participate in events like this again while serving in public office."

What do you think?

Should residents of Newfoundland and Labrador be suspicious of Coleman? Can he, succeed at not imposing his personal views, with regard to abortion, in government decisions?

Let us know your thoughts in the comment section below.

(Photo courtesy of the Canadian Press)

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