The turmoil over this elections debates started when the Prime Minister decided that appearing before millions of Canadians to debate election issues in the unofficial, yet traditional, arena was not going to happen this time around. Mr. Mulcair, seems to have decided this is ok and will follow the Prime Minister's leadership concerning what venues and topics are suitable for debates. Since this petition began, both Harper and Mulcair have decided appearing to the Consortium's French language debate would work with their busy campaign schedules. However, the Consortium is not the only debate that has had trouble attracting the Prime Minister and Her Majesty's Loyal Opposition leader. Up For Debate has long been trying to get a debate geared specifically towards Women's Issues. There is a vast number of topics ranging from Missing and Murdered Indigenous Women, to wage equity, and involvement in government office. It seems fitting that in this election where multiple debates are to be held that we could dedicate a hour and half or so to these issues. Yet, Mr. Harper has decided not to attend, and once again Mr. Mulcair is following his example. And it is one further opportunity missed in which we would get to see ALL our leaders compare and contrast policy and attitudes towards this topic. Justin Trudeau, Elizabeth May, and even Gilles Duceppe have indicated this is an important issue and have confirmed they will attend. As time slowly marches on, I hope people will continue to pressure Mr. Harper and Mr. Mulcair to respect the range of political stripes, questions, and leanings of the Canadian people. I hope these two leaders will reconsider the opportunity to showcase their policy and character before the largest audience by attending the nationally televised and radio broadcast Consortium debate.