John Manley writes an op-ed in the Globe and Mail on how, "In the midst of cries for individual ‘freedoms,’ Canadian collectivism prevails."

He says that, "Like my fellow citizens of Ottawa, I feel a combination of anger, frustration and helplessness about the occupation of the downtown core of my city. Much of this derives from a sense that my governments are incapable of setting self-interest aside and acting together in a timely and decisive manner to preserve peace and ensure the safety and security of citizens."

John also looks the balance of collective interests and individual freedom in Canada, the need for trust to be earned and re-earned in our modern society and Canada's image as a rule-of-law country.

Globe and Mail subscribers can read the full op-ed here.