A first move

Today's CP article on the upcoming premiers' meeting doesn't seem to pay a ton of attention to a significant shift in position. But if Dalton McGuinty's comment is any indication, it may not be long before the provinces are able to put some serious pressure on the Cons rather than arguing amongst themselves:

Mr. McGuinty, who has been firm in his stance against enriching equalization payments, risked entering the lion's den last week when he wrapped up a cross-country tour in Newfoundland to explain his position.

While he declined to reveal where he was willing to compromise, he hinted boosting the national equalization program would likely be one aspect of a solution that satisfies everyone.

“I think that's ultimately where the consensus will emerge,” Mr. McGuinty said after his meeting with Mr. Williams.

Considering that Ontario's desire to push more funding toward per-capita programs than toward equalization had been one of the largest barriers to any provincial consensus, McGuinty's willingness to agree to expanded equalization could go a long way toward getting a deal done. The question now is whether the other provinces will seize the opportunity to reach agreement - and all the provinces have plenty to gain if they can present a united front to get the best possible deal out of Harper.