Tying your agenda to the Budget & recent Throne Speech

...Obviously, take a quick synapsis and see how exactly your priorities fit in with those of the government. In the simple analysis of things, it goes without saying that if your goals fit in with the Conservatives' priorities, you stand a reasonable chance of success. Make sure your communications plan and subsequent efforts are in no uncertain terms, clear on the match your position takes with that of the five priorities.

Also, as the government is likely to take a focus of shorter term objectives, look into where your organization's priorities lie. Can you prioritize your own wish list? For example, is the solution you're offering one that could reasonably come about in a short period of time? In other words, one that could bring a swift result within at least a year or two? With the Conservative Party in a minority government position, their lifetime expectancy is no likely to be more than 18 months. Party operatives will be anxious to show Canadians that they accomplished a number of objectives.

If your priorities are not necessarily laid out in the budget or the Speech from the Throne, don't despair. Do your research. Look into past commitments from the Conservatives and remind them (tactfully and diplomtically) how following your agenda, will still keep them in line with their stated positions.

Put your emphasis on what aspects of your plan will most likely gain support from the opposition parties. The government will need their help to pass anything. Something that will pass the House easily is sure to be a winner for your cause.

Pay close attention to the agendas of ministers and their speaking engagements. In the case of Chuck Strahl, the agriculture minister, significant budgetary and policy commitments were made in the weeks leading up to the Throne Speech despite very little mention of agriculture issues in the party's priorities. These engagements can give indications of possible openings from which your organization can benefit.

However, in terms of direct contact with ministers offices, be mindful of the recent trend of very centralized communications coming out of PMO. Ministers and their staff may be more gunshy about publicly endorsing one position over the other without approval first coming from the Prime Minister's office. It may be fruitfull to simultaneously run your program by staff in PMO.