Bono's Bully Pulpit

Martin booed at U2 concert; fans sign Bono's end-poverty petition to PM

Amy Carmichael
Canadian Press

April 30, 2005

VANCOUVER (CP) - Prime Minister Paul Martin was booed at a sold-out rock show by thousands who have sided with U2's Bono, a rock star who won't let Canada beg off the fight to end poverty.

Bono is speaking out against the embattled leader for breaking a promise to raise Canada's spending on foreign aid. But at his first Canadian show of the Vertigo tour in Vancouver on Thursday, Bono asked the crowds not to give up on Martin yet. "I think we're going to figure this thing out. I think he's a great leader for Canada and that he can do what we want him to do, to lead the world out of despair and poverty, this year."

Bono, a long-time crusader for the relief of Third World debt, challenged Martin to deliver on a commitment to raise Canada's spending on foreign aid to 0.7 per cent of the gross domestic product by 2015.

He flashed a phone number on the jumbo screens above the stage asking people to call the prime minister and give him the strength to write the cheque Martin now says Canada can't afford.

"If you people believe in it, I believe Paul Martin is the kind of person who will listen to you. Let him know. Get out your phones. Dangerous little devices, these cell phones. We want to make poverty history," Bono screamed. "This is the year!"

The stadium, a rocking temple of Bono worship, was lit in the cool glow of dialling mobiles and the band, inspiring the crowd to make a difference with One.

"One love, one life, when it's one need, in the night," the audience cried along with Bono.

"This audience, this generation, has had enough," he screamed back.

"Enough! Enough! Enough of despair! No more! So Paul Martin, I'm calling you!"
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I think it's great that Bono has strong beliefs and that he works for his causes; but flashing Martin's phone number on screens and encouraging the audience to call him during the concert is a silly stunt.

From CP:

Paul Martin says he and rock-star Bono are still tight despite the fact that U2 fans booed the prime minister at a concert earlier this week.

"It's no rift," Martin insisted Friday after reporters asked him questions about the sour reaction.

"We are very, very good friends."

Obviously, Martin was not troubled by the booing or phone calls. Bono did say Martin was a "great leader for Canada," and that he would listen to the people. There is clearly mutual respect between the two men.

Still, I have a suggestion for the prime minister.

Next time Martin makes an appearance or gives a televised speech, he should have Bono's phone number flashed on screens. He should encourage people to call Bono and tell him to write out a big, fat check for Third World relief.

That seems fair.