Since there are a lot of Canadians on these boards, and that means we are likely far too polite...I wish to remind everyone that if you see a position you'd like to run for, but think it would be rude to run because someone else has declared their intention to run - please don't be too concerned.

The constitution has a built in mechanism whereby the elected Minister can select a Deputy.

A good way to show your value as a worthy Deputy Minister is to run for a position. If you lose - no big deal - you can always use your experience in the election as a candidate to help you gain an unelected position as a Deputy Minister.

Anyway, I just thought I'd pass that thought along to everyone.