Dear editor,The government is taking a dangerous step pushing through so many changes to existing legislation that have little or nothing to do with the nation's budget.These changes should each get a fair hearing in the committees with the expertise to examine them, to ensure that the government is enacting well-considered policies that will be a net benefit to Canadians.I am asking MP John Duncan as a constituent to please urge his cabinet colleagues to break up Bill C-38 to allow reasoned debate on the bill's many disparate sections. Packaging all into an omnibus bill this size goes against parliamentary tradition and shows disrespect for our democratic heritage. This is a dangerous precedent that could be used by future governments.I strongly feel that this political manoeuvre will further undermine participation in our democracy and create additional cynicism about the political process in general. This bill directly contradicts the government's claims to be open, responsive and accountable.It's not too late to take the high road and change this legislation.Canadians of all political persuasions are disappointed with this high-handed approach to governing and are waiting for this government to take a more humble, responsible and conservative position that respects our parliamentary traditions and democratic principles.Gavin MacPhail,Comox