Brian, the national anthem was never banned at the school in Springfield. For almost two years it was played at monthly assemblies and special occasions. Like many other schools in the country, the anthem was not played each morning. The statements made by Conservative MP's in the House were inflammatory and not based on fact. It is interesting to note that the school Principal was the Green candidate in the last election and campaigned against the current Conservative MP, who is also the Minister of Veterans Affairs. This entire affair was political.

You're right, too many people in Canada have become "brain-numbed". The woman who brought the complaint even noted that "The Pledge of Allegiance" is no longer said in school. We don't have a pledge of allegiance. Canada has an Oath of Allegiance, which has never been required for school children, only officials of the Crown and members of the Armed Forces.