"O'Leary is a recognized figure ..."  Oh, absolutely, MysteryBee.  And "when it comes to a meaningful policy debate" I think that Mr. O'Leary would be there.  Which is what he's been saying: this was NOT a meaningful...well, "something."  Surely not even a debate, in the true sense of the word.  

He's done well, here.  For himself, for sure (Only the deluded would think the others be crowded on the stage, hoping for that "me, too" moment are any different.)  One BIG difference: he makes the event work for him--they don't.  I like that in a leader.  And because he can do it so well--wow think how he'd wipe the floor with Trudeau, he just may do really well for his party, too...and don't think there weren't some murmuring backstage who didn't think so!