Over the years, I have read "this article" at least a dozen times, and agree with each-and-every one. Mr. Balsillie's would be better served, if there was a simple (political), three point plan to rally around, with initial meager goals (0.25-0.5% IP Growth) to clarify success.
As Canadians, we live in our "parents attic" (US) safe from hostile existential risk and "blessed" with monthly "allowance" from natural resources that happen to be on the property. Until these factors change, the motivation to recognize, accept and address the issues Jim Balsillie has (again) outlined here, is unlikely to receive purchase in this generation. Motivation for change is at its weakest when "life is good".