Councillor Craig Grice

[I asked Mr. Grice to speak today - not as a supporter of Gary but as a voice for his riding, for the People of Caledonia]

Message from your Councillor:

I’m not here because of Mr. McHale! Love him or hate him, some feel he serves a purpose. The problem for every resident of Caledonia, Ontario, Canada and the O.P.P. is that he and others like him, on either side of this issue, shouldn’t even exist!!

I would say, that I shouldn’t even have the need of talking to this issue; if only those in power would have simply done their job. I’m here for one simple reason and one true fact. Residents of Caledonia need to tell the people of Ontario and Canada, that we are the victims of actions beyond our control and we demand our lives back!!

Mr. Harper and the Federal Government have forgotten the people of Caledonia! Our own M.P., and Cabinet Minister, Diane Finley, would need a “neon sign” to be recognized. The Federal Government thus far has demonstrated to us all that they are unwilling to help Caledonia, a) to recover, as they have offered nothing to assist us or our County as time passes by and b) to provide a light at the end of the tunnel as it pertains to the occupation. This is a Federal matter that Caledonia wants or needs no part of!!

What we need to know, is that there will be resolve! We have lives to live and only one chance to do thing right, not just for ourselves, but for our families and friends.

Mr. McGuinty and the Province have said many times that the occupiers should not do this or that and when his words are not honoured, we who live here are expected to keep the peace and forget what is happening in our backyards. It’s been almost a year and we are no closer to anything other than frustration and the same rhetoric, “be patient”! I ask!

What have the people of Caledonia done to deserve the spotlight? To deserve the label of Racists? To be asked to put their lives on hold and let others decide what is best for their future? My question, and those of Caledonia is, why involve us? We have done nothing to promote ignorance towards land claim issues or provoke hostility, yet we sit in the middle!

We truly desire justice for all. It is what Canada and our flag is recognized for, and it is seen not just here at home, but worldwide.

Caledonia in the most plain and simple words, is a community built through relationships, a town that exists because people here live not just for themselves, but for their neighbour and there is no where else they, or I would rather live.

Craig Grice Caledonia Councillor