For immediate release:
Oct 13, 2006
Note: MPP Toby Barrett sent the following letter and Hansard transcript to constituents today, stressing the importance of safety for the October 15 rally in Caledonia.
Hello, Toby here,
Just returned from Friday the 13th. Addressed the opening ceremonies, and also spoke with many – ranging from Hells Angels to Christian Bikers. In 25 years I have never seen fists fly at PD 13– something people from all sides at the barricades in Caledonia might want to consider. For me, safety is a top priority on October 15.
You would recall that I made it clear I will only speak to this weekend’s Caledonia gathering if the OPP and the McGuinty government ensure the safety of the people. This week in the Ontario Legislature I reiterated my position that the safety of all people must be ensured before I confirm my intention to address the rally. I made it clear that marching to the Douglas Creek Estates is a non-starter. I’ve included the Hansard below.
I feel my preconditions of a month ago have been met. On October 11, 2006, Acting OPP Commissioner Jay Hope said that “the OPP is well prepared to deal with any situation that may arise as a result of this weekend’s anticipated rally.” I will address the rally – and as I have done at every gathering – I will advise people from all sides of the issue to not approach the barricades looking for a fight.
Having spent time in a number of South American and Middle Eastern countries where the right to protest – let alone assemble – was suppressed, I concur with OPP Jay Hope’s assertion on October 11, 2006, when he said “…the OPP is supportive of an individual’s right to protest peacefully.” We must fight for this right if we are to begin to lift the shroud of fear and intimidation that now smothers Six Nations/Caledonia.
LEGISLATIVE ASSEMBLY OF ONTARIO
Tuesday 10 October 2006
NATIVE LAND DISPUTE
Mr. Toby Barrett (Haldimand-Norfolk-Brant): This coming Sunday, October 15, there is a proposed rally in my riding of Caledonia, and the McGuinty government has declared it will keep the event safe. For me, safety is a top priority.
The Toronto Star reports, "The provincial government doesn't have any plans to either sanction or stop the rally."
Minister Ramsay's spokesperson Anne-Marie Flanagan was also quoted in the Toronto Star as saying, "We'll monitor and take appropriate action to make sure people are safe." Further to this, the Toronto Sun reports that "Attorney General Michael Bryant said his ministry wasn't seeking an injunction."
The question remains, what action is being taken by this government to ensure the safety of the people attending? Whether I speak or don't speak is predicated on a precondition that I have set with organizers in September. My precondition is that the OPP and the McGuinty government ensure the safety of the people. I've made it clear that marching to the occupied site is a non-starter. All parties must respect the rule of law.
Where is the government's plan? To date, I have not heard of any action to ensure safety -- just promises. Simply put, it is incumbent on the McGuinty government and the Ontario Provincial Police to ensure the safety of those people attending.