Rule of law must prevail in Caledonia dispute

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The Dialy Press

Editorial - Tuesday, August 15, 2006 @ 10:00

The ruling last week by an Ontario Court judge was exactly what the land dispute in caledonia demands. It's too bad the provincial government couldn't understand that.

Superior Court Judge David Marshall said negotiations between the province and disgruntled Natives must cease until the Natives leave a disputed piece of property in the southern Ontario community. Marshall used words such as "lawlessness" to characterize the occupation, which began in February when Natives who claimed ancient title moved onto land scheduled for development and erected barricades blocking a highway into town.

What has occurred as a result of the Natives' failure to obey the court? Tension between Native and non- Native residents continues.

Last week, Marshall did what had to be done. He said enough is enough: You've had five months to settle things. Now it's time to do as the court told you.

"The court has been patient but the court cannot turn a blind eye to blatant contempt of the court's lawful order," he said.

The province has chosen to appeal Marshall's decision. By doing so the province has thrown its lot in with thugs and bullies and endorsed the weakness of its police force. By doing so, it sends a poor signal to the rest of us.

Untie the hands of police. Let them enforce the court order. Then we can talk, without the threats and posturing of one side hanging over the other.