McGuinty apologizes

Fri, June 1, 2007

The premier acts on a recommendation from the Ipperwash Inquiry.

By ANTONELLA ARTUSO, SUN MEDIA QUEEN'S PARK BUREAU
London Free Press

TORONTO -- Premier Dalton McGuinty formally apologized on behalf of all Ontarians yesterday for the shooting of native protester Dudley George.

"Nothing can change the events that took place 12 summers ago or fully erase the scar that has been left on the history of aboriginal relationships for all who live here," McGuinty said in the legislature. "On behalf of the people of Ontario, we apologize for the events that led to the loss of life. We deeply regret the death of Dudley George."

Ipperwash Inquiry Commissioner Sidney Linden's report will serve as a "guide" and a testament to George's memory as the government seeks to chart a co-operative and constructive course with aboriginal communities, he said.

"What matters most is our common humanity, that sense that we're all in this together and that real progress means we must all move forward together," McGuinty said. "That sentiment, that value is the foundation of a strong partnership."

David Ramsay, Ontario's minister responsible for aboriginal affairs, said the Ipperwash tragedy influenced his government's response to protesters occupying Douglas Creek Estates in Caledonia.

Ramsay said they learned that acting out of anger or impatience would not yield positive results.

"We didn't have to wait for an inquiry to understand that that wasn't the appropriate response and so we took a very different tact," Ramsay said.

The minister said he supports the recommendations in the Ipperwash Inquiry report to create a separate provincial ministry for native affairs and an independent body to negotiate land claims, but McGuinty will make the final decision.

NDP Leader Howard Hampton said McGuinty's "rhe-toric" ignored conflicts with First Nations communities that continue under his watch.

The Liberals failed to consult with aboriginal communities on a number of important initiatives such as the new child protection law and mining licences, he said.

"What I thought we heard today were simply more words with no action," he added.

PC Leader John Tory issued a statement yesterday calling George's death "tragic" and supporting the public apology to his family.

"The goal for all political and aboriginal leaders coming out of this report must be to turn the corner on aboriginal relations in a productive and compassionate manner," he said.