Failed Conservative Ipperwash policy back on display in Caledonia

CALEDONIA, ON, Sept. 23 /CNW/ - The failed Conservative Ipperwash policy is on display as John Tory recklessly tried to fan flames in the ongoing federal land claim dispute in Caledonia, said Deputy Premier George Smitherman.

"This man is so desperate that he is willing to jeopardize a fragile peace for his own personal gain," said Smitherman. "Conservatives never change. Our focus is maintaining peace, his focus is stirring the pot."

The failed Conservative approach has been rejected by the Ontario Court of Appeal, and the Ipperwash Commission.

Here's what the Ontario Court of Appeal had to say about the handling of Caledonia:

"... the peaceful occupation of what is now Crown land points to reconciliation, not the force of law, as the best way to achieve a lasting resolution of this dispute...

"The Supreme Court of Canada has repeatedly said that negotiation, not litigation, is the best way for our country to reconcile the claims of our Aboriginal communities with the rights of the Crown." (December 14, 2006)

And here's what the Ipperwash Inquiry had to say:

"Negotiation, not confrontation, is the best way to achieve progress in reconciling treaty and Aboriginal rights with non-Aboriginal rights and interests. Negotiated solutions will always work best to resolve the complex interaction of rights, expectations and interests... The objective of all parties in conflicts generally should be to develop a peaceful, constructive, enduring solution." (Pg. 108, Vol. 2)

"Despite all of the heated rhetoric, John Tory can't point to one thing he would do differently to end the dispute," said Smitherman.

The events of Ipperwash were a clear indication that peaceful negotiations should be pursued and politicians should not insert themselves in police operations. Smitherman also noted that on the day the Ipperwash Inquiry released its report John Tory went into hiding and has refused to call on Mike Harris to apologize for his government's actions.

"Ipperwash is still occupied 12 years later. That's the legacy of the Conservative approach," said Smitherman.

For further information: Ben Chin, (416) 961-3800 ext. 412,