Re: 'Return law to Caledonia: Tory; PC leader says illegal activity must end for land talks to continue' (Feb. 21)
I have always read with interest about Conservative Leader John Tory's visits to Caledonia, and I give him credit for visiting the area. However, I am getting a little tired of his rhetoric and useless suggestions.
The four steps that he suggested the Liberal government take during his most recent visit read very much like many other things we get from Toronto. It sounds good, but in reality does he truly believe that these steps will make a difference in the negotiation process?
We should remind Tory that it was one of his predecessors, then premier Mike Harris, who really established how we deal with these situations today. Harris and his government's outrageous treatment of the First Nations people at Ipperwash was a shocking display in abuse of power and disrespect for beliefs of others.
Tory is quick to point out the ever-increasing costs in the Caledonia situation; however, I don't believe I have ever heard him tell the people of Ontario about the millions of dollars that were spent at Ipperwash and the following inquiry. But even more important than the money that has been spent was the senseless loss of a human life.
What the people of Ontario want is for our elected officials at all levels of government to put aside the politics, cut through the bureaucratic mess that prevents positive results, and work together in finding solutions for not only Caledonia but other areas in Ontario and across Canada.