There is an old saying that those who fail to learn from history are doomed to repeat it. This appears to be the case regarding the native land claims. Back in 1938, we learned that you cannot negotiate with an opposite side, who is unwilling to compromise or surrender on some points. Remember "peace in our time," and where did negotiations get us then?
After over 30 years in public service, I am a firm believer, that negotiating is by far the best method to solve disputes. However, when the opposite side refuses to budge, then the only other way to solve it is through using the law, which sometimes means force to effect the lawful purpose.
Coun. James Calnan might better give his head a shake to wake himself up. We saw negotiations at Caledonia, where the only thing gained by the non-natives was two negotiators made some nice pocket change of about $30,000 each. The spineless government, which is responsible for policing, allowed the natives to take the land in question. Yes, OPP Commissioner Julian Fantino, you did a great job of keeping the peace. Anyone could have done the same by surrendering like you did by not enforcing the court order of Judge David Marshall.
We now have a similar situation here. A judge ordered an injunction against the protesters. They tore it up, and had the developers move their equipment off their own legally owned property. That constitutes mischief under the Criminal Code.
The police are obviously following some-one's
orders to keep the peace at all costs. I guess when a police officer takes a punch to the face, they felt -- and rightly so -- that they had to arrest the person responsible. Yet, they are so concerned about escalation, they allow many other breaches of the law.
All the lands under the City of Brantford are subject to possible claim. Will Calnan be glad to surrender the home he paid for, if and when, they decide to claim it? I doubt his position will be the same.
I do not know how many or if any of the native claims are legitimate or not. However, what they are doing is hurting all of us, natives included. Developers will stay away from the cities bordering the Grand River, as they do not need the hassle.
The time for all the talking has ran out. Either they prove their claims in court and deal with the federal government or England -- if they do not think we have any say in the matter. England started the mess.
In any case, I believe the their actions should be stopped, and those held accountable if they continue. In reference to their claim that our law does not apply to them, I remind them that there is a Six Nations police department that does not agree with them, and enforces Canadian law.