YES TO LOCAL ENVIRONMENTAL PROTESTS

Today's Waterloo Region Record carries a story titled "Ford greeted with jeers by protesters in Kitchener". I am heartened by citizens both young and old standing up and saying no to provincial politicians who richly deserve to be tarred and feathered prior to being kicked out of office. That cheerfully said I am also pleased and frankly surprised by the unanimous vote taken by Waterloo Region councillors who have voted not to accept exemptions allowed in Bill 66 that would permit weakening of both the Clean Water Act and the Greenbelt Act. These changes would circumvent planning protections that protect our natural environment as well as directly protecting the health and lives of our citizens. Waterloo Regional Council constantly flip flop in their protection of the powerful and influential as well as of the status quo, think Waterloo Regional Police and their treatment of female officers; but then turn around and understand the importance of protecting green space, limiting urban sprawl through infilling and by at least protecting some of our drinking water from further industrial damage.

Premier Ford attended a fund raising dinner at Bingeman's in Kitchener last evening. His director of media relations responded to the Record's request for comment by stating that the sold out dinner was a clear sign the government is "moving in the right direction as it continues to take steps to make life more affordable for families across the province." Wow! I would suggest that Ford's director of media relations comments are a clear sign that the government of Ontario hasn't a leg to stand on in regards to their proposed Bill 66 and surely do not want to debate or discuss it publicly. A sad commentary on the effects of a majority government folks of whatever party but most especially of this party (ie. Conservative).