You may recall, several weeks ago I wrote to Community Affairs Minister Jamie Fox critizing him about forcing communities to amalgamate. I have since learned his lackeys are taking advantage of the virus restrictions. As large gatherings are not permitted, his team is now conducting amalgamation by mail. We know how they manipulated Three Rivers and Bonshaw into unwanted amalgamation and now they are trying these new tactics on other areas by mail-in questionnaires. What is so important and why the rush that we cannot hold meetings to discuss this vile act that denies residents of their democratic rights, and increases their taxes for no additional services? I call on Premier Dennis King to give funds to the rural coalition to hold meetings in all three counties to discuss the reason why his government — after saying it would rescind the Municipal Government Act — has changed its mind. Tell Islanders why you are forcing this unneeded, costly, ridiculous act down our throats. If this act is so good for us, tell us, laying out all the pros and cons. Minister Fox, you have a choice to make: Tell the people the truth and let them decide or withhold the details and resign. This is what is meant by the term “honourable”.
Paul Smitz,
Brookvale
