Environment . Human Rights . Politics . Atheism . Food . Toronto . Ontario . Canada
3.24.2012
3.23.2012
The Future of Jarvis: Public Town Hall
Councillor Kristyn Wong-Tam wants to hear from the
community about the future of Jarvis Street. If you are a cyclist, this
is your chance to defend our bike lanes!
When
the Public Works Committee decided to rip out the bike lanes, Kristyn
was not consulted nor was the public. Now she wants to give citizens a
chance to be heard.
This is a free public event, open to everyone:
Tuesday, April 3rd, 6:30pm
Jarvis Collegiate Institute (at Wellesley)
Facebook rsvp: https://www.facebook.com/
If you support the bikelanes, join us at this meeting (and wear your helmet!).
3.22.2012
A childhood lost can never be regained.
Last week I was shopping in the new Loblaws store that has taken up residence in the Maple Leaf Gardens building. The spacious store was bustling with shoppers, many taking pictures and excitedly calling friends on their iphones describing the new store. I wondered how many of them knew about the crimes that took place here, or if they cared.
Every time I go near that building, I think of Martin Kruze, a man I've never met and never will. Martin killed himself in November 1997 by jumping off the Bloor St. viaduct, a few hundred metres from where I now live.
He was one of the many children who were sexually abused in this iconic building in downtown Toronto. Martin was the first victim to come forward in 1997. I think of Martin Kruze and Sheldon Kennedy because the same year, I was going through a very public case regarding sexual abuse myself.
The effects of childhood sexual abuse lasts for years and destroys lives.
I was sharply reminded of this on Tuesday when the pedophile Graham James was sentenced to a pathetic two years in prison for repeatedly molesting Theron Fleury and his cousin Todd Holt.
I had been sexually abused for more than a decade, by two men, one an uncle and the other a family friend. It began when I was 10 years old. The uncle pleaded guilty to molesting me (and others) more than 500 times. He was sentenced to 10 years. He served about 3. The other man killed himself before standing trial.
In 1997, he also admitted to molesting Sheldon Kennedy, who played in the NHL, and another player. James served about 18 months for that conviction.
Mr. Holt, said in a statement yesterday, "This sentence today is nothing short of a national travesty because we know that childhood sexual abuse has reached epidemic proportions in our country." I couldn't agree more.
The province of Manitoba should appeal the sentence of Graham James. As it stands James could be out of prison by November of this year!
The survivors of childhood sexual abuse deal with the effects of the abuse daily, for the rest of their lives. Studies have proven higher rates of drug and alcohol abuse, depression and suicide.
This has to stop. We must send a strong message to those who abuse children that they will be punished to the full extent of the law.
We must send an equally strong message to the children who are being abused that we won't tolerate abuse and they will be supported if/when they come forward.
Judge Catherine Carlson has done a great disservice to the people of Canada.
A childhood lost can never be regained. Ever.
Every time I go near that building, I think of Martin Kruze, a man I've never met and never will. Martin killed himself in November 1997 by jumping off the Bloor St. viaduct, a few hundred metres from where I now live.
He was one of the many children who were sexually abused in this iconic building in downtown Toronto. Martin was the first victim to come forward in 1997. I think of Martin Kruze and Sheldon Kennedy because the same year, I was going through a very public case regarding sexual abuse myself.
The effects of childhood sexual abuse lasts for years and destroys lives.
I was sharply reminded of this on Tuesday when the pedophile Graham James was sentenced to a pathetic two years in prison for repeatedly molesting Theron Fleury and his cousin Todd Holt.
I had been sexually abused for more than a decade, by two men, one an uncle and the other a family friend. It began when I was 10 years old. The uncle pleaded guilty to molesting me (and others) more than 500 times. He was sentenced to 10 years. He served about 3. The other man killed himself before standing trial.
In 1997, he also admitted to molesting Sheldon Kennedy, who played in the NHL, and another player. James served about 18 months for that conviction.
Mr. Holt, said in a statement yesterday, "This sentence today is nothing short of a national travesty because we know that childhood sexual abuse has reached epidemic proportions in our country." I couldn't agree more.
The province of Manitoba should appeal the sentence of Graham James. As it stands James could be out of prison by November of this year!
The survivors of childhood sexual abuse deal with the effects of the abuse daily, for the rest of their lives. Studies have proven higher rates of drug and alcohol abuse, depression and suicide.
This has to stop. We must send a strong message to those who abuse children that they will be punished to the full extent of the law.
We must send an equally strong message to the children who are being abused that we won't tolerate abuse and they will be supported if/when they come forward.
Judge Catherine Carlson has done a great disservice to the people of Canada.
A childhood lost can never be regained. Ever.
James sentence should be appealed
OTTAWA - The Green Party of Canada is joining the
calls for the Manitoba government to appeal the Graham James sentence.
The former junior hockey coach was sentenced to a paltry two years for
sexually abusing the young boys under his care.
“We are very concerned that this light sentence will have a profound effect on other victims who may never come forward, since they do not appear to be taken seriously,” said Green Leader Elizabeth May, MP for Saanich-Gulf Islands.
“This man could be out of prison by the end of the year. The punishment does not seem to fit the crime.”
“We also hope that treatment will be in place along with his punishment. The victims deserve to know that everything possible is being done to ensure this pedophile will not harm another child,” said May.
“We are very concerned that this light sentence will have a profound effect on other victims who may never come forward, since they do not appear to be taken seriously,” said Green Leader Elizabeth May, MP for Saanich-Gulf Islands.
“This man could be out of prison by the end of the year. The punishment does not seem to fit the crime.”
“We also hope that treatment will be in place along with his punishment. The victims deserve to know that everything possible is being done to ensure this pedophile will not harm another child,” said May.
3.21.2012
ORNGE Scandal Requires a Review of all Public-Private Partnerships
 |
| Photo Credit: Simcoe.com |
Toronto: Green Party of Ontario (GPO) leader Mike Schreiner is calling for a comprehensive review of all Public-Private Partnerships (P3s) in the wake of the scandal at ORNGE.
“Why are our tax dollars being wasted on million dollar bonuses and expensive perks?” asks Schreiner. “This mess stinks, and it calls into question the value, transparency and accountability of P3s.”
The GPO believes that Auditor General Jim McCarter’s Special Report for ORNGE Air Ambulance raises a number of disturbing questions that require a full review of all P3s in Ontario.
“The government clearly was unable to hold ORNGE accountable for quality patient care and responsible financial stewardship due to the arms length, P3 relationship with ORNGE,” says Schreiner.
The GPO believes the ORNGE scandal must go beyond typical gotcha politics and include a public review of P3s. Providing long-term solutions that result in transparent, accountable and effective delivery of public services are a top priority for the GPO.
“How many other ORNGE’s are out there,” asks Schreiner. “The privatization of profit and socialization of risk on the back of taxpayers concerns everyone. We need to know if P3s are really providing financial value for Ontario.”
“Why are our tax dollars being wasted on million dollar bonuses and expensive perks?” asks Schreiner. “This mess stinks, and it calls into question the value, transparency and accountability of P3s.”
The GPO believes that Auditor General Jim McCarter’s Special Report for ORNGE Air Ambulance raises a number of disturbing questions that require a full review of all P3s in Ontario.
“The government clearly was unable to hold ORNGE accountable for quality patient care and responsible financial stewardship due to the arms length, P3 relationship with ORNGE,” says Schreiner.
The GPO believes the ORNGE scandal must go beyond typical gotcha politics and include a public review of P3s. Providing long-term solutions that result in transparent, accountable and effective delivery of public services are a top priority for the GPO.
“How many other ORNGE’s are out there,” asks Schreiner. “The privatization of profit and socialization of risk on the back of taxpayers concerns everyone. We need to know if P3s are really providing financial value for Ontario.”
3.16.2012
The Robocall Scandal And A Call For Justice! (pressfortruth.tv)
Last Sunday, I attended the rally at Yonge Dundas Square and spoke to pressfortruth.tv
My comments can be seen around the 9:40 mark and again right at the end of the video. (Sorry about the bad hair!)
On Sunday March 11th Canadians all across the country held rallies to
call for a public inquiry into the robocall scandal. With more and more
complaints about calls coming in there appears to be a need for
by-elections in all effected ridings and for Stephen Harper to be held
accountable for electoral fraud.
3.12.2012
Robogate.ca
During the 2011 federal election, Canadians in several ridings with tight races across the country were contacted by automated calls and individuals providing false and misleading information. These dishonest tactics were deliberately used to weaken Canada's electoral process and discourage people from participating in our democratic system.
We cannot allow this!
Robogate.ca
3.11.2012
Holes of Happiness -Pothole Gardens
Holes Of Happiness is a short documentary looking at the reactions of the public to some pothole gardens that have been popping up around East London. http://www.thepotholegardener.com
3.10.2012
3.08.2012
Conservative wind moratorium blocks local decision making
Conservative Lisa Thompson’s proposal for a moratorium on wind undermines local decision making by denying communities the choice of supporting wind energy.
The GPO calls on MPPs to support local decision making by opposing this bill.
“Conservatives are talking out of both sides of their mouths with their efforts to kill green energy,” says Mike Schreiner, leader of the GPO. “A moratorium on wind denies communities the opportunity to support wind energy in ways that benefit the local economy. A moratorium that takes away choice from communities flies in the face of Conservative rhetoric around local decision making.”
The GPO rejects the false choice between the Conservative’s efforts to kill green energy and the Liberal approach of imposing corporate wind on communities without local participation. Unlike the old parties, the Green Party’s energy plan invests in Ontario communities first. The GPO supports a community-based energy policy that requires local ownership, local decision and local benefits.
“The Conservatives short sighted, politically expedient efforts to kill green energy will hurt our economy and set Ontario back a generation,” says Schreiner. “Ontario needs a long term energy plan that includes wind and other renewables, and prioritizes opportunities for local participation and benefits.”
The GPO calls on MPPs to support local decision making by opposing this bill.
“Conservatives are talking out of both sides of their mouths with their efforts to kill green energy,” says Mike Schreiner, leader of the GPO. “A moratorium on wind denies communities the opportunity to support wind energy in ways that benefit the local economy. A moratorium that takes away choice from communities flies in the face of Conservative rhetoric around local decision making.”
The GPO rejects the false choice between the Conservative’s efforts to kill green energy and the Liberal approach of imposing corporate wind on communities without local participation. Unlike the old parties, the Green Party’s energy plan invests in Ontario communities first. The GPO supports a community-based energy policy that requires local ownership, local decision and local benefits.
“The Conservatives short sighted, politically expedient efforts to kill green energy will hurt our economy and set Ontario back a generation,” says Schreiner. “Ontario needs a long term energy plan that includes wind and other renewables, and prioritizes opportunities for local participation and benefits.”
3.07.2012
Ontario loses because government leadership on climate change is missing in action
Ontario is already paying for the consequences of climate change, and the costs will only increase over time.
“Today’s report from the Environment Commissioner of Ontario is an admission that the Ontario government has failed to deliver solutions to address climate change,” says GPO leader Mike Schreiner. “Our identity as Canadians is threatened when warm temperatures melt backyard ice rinks and threaten our maple trees and maple syrup production.”
The government estimates that extreme weather events will cost Ontario over $5 billion per year by mid century. Last year, a report released by the National Roundtable on the Environment and Economy estimated that ignoring climate change could cost Canada's economy $5 billion per year by 2020.
“For years, the Environment Commissioner of Ontario has said that Ontario has no clear plan to meet its own targets for reducing greenhouse gas emissions,” says Schreiner. “Where is the political leadership to tackle this crucial issue that will cost Ontario billions if not addressed?”
The GPO believes it is unacceptable that the Liberal government did not post Climate Ready, Ontario’s Adaptation Strategy and Action Plan, 2011-2014 as a policy proposal, as required by law because of its environmental significance.
“It’s essential that the government consults Ontarians on the best climate adaptation strategies,” says Schreiner. “We can’t afford to waste billions on old infrastructure for a climate that no longer exists.”
The GPO also calls on the government to implement a job creating Green Building Program to help people save money by saving energy, reducing their greenhouse gas emissions and ensuring we have the right buildings for a changing climate.
“Today’s report from the Environment Commissioner of Ontario is an admission that the Ontario government has failed to deliver solutions to address climate change,” says GPO leader Mike Schreiner. “Our identity as Canadians is threatened when warm temperatures melt backyard ice rinks and threaten our maple trees and maple syrup production.”
The government estimates that extreme weather events will cost Ontario over $5 billion per year by mid century. Last year, a report released by the National Roundtable on the Environment and Economy estimated that ignoring climate change could cost Canada's economy $5 billion per year by 2020.
“For years, the Environment Commissioner of Ontario has said that Ontario has no clear plan to meet its own targets for reducing greenhouse gas emissions,” says Schreiner. “Where is the political leadership to tackle this crucial issue that will cost Ontario billions if not addressed?”
The GPO believes it is unacceptable that the Liberal government did not post Climate Ready, Ontario’s Adaptation Strategy and Action Plan, 2011-2014 as a policy proposal, as required by law because of its environmental significance.
“It’s essential that the government consults Ontarians on the best climate adaptation strategies,” says Schreiner. “We can’t afford to waste billions on old infrastructure for a climate that no longer exists.”
The GPO also calls on the government to implement a job creating Green Building Program to help people save money by saving energy, reducing their greenhouse gas emissions and ensuring we have the right buildings for a changing climate.
3.06.2012
Tory transit bill financially irresponsible
Tim Hudak’s private member’s bill to require Toronto to build
subways is financially irresponsible. The GPO is calling on all MPPs to
vote against the motion.
“Hudak’s motion would overrule Toronto
city council’s transit plans. This makes a mockery of any claim the
Tories have to financial responsibility and respecting local decision
making,” says GPO leader Mike Schreiner.
The GPO supports smart investments that make transit available for the most people at the lowest cost.
“We
must reduce gridlock in the GTA,” says Schreiner. “Gridlock costs us
over $6 billion per year in lost productivity and reduces our quality of
life. Toronto needs a transit plan that gives the biggest bang for our
buck.”
Although the GPO has concerns about the
messy transit debate in Toronto, the party supports council’s efforts to
develop a financially viable plan that delivers better transit service
in Toronto.
“No one has put forward a credible
plan to fund subway construction in Toronto,” says GPO transportation
critic Tim Grant. “Hudak’s irresponsible interference further derails
real solutions on transit in Toronto.”
The GPO
believes that the province should only provide funding for rapid transit
to cities that create plans to establish enough density around each
major transit stop, so that the new systems can eventually pay for
themselves once built.
3.03.2012
Green Cleaning Solutions for Dirty Politics
TORONTO -The robocalls scandal shows the need for a wider clean-up
of our electoral system, says the Green Party of Canada. “First of all,
we need to have a public commission of inquiry into the robocalls
scandal and get to the bottom of it. But we also need to look at wider
issues including the investigative power of Elections Canada, the increasing
use of negative election tactics, and whether more teeth need to be added to
the Elections Act,” said Green Leader Elizabeth May, MP for Saanich-Gulf
Islands.
Green candidate in the ongoing Toronto-Danforth by-election Adriana
Mugnatto-Hamu agreed, “The robocalls scandal involves such a volume of
complaints and is so widespread, it should now be turned over for a full public
inquiry. Then we need to make sure that Elections Canada can handle any
future complaints.”
The Green Party is suggesting that the resources and powers
of investigation for Elections Canada be expanded and rules added to the
Elections Act to specifically prohibit impersonation of any government body or
political party in phoning or communicating by any means with voters.
“It is sad that this is what we have come to in Canada.
This scandal shows that we can not afford to be complacent. We must act
to protect the most fundamental right of voting,” said May.
The Greens have also suggested a ban on TV advertising by
political parties and third party groups to reduce the increasingly negative
tone in elections. “Negative advertising is proven to turn people off
voting. Now the robocalls are adding to the lack of confidence in our
political system. This is an alarming trend that we must turn around,”
said Mugnatto-Hamu.
In addition, to better engage voters, leaders’ debates should
be taken out of hands of the media consortium and handled by an independent
body that would ensure the inclusion in debates is based on fair rules.
“Above all, Canadians object to unfairness. What we
need to do now is restore Canadians’ faith in our electoral process and take
action to restore fairness and transparency in our elections,” said May.
3.01.2012
2.27.2012
Ex-Conservative has warning
A few months ago I was a card carrying Conservative, serving as a
director on both the Guelph and Kitchener-Center Conservative electoral
district association boards. I succeeded Michael Sona as president of
the University of Guelph Campus Conservatives and I can tell you I
deeply regret all the work I have done for the Conservative Party of
Canada.
They have gone against Canadian
values and have made a joke out of our democracy. I believed I was
working for a cause to bring greater accountability, transparency and
respect for the taxpayer; the result was just the opposite.
Canada is a great nation, built by a
people who value hard work, taking responsibility for one’s actions and
above all honesty. The government that sits in Ottawa values only power
and cannibalizes its own in order to save face.
As someone who has seen what is
talked about in the party, I can only say God help Canada in the next
four years. Because it won’t be the country that veterans, like my
grandfather fought so hard to protect.
Victor Pocaterra, Kitchener
Source: The Toronto Star
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