Friday, September 30, 2011

Where did everybody go?

The big protest against the Durham-York incinerator, according to a media report had between about 50-100 people.

So why did it ultimately fail to really put a dent in the construction schedule and why does it seem like only a few dozen maximum ever show up at anti-incineration events? There are 80,000 people in Clarington and about 150,000 next door in Oshawa.

Clearly there is no groundswell of opposition to the incinerator and opposition certainly is not growing.

The leaders of the anti-incineration movement need to be held accountable. They talk loudly about democracy and accountability but are any of the major anti-incineration activist groups democratic themselves - who elected them? - and could this be the reason local residents are not supportive?

Arguably, anti-incinerators blew the issue with the tactics they chose. Yes, every voice helps but at some point there needs to be effective tactics beyond the same two dozen protesters.

Clearly the current leadership is unable to "make it happen."

The legal challenge they have launched should be their last kick at the can - if it fails they should resign.

If the case goes forward they will have something to talk about - but I hope they have deep pockets because it's not going to be cheap and they may end up on the hook for damages should they lose.

Here's a letter to the editor I had published in the local paper recently on the incinerator and other important Clarington issues.
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The picture up top is of the new Shopper's Drug Mart going up in Courtice - that's the view northwest at Varcoe and Highway 2. I'll keep you posted on this and other "downtown" activities.
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Next blog I'll look at whether Clarington needs a "Tea Party" to keep an eye on our finances.