“It strikes me as bizarre that when discussing terrorist threats, no scenario is so far-fetched that law enforcement and the public purse should not be engaged to avert miniscule risks.
“But in our day to day lives, more probable and larger risks are ignored because they fall under an area of economic-profitability.” Elizabeth May MP Green Party.
Strikes me as bizarre too, especially as the federal government can’t account for $3.1 billion dollars of its anti-terrorist funding.
Ms. May says the mania against regulation (stream-lining, fast-tracking, industry self-regulation) needs to be replaced with a commitment to public safety and environmental protection. Her comments were triggered by the train disaster in Megantic, Quebec, but the move to deregulate really does affect our daily lives.
Her comments came as Peter Kent, dubbed by many as “Canada’s Worst Environment Minister Ever” was being replaced by Leona Aglukkoq. As minister, Mr. Kent spent as much time getting rid of environmental safeguards as he did protecting the environment, accused tar sands opponents of treason and called environmentalists “eco-terrorists.” Like disgraced senators Mike Duffey and Pamela Wallin, Mr. Kent was formerly a well-known journalist. An interesting trio.
The last time around, the fate of the Prosperity Mine rested with Environment Minister Jim Prentice, who rejected it. Now its up to Ms. Aglukkoq.
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Coun. Danica Hughes, has taken on the task of co-ordinating plans for the city’s 85th birthday next year. Why celebrate the 85th? Why not? It will be a reason for local groups to work together to show the world, well, maybe just the province, that we are a city to be proud of.
The next planning meeting is Monday, July 29, 6 p.m., Rick Hansen Room at city hall. Everyone is welcome. Bring your ideas.
Diana French is a former Tribune editor, local author, and teacher.