Good evening, everyone -- It's been an incredible afternoon at Queen's Park
as we witnessed what happens when ordinary people speak up for what's right. The
Standing Committee on General Government voted unanimously late this afternoon
to conduct public hearings across Ontario! (Sound of champagne corks
popping!)
It was revealed that nearly 80 individuals and organizations have asked
to make presentations next week while there are just 24 slots. Clearly the
public pressure and negative press had an influence. The committee voted to
start its road trip after June (when the Legislature rises) and visit much of
the province.
As well, it plans to tour existing aggregate quarries, proposed
quarry sites (Melancthon, here we come!) and sites that are no longer in
operation. MPP Sylvia Jones revealed that an invitation from Honeywood had
already landed on her desk!
The request for extended hearings on the road goes to the three House
Leaders. We were told by one of the committee members that those House Leaders
have been discussing extending the hearings and allowing for travel since Monday
(when this all blew up.) They meet tomorrow, so there could be confirmation as
soon as then.
The two hours of hearings were fascinating. The aggregate industry
presentations had obviously been well-prepared in advance.
One company suggested
the province follow the lead of the federal government and "streamline" the
Environmental Assessment process which did not go over well.
Another
representative complained that an aggregate application advanced to a certain
stage and then "they dropped the Bobolink on us!" Yet another admitted the
industry is self-monitoring but he wants it to stay that way.
Next Monday and Wednesday, the public gets its chance. More details on that
later. For now, we chalk up another victory in this remarkable campaign. Thanks
everyone. We did it.
Cheers, XXXXX
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