The plan of attack for those disgusted with the province’s plan to close jails in Owen Sound and Walkerton is loosely coming together.
The Owen Sound Council Chambers was full of people on Wednesday night who brought ideas, but no firm agreement yet on the best course of action.
We know Brockton Council is footing a hefty bill to send a rally bus and a 6 thousand name petition to the Ontario Legislature on May 31st.
At last night’s meeting, some suggested May 31st may be too late.
There were whispers of a bus rally on May 18th, but that has yet to be confirmed.
OPSEU Campaigns and Communications Officer Greg Hamara says its an awfully big lawn at Queen’s Park and without hundreds or thousands rallying, it can be overlooked as just another tour bus coming through town.
Hamara impresses the importance of calling, mailing and emailing Huron Bruce Liberal MPP Carol Mitchell and her office number number is (519) 396-3007.
Owen Sound Mayor Deb Haswell says figuring out the best way to make some real noise is key, but add’s they’re on the right track.
Meantime, Grey Criminal Lawyers Association President Clayton Conlan thinks the Province’s move is going to open a legal door for a challenge under the “Charter of Right’s and Freedom’s,” based on unequal treatment.
He says if those housed in Penetanguishene get a lawyer from that area, Legal Aid is not going to pay for them to travel to Owen Sound for every appearance, and vice versa.
Conlan says it will all have to be done over the phone and then some crafty lawyer is going to argue that’s unequal treatment.
Owen Sound Acting Police Chief Bill Sornberger also spoke at the meeting saying the move means an extra 15 to 25 thousand dollars out of their budget right off the hop.
