Recently, the OPP created headlines by claiming they are now patrolling the overpass area in Caledonia. We applaud them for this, but the public should be aware that this proactive approach to public safety has only occurred because we announced a rally at the Cayuga police station for this Friday at 10 a. m. to force the OPP to "Protect our Families."
For two full years, the OPP did nothing to ensure the safety of people traveling by these overpasses. Haldimand Mayor Marie Trainer and I were on CHCH-TV back in early August 2006 reporting that vehicles were being damaged by rocks and metal objects being thrown from the overpass.
It took the OPP almost a full year to issue a press release warning the public and, in that time, numerous vehicles had objects come through the windshield.
On Sept. 6, 2006 the Regional News reported that one couple were driving through this area and a rock came through their windshield. The driver ran and caught the native people who committed the crime while the wife spoke to the OPP stationed nearby watching the whole incident. She asked why they didn't do anything and was told OPP are not allowed on "that" side of the bridge.
So why are we now, two years later, still waiting for the OPP to protect the public when Commissioner Julian Fantino claims their job is to ensure public safety? The answer is simple. Unless the public gets directly involved to bring media attention to an issue, the OPP will do nothing because of political correctness.
That is what our rallies have done and continue to do. We need the public to help by joining in to apply pressure on the government and the OPP. Must we wait until someone dies before average people will act to ensure their own safety? Must there be more Sam Gaultieris before people take a stand?
Join us at the Cayuga police station this Friday at 10 a. m.
Gary McHale Executive Director
CANACE (Canadian Advocates for Charter Equality)