Daniel Nolan
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The controversial head of a group that advocates against treating natives differently under the law has announced he will be running as an independent in Haldimand-Norfolk in the next federal election.
Gary McHale, 46, president of Canadian Advocates for Charter Equality (CANACE), believes he has a good chance because he's not beholden to any party.
"The average person is not listened to by their MP," the Binbrook resident said yesterday. "If you're a Conservative MP, you do exactly what (Prime Minister Stephen) Harper tells you."
McHale, originally from Richmond Hill, enmeshed himself in the Caledonia land claims dispute due to what he says is two-tier policing. He says the OPP have treated natives differently than non-natives and has led various marches and rallies. He faces a mischief charge from a December rally, and is barred from entering Caledonia, but he believes he can have those bail conditions lifted once an election starts.
The riding is held by Tory cabinet minister Diane Finley. The Liberals have recruited Dr. Eric Hoskins, who worked with such groups as Doctors Without Borders.
Meanwhile, former Hamilton mayor Larry Di Ianni, running for the Liberals in Hamilton East-Stoney Creek, is opening his campaign office Saturday at 11 a.m. at 235 Highway 8, Stoney Creek.
The Burlington Federal Liberal Association is having its nomination meeting Sunday at 4 p.m. at the Burlington Arts Centre. Former MP Paddy Torsney is the only person seeking the nomination.