 By Staff
March 23rd, 2025
BURLINGTON, ON
Canada’s election security task force expected to be more vocal about possible foreign interference
A group of senior government bureaucrats tasked with warning the Canadian public about possible foreign interference during an election may be more vocal and less secretive in the upcoming campaign.
The Security Intelligence Threats to Elections Task Force has been in place since the 2019 federal election and gathers the country’s national security agencies together to focus on identifying potential foreign interference.
The task force reports to what is called the “panel of five,” which includes the clerk of the Privy Council, the prime minister’s national security adviser and the deputy ministers of justice, foreign affairs and public safety. It’s these senior government officials who decide whether to go public with a warning to Canadians about possible interference, but they have used a high standard in past campaigns and only made public statements if they believe something “threatens Canada’s ability to have a free and fair election.”
Despite concerns about potential interference in individual ridings in the 2021 election, the panel never went public with any concerns in either that campaign or the 2019 race.
But a new guidance document from Privy Council clerk John Hannaford argues they may have to be more vocal this time. Hannaford wrote the new proposal in January and it opens up the possibility of more announcements.
With this country set for an election campaign to begin on Sunday, it’s a cross-border crisis, fight and decision Canadians will be forced to confront once again, 134 years later.
And, once again, the whims and will of Washington loom over Canadian politics. But this time there are much greater abilities to sway or swing the outcome.
 Trump and his 51st state grin. President Trump has already involved himself in the is election. Trump claimed on Friday that he “totally changed” Canada’s political landscape ahead of the coming federal election — one that will play out against the backdrop of American economic aggression and Trump’s repeatedly stated desire to annex the country.
In his latest foray into Canadian affairs, Trump took credit for the resurrection of the federal Liberal party’s electoral fortunes, days before Prime Minister Mark Carney is expected to trigger a snap national campaign that all parties were buzzing Friday to prepare for in Ottawa.
“Just a little while ago, before I got involved and totally changed the election — which I don’t care about … the Conservative was leading,” Trump told reporters Friday at the White House.
There is going to be much more interference; we are going to have to learn to recognize it and see it for what is it. Our existence as a country depends on it.
 By Pepper Parr
March 23rd, 2025
BURLINGTON, ON
 Current polls have Gould as “leaning”. And they are off.
The Governor General accepted Prime Minister Carney’s request and dissolved Parliament and issued writs for an election that will take place April 28th, one day short of the absolute minimum amount of time for a federal election.
Set out below is data on where the parties stand if the voter were to take place today.
What is interesting is the hold that Karina Gould does not appear to have on the Burlington seat. They were ranked safe, likely, toss up and leaning Gould is listed as leaning at this point.
Seats by party
These are very early stage numbers that will undoubtedly change.
 By Ray Rivers
March 23, 2025
BURLINGTON, ON
“There is no baby without a mother, no Sideshow Bob without a Bart, and no Pierre without a Justin. It was all Destrudeau, and Mr. Trudeau has left the building. I guess that’s why Pierre Poilievre seems – well – broken”. (JILLIAN HORTON SPECIAL TO THE GLOBE AND MAIL MARCH 14, 2025)
 Canadians are experiencing something akin to buyers’ remorse, and are deserting the Tory leader instead. Pierre Poilievre has lost his mojo. Over the last two years he has broadcast how badly Canada is broken and how it’s all Justin Trudeau’s fault. But times have changed, and now is not the time to tell Canadians that their country is broken, even if that were true – which it’s not.
Second this rant that Trudeau must resign and kill carbon pricing – a tax that benefited lower income Canadians – is somehow the scourge driving up prices of everything, has worked. So now, that old adage “be careful what you wish for” has come around to bite the pretender to the throne. Trudeau and the consumer carbon tax are no more.
But rather than piling on gratitude, Canadians are experiencing something akin to buyers’ remorse, and are deserting the Tory leader instead. So our Pierre Poilievre is left wondering what to do given that the emperor’s new clothes have left him naked. Well here are some suggestions:
- Stop being so nasty, so angry – such an attack dog. End the negativity and the ad hominem ads and personal attacks. Those tactics, though disgusting, may have been effective when you were the opposition leader. They worked to alter how Trudeau was seen, his credibility, and the public trust in the sitting PM. But also remember how those kinds of nasty ads worked for Kim Campbell.
- Promise not to deprive Canada of our national and time-honoured broadcaster, the CBC. At few times in our history was a national news media as critical for this country. Canadians deserve to be better informed than what they’ll get with alternatives like social media, or worse yet, fringe media like Rebel. Don’t follow the example of the US president, who has excluded major news media from his news briefings simply because he doesn’t like what they report.
- Show Canadians that you actually have an organized plan to govern. What are your plans for the economy and the environment? It’s not enough to be opposed to carbon pricing and emission caps without offering a fully costed alternative. Explain how your the notion of even more business subsidies to reduce greenhouse gases will work, and how it would impact your other goal of slashing the deficit. How would your plan to respond to US tariffs differ from what is currently being prosecuted?
- Be clear about your intentions regarding our newly acquired additions to the social safety net. Would programs you once mostly opposed in opposition – like child care, pharmacare and dental care – be on the chopping block?
- Clarify whether you are really going to fire the Bank of Canada governor as you once promised to do? And clarify if you are serious about making bitcoin cryptocurrencies an alternate official currency, thus making Canada the ‘blockchain capital of the world’ as you had once promised? Can you explain how crypto would make Canadians’ lives better?
 Poilievre is articulate and a compelling opposition spokesperson for his party. These are troubled days and Canadians are looking for unity and purpose in a leader, not more divisiveness and negativity. Poilievre is articulate and a compelling opposition spokesperson for his party. But as leader of his party in a moment of national crisis, he isn’t telling us what we need to hear. Rather he just repeats the same tired old meme – that he will fight for Canada – or stand up for Canada – or some other flag waving meaningless platitude. And this is not the time for platitudes.
Mr. Poilievre has been caught off guard by his own success, that is true. But nothing is more important to voters than a road map telling us how he’ll keep the country and its economy secure. In this time of insecurity Canadians are not likely to elect a man without a plan? Or was the man who has spent his entire life planning to be PM just a one trick pony – the axe-the-tax man.
Seriously, the carbon tax has been axed, give it a rest. Mr. Trudeau your chief political opponent has left the building. And you have nothing new to say? One has to ask, is there really no Pierre without a Justin?
 Ray Rivers, a Gazette Contributing Editor, writes regularly applying his more than 25 years as a federal bureaucrat to his thinking. Rivers was once a candidate for provincial office in Burlington. He was the founder of the Burlington citizen committee on sustainability at a time when climate warming was a hotly debated subject. Ray has a post graduate degree in economics that he earned at the University of Ottawa. Tweet @rayzrivers
Background links:
No Pierre without Justin – Now What – Conservatives Media Access –
BlockChain Capital – Rebel News – Subsidy- Right Wing Media – Industrial Carbon Pricing –
 By Staff
March 22, 2025
BURLINGTON, ON
On May 8, 1945 – Victory in Europe (VE) – British Prime Minister Winston Churchill took to the airwaves to announce the official end to hostilities in Europe and declared, “This is your victory! It is the victory of the cause of freedom in every land. In all our long history we have never seen a greater day than this.” Jubilant crowds took to the streets in Canada and abroad to celebrate!
TODAY, we look back and continue the celebration with Three Cheers for 80 Years. Enjoy an evening out starting with a retro-themed buffet meal and then be prepared to be entertained by an engaging and highly energetic performance by the Celtic band, The Devil’s Brigade.
 The Devil’s Brigade have mastered the art of creating an immediate connection with audiences. They are known for their epic, multi-instrumental sound that crosses the musical landscape to include jigs, reels, hornpipes, ballads, originals, covers, soundtracks, patriotic and military music, Irish foot-stompers and more. Continue reading Victory in Europe to be celebrated at the Warplane Museum
 By Staff
March 22nd, 2025
BURLINGTON, ON
 A really good photograph; great composition. If you know who took it – let us know. The photographer deserves a photo credit. The Pier.
It has a storied history.
It cost almost twice as much as originally intended but in hindsight – that doesn’t matter.
It is now very much a part of the city and at times it is beautiful to look at.
A reader sent us this one. Enjoy
 By Pepper Parr
March 22, 2025
BURLINGTON, ON
It has been a long time coming.
The City started looking into doing something with the patch of a park at the bottom of Guelph Line in 2020
The graphics made available to the public make it look a lot bigger than it is.
 The park is really very small; – this graphic makes it appear to be much bigger than it is. In its day the park actually was a port through which boatloads of timber were shipped to American cities across the lake.
There hasn’t been much published about the Port; some suggest that pilings probably exist below the waterline.
Dianne Gaudar has been working on a book about the Port and its history – her efforts have resulted in some archeology signage in the park when it is completed. As for the Gaudar book – see it as a work in progress.
 There was a time when there was a small community on what was then Water Street. There was a small coach service int0 the communties to the east and te west and a local store that sold provisions.
Bruce Leigh writes that: “Back in mid 2019 Roseland resident Diane Gaudar has written or is in the process of writing a book on the history of Port Nelson. She has many photographs, copies of old maps etc., which show the location of the pier/wharf. She had sought City help &/or funding for an archeological investigation of the site. I suspect there are remnants of the wharf still in the water. Back then Lakeshore Road was known as Water Street. If the park is to be developed or whatever, it would appear to be a great time to undertake such an archeological or historical survey of the site.
 When the city hires a design group they get a lot of detail. In this image you can get a sense as to how creative they can get. At times the city buys into some of the ideas.
 By Staff
March 22nd, 2025
BURLINGTON, ON
The City of Burlington invites residents to the Spring Telephone Town Hall on Tuesday, April 8, at 7 p.m.
This virtual gathering is a unique opportunity to hear firsthand about local initiatives, upcoming projects, and the key services that support our community’s day-to-day lives. With the convenience of joining from home, residents can engage in a dialogue about the issues that matter most to them.
 Mayor Meed Ward answering some questions during her State of the City address earlier this year. During the Telephone Town Hall, City Council members will be available to answer questions about current community topics and share their insights into ongoing efforts to enhance local programs and services. The event is designed to encourage active participation, allowing residents to ask questions and interact directly with Council representatives.
By participating in this Telephone Town Hall, residents can stay informed about how decisions are made, better understand how resources are allocated, and contribute valuable input to help keep Burlington a thriving, vibrant community.
What the event isn’t – is a democratic process where the Mayor and the Council members make themselves available to media where they can answer questions.
Questions asked during the Town Hall the Mayor plans are filtered THEY decide who will get to ask and question and who will actually answer the question.
This is a controlled event – understand that if you choose to take part.
Mayor Meed Ward describes herself as a journalist. She did study journalism at Carleton University in Ottawa but has never worked as a reporter. She has worked as an editor of a magazine. Her strength is doing TV interviews and serving on panel discussions.
As Mayor she has yet to hold a media scrum where all media take part. In the past she has appeared on CHCH TV where they ask nothing but puff ball questions. This isn’t media and the Mayor knows it
How to participate
Date & time: Tuesday, April 8, 2025, at 7 p.m.
Random call list: Residential Burlington phone numbers are randomly selected to receive a call when the event starts.
Opt in/out: If you would like to ensure you are called—or if you do not wish to be called—please email getinvolved@burlington.ca by 12 p.m. (noon) on April 7. If you have already made a similar request for past Telephone Town Halls, your preference remains on file.
Missed the call? If you do not receive the call or are unable to answer at 7 p.m., you can still join the event by dialing 1-800-804-0738 at any point during the Town Hall. Due to high call volumes, please be patient if you do not connect immediately.
Submit your questions: Ask your questions live during the event or in advance. To submit a question in advance of the event, please complete this brief survey by 4 p.m. on Thursday, April 3.
For more information, visit getinvolvedburlington.ca/telephonetownhall.
Burlington is a city where people, nature and business thrive. Sign up to learn more about Burlington at and follow @CityBurlington on social media.
Information about the Spring Telephone Town Hall is available on getinvolvedburlington.ca/telephonetownhall.
 By Staff
March 21st, 2015
BURLINGTON, ON
Burlington Sports Hall of Fame – Class of 2025
Les Bell: Builder – Burlington Men’s Soccer
- Key player for the Burlington Soccer Executive Committee on/ off for 23 years
- President for 15 years
- Developed Men’s Soccer to 84 teams; over 1500 players in competitive and recreational divisions
- Negotiated the merger of the Burlington Soccer Club with BYSC – “Club for all Ages”
- Co- Established the “Ken Bradwell” Soccer Tournament, raising over $114k supporting local hospitals
- Awarded the Queen’s Jubilee Medal in 2022
- Dedicated over 35 years as a volunteer for the Burlington Soccer Club
Terry Martin: Athlete – Men’s Volleyball
- Graduate – Nelson High School and Dalhousie University
- AUAA & CIAU – Rookie of the Year; 4 x AUAA All-star, 2 x AUAA Player of the Year; 2 x CIAU 1st team All Canadian
- Recipient of Climo Award as Dalhousie’s Male Athlete of the Year & Co- MVP
- 2 x National Championship All-Star
- Led Canada’s first Team to Gold Medal AFIC
- Represented Canada at the World University Games; Three World Cup Events; 2 World Cups and 1 FIVB World Championships.
- 16 year Professional Career in Europe – France, Italy, Puerto Rico, Russia, Poland, Cyprus and Qatar; member of FISU (International University Sports Federation)
Dave Nelson: Builder – Touch Football
- Men’s Touch Football: Vice President (’73-’77), President (’78-’79)
- Co-founder & President of the Golden Horseshoe Touch Football Association (GHTFA) since 1980; 45th year as President
- 52 years as Chair/Organizer of 100+ Touch Football Tournaments locally & internationally (Canada, USA, and Australia) including 2 World Championships.
- Extensively involved with Boys & Girls Basketball as a Coach for over 36 years
- Current organizer of the Larry Hodgson Memorial Golf Tournament, raising over $100k for City Kidz
- Current Member of Touch Football Ontario Board of Directors
- Past President Touch Football Ontario (1986-2002); Former Vice-President Federation of International Touch (1986-2000)
- Recipient: A.J. Dunn award (1982); Government of Ontario- Football Special Achievement (1988); Elected to the Golden Horseshoe Touch Football Association Hall of Fame (2001)
- Awarded Governor Generals Sovereign Medal for Volunteers (2019)
Brandon Wagner: Athlete – Wheelchair Basketball
- Graduate – Aldershot High School; Sport Management University of Illinois
- Began his career with Burlington Vipers Basketball in 2002
- Team member; Men’s U23 National team (2005)
- Parapan Games: Rio De Janeiro -Silver medal (2007); Guadalajara, Mexico – Bronze medal (2011)
- University of Illinois Collegiate Champion (2008); Student Athlete of the Year (2009)
- Member Senior Men’s National Team (2009)
- Paralympic Games ~ London, England; Gold Medal (2012)
- Recipient: Queen Elizabeth ll Diamond Jubilee Medal (2013); BSA Male Parasport Athlete of the Year (2013); Inducted to Vipers Hall of Fame
- Torchbearer Toronto Parapan AM Games(2015)
Kathryn (Katy) Williams: Athlete – Field Hockey
- Graduate – Notre Dame High School & Team Captain (2006 – 2008)
- 3 x OUA Champion (2008,2009, 2011) & OUA All-Star (2013)
- Team Ontario Player & Captain (2007-2014)
- Canadian Women’s Indoor Field Hockey Goalkeeper & Captain (2008 – 2001)
- Indoor Pan Am Cup Champion (Uruguay 2015); Silver Medalist (USA 2021) & Elite Team member (2017 & 2021)
- Australian Hockey League Silver Medalist; Premier League All-Star Team; Essendon Bombers- Best & Fairest (2015)
- Team Ontario: Goalkeeper Coach (2020-2022)
- Current Assistant Coach: McMaster Marauders Field Hockey Team
- Volunteer Firefighter, Kilbride – Burlington Fire Department
Don Green Award of Distinction – 2023 Burlington Blaze JR A Lacrosse Team
- Minto Cup National Champions – winning all 5 games for the first time in franchise history, the Burlington Blaze are Minto Cup champions (2023). This was accomplished by Burlington advancing to the finals against the Orangeville Northmen who had a record setting unbeaten run in the season and provincial finals until they met Burlington in the provincial championships. The Minto cup is rarely won by a team participating in their first Minto Cup, which the Burlington Blaze accomplished by running their own perfect record (5-0) at the Minto Cup beating the Coquitlam Adanacs.
- Coach – Dan MacRae; Team Manager – Sean Gillies
 By Pepper Parr
March 21, 2025
BURLINGTON, ON
At the start of each Council meeting the Mayor asks a couple of questions. The first is are there any conflicts of interest that have pecuniary impact?.
Then the Mayor gets into the agenda and sets out how long the meeting is expected to last. She then asks if any of the Council members have a hard stop requirement.
When discussions are taking place it is difficult to determine beforehand how long they will run. The Mayor does try to accommodate the needs of different council members.
We want to suggest that the Mayor has this backwards. The dates for Council meetings are known. Council members know and one would think they would organize their time to ensure that they are available to do their jobs.
It is not unusual for a council member to say they have a commitment elsewhere.
 Ward 3 Councillor, ward 2 resident Rory Nisan at a United Nations meeting. These men and women were elected to serve as a council and to be in the room. Councillor Nisan manages to attend Federation of Canadian Municipalities and cover Council at the same time. Does FCM pay Nisan? The City certainly does.
 Councillor – often somewhere else – just not in the Council Chamber. Sharman is consistent – he will on occasion use an event elsewhere so he doesn’t have to be at Council – allowing him to avoid an item on the agenda?
Councillor Galbraith and Bentivegna are good in terms of attendance.
Councillor Kearns has, on occasion, had to deal with a family problem – she has young children and they come first. People understand that.
The Mayor has on a few occasions had to excuse herself – again for family matters.
Those situations are fully understandable – what doesn’t appear to be fully understood by this Council is that they were elected to be Councillors and to serve.
While they aren’t “handsomely” paid, most are earning more than they have ever earned before. Sharman would be the exception – and perhaps Galbraith.
Kearns could earn quite a bit more in the private sector but chooses to be a public servant with her eye on the Chain of Office.
It’s called accountability ladies and gentleman – live up to it.
Salt with Pepper is an opinion column reflecting the observations and musings of the publisher of the Gazette, an on-line newspaper that is in its 12th year as a news source in Burlington and is a member of the National Newsmedia Council.
 Full Council? Not quite. Councillor Nisan was elsewhere.
 By Staff
March 20th, 2025
BURLINGTON, ON
The Burlington Agricultural and Rural Affairs Advisory Committee spoke to Council earlier this week about what they felt was a critical issue – the future of Burlington’s rural area.
 This is the Escarpment: Our country, our rural country – forever. Vincent Sowa outlined the urgent need for resourcing and strategic planning for a rural community. “I want to be clear, this isn’t just about what I’m here to do today isn’t just about agriculture or the rural North, this is about Burlington’s economic resilience, sustainability and food security. There’s a challenge before us. You know, we’re at a crossroads. We are faced with a future in the rural area that is either a patchwork of large estates or is a vibrant mix of land uses that supports a growing urban demand for public access, connection to nature and agriculture.
“You know, up here in the North we’re facing a couple of mounting pressures. You’re all familiar with, Bill 23 and that has shifted key responsibilities from the region to the city, without a clear road map or adequate resourcing, the farmers and rural businesses up here lack the economic support they need to remain competitive.
 Residents look at a large map of their community during a Rural Summit That meeting was the genesis of making the Mt Nemo Plateau a Conservation Heritage District. “Unlike the BIA is in the city, our infrastructure is failing. Rural broadband is inadequate. Many areas still in the north, roads and drain and systems are insufficient. If you saw the damage on Guelph flying just over the last couple of days, you’d be well aware of what I’m talking about.
“And frequent power outages disrupt operations and destroy expensive equipment. Multiple residents will talk about sub pumps and pieces of equipment that are when hydro goes out due to lack of kind of infrastructure management causes economic hardship.
“Agriculture, generally, is overlooked in economic and urban planning, even though it’s a vital part of Burlington’s economy identity and fight against carbon and so without dedicated action, we risk losing not only valuable farmland, but also the businesses and families that sustain it. There is good news, and as I outlined, we outlined in the presentation that went to the Committee of the Whole there is a momentum to build the Burlington agricultural plan, which provides concrete, actionable solutions to support our rural area. But we need your leadership to expedite, move it forward and make it a priority amongst the staff for the city.
“As a committee, we’re asking for four key commitments.
First is a review, a review of the Terms of Reference, to ensure it aligns with the added responsibilities in a post Bill 23 world to include a representative from Burlington Economic Development.
Second, a dedicated role within the city focused on rural economic development as the loss of regional support means Burlington needs its own strategy to drive agricultural growth and investment.
Thirdly, a rural infrastructure strategy that one that prioritizes broadband access, road and drainage improvements and a reliable energy service to keep the rural economy strong.
Fourth: a campaign to address public awareness so that agriculture is properly represented in Burlington’s long term planning and Economic Development Strategies.
 Vincent Sowa: Chair Rural Advisory Committee “There is a cost, you know, we feel to inaction. The stakes are high if we don’t act now, so we risk losing agricultural businesses that contribute to Burlington economy, weakening our food security and climate resilience in our region, and missing the opportunity to be a leader in rural, urban economic integration. We have a fantastic opportunity to lead the country, given Burlington’s unique position as having a strong urban area with a strong kind of rural area, and can be one of the best cities in Canada and indeed, in North America.
“It’s not just about protecting farmland, it’s about ensuring Burlington’s agricultural sector thrives, innovates, and remains a key pillar of our city’s future. So Mayor, Members of Council, we have a choice before us. You know, we can react to the challenges facing our rural community, or we can lead it. We do have solutions. They are in front of us, and the need is urgent, so I urge you to prioritize and take action to prioritize this work.”
Councillor Galbraith wanted to know “If you had any communications with staff surrounding the duties being downloaded post Bill 23
Sowa: Kelly Cook is on our Advisory Council, and so we do liaise directly with her. And a lot of this was co developed; this was not just developed through the citizen group. A lot of those recommendations were taken from Halton – as you know they were downloaded to the city that formed, kind of the foundation that we built those from
 Galbraith: Any idea when the Burlington agricultural action plan is due to be approved?
Sowa: I thought I might get that question, Councilor, and I would go back to actually you and the staff, because we don’t, we don’t have clarity. I think that is one reason I’m here today.
Councillor Bentivegna: As you know, tourism and be EDC has merged. I think this is a perfect opportunity and I would encourage you to find out a little bit more about that – we’d be certainly here to help you.
My question has to do with you mentioned in in the delegation,xxx
ROMA (Rural Ontario Municipal Association) like you’d like to get a representative to go out to Roma, I’m assuming you’re in committee budget process, or maybe you’ve already done it. I don’t know. All the committees now have a pooled budget, so money is available there, and I’m sure your your councilor rep, and I would certainly be willing to help out there. You can join us anytime. I’m sure we’d appreciate that. That’d be great. So please reach out for that. I know I haven’t had my question yet. So of all the information that you’ve given us, and you’ve given us a lot, we will ask questions to staff. What is the major focus here for rural Yeah,
Sowa: If I could sum it up in one sentence, it’s a strategy for the North, right? And if we had a strategy for the North. And so whether the vision up here is, you know, just housing, and then that is the vision, then let’s just state that that’s what it is. If the vision is mixed use with, you know, a vibrant economy, then let’s state that I really think that’s where it starts. Councilor, and from there, all the other questions could be answered.
Galbraith: Can Curt Benson help us with a path forward. There’s obviously concerns from the agricultural community with with all the bill 23 changes to the region, and just wondering how the city is planning to to move forward and handle the additional duties.
Curt Benson: It is important that staff provide council with an update on the full range of planning responsibilities that were being transferred from the region to the city. We’re quite pleased that our advisory committee dealing with matters on agriculture, has identified this as an opportunity.
I think I agree with some of the comments from council that we need to work in partnership with Economic Development to decide how the city is going to fill the gap introduced by the transition of these responsibilities from the region. We’re going to work actively with members of the committee – they’ve dedicated a lot of hours to into the documents that you have in the delegation materials. We want to harness that passion and come back to council with a little bit more clarity in terms of how we see or how we recommend addressing the gap fully. It may be that there are some resources that we’ll have to dedicate to advancing the agricultural action plan, but we are well on our way to scoping that and moving that forward. Look for an update from from us in short order in terms of how we’re going to address some of these things. But know that it’s, it’s very much on our list that that we need to get to along with some of the other gaps that were identified in that report.
Galbraith: On the timeline for that agricultural action plan?
 Benson: We could probably be back with some information in a couple months. Just to give you an idea of how we’re addressing that, we’ll work closely with the committee to make sure that they’re aligned and supporting kind of the recommendation coming forward. It may be that they identify for us, it’s, I think it’s important to get the what nailed down before we talk a little bit about supports and resources. We need to really understand to what degree are the terms of reference of the committee, to what degree is that going to evolve over time? What are we looking at in terms of specific actions and recommendations coming out of the action plan ? All of those things may define how this council wants to invest in in agriculture and addressing some of the concerns and the opportunities that were identified by the committee, but leave that with us and and we’ll be back before you in a couple of months with an update. Okay?
Councillor Bentivegna: Let’s start with the delegation – they sent out some information regarding agencies that they used to go to through the region and learned from them about food security standpoint, distribution of products and and part of the tourism agriculture section. I’m assuming Burlington is not alone in this. I mean, the other three municipalities are probably in the same situation, and through this report, is it possible to somehow communicate with these other municipalities to see how we can manage it collectively? Because there’s so many things involved here, we’re talking about number of households, potential opportunities as a group, and when it’s all said – how we can grow the economic development portion of it, because I think that’s very, very important. And then lastly, in the report, will we see options or opportunities to get funding? I mean, we got all this downloaded from the region, and as the mayor would say, when we talk about the federal, provincial and municipal – maybe there’s some some grant money that we can talk about, or you can talk about, that are opportunities that we can get from a resource standpoint.
Benson: On the first point, absolutely, we know agricultural resources and systems, which include a broader network of facilities that are dedicated to food and food security, they transcend municipal boundaries. So we actually have to have our eyes on how all the Halton municipalities, how the broader, greater Golden Horseshoe is addressing some of these challenges and and so as a part of the report back, would be happy to identify opportunities for those types of collaborations. I would say on your second point, you know, from a funding and resourcing perspective, you’re right. We can’t do it alone. This burden shouldn’t be put on the city; It’s a, bigger issue. How do we set ourselves up for funding opportunities in the future for senior levels of government, it’s going to be important part of our our overall strategy.
Nothing was determined – but at least there is a start. Interesting that the push had to come form the Advisory Committee level.
By Staff
March 19th, 2025
BURLINGTON, ON
Premier Doug Ford unveiled his cabinet
“As Ontario faces one of the greatest challenges in our history, workers and families are counting on us to stand up for their jobs and well being,” said Premier Doug Ford. “Our government will double down on our plan to build, train and re skill workers for better jobs and bigger paycheques, tear down internal trade barriers, retool companies for new customers in new markets, attract more investments and cut through red tape to develop our vast natural resources, including critical minerals in the Ring of Fire. No matter what, we will protect Ontario.”
 Paul Calandra, Minister of Education Ontario has the worst housing construction record than any other province in the country.
Ontario’s new Executive Council is as follows:
To effectively deliver on its plan to protect Ontario, the government is also making changes to certain ministries’ areas of authority and responsibilities:
- The Minister of the Environment, Conservation and Parks will now have responsibility over conservation authorities
- The Minister of Energy and Mines and the Associate Minister of Energy-Intensive Industries will now have responsibility over broadband expansion and connectivity
To be noted: Paul Calandra no longer runs Municipal Affairs and Steve Clarke, the man who ran Municipal Affairs when all those fuzzy land deals were made is not in Cabinet. Neither is Natalie Pierre.
Zee Hamid, Associate Minister of Auto Theft and Bail Reform serves the riding that is home to the Maplehurst Correctional Complex
By Pepper Parr
March 19th, 2025
BURLINGTON, ON
The issue before Council was to decide if 518 Brant should be designated as a heritage property.
The Staff reported recommended doing so; designate 518 Brant Street as a Heritage property.
 518 Brant was one of a number of properties that were part of a study on heritage hone in the city. That wasn’t what the property owner wants. He hired his own Heritage Consultant whose opinion differed with the Heritage Consultant the city had hired
Voting on the decision to designate was not unanimous; Councillors Paul Sharman and Angelo Bentivegna vote against. Bentivegna was looking for some way to find a solution.
 Councillor Sharman has always been opposed to the designation of property against the wishes of the owner. Sharman was dead set against doing something to a personal property without the consent of the owner.
The Gazette will be circling back to the issue with a multi-part feature on just what the city is trying to do with designations.
The last the public knew was that the property owner was going to appeal the city decision to the Ontario Land Tribunal – the cost to the property owner will be considerable. The city will pay for the lawyer they hire.
During the discussion it was mentioned that some “supplemental information provided to council on this item” but nothing about that information was made public.
Sharman said: “You know, with respect to dueling heritage consultants between the owner of a property and the cities, there seems to be some difference … I guess is a problem, but as is always the case. I’m always worried when a homeowner’s land is designated – and that has implications that they don’t want and they don’t want to do that, so I will not be supporting this.”
Councillor Bentivegna said: “This is a very touchy situation, and as I mentioned at the committee meeting, both the homeowner and staff and committee have done their homework and did their due diligence, and they did it all in good faith. In both situations both came up with different results. And that’s where my concern is. I think I said if this were a baseball game – where there’s a tie and a base the runner wins. I feel because the homeowner did their homework and spent thousands of dollars. His only option now is the OLT, which would be significantly more money for lawyers and consultants.
I am assuming we all received an email from someone who suggested that perhaps there’s another way to sit down and get this straightened away, which would be a third party of some sort. Maybe I should have asked that question earlier, but just throw it in somebody’s head. This is a, could be a life altering business decision here, depending which way it goes. I know I’m not going to support this.
 I assume you would want to refer it back to staff with a direction to see if further discussions could bring parties closer together. Mayor advises Bentivegna that “ if you want to refer this, you need a motion and a seconder to refer it back to staff. You could put that on the floor, that would take priority over this. We would have a vote on the referral, and I assume you would want to refer it back to staff with a direction to see if further discussions could bring parties closer together. But really the motion would be a referral to staff. So if you wish, I will cede the floor to you. If you wish to move that, and I would look to a seconder.
Councillor Sharman may want to second that I’d be glad to do that.
Does anyone wish to second that? No? So it is not on the floor so, so we will then deal with the main motion. We are still in comments. Are there any comments from anyone else on this item?
Councillor Kearns: “This has been a contentious file in relation to heritage. We often do have a divided Council on heritage. We’ve heard comments where certain councillors stand on the matter. I’m oftentimes the deciding vote in this case, I know I don’t have the votes to change the course of the staff recommendation.
 Kearns: I am very empathetic to the owner. “Recognizing this is kind of the first time we’ve come into a situation where a property owner has engaged their own consultancy to make a determination on their part of where their heritage planner identifies the heritage attributes, and then we hold that up against our very capable staff’s work that they do also through consultancy and through their designations and expertise. This this is a unique file, which will likely pass, which is why I wouldn’t support Councillor Bentivegna’s opportunity to refer it back to staff, because I don’t think we will uncover new information that will change, change the weight of the sway of the votes that are already identified through committee.
“I am very empathetic to the owner. I will also remind any third parties that if you’re positioning a commentary to a Councillor that is in fact lobbying, if it is going to have a financial implication on the decision of the vote. So anyone that chooses to do that make sure you’re using the lobbyist registry.
 It comes down to the good of one versus the good of many, and I believe that this council has shown a balanced approach when it comes to choosing which properties we need to designate or would wish to designate and those that we’re willing to let go for valid reasons. Councillor Stolte: I agree with majority of the comments; I just want to provide a tiny bit of perspective, just to make sure we, anyone who’s listening, understands that this council has a pretty balanced perspective, and that this council and staff do not seek to designate at all costs. There’s plenty of properties, including on Brant Street, on either side of this property, that the majority of council may have liked to have designated. I acknowledge there’s a difference of opinion. It comes down to the good of one versus the good of many, and I believe that this council has shown a balanced approach when it comes to choosing which properties we need to designate or would wish to designate and those that we’re willing to let go for valid reasons.
Mayor Meed Ward: I want to thank everyone who has spoken to this item, especially Councillor Sharman and Bentivegna for respectfully bringing forward their perspective. It is really important for that view to be heard in our chambers.
That being said, I do support the staff recommendation that is before us. I know that we have tried as a council and perhaps there are additional ways that we can try to incentivize and help people who have their properties designated. We did do that with our property tax rebate.
Is there a way for us to enhance that? That’s an open question, and I think, a good conversation to have, because, you know, we don’t want to unduly burden people who are in designated properties. We want to do what we can to help them, the same way with that we’ve recently done with our tree by law, by by providing grants to property owners who have large trees on their private property to help them with those costs.
Councillor Kearns: I think, recognizing the diversity of opinions. The issue is not so much in the carrying costs or the operational cost of the heritage, which is where the tax rebate comes in. The concern that I have heard from property owners, and I respect coming from the property owners, is around the investment that they’ve made in the real estate and not being able to sell it for their future profits. So that is really the challenge; helping people year to year. The challenge is people have invested not having a designation, and then they will divest with a designation. So I just want to recognize the people, the individual property owners, that may be experiencing that situation; we do not have tools to help you in that regard.
Over to the clerk for the recorded vote: five in favour and two opposed.
The property owner can, if he chooses, take the matter to the Ontario Land Tribunal
 By Staff
March 18th, 2025
BURLINGTON, ON
In a media release, Burlington MP Karina Gould said “We are proud Canadians, and I am proud of how we have stood together strong and united.
Show Donald Trump you are proud of this beautiful country we call home, and that we will never be the 51st state.
I invite you to visit my office by Friday to pick up Canadian flags and pins.
We have large flags, small paper flags and Canada pins available while supplies last.
First come, first served.
Where: 777 Guelph Line, Unit 209 (Burlington Centre)
When: Tuesday until Friday, March 21st from 9:30 AM to 4:30 PM
Canadians have often gone over the top when it comes to showing their flag.
 The Canadian flag passed from hand to hand during the vote to seperate Quebec from Canada.  The Canadian flag stretched out over the Rideau Canal in Ottawa.  Flags on the lawn outside a cemetery in Hamilton.
 By Tom Parkin
March 18th, 2025
BURLINGTON, ON
After the unchecked speculation peak in 2022, a new marketplace stand-off has builders refusing to build while buyers refuse to pay. We’ll see who blinks.
 John Maynard Keynes’ sarcastic quip that “markets can remain irrational longer than you can remain solvent” appears to have a new twist in the Ontario housing market, three years after unchecked speculation led to soaring prices then market implosion.
Buyers are refusing to pay more despite falling borrowing costs, lower prices and slow construction, all factors that could rationally be expected to spur an increase in house prices in a province with a massive pent-up housing demand.
The benchmark house price for the Greater Toronto Area was $20,000 lower last month than February 2024 and remains $239,900 below the price peak of March, 2022, according to data released by the Canadian Real Estate Association released today.
February starts just 33 per cent of Ford PCs’ target
Despite price declines of the past 35 months, the GTA benchmark house price remains $316,900 (42 per cent) higher than when Doug Ford became premier.
But though market prices are significantly higher than just a few years ago, it appears they now aren’t high enough to cause builders to build.
The Canada Housing and Mortgage Corporation also reported data this morning showing just 4,100 housing starts in Ontario during February, a 37 percent tumble from February 2024. February’s starts were only 33 percent of the 12,500 monthly target needed to meet the Ontario government’s own Housing Affordability Task Force recommendation.
Data on building construction investment released by Statistics Canada today shows that while investment in Ontario multi-unit residential construction is now only seven per cent lower than the peak set in October 2023, investment in single dwelling construction has collapsed 41 percent from its peak in September 2022.
Industry blames Trump, but data signals the problem is the price
 Just how much can be blamed on Trump’s tariffs? The real estate industry’s explanation for market inactivity is the uncertainty caused by Trump’s tariffs, as buyers worry about their incomes or wait for falling economic growth to cause deeper interest rate cuts.
Without a doubt that holds some truth over the past month or two. But not the past year or two.
The simple explanation is that Ontarians, absent the panicked and irrational fear of missing out, refuse to pay prices they cannot afford.
Unreasonable rents continue to leave little room for saving. Purchase prices remain very high.
Other data provides more evidence of a consumer problem. Statistics Canada retail data shows, that despite higher sales elsewhere in the country, Ontario retail sales remain lower than in spring 2022. Ontario’s unemployment is higher than the national rate. GDP data shows spending on items like furniture and home renovations are down.
Of course, conceding that prices are still too high is probably not something the real estate industry wants to say out loud. Deflection is preferred.
Ford’s political opponents failed to make the case
And others want to move on, too. The Ford PC government took action to check housing speculation, allowing the GTA benchmark price to increase $556,800 (76 percent) in just 45 months.
 Building trade unions might be upset if they weren’t so busy counting the tens of millions of dollars they have been receiving from the PC government. The price surge and implosion lie squarely on Doug Ford’s head, as does the economic destruction it caused, which goes beyond housing. Real estate implosions always do.
Unfortunately, it’s a story the opposition parties failed to piece together for Ontarians, allowing the lackluster PCs to coast to an undeserved majority with which they will continue to fail on affordability.
The industry’s refusal to build until prices rise is itself probably costing billions in lost economic growth and tens of thousands of construction jobs. Building trade unions might be upset if they weren’t so busy counting the tens of millions of dollars they have been receiving from the PC government.
The Ontario twist on Keynes’ observation seems to be that industry will remain unproductive until demand turns irrational. Then we go round again.
By Staff
March 18th, 2025
BURLINGTON, ON
We’re so excited to get back to our home of Hamilton, ON for the 3rd edition of THE RALLY. Saturday June 21st, 2025, Arkells take over Hamilton Stadium with support from very special guests Portugal. The Man, Valley and Seago.
Our fan pre-sale is the first crack at tickets: on-sale TOMORROW, Tuesday March 18th at 10 am with pre-sale code HOMETOWN. Get ‘em here:
We also have a limited batch of “cheap seats” for the door crashers. A 4-pack of tix in the upper decks for $100 – party with your pals for 25 bucks each! Grab ‘em before they’re gone with code CHEAPSEATS starting today.
 Xo Max, Mike, Nick, Tim, Anthony  An extra bonus for the die-hards. As an extra bonus for the die-hards that grab early tix, we’ve announced a special win-to-get-in club show this Thursday at the Underground in downtown Hamilton.
Wanna go? We’re selecting 100 fans who have: signed up for the pre-sale, tag us on socials when they get their tix and comment on this post with who they are bringing to The Rally. Be loud! We’ll find ya.
And for those wondering, this is our only show in Southern Ontario this summer. Going big at home – we won’t disappoint. Don’t miss out.
Xo Max, Mike, Nick, Tim, Anthony
By Staff
March 17th, 2025
BURLINGTON, ON
A whirlwind first quarter of 2025 has swept up Canadian politics and tossed it back down in an unrecognizable jumble.
 New data from the non-profit Angus Reid Institute finds the governing Liberal Party – led by newly sworn-in Prime Minister Mark Carney – surging to a five-point vote intention advantage nationally after trailing by 29 points in late December. Were these numbers to hold, with the Liberals at 42 per cent in vote intention, what was a tired, discardable brand just three months ago would be on its way to a fourth term, this time with a majority.
The causes are myriad, with Conservative leader Pierre Poilievre losing two of his biggest targets – Justin Trudeau and the carbon tax – and U.S. President Donald Trump generating a wave of Canadian pride and nationalism with tariff and annexation threats. Over this three-month period Liberal support has jumped 30 points in the city of Toronto, 25 points in 905 ridings.
There are serious caveats, however.
While the party has skyrocketed into majority territory not seen since 2016, much of this vote intention lacks solidity. Half of would-be Liberal voters currently say they’re very committed to this position (49%), 17-points lower than the CPC base (66%).
 That said, Carney enters the job with some key advantages over Poilievre. He is seen as best to handle the ongoing trade war and Trump’s annexation threats by a majority of Canadians, while Poilievre is seen as best by three-in-10. The same proportions say this when considering which leader will capably steward Canada’s economy more broadly.
More bluntly, 41 per cent now view Carney as best suited to be prime minister compared to 29 per cent for Poilievre. At least measurement, with Trudeau sitting in the PM chair, Poilievre led the Liberal leader by 19 points on this question.
More Key Findings:
- The Liberals now hold two key advantages in vote. In Ontario, 47 per cent would support that party while 41 per cent would vote for the CPC. The Liberals are also in first place in Quebec (39%) with a seven-point lead over the Bloc Québécois (32%). Vote intention is tied in B.C. and Manitoba, while the CPC lead has shrunk but is still massive in Alberta and Saskatchewan.
- The CPC leads by eight points among men over 55 years of age and nine points among those 35 to 54. Young men prefer each party at an equal proportion. Women of all ages now offer a significant advantage to the Liberals, recapturing one of the keys to the party’s success under Trudeau.
- Both of Canada’s longer serving federal party leaders continue to face negative public opinion trends. Poilievre is viewed favourably by 35 per cent and unfavourably by 55 per cent (-22); Singh is viewed favourably by 33 per cent and unfavourably by 58 (-25).
- Trudeau leaves with the approval of 47 per cent of Canadians and the disapproval of 49 per cent. Trudeau’s approval jumped 25 points compared to an all-time low of 22 per cent just weeks before he announced his resignation on Jan. 6.
 By Pepper Parr
March 17th, 2025
BURLINGTON, ON
His political life is over.
He may never have to step inside the House of Commons again.
Assuming Prime Minister Carney calls for an election before the 27th of March the House of Commons will not sit again until the results of the election are knowm.
This leaving politics has been a personally painful process for Justin Trudeau.
There was so much hope and promise when he was first elected in 2015. Sunny Ways was the way Trudeau put it at the time.
Last week, Adam Scotti, Justin Trudeau’s personal photographer, released some of the pictures he took while serving as the official photographer.
Last Friday Justin Trudeau met with Governor General Mary Simon and submitted his resignation.
 It was a difficult moment for Justin Trudeau.  The last day in Rideau Cottage Justin Trudeau had to move out of Rideau Cottage and find a new home for himself and his three children.
 Senior Staff are in on the call with President Donald Trump Justin Trudeau met with incoming Prime Minister Mark Carney in the Prime Minister’s House of Commons office.
 Prime Minister Justin Trudeau with Prime Minister-designate Mark Carney. The body language in the picture tells it all. Justin Trudeau seems to favour mementos of the life he has lived. He wanted the House of Commons chair he sat in – he took it home.
 Justin Trudeau taking his chair out of the House of Commons. Who knows if he was allowed to take the chair? Did he have to pay for it?
 By Pepper Parr
March 17th, 2025
BURLINGTON, ON
Are they electable?
In 2015 Karina Gould showed that Burlington can elect a Liberal.
She became the Member of Parliament for the city and went on to become a Cabinet Minister and then took a shot at becoming the Prime Minister.
The number of votes she got from Burlington was less than 200; Gould received just under 4,800 votes nationally – the number of votes from Burlington had to have stunned Gould.
Gould was elected in the riding of Burlington on Sept. 20, 2019, and won 45.7 percent of 69,208 votes cast.
In the federal election that is expected to be announced before the 27th of this month the certainty that was there for Gould in the past isn’t as solid now.
No one knows why Mark Carney did not put her in the Cabinet he named last Friday. One nationally known pundit said he thought it was petty on the part of Carney.
 Andrea Grebenc (straw hat with black trip) campaigning with Karina Gould. Andrea Grebenc was beside Gould during many of the door-to-door campaigns.
Grebenc had been a very successful school board trustee and served exceptionally well when she was chair.
When there was an opportunity to run as a candidate for the Burlington seat in the Legislature – she got tied up in the rules that kept her away from putting together a solid campaign. She lost the nomination. The woman who won Mariam Manaa lost the election.
Grebenc thought she saw an opportunity at the municipal level and ran against Gary Carr for Regional Chair. Grebenc ran into some of the hard realities for women who choose public service to run for public office. She pulled a respectable 20,276 votes (19%)at the Regional level.
No one expected Doug Ford to call the snap election – he did and Grebenc campaigned for the nomination – won that and was thought to be a sure winner. It was described by many as “hers to lose” – and she did just that.
She did say that she would be running again whenever the next election is held.
This leads to the question: Is Andrea Grebenc electable? And can Gould hold her seat?
By Julieta Belen Correa
March 17th, 2025
BURLINGTON, ON
Cryptocurrency is transforming the landscape for small businesses, offering modern solutions to traditional challenges. With reduced transaction fees and the potential to reach a global customer base, digital currencies present significant advantages. Understanding secure methods to buy Bitcoin in Canada is crucial for businesses aiming to leverage this technology effectively.
 In today’s digital age, many small businesses are turning to cryptocurrency to enhance their operations. By embracing digital currencies, these businesses aim to reduce costs and expand their reach in an increasingly competitive market. The adoption of cryptocurrency not only offers financial benefits but also positions businesses at the forefront of technological advancement. As you explore how crypto solutions can enhance business operations, understanding the landscape becomes essential. For those looking to integrate these solutions, knowing how to buy Bitcoin in Canada is a crucial step in the process.
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 Successfully integrated cryptocurrency solutions have allowed tapping into international markets without facing currency exchange hurdles. Implementing cryptocurrency has allowed some businesses to scale rapidly by tapping into international markets without facing currency exchange hurdles. This global reach would have been difficult to achieve with traditional financial systems due to high transaction costs and lengthy processing times. As such, adopting crypto solutions has facilitated smoother cross-border trade and opened up new revenue streams.
The success of these businesses serves as inspiration for others contemplating a similar transition. Their stories highlight the potential growth opportunities available through embracing digital currencies while underscoring the importance of robust planning and risk management strategies.
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Using reputable exchanges can provide peace of mind when purchasing Bitcoin or other cryptocurrencies. These platforms often include comprehensive tutorials and support services that guide users through the buying process step by step. Additionally, integrating wallets that offer secure storage options can protect digital assets from potential cyber threats.
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By Ray Rivers
March 16th, 2025
BURLINGTON, ON
 Rene Lévesque, who later created the Parti Quebecois, was the most influential minister in the Lesage Liberal government during Quebec’s ‘Quiet Revolution’ of the early sixties. Rene Lévesque is credited with the phrase ‘Maîtres chez Nous’ – used as a justification for nationalizing American energy companies which had once dominated Quebec’s energy scene. Lévesque, who later created the Parti Quebecois, was the most influential minister in the Lesage Liberal government during Quebec’s ‘Quiet Revolution’ of the early sixties. And his phase is revered by Quebecers.
Mark Carney, Canada’s new PM, has used the phrase on several occasions, presumably to appeal to Quebec voters, but also to signal that under his watch this country will not be subservient to, and be pushed around by our American neighbours. That Carney is making waves among potential voters can be seen by the reaction from the separatist and oxymoronic Bloc Quebecois federal party, worried about inroads into its Quebec base.
President Trump has made it clear that tariffs are coming and here to stay. And that means Canadians need to look for other markets for their exports. And we also need to focus on import substitution as an alternative to buying from the USA. Today, for example, we import over two billion aluminum beer cans made with Canadian exported aluminum.
 President Trump has made it clear that tariffs are coming and here to stay. Trump used to own a casino or two, so one needs to be wary playing cards with him. Premier Ford embarrassed himself, his province and the country when he tried to bluff without an ace up his sleeve. President Trump was holding the high cards and he called Ford’s hand on his 25% energy surcharge for US states.
Trump threatened to double down on the steel and aluminium tariffs and Ford buckled, folded his hand, and left the table with egg on his face. The surcharge was withdrawn and Ford was taught a lesson. Stay in your lane – international trade blackmail is for the big boys.
Ford may get high marks for scrapping Elon Musk’s ‘Starlink’ internet system, once planned for northern Ontario communities. But what about the $26 billion contract he signed for four the US based GE Hitachi BWRX-300 small modular reactors for Darlington? These reactors, once operational will need to be on a steady diet of imported American enriched nuclear fuel.
Meantime, Atomic Energy Canada now AtkinsRéalis, is dying to sell its new CANDU MONARK, an advanced CANDU reactor design which uses Canadian made uranium pellets. CANDU is the current technology that gives us half of our electricity in Ontario. Of course, we’d likely not need these new nuclear power plants if Ford hadn’t shut down the province’s renewable energy programs.
Ford’s slap down by the US president should inspire prudence as this country responds to the American trade war. Any response to US tariffs will be seen as retaliatory, but whatever that response it needs to be about benefitting Canadians and not just punishing the Yanks. That discussion starts with a withdrawal from the already broken USMCA.
 Former Prime Minister Mulroney sold the economic benefits of the free trade agreement (FTA) to Canadians on a song and a prayer. Former Prime Minister Mulroney sold the economic benefits of the free trade agreement (FTA) to Canadians on a song and a prayer. Canada’s GDP per capita, our national productivity rate – our economic standard of living – compared to the USA was 90% back then, just prior to the FTA. Today it has fallen to 65%, and our exchange rate has tumbled to under 70 cents.
Instead of making us better off, forty years of FTA, NAFTA and USMCA have just made us more reliant on the US as a trading partner. And the real beneficiaries are the transnational corporations that can relocate production from one country to another to take advantage of lower labour cost, less red tape, lower taxes, and tariffs. They are the real winners of free trade.
Canadian productivity has bounced up and down a few times since Mulroney but no matter how one looks at the statistics it is hard to make the argument that these free trade deals have been a win-win for Canadians, even in the good times. And these are not the good times as we head into a trade war led by the would be imperialist living in the White House.
Bottom line is that we’d be no worse and possibly better off if we had ignored Mr. Mulroney’s dream of an FTA. Instead, we should have done what the PM is telling us we need to do now – take control of our economy by becoming more self-reliant. But we will never be ‘Maîtres chez Nous’ so long as we are ‘free-trading’ with the elephant next door.
 Ray Rivers, a Gazette Contributing Editor, writes regularly applying his more than 25 years as a federal bureaucrat to his thinking. Rivers was once a candidate for provincial office in Burlington. He was the founder of the Burlington citizen committee on sustainability at a time when climate warming was a hotly debated subject. Ray has a post graduate degree in economics that he earned at the University of Ottawa. Tweet @rayzrivers
Background links:
GDP/Capita – Maîtres chez nous – Bloc Objects –
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