For immediate release:
August 15, 2007

Barrett and Tory continue their call – “ONE LAW FOR ALL!”

Brantford: “There is one law for everyone – no one is beneath the law, no one is above the law and no one is beyond the law.”

That was the sentiment of Ontario Opposition Leader John Tory and
Haldimand-Norfolk-Brant MPP Toby Barrett in Brantford today as they addressed the ongoing Caledonia occupation during a Brant PC luncheon.

“The rule of law is of particular interest along the Grand River – in light of the ongoing Caledonia issues, illegal land seizures, the illegal tobacco trade, people question whether we are all governed by the same set of laws,” stated Barrett. “Upholding the rule of law means working to ensure that all people – in all areas – feel secure that they are protected.  To me it is unacceptable for lawlessness to be an accepted fact in any community.”

 “Today in Ontario, we do not have one law for all and this must change,” said Tory. “Nobody gets to opt-out. Nobody gets to live beyond the law’s reach and protection. All of this is possible only if the rules of the game are consistent, stable, equitable and fair.”

Tory further reiterated that his “one law for all” policy is focused on three principles.

·       No one is beneath the law
·       We will do more to protect vulnerable people in our society and guarantee that they have equitable access to justice.

·       No one is above the law
·       Whether involved in a political protest, a labour dispute or any other issue, there must remain only one rule of law for all. Nobody gets to ‘opt out’ or act as if the rules do not apply to them.

·       No one is beyond the law
·       We will empower our police services, and give them the manpower and tools they need to fight organized crime and gang culture.

Barrett echoed Mr.Tory’s assertion that Dalton McGuinty’s lack of commitment to one law for all has led to 534 days of tension in nearby Caledonia and set a dangerous precedent for all communities in Ontario by sending a message that potential protests will be allowed to endanger public safety and threaten economic development.

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For more information, please contact MPP Toby Barrett at: (519) 428-0446 or
1-800-903-8629