Hello, Toby here.
As MPP, I strive to be present when my constituents gather to discuss important issues. That being said, safety is my top priority – period.

You would be aware of the proposed march in Caledonia on October 15th. I have been contacted by the organizers and the media and have indicated that whether I speak or not is dependent on one pre-condition. I will only speak to the gathering if the OPP and the McGuinty government ensure the safety of the people. If I feel the McGuinty government has failed to ensure the safety of the people assembled in Caledonia, I will not speak. I clearly feel marching through Douglas Creek Estates is a non-starter – in my view, DCE is not safe.

The McGuinty government has declared that it will keep the event safe. In a recent Toronto Star article, we read:

The provincial government doesn't have any plans to either sanction or stop the rally. Anne-Marie Flanagan, spokeswoman for Aboriginal Affairs Minister David Ramsay, said the government won't ``speculate about an event which may or may not occur."

"We'll monitor and take appropriate action to make sure people are safe…"

In a recent Toronto Sun article, we read that “Attorney General Michael Bryant said his ministry wasn't seeking an injunction, saying the government is focusing on negotiations.”

Over the past 7 months, we’ve seen the situation escalate and de-escalate, but today the situation is no better than it was on February 28. As we know, negotiations take years to conclude – but nobody wants to see the occupation continue for years in its current form. All sides barely got through 7 months – to continue for 7 years or 11 years is dangerous.

Again, the Progressive Conservative Caucus continues to support a quick and peaceful resolution to this ongoing occupation and a restoration of normalcy to life in the Caledonia area; however, the safety of all parties must be ensured and all parties must respect the rule of law.

Please continue to stay in touch.

Thanks for your time,
~Toby