- by Kaitlyn Neath

What would you be willing to give up for $25 000 000?

That's a lot of zeros, right?

How about your right to freedom of expression?

Freedom of religion?

Would you be okay with letting go of your right to equality and to equal protection of the law without discrimination because of race, national or ethnic origin, colour, religion, age or sex?

For twenty-five million dollars, would you give up your legal rights to liberty and freedom from search and seizures and cruel and unusual punishment?

Ontario Conservatives like Doug Ford and our MPP, Bill Walker, justify the use of Section 33, (the Notwithstanding Clause,) to save taxpayer's money, quickly.

But here's the 25-million-dollar problem; the Notwithstanding Clause, when implemented, effectively erases sections of our Charter of Rights and Freedoms. Enacting section 33 to save a "quick buck," sets a dangerous precedent for future usage.

By invoking the Notwithstanding Clause, our government is saying that our right to freedom of expression has a price. According to Bill Walker, the price is $25 000 000. Looking at other cuts this government has already made, it is doubtful this money will be used for housing, education, or healthcare, as Mr. Walker would have us believe.

If you are a resident of Bruce/Grey Owen Sound, please let Bill Walker know that his constituents are not all complacent in the temporary erasure of sections of the charter of rights and freedoms.

On Wednesday, September 19 at noon, we will gather in peaceful protest outside of our MPP's office. If you are unable to attend, please write to Bill, share this post and our event page.

Our voices should be heard.