Toronto Star
Caledonia, Ont. standoff costing $55M: John Tory
Updated Wed. Sep. 27 2006 7:54 AM ET
Canadian Press
TORONTO -- Conservative Leader John Tory said Tuesday the ongoing aboriginal occupation in Caledonia, Ont. has cost taxpayers at least $55 million.
Tory put the figure to Premier Dalton McGuinty in the Ontario legislature, asking him to give a final tally on the cost of the occupation in the town just outside of Hamilton.
Tory didn't provide itemized proof of how he arrived at the $55-million figure but said it takes into account policing costs, the salary of negotiator Jane Stewart and assistance to local businesses.
"I would expect as the chief trustee of taxpayers' money, you would be able to give us some estimate as to how much has been spent on that matter so far,'' Tory said.
McGuinty didn't respond with a total figure, saying the province is intent on reaching an agreement with Six Nations protesters at the negotiating table.
He said he's proud of how his government has handled the standoff, which started in February and has been marred by violent clashes between town residents and aboriginals.
McGuinty wouldn't repeat previous comments where he said it would be "unacceptable'' for the occupation to drag on through the winter but says the government will remain at the negotiating table for "as long as it takes.''
"This particular issue predates Confederation,'' McGuinty said. "It is complex. It is fraught with challenges.''
Tory said the province should exact an agreement from Six Nations protesters, holding them to a "minimum standard of behaviour'' as long as they remain on the land.
Six Nations protesters say they will stay on the site _ bought by the province and being held in trust _ until it is returned to them.
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