An open letter to MPP Graydon Smith:
Dear Mr. Smith,
My name is Michael Barnes, and I live in Bracebridge. I voted for you and supported Doug Ford in the last election because I believed you would stand up for the people in our community.
That is why I’m writing this letter.
I have to say I am extremely disappointed with the way the OPSEU strike has been handled. These workers spend every day helping some of the most vulnerable people in our communities. They work with people struggling with mental health, addictions, developmental disabilities, and so many others who need support. They don’t do this work because it’s easy or because it pays well. They do it because they genuinely care.
Watching the strike over the past several weeks, I honestly can’t understand why they have received so little acknowledgment from our government. As our local MPP, I expected to see you meet with them, listen to their concerns, or at the very least recognize the important work they do. Instead, it feels like they have simply been ignored.
When they shut down Front Street in Bracebridge, that should have sent a message that these workers are frustrated and feel like no one is listening. Whether someone agrees with every part of the strike or not, these are hardworking people who deserve respect.
I voted for you because I believed you would represent all of us. Right now, I don’t feel that has happened. Unless I see a real effort from you to acknowledge these workers and support a fair resolution, I can’t see myself voting for you or the Progressive Conservative Party again.
I’m not writing this because I’m angry. I’m writing because I’m disappointed. I expected better from someone I voted for.
I am asking you to meet with the striking workers, publicly acknowledge the important work they do, and advocate within your government for a fair resolution.
I hope you’ll take the time to meet with these workers, hear what they have to say, and remember the incredible work they do every day for the people who need them most.
Thank you for your time.
Sincerely,
Michael Barnes
Bracebridge, Ontario
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Excellent letter! I think we should all be disappointed ..and even angry…in the way these people have been treated.
I would not consider supporting Graydon Smith or Doug Ford in the next election. They are all about whitewashing and avoiding the issues that really matter.