LETTER

Municipal political parties? Readers speak out

 

Independent councillors = grassroots democracy

1. The original publisher and editor of the Bulletin d’Aylmer, Fred Ryan, established a policy that it will not publish partisan political documents under the guise of letters to the editor; however, it will comment on issues, while not favouring nor discriminating against any candidate. This letter is intended not to stray from this policy.

Electors of Gatineau have to decide which candidate is best suited to the needs of each ward.

In making your choice, give consideration to the candidate who represents the “independent councillor”. Gatineau council has moved in the opposite direction with political parties (one).

Councillors are elected to advocate their ward’s interests, while pursuing the interests of the city as a whole. Electing councillors not attached to a political party ensures that voters are rewarded with the most effective representation for their ward.

It is important to remember that independent councillors are the last bastions of grassroots democracy in our municipal system.

Elmer Guertin
Gatineau / Aylmer

2. Thank you to Robert L. Thompsett for reminding us that we do not need a “team candidate” representing us on the next city council.

A team member will support the team’s agenda rather than promote the well-being of the residents of (each) sector. We need someone to champion our causes and needs - not someone who will continue to ignore our area.

There are several independent candidates. Let’s hope one of them will do a better job looking after our welfare.

Judy Smith
Ward 1