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Vfc= ' ! ■: Features and Comments, Wednesday, April 20,1994 The Canadian Statesman, Bowmanville 3 Letters to the Editor M.P.P. Mills Tries to Defend Preferences in Job Hirings Dear Editor: Last week, I received in my mail an invitation to enrol in a course about how to deal with difficult people. people. The fee for this course is $99 and it may well be money wisely spent if I have to continue to cope with my friend Rick James and his weekly column - "Thoughts Unlimited". Rick should know by now that I don't fade away or give up easily, on anything and that includes his view, that the equity agenda in place is somehow something not required, since a recent Gallup poll suggests his view is the right one. Let's retrace what I said last week, before I move on to other comments. comments. Equality for women, race relations relations policies, affirmative action, employment employment equity, bilingualism, aboriginal and disabled rights, are not as Rick would have you believe, some pursuit ôf an NDP ideology. All of these goals were entrenched in the Constitution in the form of the Charter of Rights and Freedoms in 1982. Both the federal and provincial governments are tasked with the implementation implementation of these objectives. Neither Neither level of government can decide not to move forward in achieving the goals put forward in the Charter of Rights, because a Gallup poll suggests suggests that people are not in favour with the objective of the goals. Last week, I also had a chat with Minister Elaine Ziemba and with Minister Brian Charlton, over the wording contained in government job want ads. Rick complained that all the job advertisements should say that everyone is encouraged to apply, instead of the present wording which states that women, the disabled, visible visible minorities and aboriginals are encouraged encouraged to apply. Both Ministers told me, that perhaps as hard as it may be for Rick to agree, the fact is that the people who are encouraged to apply are the very people who do not apply, because they believe they haven't a chance of success. So in order to hopefully achieve some kind of equity in the government government workforce, they have had to resort resort to the type of wording they use in the job ads. They both told me that there wasn't ever any shortage of applications coming from the other categories. And that is true today. Since Rick has a bee-in-his- bonnet over a policy to make access to employment equal for everyone, I want to tell him about The Public Service Act, 1947. This Act was introduced introduced by the Conservatives in 1947. Under the heading "Preference to Veterans," it says that applications for the civil service, for any position, shall give preference to those who were honourably discharged or retired retired from active service in His Majesty's Majesty's forces in respect of the War of 1914 to 1918 or the War of 1939 to 1945. The current regulation, #977 of the Public Service Act, was amended in 1980 to include those who had served in the Korean War, 1950- 1953. When Rick complains about the exclusion of white males in today's government job market, a fact that I know isn't true, it might be wise for him to consider that a level of preference preference has existed in the Public Service from 1947, and even continues until today. And Rick, before you create a wrinkle into what I have said, I want to make it clear that I support preference preference for those who have served our country. But you said, not I, that job opportunities in the civil service must be truly fair, and access must be equal for everyone. Sincerely, Gordon L. Mills M.PJ 3 . Durham East Federal Politics Reader Critical of M.P.P.'s Condemnation of Policies To the Editor: Mr. Mills sounded almost apoplectic apoplectic in his condemnation of the Federal government in the non payment payment of OHIP coverage for refugee claimants and also the inaction of the Liberal MP's from Ontario (Ref: Report Report from Queen's Park, April 6th). This situation is unfair to be sure and it should be redressed but I suspect that Mr. Mills' motives are more political political than anything else. As the provincial provincial election approaches, the NDP party strategy will be to blame the Feds for all Ontario's problems, hoping hoping that the electorate will have for gotten the NDP record. Since Ontario's contribution to the Federal finances amounts to over 40% of the federal income, even if they repaid the full $38 million we would actually end up with about $20 million (since the federal government will need to raise that money from somewhere and 40% of that will come from Ontario). Considering the $10 billion deficit run up by the NDP government for each of the last three years, $20 million is, shall we say, a drop in the bucket. Besides, even if we don't get it back, it is for a good cause. C.Christodoulou R.J.'s Note - Gord, by using the information about job preferences for war veterans, I assume you are trying to repair the damage caused by your government's decision to eliminate court clerks over the age of 65, some of whom were WWII vets. Sorry, you're about three weeks too late. As for dealing with difficult people, people, I've always admired people who excel at this by diffusing a problem through a calm, common sense approach. approach. Unfortunately, your government government has demonstrated repeatedly that it is sadly lacking in this quality. Finally, if you re-read the final line of your letter, surely you meant something else when you wrote, "But, you said, not I, that job opportunities opportunities in the civil service must be truly fair, and access must be equal for everyone." I'd be interested to know if I've taken that single line out of context, or if that is an indication of how you truly feel hiring policies should be written in Ontario. Sincerely, Rick James On Friday night, April 22, former MP Ross Stevenson will be at the Newtonville Community Hall as a guest speaker of the local Progressive Progressive Conservative Association. It is good to know that just because because the Liberal Party and the Reform Reform Party blasted their way through the P.C. members last October, October, the former MP is still active. While many people I know did not vote Tory the last time around, quite a few actually did. Those who voted Tory did so because because they just couldn't bear to vote for Preston, or Audrey or Chretien. I can understand that. It was interesting to see the lengthy story on Jean Charest in last week's Maclean's magazine. Charest, as one of the two P.C. members in government, must see that a come-back for the party on a federal level is conducted carefully over the next several years. Having witnessed the crushing defeat of the P.C.'s in New Brunswick Brunswick in October 1987,1 know how long it takes a provincial party to regain regain its feet. In fact, in New Brunswick, the Progressive Conservatives are still working on regaining the numbers they once had supporting them. They lost many top-level supporters to the Confederation of Regions Party, Party, CoR for short. The , Liberals, under Frank McKenna, blew the P.C.'s, under Richard Hatfield to kingdom come. Frankie's Liberals swept the entire 58 seats in the legislature. The interview with Charest reveals reveals that there are no more $200- per-plate dinners. He goes to $20- per-plate outings. The Conservative party, after the election, was left with a heck of a debt, and those left holding the de posit bag are scrambling. In New Brunswick, the party leader stepped down and a female leader stepped into his shoes. She, unfortunately only lasted a couple of years. While her name is on the tip of my tongue, I can't recall it. As for the new leader, he is someone from Moncton. (Talk about out of touch!) Charest has a real tough job on his hands. Fortunately, he has with him Elsie Wayne, the only other P.C. MP. Given her background, as the former former mayor of Saint John, New Brunswick, you can be assured of her ability to take something and turn it into the best. She turned Saint John around and had it declared, "The biggest little city in the East." During her tenure, the Canada Games went to Saint John, the city rebuilt its down town core, and many plans were laid for future endeavors. endeavors. Charest had better rely on her. Her wit and appeal will surely conquer conquer a lot of people. Sure she is loud but she knows her politics. She knows what she can do, and when she sets out to do something -- Watch out! Municipal Politics Congratulations to the new Ward Two Regional Councillor, Carson Elliott. In the 1991 municipal election, when Clarington was still Newcastle, Newcastle, Carson received 1,510 of the votes for the Bowmanville Ward, which is also known as Ward Two. Next in line was John Vangin- hoven with 1,096. Of course, Ken Hooper had the most votes - at 2,018 - to send him back to his regional regional council seat. by Rick James Ontario Junior Citizens are Just Plain Good Kids One of the most popular, or unpopular, topics of conversation I hear these days surrounds surrounds the increasing problem of young hoodlums, gangs, punks, and vandals that seem to be taking over neighborhood streets. I have noticed it as well, and it concerns me that large numbers of young teenagers are roaming the streets at 3 and 4 a.m. It also concerns me that 10-year-olds are smashing parking meters to steal change for cigarettes. Most of all, it's frightening to realize that there's little law enforcers can do to reprimand reprimand them. Although this is a topic that deserves attention, the purpose of this column is not to talk about the irresponsible actions of a few, but rather the outstanding contribution many young people can make to our communities. communities. Namely, those youths who are selected as Ontario Junior Citizens. I attended our provincial newspaper association's association's annual meeting recently where the Lieutenant Governor of Ontario, Henry Jackman presented 11 awards to Junior Citizens. Recipients of the award ranged in age from nine to 18 and have been involved in worthwhile community services, have overcome disabling physical or psychological psychological limitations, or have performed acts of heroism, perhaps endangering their own lives. Award recipients are also honored for just being "good kids" who show a commitment to making life better for others and do more than is normally expected of someone their age. For example... Christina Dudman, 13, of Tiverton, for her exceptional courage after a horrific car crash. Despite suffering a broken ankle and nose, she overcame her fear and pain to pull her grandparents and uncle from the burning vehicle. Her composure and quick thinking saved her family's lives. David Clark, 12, of Lambeth, for his positive and cheerful attitude while dealing with cystinosis. His emotional strength allows him to educate and encourage other children. He generously volunteers his time as Poster Boy for the Kidney Foundation, helping to raise funds and awareness. Colin Linton, 12, of Gloucester, for his bravery and willingness to become involved. When an apparently unstable woman abducted a small child from his mother, he was able to restrain the kidnapper until police arrived. His prompt actions prevented a potential tragedy. Jennifer Long, 11, of Stoney Creek, for her outstanding community involvement. Her tireless efforts to help those less fortu nate than herself have resulted in pulling together her peers and neighbors for a common common cause. The support she gives to her local food bank exemplifies community spirit. Samantha Holmes, 16, of Mississauga, for her determination and commitment to a worthy cause. She waged a successful campaign campaign to have women's hockey recognized as an Olympic sport, proving that dreams can be fulfilled. She also contributes to her community by volunteering at the local hospital. Vanessa D'Souza, 17, of Etobicoke, for her admirable community service. As a volunteer volunteer at her local hospital, the care and concern concern she shows is boundless. She also makes time to serve as an agent for the Royal Commission for Learning, the Red Cross and other organizations. Anita McElligott, 15, of Wallaceburg, for the grace and dignity with which she has overcome leukemia. She provides counsel and reassurance to other young cancer patients, thus lessening their fears. Her courage courage and optimism has proven that the odds can be beaten. Jeff Preston, 10, of Port Elgin, for his ncvcr-givc-up spirit that says anything can be accomplished through hard work and determination. As Muscular Dystrophy Poster Child and campaign assistant, he raises research funds and public awareness. awareness. He is an inspiration to everyone. Greg Reilly, 17, of Downsview, for his generosity towards others. His energetic fund-raising efforts have benefitted world relief programs, children's hospitals, local food banks, refugee families and many others. Gordon Simpson, 9, of Mississauga, for his sense of humor and self confidence in dealing with Alopecia Areata, a hair-loss condition. His unique maturity and sensitivity sensitivity enable him to act as an "ambassador" to educate and support others. Lt. Gov. Henry Jackman congratulated the recipients by saying that, "they have demonstrated an exceptional capacity for accomplishment early in their lives." He went on to say, "These distinguished young Canadians are models to inspire anyone who has the will and ambition to succeed." The awards presentation is always a very emotional event, with even the toughest journalists swelling up with tears. It's just unfortunate those teenagers roaming the streets at 3 a.m., or the 10-year- old vandals who smash parking meters, could not attend to realize the potential they're wasting.