Editor:

Several letters have appeared in Coast Reporter recently that seem intended to incite hatred. When three appear on the same page, the whole community starts to look ugly. All these letters refer to the woman who dared to once again challenge the bylaws permitting Target Marine to process fish in a residential neighbourhood.

There is no need for me to mention her by name, she is not seeking recognition, she is merely trying to protect herself, and all of us, from the worst effects of industrial expansion.

The authors of these letters need to consider their words carefully.

Ms. Anita Paulin accuses this woman of “constant and uneducated harassing of Target Marine and council” and goes on to suggest a counter lawsuit for harassment. In truth the only person who could be accused of harassment is Ms. Paulin herself.  

Dana Caple Smith believes “the majority rules” and “the voice of the community” has spoken. Bob Darney agrees, referring to “a ridiculous self-important vendetta.”

Do they mean to suggest that our rights and freedoms can be overruled by a local referendum? Remember, this was a referendum influenced by massive advertising. Myths and misinformation, which were widespread prior to the referendum, persist and spawn new ones today — the no-noise myth, the buffered by 60-acres myth, etc. Unlike our council, there was no requirement for voters to have any knowledge of the opposing issues. But remember that our present council stated prior to the election that they supported Target Marine.                          

Stop vilifying this woman. She is a hero, standing up for all our rights to live in peace, safe from invasion by powerful industrial interests.

As for Target Marine, they seem to be doing just fine; you can buy their caviar on-line at $3 per gram.

Rupert Clark

Sechelt